Electric power supply device for an electric machine of an electrically operable drive train of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric power supply device (1) for an electric machine (2) of an electrically operable drive train (3) of a motor vehicle (4), comprising an inverter assembly (5) having a first busbar pair (6) and an EMC filter assembly (7) having a second busbar pair (8), wherein the busbar pairs (6, 8) have a connection region (9) in which a busbar (20, 21) of the first busbar pair (6) is in each case electrically conductively connected to a busbar (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8) via an electric contacting means (10), wherein the electric contacting means (10) each comprise an insulation sleeve (11), each of which is formed of a cylindrical-ring-shaped current-conducting element (13) accommodated in an electrically insulating cylinder shell (12), and each of which is arranged between one of the busbars (20, 21) of the first busbar pair (6) and one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8) in such a way that in each case one of the current-conducting elements (13) is electrically conductively connected to one of the busbars (20, 21) of the first busbar pair (6) and to one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8), and a fastening means (14) passes through the current-conducting element (13), by means of which fastening means in each case one of the busbars (20, 21) of the first busbar pair (6) and one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8) are braced against one another in the longitudinal extent (15) of the insulation sleeve (11).

Description

[0001] Electrical power supply device for an electrical machine of an electrically operable drive train of a motor vehicle

[0002] The present invention relates to an electrical power supply device for an electrical machine of an electrically operable drive train of a motor vehicle, comprising an inverter assembly with a first pair of busbars and an EMC filter assembly with a second pair of busbars, wherein the busbar pairs have a connection region in which a busbar of the first pair of busbars is electrically conductively connected to a busbar of the second pair of busbars via an electrical contacting means.

[0003] Electric motors are increasingly being used to power motor vehicles, creating alternatives to combustion engines that require fossil fuels. Considerable efforts have already been made to improve the everyday suitability of electric drives and also to provide users with the same level of driving comfort they are accustomed to.

[0004] Such axial flux and radial flux electric machines are typically powered by a power electronics module, also known as an inverter. There is a continuing need to make the inverter and the electric machine as compact as possible and to design them with particularly advantageous manufacturing and assembly features.

[0005] If several electronic devices are arranged in close spatial proximity to one another, as is the case, for example, in an electric axle drive train of a motor vehicle, it is necessary to protect the respective electronic devices against the electromagnetic radiation of the other electronic devices, since the electromagnetic radiation can disrupt the respective electronic functions of the components, which is usually undesirable.

[0006] Therefore, so-called EMC filters are typically installed upstream of the inverter, which smooths the electrical current from an external source, such as a vehicle battery, and then transmits it to the inverter module. Due to space and manufacturability reasons, the EMC filter and inverter are usually two separate components. For reasons of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), these two components are often positioned separately and shielded from each other in or on the electrical machine or drive train. Accordingly, the busbars at the output of the EMC filter must be connected to those at the input of the inverter.

[0007] It is therefore the object of the invention to provide an electrical power supply device for an electrical machine of an electrically operable drive train of a motor vehicle, which enables a safe and EMC-optimized electrical contact between the EMF filter assembly and the inverter assembly.

[0008] This object is achieved by an electrical power supply device for an electrical machine of an electrically operable drive train of a motor vehicle, comprising an inverter assembly with a first busbar pair and an EMC filter assembly with a second busbar pair, wherein the busbar pairs have a connection area in which a busbar of the first busbar pair is electrically conductively connected to a busbar of the second busbar pair via an electrical contacting means, wherein the electrical contacting means each comprise an insulating sleeve, each of which is formed from a cylindrical ring-shaped current conducting element received in an electrically insulating cylindrical shell and which is each arranged between one of the busbars of the first busbar pair and one of the busbars of the second busbar pair in such a way thatthat one of the current-conducting elements is in electrically conductive contact with one of the busbars of the first busbar pair and with one of the busbars of the second busbar pair, and that the current-conducting element is penetrated by a fastening means, by means of which one of the busbars of the first busbar pair and one of the busbars of the second busbar pair are clamped towards one another in the longitudinal extension of the insulating sleeve. A significant advantage of the electrical power supply device according to the invention lies in the introduction of insulating sleeves, which are formed from an electrically insulating cylindrical ring and a current-conducting element accommodated therein, for connecting the busbar pairs of the inverter and EMC filter assembly. This offers the advantage of enabling high electromagnetic compatibility through effective insulation.while maintaining a stable electrical connection between the assemblies. By bracing the busbars with the fasteners along the length of the insulation sleeves, a high mechanical strength of the connection is achieved, ensuring permanent and reliable contact even under vibrations and other mechanical stresses common in automotive operation. Furthermore, the insulation sleeves facilitate assembly and reduce susceptibility to failure by reducing electromagnetic interference.

[0009] Depending on the geometric design of the positional relationship between the EMC filter assembly and the inverter assembly, the electrical power transmission paths between these assemblies are ensured by adequately routed busbars. The insulation sleeve is designed to counteract and efficiently compensate for any spatial divergence between the busbar connection points. This prevents the busbars from directly contacting the electrical components, which can simplify the geometric and structural design of the busbars.

[0010] For the purposes of this patent application, an inverter assembly in the context of motor vehicle electric drive systems serves to convert direct current into alternating current to power an electric machine. The inverter assembly is thus a part of the electric drive train that enables control of motor power and speed through precise control of the phase currents. The inverter assembly preferably consists of power electronics modules containing high-performance semiconductors such as IGBTs (insulated-gate bipolar transistors) or MOSFETs (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors). The inverter assembly can also include control circuits that drive the semiconductor elements. These circuits then generate the necessary control signals to generate the alternating current at the desired frequency and phase.In addition, the inverter assembly may be equipped with a series of protection circuits that monitor overloads, short circuits, and other faulty conditions and protect the assembly and connected components from damage.

[0011] Advantageously, the inverter assembly also includes an interface to the vehicle management system, which regulates power based on driver input and other vehicle parameters. This integration enables dynamic adaptation to driving conditions such as acceleration, load changes, and cruise control.

[0012] In the design, the inverter assembly can be housed in an inverter enclosure to ensure electrical safety and minimize electromagnetic interference. The enclosure also protects the electronic components from environmental influences such as moisture, dust, and temperature variations.

[0013] The inverter housing can preferably be formed from a metallic material, particularly preferably from aluminum, gray cast iron or cast steel, in particular by means of a primary forming process such as casting or die casting. The inverter housing particularly preferably has a pot-like spatial shape. In this context, it is particularly preferable for the housing cover to be insertable into the pot-like inverter housing. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the housing cover to rest on the pot-like inverter housing and cover its opening. The inverter housing can also be a component of the motor housing of the electrical machine or vice versa. This means that the inverter housing is formed entirely or partially in one piece, in particular monolithically, with the motor housing of the electrical machine.The power electronics accommodated in the inverter housing can be provided in particular for an electric machine of an electrically operated drive train of a motor vehicle. The power electronics is preferably a combination of various components that control or regulate a current to the electric machine of the axle drive train, preferably including the peripheral components required for this purpose, such as cooling elements or power supplies. In particular, the power electronics contains one or more power electronics components that are configured to control or regulate a current. Particularly preferably, the power electronics has more than two, particularly preferably three, separate phases or current paths, each with at least one dedicated power electronics component.The power electronics are preferably designed to control or regulate a power with a peak power, preferably continuous power, of at least 10 W, preferably at least 100 W, particularly preferably at least 1000 W per phase.

[0014] For the purposes of this patent application, an EMC filter assembly is a component within the electrical power supply system that is designed to filter and minimize electromagnetic interference and ensure electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) between various electronic systems and components in the vehicle.

[0015] The EMC filter assembly preferably advantageously consists of an array of filter elements such as inductors, capacitors, and resistors that interact to attenuate interference on the power supply and signal lines. These components are configured to attenuate unwanted high-frequency signal components, thus ensuring the integrity of the vehicle's electrical and electronic systems. The filter design can, for example, be based on the use of LC (inductance-capacitance) circuits, which are advantageously designed to comply with industry-specific EMC standards and requirements. The EMC filter assembly can further include specialized components that provide protection against transient overvoltage events, such as varistors or surge arresters.Ferrite cores or shielded housings can also be used to further reduce electromagnetic emissions.

[0016] Advantageously, the EMC filter assembly is integrated into the overall design of the electrical machine in such a way that it is easily accessible and maintainable. This facilitates necessary replacement work on the filter elements if they need to be replaced due to their limited service life or damage. The EMC filter assembly is preferably housed in a robust housing designed to provide effective shielding against stray electromagnetic fields. This housing can also ensure physical separation from other assemblies to minimize mutual interference.

[0017] Within electric vehicles, the voltages applied to the EMC filter assembly can range from 200 volts to 1,000 volts, depending on the specific vehicle design and power level, particularly in high-voltage drive systems. The current that can flow through the EMC filter assembly depends on the capacity of the electric drive and energy storage system. These currents range from a few tens of amperes for auxiliary drives and smaller vehicles to several hundred amperes for high-performance vehicles and vehicles with large battery capacities, particularly during peak load situations such as fast charging or acceleration. For example, for a typical electric vehicle with a nominal battery voltage of around 400 volts, in a high-current scenario, such as fast charging or maximum acceleration, currents in the range of 100 amperes to several hundred amperes could flow.For a vehicle with a high-voltage battery, such as 800 volts, the currents may be somewhat lower at similar power levels, as lower current is required for the same power at higher voltages. An important consideration is that the EMC filter assembly must be designed to safely handle these current and voltage values ​​without compromising the electromagnetic compatibility of the system. For the purposes of this patent application, an insulation sleeve is a component specifically designed to electrically connect two electrical conductors while simultaneously ensuring electrical insulation from their surroundings. The insulation sleeve is used for the electrical insulation and mechanical fixation of busbars or other electrical contacts within the power supply system of a motor vehicle.

[0018] The insulation sleeve preferably consists of a cylindrical ring-shaped current-conducting element designed to be suitable for use in high-voltage applications due to its electrical conductivity properties. The current-conducting element primarily serves to enable an electrical connection between two busbars while simultaneously providing defined mechanical support for the encased current-conducting element. The current-conducting element is preferably made of a metal material with high electrical conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, to ensure minimal increase in resistance in the connection and enable effective current transfer between the busbars. This current-conducting element is housed in a cylindrical shell made of an electrically insulating material, thus enabling the electrical insulation of the insulation sleeve from the environment.

[0019] The insulation sleeve is further complemented by fastening means, which can be formed by screws, bolts, or other suitable mechanical fasteners. These fastening means preferably penetrate the current-conducting element in such a way that the busbars are clamped toward each other and secured in their relative position.

[0020] Advantageously, the inside of the cylindrical shell is designed to provide a secure fit for the associated current-conducting element. The cylindrical shell can have structural features such as recesses or elevations that correspond with the current-conducting element to create a positive connection. This can simplify assembly and ensure reliable positioning throughout the entire service life of the connection. Furthermore, the cylindrical shell can have additional features on its outside that serve to connect to other components of the power supply device, such as threads for screw connections, grooves for snap or slide connections, or flanges for screw or welded connections. These features contribute to simplified and secure assembly of the cylindrical shell and enable robust integration into the surrounding mechanical structural components.

[0021] For the purposes of this patent application, the electrically insulating cylindrical shell is a component that is inserted within the insulating sleeve for the purpose of electrical insulation. It is designed in such a way that it prevents or at least limits the electrical conductivity of the insulating sleeve at its outer surface, thus preventing the flow of electrical current between these components.

[0022] The cylinder shell is preferably made of an electrically insulating material, such as a high-performance plastic or a ceramic material, which, due to its properties, is able to withstand the opposing electrical voltages and ensure reliable insulation over long periods of time, even under difficult operating conditions, such as high temperatures, humidity or mechanical stress.

[0023] The current-conducting element can also be designed to incorporate positive-locking features for connection to the cylindrical shell, such as radial projections, notches, or grooves that interact with corresponding structures on the cylindrical shell, thus enabling secure and non-slip installation. Furthermore, the current-conducting element can also perform additional functions, such as thermal insulation or flame-retardant properties, to further increase the safety of the power supply device and ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations and standards.

[0024] In the context of this invention, a fastening means is an element that serves to securely and permanently fix the components of the power supply device, in particular the busbars and insulating sleeves, in their relative position to one another. The fastening means contributes to ensuring a mechanically stable and electrically conductive connection between the relevant components and protecting them from external influences or internal stresses.

[0025] The fastener is preferably made of a material that offers high strength and resistance to mechanical stress, corrosion, and temperature fluctuations, such as stainless steel or another durable metal. It can be a screw, bolt, rivet, or other mechanical fastener specifically designed for use in vehicle electrical power systems.

[0026] The fastener may have a head that bears against the busbar when tightened, thus establishing a secure electrical contact. The fastener may also have a mating element, such as a nut or washer, which is placed on the opposite side of the connecting element and serves to compress the components together and ensure a tight fit.

[0027] For the purposes of this patent application, a busbar is an electrical conduction component used to transmit electrical current between various components of an electrical power supply system, such as the inverter assembly and the EMC filter assembly within a motor vehicle's electric drivetrain. The busbar is designed to safely and reliably conduct the currents required for motor operation.

[0028] The busbar is preferably made of a conductive metal with high electrical conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, which enables current transmission with minimal resistive losses. The geometric shape of the busbar is designed to meet the specific requirements of electrical current flow, heat dissipation, and mechanical stress that occur during operation of the electric drive. Particularly preferably, the busbars have a substantially rectangular conductor cross-section. Advantageously, the surface of the busbar is treated or coated to ensure corrosion resistance and maintain electrical conductivity over a long period of time. Common finishing processes may include tinning or the application of silver or nickel layers, which have both protective and conductivity-enhancing properties.

[0029] The design of the busbar also preferably takes into account the requirements for simple and secure installation by precisely defining the contact areas for connection to other components, such as the insulation sleeves. This can be achieved through special shaping or by adding mounting holes and slots to ensure a firm and permanent mechanical connection.

[0030] For the purposes of this patent application, a partition is a structural component within a power supply system that serves to physically separate the EMC filter assembly and the inverter assembly for the purpose of minimizing mutual electromagnetic interference. Suitable materials from which the partition is made can be, for example, metals or special EMC shielding composites. Advantageously, the partition has openings or feedthroughs for the insulation sleeves, which make it possible to establish a necessary spatial connection between the assemblies without undermining the EMC protection function. These feedthroughs are designed to ensure precise alignment and sealing of the elements passing through, in particular the insulation sleeves, to ensure continuity of the shielding effect.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the busbar pairs run essentially parallel to one another in the connection area. This leads to optimized space utilization in the installation space of the drive train and promotes simplified, error-minimized assembly. In this context, it is further preferred that the busbar pairs are essentially identical in the connection area, which simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces production costs. A standardized design of the components also simplifies warehousing and logistics and contributes to the reduction of errors during assembly, since assembly workers do not have to pay attention to different component variants. The interchangeability of these parts further reduces maintenance costs and improves the supply of spare parts.

[0032] It is also advantageous that all busbars in the connection area are essentially identical in shape, which enables a high level of compatibility and interchangeability of the connection components.

[0033] According to a further preferred development of the invention, it can also be provided that the fastening means run essentially parallel to one another with respect to their longitudinal extent, which contributes to ensuring a uniform distribution of force during assembly and clamping of the contact points.

[0034] Furthermore, according to a similarly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the insulation sleeves can be designed essentially identically. The homogeneous design of the insulation sleeves represents a further advantage for manufacturing and standardization. A uniform component design not only ensures lower manufacturing costs through economies of scale, but also simplifies logistics and warehousing. Furthermore, the use of identical components accelerates assembly and reduces sources of error.

[0035] It can be provided that the cylindrical shell and the current-conducting element are positively connected to one another. According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is also advantageous if the cylindrical shell has at least one radially inwardly projecting form-locking means on its inner circumferential surface, which engages with a radially inward-facing form-locking means correspondingly formed on the outer circumferential surface of the current-conducting element, or the cylindrical shell has at least one radially outwardly projecting form-locking means on its inner circumferential surface, which engages with a radially outwardly projecting form-locking means correspondingly formed on the outer circumferential surface of the current-conducting element. The configuration of the cylindrical shells with form-locking means that engage with corresponding form-locking means of the current-conducting element enables a precise and robust mechanical connection of the two components.Such a connection helps minimize manufacturing tolerances and ensures long-lasting, resistant insulation against mechanical stress. The adaptation of the form-locking elements also contributes to accelerated assembly and a reduction in assembly errors.

[0036] It is also conceivable, in principle, for the cylindrical shell and the current-conducting element to be connected by means of a force-locking connection. Press connections are particularly preferred in this context.

[0037] Furthermore, it would be possible to connect the cylindrical shell and the current-conducting element with a positive connection. Adhesive or welded joints can be used for this. Furthermore, it is possible for the current-conducting element to be encapsulated in a plastic, for example, using an injection molding process.

[0038] According to another particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the insulating sleeves can extend through a housing component of the inverter assembly and / or a housing component of the EMC filter assembly, which enables stable mechanical anchoring and precise positioning of the insulating sleeves. This design can also contribute to improved sealing and protection against environmental influences, and supports the EMC properties through a clear spatial separation of electromagnetic field sources.

[0039] The housing component of the EMC filter assembly and the housing component of the inverter assembly are formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with a partition wall being formed between the EMC filter assembly and the inverter assembly, and the insulating sleeves extending through the partition wall. This partition wall can be part of a housing component of the EMC filter assembly and / or a housing component of the inverter assembly. The partition wall is present in particular when the housing components are formed monolithically, at least in sections, and the partition wall then forms the structural interface between the housing components.

[0040] Furthermore, the invention can also be further developed such that the fastening means each engage one of the cylindrical ring-shaped current-conducting elements with a certain amount of play. This provides the advantage of accommodating tolerances in the event of thermal expansion or other physical influences, thereby reducing the mechanical stress on the current-conducting elements. Furthermore, positional and positioning tolerances can also be compensated for.

[0041] In a likewise preferred embodiment of the invention, it can also be provided that the outer diameter of the cylindrical shell corresponds to between 0.8 and 1.2 times the width of the busbars in the connection area, whereby a balanced compromise between mechanical stability, electrical conductivity and insulation characteristics can be achieved.

[0042] It is further advantageous if the wall thickness of the cylindrical shell and the wall thickness of the cylindrical ring-shaped current conducting element have a ratio of 1:3-1:10, which also contributes to a balanced compromise between mechanical stability, electrical conductivity and insulation characteristics.

[0043] It is further preferred that the current-conducting element be made of copper. The use of copper for the production of the current-conducting element creates technical advantages with regard to electrical conductivity and thermal properties, since copper has outstanding electrical conductivity and good thermal conductivity. This leads to improved energy transfer and can contribute to cooling the conductors, particularly in high-performance applications such as in the automotive sector. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be advantageous if the cylindrical shell is molded from an electrically insulating plastic, which offers the technical advantage of good electrical insulation and cost-effective manufacturability.

[0044] It may also be advantageous to further develop the invention in such a way that each fastening means is designed as a screw with a screw head resting on one of the busbars, which can provide an easy-to-use and robust connection method. The use of screws allows the contacts to be precisely adjusted and easily released if necessary, which has a positive effect on assembly and maintenance costs.

[0045] In this context, it can also be advantageous for a nut to be located at the end of the screw opposite the screw head, engaging the screw, and for the nut to rest on one of the busbars. This can prevent the connection from loosening under vibration, which is particularly important during vehicle operation. It can also be advantageous for the nuts to be fixed in a housing component of the inverter assembly, enabling a stable and reliable screw connection. Furthermore, the fixed position of the nuts increases assembly precision and reduces the risk of components being lost during installation or maintenance.

[0046] According to a further preferred embodiment of the subject matter of the invention, it can be provided that the insulating sleeves are each accommodated in a plastic carrier, which is fixed to a housing component of the inverter assembly or a housing component of the EMC filter assembly or the partition wall. The integration of the plastic carrier into the housing components enables a spatially defined arrangement and creates better conditions for EMC protective measures by physically separating electromagnetic fields. For the purposes of this patent application, a plastic carrier is a component made of a polymer material and used to structure, position, and attach other components within a power supply device. Its central task is, in particular, to accommodate and support components such as insulating sleeves and to ensure their exact position within the overall system.The plastic carrier is preferably made of an insulating plastic material. Advantageously, the plastic carrier is designed to precisely accommodate and secure the insulation sleeves, ensuring a secure and permanent fit. The shape of the plastic carrier can be tailored to the geometric requirements of the insulation sleeves. The plastic carrier can also be provided with attachment points that enable easy installation on the inverter assembly, the EMC filter assembly, the partition wall, or other areas of the electrical power supply device. These attachment points can be designed as snap-in, locking, or screw connections to facilitate tool-free assembly or to provide a secure bolted connection.The plastic carrier preferably incorporates design features that promote easy and error-free assembly, such as guide grooves, positioning tabs, or color coding. The selection of design features aims to shorten assembly time, reduce assembly errors, and facilitate maintenance or replacement of components.

[0047] In this context, it may also be advantageous if the plastic supports of the insulation sleeves are formed integrally, in particular monolithically. This offers the advantage of reduced assembly effort due to the absence of secondary connection or assembly steps. A one-piece design can also reduce manufacturing costs and improve the structural integrity of the plastic supports. It is further preferred that the plastic supports be formed from an electrically non-conductive plastic, which helps ensure electrical insulation and provides additional protection against unintended current paths. This eliminates a potential risk of electromagnetic interference, which is important for EMC-critical applications.It is therefore highly preferred if the outer surface of the cylinder shells is covered at least in sections, preferably completely, by the plastic carrier, which contributes to the mechanical protection of the cylinder shells and improves the electrical insulation.

[0048] It would also be conceivable that one of the plastic supports or the plastic supports are formed in one piece, in particular monolithically, with the cylindrical shell.

[0049] Finally, the invention can also be advantageously implemented such that the plastic supports are fixed to a housing component of the inverter assembly or a housing component of the EMC filter assembly or the partition wall by means of a positive-locking connection. This connection represents a permanent and vibration-resistant solution that also enables quick and error-free assembly, for example, through easily identifiable and snap-in connecting elements. In this context, it is further preferred that the positive-locking connection has snap hooks, thereby enabling tool-free assembly that can be carried out quickly, safely, and without special knowledge or skills. This reduces assembly costs and shortens assembly times. Furthermore, snap hooks offer additional security against the connection becoming loose when used in the presence of vibrations and movements, as is common in vehicles.

[0050] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to figures without limiting the general inventive concept.

[0051] It shows:

[0052] Figure 1 shows an electrical machine with a power supply device in a perspective view,

[0053] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the connection area between the EMC filter assembly and the inverter assembly of the power supply device in a perspective sectional view, Figure 3 shows an insulation sleeve in a perspective external view and a perspective longitudinal sectional view,

[0054] Figure 4 shows a detailed view of the connection area between the EMC filter assembly and the inverter assembly of the power supply device with insulation sleeves accommodated in a plastic carrier in a perspective sectional view,

[0055] Figure 5 a plastic carrier in a perspective view,

[0056] Figure 6 shows a plastic support inserted into a partition wall in a perspective sectional view,

[0057] Figure 7 shows a motor vehicle with an electrical power supply device for an electrical machine of an electrically operable drive train in a schematic representation.

[0058] Figure 1 shows an electrical power supply device 1 for an electric machine 2 of an electrically operable drive train 3 of a motor vehicle 4, as also sketched by way of example in Figure 7. In Figure 7, the electric machine 2 and a transmission arrangement 31 form a structural unit, which is also referred to as an electric axle.

[0059] It can be clearly seen that the inverter assembly 5 and the EMC filter assembly 7 are arranged in two different chambers of the motor housing of an electrical machine 2, which are open in the exemplary embodiment shown and allow a view into their interior. The inverter assembly 5 is arranged in the upper housing component 18 in the figure, while the EMC filter assembly 7 is spatially separated from it in the lateral housing component 19. The electrical circuit boards of the assemblies 5, 7 are approximately perpendicular to one another. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the housing components 18, 19 are formed monolithically with the motor housing of the electrical machine 2 and are separated from one another by a common partition wall 24, which can be seen from a comparison of Figure 1 and Figure 2.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the EMC filter assembly 7 is a module that is also used in electrical machines other than the one shown in Figure 1. Accordingly, the geometry of the busbars 22, 23 of the busbar pair 8 of this EMC filter assembly 7 can only be adapted to different installation space situations to a very limited extent. The inverter assembly 5 also originates from a module that is used in electrical machines other than the one shown in Figure 1. Consequently, geometric changes to the busbars 20, 21 of the busbar pair 6 of the inverter assembly 5 cannot be freely implemented here either.

[0061] The power supply device 1 now comprises - as can be clearly seen from Figure 2 - the inverter assembly 5 with the first busbar pair 6 and the EMC filter assembly 7 with the second busbar pair 8, wherein the busbar pairs 6, 8 have a connection area 9 in which a busbar 20, 21 of the first busbar pair 6 is electrically conductively connected to a busbar 22, 23 of the second busbar pair 8 via an electrical contacting means 10.

[0062] The electrical contacting means 10 each comprise an insulating sleeve 11, each formed from a cylindrical ring-shaped current-conducting element 13 accommodated in an electrically insulating cylindrical shell 12, and each arranged between one of the busbars 20, 21 of the first busbar pair 6 and one of the busbars 22, 23 of the second busbar pair 8 such that one of the current-conducting elements 13 rests in an electrically conductive manner on one of the busbars 20, 21 of the first busbar pair 6 and on one of the busbars 22, 23 of the second busbar pair 8. The current-conducting element 13 has a fastening means 14 passing through it, by means of which one of the busbars 20, 21 of the first busbar pair 6 and one of the busbars 22, 23 of the second busbar pair 8 are clamped towards one another in the longitudinal extension 15 of the insulating sleeve 11.The insulating sleeve 11 can overcome the spatial offset of the contact surfaces between the busbar pairs 6,8 of the EMC filter assembly 7 and the inverter assembly 5.

[0063] The busbar pairs 6, 8 run essentially parallel to one another in the connection area 9 and are essentially identical in design. The fastening means 14 also run essentially parallel to one another with respect to their longitudinal extent, with the fastening means 14 each extending through one of the cylindrical ring-shaped current-conducting elements 13 in its opening 29 with a certain amount of play.

[0064] It can also be clearly seen from Figure 2 that the insulating sleeves 11 are essentially identical in design. The current-conducting element 13 is pressed into the cylindrical shell 12, wherein the cylindrical shell 12 has at least one radially inwardly projecting form-locking means on its inner surface, which engages with a correspondingly designed, radially inward-pointing form-locking means on the outer surface of the current-conducting element 13, as can be clearly seen from Figure 3. Alternatively, it would also be possible for the cylindrical shell 12 to have at least one radially outwardly pointing form-locking means on its inner surface, which engages with a correspondingly designed, radially outward-pointing form-locking means on the outer surface of the current-conducting element 13. However, this is not shown in the figures.In the illustrated embodiment, the cylindrical shell 12 is made of an electrically insulating plastic, and the current-conducting element 13 is made of copper. The opening 29 is dimensioned such that the screw 16 has a certain amount of play therein, thus ensuring tolerance compensation between the busbars.

[0065] As already briefly mentioned at the beginning, the housing component 19 of the EMC filter assembly 7 and the housing component 18 of the inverter assembly 5 are formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with a partition 24 being formed between the EMC filter assembly 7 and the inverter assembly 5 and the insulating sleeves 11 extending through the partition 24. The fastening means 14 are each designed as a screw 16 with a screw head 17 resting on one of the busbars 20, 21, 22, 23. At the end of the screw 16 opposite the screw head 17 there is a nut 30 engaging with the screw 16 and the nut 30 rests on one of the busbars 20, 21 so that the screw connection can be locked. The nuts 30 are fixed in a housing component 18 of the inverter assembly 5.

[0066] Figure 4 shows a further alternative embodiment of the invention, in which the insulating sleeves 11 are each received in a plastic carrier 25 which is fixed to the partition wall 24. When an insulating sleeve 11 is inserted, the outer surface of the cylindrical shell 12 is completely covered by the plastic carrier 25. In this embodiment, the plastic carriers 25 of the insulating sleeves 11 are formed monolithically from one plastic, which can be seen particularly well from the detailed illustration in Figure 5. The plastic carriers 25 are formed from an electrically non-conductive plastic. Each of the plastic carriers 25 has a receiving cylinder 26 into which an insulating sleeve 11 can be inserted.The receiving cylinders 26 are spaced apart from one another by the retaining plate 28, wherein the plane of extension of the retaining plate 28 runs substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the receiving cylinders 26. Two snap hooks 27 extend from the retaining plate in the longitudinal direction of the receiving cylinders 26. As can be seen in Figure 6, the snap hooks 27 engage behind the partition 24 and thus secure the retaining plate 28 against unwanted loosening.

[0067] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the figures. The above description is therefore not to be considered restrictive, but rather explanatory. The following claims are to be understood as meaning that a stated feature is present in at least one embodiment of the invention. This does not exclude the presence of further features. Where the claims and the above description define 'first' and 'second' features, this designation serves to distinguish between two similar features without establishing a priority. List of reference symbols

[0068] 1 power supply device

[0069] 2 electric machine

[0070] 3 Drivetrain

[0071] 4 Motor vehicle

[0072] 5 Inverter assembly

[0073] 6 pairs of busbars

[0074] 7 EMC filter assembly

[0075] 8 pairs of busbars

[0076] 9 Connection area

[0077] 10 contact agents

[0078] 11 Insulation sleeve

[0079] 12 cylindrical shell

[0080] 13 Current conducting element

[0081] 14 fasteners

[0082] 15 Longitudinal extension

[0083] 16 Screw

[0084] 17 Screw head

[0085] 18 Housing component

[0086] 19 Housing component

[0087] 20 busbar

[0088] 21 Busbar

[0089] 22 Busbar

[0090] 23 Busbar

[0091] 24 Partition wall

[0092] 25 plastic carriers

[0093] 26 receiving cylinders

[0094] 27 snap hooks

[0095] 28 Holding plate

[0096] 29 Opening

[0097] 30 mother

[0098] 31 Gear arrangement

Claims

Claims 1. An electrical power supply device (1) for an electrical machine (2) of an electrically operable drive train (3) of a motor vehicle (4), comprising an inverter assembly (5) with a first pair of busbars (6) and an EMC filter assembly (7) with a second pair of busbars (8), wherein the busbar pairs (6, 8) have a connection region (9) in which a busbar (20, 21) of the first pair of busbars (6) is electrically conductively connected to a busbar (22, 23) of the second pair of busbars (8) via an electrical contacting means (10), characterized in that the electrical contacting means (10) each comprise an insulating sleeve (11), each of which is formed from a cylindrical ring-shaped current-conducting element (13) received in an electrically insulating cylindrical shell (12) and which is each arranged between one of the busbars (20,21 ) of the first busbar pair (6) and one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8) are arranged such that one of the current-conducting elements (13) is in electrically conductive contact with one of the busbars (20, 21 ) of the first busbar pair (6) and with one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8), and the current-conducting element (13) is penetrated by a fastening means (14), by means of which one of the busbars (20, 21 ) of the first busbar pair (6) and one of the busbars (22, 23) of the second busbar pair (8) are clamped towards one another in the longitudinal extension (15) of the insulating sleeve (11).

2. Power supply device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the busbar pairs (6, 8) run substantially parallel to one another in the connection area (9).

3. Power supply device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fastening means (14) run substantially parallel to one another with respect to their longitudinal extent.

4. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insulating sleeves (11) are substantially identical.

5. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insulating sleeves (11) pass through a housing component (18) of the inverter assembly (5) and / or a housing component (19) of the EMC filter assembly (7).

6. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fastening means (14) each pass through one of the cylindrical ring-shaped current conducting elements (13) with play.

7. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer diameter of the cylindrical shell (12) corresponds to between 0.8 and 1.2 times the width of the busbars (20, 21, 22, 23) in the connection area (9).

8. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fastening means (14) are each designed as a screw (16) with a screw head (17) resting on one of the busbars (20, 21, 22, 23).

9. Power supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insulation sleeves (11) are each accommodated in a plastic carrier (25) which is fixed to a housing component (18) of the inverter assembly (5) or a housing component (19) of the EMC filter assembly (7) or the partition wall (24).

10. Power supply device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the plastic supports (25) are fixed by means of a positive connection to a housing component (18) of the inverter assembly (5) or a housing component (19) of the EMC filter assembly (7) or the partition wall (24).

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