Electrical connection unit
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- YAZAKI CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-07
Smart Images
Figure 2026112650000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electrical connection unit.
Background Art
[0002] As one of in-vehicle devices, an electrical connection unit including electronic components and a bus bar connected to the electronic components is used.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] With the increase in the current of the electrical connection unit, it is desired to easily measure the temperature of the terminals of the electronic components.
[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of easily measuring the terminal temperature of an electronic component.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes an electronic component having terminals, a bus bar electrically connected to the terminals, a metal component disposed between the terminals and the bus bar, contacting the terminals, and electrically connected to both the terminals and the bus bar, and a temperature detection unit housed in a hole provided in the metal component and capable of detecting the temperature of the metal component.
Effects of the Invention
[0007] According to one embodiment, the terminal temperature of an electronic component can be easily measured.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0008] [Figure 1] A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1. [Figure 3] A perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the electrical connection unit 1. [Figure 4] Plan view showing the first electronic component and metal component. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view showing the first electronic component and metal component. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1. [Figure 8] A cross-sectional view illustrating the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view showing a metal part of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] A cross-sectional view showing a metal part of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] A cross-sectional view showing a metal part of the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0009] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar function will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Duplication of these components may be omitted. 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. “Parallel,” “orthogonal,” or “same” may include cases where they are “approximately parallel,” “approximately orthogonal,” or “approximately the same,” respectively.
[0010] In the present disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is the direction from the first electronic component 20 to be described later toward the first metal component 60 (see FIG. 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 are simply referred to as the "X direction". The +Y direction is the direction from the first terminal portion 23A to the second terminal portion 23B of the first electronic component 20 (see FIG. 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 are simply referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction is the direction from the base member 11 to be described later toward the bus bar 40 (see FIG. 1). The -Z direction is the direction opposite to the +Z direction. Hereinafter, when the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the "Z direction".
[0011] (First Embodiment) First, the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "direction intersecting the first direction".
[0012] <A1. 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 used in a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), for example. The electrical connection unit 1 is a component called an electrical connection box or a junction box, for example.
[0013] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 1. The electrical connection unit 1 includes, for example, a housing 10, a plurality of electronic components 20, 30, a plurality of bus bars 40 (only one is shown in FIG. 1), a plurality of metal components 60, 70, and a temperature detection unit 80.
[0014] <A1.1 Housing> The housing 10 is an outer shell member that forms the outer shape of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 10 houses a plurality of electronic components 20, 30, a plurality of bus bars 40, and a plurality of metal components 60, 70. The housing 10 has, for example, a base member 11 and a cover member 12.
[0015] The base member 11 is, for example, a member that forms the bottom of the housing 10. The base member 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base member 11 has a support surface 11a exposed inside the housing 10. At least a part of the support surface 11a has a plane 11s extending in the X direction and the Y direction.
[0016] In the base member 11 of the present embodiment, a plurality of fastening members 51 (for example, screws) are fixed. The fastening members 51 are fixed to the base member 11 by insert molding in the base member 11. The head of the fastening member 51 is embedded in the base member 11. The shaft portion of the fastening member 51 projects from the plane 11s of the base member 11 in the +Z direction and extends in the +Z direction. The shaft portion of the fastening member 51 has a helical thread. Note that the fastening members 51 may be fixed to the base member 11 by means different from insert molding.
[0017] The cover member 12 is, for example, a member that forms the lid portion of the housing 10. In the present embodiment, the housing 10 is formed by combining the base member 11 and the cover member 12. The cover member 12 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The bus bar 40 may be fixed to the cover member 12 instead of the base member 11.
[0018] <A1.2 Electronic Component> The plurality of electronic components 20 and 30 are electronic components mounted according to the functions or applications required for the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic components 20 and 30 are, for example, connectors, fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), capacitors, branching components, electronic control units, or electronic component units formed by unitizing two or more of these. Note that the types of the electronic components 20 and 30 are not limited to the above examples. The electronic component 20 and the electronic component 30 may be of the same type or different types. The electronic components 20 and 30 are, for example, heat-generating components that generate heat when energized.
[0019] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the electronic component 20 may be referred to as the "first electronic component 20" in some cases. Also, the electronic component 30 may be referred to as the "second electronic component 30" in some cases. Note that, instead of having a plurality of electronic components 20 and 30, the electrical connection unit 1 may have only one electronic component (e.g., only one of the electronic components 20 and 30).
[0020] <A1.2.1 First Electronic Component> The first electronic component 20 has, for example, a case 21, a main body part 22, a plurality of terminal parts 23 (see FIG. 3), and a plurality of mounting parts 24 (see FIG. 4).
[0021] (Case) The case 21 is an outer member that forms most of the outer shape of the first electronic component 20. The case 21 is, for example, made of synthetic resin and has insulation properties. The case 21 houses the main body part 22. Note that the case 21 and the main body part 22 may be integrally formed.
[0022] (Main Body Part) The main body part 22 is a part that performs the main function of the first electronic component 20. For example, when the first electronic component 20 is a relay, the main body part 22 includes a switching part (e.g., a contact part) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, when the first electronic component 20 is a fuse, the main body part 22 includes a fusing part that is blown when an overcurrent flows. For example, when the first electronic component 20 is a capacitor, the main body part 22 includes a part that accumulates electric charge.
[0023] (terminal part) The terminal portion 23 is an electrical connection portion exposed to the outside of the case 21. The terminal portion 23 is electrically connected to the main body portion 22 inside the case 21. In this embodiment, the first electronic component 20 includes a first terminal portion 23A and a second terminal portion 23B as a plurality of terminal portions 23 (see Figure 3). The first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B are positioned away from the support surface 11a of the base member 11 in the +Z direction.
[0024] In this embodiment, the first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B are provided at the +X-direction end of the first electronic component 20. The first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B are arranged side by side in the Y-direction (see Figure 3). Hereinafter, when the first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "terminal portion 23". The terminal portion 23 has a mounting hole 23h into which a first fastening member 81 (e.g., a screw), which will be described later, is attached. The mounting hole 23h opens in the X-direction. For example, the mounting hole 23h has a screw groove on its inner circumferential surface.
[0025] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 24 is a part for fixing the first electronic component 20. For example, the mounting portion 24 is a part for fixing the first electronic component 20 to the base member 11. In this embodiment, the first electronic component 20 includes a first mounting portion 24A and a second mounting portion 24B as a plurality of mounting portions 24 (see Figure 4). The first mounting portion 24A and the second mounting portion 24B are arranged separately on both sides of the case 21 in the Y direction. For example, the first mounting portion 24A protrudes from the case 21 in the -Y direction. The second mounting portion 24B protrudes from the case 21 in the +Y direction.
[0026] Hereinafter, when the first attachment portion 24A and the second attachment portion 24B are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as "attachment portion 24". The attachment portion 24 has an attachment hole 24h to which a fastening member 29 (for example, a screw) is attached. The attachment hole 24h is open in the Z direction. The attachment hole 24h is an insertion hole through which the fastening member 29 is passed. In the present embodiment, the base member 11 has an attachment hole 11h at a position corresponding to the attachment hole 24h. The attachment hole 11h is open in the Z direction. For example, the attachment hole 11h has a screw groove on its inner peripheral surface. In the present embodiment, the first electronic component 20 is fixed to the base member 11 by the fastening member 29 passed through the attachment hole 24h of the attachment portion 24 engaging with the attachment hole 11h. Note that the attachment hole 11h may be a directly provided attachment hole in the base member 11, or may be an attachment hole of an engagement member (for example, a nut) embedded in the base member 11 by insert molding or other means.
[0027] <A1.2.2 Second Electronic Component> The second electronic component 30 has, for example, a case 31, a main body portion 32, a plurality of terminal portions 33, and a plurality of attachment portions 34. Note that the details of the second electronic component 30 are the same as those of the first electronic component 20, for example. Therefore, for the description of the second electronic component 30, in the description of the first electronic component 20 described above, "first electronic component 20", "case 21", "main body portion 22", "terminal portion 23", "attachment hole 23h", "attachment portion 24", "attachment hole 24h", "fastening member 29", and "+X direction" may be read as "second electronic component 30", "case 31", "main body portion 32", "terminal portion 33", "attachment hole 33h", "attachment portion 34", "attachment hole 34h", "fastening member 39", and "-X direction", respectively.
[0028] <A1.3 Bus Bar> The bus bar 40 is a wiring material included in the electrical connection unit 1. The bus bar 40 is, for example, a wiring material that electrically connects a plurality of electronic components. Instead of this, the bus bar 40 may be a wiring material that connects one electronic component to the outside of the electrical connection unit 1.
[0029] The busbar 40 is plate-shaped in at least part of its form. In this embodiment, the busbar 40 is plate-shaped throughout its entire length. The busbar 40 is arranged along the base member 11. The busbar 40 has a planar plate surface 40s. The plate surface 40s of the busbar 40 is parallel to the plane 11s of the base member 11 along the entire length of the busbar 40. The busbar 40 is fixed to the base member 11, for example. The busbar 40 has a plate thickness T3. The plate thickness T3 is the thickness of the busbar 40 in the Z direction.
[0030] Here, we will focus on a busbar 40 that electrically connects a first electronic component 20 and a second electronic component 30, and describe in detail an example of a busbar 40. The busbar 40 has, for example, a first connection portion 41, a second connection portion 42, and an extension portion 43. In this embodiment, each of the first connection portion 41, the second connection portion 42, and the extension portion 43 is plate-shaped and oriented along the X and Y directions.
[0031] (First connection section) The first connection portion 41 is the part that is electrically connected to the first electronic component 20. The first connection portion 41 is provided at one end of the busbar 40. The first connection portion 41 has a mounting hole 41h through which a second fastening member 82 (e.g., a screw) passes. The mounting hole 41h opens in the Z direction. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 41 is located away from the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20. For example, the first connection portion 41 is located along the base member 11.
[0032] (Second connection point) The second connection portion 42 is the part that is electrically connected to the second electronic component 30. The second connection portion 42 is provided at the other end of the busbar 40. The second connection portion 42 has a mounting hole 42h through which a fastening member 92 (e.g., a screw) passes. The mounting hole 42h opens in the Z direction. In this embodiment, the second connection portion 42 is located away from the terminal portion 33 of the second electronic component 30. For example, the second connection portion 42 is located along the base member 11.
[0033] (extension part) The extension part 43 is provided between the first connection part 41 and the second connection part 42. The extension part 43 extends in the X direction along, for example, the base member 11, and connects the first connection part 41 and the second connection part 42. In the present embodiment, the extension part 43 has a mounting hole 43h through which the fastening member 51 passes. The bus bar 40 is placed on the plane 11s of the base member 11 with the shaft part of the fastening member 51 passed through the mounting hole 43h. Then, with the shaft part of the fastening member 51 passed through the mounting hole 43h, an engaging member 52 (for example, a nut) is attached to the shaft part of the fastening member 51 from the +Z direction side, whereby the bus bar 40 is fixed to the base member 11.
[0034] <A1.4 Metal part> The metal part 60 is arranged between the first connection part 41 and the terminal part 23. The metal part 60 contacts the terminal part 23. The metal part 60 is electrically connected to both the terminal part 23 and the bus bar 40. Similarly, the metal part 70 is arranged between the second connection part 42 and the terminal part 33. The metal part 70 contacts the terminal part 33. The metal part 70 is electrically connected to both the terminal part 33 and the bus bar 40. The metal part 60 is made of metal (for example, made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy).
[0035] The metal parts 60 and 70 of the present embodiment are heat storage members that increase the heat capacity of the current path of the electrical connection unit 1. The metal parts 60 and 70 store (absorb heat) at least part of the heat generated by the electronic parts 20 and 30, for example. The plurality of metal parts 60 and 70 may store (absorb heat) at least part of the heat generated by the bus bar 40 due to energization. Each of the metal parts 60 and 70 may be referred to as a "heat storage part" or a "heat absorption part".
[0036] In the present embodiment, the metal part 60 has a hole part 60h that houses the temperature detection part 80. The metal part 70 has a hole part 70h that houses the temperature detection part 80.
[0037] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the metal component 60 may be referred to as the "first metal component 60". Also, the metal component 70 may be referred to as the "second metal component 70". Note that the electrical connection unit 1 may have only one metal component (for example, only one of the metal components 60 and 70) instead of having a plurality of metal components 60 and 70.
[0038] <A1.4.1 First Metal Component> The first metal component 60 is disposed between the first electronic component 20 and the bus bar 40. In the present disclosure, the phrase "a metal component is disposed between an electronic component and a bus bar" is not limited to the case where a part of the metal component is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed in the X direction or the Y direction. The phrase "a metal component is disposed between an electronic component and a bus bar" may also apply to the case where a part of the metal component is located between the electronic component and the bus bar when viewed in a direction inclined with respect to the X direction or the Y direction.
[0039] The first metal component 60 electrically connects the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 and the first connection portion 41 of the bus bar 40. The first metal component 60 has, for example, a first portion 61 and a second portion 62.
[0040] (First Portion) The first portion 61 is a portion connected to the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20. The first portion 61 is a relatively thick plate portion extending in the Y direction and the Z direction. The first portion 61 extends in the Z direction along the end portion on the +X direction side of the first electronic component 20. The first portion 61 is in a posture standing up with respect to the support surface 11a (for example, the flat surface 11s) of the base member 11.
[0041] The first portion 61 is adjacent to the first electronic component 20 in the X direction. For example, the first portion 61 is adjacent to at least a part of the main body portion 22 of the first electronic component 20 in the X direction. The first portion 61 faces the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 from the +X direction side. The first portion 61 is connected to the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 from the X direction.
[0042] In this embodiment, the first portion 61 has a first mounting hole 61h through which a first fastening member 81 (e.g., a screw) passes. The first mounting hole 61h opens in the X direction. The first portion 61 also has a recess 65 on the +X direction side of the first mounting hole 61h. The recess 65 is a accommodating portion that houses the head of the first fastening member 81 inserted into the first mounting hole 61h. The first portion 61 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 by the engagement of the first fastening member 81, which has been passed through the first mounting hole 61h, with the mounting hole 23h of the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20.
[0043] In this embodiment, the first portion 61 has a hole 60h capable of housing the temperature detection unit 80. The hole 60h has an opening on the face of the first portion 61 facing the +Z direction. The hole 60h is recessed in the -Z direction from the face of the first portion 61 facing the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the hole 60h forms a columnar space extending in the Z direction.
[0044] (Second part) The second portion 62 is the portion that connects to the first connector 41 of the busbar 40. The second portion 62 protrudes in the +X direction from the -Z direction end of the first portion 61. The second portion 62 is a plate portion that extends in the X and Y directions. The second portion 62 extends in the X direction along the first connector 41 of the busbar 40. In this embodiment, the first portion 61 and the second portion 62 form an L-shaped single piece first metal component 60.
[0045] The second portion 62 is adjacent to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 in the Z direction. The first portion 61 faces the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from the +Z direction side. The second portion 62 is connected to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from the Z direction.
[0046] In this embodiment, the second portion 62 has a second mounting hole 62h through which a second fastening member 82 (e.g., a screw) passes. The second mounting hole 62h opens in the Z direction. The second portion 62 is physically and electrically connected to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 by the second fastening member 82, which is passed through the second mounting hole 62h, engaging with the mounting hole 41h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40.
[0047] (Shape of the first metal part) In this embodiment, the thickness of at least a portion of the first metal part 60 is greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar 40. For example, the thickness T1 in the X direction of at least a portion of the first metal part 60 is greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar 40. In this embodiment, the thickness T1 in the X direction of the first portion 61 of the first metal part 60 is greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar 40. In this embodiment, the first portion 61 has a thickness T1 in the X direction that is greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar 40, across its entire width in the Z direction. In another view, the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 62 of the first metal part 60 may be greater than the thickness T3 of the busbar 40.
[0048] In this embodiment, the thickness T1 in the X direction of the first portion 61 of the first metal part 60 is greater than the thickness T2 in the Z direction of the second portion 62 of the first metal part 60. In this embodiment, the first portion 61 has a thickness T1 that is greater than the thickness T2 of the second portion 62 across its entire width in the Z direction.
[0049] In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the first electronic component 20 is the X direction. The width WA2 of the first metal component 60 in the X direction is, for example, smaller than the width WA1 of the first electronic component 20 in the X direction. If the longitudinal direction of the first electronic component 20 is the Y direction, then the width of the first metal component 60 in the Y direction is, for example, smaller than the width of the first electronic component 20 in the Y direction.
[0050] The first metal component 60 has a larger heat capacity per unit length compared to the busbar 40. Due to this large heat capacity, even when a large current flows through the first electronic component 20 for a short period and the first electronic component 20 generates heat, some of the heat generated by the first electronic component 20 is stored by the metal component 60. Therefore, temperature changes inside the electrical connection unit 1 can be suppressed.
[0051] (Example of arrangement of the first metal component) Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an exploded view of a part of the electrical connection unit 1. Figure 4 is a plan view showing the first electronic component 20 and metal components 60A and 60B. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the metal components and the temperature detection unit. In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a plurality of first metal components 60, which include metal component 60A and metal component 60B. Metal component 60A and metal component 60B have, for example, shapes that are symmetrical in the Y direction.
[0052] Metal component 60A is positioned to correspond to the -Y-direction half of the first electronic component 20. Metal component 60A is adjacent to terminal portion 23A of the first electronic component 20 in the X-direction and is connected to terminal portion 23A of the first electronic component 20 in the X-direction. On the other hand, metal component 60B is positioned to correspond to the +Y-direction half of the first electronic component 20. Metal component 60B is adjacent to terminal portion 23B of the first electronic component 20 in the X-direction and is connected to terminal portion 23B of the first electronic component 20 in the X-direction.
[0053] In this embodiment, the case 21 has an insulating wall 21a protruding in the +X direction (see Figure 2). The insulating wall 21a is located in the center of the case 21 in the Y direction. The insulating wall 21a extends in the X and Z directions. For example, the insulating wall 21a extends across the entire height of the case 21 in the Z direction. The insulating wall 21a is located between the first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B. The insulating wall 21a electrically insulates the first terminal portion 23A and the second terminal portion 23B. In this embodiment, the insulating wall 21a is also located between the first portion 61 of the metal part 60A and the first portion 61 of the metal part 60B. The insulating wall 21a electrically insulates the first portion 61 of the metal part 60A and the first portion 61 of the metal part 60B.
[0054] In this embodiment, the case 21 of the first electronic component 20 has an end 21e1 in the -Y direction and an end 21e2 in the +Y direction (see Figure 4).
[0055] A part of the metal component 60A protrudes beyond the -Y direction side of the end 21e1 of the case 21 of the first electronic component 20. A part of the metal component 60A protrudes to a region that does not overlap with the first electronic component 20 when viewed in the X direction. This protrusion increases the heat capacity of the metal component 60A.
[0056] Similarly, a part of the metal component 60B protrudes beyond the +Y direction side of the end 21e2 of the case 21 of the first electronic component 20. A part of the metal component 60B protrudes to a region that does not overlap with the first electronic component 20 when viewed in the X direction. This protrusion increases the heat capacity of the metal component 60B.
[0057] <A1.4.2 The Second Metal Component> Next, returning to FIG. 1, the second metal component 70 will be described. The second metal component 70 is disposed between the second electronic component 30 and the bus bar 40. The second metal component 70 electrically connects the terminal portion 33 of the second electronic component 30 and the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. The second metal component 70 has, for example, a first portion 71 and a second portion 72.
[0058] Note that the details of the second metal component 70 are, for example, the same as those of the first metal component 60. Therefore, for the description of the second metal component 70, in the description of the first metal component 60 described above, "the first portion 61", "the first mounting hole 61h", "the second portion 62", "the second mounting hole 62h", "the first electronic component 20", "the main body portion 22", "the terminal portion 23", "the mounting hole 23h", "the first fastening member 81", "the second fastening member 82", "the first connection portion 41", "the mounting hole 41h", "the hole portion 60h", and "+X direction" should be read as "the first portion 71", "the first mounting hole 71h", "the second portion 72", "the second mounting hole 72h", "the second electronic component 30", "the main body portion 32", "the terminal portion 33", "the mounting hole 33h", "the first fastening member 91", "the second fastening member 92", "the second connection portion 42", "the mounting hole 42h", "the hole portion 70h", and "-X direction", respectively.
[0059] In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the second electronic component 30 is the X direction. The width WB2 of the second metal component 70 in the X direction is, for example, smaller than the width WB1 of the second electronic component 30 in the X direction. In the case where the longitudinal direction of the second electronic component 30 is the Y direction, the width of the second metal component 70 in the Y direction is, for example, smaller than the width of the second electronic component 30 in the Y direction.
[0060] <A1.5 Temperature detection unit> The temperature detection unit 80 is respectively accommodated in the hole portions 60h and 70h provided in the metal components 60 and 70. In this embodiment, the temperature detection unit 80 is accommodated in the hole portions 60h and 70h and fixed to the metal components 60 and 70 by, for example, a thermally conductive adhesive or the like. The temperature detection unit 80 can detect the temperature of the metal components 60 and 70. The temperature detection unit 80 outputs the temperature detection result as an electrical signal. The detection result of the temperature detection unit 80 can be input to a control device that performs temperature monitoring or displayed on an external display. As the temperature detection unit 80, for example, a thermistor can be used. In this embodiment, the temperature detection unit 80 has an elongated columnar shape such as a cylinder or a prism, and output wires are connected to the end portions in the longitudinal direction thereof.
[0061] The temperature detection unit 80 detects the temperature of the metal components 60 and 70. On the other hand, the metal components 60 and 70 are in direct contact with the terminal portions 23 and 33 and are indirectly connected to the terminal portions 23 and 33 via a fastening member 81 made of metal. That is, heat can be transferred between the metal components 60 and 70 and the terminal portions 23 and 33. The temperature detection unit 80 indirectly detects the temperature of the terminal portions 23 and 33 by detecting the temperature of the metal components 60 and 70.
[0062] <A2. Manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit> Next, a manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1 will be described. FIGS. 6 to 8 are cross-sectional views for explaining a manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1.
[0063] (First step) Figure 6 shows the first and second steps. In the first step, the temperature detection unit 80 is inserted into the hole 60h of the first metal part 60 and the hole 70h of the second metal part 70, respectively, and the temperature detection unit 80 is fixed inside the holes 60h and 70h using a thermally conductive adhesive or the like. This fixing integrates the first metal part 60 and the temperature detection unit 80. Similarly, the second metal part 70 and the temperature detection unit 80 are integrated.
[0064] (2nd process) In the second step, the first metal component 60 is fixed to the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 using the fastening member 81. This fixing forms a first assembly SA in which the first electronic component 20 and the first metal component 60 are integrated.
[0065] The second step is performed, for example, as follows: First, the first electronic component 20 is placed on the mounting table MP with the mounting hole 23h of the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20 facing vertically. Next, the first metal component 60 is placed on top of the first electronic component 20 with the first mounting hole 61h of the first metal component 60 facing vertically. Then, the first mounting hole 61h of the first metal component 60 is aligned with the mounting hole 23h of the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20. The first step is performed with the first electronic component 20 and the first metal component 60 in a first position. The first position is one in which the mounting hole 23h and the first mounting hole 61h are facing vertically.
[0066] Next, the fastening member 81 is inserted into the first mounting hole 61h of the first metal part 60 from the vertical direction. Then, the fastening member 81 that has passed through the first mounting hole 61h of the first metal part 60 engages with the mounting hole 23h of the terminal portion 23 of the first electronic component 20. This engagement forms the first assembly SA, in which the first electronic component 20 and the first metal part 60 are integrated. The vertical direction is an example of the "first mounting direction".
[0067] Similarly, the second metal component 70 is fixed to the terminal portion 33 of the second electronic component 30 using the fastening member 91. This fixing forms a second assembly SB in which the second electronic component 30 and the second metal component 70 are integrated.
[0068] (3rd step) Figure 7 shows the third step. In the third step, the busbar 40 is fixed to the base member 11. This step may be performed before the second step, after the second step, or in parallel with the second step.
[0069] The third step is carried out, for example, as follows: As described above, the fastening member 51 is first fixed to the base member 11, for example. The fastening member 51 protrudes in the vertical direction. The bus bar 40 is then placed on the base member 11 by inserting the fastening member 51 in the vertical direction into the mounting hole 43h of the bus bar 40. Next, the engaging member 52 (for example, a nut) is engaged with the upper end of the fastening member 51 from the vertical direction. This engagement fixes the bus bar 40 to the base member 11. In this embodiment, the bus bar 40 is fixed to the base member 11 before the electronic components 20 and 30 are fixed to the base member 11.
[0070] (4th step) Figure 8 shows the fourth step. The fourth step is performed after the second and third steps. In the fourth step, the first assembly SA is fixed to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 using the second fastening member 82. For example, the first metal part 60 included in the first assembly SA is fixed to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 using the second fastening member 82. This fixing electrically connects the first electronic component 20 and the busbar 40.
[0071] The fourth step is carried out, for example, as follows: First, the orientation of the first assembly SA is rotated 90 degrees from the first step. That is, it is changed from a first orientation (see Figure 6) in which the mounting holes 23h and the first mounting hole 61h are oriented vertically, to a second orientation (see Figure 8) in which the mounting holes 23h and the first mounting hole 61h are oriented horizontally, and the second mounting hole 62h of the first metal part 60 is oriented vertically.
[0072] Then, in the second position described above, the second portion 62 of the first metal part 60 is placed on the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. Then, the second mounting hole 62h of the first metal part 60 and the mounting hole 41h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 are aligned.
[0073] Next, the second fastening member 82 is inserted into the second mounting hole 62h of the first metal part 60 from the vertical direction. The second fastening member 82, having passed through the second mounting hole 62h of the first metal part 60, then engages with the mounting hole 41h of the first connection portion 41 of the bus bar 40. This engagement fixes the first metal part 60 to the first connection portion 41 of the bus bar 40. In other words, the first assembly SA is fixed to the first connection portion 41 of the bus bar 40. This fixing electrically connects the first electronic component 20 and the first connection portion 41 of the bus bar 40. In this embodiment, the direction in which the bus bar 40 is fixed to the base member 11 and the direction in which the first assembly SA is fixed to the bus bar 40 coincide.
[0074] Furthermore, in the fourth step, the mounting portion 24 of the first electronic component 20 may be fixed to the base member 11 using the fastening member 29. This operation can be performed, for example, as follows: First, the mounting hole 24h of the mounting portion 24 of the first electronic component 20 is aligned with the mounting hole 11h of the base member 11. Next, the fastening member 29 is inserted into the mounting hole 24h of the first electronic component 20 from the vertical direction. Then, the fastening member 29, having passed through the mounting hole 24h of the first electronic component 20, engages with the mounting hole 11h of the base member 11. This engagement fixes the first electronic component 20 to the base member 11. Note that the operation of fixing the first electronic component 20 to the base member 11 using the fastening member 29 may be performed before or after the operation of fixing the first metal component 60 to the busbar 40 using the second fastening member 82. In this embodiment, the direction in which the busbar 40 is fixed to the base member 11, the direction in which the first assembly SA is fixed to the busbar 40, and the direction in which the first electronic component 20 is fixed to the base member 11 are all the same.
[0075] Similarly, the orientation of the second assembly SB is rotated 90 degrees from the first step. That is, it is changed from a first orientation (see Figure 6) in which the mounting holes 33h and the first mounting hole 71h are oriented vertically to a second orientation (see Figure 8) in which the mounting holes 33h and the first mounting hole 71h are oriented horizontally, and the second mounting hole 72h of the second metal part 70 is oriented vertically.
[0076] Then, in the second position described above, the second portion 72 of the second metal part 70 is placed on the second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40. Then, the second mounting hole 72h of the second metal part 70 is aligned with the mounting hole 42h of the second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40.
[0077] Next, the second fastening member 92 is inserted into the second mounting hole 72h of the second metal part 70 from the vertical direction. The second fastening member 92, having passed through the second mounting hole 72h of the second metal part 70, then engages with the mounting hole 42h of the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. This engagement fixes the second metal part 70 to the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. In other words, the second assembly SB is fixed to the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. This fixing electrically connects the second electronic component 30 and the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. In this embodiment, the direction in which the bus bar 40 is fixed to the base member 11 and the direction in which the second assembly SB is fixed to the bus bar 40 coincide.
[0078] Also, in the fourth step, the mounting portion 34 of the second electronic component 30 may be fixed to the base member 11 using the fastening member 39. This operation is performed as follows, for example. First, the mounting holes 34h of the mounting portion 34 of the second electronic component 30 and the mounting holes 11h of the base member 11 are aligned. Next, the fastening member 39 is inserted into the mounting hole 34h of the second electronic component 30 from the vertical direction. Then, the fastening member 39 that has passed through the mounting hole 34h of the second electronic component 30 engages with the mounting hole 11h of the base member 11. By this engagement, the second electronic component 30 is fixed to the base member 11. Note that the operation of fixing the second electronic component 30 to the base member 11 using the fastening member 39 may be performed before or after the operation of fixing the second metal component 70 to the bus bar 40 using the second fastening member 92. In this embodiment, the direction of fixing the bus bar 40 to the base member 11, the direction of fixing the second assembly SB to the bus bar 40, and the direction of fixing the second electronic component 30 to the base member 11 are the same.
[0079] <A3. Function> Next, the function of the electrical connection unit 1 will be described. When the first electronic component 20 is energized, the main body portion 22 of the first electronic component 20 generates heat, and the terminal portion 23 connected to the main body portion 22 becomes hot. A part of the heat of the terminal portion 23 moves to the metal component 60. A temperature detection portion 80 is attached to the metal component 60. Therefore, the temperature of the terminal portion 23 can be indirectly detected by the temperature detection portion 80. Note that these operations are the same for the metal component 70.
[0080] <A4. Advantage> In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises electronic components 20 and 30 having terminal portions 23 and 33, and a busbar 40 electrically connected to the terminal portions 23 and 33. The electrical connection unit 1 further comprises metal parts 60 and 70 positioned between the terminal portions 23 and 33 and the busbar 40, and a temperature detection unit 80 capable of detecting the temperature of the metal parts 60 and 70. The metal parts 60 and 70 are in contact with the terminal portions 23 and 33 and are electrically connected to both the terminal portions 23 and 33 and the busbar 40. The temperature detection unit 80 is housed in holes 60h and 70h provided in the metal parts 60 and 70.
[0081] With this configuration, the temperature detection unit 80 can be easily installed on the metal parts 60 and 70 by housing it in the holes 60h and 70h. For example, compared to cases where the temperature detection unit is fastened together with the first fastening member 81, the complexity of the installation work for the temperature detection unit 80 can be reduced. Therefore, the burden on the worker can be reduced.
[0082] (Modified version of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment described above, the case in which the temperature detection unit 80 is attached to the metal parts 60 and 70 before the metal parts 60 and 70 are attached to the electronic components 20 and 30 and the busbar 40 was explained. However, the temperature detection unit 80 may be attached to the metal parts 60 and 70 after the metal parts 60 and 70 have been attached to the electronic components 20 and 30 and the busbar 40.
[0083] In a modified version of the first embodiment, with the metal parts 60 and 70 attached to the electronic components 20 and 30 and the busbar 40, the holes 60h and 70h open in the +Z direction. The +Z direction is an example of "upward". The base member 11 is positioned in the -Z direction of the electronic components 20 and 30 and the busbar 40. With this configuration, after the metal parts 60 and 70 are attached to the electronic components 20 and 30 and the busbar 40, the temperature detection unit 80 can be easily housed in the holes 60h and 70h from the +Z direction. Therefore, the burden on the worker can be reduced.
[0084] (Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the metal part includes a part body and a cap. The configuration other than those described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "direction intersecting the first direction".
[0085] <B1. Configuration of Metal Part> FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a plurality of metal parts 160 of the second embodiment. The metal part 160 has, for example, a metal part body 160A and a cap 160B.
[0086] <B1.1 Metal Part Body> The metal part body 160A corresponds to the metal parts 60 and 70 of the first embodiment. The metal part body 160A does not have the hole parts 60h and 70h formed in the metal parts 60 and 70 of the first embodiment. The metal part body 160A electrically connects the terminal part 23 of the electronic component 20 and the first connection part 41 of the bus bar 40. The metal part body 160A electrically connects the terminal part 33 of the electronic component 30 and the second connection part 42 of the bus bar 40.
[0087] The metal part body 160A has, for example, a first part 161 and a second part 162. Note that the details of the first part 161 and the second part 162 are the same as those of the first parts 61 and 71 and the second parts 62 and 72. Therefore, for the description of the first part 161 and the second part 162, except for the description of the hole parts 60h and 70h of the metal parts 60 and 70 in the first embodiment described above, "first part 61", "first part 71" should be read as "first part 161", and "second part 62", "second part 72" should be read as "second part 162".
[0088] <B1.2 Cap> The cap 160B is attached to the metal component body 160A. In the present embodiment, the cap 160B is formed of metal. The cap 160B is attached to the first portion 161 of the metal component body 160A. The cap 160B is attached to the upper end portion of the first portion 161.
[0089] The cap 160B has a cap body 163 and a cap attachment portion 164. The cap body 163 is disposed so as to cover all of the end face of the first portion 161 facing the +Z direction. The surface of the cap body 163 facing the -Z direction is in contact with at least a part of the end face of the first portion 161. In the present embodiment, the surface of the cap body 163 facing the -Z direction is in contact with the entire end face of the first portion 161. The cap attachment portion 164 extends in the +X direction from the +Y direction end portion and the -Y direction end portion of the cap body 163, respectively. These two cap attachment portions 164 sandwich the upper portion of the first portion 161 from the +Y direction and the -Y direction, respectively. The cap 160B formed in this way is attached to the upper portion of the first portion 161 by being pushed in from the +Z direction to the -Z direction. Note that the cap 160B may be fixed to the first portion 161 with an adhesive or the like.
[0090] The cap 160B has a hole portion 160h for accommodating the temperature detection portion 80. In the present embodiment, the hole portion 160h has an opening on the surface of the cap body 163 facing the +Y direction. The hole portion 160h is recessed from the surface of the cap body 163 facing the +Y direction toward the -Y direction. In the present embodiment, the hole portion 160h forms a columnar space extending in the Y direction. For example, the temperature detection portion 80 is inserted into the hole portion 160h and fixed with a thermally conductive adhesive or the like.
[0091] <B2. Manufacturing Method of Electrical Connection Unit> Next, a manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1 of the second embodiment will be described. Note that the processes other than the first process described below are the same as those of the first embodiment.
[0092] (First Process) In the first step, the temperature detection units 80 are respectively inserted into the holes 160h of the cap 160B, and the temperature detection units 80 are fixed within the holes 160h using a thermally conductive adhesive or the like. By this fixing, the cap 160B of the first metal component 160 and the temperature detection units 80 are integrated. In the first step, the cap 160B is attached to the first portion 161. In the second embodiment, after this first step, the second to fourth steps are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Note that the first step can also be performed after the fourth step.
[0093] <B3. Advantages> In the present embodiment, the metal component 160 includes a metal component main body 160A and a cap 160B. The metal component main body 160A contacts the terminal portions 23, 33. The cap 160B is attached to the metal component main body 160A. The cap 160B has a hole 160h that houses the temperature detection unit 80. According to such a configuration, the heat of the terminal portions 23, 33 is transmitted from the first portion 161 of the metal component main body 160A to the cap 160B. The temperature detection unit 80 is housed in the hole 160h of the cap 160B, and the temperature rise of the cap 160B due to the heat of the terminal portions 23, 33 transmitted to the cap 160B is detected by the temperature detection unit 80. On the other hand, since it is only necessary to attach the cap 160B to which the temperature detection unit 80 is attached to the first portion 161 of the metal component main body 160A, the temperature detection unit 80 can be easily attached to the metal component main body 160A at a desired timing. Therefore, the burden on the operator can be reduced.
[0094] (Third Embodiment) Next, the third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that it includes a holder. The configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. In the third embodiment, the Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "direction intersecting the first direction".
[0095] <C1. Configuration of Metal Component> FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a plurality of metal parts 260 according to the third embodiment. The metal part 260 has, for example, a metal part body 260A and a holder 260B.
[0096] <C1.1 Metal part body> The metal part body 260A corresponds to the metal parts 60 and 70 of the first embodiment. The metal part body 260A is different from the metal parts 60 and 70 of the first embodiment in that it has a thread groove on the inner peripheral surface of the hole. The metal part body 260A electrically connects the terminal part 23 of the electronic component 20 and the first connection part 41 of the bus bar 40. The metal part body 260A electrically connects the terminal part 33 of the electronic component 30 and the second connection part 42 of the bus bar 40. The metal part body 260A has, for example, a first part 261 and a second part 262.
[0097] The first part 261 of the metal part body 260A has a temperature detection part 80 and a hole 260h capable of accommodating the holder 260B. The hole 260h is formed in a columnar shape having a thread groove on the inner peripheral surface. The hole 260h is formed at the same position as the hole 60h of the first embodiment. The details of the first part 261 and the second part 262 other than the hole 260h are the same as the first part 61, 71 and the second part 62, 72 of the first embodiment.
[0098] <C1.2 Holder> The holder 260B holds the temperature detection part 80. The holder 260B is made of metal. For example, the holder 260B is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape. The holder 260B of the present embodiment has a bottomed cylindrical shape with a constant diameter. The holder 260B has a helical thread on the outer peripheral surface. The helical thread groove formed on the inner peripheral surface of the hole 260h corresponds to the thread of the holder 260B. That is, the holder 260B can be fastened to the hole 260h by a screwing action. The holder 260B can accommodate the temperature detection part 80 inside. The temperature detection part 80 is fixed to the holder 260B by a thermally conductive adhesive or the like.
[0099] <C2. Advantages> In this embodiment, the metal component 260 has a holder 260B that holds the temperature detection unit 80. The holder 260B has a thread on its outer peripheral surface. The inner peripheral surface of the hole 260h of the metal component 260 has a thread groove corresponding to the thread of the holder 260B. According to such a configuration, the heat of the terminal parts 23 and 33 is transmitted from the first part 261 of the metal component body 260A to the holder 260B. The temperature detection unit 80 is accommodated in the holder 260B, and the temperature rise of the holder 260B due to the heat of the terminal parts 23 and 33 transmitted to the holder 260B is detected by the temperature detection unit 80. On the other hand, since the holder 260B holding the temperature detection unit 80 can be fixed to the hole 260h simply by screwing it into the hole 260h, the temperature detection unit 80 can be easily attached to the metal component body 260A at a desired timing. Therefore, the burden on the operator can be reduced.
[0100] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the attachment position of the temperature detection unit 80 to the metal component is different from that in the first embodiment. The configuration other than that described below is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the Z direction is an example of the "first direction". The X direction is an example of the "direction intersecting the first direction".
[0101] <D1. Configuration of Metal Component> FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the metal component 360 of the fourth embodiment. The metal component 360 is a component corresponding to the metal components 60 and 70 of the first embodiment. The metal component 360 has, for example, a first part 361 and a second part 362. The metal component 360 forms an L shape by the first part 361 and the second part 362, similar to the metal component 60 of the first embodiment.
[0102] The first part 361 is a part connected to the terminal part 23 of the first electronic component 20, similar to the first parts 61 and 71 of the first embodiment. The first part 361 is different from the first parts 61 and 71 of the first embodiment in that it does not have a hole, and other configurations are the same as those of the first parts 61 and 71 of the first embodiment.
[0103] The second part 362 is the part connected to the first connection part 41 of the bus bar 40. The second part 362 protrudes in the +X direction from the -Z direction side end of the first part 361. The second part 362 is a plate part extending in the X direction and the Y direction. The second part 362 extends in the X direction along the first connection part 41 of the bus bar 40. In the present embodiment, the second part 362 has the same shape as the second part 62 of the first embodiment, and has a second mounting hole 62h through which the second fastening members 82, 92 (see FIG. 1) are passed.
[0104] The second part 362 has a hole 362h capable of accommodating the temperature detection part 80. The hole 362h has an opening on the surface facing the +Z direction of the second part 362. The hole 362h is recessed in the -Z direction from the surface facing the +Z direction of the second part 362. The shape of the hole 362h is the same as the hole 60h of the first embodiment and forms a columnar space extending in the Z direction. The hole 362h is formed in a region of the second part 362 where the second mounting hole 62h is not formed when viewed from the Z direction. The hole 362h is formed at a position away from the surface facing the +X direction of the first part 361 in the +X direction.
[0105] <D2. Advantages> A position on the second part 362 away from the surface facing the +X direction of the first part 361 is likely to be a dead space. In the present embodiment, since the hole 362h is provided so as to open on the surface facing the +Z direction of the second part and the temperature detection part 80 is attached, the dead space between the first part 361 and the second part 362 can be effectively utilized.
[0106] Some embodiments and modification examples have been described above. However, the embodiments and modification examples are not limited to the examples described above. For example, two or more of the above-described embodiments or modification examples may be combined and implemented. Also, the above-described embodiments and modification examples are merely illustrative. The electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a configuration including all of the above-described dimensional relationships, and may have a configuration having only a part of the above-described dimensional relationships. For example, the method of fixing the temperature detection unit 80 is not limited to using a thermally conductive adhesive. The temperature detection unit may also be fixed by press-fitting it into the hole. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0107] 1…Electrical connection unit 10…Cabinet 11…Base component 11a...support surface 11h... Mounting holes 11s…Plane 12…Cover component 20, 30… Electronic components 21... Cases 21a...Insulating wall 22...Main body 23,33…Terminal section 23A…1st terminal part 23B…Second terminal part 23h, 33h… Mounting holes 24, 34… Mounting part 24A...First mounting section 24B...Second mounting section 24h, 34h… Mounting holes 29, 39… Fastening members 31…case 32...Main body 40... Bus bar 40s…board surface 41...First connection section 41h, 42h, 43h… Mounting holes 42...Second connection section 43...Extension part 51… Fastening member 52…Engaging member 60, 70, 160, 260, 360… Metal parts 60A, 60B… Metal parts 60h,70h,160h,260h,362h…hole part 61,71,161,261,361…Part 1 61h, 71h…First mounting hole 62,72,162,262,362…Second part 62h, 72h… Second mounting hole 80...Temperature detection unit 81, 91…First fastening member 82, 92…Second fastening member 160A, 260A... Metal component body 160B... Cap 163...Cap body 164...Cap mounting part 260B...Holder SA...1st assembly SB…Second assembly
Claims
1. An electronic component having terminals, A busbar electrically connected to the aforementioned terminal, A metal component positioned between the terminal and the busbar, in contact with the terminal, and electrically connected to both the terminal and the busbar, The metal part comprises a temperature detection unit housed in a hole provided in the metal part and capable of detecting the temperature of the metal part. Electrical connection unit.
2. The hole provided in the aforementioned metal part opens upward. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.
3. The aforementioned metal part is A metal component body that contacts the aforementioned terminal, The system comprises a cap having the hole for housing the temperature detection unit and being attached to the metal part body. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.
4. The aforementioned metal part is The device further comprises a holder having screw threads on its outer surface for holding the temperature detection unit, The inner circumferential surface of the hole has screw grooves corresponding to the threads of the holder. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.
5. The aforementioned metal part is A first portion extending in the first direction and in contact with the terminal, It has a second portion that extends in a direction intersecting the first portion and contacts the busbar, The aforementioned hole is provided in the second portion and opens to the surface of the second portion facing the first direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.