Connector for electrical energy / mechanical energy converter

Abstract

According to the present invention, a connector for an electrical energy / mechanical energy converter is to be used in an electrical energy / mechanical energy converter 1 that includes: a stator core 20 that has a plurality of protruding teeth; and a plurality of conductors 100 that are provided in spaces between the teeth, are longer than the thickness of the stator core 20, and protrude from both sides of the stator core 20. The connector is ring-shaped as seen in plan view and connects two of the conductors 100.

Description

Connectors for electrical energy mechanical energy converters

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter suitable for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy or mechanical energy into electrical energy.

[0002] Converters that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy or mechanical energy into electrical energy include rotating electrical machines that function as electric motors or generators, linear motors, etc. In these converters, it is important to suppress temperature rise.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 7385971 discloses an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter in which a stator coil is formed by placing conductive tubes in the spaces (slots) between the teeth of a stator core, and temperature rise is suppressed by flowing a heat transfer medium through the conductive tubes.

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned electrical energy mechanical energy converter, the thickness of the connector for connecting the conductive tube tends to be large.

[0005] The present invention has been made in light of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a connector for an electric energy mechanical energy converter that is suitable for an electric energy mechanical energy converter with high cooling performance and high output, that allows for the electric energy mechanical energy converter to be made compact, and that is easy to mass-produce.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by the following means. For ease of understanding, the reference numerals corresponding to the embodiments of the present invention are written in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to these. Furthermore, the configurations described with reference numerals may be appropriately replaced or improved.

[0007] One aspect is a connector for an electrical energy mechanical energy converter used in an electrical energy mechanical energy converter (1) having a stator core (20) with a plurality of protruding teeth, and a plurality of conductors (100) arranged in the spaces between the teeth and protruding on both sides of the stator core (20) longer than the thickness of the stator core (20), the connector for an electrical energy mechanical energy converter having a ring shape in a planar view and connecting two conductors (100).

[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a stator of an electrical energy mechanical energy converter. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flat conductor with flow channels. FIG. 3 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a rotating electric machine. FIG. 4 is a view illustrating an embodiment of a connector. FIG. 5A is an assembly view of the rotating electric machine illustrated in FIG. 3 as viewed obliquely from the left, and FIG. 5B is an assembly view of the rotating electric machine illustrated in FIG. 3 as viewed obliquely from the right. FIG. 6 is an assembly view of the rotating electric machine illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 7 is a development view of a model of the rotating electric machine illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the flow of heat medium in the development view of the model illustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the flow of electricity from the U-phase wire to the V-phase wire in the development view of the model illustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a second embodiment of a connector as a single component. FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a third embodiment of a connector as a single component. FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a fourth embodiment of a connector as a single component. FIG. 13A is a view illustrating another usage of the fourth embodiment of the connector as viewed obliquely from the left, and FIG. 13B is a view illustrating a usage of the fourth embodiment of the connector as viewed obliquely from the right. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another form of the fourth embodiment of the connector. FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating another method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector as viewed from a diagonal left angle, and FIG. 16B is a diagram illustrating a diagram as viewed from a diagonal right angle. FIG. 17A is a diagram illustrating another method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector as viewed from a diagonal left angle, and FIG. 17B is a diagram illustrating a diagram as viewed from a diagonal right angle. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a sixth embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method of using the sixth embodiment of the connector. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pipe-type conductor (conductive tube). FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a seventh embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an eighth embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a ninth embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a tenth embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method of using the tenth embodiment of the connector. FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an eleventh embodiment of the connector as a single component. FIG. 28 is a single-item view showing a twelfth embodiment of the connector.

[0009] The embodiments of the present invention, the advantages of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a stator of an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter.

[0011] First, to facilitate understanding of the present invention, an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter using the electrical energy-mechanical energy converter connector of the present invention will be described. Note that hereinafter, the "electrical energy-mechanical energy converter connector" will be referred to simply as the "connector" as appropriate. Furthermore, in the following description, unless otherwise specified, a rotating electric machine that functions as an electric motor or a generator will be used as the electrical energy-mechanical energy converter.

[0012] Fig. 1 shows a stator core of a rotating electric machine (electrical energy to mechanical energy converter) using the present invention. Although Fig. 1 shows a stator core used in an inner rotor type rotating electric machine, this is just one example. The gist of the present invention may also be applied to an outer rotor type rotating electric machine.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, stator core 20 is cylindrical and has a structure in which a plurality of teeth 2001, 2002, 2003, ... are protruding from the inner peripheral wall of a base portion. In Fig. 1, 192 teeth are protruding. Stator core 20 is formed by laminating thin electromagnetic steel sheets.

[0014] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a flat conductor with flow channels. Fig. 2 shows an example of a flat conductor with flow channels 100. Note that hereinafter, the "flat conductor with flow channels" will be referred to simply as a "conductor" as appropriate.

[0015] The conductor 100 shown in FIG. 2 is a plate-shaped conductor with a groove 101 formed along its central axis, and its cross section has an angular U-shape. The conductor 100 is conductive and allows a heat transfer medium to flow through the groove 101. The groove 101 serves as a flow path for the heat transfer medium. The conductor 100 is rigid enough that it will not bend even if both ends are grasped and a light force is applied to bend it. The surface of the conductor 100 is insulated with an insulating varnish or the like. Such a conductor 100 is easy to manufacture and can be formed, for example, by pressing a general flat bar. Alternatively, the conductor 100 may be formed by extrusion molding, etching, cutting, bending, or the like. Furthermore, the conductor 100 may be formed by casting or forging. Note that the shape of the conductor 100 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2. As described below, for example, multiple grooves 101 may be formed.

[0016] The conductor 100 is disposed in the space (slot) between the teeth of the stator core 20. Since the conductor 100 is longer than the thickness of the stator core 20, when the conductor 100 is disposed in the slot of the stator core 20, it protrudes on both sides of the stator core 20.

[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing an example of a rotating electric machine.

[0018] In addition, in FIG. 1, an example is shown in which 192 teeth are protruded from the stator core 20, but this structure is very complicated. Therefore, in the following, for ease of understanding, a simplified structure will be described. However, these are not mere models. Of course, these also work.

[0019] The rotating electric machine 1 shown in Fig. 3 has a structure in which 12 teeth are protruded from the stator core 20, and 12 conductors are arranged in the spaces (slots) between the teeth. The rotor 50 is a four-pole type, and the rotating electric machine in Fig. 3 is a 12N4P type.

[0020] The stator core 20 is formed by laminating thin electromagnetic steel sheets. The stator core 20 has 12 teeth protruding from the inner peripheral wall of the base portion. 12 conductors 111, 112, ... are arranged in the spaces (slots) between the teeth. Because the conductors are longer than the thickness of the stator core 20, they protrude on both sides of the stator core 20 when arranged in the slots of the stator core 20. After the conductors 111, 112, ... are arranged, a thin coating material is applied to the inner periphery of the stator core 20. A heat transfer medium flows through the grooves of the conductors 111, 112, .... Because a thin coating material is applied to the inner periphery of the stator core 20, the heat transfer medium flowing through the grooves of the conductors 111, 112, ... does not leak to the inner periphery of the stator core 20.

[0021] Furthermore, heat medium flow members 310 and 320 are arranged on both sides of the stator core 20 .

[0022] The heat medium flow member 310 includes a main body 311 and an annular portion 312. The main body 311 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum). A flow path through which the heat medium flows is formed in the main body 311. The flow path is divided into two sections by a pair of partitions 3100. A first heat medium flow pipe 331 for supplying or discharging the heat medium is connected to one section (first heat medium flow section 3101). A second heat medium flow pipe 332 for supplying or discharging the heat medium is connected to the other section (second heat medium flow section 3102). The annular portion 312 is made of, for example, resin and is insulating. A hole is formed in the annular portion 312, and one end of an electrical conductor is inserted into the hole. The electrical energy-mechanical energy converter connectors 211, 221, etc. are connected to the electrical conductors, allowing electrical current to flow between specific electrical conductors. The connectors 211, 221, ... are formed in a flattened ring shape and include two parallel sections (upper and lower sections) separated by a distance approximately equal to the width of the conductor, a left section connecting the left ends of the upper and lower sections, and a right section connecting the right ends of the upper and lower sections. The shape of these connectors for electrical energy mechanical energy converters 211, 221, ... is the gist of the present invention.

[0023] The main body 311 is fixed to the annular portion 312 in a liquid-tight manner so that the heat medium flowing through the flow path of the main body 311 does not leak to the outside. Note that the annular portion 312 is not an essential component. If the main body 311 is fixed to the stator core 20 in a liquid-tight manner, the annular portion 312 may be omitted.

[0024] The heat medium flow member 320 includes a main body 321 and an annular portion 322. The main body 321 is made of metal (e.g., aluminum). A flow path for the heat medium is formed in the main body 321. The annular portion 322 is made of, for example, resin and is insulating. Holes are formed in the annular portion 322, into which the other ends of the conductors are inserted. Connectors 2121, 2221, ... are connected to the conductors, enabling electrical conduction between specific conductors. The connectors 2121, 2221, ... are formed into a flattened annular shape and include two parallel portions (upper and lower portions) separated by a distance approximately equal to the width of the conductors, a left portion connecting the left ends of the upper and lower portions, and a right portion connecting the right ends of the upper and lower portions. This shape of the connectors 2121, 2221, ... for electrical energy-mechanical energy converters is the gist of the present invention.

[0025] The main body 321 is fixed to the annular portion 322 in a liquid-tight manner so that the heat medium flowing through the flow path of the main body 321 does not leak to the outside. Note that the annular portion 322 is not an essential component. If the main body 321 is fixed to the stator core 20 in a liquid-tight manner, the annular portion 322 may be omitted.

[0026] A U-phase wire 11 is connected to one of the U-phase conductors among the twelve conductors. A V-phase wire 12 is connected to one of the V-phase conductors among the twelve conductors. A W-phase wire 13 is connected to one of the W-phase conductors among the twelve conductors.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a single-item view showing one embodiment of a connector.

[0028] The connectors will now be described with reference to the individual component drawings. Connectors 211, 221, 231, 2121, 2122, 2221, 2222, 2321, and 2322 shown in Figure 3 each have parallel upper and lower sections connected by radially extending left and right sections. The upper and lower sections are arc-shaped. The left and right sections are linear and have a constant width.

[0029] However, this shape is merely an example. As shown in Figure 4, the upper and lower portions 21, 22 of the connector 2 may be polygonal and substantially arc-shaped. In particular, as long as the inner peripheries of the upper and lower portions 21, 22 are parallel, the connector can cover the conductors protruding from the stator core 20 even if the upper and lower portions 21, 22 are spaced apart by a distance equal to the width of the conductors. Furthermore, the left and right portions 23, 24 may have different widths at the base end and the tip end.

[0030] 5A and 5B are assembly views of the rotating electrical machine shown in Fig. 3. However, main body 311 and main body 321 are removed. Fig. 5A is a view seen from an oblique left side, and Fig. 5B is a view seen from an oblique right side.

[0031] 5A and 5B , twelve conductors 111, 112, ... are arranged in spaces (slots) between the teeth of the stator core 20. An annular portion 312 of the heat medium flow member 310 and an annular portion 322 of the heat medium flow member 320 are arranged on both sides of the stator core 20. The twelve conductors 111, 112, ... protrude from the annular portion 312 and the annular portion 322.

[0032] Then, connectors 211, 221, ... are placed over these protruding portions, and the left and right side edges of the connectors 211, 221, ... are brought into contact with the back side (the side where no groove is formed) of the conductors 111, 112, ..., and are connected by laser welding or the like, thereby enabling electricity to flow between specific conductors.

[0033] Fig. 6 is an assembly diagram of the rotating electric machine shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 6 shows a state in which the main body 311 and the main body 321 are also attached. Fig. 6 shows that one heat medium flow member 310 is provided with a first heat medium flow pipe 331 and a second heat medium flow pipe 332. It can also be seen that a U-phase wire 11, a V-phase wire 12, and a W-phase wire 13 protrude from the heat medium flow member 310.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a development view of a model of the rotating electrical machine shown in FIG.

[0035] A plurality of teeth are protruded from the inner peripheral wall of the base portion of the stator core 20. In Fig. 7, from the left, there are first teeth 2001, second teeth 2002, third teeth 2003, fourth teeth 2004, fifth teeth 2005, sixth teeth 2006, seventh teeth 2007, eighth teeth 2008, ninth teeth 2009, tenth teeth 2010, eleventh teeth 2011, and twelfth teeth 2012.

[0036] Conductors are arranged in the spaces (slots) between each tooth. U-phase first conductor 111 is arranged in the space (slot) between first tooth 2001 and second tooth 2002. V-phase fourth conductor 124 is arranged in the space (slot) between second tooth 2002 and third tooth 2003. W-phase third conductor 133 is arranged in the space (slot) between third tooth 2003 and fourth tooth 2004. U-phase second conductor 112 is arranged in the space (slot) between fourth tooth 2004 and fifth tooth 2005. V-phase first conductor 121 is arranged in the space (slot) between fifth tooth 2005 and sixth tooth 2006. W-phase fourth conductor 134 is arranged in the space (slot) between sixth tooth 2006 and seventh tooth 2007. A U-phase third conductor 113 is arranged in a space (slot) between the seventh tooth 2007 and the eighth tooth 2008. A V-phase second conductor 122 is arranged in a space (slot) between the eighth tooth 2008 and the ninth tooth 2009. A W-phase first conductor 131 is arranged in a space (slot) between the ninth tooth 2009 and the tenth tooth 2010. A U-phase fourth conductor 114 is arranged in a space (slot) between the tenth tooth 2010 and the eleventh tooth 2011. A V-phase third conductor 123 is arranged in a space (slot) between the eleventh tooth 2011 and the twelfth tooth 2012. A W-phase second conductor 132 is arranged in a space (slot) between the twelfth tooth 2012 and the first tooth 2001.

[0037] One heat medium flow member 310 is disposed above (on one end side of) the stator core 20. The interior of the one heat medium flow member 310 is divided into two sections by a pair of partitions 3100. A first heat medium flow pipe 331 for supplying or discharging the heat medium is connected to one section (first heat medium flow section 3101). A second heat medium flow pipe 332 for supplying or discharging the heat medium is connected to the other section (second heat medium flow section 3102).

[0038] Twelve holes are formed in the bottom surface of one of the heat medium flow members 310. Six holes are formed in the first heat medium flow section 3101. The remaining six holes are formed in the second heat medium flow section 3102.

[0039] One ends of the U-phase first conductor 111, the V-phase fourth conductor 124, the W-phase third conductor 133, the U-phase second conductor 112, the V-phase first conductor 121, and the W-phase fourth conductor 134 are inserted into the holes formed in the first heat medium flow section 3101.

[0040] One ends of the U-phase third conductor 113, the V-phase second conductor 122, the W-phase first conductor 131, the U-phase fourth conductor 114, the V-phase third conductor 123, and the W-phase second conductor 132 are inserted into the holes formed in the second heat medium flow section 3102.

[0041] The other heat medium flow member 320 is disposed below (on the other end side of) the stator core 20. Twelve holes are formed in the bottom surface of the other heat medium flow member 320. The other ends of the U-phase first conductor 111, the V-phase fourth conductor 124, the W-phase third conductor 133, the U-phase second conductor 112, the V-phase first conductor 121, the W-phase fourth conductor 134, the U-phase third conductor 113, the V-phase second conductor 122, the W-phase first conductor 131, the U-phase fourth conductor 114, the V-phase third conductor 123, and the W-phase second conductor 132 are inserted into these holes.

[0042] The U-phase wire 11 is connected to one end of the U-phase first conductor 111. The U-phase wire 11 is a flat conductor. A U-phase other-end first connector 2121 is connected to the other end of the U-phase first conductor 111 and the other end of the U-phase second conductor 112, thereby electrically connecting the U-phase first conductor 111 and the U-phase second conductor 112.

[0043] A U-phase one-end connector 211 is connected to one end of the U-phase second conductor 112 and one end of the U-phase third conductor 113, and the U-phase second conductor 112 and the U-phase third conductor 113 are electrically connected.

[0044] The other end of the U-phase third conductor 113 and the other end of the U-phase fourth conductor 114 are connected to a U-phase other end second connector 2122, and the U-phase third conductor 113 and the U-phase fourth conductor 114 are electrically connected.

[0045] The V-phase wire 12 is connected to one end of the V-phase first conductor 121. The V-phase wire 12 is a flat conductor. A V-phase other-end first connector 2221 is connected to the other end of the V-phase first conductor 121 and the other end of the V-phase second conductor 122, thereby electrically connecting the V-phase first conductor 121 and the V-phase second conductor 122.

[0046] A V-phase one-end connector 221 is connected to one end of the V-phase second conductor 122 and one end of the V-phase third conductor 123, and the V-phase second conductor 122 and the V-phase third conductor 123 are electrically connected.

[0047] A V-phase other end second connector 2222 is connected to the other end of the V-phase third conductor 123 and the other end of the V-phase fourth conductor 124, and the V-phase third conductor 123 and the V-phase fourth conductor 124 are electrically connected.

[0048] The W-phase wire 13 is connected to one end of the W-phase first conductor 131. The W-phase wire 13 is a flat conductor. A W-phase other-end first connector 2321 is connected to the other end of the W-phase first conductor 131 and the other end of the W-phase second conductor 132, thereby electrically connecting the W-phase first conductor 131 and the W-phase second conductor 132.

[0049] A W-phase one-end connector 231 is connected to one end of the W-phase second conductor 132 and one end of the W-phase third conductor 133, and the W-phase second conductor 132 and the W-phase third conductor 133 are electrically connected.

[0050] A W-phase other end second connector 2322 is connected to the other end side of the W-phase third conductor 133 and the other end side of the W-phase fourth conductor 134, and the W-phase third conductor 133 and the W-phase fourth conductor 134 are electrically connected.

[0051] A neutral wire connector 240 is connected to one end of the U-phase fourth conductor 114, one end of the V-phase fourth conductor 124, and one end of the W-phase fourth conductor 134, thereby electrically conducting the U-phase fourth conductor 114, the V-phase fourth conductor 124, and the W-phase fourth conductor 134.

[0052] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining the flow of the heat medium in the model development diagram shown in Fig. 7. The arrows indicate the direction of the heat medium flow.

[0053] The heat medium supplied from the first heat medium flow pipe 331 flows from the first heat medium flow section 3101 of one heat medium flow member 310 through the grooves of any one of the U-phase first conductor 111, the V-phase fourth conductor 124, the W-phase third conductor 133, the U-phase second conductor 112, the V-phase first conductor 121, and the W-phase fourth conductor 134 to the other heat medium flow member 320. The heat medium then flows through the grooves of any one of the U-phase third conductor 113, the V-phase second conductor 122, the W-phase first conductor 131, the U-phase fourth conductor 114, the V-phase third conductor 123, and the W-phase second conductor 132 to the second heat medium flow section 3102 of one heat medium flow member 310 and is discharged from the second heat medium flow pipe 332. Here, the heat medium is described as being supplied from the first heat medium flow pipe 331 and discharged from the second heat medium flow pipe 332, but it may also be supplied from the second heat medium flow pipe 332 and discharged from the first heat medium flow pipe 331.

[0054] Next, the flow of electricity will be described. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the flow of electricity from the U-phase wire to the V-phase wire in the model development diagram shown in Figure 7. The arrows indicate the direction of the flow of electricity.

[0055] Here, a description will be given of the case where electricity flows from U-phase wire 11 to V-phase wire 12. The electricity that enters from U-phase wire 11 flows in the following order: U-phase wire 11 → U-phase first conductor 111 → U-phase other end first connector 2121 → U-phase second conductor 112 → U-phase one end connector 211 → U-phase third conductor 113 → U-phase other end second connector 2122 → U-phase fourth conductor 114 → neutral wire connector 240 → V-phase fourth conductor 124 → V-phase other end second connector 2222 → V-phase third conductor 123 → V-phase one end connector 221 → V-phase second conductor 122 → V-phase other end first connector 2221 → V-phase first conductor 121 → V-phase wire 12.

[0056] Similarly, electricity flows from V phase wire 12 to W phase wire 13, and from W phase wire 13 to U phase wire 11, but detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] 7, 8, and 9, to avoid cluttering the drawings, connectors (U-phase one-end connector 211, V-phase one-end connector 221, U-phase other-end first connector 2121, U-phase other-end second connector 2122, V-phase other-end first connector 2221, V-phase other-end second connector 2222, neutral connector 240, etc.) are depicted with a single line. However, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B, an actual connector has a flattened annular shape in which parallel upper and lower portions are connected by radially extending left and right portions. For example, when electricity flows from U-phase first conductor 111 to U-phase second conductor 112, the electricity flowing through U-phase first conductor 111 is divided into two portions, the upper portion and the lower portion, flows through U-phase other-end first connector 2121, and then flows to U-phase second conductor 112.

[0058] Electrical resistance decreases as the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductor increases, and increases as the length of the conductor increases. When the connector is placed only on the outside of the conductive tube, as in Japanese Patent No. 7385971, in order to ensure a certain cross-sectional area without increasing the electrical resistance of the connector, it is necessary to make the connector wider, as shown in Figure 3 of Japanese Patent No. 7385971. This would increase the diameter of the motor. Alternatively, the cross-sectional area can be ensured by increasing the height of the connector, but this would increase the length of the motor.

[0059] In contrast, in this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connector 2 is ensured by configuring it with parallel upper and lower portions 21 and 22. With this configuration, the lower portion 22 is positioned inside the motor, which makes it possible to prevent the diameter and length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0060] Furthermore, the upper and lower parts 21 and 22 of the connector 2 are parallel and spaced apart by a distance approximately equal to the width of the conductor, so that by covering the conductor protruding from the stator core 20 with the connector, the relative position of the connector to the conductor can be easily determined, making it suitable for mass production.

[0061] 4, if the inner peripheries of the upper portion 21 and the lower portion 22 of the connector 2 are formed so as to be parallel, it is possible to fit the connector 2 over the conductor 100 protruding from the stator core 20 even if the upper portion 21 and the lower portion 22 are spaced apart by a distance equal to the width of the conductor 100. Positioning of the connector 2 is also easy.

[0062] Furthermore, the left and right portions 23, 24 of the connector 2 come into contact with the back side of the conductor 100 (the side without the groove), which increases the grounding length and makes laser welding easier. This also contributes to the superior mass productivity.

[0063] Second Embodiment FIG. 10 is a view showing a second embodiment of the connector.

[0064] The connector 2 of the second embodiment has a basic shape substantially the same as the connector shown in FIG. 4 , but portions of both sides of the left portion 23 and the right portion 24 are cut out. That is, a portion of the outer side of the left portion 23 is cut out to form an outer side 2301. The length of the outer side 2301 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100. A portion of the inner side of the left portion 23 is cut out to form an inner side 2302. The length of the inner side 2302 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100. A portion of the outer side of the right portion 24 is cut out to form an outer side 2401. The length of the outer side 2401 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100. A portion of the inner side of the right portion 23 is cut out to form an inner side 2402. The length of the inner side 2402 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100.

[0065] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0066] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, when the connector 2 is assembled to a rotating electric machine, the cutout portions (outer and inner edges) on both sides of the left and right portions 23, 24 fit into the conductor 100, making positioning easier and improving mass productivity.

[0067] Furthermore, the connector 2 has portions cut out on both sides of the left portion 23 and the right portion 24. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, since the connector is connected to the back side (the side without the groove) of the conductors 111, 112, ..., for example, the left portion 23 may have an outer side 2301 without an inner side 2302, and the right portion 24 may have an inner side 2402 without an outer side 2401. Conversely, the left portion 23 may have an inner side 2302 without an outer side 2301, and the right portion 24 may have an outer side 2401 without an inner side 2402. However, by forming cutout portions (outer and inner sides) on both sides of the left portion 23 and the right portion 24 as in this embodiment, the connector can be assembled to a rotating electric machine without worrying about the front and back of the connector, which also contributes to excellent mass productivity.

[0068] Third Embodiment FIG. 11 is a view showing a third embodiment of the connector.

[0069] The connector 2 of the third embodiment has a basic shape that is substantially the same as the connector shown in Figure 4, but portions of the outer edges of both the left portion 23 and the right portion 24 are cut out. That is, a portion of the outer edge of the left portion 23 is cut out to form an outer edge 2301. The length of the outer edge 2301 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100. No particular cutout is made on the inner edge 2302 of the left portion 23. A portion of the outer edge of the right portion 24 is cut out to form an outer edge 2401. The length of the outer edge 2401 is substantially equal to the width of the conductor 100. No particular cutout is made on the inner edge 2402 of the right portion 24.

[0070] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, when the connector 2 is assembled to the rotating electric machine, the outer edge 2301 of the left portion 23 or the outer edge 2401 of the right portion 24 fits into the conductor 100, making positioning easier and improving mass productivity.

[0072] Furthermore, the connector 2 has portions cut out on the outer edges of both the left portion 23 and the right portion 24. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the connector is connected to the back side (the side where no grooves are formed) of the conductors 111, 112, ..., so it is also possible to cut out a portion on the outer edge of one of the left portion 23 and the right portion 24. However, by forming cutout portions (outer and inner edges) on the outer edges of both the left portion 23 and the right portion 24 as in this embodiment, it becomes possible to assemble the connector to a rotating electric machine without worrying about the front and back of the connector, which also contributes to excellent mass productivity in this respect.

[0073] (Fourth embodiment) Figure 12 is a single-item drawing showing a fourth embodiment of the connector. The connector 2 of the fourth embodiment has substantially the same basic shape as the connector shown in Figure 4, but is slightly longer. Furthermore, rectangular holes are formed in the left and right portions 23, 24. That is, a rectangular hole 230 is formed in the left portion 23. The size of the rectangular hole 230 is, for example, substantially equal to the cross-sectional size of the conductor 100. A rectangular hole 240 is formed in the right portion 24. The size of the rectangular hole 240 is, for example, substantially equal to the cross-sectional size of the conductor 100.

[0074] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, when the connector is assembled to the rotating electric machine, the rectangular hole 230 in the left portion 23 and the rectangular hole 240 in the right portion 24 fit into the conductor 100, making positioning easier and improving mass productivity.

[0076] 13A and 13B are views showing another method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector, where FIG. 13A is a view seen from an oblique left side and FIG. 13B is a view seen from an oblique right side.

[0077] As shown in Figures 13A and 13B, when the conductor 100 is a wide type having a plurality of grooves 101 formed therein, an intermediate plate 1000 may be connected to the upper end of the conductor 100, and the rectangular hole 230 of the left portion 23 and the rectangular hole 240 of the right portion 24 may be fitted into this intermediate plate 1000.

[0078] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating how to use the fourth embodiment of the connector. As shown in Figure 14, the connectors 2 are stacked one on top of the other when used. The conductors 100 shown in Figures 13A and 13B are of the same size. An intermediate plate 1000 with a length corresponding to the distance from the conductor 100 to the connector 2 is used. This allows the connector 2 to be used in an optimal manner.

[0079] 15 is a diagram illustrating another form of the connector according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the connector 2 may be formed of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board).

[0080] 16A and 16B are views showing another method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector, where FIG. 16A is a view seen from an oblique left side and FIG. 16B is a view seen from an oblique right side.

[0081] As shown in Figures 16A and 16B, when the conductor 100 is a wide type having a plurality of grooves 101 formed therein, an intermediate plate 1000 may be connected to the side of the tip of the conductor 100, and the rectangular hole 230 of the left portion 23 and the rectangular hole 240 of the right portion 24 may be fitted into this intermediate plate 1000.

[0082] 17A and 17B are views showing another method of using the fourth embodiment of the connector, where FIG. 17A is a view seen from an oblique left side and FIG. 17B is a view seen from an oblique right side.

[0083] As shown in Figures 17A and 17B, if the conductor 100 is a bent type that is curved near the tip, the rectangular hole 230 in the left portion 23 and the rectangular hole 240 in the right portion 24 may be fitted to the tip of this bent type conductor 100.

[0084] Fifth Embodiment Fig. 18 is a single-item diagram showing a fifth embodiment of a connector. All of the connectors described above have been flat-plate-based types. However, this is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Fig. 18, a rod-shaped annular type may be used, in which parallel rod-shaped upper and lower portions 21 and 22 are connected by radially extending rod-shaped left and right portions 23 and 24. In Fig. 18, a rectangular hole 230 is formed in the left portion 23, and a rectangular hole 240 is formed in the right portion 24. However, the connector may not have a rectangular hole as shown in Fig. 4, or may have a portion of the left portion 23 or right portion 24 cut out, as shown in Figs. 10 and 11.

[0085] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0086] Sixth Embodiment Fig. 19 is a single-item view showing a sixth embodiment of a connector. In the fourth embodiment of Fig. 12 and the fifth embodiment of Fig. 18, rectangular holes are formed penetrating the left and right portions of the connector. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. As shown in Fig. 19, a rectangular groove 230 may be formed in the left portion 23 and a rectangular groove 240 may be formed in the right portion 24.

[0087] 20 is a diagram showing an example of how to use the connector according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, the tip of the conductor 100 is fitted into the square groove 230 of the left portion 23 and the square groove 240 of the right portion 24.

[0088] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0089] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0090] 19 is a type in which a square groove 230 is formed in the left portion 23 and a square groove 240 is formed in the right portion 24. However, a flat type without the square groove 230 and the square groove 240 may also be used. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 20, the connector 2 may be placed on the tip of the conductor 100.

[0091] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0092] Seventh Embodiment Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a pipe-type conductor (conductive pipe). The conductor is not limited to the flat type shown in Fig. 2. As described in Japanese Patent No. 7385971, a pipe-type conductor (conductive pipe) as shown in Fig. 21 may also be used. In this type, the heat transfer medium flows inside the pipe.

[0093] Fig. 22 is a single-item view showing a seventh embodiment of the connector. In the fourth embodiment of Fig. 12, rectangular holes are formed penetrating the left and right portions of the connector. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. As shown in Fig. 22, a circular hole 230 may be formed in the left portion 23 and a circular hole 240 may be formed in the right portion 24.

[0094] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0095] Furthermore, when the conductor 100 is a pipe-type conductive tube, the tip of the conductive tube 100 can be fitted into the circular hole 230 in the left part 23 and the circular hole 240 in the right part 24, thereby facilitating positioning and improving mass productivity.

[0096] Furthermore, instead of the intermediate plate 1000 shown in Figures 13A and 13B, an intermediate member having a plate-shaped base end and a rod-shaped tip can be used, and the tip of this intermediate member can be fitted into the circular hole 230 of the left part 23 and the circular hole 240 of the right part 24, making positioning easier and improving mass productivity.

[0097] Eighth Embodiment Fig. 23 is a single-item view showing an eighth embodiment of the connector 2. As shown in Fig. 23, the connector 2 may be of a type in which a circular groove 230 is formed in the left portion 23 and a circular groove 240 is formed in the right portion 24.

[0098] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0099] Furthermore, instead of the intermediate plate 1000 shown in Figures 13A and 13B, an intermediate member having a plate-shaped base end and a rod-shaped tip can be used, and the tip of this intermediate member can be fitted into the circular groove 230 of the left portion 23 and the circular groove 240 of the right portion 24, thereby making positioning easier and improving mass productivity.

[0100] 23 is a type in which a circular groove 230 is formed in the left portion 23 and a circular groove 240 is formed in the right portion 24. However, a flat type without circular grooves 230 and 240 may also be used. Furthermore, instead of intermediate plate 1000 shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, an intermediate member having a plate-shaped base end and a rod-shaped tip end may be used, and connector 2 may be placed on the tip end of this intermediate member.

[0101] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0102] Ninth Embodiment Figure 24 is a single-item diagram showing a ninth embodiment of a connector. All of the connectors described above are formed by connecting parallel upper and lower portions with radially extending left and right portions. However, this shape is merely an example. As shown in Figure 24, the connector 2 may be elliptical and annular. A rectangular hole 230 is formed near the left end and a rectangular hole 240 is formed near the right end. This type of connector can be used in the same way as the connector of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 12. While ensuring a certain cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, the lower portion 22 is positioned inside the motor, preventing the motor from becoming larger in diameter or length.

[0103] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0104] Tenth Embodiment Fig. 25 is a single-item view showing a tenth embodiment of the connector. In the ninth embodiment of Fig. 24, rectangular holes are formed penetrating near the left and right ends of the connector. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. As shown in Fig. 25, a rectangular groove 230 may be formed near the left end and a rectangular groove 240 may be formed near the right end.

[0105] Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of how to use the connector according to the tenth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 26, the tip of the conductor 100 is fitted into the square groove 230 near the left end and the square groove 240 near the right end.

[0106] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0107] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0108] The connector 2 shown in Figure 25 is a type in which a square groove 230 is formed near the left end and a square groove 240 is formed near the right end. However, a flat type without the square grooves 230 and 240 may also be used. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 26, the connector 2 may be placed on the tip of the conductor 100.

[0109] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0110] Eleventh Embodiment Fig. 27 is a single-item view showing an eleventh embodiment of a connector. In the tenth embodiment of Fig. 25, square grooves are formed near the left and right ends of the connector. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. As shown in Fig. 27, a type in which a circular groove 230 is formed near the left end and a circular groove 240 is formed near the right end may also be used.

[0111] Then, instead of the intermediate plate 1000 shown in Figures 13A and 13B, an intermediate member having a plate-shaped base end and a rod-shaped tip end is used, and the tip end of this intermediate member is fitted into the circular groove 230 near the left end and the circular groove 240 near the right end.

[0112] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0113] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0114] Twelfth Embodiment Fig. 28 is a single-item view showing a twelfth embodiment of a connector. In the eleventh embodiment of Fig. 27, circular grooves are formed near the left and right ends of the connector. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. As shown in Fig. 28, a type in which a circular hole 230 is formed through the left end and a circular hole 240 is formed through the right end may also be formed.

[0115] When the conductor 100 is a pipe-type conductive tube, the tip of the conductive tube 100 is fitted into the circular hole 230 near the left end and the circular hole 240 near the right end.

[0116] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0117] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0118] Also, instead of the intermediate plate 1000 shown in Figures 13A and 13B, an intermediate member having a plate-shaped base end and a rod-shaped tip end is used, and the tip end of this intermediate member is fitted into the circular hole 230 near the left end and the circular hole 240 near the right end.

[0119] Even with a connector 2 having such a configuration, it is possible to position the lower part 22 inside the motor while ensuring a certain degree of cross-sectional area so as not to increase the electrical resistance of the connector, thereby preventing the diameter or length of the motor from becoming too large.

[0120] Furthermore, positioning becomes easier, which is advantageous for mass production.

[0121] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the above embodiments merely illustrate some of the application examples of the present invention, and it is not intended that the technical scope of the present invention be limited to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0122] For example, in the above embodiment, the stator core is cylindrical, has a plurality of teeth protruding from the inner peripheral wall of the base portion, and has a structure in which conductors are disposed in spaces (slots) between the teeth.

[0123] However, the stator core may be flat rather than cylindrical. The stator core may have a structure in which multiple teeth are protruded from the bottom surface, which serves as the base, and conductors are disposed in the spaces (slots) between the teeth. In this way, the present invention can be applied to a linear motor.

[0124] In addition, the above description has been given with reference to examples of conductors, such as flat conductors with flow channels and pipe-type conductors (conductive pipes). That is, the description has been given with reference to conductors through which a heat transfer medium flows. However, the conductors are not limited to these types. They may be simply flat conductors without flow channels or solid rod-shaped conductors. Air-cooled conductors of this type may also be used.

[0125] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the conductors 100 used are of the same size, and the intermediate plate 1000 has a length corresponding to the distance from the conductors 100 to the connector 2. However, the length of the conductors 100 may also be set to a length corresponding to the distance to the connector 2.

[0126] Furthermore, the type of rotating electric machine is not limited. For example, the present invention can be applied to axial flux type rotating electric machines, outer rotor type rotating electric machines, SR rotating electric machines, induction rotating electric machines, synchronous rotating electric machines, etc. For example, by using liquid nitrogen or liquid helium as the heat transfer medium, a superconducting rotating electric machine can be created.

[0127] There are various winding methods for motors, including concentrated winding, distributed winding, single-layer winding, two-layer winding, full-pitch winding, short-pitch winding, lap winding, concentric winding, and wave winding, and these are selected appropriately by combining each method during design.

[0128] The number of turns of the coil is not important.

[0129] It is also possible to manufacture a type in which the stator slot teeth are closed.

[0130] Furthermore, cooling from the outside of the stator core can also be performed as appropriate.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter is configured such that two parallel arc-shaped or annular portions are connected by a linear portion extending in the radial direction. However, these shapes are merely examples, and the shape of the connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter is not limited. For example, the connector may be annular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or the like.

[0132] Furthermore, as the material for the connector for the electrical energy mechanical energy converter, round wire, rectangular wire, hollow wire, polygonal wire, Litz wire, etc., may be used. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, copper, aluminum, clad materials, superconducting materials, and other conductive materials.

[0133] Examples of manufacturing methods include punching, laser processing, water jet processing, casting, 3D printing, printed circuit boards, etching, electric discharge processing, bending (bending a wire), extrusion, and drawing, but other methods may also be used.

[0134] Examples of connection methods include soldering, brazing, laser welding, ultrasonic bonding, silver paste, and conductive adhesives, but other methods may also be used for connection.

[0135] The above embodiments can be combined as appropriate.

[0136] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-109145, filed with the Japan Patent Office on July 5, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A connector for an electric energy-mechanical energy converter used in an electric energy-mechanical energy converter having a stator core with a plurality of protruding teeth, and a plurality of conductors arranged in the spaces between the teeth and protruding on both sides of the stator core for a length greater than the thickness of the stator core, the connector having a ring shape in a plan view and connecting two conductors.

2. The connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter according to claim 1, which has a flattened annular shape in a plan view and connects two conductors.

3. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 2, wherein the flattened annular shape is formed to include an upper portion, a lower portion parallel to the upper portion, a left portion near the left ends of the upper and lower portions, and a right portion near the right ends of the upper and lower portions.

4. A connector for an electrical energy mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 3, which is provided with positioning parts near the left and right ends to determine the position relative to the conductors, with one conductor being connected to one positioning part and another conductor being connected to the other positioning part.

5. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter as set forth in claim 4, wherein the one positioning portion is a side edge of the left portion, and the other positioning portion is a side edge of the right portion.

6. A connector for an electric energy-mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 4, wherein one of the positioning portions is a side edge formed by cutting out a part of the left side portion, and the other of the positioning portions is a side edge formed by cutting out a part of the right side portion.

7. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 4, wherein one of the positioning portions is a hole formed near the left end, and the other of the positioning portions is a hole formed near the right end.

8. A connector for an electric energy-mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 4, wherein one of the positioning portions is a groove formed on the top surface near the left end, and the other of the positioning portions is a groove formed on the top surface near the right end.

9. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter according to claim 2, wherein the flattened annular shape is formed by an elliptical member.

10. A connector for an electrical energy mechanical energy converter as claimed in claim 9, which is provided with positioning parts near the left and right ends to determine the position relative to the conductors, with one conductor being connected to one positioning part and another conductor being connected to the other positioning part.

11. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter as described in claim 10, wherein one of the positioning portions is a hole formed near the left end, and the other of the positioning portions is a hole formed near the right end.

12. A connector for an electrical energy-mechanical energy converter as described in claim 10, wherein one of the positioning portions is a groove formed on the top surface near the left end, and the other of the positioning portions is a groove formed on the top surface near the right end.

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