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 base member, a component to be connected, a wiring member, and a metal member. The base member has a first support surface. The component to be connected has a metal plate portion arranged in an upright position relative to the first support surface. The wiring member has a connection portion that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from a first direction, which is the thickness direction of the metal plate portion, and is electrically connected to the metal plate portion. The metal member overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from the first 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 member 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] Improvement in the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit is expected.

[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 base member, a component to be connected, a wiring material, and a metal member. The base member has a first support surface. The component to be connected has a metal plate portion disposed in a posture erected with respect to the first support surface. The wiring material has a connection portion overlapping the metal plate portion when viewed in a first direction which is the plate thickness direction of the metal plate portion, and is electrically connected to the metal plate portion. The metal member overlaps the metal plate portion when viewed in the first direction.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled electrical connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. [Figure 3] A perspective view illustrating the first type of electronic component and heat storage unit of the embodiment. [Figure 4] A perspective view illustrating a second type of electronic component and heat storage unit of the embodiment. [Figure 5] A plan view illustrating the heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 5, along the line F6-F6. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional view illustrating a first modified example of the heat storage section of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] A cross-sectional view illustrating a second modified example of the heat storage section of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view illustrating a third modified example of the heat storage section of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] A cross-sectional view illustrating a fourth modified example of the heat storage section of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] A perspective view illustrating a fifth modified example of the heat storage unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] A plan view illustrating another heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 12, along the line F13-F13. [Figure 14] A cross-sectional view illustrating a first modified example of another heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] A cross-sectional view illustrating a second modified example of another heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] A cross-sectional view illustrating a third modified example of another heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] A cross-sectional view illustrating a fourth modified example of another heat storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 18]Perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit corresponding to the second aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 19] Perspective view for explaining the heat storage part of the second aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 20] Plan view for explaining the heat storage part of the second aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 21] Cross-sectional view taken along the line F21 - F21 of the structure shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] Cross-sectional view taken along the line F22 - F22 of the structure shown in FIG. 21. [Figure 23] Cross-sectional view for explaining the first modification example of the heat storage part of the second aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 24] Cross-sectional view for explaining the second modification example of the heat storage part of the second aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 25] Perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit corresponding to the third aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 26] Perspective view for explaining the heat storage part of the third aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 27] Cross-sectional view for explaining the heat storage part of the third aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 28] Cross-sectional view taken along the line F28 - F28 of the structure shown in FIG. 27. [Figure 29] Cross-sectional view for explaining the first modification example of the heat storage part of the third aspect of the embodiment. [Figure 30] Perspective view for explaining the second modification example of the heat storage part of the third aspect of the embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

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

[0010] In this disclosure, terms are defined as follows: "Connection" may include electrical connections, not just mechanical ones. That is, "Connection" may include cases where two elements to be connected are directly connected, not just cases where two elements to be connected are connected with another element in between. "Facing," "overlapping," or "adjacent" means that the virtual projections of two objects overlap when viewed from a particular direction. For example, "Facing" or "overlapping" may include cases where two objects face each other, not just cases where two objects face each other with another member or gap between them. Also, "Facing" or "overlapping" may include cases where, when viewed from the above-mentioned particular direction, they overlap completely, not just cases where they overlap at least partially. "Adjacent" may include cases where two objects are adjacent, not just cases where two objects are side by side with another member or gap between them. "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 first end 11e1 to the second end 11e2 of the lower wall 11 of the housing 10 described later (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 (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is, for example, the direction from the third end 11e3 to the fourth end 11e4 of the lower wall 11 of the housing 10 described later (see Figure 1). The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the lower wall 11 of the housing 10 (described later) toward the main body MU (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".

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

[0013] (Embodiment) <1. Configuration of the electrical connection unit> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a partially disassembled electrical connection unit 1 of an embodiment. The electrical connection unit 1 is an in-vehicle device installed in vehicles such as EVs (Electric Vehicles), HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles), or PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles). The electrical connection unit 1 may also be referred to as an "electrical connection box" or "junction box." However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device. The electrical connection unit 1 has, for example, a housing 10 and a main body MU.

[0014] (Enclosure) The housing 10 is a component that forms the outer casing of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 10 is, for example, a flat, box-shaped housing. The housing 10 is, for example, made of synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The housing 10 houses the main body MU. The housing 10 has, for example, a lower wall 11 (first wall), an upper wall 12 (second wall), and a peripheral wall 13 (third wall). The lower wall 11 covers at least a portion of the main body MU from below (-Z direction). The upper wall 12 covers at least a portion of the main body MU from above (+Z direction). The peripheral wall 13 surrounds the periphery of the main body MU.

[0015] The housing 10 includes, for example, a first member 10MA including a lower wall 11, and a second member 10MB including an upper wall 12 and a peripheral wall 13. In this embodiment, the housing 10 is formed by combining the first member 10MA and the second member 10MB. The lower wall 11 may be formed of an insulating sheet or the like instead of a rigid wall. Part or all of the housing 10 may be omitted.

[0016] (Main body) The main body MU is the part of the electrical connection unit 1 that performs the main function (e.g., switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). The main body MU may also be referred to as a "circuit configuration". The main body MU includes, for example, a base member 15, a plurality of electronic components 20, a plurality of connection components 30, a plurality of busbars 40, and a plurality of heat storage units HS.

[0017] <2. Base components> First, the base member 15 will be described. The base member 15 is a member that supports one or more electronic components 20 and / or one or more bus bars 40 inside the housing 10. The base member 15 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The base member 15 is positioned in the Z direction between the electronic components 20 and bus bars 40 and the lower wall 11 of the housing 10. The base member 15 is fixed to, for example, the lower wall 11 of the housing 10. The base member 15 supports one or more electronic components 20 and / or one or more bus bars 40 from below. The base member 15 may be a wall portion along the horizontal direction, or it may be a structure made up of multiple ribs standing upright in the vertical direction. The base member 15 may also be formed from a part of the housing 10.

[0018] <3. Electronic Components> Next, the electronic components 20 will be described. The electronic components 20 are electronic components mounted on the main unit MU according to the required functions. Examples of electronic components 20 include connectors, fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), capacitors, branching components, various sensors (e.g., current sensors or voltage sensors), electronic control units, or electronic component units in which two or more of these are unitized. However, the types of electronic components 20 are not limited to the above examples. Examples of electronic components 20 include heat-generating components that generate heat when energized.

[0019] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1. In this embodiment, the electronic component 20 includes, for example, a first type electronic component 20X and a second type electronic component 20Y. Note that the electrical connection unit 1 does not need to have both electronic component 20X and electronic component 20Y; it may have only one of them. Hereinafter, when electronic component 20X and electronic component 20Y are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "electronic component 20". Electronic component 20 is an example of a "component to be connected".

[0020] <3.1 Type 1 Electronic Components> First, let's explain the first type of electronic component, 20X. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a first type of electronic component 20X and a heat storage unit HS corresponding to the electronic component 20X. The electronic component 20X has, for example, a case 21, a component body 22, and a plurality of terminals 23.

[0021] (case) The case 21 is an outer enclosure member that forms the majority of the outer casing of the electronic component 20. The case 21 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The case 21 houses the component body 22. The case 21 and the component body 22 may be formed as a single unit.

[0022] (Main body of the component) The main body portion 22 of the component is responsible for the main function of the electronic component 20. For example, if the electronic component 20 is a relay, the main body portion 22 includes a switching portion (e.g., a contact portion) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 20 is a fuse, the main body portion 22 includes a fuse that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 20 is a capacitor, the main body portion 22 includes a portion that stores electric charge.

[0023] (Terminals) Terminal 23 is an electrical connection part exposed to the outside of case 21. Terminal 23 is electrically connected to the component body 22 inside case 21. Terminal 23 is, for example, made of metal and formed in a plate shape along the horizontal direction. The thickness direction of terminal 23 is the Z direction. Terminal 23 is an example of a "metal plate part".

[0024] The electronic component 20 includes terminals 23, specifically terminal 23A and terminal 23B. One of terminals 23A and terminal 23B is the positive terminal. The other of terminals 23A and terminal 23B is the negative terminal. One of terminals 23A and terminal 23B is an example of a "first terminal". The other of terminals 23A and terminal 23B is an example of a "second terminal".

[0025] In the first embodiment of the electronic component 20X, the multiple terminals 23 are arranged separately at both ends of the electronic component 20X in the horizontal direction. For example, terminals 23A and 23B are arranged separately at both ends of the electronic component 20X in the X direction. Each terminal 23 has a mounting hole 23h into which a fastening member 51 (e.g., a screw or bolt), which will be described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 23h is a through hole that penetrates the terminal 23 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 23h is an example of a "first mounting hole".

[0026] <3.2 Second Type Electronic Components> Next, we will explain the second type of electronic component, 20Y. Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating the second type of electronic component 20Y and the heat storage unit HS corresponding to the electronic component 20Y. The electronic component 20Y has, for example, a case 21, a component body 22, a plurality of terminals 23, and a mounting portion 24. The case 21 and component body 22 of the electronic component 20Y are the same as those of the electronic component 20X described above, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0027] (Terminals) Terminals 23A and 23B of the electronic component 20Y are located at one end of the electronic component 20Y in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Terminals 23A and 23B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each of terminals 23A and 23B faces the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0028] Each terminal 23 has a mounting hole 23h into which a fastening member 55 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 23h opens horizontally (e.g., in the -X direction). In this embodiment, the fastening member 55 is inserted into the mounting hole 23h from the X direction (e.g., from the -X direction side). The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 23h of the electronic component 20Y has a screw groove. The mounting hole 23h of the electronic component 20Y is, for example, a bottomed engagement hole provided in the electronic component 20Y.

[0029] (Mounting part) The mounting portion 24 is a part for fixing the electronic component 20Y. The mounting portion 24 is superimposed from the Z direction on a fixing portion 16 (e.g., a boss, see Figure 2) provided on the base member 15. The mounting portion 24 has a mounting hole 24h into which a fastening member 29 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is inserted. The mounting hole 24h is open in the Z direction. The mounting portion 24 is attached to the base member 15 by fastening the fastening member 29 passed through the mounting hole 24h to the fixing portion 16 of the base member 15. The electronic component 20Y is fixed to the base member 15 by the mounting portion 24 being attached to the base member 15.

[0030] <4. Connecting parts> Next, the connecting component 30 will be described. The connecting component 30 is positioned between the electronic component 20Y and the busbar 40 and electrically connects the electronic component 20Y and the busbar 40. The connecting component 30 forms part of the current-carrying path in the electrical connection unit 1. The connecting component 30 is a metal member formed of, for example, copper, a copper alloy, aluminum, or an aluminum alloy. In this embodiment, the length L12 of the connecting component 30 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the X direction) of the electronic component 20Y is smaller than the longitudinal length L11 of the electronic component 20Y. The connecting component 30 is an example of a "component to be connected". The connecting component 30 has, for example, a first part 31 and a second part 32.

[0031] (Part 1) The first portion 31 of the connecting component 30 is the portion that connects to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y. The first portion 31 extends in the Z direction along one end of the electronic component 20Y (e.g., the end in the -X direction). The first portion 31 is a plate portion that is aligned along the Z and Y directions. The first portion 31 is an upright portion that stands upright in the Z direction relative to the busbar 40. The first portion 31 is adjacent to the electronic component 20Y in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). For example, the first portion 31 is adjacent to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction) and connects to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y from the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0032] The first portion 31 of the connecting component 30 has a mounting hole 31h through which a fastening member 55 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is passed. The mounting hole 31h opens horizontally (e.g., in the X direction). The mounting hole 31h faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y. The first portion 31 is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y by the fastening member 55 passed through the mounting hole 31h engaging with the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20Y.

[0033] (Second part) The second part 32 of the connecting component 30 is the part that connects to the bus bar 40 (see Figure 2), which will be described later. The second part 32 is bent horizontally (for example, in the -X direction) from the -Z direction end of the first part 31 and extends along the horizontal direction. The second part 32 is a plate portion that runs along the X and Y directions. The second part 32 is adjacent to the bus bar 40 in the Z direction and connects to the bus bar 40 from the Z direction. The second part 32 of the connecting component 30 is an example of a "metal plate portion".

[0034] The second portion 32 of the connecting part 30 has a mounting hole 32h through which a fastening member 51, described later, passes. The mounting hole 32h is a through hole that penetrates the second portion 32 in the Z direction. The second portion 32 is fixed to the bus bar 40 by engaging the tip of the fastening member 51 that has passed through the mounting hole 32h with an engaging member 52 (for example, a nut, see Figure 2). The mounting hole 32h is an example of a "first mounting hole". In this embodiment, the first portion 31 and the second portion 32 form an L-shaped single piece connecting part 30.

[0035] In this disclosure, "the connecting component is positioned between the electronic component and the wiring material" is not limited to cases where a portion of the connecting component is located between the electronic component and the wiring material (e.g., a busbar) when viewed from the X or Y direction. "The connecting component is positioned between the electronic component and the wiring material" may also include cases where a portion of the connecting component is located between the electronic component and the wiring material (e.g., a busbar) when viewed from a direction inclined with respect to the X or Y direction.

[0036] <5. Busbar> Next, returning to Figure 2, we will describe the busbar 40. The busbar 40 is a component that forms an electrical circuit in the electrical connection unit 1. The busbar 40 extends between multiple connection target components and electrically connects multiple connection target components. "Connection target components" are, for example, electronic components 20, connection components 30, or busbar 49 for external connection. However, the connection target components are not limited to the above examples. Connection target components may also be busbars included in the electrical connection unit. The busbar 40 is formed of a metal material (e.g., a metal sheet) such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy. The busbar 40 is an example of a "connection member".

[0037] In this embodiment, the busbar 40 is formed in a plate shape along the horizontal direction. The busbar 40 extends in the X direction or the Y direction. The busbar 40 includes a first connecting portion 41, a second connecting portion 42, and an extension portion 43. In this embodiment, each of the first connecting portion 41, the second connecting portion 42, and the extension portion 43 is plate-shaped along the horizontal direction.

[0038] The first connecting portion 41 overlaps with at least a portion of one of the components to be connected (the first component to be connected) when viewed from the plate thickness direction (for example, the Z direction) of the first connecting portion 41. The first connecting portion 41 is electrically connected to the first component to be connected. The first connecting portion 41 includes a portion of the busbar 40 that overlaps with at least a portion of the first component to be connected, and is a portion that extends continuously in a specific direction. The first connecting portion 41 includes, for example, a portion that overlaps with the heat storage portion HS described later.

[0039] The second connection portion 42 overlaps with at least a portion of another component to be connected (the second component to be connected) when viewed from the plate thickness direction (for example, the Z direction) of the second connection portion 42. The second connection portion 42 is electrically connected to the second component to be connected. The second connection portion 42 includes a portion of the busbar 40 that overlaps with at least a portion of the second component to be connected, and is a portion that extends continuously in a specific direction. The second connection portion 42 includes, for example, a portion that overlaps with the heat storage portion HS described later.

[0040] The extension portion 43 is provided between the first connecting portion 41 and the second connecting portion 42, and extends to connect the first connecting portion 41 and the second connecting portion 42.

[0041] In this embodiment, a fastening member 51 is attached to each of the first connection portion 41 and the second connection portion 42 (see Figures 2 and 3). The fastening member 51 is, for example, a crimp bolt fixed to the bus bar 40. In this embodiment, each of the first connection portion 41 and the second connection portion 42 has a mounting hole 40h (see Figure 6). The mounting hole 40h is a through hole that penetrates the bus bar 40 in the Z direction. The fastening member 51 is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the bus bar 40 and protrudes from the first connection portion 41 or the second connection portion 42 in the +Z direction. Note that the fastening member 51 is not limited to a crimp bolt, but may be a general bolt or screw, etc. The mounting hole 40h is an example of a "second mounting hole".

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, the plurality of electronic components 20 includes electronic component 20A and electronic component 20B. Electronic component 20A is, for example, the first type electronic component 20X described above. Electronic component 20B is, for example, the second embodiment electronic component 20Y described above. However, the types of electronic components 20A and 20B are not limited to the examples described above. In this embodiment, the plurality of bus bars 40 includes bus bar 40A, bus bar 40B, and bus bar 40C.

[0043] The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A is located, for example, at the first end portion 40Aa of the busbar 40A. When viewed from the Z direction, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A overlaps with the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20A. The mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20A in the Z direction. The fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A, is inserted into the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20A. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20A by engaging the tip of the fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 and the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23A, with the engagement member 52.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A (for example, the first end portion 40Aa of the busbar 40A) extends linearly in the Y direction. The length L21 in the Y direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A (for example, the first end portion 40Aa of the busbar 40A) is longer than the length L22 in the X direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A (for example, the first end portion 40Aa of the busbar 40A) (see Figure 5). However, the shape of the busbar 40A is not limited to the above example.

[0045] The second connection portion 42 of busbar 40A is located, for example, at the second end 40Ab of busbar 40A. When viewed from the Z direction, the second connection portion 42 of busbar 40A overlaps with, for example, an external connection busbar 49. The second connection portion 42 of busbar 40A is physically and electrically connected to the external connection busbar 49.

[0046] The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B is located, for example, at the first end portion 40Ba of the busbar 40B. When viewed from the Z direction, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B overlaps with the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20A. The mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20A in the Z direction. The fastening member 51 passed through the mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20A. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B is physically and electrically connected to the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20A by engaging an engaging member 52 (e.g., a nut) with the tip of the fastening member 51 passed through the mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 and the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23A.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B (for example, the first end portion 40Ba of the busbar 40B) extends linearly in the Y direction. The length L23 in the Y direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B (for example, the first end portion 40Ba of the busbar 40B) is longer than the length L24 in the X direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B (for example, the first end portion 40Ba of the busbar 40B) (see Figure 5). However, the shape of the busbar 40B is not limited to the above example.

[0048] The second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40B is located, for example, at the second end portion 40Bb of the busbar 40B. When viewed from the Z direction, the second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40B overlaps with the connector 30 corresponding to the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20B. The mounting hole 40h of the second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40B faces the mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32 of the connector 30 in the Z direction. The second connection portion 42 of the busbar 40B is connected to the connector 50 by the fastening member 51 and the engaging member 52 as described above, and is electrically connected to the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20B via the connector 50.

[0049] The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40C overlaps with the connection component 30 corresponding to the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20B when viewed from the Z direction. The mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40C faces the mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32 of the connection component 30 in the Z direction. As described above, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40C is connected to the connection component 30 by the fastening member 51 and the engaging member 52, and is electrically connected to the terminal 23B of the electronic component 20B via the connection component 30.

[0050] <6. Heat storage section> Next, we will explain the heat storage unit HS. The heat storage section HS is a metal part that increases the heat storage (heat absorption) capacity of the electrical connection unit 1, thereby enhancing the heat storage (heat absorption) of the electrical connection unit 1. The electrical connection unit 1 has one or more of the following as the heat storage section HS: the heat storage section 70 of the first embodiment, the heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment, or the heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment. Note that the electrical connection unit 1 does not need to have all of the heat storage sections 70, 80, and 80', and may have only one of the heat storage section 70, the heat storage section 80, or the heat storage section 80'. The following will describe these heat storage sections 70, 80, and 80' in order.

[0051] <7. Heat storage unit of the first embodiment> First, with reference to Figure 2, the heat storage section 70 of the first embodiment will be described. The heat storage section 70 of the first embodiment is a heat storage section formed by one or more metal plates 71. The electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment includes, as a plurality of heat storage sections 70, a heat storage section 70X corresponding to the first type of electronic component 20X described above, and a heat storage section 70Y corresponding to the second type of electronic component 20Y described above. However, the electrical connection unit 1 does not need to have both the heat storage section 70X and the heat storage section 70Y, and may have only one of them.

[0052] <7.1 Heat storage unit compatible with Type 1 electronic components> Next, referring to Figure 3, a heat storage unit 70X corresponding to the first type of electronic component 20X will be described. The heat storage unit 70X is provided in relation to the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20X. The heat storage unit 70X includes one or more metal plates 71. Each of these one or more metal plates 71 overlaps with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20X when viewed from the Z direction.

[0053] In this embodiment, the heat storage section 70X includes a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71, namely a first metal plate 71A and a second metal plate 71B. Each of the first metal plate 71A and the second metal plate 71B overlaps with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20X when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage section 70X is formed by arranging a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 in the Z direction. The heat storage section 70X may be formed from a single metal plate 71, or from three or more metal plates 71. Each metal plate 71 is a plate member oriented horizontally. Each metal plate 71 is, for example, rectangular when viewed from the Z direction. The metal plates 71 are made of a material such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0054] Each metal plate 71 is arranged parallel to the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A. When viewed from the Z direction, each metal plate 71 overlaps with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A. Each metal plate 71 has a mounting hole 71h. The mounting hole 71h is a through hole that penetrates the metal plate 71 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the mounting hole 71h faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A. The mounting hole 71h is an example of a "third mounting hole".

[0055] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40 and the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, is passed through the mounting holes 71h of a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71. Then, the engaging member 52 engages with the tip of the fastening member 51 that is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40, the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, and the mounting holes 71h of the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71. With this configuration, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, the busbar 40, and the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 are fixed together by the fastening member 51. In this embodiment, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, the busbar 40, and the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 are fastened together using the fastening member 51.

[0056] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating the heat storage unit 70X. In this embodiment, the multiple metal plates 71 have the same size and shape when viewed from the Z direction. Each metal plate 71 is larger than the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A when viewed from the Z direction. For example, the length L41 of each metal plate 71 in the Y direction is larger than the length L31 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the Y direction. The length L42 of each metal plate 71 in the X direction is larger than the length L32 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the X direction.

[0057] In this embodiment, the length L41 of the metal plate 71 in the Y direction is greater than the length L42 of the metal plate 71 in the X direction. In other words, the metal plate 71 that overlaps with the terminal 23A of the electronic component 20A extends in the Y direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A. For example, the length L21 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A in the Y direction is equal to or greater than the length L41 of the metal plate 71 in the Y direction. The length L22 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40A in the X direction is equal to or greater than the length L42 of the metal plate 71 in the X direction.

[0058] Similarly, the metal plate 71 that overlaps with terminal 23B of electronic component 20A extends in the Y direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B. For example, the length L23 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B in the Y direction is equal to or greater than the length L41 of the metal plate 71 in the Y direction. The length L24 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40B in the X direction is equal to or greater than the length L42 of the metal plate 71 in the X direction.

[0059] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line F6-F6 of the structure shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned on the opposite side of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is positioned below the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A. The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is positioned in the Z direction between the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A and the base member 15. The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is in contact with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A from below. On the other hand, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned above the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A and are exposed to the internal space of the housing 10. One of the multiple metal plates 71 is in contact with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A from above.

[0060] In this embodiment, the total thickness T2 (i.e., the thickness of the heat storage section HS in the Z direction), which is the sum of the thicknesses of the multiple metal plates 71 in the Z direction, is greater than the thickness T1 of the first connection section 41 of the busbar 40 in the Z direction.

[0061] <7.2 Modified Heat Storage Unit for Type 1 Electronic Components> The following describes some variations of the heat storage unit 70X. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations of each variation are the same as those of the heat storage unit 70X described above.

[0062] <7.2.1 First Variation> Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage unit 70X of the first modified example. In this modified example, the multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged on the opposite side of the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A from the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is located below the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A and is in contact with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20A from below. The multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged below the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. The multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction between the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 and the base member 15. One of the multiple metal plates 71 is in contact with the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from below.

[0063] <7.2.2 Second Variation> Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 70X of the second modified example. In this modified example, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction between the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. Multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are sandwiched in the Z direction between the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from below. Another of the multiple metal plates 71 (second metal plate 71B) is in contact with the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from above.

[0064] <7.2.3 Third Variation> Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage unit 70X of the third modified example. In this modified example, the multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction, separated on both sides of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is positioned above the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from above. Another of the multiple metal plates 71 (second metal plate 71B) is positioned between the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, the second metal plate 71B is sandwiched in the Z direction between the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. The second metal plate 71B is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from below and with the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from above.

[0065] <7.2.4 Fourth Variation> Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage unit 70X of the fourth modified example. In this modified example, the multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction, separated on both sides of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is positioned above the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from above. In this modified example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is positioned below the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from below. Another of the multiple metal plates 71 (second metal plate 71B) is positioned below the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 and is in contact with the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from below. In other words, the first metal plate 71A is positioned on the first side (+Z direction) in the Z direction with respect to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. On the other hand, the second metal plate 71B is positioned on the second side (-Z direction) in the Z direction opposite to the first side with respect to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40.

[0066] <7.2.5 Fifth Variation> Figure 11 is a perspective view illustrating the fifth modified example of the heat storage section 70X. In this modified example, the plurality of metal plates 71 include a first metal plate 71A and a second metal plate 71B. The first metal plate 71A is located on the opposite side of the second metal plate 71B from the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. The first metal plate 71 has a base portion 75 and a bent portion 76. The base portion 75 is plate-shaped along the X and Y directions. When viewed from the Z direction, the base portion 75 is arranged overlapping with the second metal plate 71B. The bent portion 76 is formed by bending the base portion 75 from its end in a direction away from the second metal plate 71B (i.e., away from the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A). With this configuration, the heat capacity of the heat storage section 70X can be increased compared to the heat storage section 70X of the embodiment described above. This configuration allows for further improvement of the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit 1.

[0067] <7.3 Heat storage unit compatible with Type 2 electronic components> Next, returning to Figure 4, we will describe the heat storage section 70Y corresponding to the second type of electronic component 20Y. The heat storage section 70Y is provided on the connecting component 30. The heat storage section 70Y includes one or more metal plates 71. When viewed from the Z direction, these one or more metal plates 71 overlap with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30.

[0068] In this embodiment, the heat storage section 70Y includes a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71, namely a first metal plate 71A and a second metal plate 71B. Each of the first metal plate 71A and the second metal plate 71B overlaps with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage section 70Y is formed by arranging a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 in the Z direction. The heat storage section 70Y may be formed by a single metal plate 71, or by three or more metal plates 71. The details of the metal plate 71 are the same as those of the metal plate 71 of the heat storage section 70X described above, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0069] Each metal plate 71 is positioned parallel to the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30. Each metal plate 71 has a mounting hole 71h. When viewed from the Z direction, the mounting hole 71h faces the mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30.

[0070] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40 and the mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32 of the connecting part 30, is passed through the mounting holes 71h of a plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 (see Figure 13). Then, the engaging member 52 is engaged with the tip of the fastening member 51 that is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40, the mounting hole 32h of the second portion 32 of the connecting part 30, and the mounting holes 71h of the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 (see Figure 13). With this configuration, the second portion 32 of the connecting part 30, the busbar 40, and the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 are fixed together by the fastening member 51. In this embodiment, the second portion 32 of the connecting part 30, the busbar 40, and the plurality (e.g., two) of metal plates 71 are fastened together using the fastening member 51.

[0071] Figure 12 is a plan view illustrating the heat storage section 70Y. In this embodiment, the multiple metal plates 71 have the same size and shape as each other when viewed from the Z direction. The length L55 of each metal plate 71 in the Y direction is, for example, more than half the length L51 of the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 in the Y direction.

[0072] In this embodiment, the case 21 of the electronic component 20Y has a first side surface 21s1, which is the end face on the +Y direction side, and a second side surface 21s2, which is the end face on the -Y direction side. The connecting component 30 and metal plate 71 corresponding to terminal 23A, which is located on the +Y direction side of the two terminals 23, extend beyond the first side surface 21s1 of the case 21 of the electronic component 20Y in the +Y direction. On the other hand, the connecting component 30 and metal plate 71 corresponding to terminal 23B, which is located on the -Y direction side of the two terminals 23, extend beyond the second side surface 21s2 of the case 21 of the electronic component 20Y in the -Y direction.

[0073] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line F13-F13 of the structure shown in Figure 12. In this embodiment, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned on the opposite side of the first or second connecting portion 41 or 42 of the busbar 40 from the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30. For example, the first or second connecting portion 41 or 42 of the busbar 40 is positioned below the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30. The first or second connecting portion 41 or 42 of the busbar 40 is positioned between the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the base member 15 in the Z direction. The first or second connecting portion 41 or 42 of the busbar 40 is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from below. On the other hand, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned above the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and are exposed to the internal space of the housing 10. One of the multiple metal plates 71 is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from above.

[0074] In this embodiment, the total T2 (i.e., the Z-direction thickness of the heat storage section HS), which is the sum of the Z-direction thicknesses of the multiple metal plates 71, is greater than the Z-direction thickness T1 of the first connection section 41 or the second connection section 42 of the busbar 40.

[0075] <7.4 Modified Heat Storage Unit for Type 2 Electronic Components> The following describes several variations of the heat storage unit 70Y. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations of each variation are the same as those of the heat storage unit 70Y described above.

[0076] <7.4.1 First Variation> Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 70Y of the first modified example. In this modified example, the multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned on the opposite side of the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 to the first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40. For example, the first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40 is positioned below the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from below. The multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned below the first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40 and the base member 15 in the Z direction. One of the multiple metal plates 71 is in contact with the first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40 from below.

[0077] <7.4.2 Second Variation> Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second modified example of the heat storage section 70Y. In this modified example, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are positioned in the Z direction between the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the first connecting portion 41 or second connecting portion 42 of the busbar 40. Multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are sandwiched in the Z direction between the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the first connecting portion 41 or second connecting portion 42 of the busbar 40. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from below. Another of the multiple metal plates 71 (second metal plate 71B) is in contact with the first connecting portion 41 or second connecting portion 42 of the busbar 40 from above.

[0078] <7.4.3 Third Variation> Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 70Y of the third modified example. In this modified example, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction, separated on both sides of the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is positioned above the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from above. Another of the multiple metal plates 71 (second metal plate 71B) is positioned between the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the first or second connecting portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, the second metal plate 71B is sandwiched in the Z direction between the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the first or second connecting portion 41 of the busbar 40. The second metal plate 71B is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from below, and is in contact with the first connecting portion 41 or the second connecting portion 42 of the busbar 40 from above.

[0079] <7.4.4 Fourth Variation> Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 70Y of the fourth modified example. In this modified example, multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 are arranged in the Z direction, separated on both sides of the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the connecting portion (first connecting portion 41 or second connecting portion 42) of the busbar 40. For example, one of the multiple metal plates 71 (first metal plate 71A) is positioned above the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from above. In this modified example, the first connecting portion 41 or the second connecting portion 42 of the busbar 40 is positioned below the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and is in contact with the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 from below. One of the multiple metal plates 71 (the second metal plate 71B) is positioned below the first connection portion 41 or the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40 and is in contact with the first connection portion 41 or the second connection portion 42 of the bus bar 40 from below. In other words, the first metal plate 71A is positioned on the first side (+Z direction side) in the Z direction with respect to the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the connection portion (first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42) of the bus bar 40. On the other hand, the second metal plate 71B is positioned on the second side (-Z direction side) in the Z direction opposite to the first side with respect to the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 and the connection portion (first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42) of the bus bar 40.

[0080] <7.5 Advantages of the heat storage unit of the first embodiment> As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit that does not have a heat storage section 70. In such a configuration, for example, if a large current flows for a short period of time, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit.

[0081] Therefore, in this embodiment, the electrical connection unit includes a component to be connected having a metal plate portion (for example, an electronic component 20 having a terminal 23, or a connection component 30 having a second portion 32), a wiring member (for example, a busbar 40) electrically connected to the metal plate portion and having a connection portion (for example, a first connection portion 41 or a second connection portion 42) that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from a first direction which is the thickness direction of the metal plate portion, and one or more metal plates (for example, a metal plate 71) that overlap with the metal plate portion when viewed from the first direction. With this configuration, a portion of the heat generated by the electrical connection unit can be stored by the one or more metal plates. Alternatively, the heat dissipation area can be increased by the one or more metal plates. This action can improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (for example, heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0082] One might consider using a rectangular metal block as the heat storage element. However, such metal blocks are not inexpensive, so using them as a heat storage element is detrimental to reducing the cost of the electrical connection unit. On the other hand, metal plates like those in the above configuration are available at a lower cost than metal blocks. Therefore, the above configuration makes it easier to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit while also reducing its cost.

[0083] In this embodiment, the metal plate portion has a first mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 23h or mounting hole 32h) that penetrates the metal plate portion in the first direction. The connection portion of the cable member has a second mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 40h) facing the first mounting hole. Each of the one or more metal plates has a third mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 71h) facing the first mounting hole. The component to be connected, the cable member, and the one or more metal plates are fixed by fastening members (e.g., fastening members 51) passed through the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole, and the third mounting hole. With this configuration, the component to be connected, the cable member, and the one or more metal plates can be fixed by a simple fastening structure. This configuration makes it easier to miniaturize and / or reduce the cost of the electrical connection unit.

[0084] In this embodiment, the component to be connected is an electronic component. The metal plate portion is the terminal of the electronic component. With this configuration, it becomes easier to transfer heat directly from the terminal of the electronic component to one or more metal plates. This action makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0085] In this embodiment, the component to be connected is a connecting component placed between the electronic component and the cable material. With this configuration, even when it is difficult to directly attach a metal plate to the terminals of the electronic component, it becomes easier to transfer heat from the electronic component to one or more metal plates. This action makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0086] In this embodiment, each of the one or more metal plates is larger than the metal plate portion when viewed from the first direction. This configuration makes it easier to increase the heat capacity of the heat storage portion formed by the one or more metal plates. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0087] In this embodiment, the one or more metal plates include a first metal plate (e.g., a first metal plate 71A) and a second metal plate (e.g., a second metal plate 71B). With this configuration, the multiple metal plates can promote the storage or dissipation of some of the heat generated by the electrical connection unit. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal properties (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first and second metal plates are positioned on the opposite side of the metal plate portion from the connection portion of the cable guide. With this configuration, the electrical resistance between the metal plate portion and the connection portion of the cable guide can be reduced compared to the case where a metal plate is positioned between the metal plate portion and the connection portion of the cable guide. This configuration improves the electrical characteristics of the electrical connection unit. Furthermore, when the single metal plate is in contact with the metal plate portion, heat is more easily transferred from the metal plate portion to the metal plate. This configuration further improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation). In addition, with this configuration, if a gap is formed between the metal plate and the cable guide due to the presence of the metal plate portion between the metal plate and the cable guide, the heat dissipation area can be increased.

[0089] In this embodiment, the first metal plate and the second metal plate are positioned on the opposite side of the connection portion of the cable guide from the metal plate portion. With this configuration, the electrical resistance between the metal plate portion and the connection portion of the cable guide can be reduced compared to the case where a metal plate is positioned between the metal plate portion and the connection portion of the cable guide. This configuration makes it possible to improve the electrical characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0090] In this embodiment, the first metal plate and the second metal plate are arranged separately on both sides of the metal plate portion in the first direction. With this configuration, the two metal plates can be arranged in a dispersed manner compared to the case where the two metal plates are arranged together on one side of the metal plate portion. This configuration improves the heat dissipation of the two metal plates compared to the case where the two metal plates are arranged together. Furthermore, with this configuration, it becomes easier to reduce the distance between the two metal plates and the metal plate portion compared to the case where the two metal plates are arranged together on one side of the metal plate portion. In other words, with this configuration, heat is more easily transferred from the metal plate portion to the two metal plates. These effects make it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0091] In this embodiment, the first metal plate and the second metal plate are arranged separately on both sides in the first direction with respect to the connection portion between the metal plate portion and the cable guide. With this configuration, the two metal plates can be arranged in a dispersed manner compared to the case where the two metal plates are arranged together on one side of the metal plate portion. With this configuration, the heat dissipation of the two metal plates can be improved compared to the case where the two metal plates are arranged together. Furthermore, with this configuration, the electrical resistance between the connection portion of the metal plate portion and the cable guide can be reduced compared to the case where a metal plate is arranged between the metal plate portion and the connection portion of the cable guide. With this configuration, the electrical characteristics of the electrical connection unit can be improved.

[0092] <8. Heat storage unit of the second embodiment> <8.1 Configuration of the heat storage unit in the second embodiment> Next, the heat storage unit 80 of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 18 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 having a heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment. Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating the heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment. The heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment is formed by, for example, one metal member 81. The metal member 81 is a rectangular parallelepiped metal block.

[0093] The metal member 81 is provided, for example, with respect to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. The metal member 81 is formed from a material such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy. The metal member 81 is positioned parallel to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. When viewed from the Z direction, the metal member 81 overlaps with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. In this embodiment, the metal member 81 is positioned with respect to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A on the side opposite to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. The metal member 81 has, for example, a block body 85 and a hole 86.

[0094] Figure 20 is a plan view illustrating the heat storage unit 80 of the second embodiment. The block body 85 is a metal part having a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The length L61 of the block body 85 in the Y direction is, for example, the same as or greater than the length L31 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the Y direction. However, the length L61 of the block body 85 in the Y direction may be smaller than the length 31 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the Y direction.

[0095] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 20 along the line F21-F21. The Z-direction thickness T61 of the block body 85 (i.e., the Z-direction thickness of the metal member 81) is, for example, more than twice the Z-direction thickness T1 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. The Z-direction thickness T61 of the block body 85 (i.e., the Z-direction thickness of the metal member 81) is, for example, greater than the Z-direction length L71 of the fastening member 51.

[0096] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51 has an upper end 51e as its end on the +Z direction side. The block body 85 extends beyond the upper end 51e of the fastening member 51 in the +Z direction side. Also in this embodiment, the electronic component 20A has an upper end 21e1 as its end on the +Z direction side. The upper end 21e1 is an example of a "first end". The block body 85 extends beyond the upper end 21e1 of the electronic component 20A, which is a first type electronic component 20X, in the +Z direction side.

[0097] On the other hand, the electronic component 20B, which is the second type of electronic component 20Y, has an upper end 21e2 as its +Z-direction end. The upper end 21e2 of electronic component 20B is located on the +Z-direction side than the upper end 21e1 of electronic component 20A. The block body 85 does not, for example, extend beyond the imaginary line L that extends horizontally from the upper end 21e1 of electronic component 20B. The block body 85 is positioned in the space between the terminal 23 of electronic component 20A and the imaginary line L. This configuration makes it easier to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit 1. In the example shown in Figure 21, the base member 15 has a housing portion 15c that is recessed toward the -Z direction. By positioning a portion of electronic component 20A in the housing portion 15c of the base member 15, electronic component 20A is positioned on the -Z-direction side than electronic component 20B.

[0098] The hole 86 is provided in the block body 85. The hole 86 is a cylindrical hole extending in the Z direction. The hole 86 opens in the +Z direction. The diameter of the hole 86 is larger than the engaging member 52 and washer that engage with the fastening member 51. With the provision of the hole 86, the block body 85 has a base portion 85a, a peripheral wall portion 85b, a space portion 85c, and a mounting hole 85h.

[0099] The base portion 85a is a plate portion that runs horizontally. When viewed from the Z direction, the base portion 85a faces the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20. For example, the base portion 85a contacts the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20 from the +Z direction side. The peripheral wall portion 85b extends in the Z direction from the peripheral edge of the base portion 85a toward the opposite side of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. The peripheral wall portion 85b surrounds the hole 86. The space portion 85c is a space formed inside the peripheral wall portion 85b by the hole 86. When viewed from the Z direction, the space portion 85c faces the base portion 85a. The space portion 85c is open toward the +Z direction side.

[0100] The mounting hole 85h is provided in the base portion 85a. The mounting hole 85h is a through hole that penetrates the base portion 85a in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the mounting hole 85h faces the space portion 85c. When viewed from the Z direction, the mounting hole 85h faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A. The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 85h does not have, for example, screw grooves. However, the mounting hole 85h may also be a hole with screw grooves into which the fastening member 51 engages. Alternatively, the mounting hole 85h may be a bottomed hole that opens toward the -Z direction. The mounting hole 85h is an example of a "third mounting hole".

[0101] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40 and the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, is passed through the mounting hole 85h of the block body 85. The engaging member 52 is then engaged with the tip of the fastening member 51 that is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40, the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, and the mounting hole 85h of the block body 85. The engaging member 52 is housed in the space 85c of the block body 85. With this configuration, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, the busbar 40, and the metal member 81 are fixed together by the fastening member 51. In this embodiment, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, the busbar 40, and the metal member 81 are fastened together using the fastening member 51.

[0102] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 21 along the line F22-F22. In this embodiment, the thickness T82 in the X direction of at least a portion of the peripheral wall portion 85b of the block body 85 is greater than the thickness T81 in the Z direction of the base portion 85a of the block body 85. This configuration makes it easier to secure a larger heat capacity for the metal member 81.

[0103] <8.2 Modified example of the heat storage unit in the second embodiment> Next, we will describe some modified versions of the heat storage unit 80. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations of each modified version are the same as those of the heat storage unit 80 described above.

[0104] <8.2.1 First Variation> Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 80 of the first modified example. In this modified example, the metal member 81 is larger than the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A when viewed from the Z direction. For example, the length of the metal member 81 in the X direction is larger than the length of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the X direction. Alternatively / in addition, the length of the metal member 81 in the Y direction may be larger than the length of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A in the Y direction. With this configuration, the heat capacity and heat dissipation area of ​​the heat storage section 80 can be increased compared to the embodiment described above. With this configuration, the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved.

[0105] <8.2.2 Second Variation> Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage unit 80 of the second modified example. In this modified example, the metal member 81 is positioned on the opposite side of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is positioned below the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A from below. The metal member 81 is positioned below the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. In the Z direction, the metal member 81 is positioned between the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 and the base member 15. The metal member 81 is in contact with the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 from below.

[0106] <8.2.3 Third Variation> In the embodiment described above, the heat storage unit 80 is provided on terminal 23 of electronic component 20A. However, the heat storage unit 80 may be provided on the connecting component 30 instead of terminal 23 of electronic component 20A. That is, instead of the heat storage unit 70Y of the first embodiment, the heat storage unit 80 of the second embodiment may be provided on the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30.

[0107] <8.3 Advantages of the heat storage unit of the second embodiment> As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit that does not have a heat storage section 80. In such a configuration, for example, if a large current flows for a short period of time, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit.

[0108] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit comprises a component to be connected having a metal plate portion (for example, an electronic component 20 having a terminal 23, or a connection component 30 having a second portion 32), a wiring member (for example, a busbar 40) electrically connected to the metal plate portion and having a connection portion (for example, a first connection portion 41 or a second connection portion 42) that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from a first direction which is the thickness direction of the metal plate portion, and a metal member (for example, a metal member 81) that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from the first direction. The metal member is a metal block whose thickness in the first direction is at least twice the thickness of the connection portion of the wiring member in the first direction. With this configuration, the metal member, which is a metal block, can store some of the heat generated by the electrical connection unit. Alternatively, the metal member, which is a metal block, can increase the heat dissipation area. This action can improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (for example, heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0109] In this embodiment, the metal plate portion has a first mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 23h or mounting hole 32h) that penetrates the metal plate portion in the first direction. The connection portion of the cable member has a second mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 40h) facing the first mounting hole. The metal member has a third mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 85h) facing the first mounting hole. The component to be connected, the cable member, and the metal member are fixed by fastening members (e.g., fastening members 51) passed through the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole, and the third mounting hole. With this configuration, the component to be connected, the cable member, and the metal member can be fixed by a simple fastening structure. This configuration makes it easier to miniaturize and / or reduce the cost of the electrical connection unit.

[0110] In this embodiment, the metal member has a base portion (e.g., base portion 85a) facing the metal plate portion, a peripheral wall portion (e.g., peripheral wall portion 85b) extending in the same direction from the peripheral edge of the base portion toward the opposite side of the metal plate portion, and a space portion (e.g., space portion 85c) formed inside the peripheral wall portion. The third mounting hole is provided in the base portion and faces the space portion. With this configuration, the fastening member 51 that fixes the metal block can be made smaller. This makes it easier to reduce the cost of the electrical connection unit.

[0111] In this embodiment, the component to be connected is an electronic component. The metal plate portion is the terminal of the electronic component. With this configuration, heat can be easily transferred directly from the terminal of the electronic component to the metal member, which is a metal block. This action can further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0112] In this embodiment, the metal member is positioned on the opposite side of the metal plate from the connection portion of the cable. With this configuration, the electrical resistance between the metal plate and the connection portion of the cable can be reduced compared to the case where the metal member is positioned between the metal plate and the connection portion of the cable. This configuration improves the electrical characteristics of the electrical connection unit. Furthermore, when the metal member is in contact with the metal plate, heat is more easily transferred from the metal plate to the metal member. This configuration further improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0113] In this embodiment, the component to be connected has a first end (e.g., upper end 21e1) in the first direction. The metal member extends beyond the first end of the component to be connected in the first direction. With this configuration, it is easy to increase the heat capacity of the heat storage section formed by the metal member. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0114] <9. Heat storage unit of the third embodiment> <9.1 Configuration of the heat storage unit in the third embodiment> Next, the heat storage unit 80' of the third embodiment will be described. Figure 25 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 having a heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment. Figure 26 is a perspective view illustrating the heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment.

[0115] In this embodiment, the base member 15 has a support surface 15s. The support surface 15s is a surface facing the +Z direction. The support surface 15s extends along the X and Y directions. The support surface 15s is positioned below the extension portion 43 of the bus bar 40 and supports the extension portion 43 of the bus bar 40 from below. The support surface 15s is an example of a "first support surface".

[0116] (Bus bar) First, let's describe the bus bar 40. In this embodiment, the extended portion 43 of the bus bar 40 is a plate portion that runs along the X and Y directions. The extended portion 43 of the bus bar 40 is arranged parallel to the support surface 15s of the base member 15 and extends along the support surface 15s of the base member 15.

[0117] On the other hand, the first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40 is positioned in an upright position relative to the support surface 15s of the base member 15. For example, the first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40 is a plate portion that runs along the Y and Z directions. The first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40 is formed by bending a part of the bus bar 40, which is a plate member, from the extended portion 43. The mounting hole 40h of the bus bar 40 penetrates the first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). The fastening member 51 fixed to the first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40 protrudes horizontally (e.g., the -X direction) from the first connecting portion 41 of the bus bar 40.

[0118] (Electronic components) Next, the electronic component 20 will be described. In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has an electronic component 20C as an example of the electronic component 20. The electronic component 20C is, for example, the first type electronic component 20X described above. The electronic component 20C has, for example, a case 21, a component body 22, and a plurality of terminals 23. The electronic component 20C is an electronic component in which the dimension in a specific direction (direction D2 described later) is large.

[0119] Here, the direction in which the multiple terminals 23 of the electronic component 20C are aligned is defined as the D1 direction, the thickness direction of the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20C is defined as the D2 direction, and the direction that intersects (for example, is orthogonal to) the D1 and D2 directions is defined as the D3 direction. In this embodiment, the electronic component 20C is arranged in a lateral orientation such that the D2 direction is aligned with the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction). For example, the electronic component 20C is arranged such that the D1 direction is aligned with the Y direction, the D2 direction is aligned with the X direction, and the D3 direction is aligned with the Z direction. By arranging it in this orientation, the height of the electrical connection unit 1 can be reduced.

[0120] In other words, the electronic component 20C is positioned with its terminals 23 upright relative to the support surface 15s of the base member 15. The terminals 23 are plate-like portions that align with the Y and Z directions. The mounting holes 23h are through-holes that penetrate the terminals 23 in the X direction. The first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 overlaps with the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20C when viewed from the X direction. The mounting hole 40h of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminals 23 of the electronic component 20C when viewed from the X direction.

[0121] (Heat storage part) Next, the heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment will be described. The heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment is formed by, for example, one metal member 81, similar to the heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment. The metal member 81 is a rectangular parallelepiped metal block. The details of the metal member 81 are the same as those of the metal member 81 of the heat storage section 80 of the second embodiment, so redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0122] The metal member 81 is positioned parallel to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. In this embodiment, the metal member 81 overlaps with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C when viewed from the X direction. In this embodiment, the metal member 81 is positioned on the opposite side of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C from the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. The metal member 81 has, for example, a block body 85 and a hole 86.

[0123] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 80' of the third embodiment. The block body 85 is a metal part having a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The length L61 of the block body 85 in the Z direction is, for example, the same as or greater than the length L31 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C in the Z direction. However, the length L61 of the block body 85 in the Z direction may be smaller than the length L31 of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C in the Z direction.

[0124] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 27 along the line F28-F28. The thickness T61 of the block body 85 in the X direction (i.e., the thickness of the metal member 81 in the X direction) is, for example, more than twice the thickness T1 of the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 in the X direction. The thickness T61 of the block body 85 in the X direction (i.e., the thickness of the metal member 81 in the X direction) is, for example, greater than the length L71 of the fastening member 51 in the X direction.

[0125] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51 has an end 51e as its end on the -X direction side. The block body 85 extends beyond the end 51e of the fastening member 51 in the -X direction side. Also in this embodiment, the electronic component 20C has an end 21e1 as its end on the -X direction side. End 21e1 is an example of a "first end". The block body 85 extends beyond the end 21e1 of the electronic component 20C in the -X direction side.

[0126] The hole 86 is provided in the block body 85. The hole 86 is a cylindrical hole extending in the X direction. The hole 86 opens in the -X direction. The diameter of the hole 86 is larger than the engaging member 52 and washer that engage with the fastening member 51. With the provision of the hole 86, the block body 85 has a base portion 85a, a peripheral wall portion 85b, a space portion 85c, and a mounting hole 85h.

[0127] The base portion 85a is a plate portion that runs along the Y and Z directions. When viewed from the X direction, the base portion 85a faces the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. For example, the base portion 85a contacts the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C from the -X direction side. The peripheral wall portion 85b extends in the X direction from the peripheral edge of the base portion 85a toward the opposite side of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. The peripheral wall portion 85b surrounds the hole 86. The space portion 85c is a space formed inside the peripheral wall portion 85b by the hole 86. When viewed from the X direction, the space portion 85c faces the base portion 85a. The space portion 85c is open toward the -X direction side.

[0128] The mounting hole 85h is provided in the base portion 85a. The mounting hole 85h is a through hole that penetrates the base portion 85a in the X direction. When viewed from the X direction, the mounting hole 85h faces the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. The mounting hole 85h is an example of a "third mounting hole".

[0129] In this embodiment, the fastening member 51, which is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40 and the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C, is passed through the mounting hole 85h of the block body 85. The engaging member 52 is then engaged with the tip of the fastening member 51 that is passed through the mounting hole 40h of the busbar 40, the mounting hole 23h of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20A, and the mounting hole 85h of the block body 85. The engaging member 52 is housed in the space 85c of the block body 85. With this configuration, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C, the busbar 40, and the metal member 81 are fixed together by the fastening member 51. In this embodiment, the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C, the busbar 40, and the metal member 81 are fastened together using the fastening member 51.

[0130] <9.2 Modified example of the heat storage unit in the third embodiment> Next, we will describe some modified versions of the heat storage unit 80'. Note that, apart from the configurations described below, the configurations of each modified version are the same as those of the heat storage unit 80' described above.

[0131] <9.2.1 First Variation> Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 80' of the first modified example. In this modified example, the metal member 81 is positioned on the opposite side of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C relative to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40. For example, the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 is positioned on the -X side relative to the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C from the -X side. The metal member 81 is positioned on the +X side relative to the first connection portion 41 of the busbar 40 and is in contact with the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C from the +X side.

[0132] <9.2.2 Second Variation> Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the heat storage section 80' of the second modified example. In this modified example, the heat storage section 80' includes one or more metal plates 71 instead of the metal member 81. For example, the heat storage section 80' is formed by stacking multiple (e.g., two) metal plates 71 in the X direction. The heat storage section 80' may be formed by one metal plate 71, or by three or more metal plates 71. The metal plate 71 is a plate member oriented along the Y and Z directions. The metal plate 71 has a mounting hole 71h that penetrates the metal plate 71 in the X direction. The details of the metal plate 71 are the same as those of the metal plate 71 in the first embodiment, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0133] <9.2.3 Third Variation> In the embodiment described above, the heat storage unit 80' is provided on the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. However, the heat storage unit 80' may be provided on the connecting component 30 instead of the terminal 23 of the electronic component 20C. That is, instead of the heat storage unit 70Y of the first embodiment, the heat storage unit 80' of the third embodiment may be provided on the second portion 32 of the connecting component 30 in a lying position.

[0134] <9.3 Advantages of the third embodiment of the heat storage unit> As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit that lacks the heat storage section 80'. In such a configuration, for example, if a large current flows for a short period, a significant temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit.

[0135] Therefore, in this embodiment, the electrical connection unit has a base member (e.g., base member 15) having a first support surface (e.g., support surface 15s), a component to be connected (e.g., an electronic component 20 having terminals 23, or a connecting component 30 having a second portion 32)) having a metal plate portion positioned upright relative to the first support surface, a wiring member (e.g., bus bar 40) electrically connected to the metal plate portion and having a connection portion (e.g., first connection portion 41 or second connection portion 42) that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from a first direction which is the thickness direction of the metal plate portion, and a metal member that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from the first direction. With this configuration, the metal member can store a portion of the heat generated by the electrical connection unit. Alternatively, the metal member can increase the heat dissipation area. This action can improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0136] Here, if the metal plate portion can be positioned in an upright position relative to the first support surface, then long electronic components in a specific direction can be positioned in a horizontal position. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit. Furthermore, if the metal plate portion can be positioned in an upright position relative to the first support surface, both sides of the metal plate portion are easily exposed to the interior of the electrical connection unit 1, making it easier to attach the wiring material and the metal members to the metal plate portion. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0137] In this embodiment, the cable guide includes an extended portion (e.g., an extended portion 43) that extends along the first support surface. The connection portion of the cable guide is formed by bending a part of the cable guide from the extended portion. With this configuration, even when long electronic components in a specific direction are arranged in a lying position, the cable guide including the extended portion that extends along the first support surface can be used. This configuration makes it possible to miniaturize the electrical connection unit.

[0138] In this embodiment, the metal plate portion has a first mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 23h or mounting hole 32h) that penetrates the metal plate portion in the first direction. The connection portion of the cable member has a second mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 40h) facing the first mounting hole. The metal member has a third mounting hole (e.g., mounting hole 85h) facing the first mounting hole. The component to be connected, the cable member, and the metal member are fixed by fastening members (e.g., fastening members 51) passed through the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole, and the third mounting hole. With this configuration, the component to be connected, the cable member, and the metal member can be fixed by a simple fastening structure. This configuration makes it easier to miniaturize and / or reduce the cost of the electrical connection unit.

[0139] In this embodiment, the component to be connected is an electronic component. The metal plate portion is the terminal of the electronic component. With this configuration, heat can be easily transferred directly from the terminal of the electronic component to the metal member. This action can further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0140] In this embodiment, the metal member is a metal block whose thickness in the first direction is at least twice the thickness of the connection portion of the cable member in the first direction. With this configuration, it is easy to increase the heat capacity of the heat storage portion formed by the metal member. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0141] In this embodiment, the metal member is a metal plate that runs along the metal plate portion. Such a metal plate is available at a lower cost than a metal block. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to reduce the cost of the electrical connection unit while improving its thermal characteristics.

[0142] In this embodiment, the metal member is positioned on the opposite side of the metal plate from the connection portion of the cable. With this configuration, the electrical resistance between the metal plate and the connection portion of the cable can be reduced compared to the case where the metal member is positioned between the metal plate and the connection portion of the cable. This configuration improves the electrical characteristics of the electrical connection unit. Furthermore, when the metal member is in contact with the metal plate, heat is more easily transferred from the metal plate to the metal member. This configuration further improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation).

[0143] Several embodiments and modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the configurations of the heat storage units 70, 80, and 80X of the first to third embodiments described above may be implemented by combining them with each other. Also, each modification of the first to third embodiments described above may be implemented by combining them with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1…Electrical connection unit 20, 20X, 20Y, 20A, 20B, 20C… Electronic components (components to be connected) 23...Terminal (metal plate part) 23h... Mounting hole (1st mounting hole) 30…Connecting parts (parts to be connected) 31…Part 1 32…Second part (metal plate part) 32h... Mounting hole (1st mounting hole) 40... Bus bar (rope material) 40h... Mounting hole (2nd mounting hole) 41...First connection section 42...Second connection section 43...Extension part 51… Fastening member HS,70,70X,70Y,80,80´...Heat storage part 71...Metal plate 71A…First metal plate 71B…Second metal plate 71h... Mounting hole (3rd mounting hole) 81…Metal components 85… Block letters 86…hole 85a...Base 85b...peripheral wall part 85c…Space part 85h... Mounting hole (3rd mounting hole)

Claims

1. A base member having a first support surface, A component to be connected having a metal plate portion positioned in an upright position relative to the first support surface, When viewed from a first direction which is the thickness direction of the metal plate portion, the wiring material has a connecting portion that overlaps with the metal plate portion and is electrically connected to the metal plate portion, A metal member that overlaps with the metal plate portion when viewed from the first direction, An electrical connection unit equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The aforementioned cable member includes an extended portion that extends along the first support surface, The connection portion of the cable member is formed by bending a part of the cable member from the extended portion. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1.

3. The metal plate portion has a first mounting hole that penetrates the metal plate portion in the first direction, The connecting portion of the cable material has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, The metal member has a third mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, The components to be connected, the cable routing material, and the metal member are secured by fastening members passed through the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole, and the third mounting hole. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The component to be connected is an electronic component, The aforementioned metal plate portion is a terminal of the electronic component. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The metal member is a metal block whose thickness in the first direction is at least twice the thickness of the connecting portion of the cable member in the first direction. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The aforementioned metal member is a metal plate along the metal plate portion. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. The metal member is positioned on the opposite side of the metal plate portion from the connection portion of the cable member. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or claim 2.

Images