Microinverter

Abstract

The present invention relates to a microinverter which comprises: a case having an inner space; a circuit board disposed inside the case; a first connector supported by the case and directly connected to one side of the circuit board; and a second connector supported by the case and directly connected to another side of the circuit board.

Description

microinverter

[0001] The present invention relates to a micro inverter.

[0002] An inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). It is used in various industrial applications, including electric motor drives, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and active power filters, as well as in renewable energy conversion systems, including solar power generation, and hybrid vehicles.

[0003] Recently, the solar power inverter market, centered around the US, has been adopting microinverters. Microinverters are distributed systems that convert direct current to alternating current at the module level, with each individual solar cell module equipped with a small inverter.

[0004] Microinverters have a printed circuit board array (PCBA) that internally converts current. This PCBA is equipped with a DC connector for connecting to the solar module and an AC connector for connecting to the AC cable that distributes the generated power. However, due to the miniaturized size of the microinverter, there are limitations in the connector mounting location and assembly stability, and the degree of freedom in internal design is limited.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a micro inverter having improved assembly stability while facilitating design modification and device miniaturization by independently providing mounting positions for a DC connector and an AC connector connected to an inverter.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a micro inverter is provided, including a case having an internal space, a circuit board arranged inside the case, a first connector supported by the case and having a first terminal directly connected to one side of the circuit board, and a second connector supported by the case and spaced apart from the first connector and having a second terminal directly connected to the other side of the circuit board.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a micro inverter can simplify the internal structure of the inverter by connecting the first connector and the second connector separately to a circuit board, thereby improving the degree of freedom in inverter structural design and being advantageous for miniaturization of the device.

[0008] In addition, the micro inverter has a robust assembly structure with the case when the first connector and the second connector are directly connected to the circuit board, so that power conversion performance can be stably operated.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a micro inverter according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the micro inverter of Figure 1.

[0011] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the first connector of Figure 1.

[0012] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the first connector of Figure 3.

[0013] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 1 where the first connector is assembled.

[0014] Fig. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the micro inverter viewed in the AA' direction of Fig. 5.

[0015] Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the second connector of Fig. 1.

[0016] Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 1 where the second connector is assembled.

[0017] Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the micro inverter viewed in the BB' direction of Fig. 8.

[0018] One aspect of the present invention provides a micro inverter including a case having an internal space, a circuit board arranged inside the case, a first connector supported by the case and having a first terminal directly connected to one side of the circuit board, and a second connector supported by the case and spaced apart from the first connector and having a second terminal directly connected to the other side of the circuit board.

[0019] Additionally, the first terminal may have a first terminal tab connected to a cable at one end, a connecting tube arranged between the other end of the first terminal tab and the circuit board, and a fixing member penetrating the connecting tube to connect the first terminal tab and the circuit board.

[0020] Additionally, the first connector may have a guide piece supporting both sides of the first terminal tab, a support pin penetrating the first terminal tab, and an insert groove supporting one side of the first terminal tab and accommodating the support pin.

[0021] In addition, the case may have a first mount portion having a first mount groove and a first mount protrusion, in which the first connector is mounted, and the first connector may have a first housing having a first connector protrusion inserted into the first mount groove and a first connector groove into which the first mount protrusion is inserted.

[0022] Additionally, the first housing may further include a first insert groove into which the first fitting piece of the case is inserted.

[0023] Additionally, the second terminal may have a second terminal tab whose end is inserted into a connection hole of the circuit board.

[0024] Additionally, the case may have a second mount portion having a second connector mounted thereon and a second mount groove and a second mount protrusion, and the second connector may have a second housing having a second connector protrusion inserted into the second mount groove and a second connector groove into which the second mount protrusion is inserted.

[0025] Additionally, the second housing may further include a second insert groove into which the second fitting piece of the case is inserted.

[0026] Additionally, the case may have a support block that protrudes inwardly and supports the first connector and the second connector.

[0027] The present invention is capable of various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0029] In the examples below, the terms first, second, etc. are not used in a limiting sense, but are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0030] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] In the examples below, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0032] In the following examples, when a part such as an area, component, etc. is said to be on or above another part, it includes not only the case where it is directly above the other part, but also the case where another area, component, etc. is interposed in between.

[0033] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0034] In the following examples, when it is said that areas, components, etc. are connected, it includes not only cases where the areas or components are directly connected, but also cases where other areas or components are interposed between the areas or components and are indirectly connected.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a micro inverter (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, a micro inverter (10) can be formed by connecting a first connector (300) and a second connector (400) to a case (100) that stores a circuit board therein.

[0037] The case (100) may have an internal space. The case (100) forms the exterior of the micro inverter (10) and may accommodate a circuit board (200) therein (see FIG. 2). The case (100) may fix the position of the circuit board. To this end, the internal shape of the case (100) may correspond to the shape of the circuit board.

[0038] The case (100) can protect the circuit board (200) placed inside. For example, considering the stable operation of the micro inverter (10) and the influence of the surrounding environment, it can have the functions of heat resistance, moisture resistance, water resistance, electrical insulation, cold resistance, oil resistance, impact resistance, and waterproof resistance.

[0039] The case (100) may be comprised of an upper case (110), a lower case (120), and a support bracket (130). The case (100) may be formed by assembling the upper case (110), the lower case (120), and the support bracket (130).

[0040] The upper case (110) and the lower case (120) can be assembled to form a space inside. A circuit board (200) can be accommodated in the internal space of the upper case (110) and the lower case (120).

[0041] The upper case (110) and the lower case (120) may include connection locations of the first connector (300) and the second connector (400). The first connector (300) and the second connector (400) may be interposed between the upper case (110) and the lower case (120). When the upper case (110) and the lower case (120) are assembled, the location where the first connector (300) is connected and the location where the second connector (400) is connected can be set.

[0042] In an optional embodiment, the case (100) may further include a buckle portion (1201).

[0043] The buckle portion (1201) is provided on one side of the case (100) and can be connected to the support bracket (130). The buckle portion (1201) can be fastened to the first hook (1301) of the support bracket (130).

[0044] The support bracket (130) can be placed under the lower case (120). The support bracket (130) can support the lower case (120). The support bracket (130) can be connected to the upper case (110) or the lower case (120).

[0045] According to one embodiment, the support bracket (130) may be connected to the lower case (120) using a snap-fit ​​fastening method. The snap-fit ​​fastening method is a method of fastening two parts without a separate connecting member, since the fastening is formed by the hook being caught in the recessed portion. For example, the support bracket (130) may be provided with a first hook (1301) and a second hook (1302) that are connected to the upper case (110) or the lower case (120).

[0046] The first hook (1301) can be connected to the buckle portion (1201). The first hook (1301) can be fastened by being inserted into the buckle portion (1201).

[0047] Optionally, the support bracket (130) may be provided with an auxiliary buckle portion adjacent to the first hook (1301). The buckle portion (1201) may be provided with an auxiliary hook on one side thereof that can be fastened to the auxiliary buckle portion. Thus, when the first hook (1301) is connected to the buckle portion (1201) from below to above, the auxiliary hook is connected to the auxiliary buckle portion from above to below, so that a stable fastening can be formed between the support bracket (130) and the lower case (120).

[0048] The second hook (1302) may have a structure that contacts one side of the upper case (110) or the lower case (120). At least a portion of the second hook (1302) may be elastic. The second hook (1302) may secure the lower case (120) by force-fitting.

[0049] The support bracket (130) may further include an alignment portion (1303).

[0050] The alignment portion (1303) may be positioned adjacent to the second connector (400) connected to the case (100). According to one embodiment, the alignment portion (1303) may be provided as a guide wall that protrudes from the upper surface of the support bracket (130) and is positioned parallel to both sides of the second connector (400). The alignment portion (1303) may align and support the position of a plug connected to the second connector (400).

[0051] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the micro inverter (10) of Fig. 1.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, the micro inverter (10) may include a case (100), a circuit board (200), a first connector (300), and a second connector (400).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the case (100) may include an upper case (110), a lower case (120), and a support bracket (130).

[0054] The upper case (110) may include a cover portion (111), a joint groove (112), a first fitting piece (113), and a second fitting piece (114).

[0055] The cover portion (111) may be provided in the shape of a plate covering the upper portion of the circuit board (200). The cover portion (111) may correspond to the shape of the upper portion of the circuit board (200). The lower surface of the cover portion (111) may be in contact with the upper portion of the circuit board (200) to fix the position.

[0056] The joint groove (112) may be formed on the bottom surface of the cover portion (111). According to one embodiment, the joint groove (112) may be formed along the perimeter of the bottom surface of the cover portion (111). The joint groove (112) may be provided so as to be connectable to the lower case (120). A portion of the lower case (120) may be fitted into the joint groove (112).

[0057] The first fitting piece (113) is provided on one side of the cover portion (111) and can be in contact with the first connector (300) connected to the case (100). The first fitting piece (113) can be positioned adjacent to the position where the first connector (300) is connected.

[0058] For example, the first fitting piece (113) may be provided with a protrusion protruding from one side of the upper case (110) toward the upper surface of the first connector (300). The first fitting piece (113) may be fastened to one side of the upper surface of the first connector (300).

[0059] The second fitting piece (114) is provided on the other side of the cover part (111) and can be in contact with the second connector (400) connected to the case (100). The second fitting piece (114) can be positioned adjacent to the position where the second connector (400) is connected.

[0060] For example, the second fitting piece (114) may be provided with a projection protruding from the other side of the upper case (110) toward the upper surface of the second connector (400). The second fitting piece (114) may be fastened to one side of the upper surface of the second connector (400).

[0061] The lower case (120) may include a base portion (121), a base protrusion (122), a third fitting portion (123), a fourth fitting portion (124), and a buckle portion (1201).

[0062] The base (121) can support the circuit board (200). The base (121) can be provided in a place shape that surrounds the bottom surface of the circuit board (200). The base (121) can correspond to the bottom surface shape of the circuit board (200). The circuit board (200) can be mounted on the upper surface of the base (121). The upper surface of the base (121) can be in contact with the lower surface of the circuit board (200) to fix the position.

[0063] The base protrusion (122) may be formed on the upper surface of the base portion (121). According to one embodiment, the base protrusion (122) may be formed along the upper periphery of the base portion (121). The base protrusion (122) may be provided so as to be connectable to the upper case (110). The base protrusion (122) may be inserted into a portion of the upper case (110).

[0064] The third fitting piece (123) is provided on one side of the base portion (121) and can be in contact with the first connector (300) connected to the case (100). The third fitting piece (123) can be positioned adjacent to the position where the first connector (300) is connected.

[0065] For example, the third fitting piece (123) may be provided as a projection protruding from one side of the lower case (120) toward the bottom surface of the first connector (300). The third fitting piece (123) may be fastened to one side of the bottom surface of the first connector (300).

[0066] The fourth fitting piece (124) is provided on the other side of the base portion (121) and can be in contact with the second connector (400) connected to the case (100). The fourth fitting piece (124) can be positioned adjacent to the position where the second connector (400) is connected.

[0067] For example, the fourth fitting piece (124) may be provided with a projection protruding from the other side of the lower case (120) toward the bottom surface of the second connector (400). The fourth fitting piece (124) may be fastened to one side of the bottom surface of the second connector (400).

[0068] The buckle portion (1201) may be formed to protrude outward from the side of the lower case (120). The buckle portion (1201) may be connected to the first hook (1301) of the support bracket (130). The buckle portion (1201) may be formed in the shape of a ring or groove on which the first hook (1301) is caught.

[0069] The circuit board (200) may be equipped to convert direct current power into alternating current power. The circuit board (200) may have a first connector (300) connected to one side and a second connector (400) connected to the other side.

[0070] The circuit board (200) can be placed between the upper case (110) and the lower case (120). The circuit board (200) can be accommodated in an internal space formed by assembling the upper case (100) and the lower case (120). The circuit board (200) can be supported by the upper case (100) and the lower case (120) and its position can be fixed.

[0071] The circuit board (200) can be formed by arranging predetermined circuit patterns and circuit components on one or both sides. For example, the circuit board (200) can be provided as a conventional printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The following description assumes that the circuit board (200) is used singly, but it can also be used by integrating multiple layers as needed.

[0072] The circuit board (200) may have a substrate portion (210), a circuit portion (220), a first connection hole (230), and a second connection hole (240).

[0073] The substrate portion (210) has a plate shape, and can have a circuit pattern printed on one or both sides, or can have a surface on which circuit components are arranged. A circuit portion (220) can be arranged on the substrate portion (210).

[0074] The circuit unit (220) may include a circuit for converting direct current power into alternating current power. The circuit unit (220) may include components such as a circuit pattern printed with copper on the substrate unit (210), an integrated circuit (IC), a capacitor, and a transformer. For example, the circuit unit (220) may include each circuit component, including a voltage boost circuit that boosts an input direct current voltage, a conversion circuit that converts direct current power into alternating current power, and the like.

[0075] A first connection hole (230) may be formed on one side of the substrate portion (210), and a second connection hole (240) may be formed on the other side. The first connection hole (230) and the second connection hole (240) may be formed in the shape of holes penetrating the substrate portion (210). The first connection hole (230) may define a position at which the first connector (300) is connected to the substrate portion (210), and the second connection hole (240) may define a position at which the second connector (400) is connected to the substrate portion (210).

[0076] The first connector (300) and the second connector (400) may be provided to connect the micro inverter (10) to the outside. The first connector (300) and the second connector (400) may be connected to an external power source and power system using a cable or other connector.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the first connector (300) may be provided as a direct current (DC) connector, and the second connector (400) may be provided as an alternating current (AC) connector.

[0078] The first connector (300) can be connected to a solar cell module (not shown). A solar cell module is a device that converts light energy into battery energy through the photovoltaic effect. The first connector (300) can receive direct current power generated by the solar module. The first connector (300) can transmit the input direct current power to the circuit board (200).

[0079] The second connector (400) can be connected to a power system (not shown). The second connector (400) can output AC power converted from the circuit board (200). The second connector (400) can transmit the AC power to a user via an AC output cable.

[0080] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the first connector (300) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the first connector (300) of FIG. 3.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first connector (300) may be provided with a first housing (310), a first terminal (320), a cable (330), and a module connection portion (340).

[0082] The first housing (310) forms the exterior of the first connector (300) and may have a space inside. The first housing (310) may accommodate a first terminal (320) inside. The first housing (310) may correspond to the shape of the mounting portion of the first connector (300) in the case (100).

[0083] The first housing (310) may be provided to be connected to the mounting portion of the first connector (300) in the case (100). The upper surface of the first housing (310) may have a shape corresponding to the upper case (110), and the lower surface of the first housing (310) may have a shape corresponding to the lower case (120).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the first housing (310) may be formed by assembling an upper housing (311) and a lower housing (312). A first terminal (320) may be interposed between the upper housing (311) and the lower housing (312). Inside the first housing (310), the first terminal (320) may be connected to a cable (330).

[0085] The upper housing (311) forms the upper surface of the first housing (310) and may be provided with a first connector protrusion (3111), a first insert groove (3112), a support pin (3113), and a guide piece (3114).

[0086] The first connector protrusion (3111) may be formed by protruding a portion from the outer surface of the upper housing (311). The first connector protrusion (3111) may be assembled by coming into contact with the upper case (110).

[0087] The first insert home (3112) may be formed by recessing a portion of the outer surface of the upper housing (311). The first insert home (3112) may be assembled with the first fitting piece (113) described above in FIG. 2.

[0088] The support pin (3113) may be formed in a pin shape that protrudes downward and is positioned on the lower surface of the upper housing (311). The support pin (3113) may secure the first terminal (320) in the internal space of the first housing (310). Referring to FIG. 6, the support pin (3113) may penetrate a portion of the first terminal (320) and be fastened to one side of the lower housing (312).

[0089] The guide piece (3114) may be provided in the shape of a plate that protrudes downward and is positioned on the lower surface of the upper housing (311). The guide piece (3114) may extend and be connected to the lower housing (312).

[0090] The guide piece (3114) can support the first terminal (320) by contacting the first terminal (320) in the internal space of the first housing (310). As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the guide piece (3114) can be positioned on both sides of the first terminal (320). This aligns the position of the first terminal (320), thereby preventing the first terminal (320) from shaking or being dislodged in the width direction.

[0091] The lower housing (312) may include a first connector home (3121).

[0092] The first connector home (3121) may be formed by recessing a portion of the outer surface of the lower housing (311). The first connector home (3121) may be assembled by coming into contact with the lower case (120).

[0093] The first terminal (320) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (200). The first terminal (320) may be formed of a conductive material and configured to transmit power to the circuit board (200). Specifically, the first terminal (320) may receive direct current power and transmit it to the circuit board (200).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the first terminal (320) may be provided in a shape that crosses the interior of the first housing (310). One side of the first terminal (320) may be installed inside the first housing (310), and the other side may be connected to the circuit board (200). The first terminal (320) may be arranged inside the first housing (310), but a portion thereof may extend outside the first housing (310).

[0095] The first terminal (320) may be provided with a first terminal tab (321), a connecting tube (322), and a fixing member (323). The first terminal tab (321) may be connected to a circuit board (200) through the connecting tube (322) and the fixing member (323).

[0096] The first terminal tab (321) may be provided in a shape extending from the inside of the case (100) toward the circuit board (200). The first terminal tab (321) may be provided as a member formed by processing a conductive metal plate, such as punching or bending.

[0097] The first terminal tab (321) may be provided to have a predetermined step. The first terminal tab (321) may form a connection portion with the first housing (310), the circuit board (200), and the cable (330), respectively.

[0098] Specifically, referring to FIG. 4, the first terminal tab (321) has an integral body, but may be provided with a first step portion (3211), a second step portion (3212), and a connection tab (3213).

[0099] The first step portion (3211) is located on the outside of the first housing (310), and a connection tube (322) and a fixing member (323) can be mounted thereon. The first step portion (3211) can be electrically connected to the circuit board (200) through the connection tube (322) and the fixing member (323).

[0100] The first step portion (3211) can be bent in a direction adjacent to the circuit board (200) to form a predetermined step with respect to the second step portion (3212). Accordingly, the first step portion (3211) can stably form a fastening force with the circuit board (200) even if the length of the connecting tube (322) or the fixing member (323) is short.

[0101] The second step portion (3212) is located inside the first housing (310) and can be fixed to the lower housing (312). The second step portion (3212) can have a pin through hole (3123a). The support pin (3113) of the upper housing (311) can pass through the pin through hole (3123a) to fix the position of the second step portion (3212).

[0102] The connection tab (3213) can be connected to the cable (330). The connection tab (3213) can be provided in a V-shaped shape where the portion that comes into contact with the conductor of the cable (330) is opened. By compressing the opened portion of the connection tab (3213), the connection can be made to the conductor of the cable (330).

[0103] A connecting tube (322) may be interposed between the first terminal tab (321) and the circuit board (200). The connecting tube (322) may be provided in a tube shape having a preset length. For example, the connecting tube (322) may be provided as a screw connecting member having threads formed on the inside.

[0104] In one embodiment, the connecting tube (322) is formed of a material having a predetermined compressibility or elasticity, and can have a strong bonding force while its shape is deformed according to the fastening force of the fixing member (323).

[0105] The fixing member (323) can fix the first terminal tab (321) to the circuit board (200). The fixing member (323) can be connected to the circuit board (200) by penetrating the first terminal tab (321) and the connection tube (322).

[0106] In one embodiment, the fixing member (323) may be formed of a conductive material to electrically connect the first terminal tab (321) to the circuit board (200). The fixing member (323) may be formed of a conventional component for connecting a conductive material, and for example, the fixing member (323) may be formed of a screw thread, a pin, or the like. The cable (330) may be formed as a cable into which direct current power is input. One end of the cable (330) may be connected to the first terminal (320), and the other end may extend to the outside. The cable (330) may be connected to the first terminal tab (321) inside the first housing (310).

[0107] The module connector (340) may be connected to the power generation module that provides direct current power. For example, the module connector (340) may be provided with an MC4 connector that is connected to a solar cell module.

[0108] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the assembly of the first connector (300) and the case (100), and FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the micro inverter viewed in the AA' direction of FIG. 5.

[0109] Specifically, FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the inside of the case (100) when the first connector (300) is mounted on the case (100). At this time, the upper case (110) is omitted to explain the connection between the first connector (300) and the circuit board (200).

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, when the first connector (300) is mounted on the case (100), a portion of the first housing (310) can be inserted into the inside of the case (100).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the case (100) may have a first mount portion having a first mount groove (1121) and a first mount protrusion (1221), which is a space in which the first connector (300) is mounted. The first mount portion may define a position in the case (100) at which the first connector (300) is mounted.

[0112] The first mount home (1121) may be positioned on the bottom surface of the upper case (110). The first mount home (1121) may be formed in a shape extending from the joint home (112). The first mount home (1121) may be provided as a portion of the joint home (112) where the first connector (300) is seated.

[0113] The first mount protrusion (1221) may be positioned on the upper surface of the lower case (120). The first mount protrusion (1221) may be formed in a shape extending from the base protrusion (122). The first mount protrusion (1221) may be provided as a portion of the base protrusion (122) where the first connector (300) is mounted.

[0114] When the first connector (300) is mounted on the case (100), the first connector protrusion (3111) of the first housing (310) can be inserted into the first mount groove (1121) of the upper case (110). At this time, the first fitting piece (113) from the outside of the upper case (110) can be inserted into the first insert groove (3112) formed on the upper surface of the first housing (310).

[0115] Accordingly, at the surface where the first housing (310) and the upper case (110) come into contact, the first connector protrusion (3111) and the first mount groove (1121) are fastened, and the first insert groove (3112) and the first fitting piece (113) are fastened, so that a double fastening force can be formed.

[0116] When the first connector (300) is mounted on the case (100), the first mount protrusion (1221) of the lower case (120) can be inserted into the first connector groove (3121) of the first housing (310).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the lower housing (312) may further include a third insert groove (3122). The third insert groove (3122) is formed by recessing a portion of the outer surface of the lower housing (311) and may be assembled by contacting the lower case (120). At this time, the third fitting piece (123) may be inserted into the third insert groove (3122) formed on the bottom surface of the first housing (310) from the outer side of the lower case (120).

[0118] Accordingly, at the surface where the first housing (310) and the lower case (110) come into contact, the first connector groove (3121) and the first mount protrusion (1221) are fastened, and the third insert groove (3122) and the third fitting piece (123) are fastened, so that a double fastening force can be formed.

[0119] In an optional embodiment, the lower case (120) may further include a support block (125). The support block (125) is positioned adjacent to the first mount protrusion (1221) and may support the first housing (310) inserted into the case (100).

[0120] When the first connector (300) is mounted on the case (100), the first housing (310) can be connected to the circuit board (200) by the first terminal (320).

[0121] The first housing (310) can be connected to the circuit board (200) by the first terminal (320). The first housing (310) is assembled with the first terminal (320), and the first terminal (320) is assembled to the circuit board (200), thereby forming a fastening force.

[0122] A support pin (3113) and a pin insert groove (3123) may be provided on the inside of the first housing (310). By assembling the support pin (3113) and the pin insert groove (3123), a fastening force between the upper and lower portions of the first housing (310) may be formed. The support pin (3113) may penetrate the second step portion (3212) of the first terminal tab, and the end of the support pin (3113) may be received in the pin insert groove (3123), thereby enabling fastening.

[0123] On the outside of the first housing (310), a connecting tube (322) and a fixing member (323) that connect the first step portion (3211) and the circuit board (200) may be provided. The fixing member (323) may be inserted into the connecting tube (322) while penetrating the first step portion (3211) of the first terminal tab (321), and an end of the fixing member (323) may be fastened to the first connection hole (230). At this time, the alignment protrusion (115) of the upper case (110) is installed on the outside of the end of the fixing member (323), so that the fixing member (323) can stably fix the circuit board (200) when fixing it, and the contact area can be expanded to secure structural stability.

[0124] That is, the first terminal (320) is fixed to the first housing (310) by fastening the support pin (3113) and the pin insert groove (3123), and the first terminal (320) can be fixed to the circuit board (200) by fastening the fixing member (323) and the first connection hole (230). Accordingly, the first housing (310) and the circuit board (200) are each coupled to the first terminal (320), so that fastening force can be formed.

[0125] Fig. 7 is a drawing illustrating the second connector (400) of Fig. 1.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 7, the second connector (400) may include a second housing (410), a second terminal (420), and an O-ring (430).

[0127] The second housing (410) forms the exterior of the second connector (400) and may have a space inside. The second housing (410) may accommodate a second terminal (420) inside. The second housing (410) may correspond to the shape of the mounting portion of the second connector (400) in the case (100).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the second housing (410) may have a second housing body (4100), an insertion portion (4101), and a socket portion (4102).

[0129] The insertion portion (4101) may be provided to be inserted into the case (100). The insertion portion (4101) may be formed to extend from the second housing body (4100) toward the inside of the case (100). The insertion portion (4101) may be inserted into the inside of the case (100).

[0130] The socket portion (4102) may be configured to be connected to an external cable (not shown). The socket portion (4102) may be formed to extend from the second housing body (4100) toward the outside of the case (100). An AC output cable may be connected to the socket portion (4102).

[0131] As an optional embodiment, plug hooks (4103) may be positioned on both sides of the socket portion (4102). When a plug is inserted into the socket portion (4102), the plug hooks (4103) contact both sides of the plug to assist in connection with the socket portion (4102) and stably fix the position of the plug.

[0132] A second connector protrusion (4111) may be formed on the upper surface of the second housing (410), and a fourth connector groove (4121) may be formed on the lower surface.

[0133] The second connector protrusion (4111) may be formed by protruding a portion from the upper surface of the second housing (410). The second connector protrusion (4111) may be assembled by coming into contact with the upper case (110).

[0134] The fourth connector home (4121) may be formed by recessing a portion of the bottom surface of the second housing (410). The fourth connector home (4121) may be assembled by coming into contact with the lower case (120).

[0135] The second insert groove (4112) is positioned at the connection portion between the second housing body (4100) and the socket portion (4102), and may be formed in a groove shape that is sunken in the upper direction. The second insert groove (4112) may be assembled with the second fitting piece (114) described above in FIG. 2.

[0136] The second terminal (420) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (200). The second terminal (420) may be formed of a conductive material and may be configured to receive power from the circuit board (200). Specifically, the second terminal (420) outputs AC power and may transmit it to an external power system.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the second terminal (420) may be provided in a shape that crosses the interior of the second housing (410). One side of the second terminal (420) may be installed inside the second housing (410), and the other side may be connected to the circuit board (200).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the second terminal (420) may be provided with a second terminal body (421) and a second terminal tab (422).

[0139] The second terminal body (421) may be provided as a member formed by processing a conductive metal plate, such as by punching or bending. The second terminal body (421) may be provided in a tubular shape extending from the socket portion (4102) to the insertion portion (4101). The second terminal body (421) may be connected to the second terminal tab (422) within the insertion portion (4101).

[0140] The terminal tab (422) may be provided as a member formed by processing a conductive metal plate, such as punching or bending. The second terminal tab (422) may extend from the inside to the outside of the insertion portion (4101). The second terminal tab (422) may be interposed between the second terminal body (421) and the circuit board (200). One end of the second terminal tab (422) may be connected to the second terminal body (421), and the other end may be connected to the circuit board (200).

[0141] The second terminal body (421) can be electrically connected to the circuit board (200) via the second terminal tab (422).

[0142] An O-ring (430) can be fitted into the socket portion (4102). When a cable plug is inserted into the socket portion (4102), the O-ring (430) can ensure that the plug is inserted to a preset position in the socket portion (4102) and stably fix the position of the plug.

[0143] Fig. 8 is a drawing for explaining the assembly of the second connector (400) and the case (100), and Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the micro inverter viewed in the BB' direction of Fig. 8.

[0144] Specifically, FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the inside of the case (100) when the second connector (400) is mounted on the case (100). At this time, the upper case (110) is omitted to explain the connection between the second connector (400) and the circuit board (200).

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, when the second connector (400) is mounted on the case (100), a portion of the second housing (410) can be inserted into the inside of the case (100).

[0146] Specifically, the second connector (400) can be assembled by positioning the insertion portion (4101) to be inserted into the interior of the case (100) so that the second housing body (4100) is interposed between the upper case (110) and the lower case (120).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the case (100) may have a second mount portion having a second mount groove (1122) and a second mount protrusion (1222) as a space in which the second connector (400) is mounted. The second mount portion may define a position in the case (100) at which the second connector (400) is mounted.

[0148] The second mount home (1122) may be positioned on the bottom surface of the upper case (110). The second mount home (1122) may be formed in a shape extending from the joint home (112). The second mount home (1122) may be provided as a portion of the joint home (112) where the second connector (400) is seated.

[0149] The second mount protrusion (1222) may be positioned on the upper surface of the lower case (120). The second mount protrusion (1222) may be formed in a shape extending from the base protrusion (122). The second mount protrusion (1222) may be provided as a portion of the base protrusion (122) where the second connector (400) is mounted.

[0150] When the second connector (400) is mounted on the case (100), the second connector protrusion (4111) of the second housing (410) can be inserted into the second mount groove (1122) of the upper case (110).

[0151] At this time, the second insertion piece (114) from the outside of the upper case (110) can be inserted into the second insert groove (4112) formed on the upper surface of the second housing (410).

[0152] Accordingly, at the surface where the second housing (410) and the upper case (110) come into contact, the second connector protrusion (4111) and the second mount groove (1122) are fastened, and the second insert groove (4112) and the second fitting piece (114) are fastened, so that a double fastening force can be formed.

[0153] When the second connector (400) is mounted on the case (100), the second mount protrusion (1222) of the lower case (120) can be inserted into the second connector groove (4121) of the second housing (410).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second housing (410) may further include a fourth insert groove (4122). The fourth insert groove (4122) may be formed by recessing the connecting portion of the second housing body (4100) and the socket portion (4102) in a downward direction.

[0155] At this time, the fourth insertion piece (124) from the outside of the lower case (120) can be inserted into the fourth insert groove (4122) formed on the bottom surface of the second housing (410).

[0156] Accordingly, at the surface where the second housing (410) and the lower case (110) come into contact, the fourth connector groove (4121) and the second mount protrusion (1222) are fastened, and the fourth insert groove (4122) and the fourth fitting piece (124) are fastened, so that a double fastening force can be formed.

[0157] In an optional embodiment, the lower case (120) may further include a support block (125). The support block (125) is positioned adjacent to the second mount protrusion (1222) and may support the second housing (410) inserted into the case (100).

[0158] When the second connector (400) is mounted on the case (100), the second housing (410) can be connected to the circuit board (200) by the second terminal (420).

[0159] Inside the second housing (410), a second terminal body (421) is arranged, and a second terminal tab (422) can be connected thereto. The second terminal body (421) and the second terminal tab (422) have a structure that can be assembled with each other, or can be connected by pressing their contacting surfaces.

[0160] The second terminal tab (422) can extend from the inside to the outside of the second housing (410). On the outside of the second housing (410), the second terminal tab (422) can be connected to the second connection hole (240). The end of the second terminal tab (422) can be inserted into the second connection hole (240). At this time, the connection portion of the second terminal tab (422) and the second connection hole (240) can be connected using an adhesive method such as soldering (wave soldering).

[0161] In summary of the above, the micro inverter (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention simplifies the internal structure of the device by separately connecting the first connector (300) and the second connector (400) to the circuit board (200), thereby improving the degree of freedom in inverter structural design and being advantageous for miniaturization of the device.

[0162] In addition, the micro inverter (10) directly connects the first connector (300) and the second connector (400) to the circuit board (200) and forms a sturdy assembly structure, so that power conversion performance can be stably operated.

[0163] While the present invention has been described with reference to one embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, this is merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention should be determined solely by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A case having an internal space; A circuit board placed inside the above case; A first connector supported on the case and having a first terminal directly connected to one side of the circuit board; and A micro inverter comprising a second connector, the second connector being supported spaced apart from the first connector in the case and having a second terminal directly connected to the other side of the circuit board.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first terminal First terminal tab connected to this cable; A connecting tube disposed between the other end of the first terminal tab and the circuit board; and A micro inverter comprising a fixing member penetrating the connecting tube and connecting the first terminal tab and the circuit board.

3. In paragraph 2, The above first connector A guide piece supporting both sides of the first terminal tab; a support pin penetrating the first terminal tab; and A micro inverter having a pin insert groove supporting one side of the first terminal tab and receiving the support pin.

4. In paragraph 1, The above case is The first connector is mounted thereon, and has a first mount portion having a first mount home and a first mount protrusion; The above first connector A micro inverter comprising: a first housing having a first connector protrusion inserted into the first mount groove, and a first connector groove into which the first mount protrusion is inserted; 5. In paragraph 4, The above first housing A micro inverter further comprising a first insert groove into which a first fitting piece of the case is inserted.

6. In paragraph 1, The above second terminal is A micro inverter comprising a second terminal tab, the end of which is inserted into a connection hole of the circuit board.

7. In paragraph 1, The above case is The second connector is mounted thereon and has a second mount portion having a second mount home and a second mount protrusion, The above second connector A micro inverter comprising: a second housing having a second connector protrusion inserted into the second mount groove, and a second connector groove into which the second mount protrusion is inserted; 8. In paragraph 7, The above second housing A micro inverter further comprising a second insert groove into which a second fitting piece of the above case is inserted.

9. In paragraph 1, The above case is A micro inverter comprising a support block protruding on the inside and supporting the first connector and the second connector.

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