Electrical connection structure

Abstract

To provide an electrical connection structure capable of improving an insertion operability while suppressing an error insertion into a case of a power supply distribution unit.SOLUTION: In a case 2 of an electrical connection structure 1, a holding part 27 into which a power supply distribution unit 34 is inserted and held is formed. Here, the power supply distribution unit 34 comprises a main body part 340 that becomes an almost two-time rotational symmetry shape to a virtual line L1 extended in a first direction. Further, a projection 3422 is formed in the main body part 340 and / or the holding part 27. In the holding part 27 and / or the main body part 340, a groove 2712 into which the projection 3422 is inserted and a regulation wall 214 interfering with the projection 3422 at the time of a reverse insertion are formed. Further, in the projection 3422, a projection side inclination surface 34221 that can come into contact with the regulation wall 214 and guide the projection 3422 into the groove 2712 when the power supply distribution unit 34 is inserted in a positive position state is formed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 24

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical connection structure. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional electrical connection structure of this type is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses an electrical connection box (electrical connection structure) that includes a box body (case) having a holding portion, and a power distribution unit that is inserted and held in the box body (case). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-013290 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When inserting and holding such a power distribution unit in a case, it is preferable to prevent incorrect insertion and to further improve the ease of insertion.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the problems inherent in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electrical connection structure that can improve the ease of insertion while preventing incorrect insertion of a power distribution unit into a case. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An electrical connection structure according to an aspect of the present invention comprises a case having a holding portion, and a power distribution unit inserted and held in the holding portion, the holding portion opening on one side in a first direction, and the power distribution unit being moved relative to the case towards the other side in the first direction to form an accommodation space in which the power distribution unit is accommodated, and a wall portion defining the accommodation space, the power distribution unit having a power connection portion and a plurality of load connection portions, a bus bar capable of power distribution, a plurality of fuse portions interposed between the power connection portion and the load connection portion, and a cover for holding the bus bar, the main body portion being configured to be inserted into the case in the first direction The power distribution unit is formed to have a shape that is approximately two-fold rotationally symmetrical with respect to an extending imaginary line, and a protrusion is formed on at least one of the main body portion and the holding portion, and at least the other of the main body portion and the holding portion is formed with a groove into which the protrusion is inserted when the power distribution unit is inserted into the storage space in the normal position, and a regulating wall that interferes with the protrusion when the power distribution unit is inserted into the storage space in the reverse position, and the protrusion is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface that can come into contact with the regulating wall and guide the protrusion into the groove when the power distribution unit is inserted into the storage space in the normal position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrical connection structure that can further improve the ease of insertion while preventing erroneous insertion of a power distribution unit into a case. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical connection structure according to an embodiment, and is a perspective view of an electrical connection structure not provided with a relief terminal, viewed from one direction. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical connection structure according to an embodiment, and is a perspective view of an electrical connection structure not provided with a relief terminal, viewed from another direction. [Figure 3]FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical connection structure according to an embodiment, and is a perspective view of an electrical connection structure provided with a relief terminal, viewed from one direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of an electrical connection structure according to an embodiment, in which a relief terminal is provided, as viewed from another direction. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example of a base unit according to an embodiment, seen from one direction. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example of a base unit according to an embodiment, seen from another direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an example of a base unit according to an embodiment, viewed from one direction. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the base unit according to the embodiment, seen from another direction. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating an example of a case according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a rear view illustrating an example of a case according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a power distribution circuit according to an embodiment and an example of a battery circuit not provided with a relief terminal. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a power supply distribution circuit and an example of a battery circuit provided with a relief terminal according to an embodiment; [Figure 13] 10 is an exploded perspective view showing components that are inserted into an example case from below, among components that constitute a part of an example base unit according to an embodiment; FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a rear view illustrating an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 18]FIG. 2 is a rear view illustrating an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a side view of one side showing an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a side view of the other side showing an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of a bus bar included in an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a rear view illustrating an example of a bus bar included in an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating an example of a restriction wall according to an embodiment. [Figure 24] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a state in which a protrusion is guided into a groove when an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment is inserted into an accommodating space in a normal position. [Figure 25] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a state in which a protrusion is moved in a direction away from a groove by a regulating wall when an example of a multi-fusible link unit according to an embodiment is inserted into an accommodating space in an inverted position. [Figure 26] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of a method for assembling an electrical connection structure that is not provided with a relief terminal. [Figure 27] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of a method for assembling an electrical connection structure provided with a relief terminal, illustrating a state before a bus bar with relief terminals and a relief terminal cover are assembled to a base unit. [Figure 28] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of a method for assembling an electrical connection structure provided with a relief terminal, showing a state in which a relief terminal cover has been assembled to a base unit. [Figure 29] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of a method for assembling an electrical connection structure provided with a relief terminal, and show a state in which the relief terminal cover is opened while the bus bar with relief terminal and the relief terminal cover are being assembled to the base unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The electrical connection structure according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the dimensional proportions in the drawings are exaggerated for the sake of explanation and may differ from the actual proportions.

[0010] In the following embodiments, a multi-fusible link unit having a plurality of fusible link portions will be exemplified as the power distribution unit.

[0011] In addition, the direction in which the multi-fusible link unit is inserted is defined as the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), the longitudinal direction of the case is defined as the Y direction (width direction: second direction), and the lateral direction of the case is defined as the X direction (front-rear direction: third direction).

[0012] Furthermore, the electrical connection structure will be described by defining the up-down direction of each component in a state where the electrical connection structure is positioned so that the multi-fusible link is held in the case by moving it from top to bottom. The side where the multi-fusible link unit is located will be defined as the front in the X direction (front-to-back direction: third direction), and the side where electronic components other than the multi-fusible link unit are located will be defined as the rear in the X direction (front-to-back direction: third direction).

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the electrical connection structure 1 of this embodiment comprises a case 2, a power distribution circuit component 30 held in the case 2, and a battery circuit component 40 held in a position on the case 2 different from the portion where the power distribution circuit component 30 is held.

[0014] Here, the power distribution circuit component 30 refers to a component that constitutes a part of a power distribution circuit 3 that distributes power supplied from a power source 8 to a plurality of loads 9. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the power distribution circuit component 30 includes a power supply terminal block 31 having a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 electrically connected to the power source 8 via an electric wire 81. The power distribution circuit component 30 also includes a power distribution bus bar 32 electrically connected to the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312, and an electronic component 33 electrically connected to the power distribution bus bar 32. Note that, for example, an accessory (ACC) power supply can be used as the power source 8. Furthermore, for example, the loads 9 to which power is distributed include auxiliary equipment such as an electric power steering system (EPS), and other electrical connection structures.

[0015] The battery circuit component 40 is a component that is electrically connected to the battery 6 and constitutes a part of the battery circuit 4, which receives power from the battery 6 and charges the battery 6. In this embodiment, the battery circuit component 40 includes a battery circuit terminal block 41, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The battery circuit terminal block 41 has a first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 electrically connected to the battery 6 via an electric wire 61, and a second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 connected to the load 7 via an electric wire 71. The battery circuit component 40 also includes a battery circuit bus bar 42 that electrically connects the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0016] The electrical connection structure 1 configured in this manner is a component that forms part of an electrical connection box, such as a junction box, relay box, or fuse box, that is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile. For example, an electrical connection box can be formed by covering the top and bottom of the electrical connection structure 1 with an upper cover and a lower cover (not shown). It is also possible to form an electrical connection box by housing the electrical connection structure 1 together with other electrical devices in a housing (not shown).

[0017] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electrical connection structure 1 is configured to be compatible with vehicles of different specifications, such as vehicle models and grades. Specifically, an electrical connection structure 1 without a relief terminal 43 is installed in a vehicle in which the battery 6 is located in the engine compartment, such as a gasoline engine vehicle, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. On the other hand, an electrical connection structure 1 with a relief terminal 43 is installed in a vehicle in which the battery 6 is located outside the engine compartment, such as an electric vehicle (e.g., a hybrid engine vehicle), as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The relief terminal 43 is a component for receiving charging of the battery from another vehicle.

[0018] In this way, in this embodiment, it is possible to select either an electrical connection structure 1 that is not provided with the relief terminal 43 or an electrical connection structure 1 that is provided with the relief terminal 43. By selecting either of the electrical connection structures 1, it is possible to accommodate differences in vehicle specifications.

[0019] In this embodiment, when the electrical connection structure 1 is not provided with a relief terminal 43, an alternator is connected to the load 7 side, and the battery 6 is charged by this alternator (load 7).

[0020] On the other hand, when the electrical connection structure 1 is provided with the relief terminal 43, a starter is connected to the load 7 side, and power is supplied to this starter (load 7) from the battery 6. Also, by connecting the clip portion of a booster cable to the relief terminal 43, the battery 6 can be charged from another vehicle.

[0021] Next, a specific configuration of the electrical connection structure 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0022] The case 2 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a wall portion 21 that serves as the framework of the case 2. The case 2 can be formed, for example, using an electrically insulating material (such as a resin, for example, polypropylene).

[0023] The wall portion 21 also includes a peripheral wall 211 and a partition wall 212, which define a number of spaces penetrating in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction) (see FIGS. 9 and 10). The power distribution circuit components 30 and the battery circuit components 40 are housed in the spaces defined by the peripheral wall 211 and the partition wall 212.

[0024] Specifically, the case 2 includes a power supply terminal block holder 22 that has an accommodation space 221 formed therein for accommodating and holding the power supply terminal block 31. In this embodiment, a holding protrusion 222 is formed on a wall 21 that defines the accommodation space 221 so as to protrude into the accommodation space 221. The power supply terminal block 31 is accommodated in the accommodation space 221 of the power supply terminal block holder 22 while being held by the holding protrusion 222. In this embodiment, the power supply terminal block 31 is held in the case 2 by being inserted into the accommodation space 221 from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0025] The case 2 also includes a battery circuit terminal block holder 23 that has a storage space 231 formed therein for storing and holding the battery circuit terminal block 41. In this embodiment, a holding protrusion 232 is formed on the wall 21 that defines the storage space 231 so as to protrude into the storage space 231. The battery circuit terminal block 41 is stored in the storage space 231 of the battery circuit terminal block holder 23 while being held by the holding protrusion 232. In this embodiment, the battery circuit terminal block 41 is also held in the case 2 by being inserted into the storage space 231 from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). In this embodiment, the battery circuit bus bar 42 is attached to the battery circuit terminal block 41 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0026] Furthermore, the case 2 includes a fuse holding portion 24 having an accommodation space 241 formed therein for accommodating and holding fuses 332, 452 as electronic components 33, 45. In this embodiment, the fuses 332, 452 are held in the case 2 by being inserted into the accommodation space 241 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Furthermore, at the lower part of the accommodation space 241 in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), a tuning fork terminal insertion space 2411 is formed into which the tuning fork terminal 3223 formed on the power distribution bus bar 32 and the tuning fork terminal 444 formed on the battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 are inserted. Note that in this embodiment, the tuning fork terminals 3223, 444 are inserted into the accommodation space 241 (tuning fork terminal insertion space 2411) from the lower side (other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Furthermore, an external connection terminal insertion space 2412 into which an external connection terminal (not shown) connected to one end of an electric wire having a load connected to the other end is inserted is formed at a position facing the tuning fork terminal insertion space 2411 at the bottom in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction) of the accommodation space 241. Note that in this embodiment, the external connection terminal (not shown) is also inserted into the accommodation space 241 (external connection terminal insertion space 2412) from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0027] When the fuse 332, 452 is inserted into the accommodation space 241 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), the tuning fork terminals 3223, 444 clamp the power supply side terminals 3321, 4521 of the fuse 332, 452. When the external connection terminal is inserted into the external connection terminal insertion space 2412 from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction) into the accommodation space 241, the external connection terminal (not shown) is connected to the load side terminals 3322, 4522 of the fuse 332, 452. In this manner, the power source 8 or the battery 6 is electrically connected to the load (not shown) via the fuse 332, 452, and a circuit (power distribution circuit 3 or battery circuit 4) having a fuse function is formed.

[0028] The case 2 also includes a relay holding portion 25 having an accommodation space 251 formed therein for accommodating and holding relays 331 and 451 as electronic components 33 and 45. In this embodiment, the relays 331 and 451 are held in the case 2 by being inserted into the accommodation space 251 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Furthermore, a strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2511 is formed at the lower part of the accommodation space 251 in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Strip-shaped terminals 3212, 3222, and 3223 formed on the power distribution bus bar 32 and a strip-shaped terminal 443 formed on the battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 are inserted into this strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2511. In this embodiment, the strip-shaped terminals 3212, 3222, 3223, 443 are inserted into the accommodating space 251 (strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2511) from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Also, at a position facing the strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2511 at the lower part of the accommodating space 251 in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), an external connection terminal insertion space 2512 is formed into which an external connection terminal (not shown) connected to one end of an electric wire having the other end connected to a load is inserted. In this embodiment, the external connection terminal (not shown) is also inserted into the accommodating space 251 (external connection terminal insertion space 2512) from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0029] When the relays 331, 451 are inserted into the accommodation space 251 from above in the Z direction (one side in the first direction), the strip-shaped terminals 3212, 3222, 3223, 443 and the external connection terminals are electrically connected to the relays 331, 451. In this way, the power source 8 and the battery 6 are electrically connected to a load (not shown) via the relays 331, 451, and a circuit having a switching function (the power distribution circuit 3 and the battery circuit 4) is formed.

[0030] The case 2 also includes an other electronic component holder 26 having an accommodation space 261 formed therein for accommodating and holding other electronic components 333, 453 as the electronic components 33, 45. In this embodiment, the other electronic components 333, 453 are held in the case 2 by being inserted into the accommodation space 261 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Furthermore, a strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2611 is formed at the lower part of the accommodation space 261 in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). A strip-shaped terminal 3234 formed on the power distribution bus bar 32 and a strip-shaped terminal 445 formed on the battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 are inserted into this strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2611. Note that in this embodiment, the strip-shaped terminals 3234, 445 are inserted into the accommodation space 261 (strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2611) from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). Furthermore, an external connection terminal insertion space 2612 into which an external connection terminal (not shown) connected to one end of an electric wire having a load connected to the other end is inserted is formed at a position facing the strip-shaped terminal insertion space 2611 at the bottom in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction) of the accommodating space 261. Note that in this embodiment, the external connection terminal (not shown) is also inserted into the accommodating space 261 (external connection terminal insertion space 2612) from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0031] When the other electronic component 333, 453 is inserted into the accommodation space 261 from above in the Z direction (one side in the first direction), the strip-shaped terminals 3234, 445 and the external connection terminals are electrically connected to the other electronic component 333, 453. In this way, the power source 8 or the battery 6 is electrically connected to the load (not shown) via the other electronic component 333, 453. This makes it possible to form circuits (power distribution circuit 3 and battery circuit 4) having various functions (functions provided by the other electronic components 333, 453).

[0032] The case 2 also includes a power distribution unit holding portion 27 having a housing space 271 formed therein for housing and holding a multi-fusible link unit (power distribution unit) 34 serving as the electronic component 33, 45. In this embodiment, the multi-fusible link unit 34 is held in the case 2 by being inserted into the housing space 271 from the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). The multi-fusible link unit 34 is a unitized member formed by combining a plurality of fusible link portions (fuse portions) 3413. When inserted into the housing space 271 and held in the case 2, the electric wire 91 can be electrically connected via each fusible link portion (fuse portion) 3413. The fusible link portion (fuse portion) 3413 has a larger allowable current value than that of a normal fuse (fuses 332, 452), allowing connection of an electric wire 91 through which a relatively large current flows.

[0033] In this embodiment, the power distribution circuit component 30 includes a plurality of electric wire connection bolts 35 to which electric wires 91 can be connected, and the case 2 includes power connection bolt holding portions 28 each having an accommodation space 281 formed therein for accommodating and holding the electric wire connection bolts 35. In this embodiment, eight power connection bolt holding portions 28 are formed so as to be aligned in the Y direction (width direction: second direction), and each power connection bolt holding portion 28 accommodates and holds one electric wire connection bolt 35. Each power connection bolt holding portion 28 also includes a partition wall 282, which ensures an insulation distance for the electric wires 91 connected to the electric wire connection bolts 35.

[0034] The wire connection bolt 35 is held in the case 2 by being inserted into the accommodating space 281 from the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction). Specifically, the accommodating space 281 is formed with a head accommodating space 2811 that accommodates and holds the head 351 of the wire connection bolt 35, and that opens downward. When the head 351 of the wire connection bolt 35 is accommodated and held in this head accommodating space 2811 from below, the shaft 352 of the wire connection bolt 35 protrudes forward in the X direction (front-rear direction: third direction).

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the accommodation space 281 is formed below the accommodation space 271 in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). When the multi-fusible link unit 34 is held in the case 2, the load connection portion 3414 of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 281. In this way, the load connection portion 3414 is electrically connected to the shaft portion 352 of the electric wire connection bolt 35.

[0036] As described above, the power distribution circuit component 30 also includes a power supply terminal block 31 having a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312, and this power supply terminal block 31 includes a base 311 that holds the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312.

[0037] 14 , the base 311 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a head accommodating space 3111 for accommodating and holding a head 3121 of a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 is formed in the base 311 so as to open to one side in the Y direction (width direction: second direction). When the head 3121 of the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 is accommodated and held in the head accommodating space 3111 from the side, a shaft 3122 of the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 protrudes upward in the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction). By connecting an electric wire 81 to the shaft 3122, the power supply 8 is electrically connected to the power distribution circuit component 30 via the electric wire 81.

[0038] The power distribution circuit component 30 also includes a power distribution bus bar 32 electrically connected to a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13 , the power distribution bus bar 32 includes a first power distribution bus bar 321, a second power distribution bus bar 322, and a third power distribution bus bar 323. These power distribution bus bars can be formed, for example, using a metal material that is conductive and rigid. In this embodiment, each power distribution bus bar is formed by punching a single conductive metal plate so that the outer shape of the material has a predetermined shape, and then appropriately performing plastic processing such as bending on the punched product.

[0039] The first power distribution bus bar 321 has a connection piece 3211 connected to a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312, and a through hole 32111 is formed in this connection piece 3211. The first power distribution bus bar 321 is electrically connected to the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 by inserting a shaft portion 3122 of the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 into this through hole 32111. The first power distribution bus bar 321 also has a strip-shaped terminal 3212 to which a relay 331 serving as an electronic component 33 is electrically connected.

[0040] The second power distribution bus bar 322 has a connection piece 3221 connected to a power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312, and a through hole 32211 is formed in the connection piece 3221. The second power distribution bus bar 322 is electrically connected to the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 by inserting a shaft portion 3122 of the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 into the through hole 32211. The second power distribution bus bar 322 has a strip-shaped terminal 3222 to which a relay 331 serving as an electronic component 33 is electrically connected. The second power distribution bus bar 322 has a tuning fork terminal 3223 to which a fuse 332 serving as an electronic component 33 is electrically connected.

[0041] Moreover, the third power distribution bus bar 323 has one side connection piece 3231 connected to the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312, and a through hole 32311 is formed in this one side connection piece 3231. Then, by inserting the shaft portion 3122 of the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312 into this through hole 32311, the third power distribution bus bar 323 is electrically connected to the power supply bolt (power supply terminal) 312.

[0042] Furthermore, the third power distribution busbar 323 has an other-side connection piece 3232 connected to the electric wire connection bolt 35, and this other-side connection piece 3232 has a notch 32321 that opens downward. The shaft 352 of the electric wire connection bolt 35 is inserted into this notch 32321, so that the third power distribution busbar 323 is electrically connected to the electric wire connection bolt 35. At this time, the power connection portion 3411 of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is also electrically connected to the same electric wire connection bolt 35. In this way, the current passing through the third power distribution busbar 323 is introduced into the multi-fusible link unit 34 via the other-side connection piece 3232. The current passing through the multi-fusible link unit 34 is distributed to each electric wire connection bolt 35 through each fusible link portion 3413.

[0043] Furthermore, the third power distribution bus bar 323 has a strip-shaped terminal 3233, and a relay 331 as an electronic component 33 is electrically connected to this strip-shaped terminal 3233. The third power distribution bus bar 323 has a strip-shaped terminal 3234, and another electronic component 333 is electrically connected to this strip-shaped terminal 3234.

[0044] As described above, the battery circuit component 40 also includes the battery circuit terminal block 41. The battery circuit terminal block 41 includes a first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 electrically connected to the battery 6 via the electric wire 61, and a second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 connected to the load 7 via the electric wire 71. The battery circuit terminal block 41 also includes a base 411 that holds the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0045] 14, the base 411 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. A first head accommodating space 4111 for accommodating and holding a head 4121 of a first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is formed in the base 411 so as to open to one side in the Y direction (width direction: second direction). The base 411 also has a second head accommodating space 4112 for accommodating and holding a head 4131 of a second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 so as to open to one side in the Y direction (width direction: second direction). When the head 4121 of the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is accommodated and held in the first head accommodating space 4111 from the side, the shaft 4122 of the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 protrudes upward in the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction). Similarly, when the head 4131 of the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is housed and held from the side in the second head accommodating space 4112, the shaft 4132 of the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 protrudes upward in the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction). Then, by connecting an electric wire 61 to the shaft 4122 of the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412, the battery 6 is electrically connected to the battery circuit component 40 via the electric wire 61. Furthermore, by connecting an electric wire 71 to the shaft 4132 of the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413, the load 7 is electrically connected to the battery circuit component 40 via the electric wire 71.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the battery circuit component 40 is provided with a battery-side power distribution circuit that distributes the power supplied from the battery 6. In other words, the battery circuit 4 is provided with a power distribution function. Note that it is also possible to provide a battery circuit 4 that does not have a power distribution function.

[0047] 13, the battery circuit component 40 includes a battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 electrically connected to the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413. The battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 can be formed, for example, using a metal material that is conductive and rigid. In this embodiment, a single conductive metal plate is punched out so that the outer shape of the material has a predetermined shape, and the punched product is then subjected to appropriate plastic processing such as bending to form the battery-side power distribution bus bar 44.

[0048] The battery-side power supply distribution bus bar 44 has one side connection piece 441 connected to the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413, and a through hole 4411 is formed in this one side connection piece 441. The shaft portion 4132 of the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is inserted into this through hole 4411, so that the battery-side power supply distribution bus bar 44 is electrically connected to the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0049] Furthermore, the battery-side power distribution busbar 44 has an other-side connection piece 442 connected to the wire connection bolt 35, and this other-side connection piece 442 has a notch 4421 that opens downward. The shaft 352 of the wire connection bolt 35 is inserted into this notch 4421, so that the battery-side power distribution busbar 44 is electrically connected to the wire connection bolt 35. At this time, the power connection portion 3411 of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is also electrically connected to the same wire connection bolt 35. In this way, the current passing through the battery-side power distribution busbar 44 is introduced into the multi-fusible link unit 34 via the other-side connection piece 442. The current passing through the multi-fusible link unit 34 is distributed to each wire connection bolt 35 through each fusible link portion 3413. In this embodiment, the electric wire connection bolt 35 to which the other side connection piece 442 is connected is different from the electric wire connection bolt 35 to which the other side connection piece 3232 is connected.

[0050] Furthermore, battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 has a strip-shaped terminal 443, to which a relay 451 as an electronic component 45 is electrically connected. Battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 has a tuning fork terminal 444, to which a fuse 452 as an electronic component 45 is electrically connected. Battery-side power distribution bus bar 44 has a strip-shaped terminal 445, to which another electronic component 453 is electrically connected (see FIGS. 11 to 13).

[0051] Furthermore, the battery circuit component 40 includes the battery circuit bus bar 42 that electrically connects the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413, as described above.

[0052] Next, a specific configuration of the multi-fusible link unit 34 and a method of inserting it into the case 2 will be described.

[0053] The multi-fusible link unit 34 is a member that is inserted and held in the accommodation space 271 that opens to the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), and is unitized as a single component. This allows multiple fusible links (fusible link portions 3413) to be inserted and held collectively in the case 2. In this embodiment, the multi-fusible link unit 34 is configured to be housed in the accommodation space 271 and inserted and held in the case 2 by moving the multi-fusible link unit 34 relatively from the upper side of the case 2 downward.

[0054] 15 to 22, the multi-fusible link unit 34 has a power supply connection portion 3411 and a plurality of load connection portions 3414, and is equipped with a bus bar 341 capable of distributing power. The multi-fusible link unit 34 also includes a plurality of fusible link portions 3413 interposed between the power supply connection portion 3411 and the load connection portion 3414, and a cover 342 that holds the bus bar 341.

[0055] In this embodiment, a single conductive metal plate is punched into a predetermined outer shape, and the punched product is then subjected to appropriate plastic processing such as bending to form bus bar 341. Then, multiple fusible link portions 3413 are formed on bus bar 341.

[0056] In this way, the power supply connection portion 3411, the multiple load connection portions 3414, and the multiple fusible link portions 3413 are formed simply by forming the bus bar 341. This eliminates the need to unitize by attaching individual fusible links to the bus bar, thereby reducing the number of parts and also reducing costs. Furthermore, by forming multiple fusible link portions 3413 on a single plate-shaped bus bar 341, the bus bar 341 having the power supply connection portion 3411, the multiple load connection portions 3414, and the multiple fusible link portions 3413 can be obtained more inexpensively. Furthermore, the multi-fusible link unit 34 can be made thinner.

[0057] 21 and 22, eight connection pieces are formed on the bus bar 341, and each connection piece is electrically connected to a corresponding one of the wire connection bolts 35. In this manner, in this embodiment, the bus bar 341 is provided with eight load connection portions 3414. In this embodiment, a notch 34141 is formed in each of the load connection portions 3414, and the bus bar 341 is electrically connected to the wire connection bolt 35 by inserting the shaft portion 352 of the wire connection bolt 35 into this notch 34141.

[0058] Furthermore, of the eight load connection portions 3414, the two load connection portions 3414 located in the center in the Y direction are electrically connected to the wire connection bolt 35 to which the other-side connection piece 442 is connected and the wire connection bolt 35 to which the other-side connection piece 3232 is connected, respectively. Therefore, the two load connection portions 3414 located in the center in the Y direction also function as power supply connection portions 3411 into which current is introduced when power is distributed by the multi-fusible link unit 34. In this way, in this embodiment, the multi-fusible link unit 34 is configured to be able to distribute current supplied from the power source 8 while distributing current supplied from the battery 6. Therefore, the notches 34141 of the two load connection portions 3414 that also function as power supply connection portions 3411 also correspond to the notches 34111 of the power supply connection portion 3411.

[0059] Furthermore, bus bar 341 has eight load connection portions 3414 connected by connection portions 3412, and a fusible link portion (fuse portion) 3413 is formed between load connection portions 3414 and connection portions 3412. This fusible link portion (fuse portion) 3413 has a fusible element 34131, and when a current of a predetermined value or more flows through fusible link portion (fuse portion) 3413, this fusible element 34131 is melted by heat.

[0060] On the other hand, the cover 342 includes a cover body 3421, and the bus bar 341 is held by the cover body 3421 with the cover body 3421 covering the multiple fusible link portions 3413. In this embodiment, the cover body 3421 includes a frame portion 34211 that holds the connecting portion of the bus bar 341 and the base end side of each load connection portion 3414, and a window portion 34212 that is attached to the frame portion 34211 and covers the fusible link portions 3413. In this embodiment, the window portion 34212 is formed of transparent or translucent resin, and allows the fusible link portions 3413 to be visually observed when the cover 342 is attached to the bus bar 341. Furthermore, a notch 213 is formed in the front wall 21 (peripheral wall 211) of the wall portions 21 that define the storage space 271 of the case 2, so that the fusible link portion 3413 can be seen even when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is stored in the storage space 271.

[0061] The cover main body 3421 has a generally thin plate shape with a small thickness in the X direction, and is formed to have a shape that is generally two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to an imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction. Furthermore, the shape of the cover main body 3421 is generally plane-symmetric with respect to a first imaginary plane P1, which is a plane perpendicular to the Y direction, and is also generally plane-symmetric with respect to a second imaginary plane P2, which is a plane perpendicular to the X direction.

[0062] By attaching the cover body 3421 to the bus bar 341, the main body 340 (the portion of the multi-fusible link unit 34 other than the protrusions 3422, which will be described later) is formed. In this embodiment, the main body 340 is also formed to have a shape that is approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to an imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction. Furthermore, the shape of the main body 340 is approximately plane-symmetric with respect to a first imaginary plane P1, which is a plane perpendicular to the Y direction, and is also approximately plane-symmetric with respect to a second imaginary plane P2, which is a plane perpendicular to the X direction. In other words, the shape of the portion of the bus bar 341 exposed from the cover body 3421 (the eight load connection portions 3414) is also approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to the imaginary line L1, and is approximately plane-symmetric with respect to the first imaginary plane P1.

[0063] In this way, the appearance of the main body 340 is shaped so that it can be inserted into the storage space 271 even when rotated 180 degrees around the Z direction (when flipped from the normal position to the reverse position, or from the reverse position to the normal position).

[0064] In this embodiment, the allowable current value of the fusible link portion 3413 is set according to the electric wire 91 to be connected, and among the multiple fusible links 3413, there are fusible links 3413 with different allowable current values. If the fusible links 3413 have the same shape, they have the same allowable current value, and if the shapes are different, they have different allowable current values. In this way, the allowable current value of each fusible link 3413 can be confirmed by visually checking the shape of the fusible link 3413.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the shapes of the eight load connection parts 3414 are designed to be two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to the virtual line L1 extending in the Z direction, and are designed to be plane-symmetric with respect to the first virtual plane P1, which is a plane perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0066] On the other hand, the shape of the fusible link portion 3413 is asymmetric with respect to both the imaginary line L1 and the first imaginary plane P1. Therefore, the order of the allowable current values ​​of the fusible link portion 3413 differs between the normal position and the reverse position (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0067] In this way, by forming a plurality of fusible link portions 3413, which change the order of the allowable current values ​​when inverted, on a plate-shaped bus bar 341, it is possible to form a multi-fusible link unit 34 that supports two different orders. Specifically, it is possible to form two types of multi-fusible link units 34: a multi-fusible link unit 34 whose normal position is the state shown in Fig. 21, and a multi-fusible link unit 34 whose normal position is the state shown in Fig. 22.

[0068] Here, in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the multi-fusible link unit 34 from being inserted incorrectly into the case 2, while further improving the ease of inserting the multi-fusible link unit 34 into the accommodation space 271.

[0069] Specifically, the protrusions 3422 are formed on the main body 340, which is at least one of the main body 340 and the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27. In this embodiment, a pair of protrusions 3422 are formed on both ends in the Y direction at the lower end of the cover main body 3421 so as to protrude outward in the Y direction from the rear half in the X direction.

[0070] A groove 2712 is formed in at least the other of the main body 340 and the power distribution unit holding part (holding part) 27 (see FIGS. 23 and 24). A pair of grooves 2712 are formed at both ends in the Y direction of the main body accommodating space 2711 into which the main body 340 is inserted, so as to communicate with each other on the rear side in the X direction. The grooves 2712 form a space into which the protrusion 3422 is inserted when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodating space 271 in the normal position.

[0071] Furthermore, the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27 is formed with restriction walls 214 that interfere with the protrusions 3422 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in an inverted position (see FIG. 25). The restriction walls 214 are formed on the wall portion 21 (peripheral wall 211) that defines the accommodation space 271, and are formed in front of the openings 27121 of the pair of grooves 2712 so as to be aligned with the openings 27121 in the X direction.

[0072] The protrusion 3422 is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 that can contact the regulating wall 214 and guide the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the normal position. Specifically, the protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 is formed in front of the lower end of the protrusion 3422 so as to be inclined backward and downward.

[0073] As described above, in this embodiment, the multi-fusible link unit 34 has a main body portion 340 formed to have an approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric shape with respect to the imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0074] A protrusion 3422 is formed on the main body 340. Furthermore, the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27 is formed with a groove 2712 that allows the insertion of the protrusion 3422 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted correctly, and a restriction wall 214 that interferes with the protrusion 3422 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted incorrectly.

[0075] That is, the main body 340 is shaped to allow reverse insertion, and when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted backwards, the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restricting wall 214. This prevents the multi-fusible link unit 34 from being accommodated in the accommodating space 271. When the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted correctly, the protrusion 3422 is inserted into the groove 2712 without interfering with the restricting wall 214, allowing the multi-fusible link unit 34 to be accommodated in the accommodating space 271. Here, "correctly inserting the multi-fusible link unit 34" means inserting the multi-fusible link unit 34 into the accommodating space 271 in the correct state (in the correct position). Meanwhile, "reversely inserting the multi-fusible link unit 34" means inserting the multi-fusible link unit 34 in a state rotated 180 degrees about the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction) with respect to the correct position (in the reverse position).

[0076] In this way, in the electrical connection structure 1 according to this embodiment, the shape of the main body 340 is made to be approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to the imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), thereby preventing the shape of the main body 340 from becoming complicated. This makes it possible to manufacture the multi-fusible link unit 34 more cheaply and easily.

[0077] Furthermore, while the shape of the main body 340 allows for reverse insertion, reverse insertion of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is restricted by the protrusion 3422, the restricting wall 214, and the groove 2712. In this way, even if the shape of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is such that there is a risk of reverse insertion, reverse insertion of the multi-fusible link unit 34 can be more reliably prevented.

[0078] Note that the multiple fusible link portions 3413 may have fusible link portions 3413 with different allowable current values. In this way, when there are fusible link portions 3413 with different allowable current values, the order of the allowable current values ​​may differ between when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is in the normal position and when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is in the reverse position.

[0079] Therefore, when the exterior of the main body 340 has a shape with approximately two-fold rotational symmetry and the positional relationship of the multiple fusible link portions 3413 is asymmetric, allowing reverse insertion may result in erroneous coupling of an electric wire that does not correspond to the fusible link portion 3413. For example, there is a risk that an electric wire with a low allowable current value may be erroneously coupled to a fusible link portion 3413 with a high allowable current value. In this way, if an electric wire with a low allowable current value is coupled to a fusible link portion 3413 with a high allowable current value, there is a risk that the fusible link portion 3413 will not melt even if an overcurrent flows through the electric wire, and the overcurrent will continue to flow through the electric wire.

[0080] However, with the electrical connection structure 1 shown in this embodiment, even if the shape of the main body 340 is such that reverse insertion is possible, reverse insertion of the multi-fusible link unit 34 is prevented. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent erroneous coupling of an electric wire that is not compatible with the fusible link portion 3413.

[0081] Furthermore, in the electrical connection structure 1 shown in this embodiment, the protrusion 3422 is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 that can guide the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712. In other words, the protrusion 3422 is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 that can come into contact with the regulating wall 214 and guide the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodating space 271 in the correct position. This makes it easier to accommodate the multi-fusible link unit 34 in the accommodating space 271.

[0082] In this way, the electrical connection structure 1 of this embodiment makes it possible to manufacture the multi-fusible link unit 34 more cheaply and easily, and also makes it possible to further improve the ease of insertion while preventing incorrect insertion of the multi-fusible link unit 34 into the case 2.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the restriction wall 214 is formed with a restriction wall-side inclined surface 2141 that is inclined forward and downward in the X direction. This allows the protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 to come into contact with the restriction wall-side inclined surface 2141 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the inverted position, thereby moving the protrusion 3422 in a direction away from the groove 2712.

[0084] That is, a regulating wall side inclined surface 2141 is formed on the regulating wall 214, and when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reversely inserted, the protrusion side inclined surface 34221 is brought into contact with the regulating wall side inclined surface 2141 to move the protrusion 3422 away from the groove 2712.

[0085] With this configuration, when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reversely inserted and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restriction wall 214, the protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 can be moved along the restriction wall-side inclined surface 2141, thereby moving the protrusion 3422 away from the groove 2712. By moving the protrusion 3422 away from the groove 2712, it is possible to more reliably prevent the protrusion 3422 from being erroneously inserted into the groove 2712 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reversely inserted. As a result, it is possible to prevent the multi-fusible link unit 34 from being forcibly pushed into the accommodating space 271 when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reversely inserted. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the multi-fusible link unit 34 from being erroneously inserted into the case 2.

[0086] In this embodiment, when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the inverted position, the projection-side inclined surface 34221 and the restriction-wall-side inclined surface 2141 are in surface contact with each other.

[0087] This makes it possible to disperse the stress that occurs when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reverse-inserted and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restricting wall 214. In other words, this makes it possible to prevent the stress that occurs when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reverse-inserted and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restricting wall 214 from concentrating in one area. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the protrusion 3422 and the restricting wall 214 from being damaged when the multi-fusible link unit 34 is reverse-inserted.

[0088] In this embodiment, the rear wall portion 21 (partition 212) that defines the storage space 271 also has a partition-side inclined surface 2121 that is inclined forward and downward, and this partition-side inclined surface 2121 also has the function of guiding the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712.

[0089] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electrical connection structure 1 that can accommodate differences in vehicle specifications can be provided at a lower cost. That is, the electrical connection structure 1 that can accommodate whether or not the relief terminal 43 is present can be manufactured at a lower cost.

[0090] Specifically, the battery circuit components 40 other than the power distribution circuit components 30 and the battery circuit bus bar 42 are held in the case 2, thereby forming the base unit 10 as shown in FIGS.

[0091] This base unit 10 is used regardless of whether or not the relief terminal 43 is provided. That is, the base unit 10 shown in Figures 5 and 6 is used whether the electrical connection structure 1 is one that does not have the relief terminal 43 or one that has the relief terminal 43. This allows for as many common parts as possible to be used.

[0092] The battery circuit bus bar 42 includes a normal bus bar 421 that does not have a relief terminal 43, and a bus bar with relief terminal 422 that has a relief terminal 43. In this way, when the electrical connection structure 1 is configured without the relief terminal 43, the normal bus bar 421 is attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412. On the other hand, when the electrical connection structure 1 is configured with the relief terminal 43, at least the bus bar with relief terminal 422 is attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412.

[0093] In this manner, in this embodiment, at least one of normal bus bar 421 and bus bar 422 with relief terminal is selectively attached to first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412.

[0094] That is, by attaching a bus bar (normal bus bar 421) that does not have a relief terminal 43 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 provided on the base unit 10, it is possible to obtain an electrical connection structure 1 that does not have a relief terminal 43. In this way, when it is not necessary to provide the electrical connection structure 1 with a relief terminal 43, it is possible to meet the demand for an electrical connection structure 1 that does not have a relief terminal 43.

[0095] On the other hand, by attaching a bus bar (bus bar 422 with relief terminal 43) having a relief terminal 43 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 provided on the base unit 10, it is possible to obtain an electrical connection structure 1 provided with a relief terminal 43. This makes it possible to deal with cases where it is necessary to provide the electrical connection structure 1 with a relief terminal 43.

[0096] In this way, the electrical connection structure 1 shown in this embodiment uses the base unit 10 as a common component. Then, by selectively attaching the normal bus bar 421 and / or the bus bar with relief terminal 422 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 provided on the base unit 10, it is possible to accommodate the presence or absence of the relief terminal 43.

[0097] In other words, by simply preparing multiple types of bus bars that can be selectively attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 provided on the base unit 10, an electrical connection structure 1 can be obtained that can accommodate the presence or absence of a relief terminal 43.

[0098] Therefore, compared to preparing a new case separately or providing a relief terminal 43 in the power distribution circuit component 30, the cost of manufacturing the electrical connection structure 1 that can accommodate the presence or absence of a relief terminal 43 can be reduced.

[0099] In this way, with the configuration shown in this embodiment, it becomes possible to provide an electrical connection structure 1 that can accommodate differences in vehicle specifications at a lower cost.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base unit 10 includes a second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 that is electrically connected to the load 7 to form part of the battery circuit 4 and is held by the case 2.

[0101] The normal bus bar 421 is a bus bar that can be attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 to electrically connect the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0102] Specifically, normal bus bar 421 is formed with a first through hole 4211 through which first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is inserted and a second through hole 4212 through which second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is inserted. When normal bus bar 421 is attached, first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is inserted into first through hole 4211, and second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is inserted into second through hole 4212. In this way, when attached to first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and second bolt (load connection terminal) 413, first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 are electrically connected to each other. In addition, a frame-shaped locking piece 4213 is formed on the normal bus bar 421, and when the normal bus bar 421 is attached to the base unit 10, this locking piece 4213 is engaged with a locking protrusion 4113 formed on the base 411.

[0103] Further, bus bar 422 with relief terminal includes normal bus bar portion 4221 having a substantially rectangular plate shape, and relief terminal portion 4222 connected to normal bus bar portion 4221 and serving as relief terminal 43. Here, normal bus bar portion 4221 refers to a portion that is attached to first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 and can electrically connect first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and second bolt (load connection terminal) 413. In this embodiment, normal bus bar portion 4221 is formed with first through hole 42211 through which first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is inserted and second through hole 42212 through which second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is inserted. When attaching the normal busbar portion 4221, the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 is inserted into the first through-hole 42211, and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 is inserted into the second through-hole 42212. In this manner, the normal busbar portion 4221 is attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413, thereby electrically connecting the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413. Note that the normal busbar portion 4221 also has a frame-shaped locking piece 42213 formed thereon, and when attaching the normal busbar portion 4221 to the base unit 10, the locking piece 42213 is locked to a locking protrusion 4113 formed on the base 411.

[0104] In addition, the rescue terminal portion 4222 is usually formed to protrude upward from the bus bar portion 4221, and by connecting the clip portion of a booster cable with the rescue terminal cover 5 described later open, the battery 6 can be charged from another vehicle.

[0105] Then, either the normal bus bar 421 or the bus bar with relief terminal 422 is selectively attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413. That is, in any electrical connection structure 1, only one of the normal bus bar 421 and the bus bar with relief terminal 422 is attached to the base unit 10.

[0106] In this way, an electrical connection structure 1 provided with a relief terminal 43 can be obtained simply by attaching only the bus bar 422 with a relief terminal to the first bolt 412 and the second bolt 413 provided on the base unit 10.

[0107] In other words, in order to provide a relief terminal 43 in the electrical connection structure 1, it is no longer necessary to attach both the normal bus bar 421 and the bus bar with relief terminal 422 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0108] This makes it possible to further simplify the manufacturing process of the electrical connection structure 1 provided with the relief terminal 43, and makes it possible to more easily obtain the electrical connection structure 1 provided with the relief terminal 43.

[0109] In this embodiment, in the state of the base unit 10, the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 are electrically insulated. Therefore, in order to create an electrical connection structure 1 that does not have a relief terminal 43, it is necessary to attach the normal bus bar 421 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 that are provided on the base unit 10. On the other hand, in order to create an electrical connection structure 1 that has a relief terminal 43, it is necessary to attach the relief terminal-equipped bus bar 422 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413 that are provided on the base unit 10.

[0110] In this way, in this embodiment, the presence or absence of a relief terminal 43 can be accommodated by attaching either a normal bus bar 421 or a bus bar with a relief terminal 422 to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412 and the second bolt (load connection terminal) 413.

[0111] Therefore, with the configuration shown in this embodiment, simply by checking the type of battery circuit bus bar 42 installed, it becomes possible to check not only whether or not there is a relief terminal 43, but also whether or not there is an electrical connection between the first bolt 412 and the second bolt 413.

[0112] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when bus bar 422 with relief terminal is attached to first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412, relief terminal cover 5 is provided which can cover relief terminal 43 in an openable and closable manner.

[0113] This not only allows the relief terminal 43 to be protected by the relief terminal cover 5 when not in use, but also more reliably prevents fingers, tools, etc. from coming into contact with the relief terminal 43 when the relief terminal 43 is not in use.

[0114] In this embodiment, the relief terminal cover 5 is rotatably attached to the case 2. Specifically, the relief terminal cover 5 includes a cover main body 51 that covers the relief terminals 43, a shaft 52 that is held by a bearing 215 and a shaft holding protrusion 216 formed on the case 2, and a shaft holding portion 53 that holds the shaft 52. The relief terminal cover 5 can be rotated between a closed state shown in FIG. 1 and an open state shown in FIG. 29.

[0115] This makes it easier to open and close the relief terminal 43 using the relief terminal cover 5. Also, by attaching the relief terminal cover 5 to the case 2, it is possible to more reliably prevent the relief terminal cover 5 from being lost when using the relief terminal 43, etc.

[0116] 27 to 29 show an example of a method for attaching the relief terminal cover 5 to the case 2 before attaching the relief terminal bus bar 422, but the method is not limited to this. For example, the relief terminal cover 5 can be attached to the case 2 after the relief terminal bus bar 422 is attached, or at the same time as the relief terminal bus bar 422 is attached.

[0117] [Actions and Effects] The following describes the characteristic configuration of the electrical connection structure shown in the above embodiment and the effects obtained thereby.

[0118] (1) The electrical connection structure 1 shown in the above embodiment comprises a case 2 having a power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27, and a power distribution unit 34 inserted and held in the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27.

[0119] The power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27 also has an accommodation space 271 that opens to the upper side (one side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). The accommodation space 271 is a space that accommodates the power distribution unit 34 by moving the power distribution unit 34 relatively to the lower side (the other side) in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction) with respect to the case 2. The power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27 also has a wall portion 21 that defines the accommodation space 271.

[0120] Here, the power distribution unit 34 includes a main body 340 formed to have a shape that is approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to an imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction). The main body 340 has a power supply connection portion 3411 and a plurality of load connection portions 3414, and includes a bus bar 341 that is capable of distributing power. The main body 340 also has a plurality of fuse portions 3413 interposed between the power supply connection portion 3411 and the load connection portion 3414, and a cover 342 that holds the bus bar 341.

[0121] Furthermore, at least one of the main body 340 and the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27 has a protrusion 3422 formed thereon.

[0122] Meanwhile, a groove 2712 into which the protrusion 3422 is inserted when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the normal position is formed on at least the other of the main body 340 and the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27. Furthermore, a restriction wall 214 that interferes with the protrusion 3422 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the inverted position is formed on at least the other of the main body 340 and the power distribution unit holding portion (holding portion) 27.

[0123] The protrusion 3422 is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 that can contact the regulating wall 214 and guide the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the normal position.

[0124] In this way, in the electrical connection structure 1 shown in the above embodiment, the power distribution unit 34 has a main body portion 340 formed to have an approximately two-fold rotational symmetry shape with respect to the imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction).

[0125] Then, a protrusion 3422 is formed on the main body 340 and / or the holding part 27. Furthermore, a groove 2712 that allows insertion of the protrusion 3422 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted correctly, and a restriction wall 214 that interferes with the protrusion 3422 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted incorrectly are formed on the holding part 27 and / or the main body 340.

[0126] That is, the main body 340 is shaped to allow reverse insertion, but when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards, the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restriction wall 214, preventing the power distribution unit 34 from being accommodated in the accommodation space 271. When the power distribution unit 34 is inserted correctly, the protrusion 3422 is inserted into the groove 2712 without interfering with the restriction wall 214, allowing the power distribution unit 34 to be accommodated in the accommodation space 271. Here, "correctly inserting the power distribution unit 34" means inserting the power distribution unit 34 into the accommodation space 271 in the correct state (in the normal position). Meanwhile, "reversely inserting the power distribution unit 34" means inserting the power distribution unit 34 into the accommodation space 271 in a state where the power distribution unit 34 is rotated 180 degrees about the Z direction (up-down direction: first direction) with respect to the normal position (in the reverse position).

[0127] In this way, in the electrical connection structure 1 shown in the above embodiment, the shape of the main body 340 is made to be approximately two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to the imaginary line L1 extending in the Z direction (vertical direction: first direction), thereby preventing the shape of the main body 340 from becoming complicated. This makes it possible to manufacture the power distribution unit 34 more cheaply and easily.

[0128] The main body 340 is shaped to allow reverse insertion, while the reverse insertion of the power distribution unit 34 is restricted by the protrusion 3422, the restricting wall 214, and the groove 2712. In this way, even if the power distribution unit 34 is shaped in a way that may lead to reverse insertion, it is possible to more reliably prevent the power distribution unit 34 from being inserted reversely.

[0129] Note that the plurality of fuse portions 3413 may have fuse portions 3413 with different allowable current values. In this way, when the fuse portions 3413 have different allowable current values, the order of the allowable current values ​​may differ between when the power distribution unit 34 is in the normal position and when the power distribution unit 34 is in the reverse position.

[0130] Therefore, when the exterior of the main body 340 has a shape with approximately two-fold rotational symmetry and the arrangement of the multiple fuse portions 3413 is asymmetric, if the power distribution unit 34 is designed to be inserted in reverse, an electric wire that does not correspond to the fuse portion 3413 may be mistakenly coupled. For example, there is a risk that an electric wire with a low allowable current value may be mistakenly coupled to a fuse portion 3413 with a high allowable current value. In this way, if an electric wire with a low allowable current value is coupled to a fuse portion 3413 with a high allowable current value, there is a risk that the fuse portion 3413 will not melt even if an overcurrent flows through the electric wire, and the overcurrent may continue to flow through the electric wire.

[0131] However, with the electrical connection structure 1 described in the above embodiment, even if the shape of the main body 340 is such that reverse insertion is possible, reverse insertion of the power distribution unit 34 is prevented. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent erroneous coupling of an electric wire that does not correspond to the fuse portion 3413.

[0132] Furthermore, in the electrical connection structure 1 shown in the above embodiment, the protrusion 3422 is formed with a protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 that can come into contact with the regulating wall 214 and guide the protrusion 3422 into the groove 2712 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the normal position. This makes it possible to more easily accommodate the power distribution unit 34 in the accommodation space 271.

[0133] In this way, by using the electrical connection structure 1 shown in the above embodiment, it becomes possible to manufacture the power distribution unit 34 more cheaply and easily, and it becomes possible to further improve the ease of insertion while preventing incorrect insertion of the power distribution unit 34 into the case 2.

[0134] (2) The regulating wall 214 may also be formed with a regulating wall side inclined surface 2141 that can be brought into contact with the protrusion side inclined surface 34221 to move the protrusion 3422 in a direction away from the groove 2712 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the storage space 271 in an inverted position.

[0135] That is, a regulating wall side inclined surface 2141 may be formed on the regulating wall 214, and when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted in reverse, the protrusion side inclined surface 34221 may be brought into contact with the regulating wall side inclined surface 2141 so that the protrusion 3422 moves away from the groove 2712.

[0136] With this arrangement, when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restriction wall 214, the protrusion-side inclined surface 34221 can be moved along the restriction wall-side inclined surface 2141, thereby moving the protrusion 3422 away from the groove 2712. By moving the protrusion 3422 away from the groove 2712, it is possible to more reliably prevent the protrusion 3422 from being erroneously inserted into the groove 2712 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards. With this arrangement, it is possible to prevent the power distribution unit 34 from being forcibly pushed into the accommodation space 271 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards, and it is possible to more reliably prevent the power distribution unit 34 from being erroneously inserted into the case 2.

[0137] (3) When the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the inverted position, the projection-side inclined surface 34221 and the restriction-wall-side inclined surface 2141 may be in surface contact with each other.

[0138] This makes it possible to disperse stress that occurs when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restriction wall 214. In other words, it is possible to prevent stress that occurs when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards and the protrusion 3422 interferes with the restriction wall 214 from concentrating in one area. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent damage to the protrusion 3422 and the restriction wall 214 when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted backwards.

[0139] (4) The power distribution unit may be a multi-fusible link unit 34 having a plurality of fusible link portions 3413 as fuse portions.

[0140] In this way, when there are multiple fusible links (fusible link portions 3413) with a larger allowable current value than the fuse 332, the multiple fusible links (fusible link portions 3413) can be inserted and held in the case 2 all at once.

[0141] (5) Furthermore, a plurality of fusible link portions 3413 may be formed on the bus bar 341.

[0142] This eliminates the need to attach individual fusible links to the bus bar, reducing the number of parts and costs. Furthermore, if multiple fusible link portions 3413 are formed on bus bar 341, the multi-fusible link unit 34 can be made thinner.

[0143] [others] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the present embodiment is not limited to this, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present embodiment.

[0144] For example, in the above embodiment, an example is given in which the normal bus bar 421 or the bus bar with relief terminal 422 is selectively attached, but this is not a limitation and various other configurations are possible. For example, a configuration is also possible in which the base unit 10 includes the normal bus bar 421, and the presence or absence of a relief terminal is determined by whether or not the bus bar with relief terminal 422 is attached to the first bolt (battery connection terminal) 412. In this case, attaching the normal bus bar 421 and the bus bar with relief terminal 422 results in an electrical connection structure with a relief terminal. A base unit 10 without the bus bar with relief terminal 422 attached is an electrical connection structure without a relief terminal.

[0145] Moreover, the relief terminal cover 5 may be attached directly to the relief terminal 43 instead of being attached to the case 2 .

[0146] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the multi-fusible link unit 34 is exemplified as the power distribution unit, but the present invention can also be applied to a configuration in which a power integration as the power distribution unit is housed in a case.

[0147] It is also possible to provide a protrusion on the holding portion 27, and provide a groove on the main body 340 into which the protrusion is inserted and a restriction wall that interferes with the protrusion when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in an inverted position. It is also possible to provide a protrusion, a groove, and a restriction wall on the main body 340, and to provide a groove, a restriction wall, and a protrusion at a corresponding position on the holding portion. In other words, any number of pairs of protrusions, grooves, and restriction walls can be formed at any location on the main body 340 and the holding portion 27.

[0148] It is also possible to configure the restriction wall 214 so that the restriction wall side inclined surface 2141 is not formed.

[0149] Furthermore, when the power distribution unit 34 is inserted into the accommodation space 271 in the inverted position, it is also possible to prevent the projection-side inclined surface 34221 and the restriction-wall-side inclined surface 2141 from coming into surface contact with each other.

[0150] The case 2 can also be configured to hold spare parts and tools.

[0151] Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to electrical connection structures that are not designed to accommodate specification differences.

[0152] In addition, the case, power distribution circuit, and other detailed specifications (shape, size, layout, etc.) can also be changed as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1 Electrical connection structure 2 cases 21 Wall 214 Regulatory Wall 2141 Regulation wall side slope 27 Power distribution unit holding part (holding part) 271 Containment Space 2712 Groove 34 Multi-fusible link unit (power distribution unit) 340 Main body 341 Busbar 3411 Power connection 3413 Fusible link part (fuse part) 3414 Load connection 342 Cover 3422 Protrusion 34221 Projection side inclined surface 4222 Relief terminal section 43 Relief terminal 5 Relief terminal cover 6 Battery 7 Load

Claims

1. a case having a holding portion; a power distribution unit inserted and held in the holding portion; Equipped with The holding portion is an accommodation space that opens on one side in a first direction and accommodates the power distribution unit by moving the power distribution unit relative to the case toward the other side in the first direction; a wall portion defining the storage space; Equipped with the power distribution unit includes a bus bar having a power connection portion and a plurality of load connection portions and capable of distributing power, a main body having a plurality of fuse portions interposed between the power connection portion and the load connection portion, and a cover for holding the bus bar; the main body portion is formed to have a shape that is substantially two-fold rotationally symmetric with respect to a virtual line extending in the first direction, a protrusion is formed on at least one of the main body portion and the holding portion, At least the other of the main body and the holding portion is formed with a groove into which the protrusion is inserted when the power distribution unit is inserted into the accommodating space in a normal position, and a restriction wall that interferes with the protrusion when the power distribution unit is inserted into the accommodating space in an inverted position, The protrusion has a protrusion-side inclined surface that can contact the restriction wall and guide the protrusion into the groove when the power distribution unit is inserted into the accommodation space in a normal position. Electrical connection structure.

2. The restriction wall has a restriction wall-side inclined surface that can come into contact with the protrusion-side inclined surface to move the protrusion in a direction away from the groove when the power distribution unit is inserted into the accommodation space in an inverted position. The electrical connection structure according to claim 1 .

3. When the power distribution unit is inserted into the accommodation space in an inverted position, the protrusion-side inclined surface and the restriction wall-side inclined surface are in surface contact with each other. The electrical connection structure according to claim 2 .

4. The power distribution unit is a multi-fusible link unit including a plurality of fusible link portions as the fuse portions. The electrical connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A plurality of the fusible link portions are formed on the bus bar. The electrical connection structure according to claim 4 .

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