Vehicle heater device

The in-vehicle heater device addresses poor workability in conventional heater units by using a hook-shaped heater wire holder for easy electrical connections, improving assembly efficiency and reducing component damage.

JP2026136011APending Publication Date: 2026-08-25PANASONIC AUTOMOTIVE SYST CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025021897
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-13
Publication Date
2026-08-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional heater units face poor workability due to labor-intensive connection processes between the temperature control device, cord-shaped heater, and lead wire.

Method used

An in-vehicle heater device with a hook-shaped heater wire holding portion on a connecting plate that securely holds the heater wire, allowing easy electrical connection and integration with electrical components.

Benefits of technology

Improves work efficiency and reduces the risk of damage to components during electrical connections, enhancing the overall assembly process.

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Abstract

To provide an in-vehicle heater device that can improve work efficiency. [Solution] The in-vehicle heater device 1 comprises a heater wire 20 arranged on a base material 10 and a connecting plate 30 for electrically connecting the heater wire 20 to an electrical component. The connecting plate 30 has a hook-shaped heater wire holding portion 34 for holding the heater wire 20, and at least one of the heater wire holding portions 34 the heater wire 20 is held by the heater wire holding portion 34 so as to extend from one side of the heater wire holding portion 34 to the other side.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle heater device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a heater unit in which a temperature control device disposed on a protruding portion of a base material, a cord-shaped heater, and a lead wire are connected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional heater unit, when connecting the temperature control device, the cord-shaped heater, and the lead wire, there is a problem that the connection requires labor and the workability is poor.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides an in-vehicle heater device with excellent workability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An in-vehicle heater device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a heater wire disposed on a base material, and a connection plate for electrically connecting the heater wire and an electrical component. The connection plate has a hook-shaped heater wire holding portion for holding the heater wire, and in at least one of the heater wire holding portions, the heater wire is held by the heater wire holding portion so as to extend from one side to the other side of the heater wire holding portion.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] The in-vehicle heater device of the present disclosure has excellent workability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view showing an in-vehicle heater device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the connecting plate, sheet, harness, and heater wires, etc. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a partially enlarged plan view of the area indicated by the dashed line indicated by arrow III in Figure 2. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view showing line AA in Figure 3. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is another cross-sectional view showing the main body and the heater wire holder. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a plan view showing the main body and the heater wire holder. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a side view showing the main body and the heater wire holder. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view showing the line BB in Figure 5A. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the connecting plate. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view of the heater wire. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is a plan view showing a case where a heater wire with an exposed portion is held in a heater wire holder. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a plan view showing the sewing thread and heater wire. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a plan view showing arc-shaped sewing thread and arc-shaped heater wire. [Figure 8C] Figure 8C is another plan view showing arc-shaped sewing thread and arc-shaped heater wire. [Figure 8D] Figure 8D is a plan view showing the case where heater wires are arranged in multiple rows. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0010] Note that all the embodiments described below show comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, components, arrangement positions of components, connection forms, etc. shown in the following embodiments are just examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Also, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims are described as optional components.

[0011] Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. Therefore, for example, the scales etc. in each figure do not necessarily match. Also, in each figure, components having substantially the same configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0012] Also, in the following embodiments, expressions such as V-shaped are used. For example, V-shaped not only means completely V-shaped, but also means substantially V-shaped, that is, for example, including an error of about several percent. Also, V-shaped means V-shaped within the range where the effects according to the present disclosure can be achieved. The same applies to other expressions using "shape".

[0013] (Embodiment) <Configuration> Hereinafter, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8D.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an in-vehicle heater device 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a connection plate 30, a seat 50, a harness 60, a heater wire 20, etc. FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged plan view of the two-dot chain line indicated by arrow III in FIG. 2. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 3. FIG. 4B is another cross-sectional view showing a main body portion 31 and a heater wire holding portion 34. In (a) of FIG. 4B, a V-shaped or U-shaped connection plate 30 is shown. In (b) of FIG. 4B, a heater wire holding portion 34 having a bent portion 35 is shown. In (a) and (b) of FIG. 4B, for the sake of simplifying the drawing, the illustration of the seat 50 and the solder 39 is omitted. The same applies to the figures after FIG. 5A. FIG. 5A is a plan view showing the main body portion 31 and the heater wire holding portion 34. FIG. 5B is a side view showing the main body portion 31 and the heater wire holding portion 34. FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 5A. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the connection plate 30. (a) of FIG. 6 shows a component having a wiring shape obtained by punching a sheet metal. (b) of FIG. 6 shows the connection plate 30. FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the heater wire 20. FIG. 7B is a plan view showing a case where the heater wire 20 having an exposed portion is held by the heater wire holding portion 34. FIG. 8A is a plan view showing a sewing thread 25 and a heater wire 20. FIG. 8B is a plan view showing an arc-shaped sewing thread 25 and an arc-shaped heater wire 20. FIG. 8C is another plan view showing an arc-shaped sewing thread 25 and an arc-shaped heater wire 20. FIG. 8D is a plan view showing a case where the heater wires 20 are arranged in multiple rows side by side.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the in-vehicle heater device 1 can be applied to a seat heater that is built into a seat body of a vehicle or the like and can warm a seat cushion, a seat back, etc. of the seat body 5. The in-vehicle heater device 1 is arranged, for example, at a position corresponding to the buttocks and thighs of an occupant sitting on the seat body. For example, when the in-vehicle heater device 1 is provided in the seat cushion, it can generate heat by the electric power supplied by a power supply unit or the like when the occupant sits on the seat surface of the seat cushion and warm the seat surface. The power supply unit is a power supply circuit that supplies electric power to the heater wire 20. The power supply unit can adjust the current supplied to the heater wire 20 by being controlled by a control unit (not shown).

[0016] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 can also be applied to radiant heaters located in the center console, dashboard, under panel, roof, and door trim. In this case, it can warm the occupants' feet, arms, etc.

[0017] Such an in-vehicle heater device 1 comprises a base material 10, a heater wire 20, and a connecting plate 30.

[0018] The base material 10 is a nonwoven fabric, a fabric-like foamed resin such as urethane, or other material formed into a sheet from which elasticity, flexibility, and ductility are present. A heater wire 20 is placed on one surface of the base material 10.

[0019] The heater wire 20 is a conductive wire. The conductive wire is a conductive stranded wire consisting of multiple strands formed from an alloy containing, for example, silver and copper. The heater wire 20 is electrically connected to the harness 60 via a connecting plate 30. The heater wire 20 can generate heat using electricity supplied from the power supply unit.

[0020] The heater wire 20 is arranged on one surface of the base material 10 such that it passes through each part of the base material 10 via the connecting plate 30 and returns to the connecting plate 30. Specifically, a portion of the heater wire 20 is fixed to the base material 10, while the remaining portion of the heater wire 20 is not fixed to the surface of the base material 10. In other words, the heater wire 20 includes a fixed wire 21 fixed to the base material 10 and an unfixed wire 22 that is not fixed to the base material 10. The unfixed wire 22 is not fixed to the base material 10 but is held by the connecting plate 30.

[0021] In this embodiment, the heater wires 20 are arranged on one surface of the base material 10 so as to form a zigzag pattern, and are fixed by sewing with sewing thread 25 as shown in Figure 8A, which will be described later. Specifically, the fixed wires 21 are fixed to the base material 10 by sewing with sewing thread 25. On the other hand, the non-fixed wires 22 are not sewn with sewing thread 25.

[0022] The heater wire 20 may also be fixed to one surface of the base material 10 by means other than the sewing thread 25, such as adhesive or double-sided tape. Alternatively, the heater wire 20 may be fixed to one surface of the base material 10 by heat welding. Furthermore, the sewing thread 25, adhesive, or double-sided tape may be included as components of the vehicle-mounted heater device 1.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the heater wire 20 is electrically connected to the harness 60 via the connecting plate 30. The harness 60 consists of a bundle of lead wires 61 and an outer cover that encloses the lead wires 61. Each of the lead wires 61 is electrically connected to the connecting plate 30. The harness 60 is supplied with current from the power supply unit, and therefore can supply current to the heater wire 20. The harness 60 is an example of an electrical component. Note that some of the electrical components electrically connected to the connecting plate 30 are omitted in Figure 2.

[0024] The connecting plate 30 is a conductive metal plate for electrically connecting the heater wire 20 to an electrical component. The connecting plate 30 has a main body portion 31, a support portion 32, a terminal 33, and a heater wire holding portion 34.

[0025] The main body 31 is a sheet metal cut into a predetermined shape. The main body 31 is provided with a plurality of support parts 32, a plurality of terminals 33, and a plurality of heater wire holders 34.

[0026] The support portion 32 is a member for supporting electrical components. In this embodiment, a pair of support portions 32 support the lead wire 61 by sandwiching it between them. The pair of support portions 32 are support pieces that rise up from the plate-shaped main body portion 31 so as to face each other. Since the harness 60 is provided with multiple lead wires 61, the main body portion 31 is provided with multiple pairs of support portions 32.

[0027] Terminal 33 is electrically connected to the lead wire 61 by solder or the like. Specifically, the terminal 33 and / or the main body 31 are electrically connected to the lead wire 61 by solder or the like, with the conductor 62 of the lead wire 61 sandwiched between the terminal 33 and the main body 31. Since the harness 60 is provided with multiple lead wires 61, the main body 31 is provided with multiple terminals 33.

[0028] As shown in Figures 2 to 4A, the heater wire holder 34 is hook-shaped to hold the heater wire 20. Specifically, the heater wire holder 34 is a tongue-shaped piece extending from the edge of the main body 31. As shown in Figure 3, the heater wire holder 34 is bent relative to the main body 31 and folded over the main body 31. As a result, the heater wire 20 is held in the connecting plate 30 while hooked onto the heater wire holder 34. At this time, the non-fixed wire 22 of the heater wire 20 is held in the heater wire holder 34 so as to intersect with the direction in which the heater wire holder 34 extends from the edge of the main body 31 and extends from one side of the heater wire holder 34 to the other side. The statement that the heater wire 20 extends from one side to the other of the heater wire holder 34 includes not only cases where the heater wire 20 extends from one end edge of the heater wire holder 34 to the other end edge, but also cases where it extends from one end edge of the heater wire holder 34 toward the other end edge. Therefore, the heater wire 20 is defined as "extending from one side to the other of the heater wire holder 34" if it extends at least from one end edge of the heater wire holder 34 to the through hole 34a (exposed).

[0029] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4A, the heater wire holder 34 may have an inclined guide portion 34b that extends from its tip so as to be inclined relative to the main body 31. In other words, the inclined guide portion 34b may extend away from the heater wire holder 34 relative to the main body 31. In this case, when hooking the non-fixed wire 22 of the heater wire 20 onto the heater wire holder 34, the inclined guide portion 34b can guide the non-fixed wire 22. This makes it easier to hook the non-fixed wire 22 onto the heater wire holder 34.

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4B(a), the heater wire holder 34 may be positioned to overlap with the main body 31, so that the connecting plate 30 is formed in a V-shape or U-shape by the heater wire holder 34 and the main body 31. In this case, since a force acts on the non-fixed wire 22 to return it to the base material 10, it can be expected that the non-fixed wire 22 will catch on the heater wire holder 34 and maintain its held state.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4B(b), a bent portion 35 may be formed at the tip of the heater wire holder 34 so as to approach the main body 31. In this case, an insertion hole 36 may be formed in the main body 31 at a position corresponding to the bent portion 35. The bent portion 35 may then be inserted into the insertion hole 36 while the heater wire holder 34 is holding the non-fixed wire 22. In this case, since the non-fixed wire 22 is held by both the bent portion 35 and the heater wire holder 34, it becomes difficult for the non-fixed wire 22 to come out of the heater wire holder 34.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3 and 4A, the heater wire holder 34 may have a through hole 34a formed in a position opposite to the main body 31. The non-fixed wire 22 may be held in the heater wire holder 34 so as to be exposed through the through hole 34a. In this case, the non-fixed wire 22 is exposed through the through hole 34a. Therefore, the non-fixed wire 22 can be electrically connected to the connecting plate 30 by solder 39 or the like. In this embodiment, the non-fixed wire 22 and the heater wire holder 34 are electrically connected by solder 39 at a position corresponding to the through hole 34a.

[0033] The through-hole 34a may be formed to have a polygonal shape in plan view, as shown in Figure 3. Alternatively, it may be provided to have a circular shape in plan view, as shown in Figure 5A, which will be described later. Note that the shape of the through-hole 34a is not limited to a polygonal or circular shape. Other known shapes can also be used for the through-hole 34a.

[0034] As shown in Figures 5A to 5C, the heater wire holder 34 may have flared ends 34c. Specifically, both ends 34c on one side and the other side of the heater wire holder 34 are flared. Both ends 34c of the heater wire holder 34 extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the heater wire 20 extends. In other words, both ends 34c are curved upward relative to the heater wire 20. Both ends 34c are set away from the heater wire 20 so that they are less likely to come into contact with the heater wire 20.

[0035] As shown in Figure 5B, the heater wire holder 34 may have an arc shape when viewed from the side. In this case, the heater wire 20 is held in the heater wire holder 34, making it difficult for the heater wire 20 to come out of the heater wire holder 34. Furthermore, the main body 31 may also have an arc-shaped recess 31c at a position corresponding to the heater wire holder 34. The heater wire holder 34 and the recess 31c make it easier to hold the heater wire 20. In addition, the ends 31d on both sides of the recess 31c may have a flared shape so as to correspond to the ends 34c on both sides of the heater wire holder 34.

[0036] In the connecting plate 30, the main body 31, the heater wire holding part 34, the support part 32, and the terminal 33 are integrally formed. When manufacturing the connecting plate 30, for example, by punching out a sheet metal into a predetermined shape, a wiring-shaped component is obtained as shown in Figure 6(a). By bending the obtained wiring-shaped component and removing the gate (the thin part shown in Figure 6(b), i.e., the unnecessary connecting part), the connecting plate 30 shown in Figure 6(b) is obtained, in which the main body 31, the heater wire holding part 34, the support part 32, and the terminal 33 are formed. Integral construction means that the main body 31, the heater wire holding part 34, the support part 32, and the terminal 33 cannot be separated without destruction.

[0037] The above describes the configuration of the vehicle-mounted heater device 1, but the following may also be included in the configuration of the vehicle-mounted heater device 1.

[0038] For example, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the heater wire 20 may have a conductive wire 20b and a covering material 20a that covers the conductive wire 20b. The heater wire 20 may include a covered portion that is covered by the covering material 20a and an exposed portion that is not covered by the covering material 20a. In this case, the non-fixed wire 22 of the heater wire 20 may include the exposed portion. The conductive wire 20b is also a stranded wire consisting of multiple strands formed of an alloy containing, for example, silver and copper.

[0039] As shown in Figure 7B, the exposed portion may be held by the heater wire holder 34 so as to extend from one side to the other. The exposed portion may be formed in the portion corresponding to the through hole 34a of the heater wire holder 34. In other words, the exposed portion may be formed only on the portion of the non-fixed wire 22 exposed from the through hole 34a of the heater wire holder 34.

[0040] In this embodiment, since a covering material 20a is placed at the tip of the non-fixed wire 22, the multiple strands constituting the conductive wire 20b are less likely to separate.

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the in-vehicle heater device 1 may also have a sheet 50. The sheet 50 may be a resin sheet that is more flexible than the connecting plate 30. The sheet 50 is made of a heat-resistant material that prevents the base material 10 from melting due to the heat transmitted through the sheet 50 when the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 are electrically connected. In other words, it is sufficient that the base material 10 does not melt when the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 are electrically connected, and the sheet 50 may melt. The sheet 50 may be a resin sheet such as urethane, for example.

[0042] As shown in Figure 4A, the sheet 50 may be placed between the connecting plate 30 and the base material 10. Furthermore, the surface 31a and the back surface 31b of the connecting plate 30 may be sandwiched by the sheet 50. A portion of the surface 31a of the connecting plate 30 may be exposed. In other words, the sheet 50 does not have to be placed on a portion of the surface 31a of the connecting plate 30. The harness 60 and the heater wire 20 can be electrically connected at the portion of the surface 31a of the connecting plate 30 that is exposed.

[0043] In this embodiment, the connecting plate 30 may be sandwiched between two sheets 50. Specifically, one sheet 50, having openings 51 formed in locations corresponding to the support portion 32, terminal 33, and heater wire holding portion 34, may be placed on the front surface 31a side of the connecting plate 30, and another sheet 50 may be placed on the back surface 31b side of the connecting plate 30, thereby sandwiching the connecting plate 30.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8A, in the vehicle-mounted heater device 1, the sewing thread 25 may include a fixing thread 25a that fixes the fixed wire 21 to the base material 10 by sewing, and a loose sewing thread 25b that loosely stitches the non-fixed wire 22 to the base material 10 without fixing it.

[0045] The blind stitching thread 25b may be sewn in an arc shape to the base material 10, as shown in Figure 8B. Alternatively, the blind stitching thread 25b may be sewn in a polygonal shape to the base material 10, or in a straight line.

[0046] The fixing thread 25a may have a boundary connection portion 25c connected to the boundary with the loose stitching thread 25b, as shown in Figure 8C. The boundary connection portion 25c may be curved in a direction that causes the non-fixed line 22 to protrude from the fixed line 21. The direction of protrusion is a predetermined desired direction. In this way, the boundary connection portion 25c fixes the fixed line 21 of the heater wire 20 to a desired shape, thereby guiding the direction in which the non-fixed line 22 protrudes to a desired direction.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the in-vehicle heater device 1 may also have a temperature detection unit 70. The temperature detection unit 70 is an example of an electrical component.

[0048] The temperature detection unit 70 may be positioned on the base material 10 near or in contact with the heater wire 20. In this embodiment, the temperature detection unit 70 may be positioned so as to overlap the heater wire 20 which is located on the surface of the base material 10. The temperature detection unit 70 may be electrically connected to the heater wire 20 and the harness 60 via the connecting plate 30.

[0049] The temperature detection unit 70 may be turned ON or OFF depending on the temperature of the heater wire 20. The temperature detection unit 70 may also output the detected temperature to the control unit. This allows the control unit to control the current supplied to the heater wire 20 based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 70. The temperature control unit can be implemented using a microcomputer, a switch element, or the like.

[0050] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device may have a configuration as shown in Figure 8D. As shown in Figure 8D, multiple heater wires 20 may be arranged in multiple rows on the base material 10. In this case, the power supplied to each of the multiple heater wires 20 may be individually controlled by the control unit. In this case, the non-fixed wires 22 of the heater wires 20 that are located closer to the connecting plate 30 among the multiple rows of heater wires 20 may be arranged so that the amount they protrude from the fixed wires 21 is smaller.

[0051] <Effects and Effects> Next, the operation and effects of the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 in this embodiment will be described.

[0052] As described above, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of the Technology 1 according to this embodiment comprises a heater wire 20 arranged on a base material 10 and a connecting plate 30 for electrically connecting the heater wire 20 to an electrical component. The connecting plate 30 has a hook-shaped heater wire holding portion 34 for holding the heater wire 20, and at least one of the heater wire holding portions 34 holds the heater wire 20 so as to extend from one side of the heater wire holding portion 34 to the other side.

[0053] In conventional technology, for example, when connecting the tip of a heater wire to a connecting plate, the tip of the heater wire is inserted into an insertion hole formed in the connecting plate, and the heater wire and the connecting plate are electrically connected by solder. For example, if the heater wire is made up of stranded wire consisting of multiple strands, the tips of the multiple strands may spread out and become separated, making it difficult to electrically connect the heater wire and the connecting plate. For this reason, conventional technology has limitations in terms of workability.

[0054] However, according to this embodiment, since the heater wire 20 can be hooked onto the heater wire holding part 34, the electrical connection between the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 can be easily made.

[0055] Therefore, this vehicle-mounted heater device 1 can improve work efficiency.

[0056] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 2 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 1. In this case, a sheet 50 is placed between the connecting plate 30 and the base material 10, and the sheet 50 is made of a heat-resistant material that prevents the base material 10 from melting due to the heat transmitted through the sheet 50 when the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 are electrically connected.

[0057] According to this, if the connecting plate 30 is made of a hard material such as a metal plate, by placing the sheet 50 between the connecting plate 30 and the base material 10, compared to a configuration in which the connecting plate 30 is placed directly on the base material 10, the possibility of the edges of the connecting plate 30 coming into contact with the base material 10 and being damaged can be suppressed. In addition, when electrically connecting the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 with solder 39 or the like, the melting of the base material 10 due to heat can be suppressed.

[0058] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 3 according to this embodiment is the same as the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 2. In this case, the surface 31a and the back surface 31b of the connecting plate 30 are sandwiched between the sheet 50.

[0059] According to this, if the connecting plate 30 is made of a hard material such as a metal plate, by placing the sheet 50 between the connecting plate 30 and the base material 10, compared to a configuration in which the connecting plate 30 is directly placed on the base material 10, the possibility of the edges of the connecting plate 30 coming into contact with the base material 10 and being damaged can be suppressed. In addition, since the connecting plate 30 is sandwiched between the sheet 50 and fixed to the base material 10, the base material 10 and the connecting plate 30 can be constructed as an integral part. As a result, it is possible to suppress the heater wire 20 from coming into contact with any part of the connecting plate 30, making it less likely for the heater wire 20 to break.

[0060] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 4 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 2. In this case, the surface 31a and the back surface 31b of the connecting plate 30 are sandwiched between the sheet 50, and a part of the surface 31a of the connecting plate 30 is exposed.

[0061] According to this, if the connecting plate 30 is made of a hard material such as a metal plate, by placing the sheet 50 between the connecting plate 30 and the base material 10, compared to a configuration in which the connecting plate 30 is placed directly on the base material 10, the possibility of the edges of the connecting plate 30 coming into contact with the base material 10 and being damaged can be suppressed. The sheet 50 can cover the connecting plate 30 while exposing a part of the surface 31a of the connecting plate 30 so that the sheet 50 and the heater wire 20 can be electrically connected. As a result, contact between the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 can be suppressed, making it less likely for the heater wire 20 to break.

[0062] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 5 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 2 to 4. In this case, the sheet 50 is a resin sheet that is more flexible than the connecting plate 30.

[0063] According to this, the sheet 50 can be flexibly attached to the connecting plate 30 according to its shape, thus more reliably achieving an integrated structure between the base material 10 and the connecting plate 30 using the sheet 50. In addition, it is possible to suppress the heater wire 20 from coming into contact with the connecting plate 30, and even if the heater wire 20 comes into contact with the sheet 50, the heater wire 20 is less likely to break.

[0064] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 6 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5. In this case, the heater wire 20 includes a fixed wire 21 fixed to the base material 10 and a non-fixed wire 22 not fixed to the base material 10, and the non-fixed wire 22 is held in the heater wire holding part 34 so as to extend from one side of the heater wire holding part 34 to the other side.

[0065] According to this, the non-fixed wire 22 can be held in the heater wire holding part 34, making it difficult for the non-fixed wire 22 to separate from the heater wire holding part 34.

[0066] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 7 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 6. In this case, the heater wire 20 has a conductive wire 20b and a covering material 20a that covers the conductive wire 20b, and the heater wire 20 includes a covered portion covered by the covering material 20a and an exposed portion not covered by the covering material 20a, and the non-fixed wire 22 includes an exposed portion, and the exposed portion is held by the heater wire holding portion 34 so as to extend from one side of the heater wire holding portion 34 to the other side.

[0067] According to this, since the exposed portion is held by the heater wire holder 34, the exposed portion and the heater wire holder 34 can be electrically connected.

[0068] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 8 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 7. In this case, the connecting plate 30 has a main body portion 31 and a heater wire holding portion 34 that is bent relative to the main body portion 31.

[0069] According to this, the heater wire 20 can be hooked onto the heater wire holding part 34, so the heater wire holding part 34 can hold the heater wire 20.

[0070] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 9 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in Technology 8. In this case, the heater wire holding portion 34 has a through hole 34a formed at a position opposite to the main body portion 31.

[0071] According to this design, the heater wire 20, which is hooked onto the heater wire holder 34, can be exposed through the through hole 34a. Therefore, the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 can be easily electrically connected through the through hole 34a. This suppresses electrical connection problems between the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30.

[0072] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 10 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in Technology 9. In this case, the heater wire 20 is held in the heater wire holder 34 so as to be exposed from the through hole 34a, and the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 are electrically connected by solder 39 at a position corresponding to the through hole 34a.

[0073] According to this, the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 can be electrically connected by solder 39 through the through hole 34a. Therefore, electrical connection problems between the heater wire 20 and the connecting plate 30 can be suppressed.

[0074] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 11 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 8 to 10. In this case, the connecting plate 30 further includes terminals 33 for electrically connecting to electrical components, and the main body 31, the heater wire holding part 34, and the terminals 33 are integrally configured.

[0075] This approach helps to suppress the increase in the number of parts. As a result, it can suppress the increase in assembly man-hours, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0076] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 12 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 8 to 11. In this case, the heater wire holding portion 34 is arranged to overlap with the main body portion 31, so that the connecting plate 30 is formed in a V-shape or U-shape by the heater wire holding portion 34 and the main body portion 31.

[0077] According to this, the heater wire holder 34 can hold the heater wire 20 with a simple structure.

[0078] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 13 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 8 to 11. In this case, the heater wire holding portion 34 has an inclined guide portion 34b that extends from the tip so as to be inclined with respect to the main body portion 31.

[0079] According to this, when hooking the heater wire 20 onto the heater wire holder 34, the inclined guide portion 34b can guide the heater wire 20. This makes it easier to hook the heater wire 20 onto the heater wire holder 34. Therefore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 can improve work efficiency.

[0080] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 14 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 8 to 11. In this case, a bent portion 35 is formed at the tip of the heater wire holding portion 34 so as to approach the main body portion 31, and an insertion hole 36 is formed in the main body portion 31 at a position corresponding to the bent portion 35 into which the bent portion 35 is inserted.

[0081] According to this, when the heater wire 20 is hooked onto the heater wire holder 34, the bent portion 35 can prevent the heater wire 20 from coming loose, making it difficult for the heater wire 20 to come out of the heater wire holder 34.

[0082] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 15 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in Technology 6 or 7. In this case, the fixed wire 21 is fixed to the base material 10 by sewing with sewing thread 25, while the non-fixed wire 22 is not sewn with sewing thread 25.

[0083] According to this, a protrusion (slack) that becomes a non-fixed wire 22 can be formed in the heater wire 20. Therefore, it becomes easier to pull out the heater wire 20 in order to hold it in the heater wire holder 34.

[0084] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 16 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in Technology 15. In this case, the sewing thread 25 has a fixing thread 25a that fixes the fixed wire 21 to the base material 10 by sewing, and a loose sewing thread 25b that loosely stitches the non-fixed wire 22 to the base material 10 without fixing it.

[0085] According to this, the length of the heater wire 20 and the length of the sewing thread 25 can be made equal, making it easier to manufacture the vehicle-mounted heater device 1.

[0086] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 17 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in Technology 16. In this case, the blind stitching thread 25b is blind stitched in an arc shape to the base material 10.

[0087] According to this, the length of the heater wire 20 and the length of the sewing thread 25 can be made more equal, making it easier to manufacture the vehicle-mounted heater device 1.

[0088] Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 of Technology 18 according to this embodiment is the vehicle-mounted heater device 1 described in Technology 16. In this case, the empty stitching thread 25b is sewn in an arc shape to the base material 10, and the fixed thread 25a has a boundary connection portion 25c connected to the boundary with the empty stitching thread 25b, and the boundary connection portion 25c is curved in a direction that causes the non-fixed line 22 to protrude from the fixed line 21.

[0089] According to this, by providing the boundary connection portion 25c, the non-fixed wire 22 of the heater wire 20 can be guided to protrude in a desired direction. For example, the heater wire 20 placed on the base material 10 can be guided to protrude towards the pattern side or towards the connection plate 30 side.

[0090] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 19 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 6, 7, 15-18. In this case, heater wires 20 are arranged in multiple rows on the base material 10, and the non-fixed wires 22 of the heater wires 20 that are located closer to the connecting plate 30 among the multiple rows of heater wires 20 have a smaller protrusion amount relative to the fixed wires 21.

[0091] According to this design, the amount of protrusion can be increased for non-fixed wires 22 that are further away from the connecting plate 30, so that even non-fixed wires 22 located at a distance can be easily held by the heater wire holder 34. Furthermore, since multiple non-fixed wires 22 can be held by the heater wire holder 34, the heater wires 20 can be bundled together. As a result, for example, if the heater wires are in a parallel circuit, it is expected that the work efficiency of the worker will be improved.

[0092] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 20 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technologies 1 to 19. In this case, the heater wire holding portion 34 has a flared end portion 34c.

[0093] According to this, even if the heater wire 20 comes into contact with the heater wire holder 34 while the heater wire holder 34 is holding the heater wire 20, the contact portion has a smooth flared shape, making it less likely for the heater wire 20 to break.

[0094] Furthermore, the in-vehicle heater device 1 of Technology 21 according to this embodiment is the in-vehicle heater device 1 described in any one of Technology 1 to 20. In this case, the connecting plate 30 is a conductive metal plate.

[0095] According to this, the connecting plate 30 can function as a terminal for electrically connecting the heater wire 20 and the harness 60.

[0096] (Other variations) The in-vehicle heater device relating to this disclosure has been described above based on the embodiments described above, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications to the embodiments that a person skilled in the art can conceive of may also be included in the scope of this disclosure, as long as they do not depart from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0097] Furthermore, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the embodiments without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0098] This disclosure can be used, for example, for radiant heaters located in the center console, dashboard, under panel, roof, and door trim of a vehicle, as well as seat heaters located in seats. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] 1. Vehicle-mounted heater device 10 Base material 20 Heater wires 20a Covering material 20b conductive wire 21 Fixed line 22 Non-fixed line 25 Sewing thread 25a Fixing thread 25b Sewing thread 25c Boundary connection section 30 connection plates 31 Main body 31a surface 31b back side 33 terminals 34 Heater wire holder 34a through hole 34b Inclined guide 34c end 35. Bending section 36 Insertion holes 39 Handa 50 sheets 60 Wiring Harness (Electrical Components) 70 Temperature detection unit (electrical component)

Claims

1. Heater wires placed on the substrate, The system includes a connecting plate for electrically connecting the heater wire and the electrical components, The connecting plate has a hook-shaped heater wire holder portion for holding the heater wire, In at least one of the heater wire holding portions, the heater wire is held in the heater wire holding portion such that it extends from one side of the heater wire holding portion to the other side. Vehicle-mounted heater device.

2. A sheet is placed between the connecting plate and the substrate. The sheet is made of a heat-resistant material that prevents the base material from melting due to the heat transmitted through the sheet when the heater wire and the connecting plate are electrically connected. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 1.

3. The front surface and the back surface of the connecting plate are sandwiched between the sheets. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 2.

4. The front surface and the back surface of the connecting plate are sandwiched between the sheets. A portion of the aforementioned surface is exposed from the sheet. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned sheet is a resin sheet that is more flexible than the aforementioned connecting plate. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 2.

6. The heater wire includes a fixed wire fixed to the substrate and an unfixed wire not fixed to the substrate. The non-fixed wire is held in the heater wire holder so as to extend from one side of the heater wire holder to the other side. The vehicle heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The heater wire comprises a conductive wire and a covering material that covers the conductive wire. The heater wire includes a covered portion covered by the covering material and an exposed portion not covered by the covering material. The non-fixed wire includes the exposed portion, The exposed portion is held by the heater wire holder so as to extend from one side to the other side of the heater wire holder. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 6.

8. The connecting plate has a main body and a heater wire holding portion that is bent relative to the main body. The vehicle heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The heater wire holder portion has a through hole formed in a position opposite to the main body portion. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 8.

10. The heater wire is held in the heater wire holder so as to be exposed through the through hole. The heater wire and the connecting plate are electrically connected by solder at positions corresponding to the through holes. The vehicle heater device according to claim 9.

11. The connecting plate further comprises terminals for electrically connecting to the electrical components, The main body, the heater wire holder, and the terminal are integrally configured. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 8.

12. Because the heater wire holder is positioned to overlap with the main body, the connecting plate is formed in a V-shape or U-shape by the heater wire holder and the main body. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 8.

13. The heater wire holding portion has an inclined guide portion that extends from its tip so as to be inclined relative to the main body portion. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 8.

14. A bent portion is formed at the tip of the heater wire holder portion, which is bent to approach the main body portion. The main body has an insertion hole formed at a position corresponding to the bent portion, into which the bent portion is inserted. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 8.

15. The aforementioned fixing wire is fixed to the base material by sewing with sewing thread. The aforementioned non-fixed wire is not sewn by the aforementioned sewing thread. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 6.

16. The sewing thread comprises a fixing thread that secures the fixed wire to the base material by sewing, and a blind stitching thread that blind stitches the non-fixed wire to the base material without securing it. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 15.

17. The aforementioned thread is sewn in an arc shape to the base material. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 16.

18. The aforementioned thread is used to sew the base material in an arc shape. The fixing thread has a boundary connection portion connected to the boundary with the loose stitching thread, The boundary connection portion is curved in a direction that causes the non-fixed line to protrude from the fixed line. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 16.

19. Multiple rows of heater wires are arranged on the substrate. The non-fixed heater wires among the multiple rows of heater wires that are positioned closer to the connecting plate protrude less from the fixed wires. The vehicle-mounted heater device according to claim 6.

20. The heater wire holder has a flared end. The vehicle heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

21. The connecting plate is a conductive metal plate. The vehicle heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Heater unit and sheet

    JP2011198652A