Braking device

Abstract

As an example, we aim to obtain a braking device that can reduce layout constraints in design. [Solution] The braking device according to the embodiment includes, as an example, an electric motor, a first ECU that drives the electric motor, a second ECU separate from the first ECU that controls the first ECU, a case that houses the first ECU and the second ECU, and a connector provided on the outer surface of the case and electrically connected to at least one of the first ECU and the second ECU.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a braking device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a braking device such as an electromechanical brake system (EMB) including an electric motor that drives a friction member and an electronic control unit (ECU) that controls driving of the electric motor is known. The electric motor is, for example, arranged between a brake caliper and the ECU. Further, the ECU of the braking device has, for example, a connector for being electrically connected to an on-vehicle ECU (Patent Document 1).

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 configuration, the electric motor is arranged such that terminals of the electric motor extend toward the ECU. Further, the connector is arranged such that terminals of the connector are substantially orthogonal to the ECU. As described above, the layout in the design of the braking device has restrictions for, for example, electrical connection, and the degree of freedom is low.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a braking device capable of reducing layout restrictions in design.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] As an example, a braking device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electric motor, a first ECU for driving the electric motor, a second ECU separate from the first ECU for controlling the first ECU, a case for housing the first ECU and the second ECU, and a connector provided on the outer surface of the case and electrically connected to at least one of the first ECU and the second ECU. Thus, as an example, since the first ECU and the second ECU are provided separately, the braking device can improve the degree of freedom (flexibility) in arranging the first ECU and the second ECU. Consequently, the braking device can reduce layout constraints in design compared to a case where one large ECU drives the electric motor and controls the drive circuit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic front view showing a braking device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the braking device of the above embodiment along the line F2-F2 in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the braking device of the above embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the braking device of the above embodiment along the line F4-F4 in Figure 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] An embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Note that in this specification, the components of an embodiment and their descriptions may be described using multiple expressions. The components and their descriptions are examples and are not limited by the expressions used herein. Components may also be identified by names different from those used herein. Furthermore, components may also be described using expressions different from those used herein.

[0009] In the following explanation, “suppress” is defined, for example, to prevent the occurrence of an event, action, or effect, or to reduce the degree of an event, action, or effect. Also, in the following explanation, “restrict” is defined, for example, to prevent movement or rotation, or to permit movement or rotation within a predetermined range while preventing movement or rotation beyond that predetermined range.

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic front view showing the braking device 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the braking device 10 of this embodiment along the line F2-F2 in Figure 1. The braking device 10 is a disc brake mounted on a vehicle 1 such as a four-wheeled automobile. Note that the braking device 10 is not limited to this example.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the braking device 10 of this embodiment includes a disc rotor 11 and an electro-mechanical brake (EMB) 12. The disc rotor 11 is an example of a rotating body.

[0012] The disc rotor 11 rotates integrally with the wheel of the vehicle 1 around the central axis Axd. The central axis Axd is, for example, the central axis of the axle, the central axis of the disc rotor 11, and the central axis of rotation of the disc rotor 11. Note that the central axis Axd is not limited to this example.

[0013] In this specification, for convenience, the axial, radial, and circumferential directions are defined. The axial direction is along the central axis Axd, the radial direction is perpendicular to the central axis Axd, and the circumferential direction is around the central axis Axd.

[0014] In this embodiment, the axial direction is approximately aligned with the width of the vehicle 1 and includes the inward direction Di and the outward direction Do shown in Figure 2. The inward direction Di is one direction along the central axis Axd and is an example of a first direction. The outward direction Do is the opposite direction to the inward direction Di and is an example of a second direction. For example, the inward direction Di is the direction toward the inside of the vehicle 1, and the outward direction Do is the direction toward the outside of the vehicle 1.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the disc rotor 11 has a rotor body 11a and a hat portion 11b. The rotor body 11a is formed in a disc shape that is substantially perpendicular to the central axis Axd. The hat portion 11b is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape and is coupled, for example, to the axle of the vehicle 1.

[0016] As shown in Figure 2, the EMB12 includes a caliper 21, a pair of brake pads 22, a rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23, a molded interconnect device (MID) 24, an electric motor 25, a rotation transmission mechanism 26, a locking device 27, a detection device 28, a first edge connector 31, a second edge connector 32, a first ECU 33, a second ECU 34, and a connector 35. The brake pads 22 are an example of friction members. The first ECU 33 may also be called a load drive ECU. The second ECU 34 may also be called a control ECU. The connector 35 may also be called a power connector.

[0017] The caliper 21 is, for example, a floating caliper. However, the caliper 21 may also be another type of caliper, such as an opposed caliper. The caliper 21 is positioned to straddle the rotor body 11a. The caliper 21 includes a mounting 41, a caliper body 42, and a piston 43.

[0018] The mounting 41 is fixed to a non-rotating part of the vehicle 1, such as a knuckle. The mounting 41 supports the brake pad 22 and the caliper body 42 so that they are axially movable. The caliper body 42 has a cylinder 45 and claws 46 as shown in Figure 2 and a bridge 47 as shown in Figure 1.

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the cylinder 45 is provided with a bore 48. The bore 48 penetrates through the cylinder 45 along the central axis Axc. The central axis Axc is the central axis of the bore 48, extending substantially parallel to the central axis Axd of the disc rotor 11. For this reason, the bore 48 opens at the end portion 45a of the cylinder 45 in the inward direction Di and the end portion 45b of the cylinder 45 in the outward direction Do. Note that the bore 48 may be a recess that opens at the end portion 45b.

[0020] The cylinder 45 has an inner peripheral surface 48a that defines the bore 48. The inner peripheral surface 48a is a cylindrical curved surface extending around the central axis Axc. The inner peripheral surface 48a faces toward the central axis Axc.

[0021] The claw 46 is spaced apart from the cylinder 45 in the outward direction Do. The bridge 47 connects the end portion of the cylinder 45 on the radially outer side and the end portion of the claw 46 on the radially outer side. The rotor main body 11a of the disc rotor 11 and the pair of brake pads 22 are arranged between the cylinder 45 and the claw 46.

[0022] The piston 43 is formed, for example, in a substantially cylindrical shape that is open in the inward direction Di. The piston 43 has an outer peripheral surface 43a. The outer peripheral surface 43a is a substantially cylindrical curved surface extending around the central axis Axc.

[0023] The piston 43 is fitted into the bore 48. A part of the piston 43 may be located outside the bore 48. The diameter of the outer peripheral surface 43a of the piston 43 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the inner peripheral surface 48a that defines the bore 48. For this reason, the piston 43 is movable in the axial direction relative to the caliper body 42 within the bore 48.

[0024] The pair of brake pads 22 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction. One of the pair of brake pads 22 comes into contact with the piston 43, for example. The other of the pair of brake pads 22 comes into contact with the claw 46, for example. The rotor main body 11a of the disc rotor 11 is arranged between the pair of brake pads 22.

[0025] The rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23 is, for example, a ball screw and has a rotating member 51, a linear motion member 52, and a plurality of balls 53. The rotating member 51 may also be called a bolt. The linear motion member 52 may also be called a nut. At least a portion of the rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23 is located in the bore 48.

[0026] The rotating member 51 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the central axis Axc. On the other hand, the linear motion member 52 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the central axis Axc. The rotating member 51 extends inside the linear motion member 52. The rotating member 51 and the linear motion member 52 are each located at least partially inside the piston 43.

[0027] For example, the rotating member 51 is provided with an external thread (bolt thread), and the linear motion member 52 is provided with an internal thread (nut thread). The external thread of the rotating member 51 and the internal thread of the linear motion member 52 are connected to each other via a plurality of balls 53. As a result, when the rotating member 51 rotates around the central axis Axc, the linear motion member 52 moves in the axial direction. The rotating member 51 and the linear motion member 52 may also directly mesh with each other.

[0028] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the braking device 10 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the MID 24 has a case 61 and a plurality of wirings 62. Note that the case 61 and the wirings 62 do not form the MID 24 and may be separate elements from each other.

[0029] The case 61 is made of, for example, synthetic resin. However, the case 61 may be made of other materials. The case 61 is formed in a box shape and is attached to the end 45a of the cylinder 45. For this reason, the case 61 is spaced inward Di from the caliper 21 and brake pad 22.

[0030] Inside the case 61, there is a mechanism room 65 and an ECU room 66. The mechanism room 65 and the ECU room 66 are separated from each other. However, the mechanism room 65 and the ECU room 66 may be in communication with each other.

[0031] Case 61 houses at least a portion of the rotation transmission mechanism 26, the locking device 27, and at least a portion of the detection device 28 in the mechanism chamber 65. The rotation transmission mechanism 26, the locking device 27, and the detection device 28 may each be located at least partially outside the case 61. Case 61 houses the first edge connector 31, the second edge connector 32, the first ECU 33, and the second ECU 34 in the ECU chamber 66.

[0032] The case 61 has a front surface 61a, a rear surface 61b, and a side surface 61c. The side surface 61c is an example of the outer surface of the case. In this embodiment, the names front surface 61a, rear surface 61b, and side surface 61c are for convenience only and do not limit their position, orientation, or mode of use.

[0033] The front 61a, rear 61b, and side 61c are the outer surfaces of the case 61 and are exposed to the outside of the case 61. The front 61a faces outward (Do). For example, the front 61a faces the caliper 21 and brake pad 22 with a gap between them. The rear 61b is located on the opposite side of the front 61a and faces inward (Di). The side 61c is provided at one end of the case 61 in the circumferential direction.

[0034] Case 61 further has an inner surface 65a defining a mechanism chamber 65 and an inner surface 66a defining an ECU chamber 66. The inner surface 65a is provided with various irregularities, for example, to support the locking device 27 and the detection device 28. The inner surface 66a is provided with various irregularities, for example, to support the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34. The first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 66a.

[0035] Multiple wirings 62 are provided in the case 61. For example, multiple wirings 62 are provided on the inner surface 66a of the case 61. At least one wiring 62 may also be provided on the front surface 61a, rear surface 61b, side surface 61c, and inner surface 65a.

[0036] The wiring 62 is a metal foil formed on the surface of the case 61, for example by plating. The wiring 62 may also include a conductor embedded inside the case 61, for example by insert molding. Furthermore, the wiring 62 may have a connector provided at its end.

[0037] The electric motor 25 is, for example, a three-phase brushless motor. However, the electric motor 25 may be of other types. The electric motor 25 has a motor body 71, a motor shaft 72, and motor terminals 73.

[0038] The motor body 71 includes, for example, a rotor, a stator, and a case housing the rotor and stator. The motor body 71 is located at least partially outside the case 61 and is mounted on the front surface 61a of the case 61. That is, the motor body 71 is located between the caliper 21 and the case 61. The motor body 71 may be located in other positions.

[0039] In the circumferential direction, the motor body 71 is positioned between the ends of the caliper 21. Therefore, the motor body 71 is axially covered by the caliper 21. For example, the caliper 21 can protect the motor body 71 from flying objects. Note that the motor body 71 does not need to be completely covered by the caliper 21.

[0040] The motor shaft 72 is coupled to the rotor of the motor body 71. The motor shaft 72 and the rotor of the motor body 71 may be formed as a single unit. The motor shaft 72 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the central axis Axm. The electric motor 25 rotates the motor shaft 72 around the central axis Axm.

[0041] The central axis Axm is, for example, the central axis of the motor shaft 72 and the rotor and stator of the motor body 71. In this embodiment, the central axis Axm extends substantially parallel to the central axes Axd and Axc. However, the central axis Axm may also extend in a direction intersecting the central axes Axd and Axc.

[0042] The motor shaft 72 and motor terminals 73 protrude inward Di from the motor body 71. That is, the motor terminals 73 extend approximately parallel to the motor shaft 72. Note that the direction in which the motor shaft 72 extends and the direction in which the motor terminals 73 extend may be different from each other.

[0043] The motor shaft 72 and motor terminals 73 pass through holes provided in the front surface 61a and are partially housed in the mechanism chamber 65 of the case 61. The motor terminals 73 are electrically connected, for example, to the stator of the motor body 71.

[0044] The rotation transmission mechanism 26 transmits the rotation of the motor shaft 72 to the rotating member 51. Figure 2 schematically shows the rotation transmission mechanism 26 with a dashed line. The rotation transmission mechanism 26 is, for example, a reduction gear having one or more gears. However, the rotation transmission mechanism 26 is not limited to this example and may be a speed increaser, timing belt, coupling, or other rotation transmission mechanism.

[0045] The locking device 27 is, for example, a solenoid actuator. The locking device 27 has a plunger 85, a solenoid 86, and a solenoid terminal 87. The plunger 85 extends, for example, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis Axm. The solenoid 86 drives the plunger 85, for example, by generating a magnetic field. The locking device 27 stops the rotation of at least one of the rotation transmission mechanism 26, the rotating member 51, and the motor shaft 72 by the driven plunger 85. The solenoid terminal 87 is electrically connected to the solenoid 86.

[0046] The detection device 28 includes, for example, a sensor 91, a bearing 92, and a sensor terminal 93. The sensor 91 is held, for example, on the inner surface 65a of the case 61. The bearing 92 allows the rotating member 51 to rotate around the central axis Axc relative to the sensor 91 and transmits axial force between the rotating member 51 and the sensor 91.

[0047] Sensor 91 receives an axial load from the rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23 via bearing 92 and detects the load. Sensor terminal 93 is electrically connected to sensor 91. Sensor 91 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected load from sensor terminal 93.

[0048] The first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are formed integrally with the case 61, for example, by insert molding. However, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are not limited to this example and may be attached to the case 61 or other parts.

[0049] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the braking device 10 of this embodiment along the line F4-F4 in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 4, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 each protrude from the inner surface 66a of the case 61. That is, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are provided on the inner surface 66a of the case 61.

[0050] In this embodiment, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 protrude from the inner surface 66a in substantially the same direction. In the example shown in Figure 4, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 protrude radially outward from the inner surface 66a. Alternatively, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 may protrude from the inner surface 66a in different directions.

[0051] The first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are spaced apart from each other. The first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 may be formed integrally. The first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are electrically connected to each other, for example, via wiring 62. The first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector may be electrically connected to each other by other means.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3, the first edge connector 31 is electrically connected to the motor terminal 73, solenoid terminal 87, and sensor terminal 93, for example, via wiring 62. For example, the motor terminal 73, solenoid terminal 87, and sensor terminal 93 each contact electrodes provided at the ends of wiring 62. The motor terminal 73, solenoid terminal 87, and sensor terminal 93 are not limited to this example and may be connected to a connector connected to wiring 62, for example.

[0053] The first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are separate ECUs. In this embodiment, the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are spaced apart from each other. However, the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 may be in contact with each other.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, the first ECU 33 includes a first substrate 101, a plurality of electronic components 102, and an ECU terminal 103. Note that the first ECU 33 is not limited to this example. The first substrate 101 is, for example, an electronic circuit board such as a printed circuit board.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3, the first substrate 101 has a plurality of planes 101a, 101b, and 101c. In other words, the first ECU 33 has a plurality of planes 101a, 101b, and 101c provided on the first substrate 101. Plane 101a or plane 101b is an example of the first plane.

[0056] Planes 101a, 101b, and 101c are each formed to be substantially flat. Plane 101a is the largest of the multiple plans 101a, 101b, and 101c provided on the first substrate 101. The area of ​​plane 101b is approximately equal to the area of ​​plane 101a.

[0057] Plane 101b is located on the opposite side of plane 101a. Plane 101c is the edge of the first substrate 101. That is, plane 101c is provided between the outer edge of plane 101a and the outer edge of plane 101b.

[0058] The electronic component 102 is mounted on the plane 101a. Alternatively, the electronic component 102 may be mounted on the plane 101b. Multiple electronic components 102 include, for example, transistors and capacitors. The first ECU 33 is provided with, for example, an inverter circuit including multiple electronic components 102.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, the ECU terminal 103 is provided, for example, at the end of the first substrate 101. The ECU terminal 103 is inserted into the slit of the first edge connector 31. This connects the first ECU 33 to the first edge connector 31.

[0060] The first ECU 33 is electrically connected to the motor terminal 73, for example, via the first edge connector 31 and wiring 62. For example, the inverter circuit of the first ECU 33 drives the electric motor 25 by applying drive power to the motor terminal 73.

[0061] The first ECU 33 is electrically connected to the solenoid terminal 87, for example, via the first edge connector 31 and wiring 62. The first ECU 33 generates a magnetic field in the solenoid 86 by passing current through the solenoid terminal 87.

[0062] The first ECU 33 is electrically connected to the sensor terminal 93, for example, via the first edge connector 31 and wiring 62. The first ECU 33 obtains an electrical signal from the sensor 91 corresponding to the axial load acting on the rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23.

[0063] At least one of the motor terminal 73, solenoid terminal 87, and sensor terminal 93 may be directly connected to the first ECU 33, for example, by press-fit. Alternatively, other conductive materials, such as busbars, may be interposed between the motor terminal 73, solenoid terminal 87, and sensor terminal 93 and the first ECU 33.

[0064] As shown in Figure 3, the first ECU 33 is positioned such that, for example, the plane 101a faces inward in the direction Di. In other words, the first ECU 33 is positioned such that the plane 101a is approximately perpendicular to the central axis Axc. Note that the positioning of the first ECU 33 is not limited to this example. The plane 101a may face in other directions.

[0065] As shown in Figure 4, the second ECU 34 includes a second substrate 111, an electronic component 112, and an ECU terminal 113. Note that the second ECU 34 is not limited to this example. The second substrate 111 is, for example, an electronic circuit board such as a printed circuit board.

[0066] The second substrate 111 has a plurality of planes 111a, 111b, 111c. In other words, the second ECU 34 has a plurality of planes 111a, 111b, 111c provided on the second substrate 111. Plane 111a or plane 111b is an example of the second plane.

[0067] Planes 111a, 111b, and 111c are each formed to be substantially flat. Plane 111a is the largest of the multiple plans 111a, 111b, and 111c provided on the second substrate 111. The area of ​​plane 111b is approximately equal to the area of ​​plane 111a.

[0068] Plane 111b is located on the opposite side of plane 111a. Plane 111c is the edge of the second substrate 111. That is, plane 111c is located between the outer edge of plane 111a and the outer edge of plane 111b.

[0069] The electronic component 112 is mounted on plane 111a. Alternatively, the electronic component 112 may be mounted on plane 111b. The electronic component 112 is, for example, a microcontroller. Other electronic components may also be mounted on planes 111a and 111b.

[0070] The ECU terminal 113 is provided, for example, at the edge of the second circuit board 111. The ECU terminal 113 is inserted into the slit of the second edge connector 32. This connects the second ECU 34 to the second edge connector 32.

[0071] The second ECU 34 is electrically connected to the first ECU 33, for example, via the second edge connector 32, wiring 62, and the first edge connector 31. The electronic component 112 (microcontroller) of the second ECU 34 controls the first ECU 33. The second ECU 34 also obtains an electrical signal from the sensor 91 via the first ECU 33, corresponding to the axial load acting on the rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23.

[0072] The second ECU 34 is positioned such that, for example, its plane 111a is approximately oriented in the circumferential direction. In other words, the second ECU 34 is positioned such that its plane 111a is approximately parallel to the central axis Axc. Furthermore, the direction in which the plane 101a of the first substrate 101 is oriented and the direction in which the plane 111a of the second substrate 111 is oriented intersect (orthogonal in this embodiment). Note that the arrangement of the second ECU 34 is not limited to this example. The plane 111a may be oriented in other directions.

[0073] The connector 35 protrudes approximately circumferentially from the side surface 61c of the case 61. That is, the connector 35 is provided on the outer surface of the case 61. The connector 35 may also be provided on the front surface 61a, the back surface 61b, or other parts of the case 61.

[0074] Figure 4 shows the projections of the first substrate 101 and the second substrate 111 in the outward direction Do. The outward direction Do is perpendicular to the plane 101a of the first substrate 101. As shown in Figure 4, the area of ​​the first substrate 101 in the projection in the outward direction Do is the area of ​​the plane 101a. On the other hand, the area of ​​the second substrate 111 in the projection in the outward direction Do is the area of ​​the plane 111c. Therefore, the areas of the first substrate 101 and the second substrate 111 in the projection in the outward direction Do are smaller than the sum of the areas of the plane 101a and the plane 111a.

[0075] On the other hand, the area of ​​the second substrate 111 in the projection direction perpendicular to plane 111a is the area of ​​plane 111a. Also, the area of ​​the first substrate 101 in the projection direction perpendicular to plane 111a of the second substrate 111 is the area of ​​plane 101c. Therefore, the areas of the first substrate 101 and the second substrate 111 in the projection direction perpendicular to plane 111a are smaller than the sum of the areas of plane 101a and plane 111a.

[0076] As shown in Figure 2, connector 35 is connected to, for example, harness H. Harness H is electrically connected to, for example, the ECU and battery of vehicle 1. Connector 35 sends and receives electrical signals to and from the ECU of vehicle 1 through harness H and is supplied with power from the battery.

[0077] The connector 35 protrudes from the side surface 61c at a position closer to the end 61e of the case 61 in the outward direction Do than to the end 61d of the case 61 in the inward direction Di. The connector 35 may also be closer to the end 61d than to the end 61e. In this embodiment, the end 61d of the case 61 in the inward direction Di is the back surface 61b.

[0078] In the circumferential direction, the connector 35 is located between the ends of the caliper 21. Therefore, the connector 35 is axially covered by the caliper 21. For example, the caliper 21 can protect the connector 35 from flying debris such as water, mud, and gravel. However, the connector 35 does not necessarily have to be completely covered by the caliper 21.

[0079] As shown in Figure 3, the connector 35 has a plurality of connector terminals 120. The connector terminals 120 are electrically connected to the second edge connector 32, for example, via wiring 62. Thus, the connector 35 is electrically connected to the second ECU 34 via wiring 62 and the second edge connector 32.

[0080] The connector terminal 120 may be electrically connected to the first edge connector 31, for example, via wiring 62. In this case, the connector 35 is electrically connected to the first ECU 33. Alternatively, the connector terminal 120 may be directly connected to the first ECU 33 or the second ECU 34, for example, by press-fit.

[0081] For example, the ECU of vehicle 1 inputs a control signal to the second ECU 34 through the harness H and connector 35. The second ECU 34 controls the first ECU 33 in accordance with the control signal. As a result, the first ECU 33 outputs drive power and drives the electric motor 25.

[0082] The electric motor 25 is driven by power supplied from the first ECU 33, causing the motor shaft 72 to rotate in one direction (forward rotation) around the central axis Axm. The rotation transmission mechanism 26 transmits the rotation, causing the rotating member 51 to rotate around the central axis Axc.

[0083] As the rotating member 51 rotates in one direction around the central axis Axc, the linear motion member 52 moves in a straight line outward Do. The piston 43 is pushed outward Do by the linear motion member 52 moving outward Do, pressing one brake pad 22 against the rotor body 11a. Due to the reaction force, the caliper body 42 moves inward Di relative to the mounting 41. As a result, the claw 46 presses the other brake pad 22 against the rotor body 11a.

[0084] The brake pads 22 press against the rotor body 11a of the rotating disc rotor 11, thereby braking the disc rotor 11. In this way, the braking device 10 brakes the wheel of the vehicle 1, which rotates integrally with the disc rotor 11.

[0085] The second ECU 34 drives the locking device 27 by controlling the first ECU 33. The solenoid 86 generates a magnetic field, which drives the plunger 85 and stops the rotation of at least one of the rotation transmission mechanism 26, the rotating member 51, and the motor shaft 72. This keeps the brake pad 22 pressed against the disc rotor 11. On the other hand, when the excitation of the solenoid 86 is stopped, the plunger 85 returns, and the rotation transmission mechanism 26, the rotating member 51, and the motor shaft 72 become rotatable again.

[0086] When the electric motor 25 rotates the motor shaft 72 in the opposite direction (reverse direction) around the central axis Axm, the rotating member 51 also rotates in the opposite direction around the central axis Axc. As a result, the linear motion member 52 moves inward in the direction Di, and the piston 43 also moves inward in the direction Di. The pressing force of the piston 43 against the brake pad 22 decreases, and the pressing of the brake pad 22 against the rotor body 11a by the piston 43 is released. As a result, the braking device 10 releases the brake.

[0087] In the braking device 10 according to the embodiment described above, the braking device 10 comprises an electric motor 25, a first ECU 33, a second ECU 34 separate from the first ECU 33, a case 61, and a connector 35. The first ECU 33 drives the electric motor 25. The second ECU 34 controls the first ECU 33. The case 61 houses the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34. The connector 35 is provided on the side surface 61c of the case 61 and is electrically connected to at least one of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34.

[0088] Since the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are provided separately, the braking device 10 can improve the degree of freedom (flexibility) of the arrangement of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34. For example, the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 can be arranged so as to intersect each other, or they can be stacked so as to be parallel to each other. Therefore, the braking device 10 can reduce layout constraints in design compared to the case where a microcontroller and inverter circuit are provided in one large ECU, and can suppress, for example, increasing in size in the radial or circumferential direction. In addition, the first ECU 33 is provided with an inverter circuit that drives an electric motor 25, for example. On the other hand, the second ECU 34 is provided with a microcontroller that controls the inverter circuit, for example. For example, the design of the circuit of the first ECU 33 may change depending on the output of the electric motor 25. On the other hand, the design of the second ECU 34 can control multiple types of circuits of the first ECU 33. Therefore, the second ECU 34 can be common to multiple types of braking devices 10, each equipped with a different first ECU 33. In other words, compared to the case where both the microcontroller and the inverter circuit are provided in a single ECU, if one of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 is changed, the other does not need to be redesigned, thus reducing the design man-hours. Furthermore, because the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are provided separately, the braking device 10 can suppress the influence of heat and noise from one of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 on the other.

[0089] The braking device 10 further comprises a first edge connector 31 and a second edge connector 32. The first edge connector 31 is provided on the inner surface 66a of the case 61. The second edge connector 32 is provided on the inner surface 66a of the case 61 and is electrically connected to the first edge connector 31. The first ECU 33 is connected to the first edge connector 31. The second edge connector 32 is connected to the second edge connector 32. For this reason, the braking device 10 can be easily assembled. Furthermore, the braking device 10 can easily obtain a first ECU 33 corresponding to the output of the electric motor 25 by, for example, replacing the first ECU 33 connected to the first edge connector 31. In other words, even if at least one of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 is changed, the case 61 does not need to be remade, and the man-hours required for design can be reduced.

[0090] The braking device 10 further includes wiring 62 provided in the case 61. The first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are electrically connected to each other via this wiring 62. Therefore, the braking device 10 can be made smaller compared to a case where the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are electrically connected by other wiring, such as a busbar.

[0091] The first ECU 33 has a first substrate 101 and a plane 101a with the largest area among a plurality of planes 101a, 101b, and 101c provided on the first substrate 101. The second ECU 34 has a second substrate 111 and a plane 111a with the largest area among a plurality of planes 111a, 111b, and 111c provided on the second substrate 111. The areas of the first substrate 101 and the second substrate 111 in projections perpendicular to plane 101a or plane 111a are smaller than the sum of the areas of plane 101a and plane 111a. Therefore, the braking device 10 can be miniaturized in projections perpendicular to plane 101a or plane 111a.

[0092] The braking device 10 further includes brake pads 22 configured to brake a disc rotor 11 that rotates around a central axis Axc by being pressed against the disc rotor 11. The case 61 is spaced inward Di along the central axis Axc from the brake pads 22. The connector 35 protrudes from the side surface 61c at a position closer to the end 61e of the case 61 in the outward direction Do, opposite to the end 61d of the case 61 in the inward direction Di. In the vehicle 1, various components such as the suspension and knuckles are located inward of the braking device 10 in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, the connector 35 is positioned to be spaced apart from these various components, making it easier to connect to the harness H. Thus, the braking device 10 can improve the workability of connecting the connector 35 to the harness H.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the braking device 10 has an EMB 12. The EMB 12 transmits the rotational motion of the electric motor 25 to the rotating member 51 of the rotary-to-linear motion conversion mechanism 23, converts the rotational motion of the rotating member 51 into linear motion of the linear motion member 52, and brakes the vehicle 1 by pressing the brake pads 22 against the disc rotor 11 in accordance with the linear motion of the linear motion member 52. However, the braking device 10 may have other brakes instead of the EMB 12.

[0094] For example, the braking device 10 may brake the vehicle 1 by pressurizing brake fluid in a fluid chamber connected to the wheel cylinder with a piston 43, and pressing the brake pads 22 against the disc rotor 11 with the pressure from the wheel cylinder. Alternatively, for example, the braking device 10 may brake the vehicle 1 by driving a pump with an electric motor 25, discharging brake fluid to the wheel cylinder with the pump, and pressing the brake pads 22 against the disc rotor 11 with the pressure from the wheel cylinder.

[0095] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first edge connector 31 and the second edge connector 32 are provided on the inner surface 66a of the case 61. However, the first edge connector 31 may be mounted on the second substrate 111, or the second edge connector 32 may be mounted on the first substrate 101.

[0096] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 are arranged such that the direction in which plane 101a faces and the direction in which plane 111a faces intersect each other. However, the arrangement of the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 is not limited to this example. For example, the first ECU 33 and the second ECU 34 may be arranged such that planes 101a and 111a are substantially parallel, and may also be aligned in the axial direction. In this case, at least a part of the first ECU 33 or the second ECU 34 is hidden. Therefore, the area of ​​the first substrate 101 and the second substrate 111 in projections in the direction perpendicular to plane 101a or plane 111a is smaller than the sum of the area of ​​plane 101a and the area of ​​plane 111a.

[0097] As an example, the braking device according to at least one embodiment described above includes an electric motor, a first ECU for driving the electric motor, a second ECU separate from the first ECU for controlling the first ECU, a case for housing the first ECU and the second ECU, and a connector provided on the outer surface of the case and electrically connected to at least one of the first ECU and the second ECU. Thus, as an example, since the first ECU and the second ECU are provided separately, the braking device can improve the degree of freedom (flexibility) of the arrangement of the first ECU and the second ECU. For example, the first ECU and the second ECU can be arranged so as to intersect each other, or they can be stacked so as to be parallel to each other. Accordingly, the braking device can reduce layout constraints in design compared to the case where one large ECU drives the electric motor and controls the drive circuit, and can prevent the device from becoming larger in the direction along the first ECU or the second ECU. Furthermore, the first ECU is equipped with a circuit for driving an electric motor, for example. On the other hand, the second ECU is equipped with a microcontroller or processing unit for controlling the said circuit, for example. For example, the design of the circuit of the first ECU may change depending on the output of the electric motor. On the other hand, the design of the second ECU can control multiple types of circuits of the first ECU. For this reason, the second ECU can be common to multiple types of braking devices equipped with different first ECUs. In other words, compared to a braking device where one ECU drives the electric motor and controls the drive circuit, if one of the first and second ECUs is changed, it is not necessary to redesign the other, thus reducing the man-hours required for design. Also, because the first and second ECUs are provided separately, the braking device can suppress the influence of heat and noise from one of the first and second ECUs on the other.

[0098] As an example, the braking device further comprises a first edge connector provided on the inner surface of the case, and a second edge connector provided on the inner surface of the case and electrically connected to the first edge connector, wherein the first ECU is connected to the first edge connector, and the second ECU is connected to the second edge connector. Therefore, as an example, the braking device can be easily assembled. Furthermore, the braking device can easily obtain a first ECU corresponding to the output of the electric motor by, for example, replacing the first ECU connected to the first edge connector. In other words, even if at least one of the first ECU and the second ECU is changed, the braking device does not need to be remade, and the man-hours required for design can be reduced.

[0099] The braking device described above, as an example, further comprises wiring provided in the case, and the first ECU and the second ECU are electrically connected to each other via the wiring. Therefore, as an example, the braking device can be made larger compared to a case where the first ECU and the second ECU are electrically connected by wiring separate from the case.

[0100] In the braking device described above, as an example, the first ECU has a first substrate and a first plane with the largest area among a plurality of planes provided on the first substrate, and the second ECU has a second substrate and a second plane with the largest area among a plurality of planes provided on the second substrate, and the areas of the first substrate and the second substrate in projections perpendicular to the first plane or the second plane are smaller than the sum of the areas of the first plane and the second plane. Therefore, as an example, the braking device can be miniaturized in projections perpendicular to the first plane or the second plane.

[0101] The braking device, as an example, further comprises a friction member configured to brake a rotating body by being pressed against a rotating body that rotates around a central axis, wherein the case is spaced apart from the friction member in a first direction along the central axis, and the connector protrudes from the outer surface at a position closer to the end of the case in a second direction opposite to the first direction than to the end of the case in the first direction. Therefore, as an example, since the friction member is generally positioned outside the ECU in the vehicle width direction, the first direction is inside in the vehicle width direction, and the second direction is outside in the vehicle width direction. Various components such as suspensions and knuckles are positioned inside the braking device in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, the connector is positioned spaced apart from these various components, making it easier to connect to the harness. Thus, the braking device can improve the workability of connecting the connector to the harness.

[0102] Although embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated above, these embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the configurations and shapes of each embodiment and modification can be partially replaced. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0103] 10...Braking device, 11...Disc rotor (rotating body), 22...Brake pad (friction member), 25...Electric motor, 31...First edge connector, 32...Second edge connector, 33...First ECU, 34...Second ECU, 35...Connector, 61...Case, 61c...Side (outer surface), 61d, 61e...End, 62...Wiring, 66a...Inner surface, 101...First substrate, 101a...Plane (first plane), 101b, 101c...Plane, 111...Second substrate, 111a...Plane (second plane), 111b, 111c...Plane, Axd...Central axis, Di...Inward direction (first direction), Do...Outward direction (second direction).

Claims

1. Electric motor and, A first ECU that drives the aforementioned electric motor, A second ECU, separate from the first ECU, controls the first ECU. A case housing the first ECU and the second ECU, A connector is provided on the outer surface of the case and is electrically connected to at least one of the first ECU and the second ECU. A braking device equipped with the following.

2. A first edge connector provided on the inner surface of the case, A second edge connector is provided on the inner surface of the case and is electrically connected to the first edge connector, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The first ECU is connected to the first edge connector, The second ECU is connected to the second edge connector, Braking device according to claim 1.

3. Wiring provided in the aforementioned case, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The first ECU and the second ECU are electrically connected to each other via the wiring. A braking device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The first ECU has a first substrate and a first plane having the largest area among a plurality of planes provided on the first substrate. The second ECU comprises a second substrate and a second plane having the largest area among a plurality of planes provided on the second substrate. The areas of the first substrate and the second substrate in projections perpendicular to the first plane or the second plane are smaller than the sum of the areas of the first plane and the second plane. Braking device according to claim 1.

5. A friction member configured to brake a rotating body by being pressed against it, which rotates around a central axis. Furthermore, it is equipped with, The case is spaced apart from the friction member in a first direction along the central axis, The connector protrudes from the outer surface at a position closer to the end of the case in the second direction opposite to the first direction than to the end of the case in the first direction, Braking device according to claim 1.

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