Circuit element connection structure and circuit element connection structure unit

Abstract

To constitute a circuit element connection structure in which a connection terminal can be arranged at an arbitrary position and the circuit element and the connection terminal can be easily electrically connected to each other.SOLUTION: A circuit element connection structure includes a plate-shaped substrate 1 made of an insulating material and formed with an opening 1a penetrating in the thickness direction, a circuit element 2 made of a conductive material and arranged on one side of the substrate 1 in the thickness direction, and a connection member 3 made of a conductive material and arranged on the other side in the thickness direction of the substrate 1, and the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are provided in a contact state at a position overlapping the opening 1a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a circuit element connection structure and a circuit element connection structure unit.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a connection method in which a metal wire is wired on a resin sheet, then wound around a terminal previously fixed to the resin sheet, and then welded.

[0003] In this Patent Document 1, as another connection method, with the cylindrical portion of the terminal penetrating the resin sheet and caulked and fixed, the metal wire is floated across the terminal and wired on the resin sheet, and then the metal wire and the terminal are welded at the portion of the metal wire straddling the terminal.

[0004] This Patent Document 1 describes that a lens is integrated by insert molding on a resin sheet on which a metal wire connected to a connection terminal is wired by these connection methods and used for a vehicle lamp.

[0005] Further, Patent Document 2 describes a connect structure in which the tip of a heating wire is connected to a connection terminal provided at the end of a heating sheet.

[0006] In this Patent Document 2, a configuration is described in which the tip of a heating wire sandwiched between two resin films is sandwiched between the tip of a harness and a connection terminal at the end of the heating sheet, thereby joining the heating wire and the harness.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] Patent Document 1 describes a method of providing connection terminals for energizing an electric signal or current to a circuit element. However, it is necessary to fix the connection terminals to the resin sheet before wiring the metal wires on the resin sheet. In this method, there is a high risk that the connection terminals will interfere with the wiring process and cause wiring defects during the step of wiring the metal wires. Also, due to the wiring defects, the connection terminals will be discarded.

[0009] In addition, in the case of a method of entangling metal wires with the connection terminals, it is necessary to use a dedicated jig or the like, resulting in poor workability and a risk of disconnection. In the method of connecting across the connection terminals, after welding the caulking portion, since the metal wires float from the resin sheet, there is a risk of disconnecting the metal wires floating from the resin sheet.

[0010] Patent Document 2 has a structure in which the tip of the heating wire is sandwiched between connection terminals. Therefore, in the case of an extremely thin heating wire, the workability becomes very poor. Also, since the heating wire is drawn out from the end of the resin film, the connection terminals can be arranged only at the ends of the resin film.

[0011] For these reasons, there is a need for a circuit element connection structure in which the electrical connection between a metal wire or heating wire as a circuit element and a connection terminal as a connection member is easy, and the connection member can be arranged at an arbitrary position on the resin sheet.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0012] A first characteristic configuration of the circuit element connection structure according to the present invention is a plate-like base material made of an insulating material and having an opening formed therethrough in the thickness direction, a circuit element made of a conductive material and arranged on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, and a connection member made of a conductive material and arranged on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, and being electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening.

[0013] According to this characteristic configuration 1, a circuit element is arranged at a position overlapping the opening on one side in the thickness direction of the base material, a connection member is arranged at a position overlapping the opening on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material, and in this state, the circuit element and the connection member can be electrically connected at a position overlapping the opening. That is, in this configuration, a circuit element made of a conductive material and a connection member are arranged at positions sandwiching the base material, and a state is created in which the operation of electrically connecting them at a position overlapping the opening can be easily performed. Therefore, for example, even when heat acts as in connection by soldering or welding, and even when the circuit element is an ultra-fine wiring, the workability is good and the work can be performed in a short time, so that the resin sheet can be prevented from being melted or discolored by heat.

[0014] Also, according to this configuration, since the connection terminal can make electrical connection with any part of the circuit element, the circuit element connection structure can be arranged at any position of the base material. Therefore, for example, when using this circuit element connection structure as a heater for an emblem cover, it is necessary to cover it with a resin cover having a surface for designing an emblem on the front surface of the base material. As a method of covering with a resin cover, there is a method of overmolding a circuit element connection structure unit having this circuit element connection structure. However, when installing the circuit element connection structure unit in the molding die during overmolding, it is necessary to have a die structure such that the resin does not cover the terminal part of the connection member. If the connection member is provided at the end of the base material, the structure must be such that the connection member is sandwiched by the molding die, which complicates the die structure and requires a high dimensional accuracy of the die and the circuit element connection structure unit. However, according to the above configuration, since the connection member can be arranged at any position on the opposite surface where the circuit element is arranged rather than at the end of the base material, if the connection member is surrounded by sandwiching the surrounding base material part without sandwiching the connection part with the molding die, resin covering of the terminal part can be easily prevented, so that the die structure does not become complicated and the dimensional accuracy requirement of the circuit element connection structure unit does not become strict. Furthermore, by making the connection part of the connection member into a terminal shape drawn out in the direction perpendicular to the base material, electrical connection with an external device can be easily performed using a harness or the like.

[0015] As a configuration of the feature configuration 2 added to the above feature configuration 1, the connection member has a convex portion protruding in the direction of the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and the protruding height may be set so that the convex portion abuts on the circuit element.

[0016] According to this, the workability of electrically connecting the circuit element and the connection member can be improved.

[0017] As a configuration of the feature configuration 3 added to the above feature configuration 1, a fastening member for integrating the connection member and the base material may be provided by penetrating an area outside the portion of the connection member overlapping the opening and an area outside the opening of the base material when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material.

[0018] Thereby, after wiring the circuit element on the base material, the connection member can be fixed to the base material, so the workability of the step of wiring the circuit element is good, and even if a defect occurs in the same step, the connection member is not lost.

[0019] As a configuration of the feature configuration 4 added to the above feature configuration 1 or 2, the connection member may have a fastening portion for integrating the connection member and the base material by penetrating an area outside the opening of the base material when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material.

[0020] Thereby, a separate fastening member becomes unnecessary, the number of parts is reduced, and the work is simplified, so that cost reduction can be achieved.

[0021] As a configuration of the characteristic configuration 5 added to the above characteristic configuration 1 or 2, it may include a fixing member disposed on the opposite side of the base material with respect to the connecting member at least at a position overlapping the opening, and the fastening member penetrates, in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, a region outside the portion of the connecting member overlapping the opening, a region outside the opening of the base material, and a region outside the portion of the fixing member overlapping the opening, thereby integrating the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member.

[0022] Thereby, the circuit element can be electrically connected by pressure welding by being sandwiched between the connecting member and the fixing member. Further, when the circuit element is a coated electric wire, by welding in a state where the circuit element is sandwiched between the connecting member and the fixing member, the circuit element can be electrically connected to the connecting member and the fixing member simultaneously.

[0023] As a configuration of the characteristic configuration 6 added to the above characteristic configuration 1 or 2, it includes a fixing member disposed on the opposite side of the base material with respect to the connecting member at least at a position overlapping the opening, and is integrally formed with either the connecting member or the fixing member, and in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, it penetrates a region outside the opening of the base material and a region outside the portion of the other of the connecting member and the fixing member that does not form an integral part and overlaps the opening, thereby having a fastening portion for integrating the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member.

[0024] Thereby, a separate fastening member is not required, so the number of parts is reduced and the work is simplified, thus reducing costs.

[0025] As a configuration of the characteristic configuration 7 added to the above characteristic configuration 5 or 6, the fixing member may have a hole or notch through which at least a part of the opening can be directly seen.

[0026] As a result, the circuit element and the connection part can be electrically connected by soldering or laser. Also, it is possible to electrically connect them by welding. In any connection method, the connection state can be visually confirmed.

[0027] As a configuration of the characteristic configuration 8 in addition to the above characteristic configuration 5 or 6, the fixing member may be at least two or more separate bodies so that at least a part of the opening can be directly viewed.

[0028] As a result, when the circuit element and the connection part are electrically connected by soldering or laser, the surgical field can be widened to improve workability.

[0029] As a configuration of the characteristic configuration 9 in addition to the above characteristic configuration 5 or 6, the fixing member has a convex portion that protrudes in the direction of the connection member at a portion overlapping the opening, and the protruding height of the convex portion and the amount of slack of the circuit element are set so that the circuit element abuts against the convex portion at a position where the circuit element overlaps the opening.

[0030] As a result, the circuit element and the connection part can be electrically connected by soldering or laser. Also, excessive tension is not applied to the circuit element due to the slack of the circuit element.

[0031] As a characteristic configuration 10 of the circuit element connection structure according to the present invention, there are provided: a plate-like base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction; a circuit element made of a conductive material and arranged on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material; a connection member made of a conductive material and arranged on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, the connection member having a hole or a notch through which at least a part of the opening can be directly seen; a fixing member made of a conductive material and arranged on the opposite side of the base material with respect to the connection member at least at a position overlapping the opening, the fixing member being electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening; and a fastening member made of a conductive material and penetrating through a region outside the portion of the connection member overlapping the opening, a region outside the opening of the base material, and a region outside the portion of the fixing member overlapping the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, thereby integrating the connection member, the base material, and the fixing member.

[0032] According to this characteristic configuration 10, when the circuit element and the connection portion are electrically connected by soldering or laser, since the hole or notch is provided on the side different from the surface on which the circuit element is arranged, for example, even if a resin cover is overmolded on the surface of the base material where the circuit element is arranged with a sealing material for protecting the connection portion, the sealing material and the resin cover can be prevented from contacting each other. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sealing material from being thermally deformed during overmolding. In addition, the selection range of the sealing material and the overmolding material is widened.

[0033] As a characteristic configuration 11 of the circuit element connection structure according to the present invention, there are provided a plate-like base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction, a circuit element made of a conductive material and disposed on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, a connection member made of a conductive material and disposed on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, the connection member having a hole or notch portion through which at least a part of the opening can be directly seen, a fixing member made of a conductive material and disposed on the opposite side of the base material with respect to the connection member at a position overlapping at least the opening, the fixing member being electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening, and a fastening portion made of a conductive material and integrally formed with either the connection member or the fixing member, the fastening portion penetrating through a region outside the opening in the base material and a region outside a portion overlapping the other opening not integrally formed among the connection member and the fixing member in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material, thereby integrating the connection member, the base material, and the fixing member.

[0034] According to this characteristic configuration 11, a separate fastening member is not required, so the number of parts is reduced and the work is simplified, thus reducing costs.

[0035] As a configuration of a characteristic configuration 12 in addition to the above characteristic configuration 10 or characteristic configuration 11, the fixing member may have a convex portion protruding in the direction of the connection member at a portion overlapping the opening, and the protruding height of the convex portion and the amount of slack of the circuit element may be set so that the circuit element abuts against the convex portion at a position overlapping the opening.

[0036] Thereby, in the operation of electrically connecting the circuit element and the convex portion, the connection position can be set at a height with good workability.

[0037] As a configuration of a characteristic configuration 13 in addition to any one of the above characteristic configurations 1 to 12, the connection member may have a terminal portion extending in the thickness direction of the base material.

[0038] Thus, by connecting an external device and a harness to the circuit element connection structure, it is possible to easily communicate electrical signals and conduct current.

[0039] As a configuration of feature configuration 14 added to any of the above feature configurations 1 to 13, a sealing material may be injected at a position overlapping the opening portion when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material to protect the electrical connection of the circuit element.

[0040] Thus, when overmolding the surface on which the circuit elements of the circuit element connection structure unit having the circuit element connection structure are wired by resin molding, it is possible to prevent the electrical connection of the circuit element connection structure from being damaged due to disconnection or peeling caused by the heat and molding pressure of the resin molding material. Further, when the unit is used as an in-vehicle device, it is possible to prevent the connection portion from being damaged due to vibration during running or corrosion due to the environment.

[0041] Feature configuration 15 of the circuit element connection structure unit according to the present invention is that, in the circuit element connection structure described in any of the above feature configurations 1 to 14, the circuit element connection structure is configured as one set near one end of the circuit element, and another set of circuit element connection structures is configured near the other end of the circuit element.

[0042] According to this feature configuration 15, the circuit element connection structure unit can be used as a heater that conducts current through the circuit element and utilizes Joule heat.

[0043] As a configuration of feature configuration 16 added to the above feature configuration 15, the circuit element may be overmolded by resin molding.

[0044] Thus, by integrally molding a cover decorated by transfer, printing, etc. and a circuit element connection structure unit using the circuit element connection structure, it can be used as an emblem cover or a sensor cover with a heater.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0045]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 〔Basic Configuration / First Embodiment〕 FIG. 1 shows a cross-section of a circuit element connection structure A used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure A includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3, and a fastening member 5.

[0047] The circuit element connection structure A shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 forms an opening 1a penetrating in the thickness direction in a base material 1 made of an insulating material such as resin, and arranges a circuit element 2 using a copper wire as an example of a conductive material on one surface of the base material 1. Further, in this circuit element connection structure A, a connection member 3 having a connection portion 3c (an example of a terminal portion) formed by a pressed metal plate is arranged on the other surface of the base material 1. Note that the base material 1 may be made of a paper material or a flexible material that can be bent flexibly. Also, as the conductive material, a copper foil formed by plating on the surface of the base material 1 or a copper foil adhered to the surface of the base material 1 may be used.

[0048] In the circuit element connection structure A of the first embodiment, a connection-side convex portion 3b (an example of a convex portion) formed on the connection member 3 protrudes from the opposite side of the base material 1 in the thickness direction with respect to the circuit element 2, and the connection member 3 and the base material 1 are fastened by a plurality of fastening members 5, thereby integrating the base material 1 and the connection member 3. The protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b is set and brought into contact with the circuit element 2 to create a state in which an electrical connection operation can be easily performed. Note that as the fastening member 5, a caulking method may be used either on the base material side or the connection member side with respect to the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0049] This circuit element connection structure A is assumed to realize an electrical connection between a circuit element 2 wired on a base material 1 and a connection member 3 in a unit used as a heater in an automobile emblem or a sensor cover unit. For example, as a heater for an emblem cover, the connection portion 3c of the connection member 3 may be connected using an automobile battery power circuit and a harness. The specific form in which the base material 1 is used is not limited to the first embodiment, and is common to the second to fourth embodiments described later.

[0050] 〔Configuration of each part of the circuit element connection structure〕 As partially described above, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base material 1 is formed of a sheet material or a film material made of an insulating material, and has an opening 1a penetrating in the thickness direction. A plurality of through holes 1h penetrating in the thickness direction of the base material 1 are formed at a plurality of locations in the vicinity of the opening 1a in the base material 1.

[0051] The circuit element 2 forms a circuit by wiring a copper wire on one surface of the base material 1. Incidentally, the circuit element 2 may form a circuit by wiring a metal wire other than copper or a coated electric wire, or may be a copper wire disposed on the surface of the base material 1 in an adhesive state.

[0052] The circuit element 2 is disposed at a position where a part thereof overlaps the opening 1a in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material 1. Since the copper wire is exposed on the surface in contact with the base material 1 and the surface opposite to the base material 1 of the circuit element 2, in the region overlapping the opening 1a, electrical connection can be made from both directions in a direction view along the thickness direction of the base material 1. Incidentally, the circuit element 2 may be a coated electric wire, and in that case, electrical connection can be made by melting the coating by heat or the like.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 2, the connection member 3 is formed as a connection terminal in which a flat support portion 3e and a connection portion 3c are integrated by pressing a metal plate, and a connection-side convex portion 3b is formed on the surface facing the opening 1a of the base material 1 at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 3e. In a state where the connection member 3 is attached to the base material 1, a connection-side fastening hole 3h is formed in a through-hole shape at a position overlapping the plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1.

[0054] The connection member 3 is formed of a conductive material made of a good conductor such as a copper alloy, and a connection-side convex portion 3b having a protruding height P set is integrally formed at a position where it abuts on the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a of the base material 1, and among the circuit elements 2, it is in contact with the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a.

[0055] In this circuit element connection structure A, as shown in FIG. 2, when the circuit element 2 is wired so that at least a part thereof is buried in the thickness direction of the base material 1, the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b is set to a value slightly smaller than the value of the base material thickness T as the thickness of the base material 1. The dimensional difference between the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b and the base material thickness T is assumed to be smaller than the thickness of the circuit element 2.

[0056] The fastening member 5 is formed of a plurality of rivets formed of a conductive material such as a metal material. Note that the fastening member 5 is not limited to rivets and may be composed of a screw and a nut made of a good conductor such as a metal material.

[0057] 〔Assembly〕 Since each part of the circuit element connection structure A of the first embodiment is configured in this way, the assembly is performed in the following order. That is, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, on the side opposite to the side where the circuit element 2 of the base material 1 is arranged, the connection member 3 is arranged on the opposite side while sandwiching the base material 1 so that the connection-side convex portion 3b contacts the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a.

[0058] Next, the fastening members 5 are respectively inserted into the connection-side fastening holes 3h of the connection member 3 and the plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1, and the base material 1 and the connection member 3 are integrated by caulking the respective fastening members 5 to apply pressure. Note that the side on which the fastening member 5 is caulked may be either surface side with respect to the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0059] In the integrated state in this way, a state in which the circuit element 2 is in contact with the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connection member 3 is created, and the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding.

[0060] Note that since the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b is set to a value slightly smaller than the value of the base material thickness T as the thickness of the base material 1, in the state where the base material 1 and the connection member 3 are integrated by the plurality of fastening members 5, the connection-side convex portion 3b and the circuit element 2 are in a contact positional relationship, so that a state in which electrical work is easy to perform is created.

[0061] Further, in this first embodiment, a cover 7 made of an insulating resin is formed in a form of overmolding by resin molding on a region covering the opening 1a and the circuit element 2 with respect to the surface of the base material 1 opposite to the surface on which the connecting member 3 is disposed. In each of the embodiments described later, the cover 7 overmolded at the same location as this embodiment is also shown.

[0062] 〔Basic Configuration / Second Embodiment〕 FIG. 3 shows a cross section of a circuit element connection structure B used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure B includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connecting member 3, a fixing member 4, and a fastening member 5.

[0063] The circuit element connection structure B of this second embodiment has a configuration common to the base material 1, the circuit element 2, and the connecting member 3 with the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the configuration common to the first embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are used for description.

[0064] In the circuit element connection structure B of this embodiment, the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by a plurality of fastening members 5, thereby creating a state in which the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are in contact.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in the circuit element connection structure B, a good conductor such as a copper plate formed in a flat plate shape is used as the fixing member 4, Base material 1 and is disposed on the opposite side in the thickness direction with respect to Connecting member 3 . This fixing member 4 has a fixing-side fastening hole 4h formed in a through-hole shape at a position overlapping the through-hole 1h of the base material 1 in a state of being mounted on the base material 1. Further, a fixing-side hole portion 4a may be formed at a position where at least a part of the opening 1a overlaps. The fixing-side hole portion 4a may be formed by notching the end portion of the fixing member 4 so that at least the opening 1a can be visually recognized from the thickness direction of the base material 1. Note that the fixing member 4 and the fastening member 5 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0066] The circuit element connection structure B has a configuration in which a fixing member 4 is added as compared with the circuit element connection structure A. The fixing member 4 can create and maintain a strong fixing state of the connection member 3 to the base material 1 by the fastening member 5.

[0067] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure B is performed in the following order. That is, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connection member 3 is arranged at a position where the connection-side convex portion 3b is inserted into the opening 1a.

[0068] Next, with respect to the plurality of fixing-side fastening holes 4h of the fixing member 4, the plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1, and the plurality of connection-side fastening holes 3h of the connection member 3, the fastening members 5 are respectively inserted, and caulking is performed by applying pressure to each fastening member 5 to integrate the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3. Note that the side where the fastening member 5 is caulked may be either surface side with respect to the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0069] In the integrated state like this, at a position overlapping the opening 1a, a state where the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact is created, and the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are electrically connected by sandwiching and pressure-welding the circuit element 2 between the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4. Or, they are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding.

[0070] Note that the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connection member 3 is set to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T which is the thickness of the base material 1, and by relaxing the portion overlapping the opening 1a of the circuit element 2, the connection-side convex portion 3b of the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are brought into contact at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, creating a state with good electrical connection workability.

[0071] 〔Basic Configuration / Third Embodiment〕 FIG. 5 shows a cross section of a circuit element connection structure C used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure C includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3, a plurality of fixing members 4, and a fastening member 5.

[0072] The circuit element connection structure of this third embodiment has the same configuration for the base material 1, the circuit element 2, and the connection member 3 as that of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment will be used for description.

[0073] In this circuit element connection structure C, a plurality of fixing members 4 are arranged so that at least the opening 1a can be seen directly from the thickness direction of the base material 1. By fastening the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 to the base material 1 with a plurality of fastening members 5, a state in which the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact is created.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in the circuit element connection structure C, as the fixing member 4, a good conductor such as a copper plate formed into a flat plate shape is used. Base material 1 on the opposite side in the thickness direction Connecting member 3 is arranged. In a state where the fixing member 4 is attached to the base material 1, a fixing-side fastening hole 4h is formed in a through-hole shape at a position overlapping the through-hole 1h of the base material 1. Note that the fixing member 4 and the fastening member 5 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0075] The difference in the circuit element connection structure C from the circuit element connection structure B is that there are a plurality of fixing members 4, and the configurations other than the fixing members 4 are the same as those of the circuit element connection structure B.

[0076] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure C is performed in the following order. That is, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing members 4 are respectively arranged so that the fixing-side fastening holes 4h overlap the through-holes 1h, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connection member 3 is arranged at a position where the connection-side convex portion 3b is inserted into the opening 1a.

[0077] Next, fastening members 5 are respectively inserted through the fixing-side fastening holes 4h of each of the plurality of fixing members 4, the plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1, and the plurality of connection-side fastening holes 3h of the connection member 3, and caulking is performed by applying pressure to each fastening member 5 to integrate the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3. Note that the side where the fastening member 5 is caulked may be either surface side with respect to the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0078] In the integrated state thus formed, a state is created in which the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact with each other at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and they are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation.

[0079] 〔Basic Configuration / 4th Embodiment〕 FIG. 7 shows a cross section of a circuit element connection structure D used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure D includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3 having a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d (an example of a fastening portion, a configuration that functions in the same manner as the fastening member 5), and a fixing member 4.

[0080] The circuit element connection structure D of this 4th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment for the base material 1 and the circuit element 2, and has a configuration common to that of the 2nd embodiment for the fixing member 4. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment and the 2nd embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the 1st embodiment and the 2nd embodiment are used for explanation.

[0081] In the circuit element connection structure D of this embodiment, the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d, thereby creating a state in which the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact with each other.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in the circuit element connection structure D, a connection member 3 having a connection portion 3c (an example of a terminal portion) is arranged on the other surface of the surface of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is wired, using a pressed metal plate.

[0083] The connecting member 3 is formed as a connection terminal in which a flat support portion 3e and a connection portion 3c are integrated by pressing a metal plate. A connection-side convex portion 3b is formed on the surface facing the opening 1a of the base material 1 at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 3e, and a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d are provided at positions where each is inserted into a plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1 in a state of being mounted on the base material 1.

[0084] This connecting member 3 is integrally formed with a connection-side convex portion 3b whose protruding height P is set at a position where it abuts against the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a of the base material 1. As shown in FIG. 7, among the circuit elements 2, it is in a contact state with the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a.

[0085] In this circuit element connection structure D, as shown in FIG. 7, when the circuit element 2 is wired so that at least a part thereof is buried in the thickness direction of the base material 1, the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b is set to a value slightly smaller than the value of the base material thickness T as the thickness of the base material 1. The dimensional difference between the protruding height P of this connection-side convex portion 3b and the base material thickness T is assumed to be a value smaller than the thickness of the circuit element 2.

[0086] In this circuit element connection structure D, the fixing member 4 and the fastening member 5 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0087] The circuit element connection structure D has a configuration in which the fastening member, which was separate compared to the circuit element connection structure B, becomes the connection-side fastening portion 3d and is integrally formed with the connection member 3.

[0088] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure D is performed in the following order. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connection member 3 is arranged at a position where the connection-side convex portion 3b is inserted into the opening 1a. At this time, the connection-side fastening portion 3d of the connection member 3 is inserted through the through hole 1h of the base material 1 and the fixing-side fastening hole 4h, so that the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0089] Next, the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connecting member 3 are integrated by caulking to apply pressure to each connection-side fastening portion 3d.

[0090] In the integrated state like this, since the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are in contact with each other at a position overlapping the opening 1a, the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are electrically connected by sandwiching the circuit element 2 between the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 and performing pressure welding. Or, when it is not configured for pressure welding, it is electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding.

[0091] In addition, the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connecting member 3 is set to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T which is the thickness of the base material 1, and by loosening the portion overlapping the opening 1a of the circuit element 2, the connection-side convex portion 3b of the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 is brought into contact at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, and a state with good workability of the electrical connection operation may be created.

[0092] 〔Basic Configuration / 5th Embodiment〕 FIG. 9 shows a cross section of a circuit element connection structure E used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure E includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connecting member 3, a fixing member 4, and a fastening member 5.

[0093] The circuit element connection structure E of this 5th embodiment has a configuration common to the base material 1, the circuit element 2, and the fastening member 5 with the 1st embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those common to the 1st embodiment are used for description.

[0094] In the circuit element connection structure E of this embodiment, the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by a plurality of fastening members 5, thereby creating a state where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact.

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in the circuit element connection structure E, a connection member 3 having a connection portion 3c (an example of a terminal portion) is arranged on the other surface of the surface of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is wired, using a pressed metal plate. A good conductor such as a copper plate formed into a flat plate shape is used. Base material 1 In the thickness direction with respect to Connecting member 3 a fixing member 4 is arranged on the opposite side.

[0096] This connection member 3 is formed as a connection terminal in which a flat support portion 3e and a connection portion 3c are integrated by pressing a metal plate, and a connection side hole portion 3g is formed at a position where at least a part of the opening 1a in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 3e overlaps. The connection side hole portion 3g may be formed by notching the end portion of the support portion 3e so that at least the opening 1a can be directly viewed from the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0097] This connection member 3 is formed with connection side fastening holes 3h in a through-hole shape at positions overlapping a plurality of through-holes 1h of the base material 1 in a state of being mounted on the base material 1.

[0098] Compared with the circuit element connection structure A, the circuit element connection structure E has a fixing member 4 added, and the connection member 3 has a connection side hole portion 3g without having a convex portion. The connection side hole portion 3g may be formed by notching the end portion of the connection member 3 so that at least the opening 1a can be directly viewed from the thickness direction of the base material 1.

[0099] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure E is performed in the following order. That is, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connection member 3 is arranged at a position where the connection side convex portion 3b is inserted into the opening 1a.

[0100] Next, with respect to a plurality of fixing side fastening holes 4h of the fixing member 4, a plurality of through-holes 1h of the base material 1, and a plurality of connection side fastening holes 3h of the connection member 3, fastening members 5 are respectively inserted, and the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3 are integrated by caulking to apply pressure to each fastening member 5.

[0101] In such an integrated state, a state is created in which the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding. In this embodiment, by making the fastening member 5 a conductive member, the circuit element 2 is electrically connected to the connection member 3 via the fixing member 4 and the fastening member 5.

[0102] 〔Basic Configuration / 6th Embodiment〕 FIG. 11 shows a cross-section of a circuit element connection structure F used in an electronic device unit. This circuit element connection structure F includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3, a fixing member 4, and a fastening member 5.

[0103] The circuit element connection structure F of this 6th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment for the base material 1 and the fastening member 5, and has a configuration common to that of the 5th embodiment for the connection member 3. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment and the 5th embodiment will be omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those common to the 1st embodiment and the 5th embodiment will be used for explanation.

[0104] The circuit element connection structure F of the present embodiment creates a state in which the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other by fastening the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 to the base material 1 with a plurality of fastening members 5. Further, the connection member 3 is formed as a connection terminal in which a flat support portion 3e and a connection portion 3c (an example of a terminal portion) are integrated by pressing a metal plate, and a connection side hole portion 3g is formed at a position where at least a part of the opening 1a in the longitudinal direction of the support portion 3e overlaps.

[0105] In the circuit element connection structure F shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the circuit element 2 forms a circuit by wiring a copper wire on one surface of the base material 1. Note that the circuit element 2 may form a circuit by wiring a metal wire other than copper or a coated electric wire, or may be a copper foil arranged on the surface of the base material 1 in an adhesive state.

[0106] The circuit element 2 is arranged with slack at a position where a part thereof overlaps the opening 1a in the direction view along the thickness direction of the base material 1. Since the copper wire is exposed on the surface in contact with the base material 1 and the surface on the side opposite to the base material 1 of this circuit element 2, in the region overlapping the opening 1a, it is possible to make electrical connections from both directions in the direction view along the thickness direction of the base material 1. Note that the circuit element 2 may be a coated electric wire, and in that case, electrical connection can be achieved by melting the coating with heat or the like.

[0107] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in the circuit element connection structure F, as the fixing member 4, a good conductor such as a copper plate formed in a flat plate shape is used, Base material 1 and is arranged on the opposite side in the thickness direction to Connecting member 3 this. This fixing member 4 has a fixing-side fastening hole 4h formed in a through-hole shape at a position overlapping the through-hole 1h of the base material 1 in a state of being mounted on the base material 1. Further, the fixing member 4 has a fixing-side convex portion 4b (an example of a convex portion) with a protruding height Q set at a position where it abuts on the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a of the base material 1, and as shown in FIG. 11, among the circuit elements 2, it is in a contact state with the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a.

[0108] The circuit element connection structure F has a fixing member 4 with a fixing-side convex portion 4b compared to the circuit element connection structure E, and the circuit element 2 is configured to have slack in the portion overlapping the opening 1a so as to abut on the fixing-side convex portion 4b.

[0109] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure F is performed in the same order as the circuit element connection structure E.

[0110] Note that by setting the protruding height Q of the fixing-side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T as the thickness of the base material 1 and relaxing the portion of the circuit element 2 that overlaps the opening 1a, the fixing-side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 and the circuit element 2 are brought into contact at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, creating a state with good workability for the electrical connection work.

[0111] 〔Basic Configuration / 7th Embodiment〕 The circuit element connection structure G used for an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3, and a fixing member 4 having a plurality of fixed-side fastening portions 4d.

[0112] The circuit element connection structure G of this seventh embodiment has a configuration common to that of the first embodiment between the base material 1 and the circuit element 2, and has a configuration common to that of the second embodiment for the connection member 3. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the first embodiment and the second embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, etc. are used for description.

[0113] In the circuit element connection structure G of the present embodiment, the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by a plurality of fixed-side fastening portions 4d, thereby creating a state in which the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact.

[0114] In the circuit element connection structure G, as the fixing member 4, a good conductor such as a copper plate formed into a flat plate shape is used, Base material 1 and is arranged on the opposite side in the thickness direction Connecting member 3 thereof. In a state where this fixing member 4 is attached to the base material 1, a fixed-side fastening hole 4h is formed in a through-hole shape at a position overlapping with the through-hole 1h of the base material 1. Further, a fixed-side hole portion 4a may be formed at a position where at least a part of the opening portion 1a overlaps. The fixed-side hole portion 4a may be formed by notching the end portion of the fixing member 4 such that at least the opening portion 1a can be directly viewed from the thickness direction of the base material 1. The fixing member 4 and the fastening member 5 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0115] The circuit element connection structure G has a configuration in which a fastening member, which was separate compared to the circuit element connection structure B, becomes the fixed-side fastening portion 4d and is integrally formed with the fixing member 4.

[0116] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure G is performed in the following order. On one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is disposed) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is disposed at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connection member 3 is disposed at a position where the connection-side convex portion 3b is inserted into the opening 1a. At this time, the fixing-side fastening portion 4d of the fixing member 4 is inserted through the through hole 1h of the base material 1 and the connection-side fastening hole 3h of the connection member 3, so that the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0117] Next, caulking is performed to apply pressure to each fixing-side fastening portion 4d, thereby integrating the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3.

[0118] In the integrally formed state like this, at a position overlapping the opening 1a, a state where the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact is created. By configuring the circuit element 2 to be sandwiched and pressure-welded between the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4, the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in an electrically connected state. Or, when it is not a pressure-welding configuration, it becomes an electrically connected state by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding.

[0119] In addition, the protruding height P of the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connection member 3 is set to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T which is the thickness of the base material 1. By loosening the portion overlapping the opening 1a of the circuit element 2, the connection-side convex portion 3b of the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are brought into contact at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, and a state with good workability of the electrical connection operation may be created.

[0120] 〔Basic Configuration / 8th Embodiment〕 The circuit element connection structure H used in an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3 having a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d, and a plurality of fixing members 4.

[0121] The circuit element connection structure H of this eighth embodiment has the same configuration for the base material 1 and the circuit element 2 as that of the first embodiment, and the plurality of fixing members 4 have the same configuration as that of the third embodiment. The connecting member 3 having a plurality of connecting-side fastening portions 3d has the same configuration as that of the fourth embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configurations common to the first, third, and fourth embodiments will be omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the first, third, and fourth embodiments and the like will be used for description.

[0122] In the circuit element connection structure H of this embodiment, the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by a plurality of connecting-side fastening portions 3d, thereby creating a state in which the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are in contact.

[0123] In the circuit element connection structure H, the connecting member 3 having a plurality of connecting-side fastening portions 3d is disposed on the other surface of the surface of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is wired, and the plurality of fixing members 4 are Base material 1 in the thickness direction with respect to Connecting member 3 at least a part of the opening 1a is disposed so as to be visible from the thickness direction of the base material 1 on the opposite side. Note that the fixing member 4 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0124] The circuit element connection structure H has a configuration in which the fastening member, which was separate in comparison with the circuit element connection structure C, becomes the connecting-side fastening portion 3d and is integrally formed with the connecting member 3.

[0125] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure H is performed in the following order. That is, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is disposed) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing members 4 are respectively disposed so that the fixing-side fastening holes 4h overlap the through holes 1h, and on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, the connecting member 3 is disposed at a position where the connecting-side convex portions 3b are inserted into the openings 1a. At this time, the connecting-side fastening portions 3d of the connecting member 3 are inserted through the through holes 1h and the fixing-side fastening holes 4h of the base material 1, so that the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0126] Next, the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connecting member 3 are integrated by caulking to apply pressure to each connection-side fastening portion 3d.

[0127] In the integrally formed state like this, at a position overlapping the opening 1a, a state where the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are in contact is created and they are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation.

[0128] 〔Basic Configuration / 9th Embodiment〕 The circuit element connection structure I used for an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connecting member 3, and a fixing member 4 composed of a plurality and having a fixed-side fastening portion 4d.

[0129] The circuit element connection structure I of this 9th embodiment has a configuration common to the base material 1 and the circuit element 2 with the 1st embodiment, and the connecting member 3 has a configuration common to the 2nd embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment and the 3rd embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the 1st embodiment, the 3rd embodiment, etc. are used for explanation.

[0130] In the circuit element connection structure I of this embodiment, the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by the respective fixed-side fastening portions 4d of the plurality of fixing members 4, thereby creating a state where the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are in contact.

[0131] In the circuit element connection structure I, as the fixing member 4, a good conductor such as a copper plate formed in a flat plate shape is used. Base material 1 On the opposite side in the thickness direction Connecting member 3 at least a part of the opening 1a is arranged so as to be visible from the thickness direction of the base material 1. This fixing member 4 has a fixed-side fastening portion 4d that can be inserted into the through hole 1h of the base material 1. Note that the fixing member 4 may be formed of an insulating material such as resin.

[0132] The circuit element connection structure I has a configuration in which the fastening member, which was separate compared to the circuit element connection structure C, becomes the fixed-side fastening portion 4d and is integrally formed with each fixing member 4.

[0133] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure I is performed in the following order. That is, on the opposite side of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed (the opposite side where the circuit element 2 is disposed), the connection member 3 is disposed so that the connection-side fastening holes 3h overlap the through holes 1h. At this time, the connection member 3 is disposed at a position where the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connection member 3 is inserted into the opening 1a.

[0134] Next, for the plurality of connection-side fastening holes 3h and the plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1, each fixing-side fastening portion 4d of the plurality of fixing members 4 is inserted, and caulking is performed to apply pressure to each fixing-side fastening portion 4d, thereby integrating the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3.

[0135] In the integrally formed state like this, a state where the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are in contact with each other is created at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and they are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation.

[0136] 〔Basic Configuration / 10th Embodiment〕 A circuit element connection structure J used in an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3 having a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d, and a fixing member 4.

[0137] The circuit element connection structure J of this 10th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment between the base material 1 and the circuit element 2, and has a configuration common to that of the 5th embodiment for the fixing member 4. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment and the 5th embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the 1st embodiment, the 5th embodiment, etc. are used for description.

[0138] The circuit element connection structure J of this embodiment creates a state where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other by fastening the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 to the base material 1 by a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d.

[0139] The circuit element connection structure J arranges a connection member 3 having a connection portion 3c using a pressed metal plate on the other surface of the surface on which the circuit element 2 of the base material 1 is wired.

[0140] The connection member 3 is formed as a connection terminal integrating a flat support portion 3e and a connection portion 3c by pressing a metal plate, and has a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d at positions where each is inserted into a plurality of through holes 1h of the base material 1 in a state of being mounted on the base material 1, and a connection-side hole portion 3g is formed at a position where at least a part of the longitudinal opening 1a of the support portion 3e overlaps. The connection-side hole portion 3g may have a shape in which at least the opening 1a can be directly viewed from the thickness direction of the base material 1 by notching the end portion of the support portion 3e.

[0141] The circuit element connection structure J has a configuration in which a fastening member that was separate in comparison with the circuit element connection structure E becomes the connection-side fastening portion 3d and is integrally formed with the connection member 3.

[0142] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure J is performed in the following order. That is, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, a fixing member 4 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and a fastening member 5 is arranged at a position where the connection-side fastening portion 3d is inserted into the through hole 1h on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1, and the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0143] Next, the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3 are integrated by caulking to apply pressure to each connection-side fastening portion 3d.

[0144] In the state integrated in this way, a state where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact is created at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding. In this embodiment, since the connection member 3 is a conductive member, the circuit element 2 is in a state of being electrically connected to the connection member 3 via the fixing member 4.

[0145] 〔Basic Configuration / 11th Embodiment〕 The circuit element connection structure K used for an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connection member 3, and a fixing member 4 having a plurality of fixing-side fastening portions 4d.

[0146] The circuit element connection structure K of this 11th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment between the base material 1 and the circuit element 2, has a configuration common to that of the 5th embodiment for the connection member 3, and has a configuration common to that of the 7th embodiment for the fixing member 4 having a plurality of fixing-side fastening portions 4d. Hereinafter, the description of the configuration common to the 1st embodiment, the 5th embodiment, and the 7th embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those common to the 1st embodiment, the 5th embodiment, the 7th embodiment, etc. are used for description.

[0147] In the circuit element connection structure K of this embodiment, the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by the respective fixing-side fastening portions 4d of the fixing member 4, creating a state where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact.

[0148] The circuit element connection structure K has a configuration in which the fastening member, which was separate compared to the circuit element connection structure E, becomes the fixing-side fastening portion 4d and is integrally formed with the fixing member 4.

[0149] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure K is performed in the following order. On one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is arranged) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the connection member 3 is arranged on the opposite side sandwiching the base material 1. At this time, the fixing-side fastening portion 4d of the fixing member 4 passes through the through-hole 1h of the base material 1 and the connection-side fastening hole 3h of the connection member 3, and thus the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0150] Next, caulking is performed to apply pressure to each fixing-side fastening portion 4d to integrate the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3.

[0151] In such an integrated state, a state is created where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding. In this embodiment, since the connecting member 3 is a conductive member, the circuit element 2 is in a state of being electrically connected to the connecting member 3 via the fixing member 4.

[0152] 〔Basic Configuration / 12th Embodiment〕 A circuit element connection structure L used in an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connecting member 3 having a plurality of connection-side fastening portions 3d, and a fixing member 4.

[0153] The circuit element connection structure L of this 12th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment for the base material 1, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 have configurations common to those of the 10th embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configurations common to the 1st embodiment and the 10th embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the 1st embodiment and the 10th embodiment are used for description.

[0154] In the circuit element connection structure L of this embodiment, the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are brought into contact with each other by fastening the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 to the base material 1 by the respective connection-side fastening portions 3d of the connecting member 3.

[0155] The circuit element connection structure L has a configuration in which a fastening member that was separate compared to the circuit element connection structure F becomes the connection-side fastening portion 3d and is integrally formed with the connecting member 3.

[0156] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure L is performed in the following order. That is, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is disposed) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, The fixing member 4 is disposed at a position where the fixed convex portion 4c is inserted into the opening 1a, and the connecting member 3 is disposed at a position overlapping the opening 1a on the opposite side with the base material 1 interposed therebetween. At this time, the connecting side fastening portion 3d of the connecting member 3 is inserted through the through hole 1h and the fixed side fastening hole 4h of the base material 1, so that the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0157] Next, caulking is performed to apply pressure to each of the plurality of connecting side fastening portions 3d of the connecting member 3, thereby integrating the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connecting member 3.

[0158] In the integrated state thus obtained, a state where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other is created at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding. In this embodiment, since the connecting member 3 is a conductive member, the circuit element 2 is electrically connected to the connecting member 3 via the fixing member 4.

[0159] Note that the protruding height Q of the fixed side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 is set to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T which is the thickness of the base material 1, and by relaxing the portion of the circuit element 2 overlapping the opening 1a, the circuit element 2 and the fixed side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 are brought into contact with each other at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, creating a state with good workability for the electrical connection operation.

[0160] 〔Basic Configuration / 13th Embodiment〕 A circuit element connection structure M used for an electronic device unit (not shown) includes a base material 1, a circuit element 2, a connecting member 3, and a fixing member 4 having a plurality of fixed side fastening portions 4d.

[0161] The circuit element connection structure M of this 13th embodiment has a configuration common to that of the 1st embodiment for the base material 1, and the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 have configurations common to those of the 10th embodiment. Hereinafter, the description of the configurations common to the 1st embodiment and the 10th embodiment is omitted, and for the related configurations, the same reference numerals as those in the 1st embodiment, the 10th embodiment, etc. are used for description.

[0162] In the circuit element connection structure M of this embodiment, the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are fastened to the base material 1 by the respective fixing-side fastening portions 4d of the fixing member 4, thereby creating a state in which the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other.

[0163] The circuit element connection structure M has a configuration in which the fastening member, which was separate in comparison with the circuit element connection structure F, becomes the fixing-side fastening portion 4d and is integrally formed with the connection member 3.

[0164] Due to such a configuration, the assembly of the circuit element connection structure M is performed in the following order. That is, on one outer side (the side where the circuit element 2 is disposed) of the base material 1 on which the circuit element 2 is formed, the fixing member 4 is disposed at a position where the fixing-side convex portion 4c is inserted into the opening 1a, and the connection member 3 is disposed at a position overlapping the opening 1a on the opposite side with the base material 1 interposed therebetween. At this time, the fixing-side fastening portion 4d of the fixing member 4 is inserted through the through-hole 1h and the connection-side fastening hole 3h of the base material 1, so that the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 are temporarily fixed to the base material 1.

[0165] Next, the fixing member 4, the base material 1, and the connection member 3 are integrated by caulking that applies pressure to each of the plurality of fixing-side fastening portions 4d of the fixing member 4.

[0166] In the state integrated in this way, a state in which the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are in contact with each other is created at a position overlapping the opening 1a, and the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected by an electrical connection operation such as soldering or welding. In this embodiment, since the connection member 3 is a conductive member, the circuit element 2 is in a state of being electrically connected to the connection member 3 via the fixing member 4.

[0167] In addition, the protruding height Q of the fixing-side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 is set to a value larger than the value of the base material thickness T as the thickness of the base material 1, and by relaxing the portion overlapping the opening 1a of the circuit element 2, the fixing-side convex portion 4b of the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are brought into contact with each other at a position outside the opening 1a in the thickness direction of the base material 1, thereby creating a state with good workability for the electrical connection operation.

[0168] 〔Basic Structure / 14th Embodiment〕 A sealing material 6 is provided, which is injected into a region overlapping the opening 1a so as to cover a portion where the circuit element 2 is electrically connected to the connection member 3 or the fixing member 4 at a position overlapping the opening 1a of the circuit element connection structures A to M, protecting the electrical connection. Note that the sealing material 6 may be continuous outward from the region overlapping the opening 1a.

[0169] 〔Embodiment of a Unit Using the Circuit Element Connection Structure Described Above〕 (Those having the same functions as the embodiment are given the same numbers and reference signs as the embodiment.)

[0170] 〔Unit of Circuit Element Connection Structure A〕 As shown in FIGS. 1 to 12, a circuit element connection structure unit is formed in which a circuit element connection structure is configured near one end of the circuit element 2, and another circuit element connection structure is configured near the other end of the circuit element 2.

[0171] The respective circuit element connection structures configured at both ends of the circuit element 2 may be of the same form or different forms.

[0172] 〔Unit of Circuit Element Connection Structure B〕 As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 5, etc., a cover 7 formed by resin molding is disposed on one side or both sides of the surface in the thickness direction of the base material 1 of the unit of the circuit element connection structure A.

[0173] The cover 7 is integrally formed with the circuit element connection element by overmolding resin molding on the surface of the base material 1. Or, the cover 7 is integrally formed with the circuit element connection element by adhesion on the surface of the base material 1. Or, the cover 7 is mechanically fixed to the surface of the base material 1 with screws or the like and is integrally formed with the circuit element connection element. Or, the cover 7 is fixed to the housing of the device or the like at a position where it abuts on the circuit element connection structure on the surface of the base material 1.

[0174] 〔Unit of Circuit Element Connection Structure C〕 A harness connected to an external device is connected to the connection part 3c of the connection member 3 of the unit of the circuit element connection structure A.

[0175] The external device and the circuit element connection structure unit transmit and receive electrical signals via the harness. Or a current is passed through the harness from the external device to the circuit element connection structure unit.

[0176] 〔Operation and effect of the embodiment〕 In this way, simply pressing in a state where the connection member 3 is brought into contact with the circuit element 2 on the thin sheet-like base material 1 does not result in a reliable electrical connection. By providing the opening 1a in the base material 1 and arranging the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a, in the opening 1a, when electrically connecting the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4 by an electrical connection operation such as soldering, it is possible to prevent the base material 1 from melting or discoloring due to the electrical connection operation and deteriorating functions such as appearance. (First to Fourteenth Embodiments)

[0177] The opening 1a can be provided at any position of the base material 1. If the connecting member 3 is on the surface along the thickness direction of the base material 1, it can be arranged at the end of the base material 1 or at any position inside from the end. As a result, when a unit using this circuit element connection structure is incorporated into a housing or the like and connected to an external device by a harness, the connection terminals can be arranged and designed at any position, so the degree of freedom in the design of the housing to be incorporated is increased. Also, when performing overmolding by resin molding, the connection part 3c of the connecting member 3 of the unit using this circuit element connection mechanism arranged in the molding die needs to have a die structure that is not covered with resin. When the connecting member 3 is arranged at the end of the base material 1, in order not to cover the connection part with resin, it is necessary to sandwich the part other than the connection part 3c of the connecting member 3 with the die during molding, and for this purpose, the die requires fine dimensional accuracy. Also, the arrangement position for setting the unit in the die also requires fine accuracy. However, since the unit using this circuit element connection structure can arrange the connecting member 3 at any position not limited to the end of the base material 1, in order to avoid resin covering of the connection part 3c of the connecting member 3, it is only necessary to sandwich the base material 1 with the die so as to surround the connecting member 3. Therefore, fine accuracy is not required for the die and the arrangement position of the unit, the die structure does not become complicated and the cost does not increase, and also, molding defects due to resin covering can be easily prevented. (First to Fourteenth Embodiments)

[0178] Simply pressing in a state where the connecting member 3 is brought into contact with the circuit element 2 and arranged on the thin sheet-like base material 1 does not provide a reliable electrical connection. By providing an opening 1a in the base material 1 and arranging the circuit element 2 at a position overlapping the opening 1a, a reliable electrical connection can be achieved by sandwiching and press-contacting the circuit element with the connecting member 3 and the fixing member 4 at the opening 1a. (Second, Fourth, Seventh Embodiments)

[0179] Alternatively, by configuring the state where the circuit element 2 is in contact with the connecting member 3 at a position overlapping the opening 1a, the circuit element 2 and the connecting member 3 are released from the base material 1, so electrical operations such as soldering and welding can be easily performed, and a reliable electrical connection can be achieved. Note that the same applies when the electrical connection operation is performed on the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4. (First to Fourteenth Embodiments)

[0180] When the connection-side convex portion 3b of the connection member 3 or the fixed-side convex portion 4b of the fixing member 4 that is electrically connected to the circuit element 2 protrudes at a protruding height at a position where it abuts against the circuit element 2 within the opening 1a, the electrical connection work can be easily performed. Further, when the protruding height is made larger than the thickness of the base material, it is possible to avoid a decrease in the workability of the electrical connection work due to the thickness of the base material or the thickness of the connection member 3 or the fixing member 4 disposed on the surface opposite to the convex portion. (First to fourth, sixth to ninth, twelfth to fourteenth embodiments)

[0181] Since the connection member 3 is integrated with the base material 1 by the fastening member 5 in the region outside the opening 1a, it is possible to prevent the connection member 3 from separating from the base material 1 and damaging the electrical connection between the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3. (First to fourteenth embodiments)

[0182] The connection member 3 is disposed on one surface of the base material 1 in the thickness direction, and the fixing member is disposed on the other surface where the circuit element 2 is wired. The connection member 3, the fixing member 4, and the base material 1 are integrated by the fastening member 5 that passes through the through-hole 1h of the base material 1, the connection-side hole portion 3g of the connection member 3, and the fixed-side hole portion 4a of the fixing member 4. In this configuration, the base material 1 is sandwiched between the connection member 3 and the fixing member 4, and the integration becomes strong, thereby preventing damage to the electrical connection of the circuit element 2. (Second to fourteenth embodiments)

[0183] By providing a connection-side fastening portion 3d on the connection member 3 or a fixed-side fastening portion on the fixing member 4 instead of the fastening member, the fastening member becomes unnecessary, the number of parts can be reduced, and the assembly process can be simplified. (Fourth, seventh to fourteenth embodiments)

[0184] In an embodiment where the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are electrically connected to form the fixing member 4, the fixing member 4 has a fixing-side hole portion 4a through which at least a part of the opening 1a can be directly seen. Thus, in the region of the fixing-side hole portion 4a, operations such as soldering and welding can be performed to electrically connect the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3. Further, the electrical connection can be protected by injecting a sealing material 6 from the fixing-side hole portion 4a into the electrically connected portion. Note that the fixing-side hole portion 4a is not limited to a hole shape and may have a shape in which an end portion of the fixing member 4 is cut out. (2nd, 4th, 7th, 14th embodiments)

[0185] In an embodiment where the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 are electrically connected to form the fixing member 4, the fixing member 4 is composed of a plurality of members and is arranged such that at least a part of the opening 1a can be directly seen. Thus, in order to electrically connect the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3, operations such as soldering and welding can be performed. Further, the electrical connection can be protected by injecting a sealing material 6 into the electrically connected portion. At this time, in order to increase the reliability of the electrical connection by lengthening the electrically connected portion of the circuit element 2, the opening 1a can be enlarged without enlarging the fixing member 4. As a result, the connection member 3 can be configured without being enlarged, so that even if the reliability of the electrical connection is increased, the cost of the member material can be suppressed and the circuit element connection structure can be miniaturized. (3rd, 8th, 9th, 14th embodiments)

[0186] In an embodiment where the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4 are electrically connected and the circuit element 2 is electrically connected to the connection member 3 via the fastening member 5 or the connection-side fastening portion 3d or the fixing-side fastening portion 4d, the connection member 3 has a connection-side hole portion 3g through which at least a part of the opening 1a can be directly seen. Thus, in the region of the fixing-side hole portion 4a, operations such as soldering and welding can be performed to electrically connect the circuit element 2 and the fixing member 4. Further, the electrical connection can be protected by injecting a sealing material 6 from the fixing-side hole portion 4a into the electrically connected portion. Note that the fixing-side hole portion 4a is not limited to a hole shape and may have a shape in which an end portion of the fixing member 4 is cut out.

[0187] Furthermore, in the case of the embodiment where the circuit element 2 is overmolded by resin molding to form the cover 7 as partially described in the embodiment, in order for the sealing material 6 for protecting the electrical connection not to be deformed by the heat during the resin molding for overmolding, it is necessary to use a material with a higher melting point than the material of the cover 7 for the sealing material 6. Therefore, the selection range of the materials used for the sealing material 6 and the cover 7 is narrowed. However, in this configuration, since the cover 7 and the sealing material 6 are not in contact with each other, the influence of the heat received by the sealing material 6 during the resin molding of the cover 7 is reduced. Therefore, by expanding the selection range of the materials for the sealing material 6 and the cover 7, low-cost materials or materials with excellent functionality can be used. (Embodiments 5, 6, 10 to 14)

[0188] In the unit of the circuit element connection structure B, when the cover 7 is integrally formed on the base material 1 by overmolding by resin molding, the fastening member 5 in which the connection member 3 is integrated with the base material 1 by caulking, or the connection side fastening portion 3d and the fixing member 4 are covered by overmolding. Therefore, loosening of the fastened state can be suppressed, and the electrical connection state between the circuit element 2 and the connection member 3 or the fixing member 4 can be maintained well.

[0189] Due to the configuration of the unit of the circuit element connection structure C, the circuit element 2 can have an electrical circuit function.

Industrial Applicability

[0190] The present invention can be used in a circuit element connection structure that electrically connects a circuit element provided on a base material and a connection member having a connection portion for making an electrical connection with an external device. In addition, it can be used in a unit that can perform electrical communication and current conduction with an external device by using the circuit element connection structure. It can be used as an antenna of a device by electrical communication or as a heater of a device by current conduction.

Explanation of Signs

[0191] 1 Base material 1a Opening 1h Through hole 2 Circuit elements 3 Connection members 3a Connection-side hole part 3b Connection-side convex part (convex part) 3c Contact part (terminal part) 3d Connection-side fastening part (fastening part) 3e Support part 3h Connection-side fastening hole 4 Fixing members 4a Fixing-side hole part 4b Fixing-side convex part (convex part) 4d Fixing-side fastening part 4h Fixing-side fastening hole 5 Fastening members 6 Sealing materials 7 Covers P Protrusion height T Substrate thickness

Claims

1. A plate-shaped base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction, A circuit element made of a conductive material and arranged on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, A connecting member made of a conductive material and arranged on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening, A fixing member arranged on the opposite side of the connecting member with respect to the base material at least at a position overlapping the opening, A fastening member that integrates the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member by penetrating an area outside the portion of the connecting member that overlaps the opening, an area outside the opening of the base material, and an area outside the portion of the fixing member that overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, The fixing member has a circuit element connection structure having a hole or notch through which at least a part of the opening can be directly seen.

2. A plate-shaped base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction, A circuit element made of a conductive material and arranged on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, A connecting member made of a conductive material and arranged on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening, A fixing member arranged on the opposite side of the connecting member with respect to the base material at least at a position overlapping the opening, A fastening member that integrates the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member by penetrating an area outside the portion of the connecting member that overlaps the opening, an area outside the opening of the base material, and an area outside the portion of the fixing member that overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, The fixing member is at least two or more separate pairs so that at least a part of the opening can be directly seen. Circuit element connection structure.

3. A plate-shaped base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction, A circuit element made of a conductive material and disposed on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, A connecting member made of a conductive material, disposed on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening, A fixing member disposed on the opposite side of the connecting member with respect to the base material at least at a position overlapping the opening, and It is integrally formed with either the connecting member or the fixing member, and has a fastening portion that integrates the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member by penetrating an area outside the opening in the base material and an area outside a portion overlapping the other opening that is not integrally formed among the connecting member and the fixing member when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, The fixing member has a circuit element connection structure having a hole or notch through which at least a part of the opening can be directly viewed.

4. A plate-shaped base material made of an insulating material and having an opening penetrating in the thickness direction, A circuit element made of a conductive material and disposed on one side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, A connecting member made of a conductive material, disposed on the other side in the thickness direction of the base material so that at least a part thereof overlaps the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and electrically connected to the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening, A fixing member disposed on the opposite side of the connecting member with respect to the base material at least at a position overlapping the opening, and It is integrally formed with either the connecting member or the fixing member, and has a fastening portion that integrates the connecting member, the base material, and the fixing member by penetrating an area outside the opening in the base material and an area outside a portion overlapping the other opening that is not integrally formed among the connecting member and the fixing member when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, The fixing member is at least two or more separate pairs so that at least a part of the opening can be directly viewed. A circuit element connection structure.

5. The connection member has a convex portion that protrudes in the direction of the circuit element at a position overlapping the opening when viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, and the protruding height is set so that the convex portion abuts against the circuit element. The circuit element connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The connection member has a terminal portion that extends in the thickness direction of the base material. The circuit element connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. When viewed in the direction along the thickness direction of the base material, a sealing material is injected at a position overlapping the opening to protect the electrical connection of the circuit element. The circuit element connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. One set of the circuit element connection structures according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is configured near one end of the circuit element, and another set of the circuit element connection structures is configured near the other end of the circuit element. A circuit element connection structure unit.

9. The circuit element is overmolded by resin molding. The circuit element connection structure unit according to claim 8.

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