Wire Harness

Abstract

To provide a wire harness which can improve heat dissipation while suppressing deterioration of waterproofness.SOLUTION: A wire harness 10 comprises: at least one electric wire 20; and a connector 30 provided at an end of the electric wire 20. The wire harness 10 further comprises a package sheet 40 surrounding an outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The package sheet 40 is wound around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The package sheet 40 comprises a water-repellent part 45 having water repellency at least at a part of an outer surface 42 of the package sheet 40.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wire harness. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, some wire harnesses mounted on vehicles such as automobiles include electric wires and connectors provided at the ends of the electric wires. As described in Patent Document 1, for example, some such wire harnesses further include a corrugated tube that covers the outer periphery of the electric wires and a rubber boot that prevents water from entering the inside of the wire harness from between the end of the corrugated tube and the connector. The rubber boot is in close contact with the outer periphery of the corrugated tube to prevent water from entering the inside of the wire harness from between the rubber boot and the outer periphery of the corrugated tube. The rubber boot is in close contact with the outer periphery of the connector to prevent water from entering the inside of the wire harness from between the connector and the rubber boot. The end opening of the corrugated tube is closed by the rubber boot and the connector. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-126982 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Generally, a corrugated tube is used that has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the electric wire placed inside the corrugated tube. Therefore, an air layer exists between the inner peripheral surface of the corrugated tube and the outer peripheral surface of the electric wire. Therefore, when the electric wire generates heat when current is applied to the electric wire, the heat is likely to be trapped inside the corrugated tube. Furthermore, as described above, when the end opening of the corrugated tube is blocked by a rubber boot and a connector, the heat is likely to be trapped inside the corrugated tube. In addition, for example, when heat from an electric device to which a connector is connected is transmitted to a wire harness via the connector, there is a concern that the temperature inside the corrugated tube will further increase.

[0005] Therefore, the wire harness equipped with the corrugated tube and the rubber boot as described above has a problem that the heat dissipation is low although the waterproof property is improved. Therefore, it is considered to simply remove the rubber boot from the wire harness in order to improve the heat dissipation property, but in this case, the waterproof property is deteriorated.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a wire harness that can improve heat dissipation performance while suppressing deterioration of waterproof performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The wire harness of the present disclosure includes at least one electric wire and a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, and includes an exterior sheet surrounding an outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet being wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire, and at least a portion of the outer surface of the exterior sheet having a water-repellent portion having water-repellent properties. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the wire harness of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve heat dissipation performance while suppressing deterioration of waterproof performance. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a wire harness according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates the wire harness in the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a portion of the wire harness in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a portion of the wire harness in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of the wire harness according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a part of the wire harness according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view that illustrates a part of the wire harness in the modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic diagram of a wire harness according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] First, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described. The wire harness of the present disclosure includes: [1] A wire harness comprising at least one electric wire and a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, the wire harness further comprising an exterior sheet surrounding an outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet being wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire, and at least a portion of an outer surface of the exterior sheet having a water-repellent portion having water-repellent properties.

[0011] According to this configuration, the exterior sheet is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire. Therefore, the space between the inner surface of the exterior sheet and the outer periphery of the electric wire can be made smaller than the space between the inner periphery of an exterior member such as a corrugated tube and the outer periphery of the electric wire. Therefore, the volume of air between the inner surface of the exterior sheet and the outer periphery of the electric wire can be made smaller, so that heat can be prevented from being trapped inside the exterior sheet. Furthermore, the distance between the inner surface of the exterior sheet and the outer periphery of the electric wire can be made shorter than the distance between the inner periphery of an exterior member such as a corrugated tube and the outer periphery of the electric wire. Therefore, when the electric wire generates heat when current is applied to the electric wire, the heat of the electric wire is easily dissipated from the exterior sheet to the outside of the wire harness. As a result, the heat dissipation performance of the wire harness can be improved.

[0012] In addition, the water-repellent portion on the outer surface of the exterior sheet repels water. Therefore, when the wire harness is wetted, the water adhering to the water-repellent portion is likely to fall off. Therefore, the water adhering to the water-repellent portion is prevented from penetrating into the wire harness. Therefore, the deterioration of the waterproof property of the wire harness is prevented.

[0013] [2] It is preferable to have an exterior member that covers a part of the outer surface of the exterior sheet. According to this configuration, the exterior member can protect the electric wires and the portion of the exterior sheet that is disposed inside the exterior member.

[0014] [3] It is preferable that the exterior sheet has the water-repellent portion over at least the entire area of ​​the outer surface that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member. According to this configuration, even if water splashes on any part of the portion of the exterior sheet that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member, the water can be prevented from penetrating into the inside of the wire harness, thereby further preventing deterioration of the waterproof property of the wire harness.

[0015] [4] It is preferable that the exterior member is tubular and surrounds the outer periphery of the exterior sheet, and includes a first waterproof member that completely covers the outer periphery of both the end of the exterior sheet in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire and the connector.

[0016] According to this configuration, the first waterproofing member can prevent water from penetrating into the interior of the exterior sheet from the end of the exterior sheet in the longitudinal direction of the electric wires. Furthermore, the first waterproofing member can prevent water from penetrating into the interior of the connector. Therefore, deterioration of the waterproofing of the wire harness can be further prevented.

[0017] [5] It is preferable that the exterior member has a tubular shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet and includes a second waterproof member that fills a gap between the inner surface of the end region of the exterior member in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire and the outer surface.

[0018] According to this configuration, the second waterproofing member can prevent water from entering the inside of the exterior member from the end portion of the exterior member in the longitudinal direction of the electric wires, thereby further preventing deterioration of the waterproofing property of the wire harness.

[0019] [6] It is preferable that the exterior member has a tubular shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet and has a water drainage portion that penetrates from the inside to the outside of the exterior member in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the electric wire.

[0020] According to this configuration, when water penetrates into the exterior member, the water can be drained to the outside of the exterior member through the water draining portion. Also, the exterior member can protect the electric wires and the parts of the exterior sheet that are disposed inside the exterior member.

[0021] [7] It is preferable that the exterior sheet has the water-repellent portion over the entire outer surface. According to this configuration, even if water splashes on any part of the outer surface of the exterior sheet, the water can be prevented from penetrating into the inside of the wire harness. Therefore, the deterioration of the waterproofness of the wire harness can be further prevented. Moreover, an exterior sheet having a water-repellent portion on the entire outer surface is easier to manufacture than an exterior sheet having a water-repellent portion on a part of the outer surface.

[0022] [8] The exterior sheet is preferably a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric. According to this configuration, when the electric wires are bent during wiring of the wire harness, the exterior sheet can easily conform to the shape of the electric wires, so that wiring of the wire harness can be easily performed.

[0023] [9] The exterior sheet is preferably a woven fabric having resin fibers woven therein. According to this configuration, the exterior sheet can be easily wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire.

[10] It is preferable that the exterior sheet has a plurality of meshes, and the water-repellent portion is a film that covers the meshes.

[0024] According to this configuration, in areas where the water-repellent portion is located on the outer surface of the exterior sheet, even if the exterior sheet has a mesh, the water-repellent portion can prevent water from penetrating through the mesh into the inside of the exterior sheet.

[0025]

[11] The exterior sheet is preferably an elastomer sheet. According to this configuration, an exterior sheet having a water-repellent portion can be obtained without carrying out a water-repellent treatment, such as a water-repellent or waterproofing treatment, on the outer surface of the exterior sheet.

[0026]

[12] It is preferable that the connector has a connector housing that holds an end region of the electric wire in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire inside, and a shield shell that covers at least a part of the outer surface of the connector housing, and is provided with a braided member that covers an outer periphery of the electric wire and contacts the shield shell, and the exterior sheet is wrapped around the outer periphery of the braided member.

[0027] According to this configuration, the exterior sheet can prevent water from adhering to the braided member. [Details of the embodiment of the present disclosure] Specific examples of the wire harness of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, for convenience of explanation, some of the configurations may be exaggerated or simplified. In each drawing, the dimensional ratio of each part may differ from the actual one or from that in another drawing. In this specification, "orthogonal" does not only mean strictly orthogonal, but also means roughly orthogonal within the range of the effect of the present embodiment. In addition, the term "cylindrical" used in this specification includes not only those in which a peripheral wall is formed continuously around the entire circumference, but also those in which a plurality of parts are combined to form a cylindrical shape, and those having a gap in a part of the circumference such as a C-shape. In addition, the outer edge shape of "cylindrical" includes, but is not limited to, a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon with sharp or rounded corners. In addition, the term "annular" used in the description of this specification may refer to any structure that forms a loop, or a continuous shape without ends, as well as a structure that forms a loop shape as a whole. The shape of "annular" includes, but is not limited to, a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon with sharp or rounded corners. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0028] First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the wire harness will be described. (Overall configuration of the wire harness 10) A wire harness 10 shown in FIG. 1 is mounted on a vehicle such as a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle. The wire harness 10 electrically connects two or more in-vehicle devices. For example, the wire harness 10 electrically connects two in-vehicle devices. Examples of the in-vehicle devices include a high-voltage battery, an inverter, a motor, and an electrical connection box. The electrical connection box houses a device that supplies power and / or transmits signals to the in-vehicle devices. Examples of the electrical connection box include a relay box, a fuse box, and a junction box. The wire harness 10 electrically connects, for example, an inverter and a motor.

[0029] The wire harness 10 includes at least one electric wire 20, a connector 30 provided at an end of the electric wire 20, and an exterior sheet 40 covering the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The wire harness 10 may also include a braided member 50 covering the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The wire harness 10 includes, for example, two electric wires 20. The wire harness 10 also includes, for example, two connectors 30.

[0030] (Configuration of electric wire 20) As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, each electric wire 20 has a conductive core wire 21 and an insulating coating 22 that surrounds the outer periphery of the core wire 21 and has insulating properties.

[0031] For example, a stranded wire made by stranding a plurality of metal wires, a columnar conductor made of a single metal rod having a solid structure, or a tubular conductor having a hollow structure can be used as the core wire 21. Also, a combination of at least two of the stranded wire, columnar conductor, and tubular conductor can be used as the core wire 21. For example, a metal material such as a copper-based or aluminum-based material can be used as the material of the core wire 21.

[0032] The insulating coating 22, for example, covers the outer periphery of the core wire 21 over the entire circumferential direction around the center line L1 of the electric wire 20. The insulating coating 22 is made of, for example, a resin material having insulating properties.

[0033] In the drawing, a center line L1 of the electric wire 20 is illustrated by a dashed line. The center line L1 is a line passing through the center of a cross section of the electric wire 20. A length direction X1 of the electric wire 20 is a direction in which the electric wire 20 extends and is a direction along the center line L1.

[0034] Here, of both ends of each electric wire 20 in the length direction X1, one end is referred to as a first end 23a, and the other end is referred to as a second end 23b. (Configuration of Connector 30) 1, one of the two connectors 30 is provided at a first end 23a of each of the electric wires 20. The other of the two connectors 30 is provided at a second end 23b of each of the electric wires 20. Here, the connector 30 provided at the first end 23a is referred to as a first connector 31, and the connector 30 provided at the second end 23b is referred to as a second connector 32.

[0035] The first connector 31 and the second connector 32 have, for example, the same configuration. Therefore, only the configuration of the first connector 31 will be described, and a description of the configuration of the second connector 32 will be omitted. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the first connector 31 has, for example, terminals 33 electrically connected to each electric wire 20, a connector housing 34 that holds the terminals 33, and a shield shell 35 that covers at least a portion of the outer surface of the connector housing 34.

[0036] (Terminal 33 Configuration) The material of each terminal 33 may be, for example, a metal material such as copper or aluminum. The first end 23a of each electric wire 20 is electrically connected to each terminal 33. In an end region including the first end 23a of each electric wire 20, the insulating coating 22 is removed to expose the core wire 21. In the end region including the first end 23a of each electric wire 20, the core wire 21 is electrically connected to each terminal 33. The core wire 21 is electrically connected to the terminal 33 by, for example, any one of welding and crimping. Each terminal 33 is electrically connected to a different mating terminal provided in the in-vehicle device. The in-vehicle device and the electric wire 20 are electrically connected via each terminal 33.

[0037] (Configuration of connector housing 34) The connector housing 34 is provided at the first end 23a of each of the electric wires 20. The connector housing 34 holds an end region including the first end 23a of each of the electric wires 20 inside. Therefore, the first end 23a of each of the electric wires 20 is disposed inside the connector housing 34. The connector housing 34 also holds each of the terminals 33 inside the connector housing 34. The connector housing 34 accommodates a connection portion between each of the terminals 33 and each of the electric wires 20 inside the connector housing 34. Each of the electric wires 20 protrudes from the connector housing 34 to the outside of the connector housing 34, for example, along the length direction X1. The connector housing 34 is made of, for example, an insulating resin material.

[0038] (Shield Shell 35 Configuration) The shield shell 35 has, for example, an annular shape surrounding the entire outer periphery of the connector housing 34 when viewed in the longitudinal direction X1. The shield shell 35 has, for example, a cylindrical shape extending in the longitudinal direction X1. A conductive material is used as the material for the shield shell 35. For example, an aluminum-based metallic material is used as the material for the shield shell 35.

[0039] (Configuration of braided member 50) As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the braided member 50 is formed by braiding a plurality of metal wires into, for example, a cylindrical shape. For example, a copper-based or aluminum-based metal material can be used as the material of the braided member 50. For example, copper is used as the material of the braided member 50. The braided member 50 collectively covers, for example, the outer periphery of two electric wires 20. Also, the braided member 50 surrounds, for example, the entire outer periphery of the two electric wires 20 as viewed from the length direction X1. Furthermore, the braided member 50 covers, for example, a portion between the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 of each electric wire 20 over the entire length direction X1. The braided member 50 may be in contact with at least a part of the outer periphery of the electric wire 20.

[0040] The braided member 50 contacts the shield shell 35 of the first connector 31. That is, the braided member 50 has a contact portion 51 that contacts the shield shell 35 of the first connector 31. The contact portion 51 is, for example, an end region of the braided member 50 including one of both ends of the braided member 50 in the longitudinal direction X1. The contact portion 51 surrounds, for example, the entire outer periphery of the shield shell 35. And, for example, the inner circumferential surface of the contact portion 51 contacts the outer circumferential surface of the shield shell 35.

[0041] The wire harness 10 may include a fastening member 52 that fixes the contact portion 51 to the shield shell 35 of the first connector 31. The fastening member 52 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the contact portion 51. The fastening member 52 fastens the contact portion 51 and the shield shell 35. The contact portion 51 is sandwiched between the outer periphery of the shield shell 35 and the fastening member 52, and is in contact with both the shield shell 35 and the fastening member 52. The fastening member 52 may be, for example, a stainless steel band.

[0042] The braided member 50 also contacts the shield shell 35 of the second connector 32 in a similar manner. An end region of the braided member 50, including the other end of both ends of the braided member 50 in the longitudinal direction X1, contacts the shield shell 35 of the second connector 32, for example.

[0043] (Configuration of exterior sheet 40) As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the exterior sheet 40 is composed of a sheet-like member. For example, woven fabric or nonwoven fabric can be used for the exterior sheet 40. For example, a woven fabric with resin fibers woven therein can be used for the exterior sheet 40. An example of a woven fabric with resin fibers woven therein is a twisted tube. The twisted tube is a woven fabric with woven PE (polyester) fibers such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or aramid fibers rolled into a cylindrical shape. The twisted tube has a structure in which resin fibers are woven, and thus has a mesh. For example, the exterior sheet 40 is a twisted tube.

[0044] The exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the two electric wires 20. When viewed from the longitudinal direction X1, the exterior sheet 40 covers the entire outer periphery of the two electric wires 20. In a state where the exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wires 20, the exterior sheet 40 forms a tubular shape extending in the longitudinal direction X1. Note that the exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the braided member 50, and is thereby wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wires 20 via the braided member 50.

[0045] 1 and 3, the length of the exterior sheet 40 in the longitudinal direction X1 is shorter than, for example, the length of the electric wires 20 in the longitudinal direction X1. Moreover, the length of the exterior sheet 40 in the longitudinal direction X1 is shorter than, for example, the length of the braided member 50 in the longitudinal direction X1. Then, each of the electric wires 20 and the braided member 50 protrudes from both ends of the exterior sheet 40 in the longitudinal direction X1 to the outside of the exterior sheet 40 along the longitudinal direction X1.

[0046] The wire harness 10 may include tape members 61 that fix end regions at both ends of the exterior sheet 40 in the length direction X1 to the braided member 50. The tape members 61 are, for example, adhesive tapes. The tape members 61 suppress misalignment of the exterior sheet 40 with respect to the electric wires 20 and the braided member 50.

[0047] The wire harness 10 may also include a fixing member (not shown) that is wrapped around at least one location of the exterior sheet 40 in the length direction X1. For example, any one of an adhesive tape and a cable tie can be used as the fixing member. The fixing member prevents the exterior sheet 40 from being deformed so that the outer diameter of the exterior sheet 40 increases, thereby preventing at least one of the electric wires 20 and the braided member 50 from being exposed. In other words, the exterior sheet 40 is easily maintained in a cylindrical shape by the fixing member.

[0048] The inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 may be in contact with the braided member 50. For example, the entire inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 may be in contact with the braided member 50. Here, the inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 is a surface that faces the inside of the exterior sheet 40 when the exterior sheet 40 is in a cylindrical state, and is a surface that is exposed to the inside of the exterior sheet 40. On the other hand, the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 is a surface that is exposed to the outside of the exterior sheet 40 when the exterior sheet 40 is in a cylindrical state.

[0049] (Configuration of exterior member 70) 1, the wire harness 10 may further include an exterior member 70 that covers a part of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40. The wire harness 10 may include only one exterior member 70, or may include a plurality of exterior members 70. However, the exterior sheet 40 has a part that is not covered by the exterior member 70 and is exposed to the outside. That is, the exterior sheet 40 has a part that is exposed to the outside of the wire harness 10.

[0050] The exterior member 70 covers a portion of the exterior sheet 40 that may come into contact with components arranged around the wire harness 10 when the wire harness 10 is mounted on a vehicle. In addition, the exterior member 70 covers a portion of the exterior sheet 40 that may be hit by flying stones when the wire harness 10 is routed to pass under the floor of the vehicle.

[0051] The exterior member 70 has, for example, a cylindrical shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40. The exterior member 70 is, for example, a cylindrical corrugated tube surrounding the entire outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40 as viewed from the longitudinal direction X1. Note that the exterior member 70 is not limited to a corrugated tube, and may be a protector covering a part of the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40 as viewed from the longitudinal direction X1.

[0052] (Configuration of first waterproofing member 80) As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the wire harness 10 may further include a first waterproofing member 80. Here, one end of the exterior sheet 40 in the length direction X1 is referred to as a first end 43a, and the other end is referred to as a second end 43b. The first end 43a is located close to the first connector 31. The second end 43b is located close to the second connector 32. The wire harness 10 includes, for example, two first waterproofing members 80. One first waterproofing member 80 covers the entire outer periphery of both the first end 43a and the first connector 31. The other first waterproofing member 80 covers the entire outer periphery of both the second end 43b and the second connector 32.

[0053] The two first waterproofing members 80 have, for example, the same configuration. Therefore, the configuration of only one of the first waterproofing members 80 that covers the first end portion 43a and the first connector 31 will be described, and a description of the other first waterproofing member 80 will be omitted.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 3, the first waterproofing member 80 collectively covers both the first end 43a and the first connector 31. The first waterproofing member 80 has an annular shape surrounding the outer periphery of the first connector 31 and the exterior sheet 40 over the entire circumference when viewed from the longitudinal direction X1. The first waterproofing member 80 has a first end 81a and a second end 81b, and is tubular and extends continuously from the first end 81a to the second end 81b along the longitudinal direction X1. The first end 81a surrounds the outer periphery of the first connector 31 over the entire circumference when viewed from the longitudinal direction X1. The second end 81b surrounds the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40 over the entire circumference when viewed from the longitudinal direction X1.

[0055] Between the first end 81a and the second end 81b in the length direction X1, for example, the contact portion 51 that contacts the shield shell 35 of the first connector 31 and the fastening member 52 that is wound around the contact portion 51 are located. Then, for example, the contact portion 51 and the fastening member 52 that is wound around the contact portion 51 are located inside the first waterproofing member 80. Furthermore, between the first end 81a and the second end 81b in the length direction X1, for example, the end of the braided member 50 that is closer to the first connector 31 among both ends in the length direction X1 and the first end 43a of the exterior sheet 40 are located. Then, for example, the end of the braided member 50 that is closer to the first connector 31 among both ends in the length direction X1 and the first end 43a are located inside the first waterproofing member 80. The first waterproofing member 80 prevents water from splashing on a portion of the wire harness 10 that is located inside the first waterproofing member 80.

[0056] The first waterproofing member 80 may have a first contact portion 82 that is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the first connector 31 over the entire circumference. The first waterproofing member 80 has the first contact portion 82, for example, in an end region including a first end portion 81a of the first waterproofing member 80. The first contact portion 82 is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the shield shell 35 of the first connector 31, for example. The first contact portion 82 prevents water from entering the inside of the first waterproofing member 80 from between the outer circumferential surface of the first connector 31 and the inner circumferential surface of the first waterproofing member 80.

[0057] The first waterproof member 80 may have a second contact portion 83 that is in close contact with the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 over the entire periphery. The first waterproof member 80 has the second contact portion 83, for example, in an end region including the second end portion 81b of the first waterproof member 80. The second contact portion 83 prevents water from penetrating into the first waterproof member 80 from between the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 and the inner circumferential surface of the first waterproof member 80.

[0058] For example, a rubber boot can be used as the first waterproofing member 80. The first waterproofing member 80 is not limited to a rubber boot, and any member made of a water-impermeable material, such as an adhesive tape or a heat shrink tube, can be used. When an adhesive tape is used as the first waterproofing member 80, the adhesive tape is spirally wound from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector 31 to an end region of the exterior sheet 40 including the first end 43a to form the adhesive tape into a cylindrical shape.

[0059] (Configuration of second waterproofing member 90) As shown in FIG. 4, the wire harness 10 may further include a second waterproof member 90. The wire harness 10 includes, for example, two second waterproof members 90. Note that FIG. 4 illustrates only one of the two second waterproof members 90. The second waterproof members 90 are disposed at both ends of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1. A gap G1 is present between the inner circumferential surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40. The second waterproof member 90 closes the gap G1. By closing the gap G1, the second waterproof member 90 suppresses water from penetrating into the interior of the exterior member 70 from between the inner circumferential surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40.

[0060] For example, a rubber stopper can be used as the second waterproof member 90. When a rubber stopper is used as the second waterproof member 90, the second waterproof member 90 is annular and disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40. The outer circumferential surface of the second waterproof member 90 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 over the entire circumference. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface of the second waterproof member 90 is in close contact with the outer surface 42 over the entire circumference. Note that the second waterproof member 90 is not limited to a rubber stopper, and any member made of a water-impermeable material, such as an adhesive tape, a rubber boot, or a heat-shrinkable tube, can be used.

[0061] (Configuration of water-repellent portion 45) 1 and 2, the exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 having water-repellent properties on at least a part of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40. The water-repellent portion 45 causes the outer surface 42 to repel water. The exterior sheet 40 may have the water-repellent portion 45 over at least the entire range of the outer surface 42 that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member 70. For example, the exterior sheet 40 has the water-repellent portion 45 over the entire outer surface 42.

[0062] The water-repellent portion 45 is a portion of the outer surface 42 to which, for example, a fluorine-based water-repellent agent or a silicon-based waterproof agent that imparts a water-repellent function to the outer surface 42 is applied. For example, a water-repellent spray can be used to apply the water-repellent agent to the outer surface 42. For example, a waterproof spray can be used to apply the waterproof agent to the outer surface 42. By using a water-repellent spray or a waterproof spray, the water-repellent portion 45 can be easily provided on the outer surface 42. The water-repellent agent or the waterproof agent can be applied to the outer surface 42 either before the exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20 or after it is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20.

[0063] (Operation of the first embodiment) The operation of this embodiment will be described. The exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. This makes it possible to reduce the space between the exterior sheet 40 and the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. For example, the exterior sheet 40 can be arranged in a state in which it is in contact with the braided member 50 arranged on the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. This makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the air layer between the exterior sheet 40 and the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. In addition, when the electric wire 20 generates heat due to energization or the like, the heat is easily transferred from the electric wire 20 to the exterior sheet 40.

[0064] Furthermore, when water adheres to the water-repellent portion 45 on the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40, the water is easily repelled and dropped by the water-repellent function of the water-repellent portion 45. Therefore, the water is prevented from penetrating into the interior of the exterior sheet 40.

[0065] The effects of this embodiment will be described. (1-1) The wire harness 10 includes at least one electric wire 20 and a connector 30 provided at an end of the electric wire 20. The wire harness 10 also includes an exterior sheet 40 surrounding an outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. The exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 having water-repellent properties on at least a part of an outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40.

[0066] According to this configuration, the exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. Therefore, the space between the inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 and the outer periphery of the electric wire 20 can be made smaller than the space between the inner periphery of an exterior member such as a corrugated tube and the outer periphery of the electric wire. Therefore, the volume of air between the inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 and the outer periphery of the electric wire 20 can be made smaller, so that heat can be prevented from being trapped inside the exterior sheet 40. In addition, the distance between the inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 and the outer periphery of the electric wire 20 can be made shorter than the distance between the inner periphery of an exterior member such as a corrugated tube and the outer periphery of the electric wire. Therefore, when the electric wire 20 generates heat when current is applied to the electric wire 20, the heat of the electric wire 20 is easily dissipated from the exterior sheet 40 to the outside of the wire harness 10. As a result, the heat dissipation property of the wire harness 10 can be improved.

[0067] In addition, the water-repellent portion 45 on the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 repels water. Therefore, when the wire harness 10 is wetted, the water adhering to the water-repellent portion 45 easily falls off. Therefore, the water adhering to the water-repellent portion 45 is prevented from penetrating into the wire harness 10. Therefore, the deterioration of the waterproof property of the wire harness 10 is prevented.

[0068] (1-2) The wire harness 10 includes an exterior member 70 that covers a portion of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 . According to this configuration, the exterior member 70 can protect the electric wires 20 and the parts of the exterior sheet 40 that are disposed inside the exterior member 70 .

[0069] (1-3) The exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 over at least the entire area of ​​the outer surface 42 that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member 70 . According to this configuration, even if water splashes on any part of the exterior sheet 40 that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member 70, the water can be prevented from penetrating into the wire harness 10. Therefore, deterioration of the waterproofness of the wire harness 10 can be further prevented.

[0070] (1-4) The exterior member 70 has a tubular shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40. The wire harness 10 includes a first waterproof member 80 that covers the entire outer periphery of both the first end portion 43a of the exterior sheet 40 and the first connector 31. The wire harness 10 further includes a first waterproof member 80 that covers the entire outer periphery of both the second end portion 43b of the exterior sheet 40 and the second connector 32.

[0071] According to this configuration, the first waterproofing members 80 can prevent water from penetrating into the interior of the exterior sheet 40 from the first end 43a or the second end 43b. Furthermore, the first waterproofing members 80 can prevent water from penetrating into the interior of the first connector 31 and the second connector 32. Therefore, deterioration of the waterproofness of the wire harness 10 can be further prevented.

[0072] Moreover, the first waterproofing member 80 of this embodiment accommodates the portion of the braided member 50 exposed from the first end 43a to the outside of the exterior sheet 40 on the inside. Therefore, it is possible to suppress water from adhering to the portion of the braided member 50 exposed from the first end 43a to the outside of the exterior sheet 40. Furthermore, the first waterproofing member 80 of this embodiment accommodates the contact portion 51 and the fastening member 52 on the inside. Therefore, it is possible to suppress water from adhering to the contact portion 51 and the fastening member 52. Therefore, even if the contact portion 51 and the shield shell 35 are made of different types of metals, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of galvanic corrosion. Similarly, even if the contact portion 51 and the fastening member 52 are made of different types of metals, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of galvanic corrosion.

[0073] (1-5) The exterior member 70 has a tubular shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40. The wire harness 10 includes a second waterproofing member 90 that closes a gap G1 between an inner circumferential surface and an outer surface 42 of an end region of the exterior member 70 in the longitudinal direction X1.

[0074] According to this configuration, the second waterproofing member 90 can prevent water from entering the interior of the exterior member 70 from the end of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1. Therefore, deterioration of the waterproofness of the wire harness 10 can be further prevented.

[0075] (1-6) The exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 over the entire outer surface 42. According to this configuration, even if water splashes on any part of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40, the water can be prevented from penetrating into the wire harness 10. This further prevents deterioration of the waterproof property of the wire harness 10. Moreover, compared with an exterior sheet having the water-repellent portion 45 partially on the outer surface 42, an exterior sheet 40 having the water-repellent portion 45 on the entire outer surface 42 can be manufactured more easily.

[0076] (1-7) The exterior sheet 40 is a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric. With this configuration, when the electric wires 20 are bent during wiring of the wire harness 10, the exterior sheet 40 can easily follow the shape of the electric wires 20. Therefore, the wiring of the wire harness 10 can be easily performed.

[0077] (1-8) The exterior sheet 40 is a woven fabric having resin fibers woven in. With this configuration, the exterior sheet 40 can be easily wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wire 20. (1-9) The connector 30 has a connector housing 34 that holds an end region of the electric wire 20 in the longitudinal direction X1 therein, and a shield shell 35 that covers at least a part of the outer surface of the connector housing 34. The wire harness 10 includes a braided member 50 that covers the outer periphery of the electric wire 20 and is in contact with the shield shell 35. The exterior sheet 40 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the braided member 50.

[0078] According to this configuration, the exterior sheet 40 can prevent water from adhering to the braided member 50. This can prevent water from running down the braided member 50 to the contact portion 51. As a result, even if the braided member 50 and the shield shell 35 are made of different types of metals, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of galvanic corrosion at the contact portion between the braided member 50 and the shield shell 35. Similarly, even if the braided member 50 and the fastening member 52 are made of different types of metals, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of galvanic corrosion. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the metal wires constituting the braided member 50 from being cut due to corrosion, and therefore it is possible to prevent the electromagnetic shielding performance of the braided member 50 from being reduced.

[0079] <Second embodiment> Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the wire harness will be described. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment or the corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] (Overall configuration of wire harness 10A) As shown in FIG. 6, a wire harness 10A of the second embodiment has a configuration in which an exterior sheet 40A is provided instead of the exterior sheet 40 in the wire harness 10 of the first embodiment.

[0081] (Configuration of exterior sheet 40A) The exterior sheet 40A is an elastomer sheet. The elastomer used has water-repellent properties. Therefore, the entire outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40A is water-repellent. In other words, the exterior sheet 40A has a water-repellent portion 45 over the entire outer surface 42.

[0082] The exterior sheet 40A is wrapped around the electric wires 20, for example, from above the braided member 50. When viewed from the longitudinal direction X1, the exterior sheet 40A covers the entire outer circumference of the two electric wires 20. The exterior sheet 40A has a tubular shape extending in the longitudinal direction X1 while being wrapped around the outer circumference of the electric wires 20. The length of the exterior sheet 40A in the longitudinal direction X1 is equal to the length of the exterior sheet 40 of the first embodiment in the longitudinal direction X1, for example. The exterior sheet 40 is fixed to the braided member 50 by, for example, a tape member 61. The inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40A may be in contact with the braided member 50. For example, the entire inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40A may be in contact with the braided member 50.

[0083] (Configuration of second waterproofing member 90A) As shown in Fig. 5, the wire harness 10A may include a second waterproof member 90A instead of the second waterproof member 90 of the first embodiment. The wire harness 10A includes, for example, two second waterproof members 90A. Note that Fig. 5 illustrates only one of the two second waterproof members 90A. The second waterproof members 90A are disposed at both ends of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1.

[0084] An adhesive tape may be used as the second waterproofing member 90A. The second waterproofing member 90A is continuously wound in a spiral shape around the outer peripheral surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40A adjacent to the end region in the length direction X1. The second waterproofing member 90A has a tubular shape extending in the length direction X1. The second waterproofing member 90A is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 over the entire circumference. Furthermore, the second waterproofing member 90A is in close contact with the outer surface 42 over the entire circumference. In this way, the second waterproofing member 90A closes the gap G1 between the inner peripheral surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the length direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40A. The second waterproofing member 90A blocks the gap G1, thereby preventing water from penetrating into the interior of the exterior member 70 from between the inner surface of the end region of the exterior member 70 in the longitudinal direction X1 and the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40A.

[0085] According to the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment are achieved. According to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects (1-1) to (1-6) and (1-9) of the first embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0086] (2-1) The exterior sheet 40A is an elastomer sheet. With this configuration, the exterior sheet 40A having the water-repellent portion 45 can be obtained without performing a water-repellent treatment or a waterproofing treatment or the like on the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40A.

[0087] The above-described embodiments may be modified as follows: The above-described embodiments and the following modifications may be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs. The braided member 50 may be a braided member of multiple metal wires braided into a sheet shape other than a braided member 50 in which multiple metal wires are braided into a tube shape. In this case, the braided member 50 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the electric wires 20. Each of the wire harnesses 10, 10A may include a metal foil instead of the braided member 50. In this case, the same effect as that of the first embodiment (1-9) can be achieved.

[0088] In the first embodiment, the wire harness 10 does not need to include the braided member 50. In this case, the inner surface 41 of the exterior sheet 40 may contact the outer peripheral surface of the electric wire 20. That is, the exterior sheet 40 may contact the outer peripheral surface of a component that is disposed inside the exterior sheet 40 and is adjacent to the component in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X1. The same may be true for the wire harness 10A of the second embodiment.

[0089] The connector 30 does not need to include the shield shell 35. The exterior sheet 40A of the second embodiment may have a plurality of projections and recesses on at least one of the outer surface 42 and the inner surface 41. In this way, when the electric wires 20 are bent during wiring of the wire harness 10A, the exterior sheet 40A can easily follow the shape of the electric wires 20. Therefore, the wiring of the wire harness 10A can be easily performed.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 7, when a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric is used for the exterior sheet 40, the exterior sheet 40 has a plurality of meshes 101. Also, when a sheet-like material other than a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric is used for the exterior sheet 40, the exterior sheet 40 may have a plurality of meshes 101. Therefore, in the wire harness 10 of the first embodiment, the water-repellent portion 45 may be a film that blocks the meshes 101. In this way, in a portion of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40 where the water-repellent portion 45 is located, even if the exterior sheet 40 has the meshes 101, the water-repellent portion 45 can suppress water from penetrating into the inside of the exterior sheet 40 through the meshes 101. As a result, the waterproofness of the wire harness 10 can be improved.

[0091] The exterior member 70B shown in FIG. 8 may be provided in the wire harness 10 of the first embodiment. The exterior member 70B is provided in the wire harness 10 instead of the exterior member 70 of the first embodiment. The exterior member 70B covers a part of the outer surface 42 of the exterior sheet 40. The exterior member 70B is tubular and surrounds the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40. The exterior member 70B is, for example, a corrugated tube that surrounds the outer periphery of the exterior sheet 40. The exterior member 70B has a water draining portion 71 that penetrates the interior and exterior of the exterior member 70B along a direction intersecting the length direction X1. The water draining portion 71 penetrates the interior and exterior of the exterior member 70B along, for example, a direction perpendicular to the length direction X1. The water draining portion 71 is, for example, slit-shaped and extends in the length direction X1. In FIG. 8, the length direction X1 corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. The shape of the water drainage portion 71 is not limited to a slit shape, and may be, for example, a hole shape, as long as it can drain water from the inside of the exterior member 70B to the outside. In this way, when water infiltrates into the interior of the exterior member 70B, the water can be drained to the outside of the exterior member 70B from the water drainage portion 71. In this case, it is preferable that the exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 over at least the entire outer surface 42 of the portion of the exterior sheet 40 that is disposed inside the exterior member 70B.

[0092] Similarly, in the wire harness 10A of the second embodiment, the exterior member 70 may be changed to the exterior member 70B. In this case, the wire harness 10A does not need to include the second waterproofing member 90.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the exterior sheet 40 has the water-repellent portion 45 over the entire outer surface 42. However, it is sufficient that the exterior sheet 40 has the water-repellent portion 45 on at least a part of the outer surface 42. For example, the exterior sheet 40 may have the water-repellent portion 45 only on a part of the outer surface 42 that may be wetted when the wire harness 10 is mounted on a vehicle. Also, for example, the exterior sheet 40 may have the water-repellent portion 45 on a part of the outer surface 42 that includes a range of the outer surface 42 that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member 70.

[0094] In the first embodiment, the wire harness 10 may include the second waterproof member 90A of the second embodiment instead of the second waterproof member 90. In the second embodiment, the wire harness 10A may include the second waterproof member 90 of the first embodiment instead of the second waterproof member 90A.

[0095] In the first embodiment, the wire harness 10 does not need to include either one of the two second waterproof members 90. Furthermore, the wire harness 10 does not need to include the second waterproof member 90. In this case, it is preferable that the exterior sheet 40 has a water-repellent portion 45 over at least the entire outer surface 42 of the portion of the exterior sheet 40 that is disposed inside the exterior member 70.

[0096] Similarly, in the second embodiment, the wire harness 10A does not necessarily have to include either one of the two second waterproofing members 90A. Also, the wire harness 10A does not necessarily have to include the second waterproofing member 90A.

[0097] In the first embodiment, the shape of the first waterproofing member 80 may be changed. The first waterproofing member 80 may have a shape that covers the outer peripheries of both the first end 43a and the first connector 31 collectively over the entire circumference. The first waterproofing member 80 may have a shape that covers the outer peripheries of both the second end 43b and the second connector 32 collectively over the entire circumference. For example, the first waterproofing member 80 may not have the second contact portion 83. In this case, it is preferable that the wire harness 10 is mounted on the vehicle in a state in which the second end 81b is located lower than the first end 81a. The second embodiment may also be changed in the same manner.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the wire harness 10 does not need to include the first waterproofing member 80. The same applies to the wire harness 10A of the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, the wire harness 10 does not need to include the exterior member 70. The same applies to the wire harness 10A of the second embodiment.

[0099] In the first embodiment, the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 may have different configurations. Furthermore, the wire harness 10 may have only one of the first connector 31 and the second connector 32. The second embodiment may also be modified in a similar manner.

[0100] The number of electric wires 20 included in the wire harness 10 of the first embodiment is not limited to two, and may be one, or three or more. The number of connectors 30 included in the wire harness 10 may be changed as appropriate depending on the number of electric wires 20 and the specifications of the wire harness 10.

[0101] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above meaning, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 10,10A Wire Harness 20 Electric wire 21 Core Wire 22 Insulation coating 23a First end 23b Second end 30 Connectors 31 1st connector (connector) 32 Second connector (connector) 33 Terminal 34 Connector housing 35 Shield Shell 40,40A Exterior sheet 41 Inside 42 Exterior 43a First end 43b Second end 45 Water-repellent section 50 Braided material 51 Contact part 52 Fastening member 61 Tape material 70,70B Exterior materials 71 Water draining section 80 First waterproofing component 81a First end 81b Second end 82 First contact part 83 Second contact part 90,90A Second waterproof member 101 Mesh G1 Gap L1 center line X1 Length direction

Claims

1. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, an exterior member covering a part of the outer surface of the exterior sheet; The exterior member has a cylindrical shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet, A wire harness comprising a second waterproofing member that seals a gap between an inner circumferential surface and an outer surface of an end region of the exterior member in a longitudinal direction of the electric wire.

2. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, an exterior member covering a part of the outer surface of the exterior sheet; The exterior member is tubular and surrounds the outer periphery of the exterior sheet, and has a water drainage portion that penetrates from the inside to the outside of the exterior member along a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the electric wires.

3. 3. The wire harness according to claim 1, wherein the exterior sheet has the water-repellent portion over at least an entire area of ​​the outer surface that is exposed to the outside of the exterior member.

4. The exterior member has a cylindrical shape surrounding the outer periphery of the exterior sheet, 4. The wire harness according to claim 1, further comprising a first waterproofing member covering an outer periphery of both an end of the exterior sheet in a length direction of the electric wires and an outer periphery of the connector over the entire periphery.

5. The wire harness according to claim 1 , wherein the exterior sheet has the water-repellent portion over the entire outer surface.

6. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, The exterior sheet of the wire harness is a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric.

7. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, The exterior sheet of the wire harness is a woven fabric having resin fibers woven therein.

8. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, The exterior sheet has a plurality of meshes, The water-repellent portion of the wire harness is a film that covers the mesh.

9. The wire harness according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the exterior sheet is an elastomer sheet.

10. At least one electrical wire; A wire harness comprising: a connector provided at an end of the electric wire, An exterior sheet is provided surrounding the outer periphery of the electric wire, the exterior sheet is wrapped around an outer periphery of the electric wire, and has a water-repellent portion having water repellency on at least a part of an outer surface of the exterior sheet, The connector includes a connector housing that holds an end region of the electric wire in a longitudinal direction thereof, and a shield shell that covers at least a portion of an outer surface of the connector housing, a braided member covering an outer periphery of the electric wire and in contact with the shield shell, The exterior sheet is wrapped around the outer periphery of the braided member of the wire harness.

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