Connection device and electrical module

Abstract

To improve the reliability of an electrical circuit of a connection device.SOLUTION: A connection device 100 includes a housing 8, a first connection terminal 11, a second connection terminal, an electromagnetic relay 2, a detection unit 3, and a plurality of bus bars. The housing 8 has a base 82 with a first surface 801 having an insertion slot 803 and a second surface 802 on the opposite side in one direction D1. The first connection terminal 11 is configured to be connected to a mating connection terminal inserted in the insertion slot 803. The second connection terminal is provided on the base 82 and configured to be connected to an external circuit. The electromagnetic relay 2 has a plurality of relay terminals including a plurality of contact side terminals. The detection unit 3 detects the state of the connection between the connection device 100 and a mating connector. The plurality of bus bars is provided on the base 82. The plurality of bus bars includes a plurality of first bus bars that connects between the first connection terminal 11 and the second connection terminal and the plurality of contact side terminals, respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a connection device and an electrical module, and more particularly to a connection device for connecting between a mating connector and an external circuit, and an electrical module including the connection device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a power supply side connector. The power supply side connector is connected to a DC power supply. The power supply side connector can be fitted to an equipment side connector connected to an electrical device. The power supply side connector has two power supply terminals corresponding to two power receiving terminals of the equipment side connector, a switch member movable between a connection position and a release position, and a restriction mechanism. The connection position is a position for electrically connecting the power supply terminals to the DC power supply. The release position is a position for releasing the connection between the power supply terminals and the DC power supply. The restriction mechanism restricts the movement of the switch member from the release position to the connection position before the power supply side connector and the equipment side connector are fitted to each other.

[0003] An internal contact and a relay are provided inside the power supply connector. When the switch member is moved from the release position to the connection position, the internal contact is closed, and when the internal contact is closed, the relay is operated to electrically connect the power supply and the two power supply terminals. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-171191 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure aims to improve the reliability of electrical paths in a connection device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A connection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a connection device for connecting between a mating connector and an external circuit. The connection device includes a housing, a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, an electromagnetic relay, a detection unit, and a plurality of bus bars. The housing has a first surface having an insertion port into which a mating connection terminal of the mating connector can be inserted along one direction, a second surface opposite to the first surface in the one direction, and a base on which the second surface is provided. The first connection terminal is configured to be connected to the mating connection terminal inserted into the insertion port. The second connection terminal is provided on the base and configured to be connected to the external circuit. The electromagnetic relay has a plurality of relay terminals including a plurality of contact side terminals, is accommodated in the housing, and opens and closes an electric path between the plurality of contact side terminals. The detection unit detects a connection state between the connection device and the mating connector. The plurality of bus bars are provided on the base. The plurality of bus bars include a plurality of first bus bars that respectively connect the first connection terminal and the plurality of contact side terminals and between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal and between the first connection terminal and the plurality of contact side terminals.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an electric module including a plurality of the connection devices, the electric module further including a power cable connected to the second connection terminals of the plurality of connection devices. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage that it is possible to improve the reliability of the electrical path of the connection device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a connection device and a mating connector according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the above connection device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the above connecting device. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a main part of the above connecting device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the above connection device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a terminal board which is a material for a plurality of bus bars in the connection device of the above embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a manufacturing method of the above connecting device during the process. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the above connecting device. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an electromagnetic relay used in the above connecting device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic relay shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the electromagnetic relay. [Figure 13] 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 14] Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the connecting device in the state where the mating connector is connected, taken along the line XIII-XIII in Fig. 2. Fig. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the connecting device when the mating connector is connected, taken along the line XIII-XIII in Fig. 2. [Figure 15] 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XV-XV in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram of a circuit including the above connection device. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship of a circuit including the above connection device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an electric module equipped with the above connecting device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a connection device according to the first modification. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the above connecting device. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a main part of the above connecting device. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the above connecting device. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a main part of the above connecting device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The connection device and the electric module according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiment described below is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiment described below can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. In addition, each figure described in the embodiment described below is a schematic diagram, and the ratio of the size and thickness of each component in the figure does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio.

[0011] (1) Overview 1, the connection device 100 is configured to be fitted into a mating connector 9 and to be electrically connected to the fitted mating connector 9. The mating connector 9 is connected to, for example, an electric device 990. The connection device 100 is also configured to be electrically connected to an external circuit 980 (see FIG. 17). The connection device 100 is a device for electrically connecting between the mating connector 9 (electrical device 990) and the external circuit 980.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the connection device 100 of this embodiment includes a housing 8, a first connection terminal 11, a second connection terminal 12, an electromagnetic relay 2, a detection unit 3, and a plurality of bus bars 4.

[0013] The housing 8 here is a hollow rectangular box, and has a first surface 801 and a second surface 802 on both sides in the direction D1. The first surface 801 has a power receiving insertion port (insertion port) 803 into which a mating connection terminal 93 of a mating connector 9 can be inserted along the direction D1. The housing 8 has a base 82. The second surface 802 is one surface of the base 82 in the direction D1 (the lower surface in FIG. 1) and is located opposite to the first surface 801 in the direction D1.

[0014] The first connection terminal 11 is configured to be connected to a mating connection terminal 93. The first connection terminal 11 is accommodated in a housing 8 here (see FIGS. 2 and 3), and is connected to the mating connection terminal 93 in a state in which the mating connector 9 is fitted into the connection device 100.

[0015] The second connection terminal 12 is configured to be connected to an external circuit 980. The second connection terminal 12 is provided on the base 82 of the housing 8 (see FIG. 5).

[0016] The electromagnetic relay 2 is accommodated in a housing 8. As shown in Fig. 9, the electromagnetic relay 2 has a plurality of (four in this case) relay terminals 20. The plurality of relay terminals 20 includes a plurality of (two in this case) contact side terminals 21. The electromagnetic relay 2 has therein an electric circuit connecting the plurality of contact side terminals 21, and is configured to be able to open and close this electric circuit.

[0017] The detector 3 detects the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9 .

[0018] The multiple bus bars 4 are provided on the base 82. The multiple bus bars 4 include multiple first bus bars 41. The multiple first bus bars 41 respectively connect between the first connection terminal 11 and the second connection terminal 12 and the multiple contact side terminals 21 (i.e., between the first connection terminal 11 and one contact side terminal 21, and between the second connection terminal 12 and the other contact side terminal 21).

[0019] 18, the electric module 200 includes a plurality of connection devices 100 and a power cable 210. The power cable 210 is connected to the second connection terminals 12 of the plurality of connection devices 100. The plurality of second connection terminals 12 are connected to an external circuit 980 via the power cable 210.

[0020] According to the connection device 100 and the electric module 200 of this embodiment, in the connection device 100, the first connection terminal 11 and the second connection terminal 12 and the multiple contact side terminals 21 are connected by multiple first bus bars 41. Therefore, for example, compared to a case where the first connection terminal 11 and the second connection terminal 12 and the multiple contact side terminals 21 are connected by a pattern conductor of a printed circuit board, it is possible to improve the mechanical strength of the electric path of the connection device 100 and to improve the reliability of the electric path of the connection device 100.

[0021] Furthermore, according to the connection device 100 and the electric module 200 of this embodiment, since the connection device 100 is equipped with the detection unit 3, it is possible to control the on / off of the electromagnetic relay 2, for example, based on the connection state detected by the detection unit 3.

[0022] (2)Details Hereinafter, the connection device 100 and the electric module 200 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1 to 18. Note that in Figures 5 to 7, the base 82 is coarsely hatched, and the bus bars 4 and the connection portions 4100, 4200 are finely hatched, simply for ease of viewing.

[0023] (2.1) Mating Connector As described above, the connection device 100 is mated with the mating connector 9 and is electrically connected to the mated mating connector 9.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 1, the mating connector 9 is a plug-type connector. The mating connector 9 is connected to an electric device 990 (see Figs. 16 and 17). Although not particularly limited, the electric device 990 to which the mating connector 9 is connected is, for example, a server. The server is disposed, for example, in a data center or the like. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the server may be, for example, a terminal (computer) used in edge computing.

[0025] 1, the mating connector 9 includes a mating housing 90, two mating connection terminals 93, a mating grounding terminal 94, and a mating cable 95. In the following, when distinguishing between the two mating connection terminals 93, they will be referred to as mating connection terminals 931 and 932.

[0026] The mating housing 90 has a body 91 and a protruding wall 92. The body 91 is formed in a prismatic shape having a first surface and a second surface on both sides in the height direction. The shape of each of the first surface and the second surface is, for example, a hexagonal shape (a rectangular shape with two inclined corners). The protruding wall 92 protrudes in the height direction of the body 91 from the periphery of the first surface of the body 91 (see FIG. 14A). Four ribs 921 are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the protruding wall 92, extending along the protruding direction of the protruding wall 92. In addition, a rectangular retaining hole 922 is formed in one wall portion of the protruding wall 92, penetrating this wall portion in the thickness direction.

[0027] The two mating connection terminals 93 and the mating ground terminal 94 are provided on a first surface of the body 91. The two mating connection terminals 93 and the mating ground terminal 94 protrude along the protruding direction of the protruding wall 92. Each of the two mating connection terminals 93 and the mating ground terminal 94 has a flat blade shape. The two mating connection terminals 93 are terminals (plug blades) for receiving power, and the mating ground terminal 94 is a terminal (plug blade) for grounding.

[0028] The mating cable 95 is provided on the second surface of the body 91. The two mating connection terminals 93 and the mating ground terminal 94 are connected to three electric wires (two voltage wires and a ground wire) included in the mating cable 95 within the body 91 of the mating housing 90, respectively.

[0029] (2.2) Connection device 1 to 5, the connection device 100 includes a housing 8, two first connection terminals 11, two second connection terminals 12, two electromagnetic relays 2, a detection unit 3, and a plurality of bus bars 4. As shown in Fig. 5, the connection device 100 further includes two third connection terminals 13, a fourth connection terminal 14, and a fifth connection terminal 15. As shown in Fig. 4, the connection device 100 further includes an inner body 5.

[0030] In the following, when the two first connection terminals 11 are to be distinguished, they will be written as first connection terminals 111 and 112. When the two second connection terminals 12 are to be distinguished, they will be written as second connection terminals 121 and 122. When the two third connection terminals 13 are to be distinguished, they will be written as third connection terminals 131 and 132. When the two electromagnetic relays 2 are to be distinguished, they will be written as first electromagnetic relay 201 and second electromagnetic relay 202.

[0031] The housing 8 has a first surface 801 and a second surface 802 that are opposite to each other in the direction D1. The two first connection terminals 11 are arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the direction D1.

[0032] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, one direction D1 may be referred to as the "first direction D1" or the "up-down direction". Furthermore, a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and in which the two first connection terminals 11 are arranged may be referred to as the "second direction D2" or the "left-right direction". Furthermore, a direction perpendicular to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be referred to as the "third direction D3" or the "front-rear direction". For convenience of explanation, arrows indicating the first direction D1 to the third direction D3 are appropriately shown in each drawing.

[0033] (2.2.1) Housing As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing 8 has a cover 81 and a base 82.

[0034] The cover 81 is in the shape of a rectangular box with one surface (surface on the second surface 802 side) open in the first direction D1 (vertical direction). The cover 81 is made of, for example, resin. The cover 81 has one top wall 811 and four side walls 812. The four side walls 812 protrude from the periphery of the top wall 811 in the thickness direction of the top wall 811. The four side walls 812 form the front, back, left and right surfaces of the housing 8. For convenience of explanation, below, the direction from the opening of the cover 81 toward the top wall 811 in the first direction D1 (vertical direction) may be referred to as "upper", and the opposite direction may be referred to as "lower".

[0035] A recess 813 having a shape (hexagonal circumferential groove shape) into which the protruding wall 92 of the mating connector 9 fits is formed on one side of the upper surface of the top wall 811 in the third direction D3 (front-rear direction). Furthermore, a through hole 814 penetrating the top wall 811 in the thickness direction is formed on the other side of the upper surface of the top wall 811 in the third direction D3. For ease of explanation, below, the direction from the recess 813 to the through hole 814 in the third direction D3 (front-rear direction) may be referred to as the "front" and the opposite direction as the "rear".

[0036] A hollow hexagonal prism-shaped base portion 815 is formed on the upper surface of the top wall 811 so as to be surrounded by the recess 813 .

[0037] As shown in Fig. 2, a notch 816 is formed in the center of the front end of the recess 813 in the second direction D2 (the lower end of Fig. 2) from the bottom surface to the front side surface of the recess 813. In addition, a notch 817 is formed in the front end of the recess 813 on one side in the second direction D2 (the left side in Fig. 2) from the bottom surface to the front side surface of the recess 813.

[0038] The base portion 815 is formed with two power receiving insertion ports (insertion ports) 803 into which two mating connection terminals 93 of the mating connector 9 can be inserted, and a grounding insertion port 804 into which a mating grounding terminal 94 of the mating connector 9 can be inserted. With the protruding wall 92 of the mating connector 9 fitted into the recess 813, the two mating connection terminals 93 are inserted into the two power receiving insertion ports 803, and the mating grounding terminal 94 is inserted into the grounding insertion port 804. Hereinafter, when distinguishing between the two power receiving insertion ports 803, they are referred to as power receiving insertion ports 8031 ​​and 8032.

[0039] Here, the upper surface of the top wall 811 constitutes a first surface 801 of the housing 8 (the first surface 801 having an insertion opening 803 into which the mating connection terminal 93 of the mating connector 9 can be inserted along one direction D1).

[0040] Four grooves 818 are formed on the side surface of the base portion 815 so as to extend in the first direction D1 at positions corresponding respectively to the four ribs 921 of the mating connector 9. The four ribs 921 are inserted into the four grooves 818.

[0041] The central portion of the upper surface of the top wall 811 is a stepped portion that is higher in the first direction D1 (protrudes upward) than the peripheral portion. The recess 813, the through hole 814, and the base portion 815 described above are formed within this stepped portion.

[0042] 1, each of the four side walls 812 is a generally rectangular plate extending in the first direction D1. An exposure hole 8120 for exposing a connector 36 (described later) is formed in an upper portion of the front side wall 812 of the four side walls 812.

[0043] Furthermore, in the lower surface of the cover 81, a total of four screw holes are formed in the corners between the adjacent side walls 812.

[0044] As shown in Fig. 4, the base 82 is a rectangular plate having a thickness in the first direction D1. The base 82 is made of, for example, resin. Through holes 821 are formed in the four corners of the base 82 at positions corresponding to the screw holes of the cover 81. First screws 83 (see Fig. 3) are passed through the through holes 821 from below, and the first screws 83 are fastened to the screw holes of the cover 81, thereby joining the cover 81 and the base 82 together.

[0045] (2.2.2) Connection terminals As shown in Figures 3 to 5 and 8, the connection device 100 has two first connection terminals 111, 112, two second connection terminals 121, 122, two third connection terminals 131, 132, a fourth connection terminal 14, and a fifth connection terminal 15.

[0046] The two first connection terminals 111, 112 are configured to be connected to two mating connection terminals 931, 932 of the mating connector 9, respectively.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4, each of the two first connection terminals 11 has a blade receiving portion 113 and a lead portion 114.

[0048] 2, each first connection terminal 11 is disposed within the housing 8 such that the blade receiving portion 113 is located below the corresponding power receiving insertion port 803. Specifically, the first connection terminal 111 is disposed within the housing 8 such that the blade receiving portion 113 is located below the power receiving insertion port 8031, and the first connection terminal 112 is disposed within the housing 8 such that the blade receiving portion 113 is located below the power receiving insertion port 8032.

[0049] The blade receiving portion 113 sandwiches and contacts the mating connection terminal 93 of the mating connector 9 inserted into the power receiving insertion port 803 , and is thereby electrically connected to the mating connection terminal 93 .

[0050] The lead portion 114 is connected to the blade receiving portion 113. The lead portion 114 extends downward from an edge of the blade receiving portion 113 in the second direction D2.

[0051] 5, the two second connection terminals 121, 122 are provided on the base 82 of the housing 8. The two second connection terminals 121, 122 are configured to be connected to an external circuit 980. The external circuit 980 is, for example, a power supply circuit. The power supply circuit is, for example, a DC / DC converter that converts and outputs a direct current voltage from the power supply unit 960. The voltage output from the power supply circuit to the connection device 100 (second connection terminals 121, 122) is not particularly limited, but is, for example, about DC 350 to 450 V.

[0052] As described later, the two first connection terminals 111, 112 are respectively connected to the two second connection terminals 121, 122 via the multiple first bus bars 41 and the two electromagnetic relays 2. Therefore, when the two mating connection terminals 93 of the mating connector 9 (electrical device 990) are respectively connected to the two first connection terminals 111, the external circuit 980 (power supply circuit) is connected to the two second connection terminals 121, 122, and the two electromagnetic relays 2 are turned on, power can be supplied from the power supply circuit to the electrical device 990. On the other hand, when at least one of the two electromagnetic relays 2 is turned off, power supply from the power supply circuit to the electrical device 990 is prohibited.

[0053] The two third connection terminals 131, 132 are configured to be connected to an external control circuit 970. The control circuit 970 switches between supplying and stopping power E1 (excitation voltage; see FIG. 16) between the two third connection terminals 131, 132.

[0054] As described later, the two third connection terminals 131, 132 are respectively connected to the two coil terminals 28 of the electromagnetic relay 2 via the multiple second bus bars 42. Therefore, by switching between supplying and stopping the power E1 between the two third connection terminals 131, 132, the supplying and stopping of the power E1 to the electric path between the two coil terminals 28 in the electromagnetic relay 2 is switched between excitation and non-excitation of the coil 251 connected between the two coil terminals 28, and the electromagnetic relay 2 is switched between on and off.

[0055] The fourth connection terminal 14 is configured to be connected to a mating ground terminal 94 of the mating connector 9 .

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the fourth connection terminal 14 has a blade receiving portion 143 and a lead portion 144.

[0057] 2, the fourth connection terminal 14 is disposed within the housing 8 such that the blade receiving portion 143 is located below the ground insertion port 804. The blade receiving portion 143 sandwiches and contacts the mating ground terminal 94 of the mating connector 9 inserted into the ground insertion port 804, thereby being electrically connected to the mating ground terminal 94.

[0058] The lead portion 144 is connected to the blade receiving portion 143. The lead portion 144 extends downward from an edge of the blade receiving portion 143 in the second direction D2.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 5, the fifth connection terminal 15 is provided on the base 82 of the housing 8. As shown in Fig. 16, the fifth connection terminal 15 is configured to be connected to an external ground wire (ground).

[0060] As described below, the fourth connection terminal 14 is connected to the fifth connection terminal 15 via the third bus bar 43. Therefore, when a ground wire is connected to the fifth connection terminal 15 and a mating ground terminal 94 of a mating connector 9 (electrical device 990) is connected to the fourth connection terminal 14, the mating ground terminal 94 is connected to ground.

[0061] (2.2.3) Electromagnetic Relay The connection device 100 has two electromagnetic relays 2 (a first electromagnetic relay 201 and a second electromagnetic relay 202). The first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202 have the same configuration.

[0062] The electromagnetic relay 2 is a so-called hinge-type relay. As shown in Fig. 9 to Fig. 11, the electromagnetic relay 2 includes a contact device 22, a drive unit 25, and a plurality (four) of relay terminals 20. The four relay terminals 20 include two contact side terminals 21 and two coil terminals 28. In the following, when the two contact side terminals 21 are to be distinguished from each other, they are referred to as contact side terminals 211 and 212. When the two coil terminals 28 are to be distinguished from each other, they are referred to as coil terminals 281 and 282.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 10, the contact device 22 includes a movable conductive portion 23 (second conductive portion) and a fixed conductive portion 24 (first conductive portion).

[0064] The movable conductive part 23 (second conductive part) has an extending part 231 (second extending part) and an end part 232 (second end part).

[0065] The extending portion 231 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The extending portion 231 has a length along one direction S1 (upward in FIG. 10). That is, the extending portion 231 of the movable conductive part 23 is provided so as to extend in one direction S1. The extending portion 231 has elasticity. The extending portion 231 is connected to the end portion 232 at its tip in the one direction S1. The extending portion 231 and the end portion 232 are formed integrally.

[0066] The end portion 232 includes a movable contact M10. The movable contact M10 is a rivet contact. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the movable contact M10 may be formed integrally with the extension portion 231 from the same material.

[0067] The fixed conductive portion 24 (first conductive portion) has an extending portion 241 (first extending portion) and an end portion 242 (first end portion).

[0068] The extension portion 241 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The extension portion 241 has a length along one direction S1. That is, the extension portion 241 is provided so as to extend in the one direction S1. The extension portion 241 is connected to the end portion 242 at its tip in the one direction S1.

[0069] The end portion 242 includes a fixed contact F10. The end portion 242 has a curved shape as if folded back from a tip 2420 of the end portion 242 in one direction S1. The fixed contact F10 is present at the folded back portion of the end portion 242, and faces the movable contact M10.

[0070] The end portion 242 has a curved portion 2422. The curved portion 2422 has a curved shape. The curved portion 2422 extends from a tip 2420 of the end portion 242 in a direction opposite to the one direction S1 (downward in FIG. 10). The fixed contact F10 exists on the curved portion 2422.

[0071] A portion of the curved portion 2422 between the tip 2420 of the end 242 and a position facing the movable contact M10 is curved so as to approach the movable contact M10 in the direction opposite to the one direction S1. Also, a portion of the curved portion 2422 between the position facing the movable contact M10 and the tip 2423 is curved so as to move away from the movable contact M10 as it approaches the tip 2423. In short, the folded portion of the end 242 is curved in a substantially C-shape when viewed from the side.

[0072] The fixed conductive portion 24 is a clad material. That is, the fixed contact F10 is pressed against a base material 240 that constitutes the main body of the fixed conductive portion 24. However, this is not limited thereto, and the fixed contact F10 may be integrally formed from the same material as the base material 240.

[0073] The driving unit 25 has a coil 251 , an armature 252 , a card 253 , an iron core 254 , a coil bobbin 255 , a yoke (first yoke) 256 , a hinge spring 257 , and a transmission unit 258 .

[0074] Coil bobbin 255 is formed in a cylindrical shape with flanges on both ends. Coil 251 is made of a conductive wire wound around coil bobbin 255. Iron core 254 is disposed inside coil bobbin 255. Yoke 256 is formed with an L-shaped cross section by a first wall portion having a hole through which a first end of iron core 254 is inserted, and a second wall portion extending in the height direction of coil bobbin 255.

[0075] The armature 252 has a first portion facing the second end of the iron core 254 and a second portion substantially perpendicular to the first portion, and is formed with an L-shaped cross section. The second portion of the armature 252 faces a second wall portion of the yoke 256. The armature 252 is supported by the yoke 256 so as to be swingable about an intermediate portion between the first and second portions.

[0076] The hinge spring 257 is in contact with the middle portion of the armature 252 and applies an elastic force to the middle portion of the armature 252. The hinge spring 257 applies an elastic force to the armature 252 in a direction in which the second portion of the armature 252 moves toward the second wall portion of the yoke 256.

[0077] The two coil terminals 281, 282 are electrically connected to both ends of the coil 251. As shown in FIG. 9, one end of the coil terminal 281 protrudes to the outside of the case 27 through a through hole 2708 formed in the base 2701. One end of the coil terminal 282 protrudes to the outside of the case 27 through a through hole 2709 formed in the base 2701. The two coil terminals 281, 282 are electrically connected to a control circuit 970. The control circuit 970 supplies power E1 (excitation voltage) between the two coil terminals 281, 282. That is, when a current flows between the two coil terminals 281, 282, the coil 251 is energized.

[0078] When the coil 251 is not energized (non-excited state), the elastic force applied to the armature 252 by the hinge spring 257 brings the second portion of the armature 252 into contact with the second wall portion of the yoke 256, and the armature 252 is held in a state in which the first portion of the armature 252 is separated from the iron core 254. At this time, the movable contact M10 is in an open position separated from the fixed contact F10 (see FIG. 10).

[0079] When the coil 251 is energized (excited state), a first portion of the armature 252 is attracted to the iron core 254 by a magnetic field generated by the coil 251, and the first portion is displaced, thereby changing the posture of the armature 252. In response to the change in posture of the armature 252, the card 253 is pushed by the second portion of the armature 252 via the transmission unit 258 and displaced, and the card 253 drives the movable conductive unit 23. As a result, the movable contact M10 moves from the open position to the closed position and comes into contact with the fixed contact F10 (see FIG. 11).

[0080] The contact-side terminal 211 is electrically and mechanically connected to the movable conductive part 23. The contact-side terminal 212 is electrically and mechanically connected to the fixed conductive part 24.

[0081] When the movable contact M10 is in a closed position in contact with the fixed contact F10 (see FIG. 11), an electric path is formed between the two contact side terminals 211, 212, and the two contact side terminals 211, 212 are conductive. When the movable contact M10 is in an open position away from the fixed contact F10 (see FIG. 10), the electric path between the two contact side terminals 211, 212 is interrupted, and the two contact side terminals 211, 212 are insulated from each other. In short, the electromagnetic relay 2 opens and closes the electric path between the multiple (two) contact side terminals 211, 212.

[0082] The electromagnetic relay 2 further includes two permanent magnets 26 (see FIG. 12), a case 27, and a second yoke 29.

[0083] 10 and 12, the case 27 of the contact device 22 has a case body 270, two insertion portions 271, and a plurality of wall portions 272. The case 27 is formed of, for example, resin. The case 27 has electrical insulation properties. The case body 270 houses the movable conductive portion 23, the fixed conductive portion 24, the driving portion 25, and the two permanent magnets 26.

[0084] Case body 270 includes base 2701 and cover 2702. Base 2701 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. Cover 2702 is formed in a box shape with one side open. Cover 2702 is attached to base 2701 such that the opening is covered by base 2701.

[0085] The multiple wall portions 272 protrude from the base 2701 to the inside of the cover 2702. The extending portion 231 of the movable conductive portion 23, the extending portion 241 of the fixed conductive portion 24, and the contact side terminals 211, 212 are disposed between the multiple wall portions 272. The contact side terminals 211, 212 are fixed to the case 27 by being inserted between the multiple wall portions 272.

[0086] 9, one end (the lower end in FIG. 10) of the contact side terminal 211 protrudes to the outside of the case 27 through a through hole 2706 formed in the base 2701. Similarly, one end (the lower end in FIG. 10) of the contact side terminal 212 protrudes to the outside of the case 27 through a through hole 2707 formed in the base 2701.

[0087] As shown in Fig. 12, the two insertion portions 271 are provided inside the cover 2702 of the case body 270. Each insertion portion 271 is a space. Each of the two insertion portions 271 has one open surface (the lower surface in Fig. 10). That is, each insertion portion 271 has a shape surrounded by five surfaces. The five surfaces that define the insertion portion 271 include three surfaces of the cover 2702 and two surfaces of a containing wall 2711 having an L-shaped cross section that is connected to the inner surface of the cover 2702.

[0088] 12, one permanent magnet 26 is disposed in each of the two insertion portions 271. Each of the two permanent magnets 26 is, for example, a neodymium magnet. Hereinafter, when it is necessary to distinguish between the two permanent magnets 26, they will be referred to as permanent magnets 261 and 262.

[0089] The two permanent magnets 261, 262 are aligned in a direction (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 10, a vertical direction in FIG. 12) perpendicular to both the direction along one direction S1 and the direction in which the fixed contact F10 and the movable contact M10 are aligned. The fixed contact F10 and the movable contact M10 are located between the two permanent magnets 261, 262.

[0090] The two permanent magnets 261, 262 are arranged so that the opposite poles face each other. That is, the two permanent magnets 261, 262 are arranged so that the N pole of one permanent magnet 261 faces the S pole of the other permanent magnet 262. The two permanent magnets 261, 262 are arranged so that a magnetic field is generated in a direction from the front of the paper to the back of the paper in Fig. 10. In Fig. 12, the magnetic field generated by the two permanent magnets 261, 262 is shown typically by dotted lines.

[0091] Therefore, for example, when a current flows between the fixed contact F10 and the movable contact M10 in a direction from the movable contact M10 toward the fixed contact F10 (from left to right in FIG. 10), a Lorentz force acts on this current in one direction S1 (upward in FIG. 10). For example, when the movable contact M10 in contact with the fixed contact F10 moves away from the fixed contact F10, an arc may occur between the movable contact M10 and the fixed contact F10. A Lorentz force acts on this arc in one direction S1 (upward in FIG. 10). Therefore, the Lorentz force extends this arc upward in FIG. 10, facilitating extinction.

[0092] Each permanent magnet 26 is positioned within the insertion portion 271 by being supported by a restricting piece provided on the upper end of the wall portion 272, for example.

[0093] The second yoke 29 is formed in a U-shape. The second yoke 29 has two side portions 291 and a connecting portion 292 that connects the two side portions 291. The second yoke 29 is disposed on a path of the magnetic flux generated by the two permanent magnets 26.

[0094] The side portions 291 are shaped like a rectangular plate. Each side portion 291 is located inside the corresponding insertion portion 271. The two side portions 291 correspond one-to-one to the two permanent magnets 26. Each side portion 291 is adjacent to the corresponding permanent magnet 26. With the fixed contact point F10 as a reference, each side portion 291 is located outside the corresponding permanent magnet 26. Each side portion 291 is disposed between the corresponding permanent magnet 26 and the inner surface of the cover 2702.

[0095] The shape of the connecting portion 292 is a rectangular frame. The connecting portion 292 has an opening 2920 in the center. The opening 2920 is rectangular in shape. Side portions 291 protrude from both ends of the connecting portion 292. The two side portions 291 protrude in the same direction from the connecting portion 292.

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the two electromagnetic relays 2 (the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202) are arranged side by side in the second direction D2.

[0097] Hereinafter, the fixed contact F10, the movable contact M10, and the permanent magnet 26 (261, 262) of the first electromagnetic relay 201 may be referred to as the first fixed contact F10, the first movable contact M10, and the first permanent magnet 26 (2611, 2621). Also, the fixed contact F10, the movable contact M10, and the permanent magnet 26 (261, 262) of the second electromagnetic relay 202 may be referred to as the second fixed contact F10, the second movable contact M10, and the second permanent magnet 26 (2612, 2622).

[0098] In addition, hereinafter, the two contact side terminals 211, 212 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 may be referred to as contact side terminals 2111, 2121, and the two coil terminals 281, 282 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 may be referred to as coil terminals 2811, 2821. In addition, the two contact side terminals 211, 212 of the second electromagnetic relay 202 may be referred to as contact side terminals 2112, 2122, and the two coil terminals 281, 282 of the second electromagnetic relay 202 may be referred to as coil terminals 2812, 2822.

[0099] The first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202 are arranged side by side in the second direction D2 such that the S pole of the first permanent magnet 2611 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the N pole of the second permanent magnet 2622 of the second electromagnetic relay 202 are adjacent to each other.

[0100] In short, the first electromagnetic relay 201 as one of the two electromagnetic relays 2 has a first fixed contact F10, a first movable contact M10 that comes into contact with and separates from the first fixed contact F10, and a first permanent magnet 26 (2611) that generates a magnetic field between the first fixed contact F10 and the first movable contact M10. The second electromagnetic relay 202 as the other of the two electromagnetic relays 2 has a second fixed contact F10, a second movable contact M10 that comes into contact with and separates from the second fixed contact F10, and a second permanent magnet 26 (2622) that generates a magnetic field between the second fixed contact F10 and the second movable contact M10. In the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202, the first permanent magnet 26 (2611) and the second permanent magnet 26 (2622) are arranged so that the opposite poles are adjacent to each other.

[0101] Moreover, the first electromagnetic relay 201 includes two first permanent magnets 2611, 2621. The two first permanent magnets 2611, 2621 are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in the direction in which the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202 are aligned (second direction D2). The second electromagnetic relay 202 includes two second permanent magnets 2612, 2622. The two second permanent magnets 2612, 2622 are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in the direction in which the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202 are aligned (second direction D2).

[0102] (2.2.4) Busbars Each of the bus bars 4 is electrically conductive. The material of each of the bus bars 4 is, for example, a copper alloy. The material of each of the bus bars 4 is, for example, a copper alloy that does not contain zinc. The copper content in the material of each of the bus bars 4 is, for example, 99% or more, and may be 99.5% or more.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 5, the multiple bus bars 4 include a multiple number (four in this case) of first bus bars 41, a multiple number (two in this case) of second bus bars 42, and a third bus bar 43.

[0104] Each of the multiple (four) first bus bars 41 connects between the first connection terminal 11 and the contact side terminal 21, or between the second connection terminal 12 and the contact side terminal 21. Hereinafter, when the four first bus bars 41 need to be distinguished from one another, they will be referred to as first bus bars 411, 412, 413, and 414.

[0105] 5, the first bus bar 411 connects between the first connection terminal 111 and the contact side terminal 2121 of the first electromagnetic relay 201. The first bus bar 412 connects between the contact side terminal 2111 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second connection terminal 121. The first bus bar 413 connects between the first connection terminal 112 and the contact side terminal 2112 of the second electromagnetic relay 202. The first bus bar 414 connects between the contact side terminal 2122 of the second electromagnetic relay 202 and the second connection terminal 122.

[0106] First bus bar 411 and first connection terminal 111 are joined to each other. First bus bar 411 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4111 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4111 of first bus bar 411 and first connection terminal 111 are joined to each other.

[0107] First bus bar 413 and first connection terminal 112 are joined to each other. First bus bar 413 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4131 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4131 of first bus bar 413 and first connection terminal 112 are joined to each other.

[0108] Here, protrusion 4111 (4131) is formed by bending an end of a metal bar constituting first bus bar 411 (413). Therefore, the position of protrusion 4111 (4131) can be adjusted by adjusting the bending position. First bus bars 411, 413 and first connection terminals 111, 112 are joined to each other by, for example, welding.

[0109] First bus bar 412 and second connection terminal 121 are integrally formed from the same material. Also, first bus bar 414 and second connection terminal 122 are integrally formed from the same material. Specifically, second connection terminal 121 (122) is formed from one first bus bar 412 (414) of the multiple first bus bars 41.

[0110] More specifically, the second connection terminal 121 (122) is formed by bending an end of a metal bar constituting the first bus bar 412 (414). Therefore, the position of the second connection terminal 121 (122) can be adjusted by adjusting the bending position. Furthermore, by forming the second connection terminal 12 from the metal bar constituting the first bus bar 41 in this manner, the reliability of the shape, dimensions, positional accuracy, etc. of the second connection terminal 12 is improved compared to the case where the second connection terminal 12 is formed from a member different from the metal bar constituting the first bus bar 41. The second connection terminal 121 (122) extends so as to intersect with the second surface 802.

[0111] First bus bar 411 and contact side terminal 2121 are joined to each other. First bus bar 411 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4112 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4112 of first bus bar 411 and contact side terminal 2121 are joined to each other.

[0112] First bus bar 412 and contact side terminal 2111 are joined to each other. First bus bar 412 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4122 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4122 of first bus bar 412 and contact side terminal 2111 are joined to each other.

[0113] First bus bar 413 and contact side terminal 2112 are joined to each other. First bus bar 413 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4132 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4132 of first bus bar 413 and contact side terminal 2112 are joined to each other.

[0114] First bus bar 414 and contact side terminal 2122 are joined to each other. First bus bar 414 has, at one end, a protruding portion 4142 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4142 of first bus bar 414 and contact side terminal 2122 are joined to each other.

[0115] Here, the protrusions 4112 (4122, 4132, 4142) are formed by bending the ends of the metal bars that constitute the first bus bars 411 (412, 413, 414). Therefore, by adjusting the bending positions, the positions of the protrusions 4112 (4122, 4132, 4142) can be adjusted.

[0116] In the connection device 100 of the present embodiment, the multiple first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 connect the two electromagnetic relays 2 (the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the second electromagnetic relay 202) so that current flows in the same direction in the electric paths in the two electromagnetic relays 2. For example, when the second connection terminals 121, 122 are connected to the external circuit 980 (power supply circuit) so that the second connection terminal 121 is on the high potential side and the second connection terminal 122 is on the low potential side, in the electric path in the first electromagnetic relay 201, current flows from the contact side terminal 2111 to the contact side terminal 2121, and in the electric path in the second electromagnetic relay 202, current flows from the contact side terminal 2112 to the contact side terminal 2122. That is, in both of the two electromagnetic relays 2, current flows from the movable contact M10 connected to the contact side terminal 211 to the fixed contact F10 connected to the contact side terminal 212 (see FIG. 16). In this way, by aligning the directions of current flow in the electrical circuits within the two electromagnetic relays 2, it is possible to align the directions in which the arcs are extended, thereby improving the arc extinguishing performance of the connection device 100.

[0117] Hereinafter, the portions where the protruding portions 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142 of the first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 are joined to the contact side terminals 2121, 2111, 2112, 2122, respectively, are also referred to as joint portions 711, 712, 713, 714 (see FIG. 5). The joint portions 711 (712, 713, 714) are welded portions where the first bus bars 411 (412, 413, 414) and the contact side terminals 2121 (2111, 2112, 2122) are joined by welding.

[0118] The second bus bar 42 is connected to the coil terminal 28. Each of the multiple (two) second bus bars 42 connects between the third connection terminal 13 and the coil terminal 28. Hereinafter, when it is necessary to distinguish between the two second bus bars 42, they will be referred to as second bus bars 421 and 422.

[0119] 5, the second bus bar 421 connects the third connection terminal 131 to the coil terminal 2811 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the coil terminal 2812 of the second electromagnetic relay 202. The second bus bar 422 connects the third connection terminal 132 to the coil terminal 2821 of the first electromagnetic relay 201 and the coil terminal 2822 of the second electromagnetic relay 202.

[0120] Second bus bar 421 and third connection terminal 131 are integrally formed from the same material. Second bus bar 422 and third connection terminal 132 are integrally formed from the same material. Specifically, third connection terminal 131 (132) is formed from one second bus bar 421 (422) of the multiple second bus bars 42.

[0121] Here, third connection terminal 131 (132) is formed by bending an end of a metal bar that constitutes second bus bar 421 (422). Therefore, by adjusting the bending position, the position of third connection terminal 131 (132) can be adjusted.

[0122] Second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2811 are joined to each other. Second bus bar 421 has, at one end, protruding portion 4211 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4211 of second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2811 are joined to each other.

[0123] Second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2812 are joined to each other. Second bus bar 421 has, at one end, protruding portion 4212 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4212 of second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2812 are joined to each other.

[0124] Second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2821 are joined to each other. Second bus bar 422 has, at one end, protruding portion 4221 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4221 of second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2821 are joined to each other.

[0125] Second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2822 are joined to each other. Second bus bar 422 has, at one end, protruding portion 4222 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in first direction D1. Protruding portion 4222 of second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2822 are joined to each other.

[0126] Here, protrusions 4211 (4212, 4221, 4222) are formed by bending the ends of a metal bar that constitutes second bus bar 421 (422). Therefore, by adjusting the bending positions, the positions of protrusions 4211 (4212, 4221, 4222) can be adjusted.

[0127] Hereinafter, the portions where protrusions 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222 of second bus bars 421, 422 are joined to coil terminals 2811, 2812, 2821, 2822, respectively, are also referred to as joints 721, 722, 723, 724 (see FIG. 5). Joints 721 (722, 723, 724) are welded portions where second bus bar 421 (422) and coil terminal 2811 (2812, 2821, 2822) are joined by welding.

[0128] In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the joints 711, 712, 713, 714, 721, 722, 723, and 724, they will also be referred to as joints 7.

[0129] 5 and 8, portions (protruding portions 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142) of the multiple first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 constituting the joints 711, 712, 713, 714 contact the contact side terminals 2121, 2111, 2112, 2122 from the same side (upper side in FIG. 5) when viewed from the normal direction of the second surface 802. Also, portions (protruding portions 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222) of the multiple second bus bars 421, 422 constituting the joints 721, 722, 723, 724 contact the coil terminals 2811, 2812, 2821, 2822 from the same side (upper side in FIG. 5) when viewed from the normal direction of the second surface 802. In short, the portions of the bus bars 4 (protrusions 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142, 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222) that respectively constitute the multiple joints 7 (711 to 714, 721 to 724) are in contact with the relay terminals 20 (2121, 2111, 2122, 2112, 2811, 2812, 2821, 2822) that respectively constitute the multiple joints 7 (711 to 714, 721 to 724) from the same side (the upper side in Figure 5) when viewed from the normal direction of the second surface 802. By specifying the positional relationship between the multiple protrusions 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142, 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222 and the multiple relay terminals 20 in this manner, it is possible to suppress variations in the gaps that may occur between the multiple protrusions and the multiple relay terminals 20 during manufacturing.

[0130] Furthermore, the portions of busbar 4 that form joint 7 (protrusions 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142, 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222) extend so as to intersect with second surface 802. In this case, the reliability of the connection at the joint is improved compared to, for example, a case in which busbar 4 does not have a protrusion.

[0131] The third bus bar 43 connects between the fourth connection terminal 14 and the fifth connection terminal 15 .

[0132] The third bus bar 43 and the fourth connection terminal 14 are joined to each other. The third bus bar 43 has, at one end, a protruding portion 431 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes in the first direction D1. The protruding portion 431 of the third bus bar 43 and the fourth connection terminal 14 are joined to each other.

[0133] Here, protrusion 431 is formed by bending an end of a metal bar that constitutes third bus bar 43. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the position of protrusion 431 by adjusting the bending position. Third bus bar 43 and fourth connection terminal 14 are joined to each other by, for example, welding.

[0134] The third bus bar 43 and the fifth connection terminal 15 are integrally formed from the same material.

[0135] Here, fifth connection terminal 15 is formed by bending an end of a metal bar that constitutes third bus bar 43. Therefore, the position of fifth connection terminal 15 can be adjusted by adjusting the bending position.

[0136] 5, the bus bars 4 are embedded in the base 82. Here, the bus bars 4 are integrated with the base 82 by insert molding.

[0137] The base 82 has an opening 6. The base 82 has a plurality of openings 6. The plurality of openings 6 include openings 601-616.

[0138] Opening 601 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, a part (branch portion 73) of second bus bar 421 and a part (branch portion 73) of second bus bar 422 protrude from opening 601.

[0139] Opening 602 is a rectangular through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 602 is located at joint portion 723 at which second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2821 are joined.

[0140] Opening 603 is a rectangular through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 603 is located at joint 721 at which second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2811 are joined.

[0141] Opening 604 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 604 is located at joint 724 where second bus bar 422 and coil terminal 2822 are joined.

[0142] Opening 605 is a rectangular through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 605 is located at joint portion 722 at which second bus bar 421 and coil terminal 2812 are joined.

[0143] Opening 606 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, a part (branch portion 73) of second bus bar 421 and a part (branch portion 73) of second bus bar 422 protrude from opening 606.

[0144] Opening 607 is an L-shaped through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 411 and a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 412 protrude from opening 607.

[0145] Opening 608 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 412 and a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 414 protrude from opening 608.

[0146] Opening 609 is a rectangular cutout formed by cutting out an edge of base 82. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 609 is where the joint between first connection terminal 111 and first bus bar 411 is located.

[0147] Opening 610 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 610 is located at joint 712 at which first bus bar 412 and relay terminal 2111 are joined.

[0148] Opening 611 is a rectangular through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 611 is located at joint 713 at which first bus bar 413 and relay terminal 2112 are joined.

[0149] Opening 612 is a rectangular cutout formed by cutting out an edge of base 82. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 612 is located at a joint between first connection terminal 112 and first bus bar 413.

[0150] Opening 613 is a rectangular through-hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 613 is located at joint 711 at which first bus bar 411 and relay terminal 2121 are joined.

[0151] Opening 614 is a rectangular through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 614 is located at joint 714 where first bus bar 414 and relay terminal 2122 are joined.

[0152] Opening 615 is a rectangular cutout formed by cutting out an edge of base 82. When viewed from first direction D1, opening 615 is located at the joint between fourth connection terminal 14 and third bus bar 43.

[0153] Opening 616 is a T-shaped through hole. When viewed from first direction D1, a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 413, a part (branch portion 73) of first bus bar 414, and a part (branch portion 73) of third bus bar 43 protrude from opening 616.

[0154] In other words, base 82 has openings 6 (601, 606, 607, 608, 616). Branch portion 73, which is a part of at least one of the multiple bus bars 4 that protrudes, is disposed within opening 6 (601, 606, 607, 608, 616) when viewed from first direction D1. This can improve the heat dissipation properties of bus bar 4.

[0155] Further, the base 82 has openings 6 (602, 603, 604, 605, 610, 611, 613, 614). A joint 7 (723, 721, 724, 722, 712, 713, 711, 714) at which one of the bus bars 4 and one of the relay terminals 20 are joined is disposed within the openings 6 (602, 603, 604, 605, 610, 611, 613, 614) when viewed from the first direction D1. This can improve the heat dissipation performance of the bus bars 4.

[0156] Here, the plurality of first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 and the third bus bar 43 are formed using a single terminal board 410 (metal bar) as a raw material. Also, the plurality of second bus bars 421, 422 are formed using another single terminal board 420 (metal bar) as a raw material.

[0157] 6, terminal board 410 has a shape in which a plurality of first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 and third bus bar 43 are connected by (three in this case) connection portions 4100. By cutting connection portions 4100 from terminal board 410, a plurality of first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414 and third bus bar 43 are formed.

[0158] Similarly, terminal board 420 has a shape in which a plurality of second bus bars 421, 422 are connected by (here, two) connection portions 4200. By cutting connection portions 4200 from terminal board 420, a plurality of second bus bars 421, 422 are formed.

[0159] Terminal plate 410 and terminal plate 420 are formed, for example, from the same material. However, without being limited thereto, terminal plate 410 and terminal plate 420 may be formed from different materials. The material of terminal plate 410 and terminal plate 420 is, for example, copper or a high purity copper alloy.

[0160] Terminal board 410 and terminal board 420 have different thicknesses (dimension in first direction D1), for example. In one example, terminal board 410 has a thickness of 0.8 mm, and terminal board 420 has a thickness of 0.64 mm, but is not limited to this. Terminal board 410 and terminal board 420 may also have the same thickness.

[0161] In one example of a method for manufacturing the base 82 in the connection device 100 of this embodiment, first, a rectangular metal plate is punched and bent to prepare the terminal plate 410 (see FIG. 6). Here, the ends of the punched metal plate are bent to form the protrusions 4111, 4112, 4122, 4132, 4142, 4131, 431, the second connection terminals 121, 122, and the fifth connection terminal 15. In FIG. 6, the shape of the metal plate after punching (before bending) is indicated by a dotted line.

[0162] Moreover, terminal board 420 is prepared by punching and bending a rectangular metal plate (see FIG. 6). Here, protrusions 4211, 4212, 4221, 4222 and third connection terminals 131, 132 are formed by bending the ends of the punched metal plate. In FIG. 6, the shape of the metal plate after punching (before bending) is shown by a dotted line.

[0163] Next, base 82 having a plurality of openings 6 is formed by insert molding using terminal boards 410 and 420 as insert parts (see FIG. 7).

[0164] Then, by cutting off the connection portions 4100, 4200 through the openings 6 (601, 606, 607, 608, 616), the plurality of first bus bars 411, 412, 413, 414, the plurality of second bus bars 421, 422, and the third bus bar 43 are formed. In this way, the base 82 on which the plurality of bus bars 4 are provided is formed (see FIG. 5 ). In the portions of the terminal boards 410, 420 exposed in the openings 6, the remaining portions after the connection portions 4100, 4200 are cut off are the branch portions 73.

[0165] (2.2.5) Detection unit The detector 3 detects the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9 .

[0166] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the detection unit 3 includes a lock unit 31, a first switch 32, an insertion detection unit 33, a second switch 34, a circuit board 35, and a connector 36.

[0167] The locking portion 31 locks the mating connector 9 to the housing 8. As shown in FIG.

[0168] The lock lever 311 has an operation piece 312 , a claw portion 313 , and a pressing piece 314 .

[0169] The operation piece 312 is a part that is operated by the user. The lock lever 311 is accommodated in the housing 8 so as to be movable in a third direction (front-rear direction) D3 with the operation piece 312 protruding upward from a through-hole 814 of the cover 81 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The lock lever 311 is biased rearward (upward in FIG. 2, rightward in FIG. 13) by a first spring 319. With the lock lever 311 positioned at the rear end in the third direction D3, the claw portion 313 protrudes into the recess 813 through a notch 816 of the cover 81, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 13.

[0170] When the protruding wall 92 of the mating connector 9 is inserted downward into the recess 813, the lock lever 311 is pushed by the protruding wall 92 and moves forward (to the left in FIG. 13). At this time, the pressing piece 314 of the lock lever 311 moves forward and comes into contact with the first switch 32, and the first switch 32 is operated (pushed).

[0171] 14A, when the projecting wall 92 of the mating connector 9 moves further downward, the claw portion 313 is inserted into the retaining hole 922 of the projecting wall 92, and the pressing of the lock lever 311 by the projecting wall 92 is released. The elastic force of the first spring 319 causes the lock lever 311 to move rearward (to the right in FIG. 14A), and the pressing piece 314 moves away from the first switch 32.

[0172] The lock lever 311 prevents the mating connector 9 from coming off the connection device 100 when the claw portion 313 is inserted into the stop hole 922 of the projecting wall 92 .

[0173] As shown in FIG. 14B, when the user pushes the operation piece 312 forward (to the left in FIG. 14A), the lock lever 311 moves forward. At this time, the pressing piece 314 moves forward and comes into contact with the first switch 32, and the first switch 32 is operated (pushed). In this state, the claw portion 313 protrudes from the retaining hole 922, and the lock lever 311 is released from preventing the mating connector 9 from coming off. Therefore, the user can remove the mating connector 9 from the connection device 100. When the mating connector 9 is removed from the connection device 100 and the user releases the operation piece 312, the lock lever 311 moves backward due to the elastic force of the first spring 319, and the pressing piece 314 moves away from the first switch 32.

[0174] In this way, the state of the lock portion 31 (the position of the lock lever 311) indicates part of the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9. In other words, the connection state includes the state of the lock portion 31.

[0175] The detection unit 3 also includes a switch (first switch 32) that is turned on or off depending on the connection state. The first switch 32 detects the state of the lock unit 31 (the position of the lock lever 311).

[0176] The insertion detection portion 33 moves in response to the insertion of the counterpart connection terminal 93 into the insertion opening 803. As shown in FIG.

[0177] As shown in FIG. 15, the movable portion 331 includes a protrusion 332 and a pressing piece 333 .

[0178] 2 and 15, the movable part 331 is accommodated in the housing 8 so as to be movable in a third direction D3 (front-rear direction). The movable part 331 is biased rearward (upward in FIG. 2, leftward in FIG. 15) by a second spring 339. When the movable part 331 is located at the rear end, the protrusion 332 protrudes into the recess 813 through the notch 817 of the cover 81, as shown in FIG.

[0179] When the protruding wall 92 of the mating connector 9 is inserted from above downward into the recess 813, the movable part 331 is pushed by the protruding wall 92 and moves forward (downward in FIG. 2, to the right in FIG. 15) as shown in FIG. 15. Note that the protruding wall 92 is not shown in FIG. 15. At this time, the pressing piece 333 of the movable part 331 moves forward and comes into contact with the second switch 34, thereby operating the second switch 34. With the protruding wall 92 of the mating connector 9 inserted into the recess 813 of the cover 81, the movable part 331 is maintained in a state of being pressed forward, and the pressing piece 333 is maintained in contact with the second switch 34.

[0180] On the other hand, when the mating connector 9 is removed from the connection device 100, the movable portion 331 moves rearward due to the elastic force of the second spring 329, and the pressing piece 333 moves away from the second switch .

[0181] In this way, the state of the insertion detection portion 33 (the position of the movable portion 331) indicates part of the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9. In other words, the connection state includes the state of the insertion detection portion 33.

[0182] The detection unit 3 also includes a switch (second switch 34) that is turned on or off depending on the connection state. The second switch 34 detects the state of the insertion detection unit 33 (the position of the movable part 331).

[0183] 4, the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are both mounted on a circuit board 35. The first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are mounted on one surface (upper surface) of the circuit board 35.

[0184] In this embodiment, the first switch 32 is a normally open (NO) type switch, and the second switch 34 is also a normally open (NO) type switch.

[0185] An example of a method for determining the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9 based on the states (on or off) of the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 will be described below with reference to Table 1 below.

[0186] In Table 1, the leftmost column indicates the state of the mating connector 9 with respect to the connection device 100. "Not connected" indicates a state in which the mating connector 9 has been removed from the connection device 100. "When inserted" indicates a state in which the mating connector 9 is in the process of being connected to the connection device 100. "When connected" indicates a state in which the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100 (connection is complete). "When removed" indicates a state in which the mating connector 9 is in the process of being removed from the connection device 100.

[0187] In Table 1, the second column from the left indicates the intermediate state at each state.

[0188] In Table 1, the center column and the second column from the right indicate the state of the first switch 32 and the state of the second switch 34. For ease of explanation, in Table 1, the on state of the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 is represented by "1" and the off state is represented by "0".

[0189] In Table 1, the rightmost column indicates the state of the electromagnetic relay 2. The state of the electromagnetic relay 2 is controlled by, for example, the control circuit 970 in accordance with the states of the first switch 32 and the second switch 34. For ease of explanation, in Table 1, the on state of the electromagnetic relay 2 is represented by "1" and the off state is represented by "0". The rightmost column will be explained in the section "(2.2.7) Control".

[0190] [Table 1]

[0191] When the mating connector 9 is not connected to the connection device 100 (state I), the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are both off.

[0192] When connecting the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100, first, as the protruding wall 92 is inserted into the recess 813, the lock lever 311 is pushed by the protruding wall 92, causing the lock lever 311 to move forward (state II), and the first switch 32 is turned on.

[0193] When the mating connector 9 is further inserted (state III), the claw portion 313 enters the retaining hole 922 (see FIG. 14A), which releases the pressure on the lock lever 311, and the lock lever 311 moves rearward due to the elastic force of the first spring 319, turning off the first switch 32. In addition, the movable portion 331 is pressed by the projecting wall 92, which moves the movable portion 331 forward (see FIG. 15), turning on the second switch 34.

[0194] In a state (state IV) in which the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100 (connecting), the first switch 32 is maintained in an OFF state and the second switch 34 is maintained in an ON state.

[0195] When removing the mating connector 9 from the connection device 100, the user operates the operation piece 312 of the lock lever 311 (see FIG. 14B) to move the lock lever 311 forward (state V). This turns on the first switch 32. At this time, the second switch 34 is maintained on.

[0196] When the user moves the mating housing 90 of the mating connector 9 upward with the lock lever 311 pressed forward (state VI), the pressure on the movable part 331 by the protruding wall 92 is released. As a result, the movable part 331 moves backward due to the elastic force of the second spring 329, and the second switch 34 is turned off.

[0197] After removing the mating connector 9 from the connection device 100, the user releases the lock lever 311 (state VII), which causes the lock lever 311 to move backward due to the elastic force of the first spring 310, and the first switch 32 turns off.

[0198] In this way, by detecting the state (on or off) of the first switch 32 and the state (on or off) of the second switch 34, it is possible to determine the connection state of the mating connector 9 with respect to the connection device 100.

[0199] The state (on or off) of the first switch 32 can be detected, for example, by determining whether or not a current flows through the first switch 32 with a voltage source connected across the first switch 32. Similarly, the state (on or off) of the second switch 34 can be detected, for example, by determining whether or not a current flows through the second switch 34 with a voltage source connected across the second switch 34.

[0200] 4, the connector 36 is mounted on a circuit board 35. Two through holes 350 are formed at both ends in the second direction D2 at the front end of the circuit board 35.

[0201] The connector 36 is mounted on one surface (top surface) of the circuit board 35. The connector 36 includes four pins. Two first pins of the four pins are connected to both ends of the first switch 32, and two second pins of the four pins are connected to both ends of the second switch 34. Therefore, the state (on or off) of the first switch 32 can be detected by determining whether or not a current flows between the two first pins, and the state (on or off) of the second switch 34 can be detected by determining whether or not a current flows between the two second pins.

[0202] (2.2.6) Medium Body The inner body 5 is made of resin and has a rectangular box shape that is open on three sides (front, rear, and bottom).

[0203] As shown in Fig. 4, the inner body 5 has two first accommodating portions (first holding portions) 51. The first accommodating portions 51 are recesses formed in the upper surface (upper surface of the upper wall) of the inner body 5. As shown in Fig. 3, the inner body 5 is accommodated in the housing 8. The first accommodating portions 51 accommodate the first connection terminal 11. The inner body 5 also holds the first connection terminal 11.

[0204] The two first accommodating portions 51 each accommodate two first connection terminals 11. Hereinafter, when it is necessary to distinguish between the two first accommodating portions 51, they will be referred to as first accommodating portions 511 and 512. The first accommodating portion 511 accommodates the first connection terminal 111, and the first accommodating portion 512 accommodates the first connection terminal 112.

[0205] When accommodated in the first accommodating portion 511, the lead portion 114 of the first connection terminal 111 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the intermediate body 5 and is located within the opening 609 (see FIG. 5) of the base 82. When accommodated in the first accommodating portion 512, the lead portion 114 of the first connection terminal 112 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the intermediate body 5 and is located within the opening 612 (see FIG. 5) of the base 82.

[0206] As shown in Fig. 4, the inner body 5 has a second accommodating portion (second holding portion) 52. The second accommodating portion 52 is a recess formed in the upper surface of the inner body 5. As shown in Fig. 3, the second accommodating portion 52 accommodates the fourth connection terminal 14. In addition, the inner body 5 holds the fourth connection terminal 14.

[0207] When accommodated in the second accommodating portion 52, the lead portion 144 of the fourth connection terminal 14 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the inner body 5 and is located within the opening 615 of the base 82 (see FIG. 5).

[0208] The intermediate body 5 has a plurality of protrusions (holding portions) 53 on its upper surface. The plurality of protrusions 53 hold the lock lever 311 and the movable portion 331 so as to be movable in the third direction (front-rear direction) D3. A first spring holder 531 (see FIG. 13) that holds the first spring 319 and a second spring holder 532 (see FIG. 15) that holds the second spring 329 are also formed on the upper surface of the intermediate body 5.

[0209] Two bosses 54 protruding downward are formed on the lower surface of the upper wall of the inner body 5. Two screws 59 are passed through the two through holes 350 of the circuit board 35, respectively, and the two screws 59 are fastened to the two bosses 54, whereby the circuit board 35 is fixed (held) to the inner body 5.

[0210] In short, the inner body 5 holds the detection unit 3 .

[0211] The intermediate body 5 is fixed to the base 82. Here, the intermediate body 5 is fixed to the base 82 by bonding the lower surfaces of the left and right side walls to the base 82. However, this is not limited to this, and the intermediate body 5 may be fixed to the base 82 by other appropriate methods such as screwing, fitting, etc.

[0212] The two electromagnetic relays 2 are disposed in the internal space of the inner body 5 (the space between the upper wall of the inner body 5 and the base 82).

[0213] (2.2.7) Control The states (on or off) of the two electromagnetic relays 2 in the connection device 100 are controlled, for example, by an external control circuit 970 (see FIGS. 16 and 17).

[0214] The control circuit 970 is connected to the connector 36 via, for example, a communication cable.

[0215] The control circuit 970 detects the state of the first switch 32 and the state of the second switch 34. Specifically, the control circuit 970 detects the state of the first switch 32 by determining whether or not a current (current equal to or greater than a threshold) flows through the first pin when a voltage is applied between two first pins connected to both ends of the first switch 32. The control circuit 970 also detects the state of the second switch 34 by determining whether or not a current (current equal to or greater than a threshold) flows through the second pin when a voltage is applied between two second pins connected to both ends of the second switch 34.

[0216] In short, the control circuit 970 detects the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9 based on a first status signal SI1 (see FIG. 16) indicating the state of the first switch 32 and a second status signal SI2 indicating the state of the second switch 34. The connector 36 functions as an output unit that outputs status signals (first status signal SI1, second status signal SI2) indicating the connection state between the connection device 100 and the mating connector 9 to the outside.

[0217] The control circuit 970 controls the state of the electromagnetic relay 2, for example, as follows.

[0218] For example, the control circuit 970 turns on the electromagnetic relay 2 when the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100 , and turns off the electromagnetic relay 2 when the mating connector 9 is removed from the connection device 100 .

[0219] For example, as shown in Table 1, the control circuit 970 turns off the electromagnetic relay 2 in states I, II, and V to VII, and turns on the electromagnetic relay 2 in states III and IV of Table 1.

[0220] More specifically, when the mating connector 9 is not connected to the connection device 100 (state I), the control circuit 970 does not supply power E1 between the two third connection terminals 131, 132 and turns off the electromagnetic relay 2.

[0221] When the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100, even if the projecting wall 92 is inserted into the recess 813 and the first switch 32 is turned on (state II), the control circuit 970 maintains the electromagnetic relay 2 in the off state.

[0222] When the protruding wall 92 is further inserted and the transition of the first switch 32 from on to off and the transition of the second switch 34 from off to on (state III) are detected, the control circuit 970 determines that the connection of the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100 is complete, and turns on the electromagnetic relay 2.

[0223] In a state (state IV) in which the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100 (during connection), the control circuit 970 maintains the electromagnetic relay 2 in the on state.

[0224] When the user operates the operation piece 312 of the lock lever 311 to turn on the first switch 32 (state V), the control circuit 970 turns off the electromagnetic relay 2.

[0225] During (state VI) and after (state VII) the removal of the mating connector 9, the control circuit 970 maintains the electromagnetic relay 2 in the OFF state.

[0226] Here, if the control circuit 970 turns on the electromagnetic relay 2 before the completion of the connection of the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100 (state I or state II), an arc may occur between the first connection terminal 11 and the mating connection terminal 93 during the process of connecting the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100. In contrast, if the control circuit 970 turns on the electromagnetic relay 2 after the completion of the connection (state III) as in the above-mentioned operation example, an arc is unlikely to occur between the first connection terminal 11 and the mating connection terminal 93 during the process of connecting the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100. Therefore, safety can be improved.

[0227] Similarly, if the control circuit 970 turns off the electromagnetic relay 2 after the mating connector 9 is removed from the connection device 100 (state VI or state VII), an arc may occur between the first connection terminal 11 and the mating connection terminal 93 while the mating connector 9 is being removed from the connection device 100. In contrast, if the control circuit 970 turns off the electromagnetic relay 2 before the mating connector 9 is removed from the connection device 100 (state V) as in the above-mentioned operation example, an arc is unlikely to occur between the first connection terminal 11 and the mating connection terminal 93 while the mating connector 9 is being removed from the connection device 100. This can improve safety.

[0228] Furthermore, since the connection device 100 is provided with the detection unit 3 (output unit), it becomes possible to remotely control the electromagnetic relay 2 (by the control circuit 970) when connecting the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100 and when removing the mating connector 9 from the connection device 100. This improves the safety of the connection device 100.

[0229] (2.2.8) Electrical Module 18, the electric module 200 includes a plurality of connection devices 100 and a power cable 210. The electric module 200 has a plurality of sockets to which a plurality of mating connectors 9 are individually connected. The sockets here include two power receiving sockets 803 and a grounding socket 804 provided in one connection device 100.

[0230] The second connection terminals 12 (not shown in FIG. 18) of the multiple connection devices 100 are connected to the electric wires of the power cable 210. The second connection terminals 12 are connected to an external circuit 980 via the power cable 210.

[0231] In this way, an electric module 200 including a plurality of connection devices 100 makes it possible to supply electric power to a plurality of electric devices 990 while improving the reliability of the electric paths of the connection devices 100.

[0232] Note that one control circuit 970 may be connected to the connectors 36 of two or more of the multiple connection devices 100, and the two or more connection devices 100 may be controlled by the single control circuit 970. Alternatively, multiple control circuits 970 may be connected one-to-one to the connectors 36 of the multiple connection devices 100, and the multiple connection devices 100 may be individually controlled by the multiple control circuits 970.

[0233] (3) Modifications The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. The above-mentioned embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Below, modified examples of the above-mentioned embodiments are listed. The modified examples described below can be applied in appropriate combination.

[0234] (3.1) Variation 1 A connection device 100 of Modification 1 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 19 to 23. Connection device 100 of this modification differs from connection device 100 of the above embodiment mainly in that connector 36 is exposed from second surface 802 of housing 8. In connection device 100 of this modification, components that are substantially the same as those in connection device 100 of the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0235] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the connection device 100 as viewed obliquely from above, Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the connection device 100 as viewed obliquely from above, Fig. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the main parts of the connection device 100 as viewed obliquely from above, Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the connection device 100 as viewed obliquely from below, and Fig. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the main parts of the connection device 100 as viewed obliquely from below.

[0236] As shown in FIG. 21, in connection device 100 of this modified example, circuit board 35 includes a first circuit board 351 and a second circuit board 352.

[0237] The first circuit board 351, like the circuit board 35 of the embodiment, is fixed to the inner body 5 by a screw 59. Specifically, the screw 59 is passed through one through hole 350 of the first circuit board 351 and fastened to the boss 54 of the inner body 5, whereby the first circuit board 351 is fixed (held) to the inner body 5.

[0238] On the other hand, the second circuit board 352 is fitted and fixed in a recess formed in the lower surface of the base 82, as shown in FIGS.

[0239] 21, the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are mounted on a first circuit board 351. The first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are mounted on one surface (upper surface) of the first circuit board 351.

[0240] 22, the connector 36 is mounted on a second circuit board 352. The connector 36 is mounted on one surface (lower surface) of the second circuit board 352.

[0241] The first circuit board 351 and the second circuit board 352 are electrically connected by two pairs (four in total) of conductors 372. The pair of conductors 372 (the pair of conductors 372 on the left side in FIG. 21) connects between a pair of pattern conductors formed on the left part of the lower surface of the first circuit board 351 and a pair of pattern conductors formed on the left part of the upper surface of the second circuit board 352. The pair of conductors 372 are integrally molded with a rectangular plate-shaped insulator 371 that is long in the vertical direction. Another pair of conductors 372 (the pair of conductors 372 on the right side in FIG. 21) connects between a pair of pattern conductors formed on the right part of the lower surface of the first circuit board 351 and a pair of pattern conductors formed on the right part of the upper surface of the second circuit board 352. The other pair of conductors 372 is also integrally molded with another rectangular plate-shaped insulator 371 that is long in the vertical direction.

[0242] 22 and 23, connector 36 of this modification has six pins. The six pins include the four pins (two first pins and two second pins) included in connector 36 of the embodiment and two third connection terminals 13.

[0243] The two first pins are connected to both ends of the first switch 32. The first switch 32 and the two first pins are connected via a pair of conductors 372.

[0244] The two second pins are connected to both ends of the second switch 34. The second switch 34 and the two second pins are connected via another pair of conductors 372.

[0245] The two third connection terminals 13 are respectively connected to the two coil terminals 28 of each electromagnetic relay 2 (see FIG. 16).

[0246] Also, as shown in Figures 19 and 20, a flexible portion 8121 is formed in the upper portion of each of two (the left and right side walls 812) of the four side walls 812 of the cover 81, so as to be surrounded by a C-shaped notch that opens downward.

[0247] 22 and 23, in the connection device 100 of this modification, terminals (the second connection end terminal 12, the fifth connection terminal 15, and the connector 36 including the two first pins, the two second pins, and the two third connection terminals 13) connected to an external device (a control circuit 970, an external circuit 980) are arranged together on one surface (the second surface 802) of the housing 8. This improves the ease of handling of the connection device 100.

[0248] (3.2) Other Modifications In one modified example, the method of joining the first connection terminal 11, the fourth connection terminal 14, and the relay terminal 20 to the corresponding bus bars 4 is not limited to welding, and may be, for example, soldering.

[0249] In one variant, the electromagnetic relay 2 may be a latching relay.

[0250] In one modified example, at least one of the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 may be a normally closed type switch. For example, the first switch 32 may be a normally closed type switch, and the second switch 34 may be a normally open type switch. In this case, when the control circuit 970 detects that both the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are on, it determines that the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100, and turns on the electromagnetic relay 2. Here, the control circuit 970 may erroneously determine, for example, that a circuit break is an off state of the switch (the first switch 32 or the second switch 34). In other words, when the connection of the mating connector 9 to the connection device 100 is determined based on the off state of the first switch 32 or the second switch 34, an erroneous determination may occur. Therefore, the safety of the connection device 100 may be improved by determining that the mating connector 9 is connected to the connection device 100 when it detects that both the first switch 32 and the second switch 34 are on.

[0251] In one modification, the connection device 100 may include only one electromagnetic relay 2 (for example, only the first electromagnetic relay 201).

[0252] In a modified example, the structure of the electromagnetic relay 2 is not limited to the structure of the embodiment.

[0253] In one variation, the connector 36 may be exposed from a hole formed in another location (eg, the first surface 801) rather than in the side wall 812 or the second surface 802 of the housing 8.

[0254] In one modified example, the method of embedding the bus bars 4 in the base 82 is not limited to insert molding. For example, the bus bars 4 may be partially or entirely embedded in the base 82 by press-fitting.

[0255] In one modified example, the multiple bus bars 4 may not include the second bus bar 42. For example, the coil terminal 28 may be connected to the conductor pattern.

[0256] (4) Description The following aspects are disclosed from the above-described embodiment and modified examples.

[0257] The connection device (100) of the first embodiment is a connection device for connecting between a mating connector (9) and an external circuit (980). The connection device (100) includes a housing (8), a first connection terminal (11), a second connection terminal (12), an electromagnetic relay (2), and a plurality of bus bars (4). The housing (8) has a first surface (801), a second surface (802), and a base (82). The first surface (801) has an insertion opening (803) into which a mating connection terminal (93) of a mating connector (9) can be inserted along one direction (D1). The second surface (802) is on the opposite side to the first surface (801) in the one direction (D1). The base (82) is provided with the second surface (802). The first connection terminal (11) is configured to be connected to the mating connection terminal (93). The second connection terminal (12) is provided on the base (82) and configured to be connected to an external circuit (980). The electromagnetic relay (2) has a plurality of relay terminals (20) including a plurality of contact side terminals (21). The electromagnetic relay (2) is accommodated in a housing (8). The electromagnetic relay (2) opens and closes an electric path between the plurality of contact side terminals (21). The detection unit (3) detects the connection state between the connection device (100) and the mating connector (9). The plurality of bus bars (4) are provided on the base (82). The plurality of bus bars (4) include a plurality of first bus bars (41) that respectively connect between the first connection terminal (11) and the plurality of contact side terminals (21) and between the second connection terminal (12) and the plurality of contact side terminals (21).

[0258] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the reliability of the electrical path of the connection device (100) compared to, for example, a case in which the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are connected to the multiple contact side terminals by a pattern conductor of a printed circuit board.

[0259] The connection device (100) of the second aspect is the first aspect, further comprising a locking portion (31) that locks the mating connector (9) to the housing (8). The connected state includes the state of the locking portion (31).

[0260] According to this embodiment, it is possible to detect the connection state between the connection device (100) and the mating connector (9) based on the state of the lock portion (31).

[0261] The connection device (100) of the third aspect is the first or second aspect, further comprising an insertion detection unit (33) that moves in response to insertion of the mating connection terminal (93) into the insertion opening (803). The connection state includes the state of the insertion detection unit (33).

[0262] According to this embodiment, it is possible to detect the connection state between the connection device (100) and the mating connector (9) based on the state of the insertion detection portion (33).

[0263] In the connection device (100) of the fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the detection unit (3) includes switches (first switch 32, second switch 34) that are turned on or off depending on the connection state.

[0264] According to this aspect, it is possible to detect the connection state based on the state of the switch.

[0265] In the connection device (100) of the fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the bus bars (4) are embedded in the base (82).

[0266] According to this embodiment, the bus bar (4) can be easily handled and positioned.

[0267] In a sixth aspect of the connection device (100) in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the base (82) has an opening (6). A branch portion (73) formed by a portion of at least one of the plurality of bus bars (4) protruding is disposed within the opening (6) when viewed from one direction (D1).

[0268] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the heat dissipation property of the bus bar (4).

[0269] In a seventh aspect of the connection device (100), in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the base (82) has an opening (6). A joint (7) at which one bus bar (4) of the plurality of bus bars (4) and one relay terminal (20) of the plurality of relay terminals (20) are joined is disposed within the opening (6) when viewed from one direction (D1).

[0270] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the heat dissipation property of the bus bar (4).

[0271] In the connection device (100) of the eighth embodiment, in the seventh embodiment, the joint portion (7) is a welded portion where one bus bar (4) and one relay terminal (20) are joined by welding.

[0272] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the bonding strength of the bonded portion (7).

[0273] A connection device (100) of a ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, and includes a joint portion (7) in which one bus bar (4) of the plurality of bus bars (4) is joined to one relay terminal (20) of the plurality of relay terminals (20). A portion of the one bus bar (4) constituting the joint portion (7) extends so as to intersect with the second surface (802).

[0274] According to this embodiment, the reliability of the connection at the joint (7) is improved compared to when the bus bar (4) is located within the plane of the second surface (802).

[0275] The connection device (100) of the tenth aspect is the same as the connection device of the ninth aspect, but includes a plurality of joints (7). Portions of the plurality of bus bars (4) constituting each of the plurality of joints (7) are in contact with the plurality of relay terminals (20) constituting each of the plurality of joints (7) from the same side when viewed from the normal direction of the second surface (802).

[0276] According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress variations in the gaps that may occur between the multiple bus bars (4) and the multiple relay terminals (20) during manufacturing.

[0277] In the connection device (100) of an eleventh aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the second connection terminal (12) is formed from one of the first bus bars (41). The second connection terminal (12) extends so as to intersect with the second surface (802).

[0278] According to this embodiment, by forming the second connection terminal (12) by, for example, bending, it becomes easy to adjust the position of the second connection terminal (12).

[0279] In the connection device (100) of the twelfth aspect, in any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the plurality of relay terminals (20) further includes a coil terminal (28). The plurality of bus bars (4) further includes a second bus bar (42) connected to the coil terminal (28).

[0280] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the reliability of the electrical circuit to which the coil terminal (28) is connected in the connection device (100) compared to the case where the coil terminal is connected to a pattern conductor of a printed circuit board.

[0281] The connection device (100) of a thirteenth aspect is any one of the first to twelfth aspects, and further includes an inner body (5) that holds the detection unit (3). The inner body (5) is accommodated in the housing (8).

[0282] According to this embodiment, the reliability of the positioning of the detection unit (3) is improved.

[0283] In the connection device (100) of the fourteenth aspect, in the thirteenth aspect, the inner body (5) further holds a first connection terminal (11).

[0284] According to this embodiment, the reliability of the positioning of the first connection terminal (11) is improved.

[0285] In the connection device (100) of the fifteenth embodiment, in the thirteenth or fourteenth embodiment, the intermediate body (5) is fixed to the base (82).

[0286] According to this embodiment, the reliability of the positioning of the inner body (5) and the member held by the inner body (5) is improved.

[0287] In the connection device (100) of the sixteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, the mating connector (9) includes two mating connection terminals (93). The connection device (100) includes two first connection terminals (11), two second connection terminals (12), and two electromagnetic relays (2). The two first connection terminals (11) are configured to be connected to the two mating connection terminals (93), respectively. The two second connection terminals (12) are provided on the base (82). The two second connection terminals (12) are configured to be connected to an external circuit (980). The two electromagnetic relays (2) respectively turn on and off the electrical connection between the two first connection terminals (11) and the two second connection terminals (12).

[0288] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the reliability of the electrical path of the connection device (100).

[0289] In the connection device (100) of the 17th aspect, in the 16th aspect, a first electromagnetic relay (201) as one of the two electromagnetic relays (2) has a first fixed contact (F10), a first movable contact (M10) that comes into contact with and separates from the first fixed contact (F10), and a first permanent magnet (26) that generates a magnetic field between the first fixed contact (F10) and the first movable contact (M10). A second electromagnetic relay (202) as the other of the two electromagnetic relays (2) has a second fixed contact (F10), a second movable contact (M10) that comes into contact with and separates from the second fixed contact (F10), and a second permanent magnet (26) that generates a magnetic field between the second fixed contact (F10) and the second movable contact (M10). In the first electromagnetic relay (201) and the second electromagnetic relay (202), the first permanent magnet (26) and the second permanent magnet (26) are arranged such that opposite poles are adjacent to each other.

[0290] According to this embodiment, the direction of the magnetic field generated by the first permanent magnet (26) and the direction of the magnetic field generated by the second permanent magnet (26) are the same, so that the magnetic fields in the first electromagnetic relay (201) and the second electromagnetic relay (202) can be strengthened.

[0291] In the connection device (100) of the 18th aspect, in the 17th aspect, the first electromagnetic relay (201) includes two first permanent magnets (2611, 2621). The two first permanent magnets (2611, 2621) are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in the direction in which the first electromagnetic relay (201) and the second electromagnetic relay (202) are arranged. The second electromagnetic relay (202) includes two second permanent magnets (2612, 2622). The two second permanent magnets (2612, 2622) are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in the direction in which the first electromagnetic relay (201) and the second electromagnetic relay (202) are arranged.

[0292] According to this embodiment, the magnetic fields in the first electromagnetic relay (201) and the second electromagnetic relay (202) can be strengthened.

[0293] In the connection device (100) of the 19th aspect, in any one of the first to eighteenth aspects, the electromagnetic relay (2) has a first conductive part (fixed conductive part 24) and a second conductive part (movable conductive part 23). The first conductive part has a first end part (end part 242) including a fixed contact (F10) and a first extension part (extension part 241) provided to extend in one direction (S1) and connected to the fixed contact (F10) at its tip in the one direction (S1). The second conductive part has a second end part (232) including a movable contact (M10) and a second extension part (extension part 231) provided to extend in the one direction (S1) and connected to the movable contact (M10) at its tip in the one direction (S1). The movable contact (M10) moves between a closed position in contact with the fixed contact (F10) and an open position away from the fixed contact (F10). The first end is curved so as to be folded back from the tip of the first end in the one direction (S1). The fixed contact (F10) is present at the folded back portion of the first end and faces the movable contact (M10).

[0294] According to this embodiment, it is possible to facilitate extinguishing of the arc occurring between the fixed contact (F10) and the movable contact (M10).

[0295] In the connection device (100) of the twentieth aspect, in any one of the first to nineteenth aspects, the detection unit (3) includes an output unit (connector 36). The output unit outputs a status signal (first status signal SI1, second status signal SI2) indicating the detected connection status to the outside.

[0296] According to this embodiment, for example, by receiving a status signal, an external control circuit (970) can control the state (on or off) of the electromagnetic relay (2) of the connection device (100) depending on the connection state, thereby enabling remote operation of the connection device (100).

[0297] An electric module (200) of a 21st aspect includes a plurality of connection devices (100) of any one of the 1st to 20th aspects. The electric module (200) further includes a power cable (210) connected to second connection terminals (12) of the plurality of connection devices (100).

[0298] According to this embodiment, it is possible to improve the reliability of the electrical path of the connection device (100). [Explanation of symbols]

[0299] 11 First connection terminal 12 Second connection terminal 2. Electromagnetic Relay 20 Relay terminal 21 Contact side terminal 23 Movable conductive part (second conductive part) 231 Extension part (second extension part) 232 End (second end) 24 Fixed conductive part (first conductive part) 241 Extension part (1st extension part) 242 End (first end) 26 Permanent Magnets 28 Coil terminal F10 Fixed contact M10 moving contact S1 One Direction 201 First electromagnetic relay 202 Second electromagnetic relay 2611, 2621 First permanent magnet 2612, 2622 Second permanent magnet 3. Detection unit 31 Rock Club 32 1st switch (switch) 33 Insertion detection unit 34 Second switch (switch) 36 Connector (output section) 4 Busbars 41 No. 1 bus bar 42 2nd bus bar 5 Medium Body 6 Openings 7 Joint 73 Branch 8. Housing 801 Page 1 802 2nd page 803 Insertion port 82 Base 9 Mating Connector 93 Counterpart connection terminal 980 External circuit 100 Connection device 200 Electrical Module 210 Power Cable D1 One direction SI1 First status signal (status signal) SI2 Second status signal (status signal)

Claims

1. A connection device for connecting a mating connector and an external circuit, comprising: a housing having a first surface having an insertion opening into which a mating connection terminal of the mating connector can be inserted along one direction, a second surface opposite to the first surface in the one direction, and a base on which the second surface is provided; a first connection terminal configured to be connected to the mating connection terminal inserted into the insertion opening; A second connection terminal provided on the base and configured to be connected to the external circuit; an electromagnetic relay having a plurality of relay terminals including a plurality of contact side terminals, the relay being accommodated in the housing and opening and closing an electric path between the plurality of contact side terminals; a detection unit that detects a connection state between the connection device and the mating connector; A plurality of bus bars provided on the base; Equipped with the plurality of bus bars include a plurality of first bus bars respectively connecting the first connection terminal and the plurality of contact side terminals, and the second connection terminal and the plurality of contact side terminals; Connection device.

2. A locking portion is further provided to lock the mating connector to the housing, The connection state includes a state of the lock portion. The connection device according to claim 1 .

3. an insertion detection unit that moves in response to insertion of the mating connection terminal into the insertion port; The connection state includes a state of the insertion detection unit.

3. A connection device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The detection unit includes a switch that is turned on or off depending on the connection state. The connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The bus bars are embedded in the base. The connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the base has an opening; a branch portion, which is a portion of at least one of the plurality of bus bars and which protrudes from the branch portion, is disposed within the opening portion when viewed from the one direction. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the base has an opening; a joint portion at which one bus bar of the plurality of bus bars and one relay terminal of the plurality of relay terminals are joined is disposed within the opening portion when viewed from the one direction. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The joint portion is a welded portion at which the one bus bar and the one relay terminal are joined by welding. The connection device according to claim 7.

9. a joint portion at which one bus bar of the plurality of bus bars and one relay terminal of the plurality of relay terminals are joined, a portion of the one bus bar constituting the joint portion extends so as to intersect with the second surface; A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A plurality of the joints are provided, portions of the bus bar constituting each of the plurality of joints are in contact with the relay terminals constituting each of the plurality of joints from the same side when viewed from a normal direction of the second surface; The connection device according to claim 9.

11. The second connection terminal is formed from one of the plurality of first bus bars and extends so as to intersect with the second surface. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. the plurality of relay terminals further includes a coil terminal; The plurality of bus bars further includes a second bus bar connected to the coil terminal. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The housing further includes an inner body that is accommodated in the housing and holds the detection unit. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The inner body further holds the first connection terminal. The connection device according to claim 13.

15. The inner body is fixed to the base. A connection device according to claim 13 or 14.

16. The mating connector has two mating connection terminals, The connection device includes: Two of the first connection terminals configured to be connected to the two mating connection terminals, respectively; Two second connection terminals provided on the base and configured to be connected to the external circuit; two electromagnetic relays for respectively turning on and off electrical connections between the two first connection terminals and the two second connection terminals; Equipped with A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The first electromagnetic relay as one of the two electromagnetic relays includes: A first fixed contact; A first movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the first fixed contact; a first permanent magnet that generates a magnetic field between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact; having The second electromagnetic relay as the other of the two electromagnetic relays includes: A second fixed contact; A second movable contact that moves in contact with and away from the second fixed contact; a second permanent magnet that generates a magnetic field between the second fixed contact and the second movable contact; having The first electromagnetic relay and the second electromagnetic relay are arranged such that the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are adjacent to each other with opposite poles.

17. The connection device of claim 16.

18. The first electromagnetic relay is Two of the first permanent magnets are provided, the two first permanent magnets are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in a direction in which the first electromagnetic relay and the second electromagnetic relay are arranged, The second electromagnetic relay is Two of the second permanent magnets are provided, The two second permanent magnets are arranged such that opposite poles face each other in a direction in which the first electromagnetic relay and the second electromagnetic relay are arranged.

20. The connection device of claim 17.

19. The electromagnetic relay includes: a first conductive portion having a first end portion including a fixed contact and a first extension portion provided to extend in one direction and connected to the fixed contact at a tip end in the one direction; a second conductive portion having a second end portion including a movable contact and a second extension portion provided to extend in the one direction and connected to the movable contact at a tip end in the one direction; having The movable contact moves between a closed position in which it contacts the fixed contact and an open position away from the fixed contact; The first end is curved so as to be folded back from a tip of the first end in the one direction, The fixed contact is present at a folded portion of the first end portion and faces the movable contact. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The detection unit includes an output unit that outputs a status signal indicating the detected connection status to an outside. A connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. A plurality of connection devices according to any one of claims 1 to 20 are provided, a power cable connected to the second connection terminals of the plurality of connection devices; Electrical module.

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