Electrical equipment

Abstract

To provide an electric device in which the damage of a substrate can be suppressed for example.SOLUTION: An electric device in an embodiment includes a first substrate, a second substrate apart from the first substrate, an actuator, a liquid control unit provided in a passage, a driving unit provided to the first substrate and configured to drive the actuator, a connection unit that electrically connects the first substrate and the second substrate, a current supply unit provided to the first substrate and configured to supply current, which is smaller than driving current output from the driving unit to the actuator, to the second substrate through the connection unit, a detection unit provided to the first substrate and configured to detect the current, and a blocking unit provided to the first substrate and configured to block the supply of current from the current supply unit to the second substrate when the current detected by the detection unit is over a threshold.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electric device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electric device capable of detecting adhesion of a liquid to a substrate has been known. For example, the substrate has terminals of electric components to be mounted and detection patterns provided near the terminals. When a short circuit occurs between a terminal and the detection pattern, the voltage changes. Therefore, adhesion of a liquid to the substrate can be detected by detecting the voltage (Patent Document 1). [[ID=1,3]]

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional configuration, adhesion of a liquid to the substrate is detected based on a short circuit occurring in the substrate. Therefore, if the current flowing through the circuit of the substrate where the short circuit has occurred is large, the substrate may be damaged.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides an electric device capable of suppressing damage to a substrate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes, as an example, a first substrate, a second substrate spaced apart from the first substrate, an actuator, a liquid control unit provided in a flow path and configured to control the flow of liquid in the flow path by being driven by the actuator, a drive unit provided on the first substrate and configured to drive the actuator, a connection unit for electrically connecting the first substrate and the second substrate, a current supply unit provided on the first substrate and configured to supply a current smaller than the drive current output by the drive unit to the actuator to the second substrate via the connection unit, a detection unit provided on the first substrate for detecting the current, and a cutoff unit provided on the first substrate for cutting off the supply of the current from the current supply unit to the second substrate when the current detected by the detection unit exceeds a threshold, A housing is provided with a first housing chamber in which the first substrate is arranged, a second housing chamber in which the second substrate is arranged, and a third housing chamber which is included in the flow path and in which the liquid control unit is arranged, Equipped with The first containment chamber is spaced apart from the third containment chamber, and the second containment chamber is connected to the third containment chamber. Therefore, for example, if liquid leaking from the flow path comes into contact with the second substrate and causes a short circuit in the second substrate, the current supplied to the second substrate from the current supply unit will increase. As a result, the current detected by the detection unit will exceed the threshold, and the interruption unit will cut off the supply of current to the second substrate. Thus, even if liquid comes into contact with the second substrate, the electrical device can prevent damage to at least one of the first and second substrates. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a hydraulic control device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the ECU and sensor unit of the above embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the ECU in the above embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] An embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 3. In this specification, the vertically upward direction is generally defined as the upward direction, and the vertically downward direction as the downward direction. Furthermore, in this specification, the components of an embodiment and their descriptions may be described using multiple expressions. The components and their descriptions are examples and are not limited by the expressions used in this specification. Components may also be identified by names different from those used in this specification. Furthermore, components may also be described using expressions different from those used in this specification.

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a hydraulic control device 10 according to one embodiment. The hydraulic control device 10 is an example of an electrical device. The hydraulic control device 10 is mounted on a vehicle 1, such as an automobile. The hydraulic control device 10 adjusts the pressure (hydraulic pressure) in the fluid passage of the brake system of the vehicle 1. Note that the hydraulic control device 10 is not limited to this example.

[0010] As shown in each drawing, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined herein for convenience. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is provided along the width of the hydraulic control device 10. The Y-axis is provided along the thickness of the hydraulic control device 10. The Z-axis is provided along the height of the hydraulic control device 10.

[0011] Furthermore, the X, Y, and Z directions are defined herein. The X direction is the direction along the X axis and includes the +X direction indicated by the X-axis arrow and the -X direction which is the opposite direction of the X-axis arrow. The Y direction is the direction along the Y axis and includes the +Y direction indicated by the Y-axis arrow and the -Y direction which is the opposite direction of the Y-axis arrow. The Z direction is the direction along the Z axis and includes the +Z direction (up) indicated by the Z-axis arrow and the -Z direction (down) which is the opposite direction of the Z-axis arrow.

[0012] The hydraulic control device 10 comprises a housing 11, a pump 12, a motor 13, an electronic control unit (ECU) 14, a sensor unit 15, and connecting parts 16. The pump 12 is an example of a liquid control unit. The motor 13 is an example of an actuator and motor. The connecting parts 16 are an example of a connection part. The housing 11 comprises a housing block 21, a motor casing 22, and an ECU cover 23.

[0013] The housing block 21 is, for example, a roughly rectangular block made of metal or synthetic resin. Note that the housing block 21 is not limited to this example. The pump 12 and the ECU 14 are mounted on the housing block 21. Furthermore, various components such as solenoid actuators are mounted on the housing block 21.

[0014] The housing block 21 has a first mounting surface 21a and a second mounting surface 21b. The first mounting surface 21a and the second mounting surface 21b are the outer surfaces of the housing block 21. The first mounting surface 21a is formed to be substantially flat and faces the +Y direction. The second mounting surface 21b is located on the opposite side of the first mounting surface 21a. The second mounting surface 21b is formed to be substantially flat and faces the -Y direction.

[0015] A passage 25 is provided in the housing block 21. The passage 25 opens to the outer surface of the housing block 21 and is connected to the fluid passage of the brake device. Therefore, the hydraulic fluid (brake fluid) of the fluid passage flows through the passage 25. Hydraulic fluid is an example of a liquid. Hydraulic fluid may be conductive by containing, for example, water and impurities. The housing block 21 is not limited to the exemplified passage 25 and may be further provided with various other passages.

[0016] The housing block 21 is further provided with a pump mounting hole 26 and a through hole 27. The pump mounting hole 26 is an example of a third housing chamber. The through hole 27 is an example of a hole. The housing block 21 may also be provided with other holes and grooves.

[0017] The pump mounting hole 26 is provided in the flow path 25. In other words, the pump mounting hole 26 is included in the flow path 25. The hydraulic oil passes through a part of the pump mounting hole 26. That is, a portion where the hydraulic oil does not flow may be provided in the pump mounting hole 26.

[0018] The pump mounting hole 26 is a recess that depresses from the first mounting surface 21a in the substantially -Y direction. The pump mounting hole 26 opens to the first mounting surface 21a at substantially the center of the first mounting surface 21a. The pump mounting hole 26 is connected to the liquid path of the brake device through other parts of the flow path 25.

[0019] The through hole 27 penetrates the housing block 21 in the substantially Y direction. For this reason, the through hole 27 opens at the first mounting surface 21a and the second mounting surface 21b. The through hole 27 is, for example, spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 26 in the +Z direction. Note that the through hole 27 may be spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 26 in other directions. Also, a plurality of through holes 27 may be provided in the housing block 21.

[0020] The motor casing 22 is attached to the first mounting surface 21a. The motor casing 22 has an outer cover 31 and an end cover 32. Note that the motor casing 22 is not limited to this example. For example, the motor casing 22 may omit the end cover 32.

[0021] The outer cover 31 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the Y direction. The end 31a of the outer cover 31 in the +Y direction is closed. The end 31b of the outer cover 31 in the -Y direction is open. The end cover 32 is attached to the outer cover 31 and closes the end 31b of the outer cover 31.

[0022] The end 31b of the outer cover 31 is attached to the first mounting surface 21a of the housing block 21. The space between the outer cover 31 and the first mounting surface 21a is liquid - tightly sealed, for example, by a sealing material surrounding the pump mounting hole 26 and the through hole 27.

[0023] The ECU cover 23 is attached to the second mounting surface 21b. A first accommodation chamber 35 is provided between the ECU cover 23 and the second mounting surface 21b. The first accommodation chamber 35 is a space provided inside the housing 11.

[0024] The first accommodation chamber 35 communicates with the through hole 27. The space between the ECU cover 23 and the second mounting surface 21b is sealed liquid-tightly by, for example, a sealing material. The first accommodation chamber 35 and the pump mounting hole 26 are separated by a part of the housing block 21. That is, the first accommodation chamber 35 is spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 26.

[0025] The pump 12 is, for example, a gear pump. Note that the pump 12 may be another type of pump. At least a part of the pump 12 is accommodated in the pump mounting hole 26. That is, the pump 12 is provided in the flow path 25. The pump 12 can send hydraulic oil in the flow path 25.

[0026] The motor 13 is, for example, a three-phase brushless motor. Note that the motor 13 may be another type of motor. The motor 13 is accommodated in the motor casing 22. For this reason, the first mounting surface 21a faces the motor 13. The motor 13 has a motor shaft 41, two bearings 42, a rotor 43, a stator 44, and motor terminals 45. The motor 13 may include the motor casing 22.

[0027] The motor shaft 41 is the output shaft of the motor 13. The motor shaft 41 is rotatably supported about the central axis Ax by the bearings 42. The central axis Ax is the center of rotation of the motor shaft 41. The pump mounting hole 26 is arranged on the central axis Ax. The two bearings 42 are held, for example, by the end 31a of the outer cover 31 and the end cover 32.

[0028] The rotor 43 is attached to the motor shaft 41. The stator 44 surrounds the rotor 43 and is attached to the outer cover 31. When a drive current is input, the stator 44 rotates the rotor 43 and the motor shaft 41 around the central axis Ax.

[0029] The motor shaft 41 is connected to the rotor of the pump 12. When the motor 13 rotates the motor shaft 41, the rotor of the pump 12 rotates and delivers hydraulic fluid. In other words, the pump 12 controls the flow of hydraulic fluid in the passage 25 when driven by the motor 13. Controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid includes changing the flow velocity, changing the pressure, changing the direction of the flow, interrupting the flow, or causing other effects on the flow.

[0030] The motor terminal 45 has, for example, an electrode connected to the stator 44 and a cover that covers the electrode. The motor terminal 45 penetrates the through hole 27 and extends beyond the second mounting surface 21b.

[0031] In this embodiment, a second housing chamber 47 is provided in the motor casing 22. The second housing chamber 47 is, for example, a space provided between the end cover 32 and the stator 44. However, the second housing chamber 47 is not limited to this example. For example, the second housing chamber 47 may be a space provided between the second mounting surface 21b and the end cover 32.

[0032] The second housing chamber 47 communicates with the through hole 27, for example, through a hole or notch provided in the end cover 32. That is, the through hole 27 connects the first housing chamber 35 and the second housing chamber 47. Furthermore, the second housing chamber 47 communicates with the pump mounting hole 26, for example, through a bearing 42.

[0033] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the ECU 14 and sensor unit 15 of this embodiment. Figure 2 schematically shows the circuits in the ECU 14 and sensor unit 15. As shown in Figure 2, the ECU 14 includes a first substrate 51, a current supply unit 52, a control unit 53, a drive unit 54, a motor interruption unit 55, and a current control unit 56. Note that the ECU 14 is not limited to this example.

[0034] The first substrate 51 is, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). While a glass epoxy substrate can be used as the first substrate 51, other substrates such as flexible substrates may also be used. The first substrate 51 is placed in the first housing chamber 35. The first substrate 51 is positioned along the XZ plane and is attached to the housing block 21, for example, by screws. The first substrate 51 may also be attached to the ECU cover 23.

[0035] Each of the current supply unit 52, control unit 53, drive unit 54, motor interruption unit 55, and current control unit 56 is part of a circuit provided in the ECU 14. The current supply unit 52, control unit 53, drive unit 54, motor interruption unit 55, and current control unit 56 are provided on the first circuit board 51. Each of the current supply unit 52, control unit 53, drive unit 54, motor interruption unit 55, and current control unit 56 may be, for example, a circuit provided on the first circuit board 51, an IC mounted on the first circuit board 51, or a part that is jointly formed by a circuit provided on the first circuit board 51 and an IC mounted on the first circuit board 51.

[0036] The current supply unit 52 is electrically connected, for example, to the battery of the vehicle 1. The current supply unit 52 can supply current (power) to, for example, the control unit 53, the drive unit 54, the motor interruption unit 55, the current control unit 56, and the sensor unit 15.

[0037] The control unit 53 includes, for example, an IC and a microcontroller mounted on the first substrate 51. The control unit 53 controls the hydraulic pressure control device 10. For example, the control unit 53 controls the drive unit 54, the motor cutoff unit 55, the current control unit 56, and the sensor unit 15.

[0038] The drive unit 54 is, for example, an inverter circuit that drives the motor 13. The drive unit 54 is connected to the motor terminal 45 of the motor 13, for example, via a connector. The drive unit 54 can drive the motor 13 by outputting a drive current Id to the motor 13.

[0039] The motor interruption unit 55 is, for example, a relay. The motor interruption unit 55 is provided in the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the drive unit 54. The motor interruption unit 55 can be switched between a state in which the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the drive unit 54 is energized, and a state in which the supply of current from the current supply unit 52 to the drive unit 54 is interrupted.

[0040] The current control unit 56 is provided in the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the sensor unit 15. The current control unit 56 detects the current Is supplied to the sensor unit 15 and can interrupt the supply of current Is to the sensor unit 15 according to the current Is.

[0041] The sensor unit 15 includes a second substrate 61 and a plurality of rotation angle sensors 62. Note that the sensor unit 15 is not limited to this example and may have other components.

[0042] The second substrate 61 is, for example, a PCB. The second substrate 61 may be any other type of substrate. The second substrate 61 is placed in the second housing chamber 47. Therefore, the second substrate 61 is spaced apart from the first substrate 51.

[0043] The second substrate 61 is positioned along the XZ plane and is formed in a substantially annular shape surrounding the motor shaft 41. The first substrate 51 and the second substrate 61 are positioned substantially parallel to each other. The second substrate 61 is attached to the motor casing 22 or the stator 44. Note that the second substrate 61 is not limited to this example.

[0044] The rotation angle sensor 62 is, for example, a Hall IC. However, the rotation angle sensor 62 is not limited to this example and may be an MR sensor, a rotary encoder, or another sensor capable of detecting rotation angles. The rotation angle sensor 62 is mounted on the second circuit board 61. The rotation angle sensor 62 detects the rotation angles of the motor shaft 41 and rotor 43 of the motor 13. The rotation angle sensor 62 may also detect the angular velocity or rotational speed of the motor 13.

[0045] The connecting component 16 is, for example, a busbar, a wire harness, or a cable. One end of the connecting component 16 is connected to the first circuit board 51. The other end of the connecting component 16 is connected to the second circuit board 61. In this way, the connecting component 16 electrically connects the first circuit board 51 and the second circuit board 61.

[0046] As shown in Figure 1, the connecting component 16 extends between the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 61, for example, through the through hole 27 together with the motor terminal 45. The connecting component 16 may also extend through a different hole than the one through which the motor terminal 45 passes.

[0047] The connecting component 16 is connected to the first circuit board 51 and the second circuit board 61. As shown in Figure 2, the current supply unit 52 supplies current Is to the second circuit board 61 and the rotation angle sensor 62 via the connecting component 16. The current supply unit 52 may also supply current to other components mounted on the second circuit board 61. In addition, the output signal of the rotation angle sensor 62 may flow through the connecting component 16.

[0048] The current control unit 56 includes a detection unit 71, a determination unit 72, and a cutoff unit 73. The current control unit 56 may have other parts or components. In addition, the detection unit 71, the determination unit 72, the cutoff unit 73, and several of the other parts or components may be integrated into a single component.

[0049] The detection unit 71 is, for example, an ammeter. The detection unit 71 is provided in the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the connecting component 16. The detection unit 71 detects the current Is supplied from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61. A circuit that adjusts the current output from the current supply unit 52 to a predetermined current Is may be provided between the current supply unit 52 and the detection unit 71.

[0050] The rotation angle sensor 62 consumes less current than the motor 13. Therefore, the current Is supplied from the current supply unit 52 to the second circuit board 61 is smaller than the drive current Id output by the drive unit 54 to the motor 13.

[0051] The determination unit 72 is connected to the detection unit 71. The determination unit 72 determines whether the current Is detected by the detection unit 71 exceeds a predetermined threshold. If the current Is exceeds the threshold, the determination unit 72 outputs a control signal to the cutoff unit 73. The determination unit 72 may also be included in the control unit 53.

[0052] The interruption unit 73 is, for example, a relay. The interruption unit 73 is provided in the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the connecting component 16. The interruption unit 73 can be switched between a state in which the electrical path between the current supply unit 52 and the connecting component 16 is energized, and a state in which the supply of current from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 via the connecting component 16 is interrupted.

[0053] The interruption unit 73 interrupts the supply of current from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 based on the control signal output from the determination unit 72. In other words, the interruption unit 73 interrupts the supply of current Is from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 when the current Is detected by the detection unit 71 exceeds a threshold.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the lower edge 61a of the second substrate 61 is located lower than the lower edge 51a of the first substrate 51. Also, as shown in Figure 2, at least a portion of the wiring 61b on the second substrate 61 is located lower than the wiring 51b on the first substrate 51. The wiring 61b is wiring provided on the second substrate 61 and is electrically connected to the first substrate via the connecting component 16. The wiring 51b, 61b includes, for example, a wiring pattern and other components or parts connected to the wiring pattern.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the lower end 47a of the second housing chamber 47 is located below the end 27a of the through hole 27 that opens into the second housing chamber 47. Furthermore, at least a portion of the wiring 61b on the second substrate 61 is located below the end 27a of the through hole 27 that opens into the second housing chamber 47.

[0056] In the hydraulic control device 10 described above, the pump 12 installed in the pump mounting hole 26 of the flow path 25 essentially seals the space between the flow path 25 and the second containment chamber 47. However, hydraulic fluid Fb may leak from the pump 12.

[0057] The hydraulic fluid Fb leaking from the pump 12 enters the second storage chamber 47, for example, through the bearing 42. In the second storage chamber 47, the hydraulic fluid Fb moves downward due to gravity. The space between the housing block 21 and the outer cover 31 is sealed. Therefore, the hydraulic fluid Fb accumulates in the second storage chamber 47.

[0058] As the level of the hydraulic fluid Fb accumulating in the second containment chamber 47 rises, the hydraulic fluid Fb adheres to the second substrate 61. The hydraulic fluid Fb, for example, adheres to the exposed lands (pads) of the wiring 61b, causing a short circuit on the second substrate 61.

[0059] When a short circuit occurs in the second substrate 61, the current Is supplied from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 via the connecting component 16 increases, causing an overcurrent (overload). When the increased current Is exceeds a threshold, the determination unit 72 outputs a control signal to the interruption unit 73. Based on the control signal, the interruption unit 73 cuts off the supply of current Is from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61.

[0060] The determination unit 72 may output a signal to the control unit 53 if the current Is exceeds a threshold. Based on this signal, the control unit 53 outputs a control signal to the motor interruption unit 55. Based on this control signal, the motor interruption unit 55 cuts off the supply of current from the current supply unit 52 to the drive unit 54. As a result, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent a short circuit from occurring between the drive unit 54 and the motor 13.

[0061] Furthermore, based on the above signal, the control unit 53 may notify the driver (user) of the ingress of hydraulic fluid Fb into the second containment chamber 47 by illuminating a lamp, activating a horn, communicating, or by other means. Based on this notification, the driver can repair the hydraulic control device 10.

[0062] As described above, the hydraulic fluid Fb causes a short circuit in the second substrate 61. However, the current Is supplied by the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 is smaller than the drive current Id output by the drive unit 54. Therefore, the impact of the short circuit in the second substrate 61 is smaller than the impact of a short circuit between the drive unit 54 and the motor 13.

[0063] When the hydraulic fluid Fb level in the second containment chamber 47 reaches the end 27a of the through-hole 27, there is a possibility that the hydraulic fluid Fb will enter the first containment chamber 35 through the through-hole 27. However, the hydraulic fluid Fb adheres to the second substrate 61 before reaching the through-hole 27. Therefore, before the hydraulic fluid Fb reaches the through-hole 27, the shut-off unit 73 cuts off the supply of current Is to the second substrate 61, allowing the operator to notice the intrusion of hydraulic fluid Fb into the second containment chamber 47.

[0064] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the ECU 14 in this embodiment. First, the detection unit 71 detects the current Is (S1). Next, the determination unit 72 determines whether the current Is detected by the detection unit 71 exceeds a predetermined threshold (S2). If the current Is does not exceed the threshold (S2: No), the process returns to S1.

[0065] On the other hand, if the current Is exceeds the threshold in S2 (S2: Yes), the determination unit 72 causes the interruption unit 73 to interrupt the supply of current Is from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 (S3). Furthermore, the control unit 53 causes the motor interruption unit 55 to interrupt the supply of current from the current supply unit 52 to the drive unit 54 (S4).

[0066] As described above, the hydraulic control device 10 can detect that hydraulic fluid Fb has entered the second containment chamber 47 due to a short circuit in the second circuit board 61. However, the detection of hydraulic fluid Fb entering the second containment chamber 47 by the hydraulic control device 10 is not limited to the above example.

[0067] In the above example, the hydraulic fluid Fb accumulated in the second housing chamber 47 causes a short circuit in the second circuit board 61. However, for example, liquid leaking from a component or liquid entering the second housing chamber 47 from outside the housing 11 may also cause a short circuit in the second circuit board 61.

[0068] In the hydraulic control device 10 according to the embodiment described above, the first substrate 51 and the second substrate 61 are spaced apart from each other and electrically connected to each other by a connecting component 16. The first substrate 51 is provided with a drive unit 54, a current supply unit 52, a detection unit 71, and a cutoff unit 73. The drive unit 54 drives the motor 13. The current supply unit 52 supplies a current Is smaller than the drive current Id output by the drive unit 54 to the motor 13 to the second substrate 61 via the connecting component 16. Therefore, the current Is flowing through the wiring 61b of the second substrate 61 connected to the connecting component 16 is smaller than at least the drive current Id output by the drive unit 54 of the first substrate 51. The detection unit 71 detects the current Is. The cutoff unit 73 cuts off the supply of current Is from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 when the current Is detected by the detection unit 71 exceeds a threshold. For example, if hydraulic fluid Fb leaks from the flow path 25 and comes into contact with the second substrate 61, causing a short circuit in the second substrate 61, the current Is supplied from the current supply unit 52 to the second substrate 61 increases. As a result, the current Is detected by the detection unit 71 exceeds a threshold, and the interruption unit 73 cuts off the supply of current Is to the second substrate 61. Therefore, even if hydraulic fluid Fb comes into contact with the second substrate 61, the hydraulic control device 10 can suppress damage to the second substrate 61 due to the continued supply of current Is to the second substrate 61, and prevent damage to the first substrate 51 in a chain reaction along with the second substrate 61. In addition, because the current Is flowing through the wiring 61b of the second substrate 61 is small, the hydraulic control device 10 can suppress the effects of a short circuit that occurs in the second substrate 61.

[0069] The lower end 61a of the second substrate 61 is located lower than the lower end 51a of the first substrate 51. This makes it easier for the second substrate 61 to come into contact with the hydraulic fluid Fb before the first substrate 51 when hydraulic fluid Fb accumulates inside the hydraulic control device 10. As a result, even if hydraulic fluid Fb enters the inside of the hydraulic control device 10, the hydraulic control device 10 can bring the hydraulic fluid Fb into contact with the second substrate 61 before it comes into contact with the first substrate 51. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent the first substrate 51 from being damaged by the hydraulic fluid Fb.

[0070] The housing 11 is provided with a first housing chamber 35 in which the first circuit board 51 is placed, a second housing chamber 47 in which the second circuit board 61 is placed, and a pump mounting hole 26 which is included in the flow path 25 and in which the pump 12 is placed. The first housing chamber 35 is spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 26. The second housing chamber 47 can communicate with the pump mounting hole 26. Because the first housing chamber 35 is spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 26, the hydraulic pressure control device 10 can prevent the hydraulic fluid Fb flowing through the flow path 25 from leaking into the first housing chamber 35. On the other hand, the hydraulic fluid Fb flowing through the flow path 25 may leak from the pump mounting hole 26 into the second housing chamber 47. If the hydraulic fluid Fb that has leaked into the second housing chamber 47 comes into contact with the second circuit board 61, the shut-off unit 73 shuts off the supply of current Is to the second circuit board 61. As a result, even if hydraulic fluid Fb leaks from the flow path 25, the hydraulic control device 10 can bring the hydraulic fluid Fb into contact with the second substrate 61 before it comes into contact with the first substrate 51. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent the first substrate 51 from being damaged by the hydraulic fluid Fb.

[0071] The housing 11 is provided with a through hole 27 that connects the first housing chamber 35 and the second housing chamber 47. The lower end 47a of the second housing chamber 47 is located below the end 27a of the through hole 27 that opens into the second housing chamber 47. As a result, the hydraulic control device 10 can retain the hydraulic fluid Fb that leaks from the flow path 25 into the second housing chamber 47 in the second housing chamber 47 until the liquid level of the hydraulic fluid Fb reaches the through hole 27, thereby preventing the hydraulic fluid Fb from flowing into the first housing chamber 35. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent the first substrate 51 from being damaged by the hydraulic fluid Fb.

[0072] The rotation angle sensor 62 is mounted on the second circuit board 61. The rotation angle sensor 62 can detect the rotation angle of the motor 13. The drive current Id output from the drive unit 54 is generally large because it drives the motor 13. On the other hand, the current Is supplied to the second circuit board 61 is smaller than the drive current Id because it is supplied to the second circuit board 61 as the power supply for the rotation angle sensor 62. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can suppress the effects of a short circuit occurring on the second circuit board 61.

[0073] In the above embodiment, the motor terminal 45 connects the first circuit board 51 and the stator 44. However, the motor terminal 45 may also electrically connect the first circuit board 51 and the stator 44 via the second circuit board 61. In this case, on the second circuit board 61, the wiring through which the current Is flows is located below the wiring through which the drive current Id flows.

[0074] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the pump 12 is an example of a liquid control unit. However, the liquid control unit may be other devices, such as a valve. The valve, for example, is driven by an actuator to switch the direction in which the liquid flows in the flow path. In other words, the valve controls the flow of liquid in the flow path.

[0075] An electrical device according to at least one embodiment described above, as an example, includes a first substrate, a second substrate spaced apart from the first substrate, an actuator, a liquid control unit provided in a flow path and configured to control the flow of liquid in the flow path by being driven by the actuator, a drive unit provided on the first substrate and configured to drive the actuator, a connection unit that electrically connects the first substrate and the second substrate, a current supply unit provided on the first substrate and configured to supply a current smaller than the drive current output by the drive unit to the actuator to the second substrate via the connection unit, a detection unit provided on the first substrate for detecting the current, and a cutoff unit provided on the first substrate for cutting off the supply of the current from the current supply unit to the second substrate when the current detected by the detection unit exceeds a threshold. Thus, as an example, the current flowing in the wiring of the second substrate connected to the connection unit is smaller than the drive current output by the drive unit of the first substrate. For example, if liquid leaking from the flow path comes into contact with the second substrate and causes a short circuit in the second substrate, the current supplied to the second substrate from the current supply unit will increase. As a result, the current detected by the detection unit will exceed the threshold, and the interruption unit will cut off the supply of current to the second substrate. Therefore, even if liquid comes into contact with the second substrate, the electrical device can suppress damage to the second substrate due to continued current supply to the second substrate, and prevent the first substrate from being damaged in a chain reaction along with the second substrate. In addition, because the current flowing through the wiring of the second substrate is small, the electrical device can suppress the effects of a short circuit that occurs in the second substrate.

[0076] In the above-described electrical device, for example, the lower edge of the second substrate is located lower than the lower edge of the first substrate. Therefore, for example, if liquid accumulates inside the electrical device, the second substrate is more likely to come into contact with the liquid before the first substrate. As a result, even if liquid enters the electrical device, the second substrate can come into contact with the liquid before the first substrate does. Therefore, the electrical device can prevent the first substrate from being damaged by the liquid.

[0077] As an example, the above-described electrical device further comprises a housing provided with a first housing chamber in which the first substrate is arranged, a second housing chamber in which the second substrate is arranged, and a third housing chamber included in the flow path and in which the liquid control unit is arranged, wherein the first housing chamber is spaced apart from the third housing chamber, and the second housing chamber is able to communicate with the third housing chamber. Therefore, as an example, since the first housing chamber is spaced apart from the third housing chamber, the electrical device can suppress leakage of the liquid flowing through the flow path into the first housing chamber. On the other hand, the liquid flowing through the flow path may leak from the third housing chamber into the second housing chamber. When the liquid that has leaked into the second housing chamber comes into contact with the second substrate, the shut-off unit shuts off the supply of current to the second substrate. As a result, even if liquid leaks from the flow path, the electrical device can bring the liquid into contact with the second substrate before the liquid comes into contact with the first substrate. Therefore, the electrical device can prevent the first substrate from being damaged by the liquid.

[0078] In the above-described electrical device, for example, the housing is provided with a hole connecting the first housing chamber and the second housing chamber, and the lower end of the second housing chamber is located below the end of the hole that opens into the second housing chamber. Therefore, for example, the electrical device can retain liquid that has leaked from the flow path into the second housing chamber in the second housing chamber until the liquid level reaches the hole, thereby preventing the liquid from flowing into the first housing chamber. Consequently, the electrical device can prevent the first substrate from being damaged by the liquid.

[0079] As an example, the above electrical device further includes a rotation angle sensor mounted on the second substrate, the actuator has a motor, and the rotation angle sensor can detect the rotation angle of the motor. Therefore, as an example, the drive current output from the drive unit is generally large because it drives the motor. On the other hand, the current supplied to the second substrate is smaller than the drive current because it is supplied to the second substrate as a power source for the rotation angle sensor. For this reason, the electrical device can suppress the effects of a short circuit occurring on the second substrate.

[0080] In the above explanation, suppression is defined, for example, as preventing the occurrence of an event, effect, or influence, or reducing the degree of an event, effect, or influence.

[0081] Although embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated above, these embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the configurations and shapes of each embodiment and modification can be partially replaced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 10...Hydraulic pressure control device (electrical device), 11...Housing, 12...Pump (liquid control unit), 13...Motor (actuator), 16...Connecting parts (connection part), 25...Flow path, 26...Pump mounting hole (third housing chamber), 27...Through hole (hole), 27a...End, 35...First housing chamber, 47...Second housing chamber, 47a...End, 51...First circuit board, 51a...End, 52...Current supply unit, 54...Drive unit, 61...Second circuit board, 61a...End, 62...Rotation angle sensor, 71...Detection unit, 73...Shut-off unit, Is...Current, Id...Drive current, Fb...Hydraulic oil (liquid).

Claims

1. The first substrate and A second substrate separated from the first substrate, Actuator and A liquid control unit is provided in the flow path and is configured to control the flow of liquid in the flow path by being driven by the actuator, A drive unit provided on the first substrate and configured to drive the actuator, A connection part that electrically connects the first substrate and the second substrate, A current supply unit is provided on the first substrate and configured to supply a current smaller than the drive current output by the drive unit to the actuator to the second substrate via the connection unit, A detection unit is provided on the first substrate for detecting the current, A cutoff unit is provided on the first substrate, which cuts off the supply of current from the current supply unit to the second substrate when the current detected by the detection unit exceeds a threshold value, A housing is provided with a first housing chamber in which the first substrate is arranged, a second housing chamber in which the second substrate is arranged, and a third housing chamber which is included in the flow path and in which the liquid control unit is arranged, It is equipped with, The first containment chamber is separated from the third containment chamber. The second containment chamber is connected to the third containment chamber. Electrical device.

2. The electrical device according to claim 1, wherein the lower end of the second substrate is located lower than the lower end of the first substrate.

3. The housing is provided with a hole that connects the first housing chamber and the second housing chamber. The lower end of the second containment chamber is located below the end of the hole that opens into the second containment chamber. An electrical device according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The rotation angle sensor mounted on the second substrate, Furthermore, it is equipped with, The actuator has a motor, The rotation angle sensor is capable of detecting the rotation angle of the motor. An electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A motor interruption unit provided on the first substrate, which interrupts the supply of current from the current supply unit to the drive unit when the current detected by the detection unit exceeds a threshold value, An electrical device further comprising any one of claims 1 to 4.

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