Multi-function electromagnetic shielding structure for an inverter

Abstract

The invention relates to an electromagnetic shielding structure for an inverter, the inverter comprising an electronic component provided with a connection pin and / or with terminals, the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) being characterized in that it comprises a metal electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and at least one plastic insert (14, 15, 16) attached to the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), each insert (14, 15, 16) forming one of the following: a guide member (14), a support member (15), a wall (16).

Description

[0001] Multifunctional electromagnetic shielding structure for inverter

[0002]

[0001] The present invention claims priority from French application 2408362 filed on July 29, 2024, the content of which (text, drawings and claims) is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004]

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of electrical inverter assemblies. It relates in particular to inverters adapted to control the operation of an electric traction machine of an electric or hybrid vehicle, for example a motor vehicle.

[0005]

[0003] More specifically, the invention relates to an electromagnetic shielding structure for an inverter. It also relates to an inverter comprising such an electromagnetic shielding structure. Finally, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing such an electromagnetic shielding structure as well as a method for manufacturing such an inverter.

[0006] STATE OF THE ART

[0007]

[0004] In the field of power electronics, an inverter is a voltage converter that generates alternating voltages and currents from an electrical energy source of a different voltage or frequency. In particular, an inverter can generate the alternating voltages suitable for the operation of a synchronous or asynchronous electric motor from a direct current voltage source, such as an electric battery.

[0008]

[0005] A polyphase inverter, for example three-phase, allows a direct current voltage to be chopped into a balanced polyphase sinusoidal voltage (for example three-phase).

[0009]

[0006] For this purpose, the inverters include power modules comprising electronic switches, for example IGBTs (IGBT meaning Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor), one or more electronic boards (control board and power board or "driver board", possibly combined into a single board) to appropriately control the opening and closing of the electronic switches, and sensors.

[0010]

[0007] The electronic circuit board(s) are formed on printed circuits, commonly called "PCBs" (from the English "Printed Circuit Board"), and include electronic components that can be damaged and / or disrupted by electromagnetic radiation generated by the operating power modules.

[0008] It is therefore known to protect these components from electromagnetic radiation by using electromagnetic shielding, typically consisting of a metal sheet placed between the power modules and the electronic circuit board(s).

[0011]

[0009] It is also known to have an intermediate piece, for example made of plastic, between the power modules and the electromagnetic shielding to ensure one or more of the following functions: to guide the connection pins of the power modules to facilitate their insertion into connectors of the electronic board(s), to support and hold a temperature sensor, and to electrically isolate the terminals of the power modules from each other.

[0012]

[0010] For the manufacture of such an inverter, the power modules are first positioned in the casing, the intermediate piece is then positioned above the power modules and fixed to the casing, then the electromagnetic shielding is positioned above the power modules and fixed to the casing, and finally, the electronic board(s) are positioned above the electromagnetic shielding and fixed to the casing.

[0013]

[0011] Assembling such an inverter is therefore relatively long and complex, due to the relatively large number of components and steps, particularly for fastening. This number of stacked components also leads to a relatively large footprint and significant complexity in determining tolerances.

[0014] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015]

[0012] The present invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above. In particular, it aims to provide an inverter that is particularly simple to manufacture and economical while also being efficient.

[0016]

[0013] To this end, the invention relates to an electromagnetic shielding structure for an inverter, said inverter comprising an electronic component provided with a connection pin and / or terminals, said electromagnetic shielding structure being characterized in that it comprises a metallic electromagnetic shielding plate, a first plastic insert and a second plastic insert fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate, each insert forming one of:

[0017] - a guide element defining at least one guide orifice, the guide orifice being configured to guide the connection pin of the electronic component through the electromagnetic shielding plate and which is calibrated and positioned so as to conform to the position and orientation of the connection pin, the guide element being shaped to electrically isolate from the electromagnetic shielding plate a portion of the connection pin that is received in the guide orifice of the guide element; - a support element having a housing adapted to receive a sensor, such as a temperature sensor, the housing extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate; and

[0018] - a wall projecting from one face of the electromagnetic shielding plate and substantially orthogonal to a general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate, the wall being configured to be interposed between two adjacent terminals of the electronic component and to electrically isolate the two terminals from each other with the second insert which is different from the first insert.

[0019]

[0014] In the electromagnetic shielding structure according to the invention, several plastic inserts are fixed on the electromagnetic shielding plate to enable it to perform, in addition to its initial function of protection against electromagnetic radiation, additional functions which are usually obtained by placing an additional part in the inverter.

[0020]

[0015] The electromagnetic shielding structure according to the invention thus offers, within a monolithic structure, effective protection against electromagnetic interference, while being able to either precisely guide a connecting pin via the guiding member, or maintain the sensor in a predefined position via the support member, or electrically isolate the conductive bars of a power module via the wall, or a combination of several of these functions.

[0021]

[0016] In other words, the electromagnetic shielding plate is provided with a combination of different inserts, for example a guide element and a support element, a guide element and a wall, a support element and a wall, or a guide element, a support element and a wall.

[0022]

[0017] Furthermore, although this electromagnetic shielding structure offers more functionality than conventional shielding, the integration of several plastic inserts on a metal plate is relatively simple to implement and does not generate excessive costs.

[0023]

[0018] Because it integrates several functions onto a single piece, the electromagnetic shielding structure is compact, lightweight, and allows for both quick and convenient assembly of the inverter, leading to a reduction in inverter manufacturing costs.

[0019] By "connecting pin" or simply "pin," a male connector in the form of a rigid metal strip adapted to be inserted into a corresponding female connector is understood. Such a pin is generally referred to by the English term "pin."

[0020] Preferred, simple, convenient, and economical features of the electromagnetic shielding structure according to the invention are presented below.

[0024]

[0021] The electromagnetic shielding plate may have at least one opening, the insert being received at least in part in said at least one opening.

[0025]

[0022] The electromagnetic shielding plate may have a first face and a second face opposite the first face, each insert may partially cover the first face and / or the second face around at least one opening.

[0026]

[0023] Each insert can be overmolded, snapped or button-locked to the electromagnetic shielding plate.

[0027]

[0024] Preferably, the electromagnetic shielding structure may include a third insert different from the first insert and the second insert and forming one among the guide member, the support member and the wall.

[0028]

[0025] The first insert may be distinct from the second insert, the first insert and the second insert being formed as a single unit, preferably the electromagnetic shielding structure comprising a third insert distinct from the first and second inserts, the third insert forming one among the guide element, the support element and the wall and being formed as a single unit with the first and second inserts.

[0029]

[0026] The first insert and the second insert can be connected by a rigid plastic cord which extends along one face of the electromagnetic shielding plate.

[0030]

[0027] The electromagnetic shielding plate may have another opening opposite the rigid cord, the rigid cord passing through the other opening and partially covering the opposite face around the other opening, preferably the other opening is globally centered between the first insert and the second insert.

[0031]

[0028] The guide orifice of the guide member may have a straight cylindrical upper part and a flared lower part, preferably the flared lower part of the guide orifice is conical.

[0032]

[0029] The housing of the support member can be opened on one of a first face and a second face, opposite to the first face, of the electromagnetic shielding plate so as to be able to insert the sensor into the housing by said first face or said second face and to put it against a stop of said housing.

[0033]

[0030] The electromagnetic shielding plate may include a plurality of distinct bosses projecting from a face of said electromagnetic shielding plate, each boss defining a substantially flat surface which is raised relative to a general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate.

[0034]

[0031] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to an inverter comprising:

[0035] - an electronic component equipped with a connection pin and / or terminals, - an electromagnetic shielding structure as described above, and

[0036] - an electronic control board equipped with a female connector, in which the electromagnetic shielding structure is arranged between the electronic component and the electronic control board, and in which:

[0037] • The electromagnetic shielding structure includes a guide element, the connection pin of the electronic component passing through the guide element's opening and being inserted into the female connector of the electronic control board to electrically connect the electronic component and the electronic control board, and / or

[0038] • The electromagnetic shielding structure includes a support element, and the inverter includes a sensor, such as a temperature sensor, received in the housing of the support element and extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate; preferably, the inverter includes a cooling plate in contact with the electronic component, and the sensor is a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature representative of the temperature of the electronic component; preferably, the temperature sensor is in contact with the cooling plate to measure its temperature, and / or

[0039] • the electromagnetic shielding structure includes a wall, the wall projecting from one face of the metallic shielding plate and substantially orthogonal to a general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate, the terminals of the electronic component extending substantially parallel to the general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate of the electromagnetic shielding structure, and the wall being interposed between two adjacent terminals of the electronic component.

[0040]

[0032] The invention also relates, according to a third aspect, to a method for manufacturing an electromagnetic shielding structure as described above, comprising:

[0041] - the supply of an electromagnetic shielding plate, and

[0042] - the fixing of a first plastic insert and a second plastic insert onto the electromagnetic shielding plate, each plastic insert forming one of:

[0043] • a guide member defining at least one guide orifice, with the guide orifice configured to guide the connecting pin of the electronic component through the electromagnetic shielding plate and calibrated and positioned to conform to the position and orientation of the connecting pin, the guide member being shaped to electrically isolate from the electromagnetic shielding plate a portion of the connecting pin which is received in the guide orifice of the guide member;

[0044] • a support element comprising a housing adapted to receive a sensor, such as a temperature sensor, with the housing extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate; and

[0045] • a low wall projecting from one face of the metallic shielding plate and substantially orthogonal to a general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate, with the second insert being different from the first insert.

[0046]

[0033] The manufacturing process may include fixing the first insert and the second insert to the electromagnetic shielding plate by overmolding, snap-fitting or riveting.

[0047]

[0034] The manufacturing process may include fixing the first insert and fixing the second insert, separate from the first insert, the first insert and the second insert being formed as a single piece, the fixing of the first insert and the fixing of the second insert being carried out simultaneously.

[0048]

[0035] The invention also relates, according to a fourth aspect, to a method for manufacturing an inverter as described above, comprising:

[0049] - the supply of an electronic component equipped with a connection pin and / or a terminal,

[0050] - the provision of an electromagnetic shielding structure as described above,

[0051] - the supply of an electronic control board including at least one female connector,

[0052] - the positioning of the electromagnetic shielding structure above the electronic component,

[0053] - the positioning of the electronic control board above the electromagnetic shielding structure,

[0054] - preferably, the simultaneous mounting of the electromagnetic shielding structure and the electronic control board, in which:

[0055] • The electromagnetic shielding structure includes a guide element, the connection pin of the electronic component passing through the guide element's opening and being inserted into the female connector of the electronic control board to electrically connect the electronic component and the electronic control board, and / or • The electromagnetic shielding structure includes a support element and the inverter includes a sensor, such as a temperature sensor, received in the housing of the support element and extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate; preferably the inverter includes a cooling plate in contact with the electronic component and the sensor is a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the cooling plate, preferably the temperature sensor is in contact with the cooling plate, and / or

[0056] • the electromagnetic shielding structure includes a wall, the wall projecting from one face of the metallic shielding plate and substantially orthogonal to a general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate, the terminals of the electronic component extending substantially parallel to the general plane of extension of the electromagnetic shielding plate of the electromagnetic shielding structure, and the wall being interposed between two adjacent terminals of the electronic component.

[0057] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0058]

[0036] Other advantages, purposes and special features of the present invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the devices and methods of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059]

[0037] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the inverter according to the invention.

[0060]

[0038] Figure 2 schematically and partially represents, in a cross-sectional view, the inverter of Figure 1, in an assembled configuration.

[0061]

[0039] Figures 3 to 7 represent an electromagnetic shielding structure according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0062]

[0040] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view, marked AA in Figure 5, showing a guide element fixed to an electromagnetic shielding plate of said electromagnetic shielding structure.

[0063]

[0041] Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional view, labeled BB in Figure 5, showing a support member holding a temperature sensor and being fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate.

[0064]

[0042] Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view, labeled CC in Figure 5, showing a wall fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate of said electromagnetic shielding structure.

[0043] Figure 11 is a partial cross-sectional view, labeled DD in Figure 5, showing a rigid cord fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate of said electromagnetic shielding structure.

[0065]

[0044] Figures 12 to 14 show an insert according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0066]

[0045] Figures 15 to 19 show an insert according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0067]

[0046] Figure 20 shows an insert according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0068]

[0047] Figure 21 shows, in a schematic cross-sectional view, a spacer attached to the electromagnetic shielding plate according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0048] Figures 22 to 26 show an electromagnetic shielding structure according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0069] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0070]

[0049] Figures 1 and 2 schematically and partially represent an inverter 1 comprising power modules 3, here three in number, an electronic control board 4 configured to control the power modules 3, an electromagnetic shielding structure 5 and a sensor 36, here a temperature sensor.

[0071]

[0050] The inverter 1 further comprises a casing 2 housing at least partially the power modules 3, the electronic control board 4, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 and the temperature sensor 36.

[0072]

[0051] The housing 2 here includes a cooling plate 6 which is configured to be in contact with the power modules 3 and adapted to dissipate at least part of the thermal energy generated by the power modules 3 into the air or into a coolant, by means of a dissipation system (not shown) which may for example include several heat dissipation fins.

[0073]

[0052] The temperature sensor 36 is configured to measure information relating to the temperature of the power modules 3.

[0074]

[0053] The power modules 3 are each provided with terminals 8 or "external connections" (also referred to in Anglo-Saxon terminology as "lead frame"), here of which there are four, to allow the connection of the power module to a direct current power source on the one hand and to a phase of an electrical machine on the other hand, and with connection pins 7, here of which there are five, to allow the connection with the electronic control board 4.

[0054] In particular, each power module 3 is provided with three input terminals 8a configured to be connected to a direct current power source and one output terminal 8b configured to be connected to an electrical machine.

[0075]

[0055] The input terminals 8a extend juxtaposedly from a first side of the power modules 3 and are substantially parallel to each other, while the output terminal 8b extends from a second side opposite to the first side.

[0076]

[0056] The connection pins 7 extend in a juxtaposed manner, mainly along a first extension direction orthogonal to a second extension direction of the terminals 8. They extend here from the second side of the power modules 3, from which the output terminal 8b extends, and are arranged on either side of the latter.

[0077]

[0057] The electronic control board 4 includes female connectors 9 configured to receive the connection pins 7 of the power modules 3. The female connectors 9 may be receiving holes formed in the electronic control board 4 and allowing the connection pins to be soldered once they have been correctly inserted through the electronic power board.

[0078]

[0058] The electromagnetic shielding structure 5 is configured to protect the electronic control board 4 from electromagnetic radiation emitted by the power modules 3 during their operation while allowing the passage of the connection pins 7 to the female connectors 9 of the electronic control board 4.

[0079]

[0059] As shown in Figure 2, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 is arranged between the power modules 3 and the control electronic board 4. The connection pins 7 of the power modules 3 pass through the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 and are inserted into the female connectors 9 of the control electronic board 4. The electromagnetic shielding structure 5 is thus configured to protect the control electronic board 4 against electromagnetic radiation emitted by the power modules 3, while allowing the passage of the connection pins 7 for the electrical connection between the power modules 3 and the control electronic board 4. The electromagnetic shielding structure is also configured to absorb some of the thermal energy released by the power modules 3, and thus provides thermal protection for the control electronic board 4.

[0080]

[0060] It should be noted that, in the context of an inverter 1 used in an electric or hybrid vehicle, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 also makes it possible to protect components of the vehicle's passenger compartment, such as the radio, against electromagnetic radiation emitted by the power modules 3.

[0081]

[0061] The temperature sensor 36 is carried by the electromagnetic shielding structure 5, with its sensitive surface in contact with the cooling plate 6 of the housing 2, and with its pins inserted into the female connectors 9 of the electronic control board 4.

[0082]

[0062] The electronic control board 4 and the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 are fixed to the housing 2 by means of screws 10. The screws 10 pass through both the electronic control board 4 and the electromagnetic shielding structure 5, which allows them to be fixed to the housing 2 in a single screwing operation.

[0083]

[0063] It should be noted that the inverter 1 is devoid of an intermediate part, between the power modules 3 and the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 or between the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 and the electronic control board 4, to ensure the functions of guiding and orienting the connection pins 7 of the power modules 3, of maintaining a sensor in position and of electrically isolating the terminals 8 of the power modules 3. As discussed in more detail below, this is permitted by the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 according to the invention.

[0084]

[0064] Thus, the manufacturing process of the inverter 1 includes on the one hand the supply of the casing 2, the power modules 3, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5, the electronic control board 4 and the temperature sensor 36.

[0085]

[0065] On the other hand, it successively comprises the positioning of the power modules on the cooling plate 6 of the housing 2, the positioning of the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 above the power modules 3, the positioning of the electronic control board 4 above the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 and the simultaneous fixing of the electromagnetic shielding structure and the electronic control board 4 on the housing 2, here by means of the screws 10.

[0086]

[0066] The manufacture of the inverter 1 therefore requires very few steps, all of which can be automated, and is thus relatively simple and quick to produce. In particular, it should be noted that the process involves only one screw-fixing step, which is particularly advantageous.

[0087]

[0067] We will now describe in more detail, with reference to figures 3 to 7, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0088]

[0068] The electromagnetic shielding structure 5 includes a metallic electromagnetic shielding plate 11 adapted to block at least partially electromagnetic radiation emitted by electronic components of an inverter, such as power modules.

[0089]

[0069] It has a first face 18, visible in Figure 3 and Figure 5, intended to be opposite the power modules 3 and a second face 19, visible in Figure 4 and Figure 6, opposite the first face 18 and intended to be opposite the electronic control board 4.

[0070] It has a plurality of fixing holes 21, here thirteen in number, for the passage of screws for its fixing to the housing 2 and a plurality of centering holes 22, here two in number, for the passage of pins or indexing fingers (not shown).

[0090]

[0071] It also includes a plurality of distinct bosses 24 projecting from the second face 19 and defining a substantially flat surface which is raised relative to a general extension plane P of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, as is particularly visible in Figure 7. Some of the mounting holes 21 are arranged on the raised surface of these bosses 24. This makes it possible to position the general extension plane P of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 in a plane different from that imposed by the mounting elements of the housing 2, and for example to bring it closer either to the power modules 3 or to the electronic control board 4.

[0091]

[0072] Furthermore, the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 includes spacers 17 arranged around at least some of the mounting holes, and more particularly the mounting holes that are not located on raised surfaces. The spacers 17 protrude from the second face 19 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, forming a bearing surface for the screws, which bearing surface here extends substantially in the same plane as the substantially flat surface defined by the bosses 24. The spacers 17 are, for example, metallic and crimped onto the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0092]

[0073] The electromagnetic shielding plate 11 further comprises three cover portions 12, each cover portion being intended to at least partially cover a power module, and an intermediate portion 13 disposed between two cover portions 12.

[0093]

[0074] It further comprises plastic inserts 14, 15, 16 which are fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 in the cover portions 12 and in the intermediate portion 13.

[0094]

[0075] The inserts here are guide members 14 each having several guide holes 31, each dimensioned to allow the passage of a single connecting pin through the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, a support member 15 having a housing 35 adapted to receive the temperature sensor 36, and walls 16 projecting mainly from the first face 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 and being substantially orthogonal to the general extension plane P of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0095]

[0076] In particular, each portion of the cover 12 is provided with guide elements 14 and walls 16.

[0096]

[0077] The guide holes 31 of the guide members 14 are distributed and configured so as to ensure precise positioning and orientation of the connection pins 7 of the power modules 3 which pass through them in order to facilitate their insertion into the female connectors 9 of the electronic control board 4 without damaging them.

[0097]

[0078] The walls 16 are distributed and configured so that each wall is interposed between two adjacent terminals 8 of the same power module 3. Due to the high voltages flowing through these terminals 8, particularly the input terminals 8a, it is important to ensure good electrical insulation. Such a wall 16 therefore serves to electrically isolate two adjacent terminals 8, and thus limits, or even prevents, the formation of electrical arcs between these terminals 8.

[0098]

[0079] The intermediate portion 13 is provided with a support member 15 configured to hold the temperature sensor 36 in a predefined position in which, for example, its sensitive surface is in contact with the cooling plate.

[0099]

[0080] The electromagnetic shielding structure 5 thus serves both to protect the electronic control board from electromagnetic radiation emitted by the power modules and to guide and orient the connection pins 7 of the power modules 3, to maintain the temperature sensor 36 in position, and to electrically isolate the terminals 8 of the power modules 3. It therefore eliminates the need for an intermediate component configured to perform these functions, while remaining relatively simple.

[0081] As can be particularly seen in Figures 3 and 5, some of the inserts 14, 15, 16 are connected to each other by a rigid plastic cord 26 to form a group of inserts. The rigid cord 26 is present when the inserts 14, 15, 16 are overmolded onto the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.Such a rigid bead 26 makes it possible to limit the number of plastic injection points and thus reduce the complexity of the molding tool. Each group of inserts 14, 15, 16 or each rigid bead 26, here three in number, corresponds to one injection point.

[0100]

[0082] In the example shown, some of the guide members 14 and some of the walls 16 of each portion of cover 12 are connected together, so as to form three distinct groups of inserts, each comprising here two guide members 14, two walls 16 and a rigid cord 26 connecting the guide members 14 and the walls 16 together.

[0101]

[0083] One of the groups of inserts arranged on a portion of cover 12 adjacent to the intermediate portion 13 further comprises the support member 15. More particularly, the support member 15 is connected by the rigid cord 26 to the guide members 14 and to the walls 16.

[0102]

[0084] The inserts 14, 15, 16 and the rigid cord 26 of each group of inserts are formed in one piece, that is to say from a single block of plastic material.

[0103]

[0085] The rigid cord 26 of each group of inserts extends along the first face 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, and passes through the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 so as to protrude slightly from the second face 19, at a point which is here centered with respect to the inserts of the same group of inserts.

[0104]

[0086] We will now describe in more detail, with reference to figures 8 to 10, the inserts visible in figures 3 to 7 and the way in which they are fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate 11. It should be noted that the inserts illustrated in figures 8 to 10 are overmolded onto the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0105]

[0087] Overmolding allows for fairly good positioning tolerances of the inserts, and also allows the use of technical plastic materials, such as fiber-reinforced plastics to promote mechanical strength, or elastomer-reinforced plastics to promote resistance to thermal shock.

[0106]

[0088] Generally, the choice of plastic material is determined by dimensional stability, moisture absorption, vibration resistance, temperature resistance and the tracking index or "Comparative Tracking Index" in Anglo-Saxon terminology.

[0107]

[0089] In particular, the inserts can be made of polyamide 66 or nylon 66 (PA66), polyamide 6 or nylon 6 (PA6), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0108]

[0090] As can be seen in figure 8, the guide orifice 31 of each guide member 14 has an upper part 32 which is straight cylindrical and a lower part 33 which is flared, and for example conical.

[0109]

[0091] The flared lower part 33 allows a slight correction of the orientation and positioning of the connection pin 7 when setting up the electromagnetic shielding structure 5.

[0110]

[0092] The upper part 32 ensures good retention of the connection pin 7 in position and orientation.

[0111]

[0093] The electromagnetic shielding plate 11 has a first opening 27 in which the guiding element 14 is at least partially housed. Two first openings 27 are shown in Figure 8, but only one opening is referred to hereafter for clarity.

[0112]

[0094] The guide member 14 is shaped to electrically isolate from the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 a portion of the connecting pin 7 which is received in the guide orifice 31. In other words, the guide member 14 is shaped to keep the portion of the connecting pin 7 received in the guide orifice 31 away from the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, and more particularly away from the contour of the first opening 27.

[0113]

[0095] The guide element 14 partially covers the first face 18 and the second face 19 around the first opening 27. The overlap area of ​​the guide element 14 on the first face 18 and on the second face 19 has an oblong shape. This arrangement ensures that the guide element 14 is securely held on the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0114]

[0096] As can be seen in Figure 9, the temperature sensor 36 is inserted into the housing 35 of the support member 15 through the first face 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11. In other words, the housing 35 is open on the first face 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11. The housing 35 in this case has a stop 41 against which an upper face of the temperature sensor 36 is configured to bear.

[0115]

[0097] A clipping system may also be provided, preventing the temperature sensor 36 from spontaneously coming out of the housing 35 when the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 is lifted and handled.

[0116]

[0098] The temperature sensor 36 is here provided with a main part 38, a sensitive surface 37 located in the lower part of the main part 38 and which must be in contact with the surface whose temperature is to be measured, as well as two pins 39 which protrude from the main part 38 and which are intended to deliver the signal generated by the temperature sensor 36.

[0117]

[0099] In order to ensure contact between the sensitive surface 37 of the temperature sensor

[0118] 36 and the cooling plate 6, it is possible to foresee that the distance between the stop 41 and the cooling plate 6 is slightly less, for example by about 0.2 mm, than the distance between the upper face of the temperature sensor 36 and the sensitive surface 37.

[0119]

[0100] The upper stop 41 can be configured to have the necessary flexibility to allow mounting and to ensure a pressure force on the temperature sensor 36 which guarantees contact of the sensitive surface 37 on the cooling plate 6. Preferably, the sensitive surface 37 is kept permanently in contact with the cooling plate 6 in order to improve the efficiency of the measurement.

[0120]

[0101] In addition, the housing 35 is configured to guide and position the pins 39 for insertion into the female connectors 9 of the electronic control board 4. It is also shaped to electrically isolate the pins 39 of the temperature sensor 36 from the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0121]

[0102] The electromagnetic shielding plate 11 has a second opening 28 in which the support member 15 is at least partially housed.

[0122]

[0103] The support member 15 partially covers the first face 18 and the second face 19 around the second opening 28. The overlap area of ​​the support member 15 on the first face 18 and on the second face 19 is rectangular in shape. This arrangement ensures that the support member 15 is securely held on the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0104] As can be seen in Figure 10, the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 has a third opening 29 in which the wall 16 is at least partially housed.

[0123]

[0105] The wall 16 partially covers the first face 18 and the second face 19 around the third opening 29. The area of ​​overlap of the wall 16 on the first face 18 and on the second face 19 has here an oblong shape.

[0124]

[0106] As can be seen in Figure 11, the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 has a fourth opening 30 through which the rigid cord 26 passes through the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0125]

[0107] The rigid cord 26 partially covers, at the level of the fourth opening 30, the first face 18 and the second face 19 around the fourth 30. The area of ​​overlap of the rigid cord 26 on the first face 18 on the second face 19 has a substantially annular shape.

[0126]

[0108] Figures 12 to 14 show an electromagnetic shielding structure onto which a plastic insert is fixed not by overmolding, but by riveting. Riveting allows for easy attachment to the electromagnetic shielding plate, which does not require a mold for injection around this plate, unlike overmolding. The insert shown is, by way of example, a small wall, but other inserts can of course be fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate in this way.

[0127]

[0109] Apart from the way it is fixed, this wall has the same function as the wall illustrated in figures 3 to 7 and 10. The same numerical references are therefore used in figures 11 to 13 to designate the same elements.

[0128]

[0110] As can be seen in Figure 12, the wall 16, which is made of plastic material, for example the same as for the overmolded inserts, has a lower face 45 that is generally orthogonal to the wall 16 and from which two distinct pins 46 of substantially cylindrical shape protrude. Each pin 46 is hollow and has an annular cross-section.

[0129]

[0111] In figure 13, the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 has two passage holes, namely a first passage hole 47 and a second passage hole 48, each adapted to receive one of the pins 46.

[0130]

[0112] The first passage opening 47 has a substantially circular cross-section, while the second passage opening 48 has a substantially oblong cross-section, the longest axis of which is aligned with the first passage opening 47. This configuration ensures precise assembly of the wall 16 onto the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 while tolerating some variation in the positioning of the pins 46 relative to each other.

[0113] The pins 46 are dimensioned to protrude from one face of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, here the second face 19, when the lower face 45 of the wall 16 rests against the other face of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, here the first face 18.

[0131]

[0114] As shown in Figure 14, the protruding portion of each pin 46 is then deformed, for example by heating and pressing it, until it partially covers the second face 19 around the corresponding passage 47, 48. The wall 16 is then firmly held to the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 by being precisely positioned. It should be noted that after being deformed, the pins 46 generally have an annular shape with a hollow in their center.

[0132]

[0115] Figures 15 to 20 show an electromagnetic shielding structure onto which an insert is fixed not by overmolding, but by snap-fitting. Snap-fitting allows the insert to be fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate simply by bringing one or more parts together. The insert shown is, by way of example, a low wall, but other inserts can of course be fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate in this way.

[0133]

[0116] Apart from the way it is fixed, this wall has the same function as the wall illustrated in figures 3 to 7 and 10. The same numerical references are therefore used in figures 15 to 19 to designate the same elements.

[0134]

[0117] The wall 16 is here formed in two snap-together parts, namely a first part 50 illustrated in figure 15 and a second part 55 illustrated in figure 16.

[0135]

[0118] As can be seen in figure 15, the first part 50 of the wall 16 has a lower face 45 in which two distinct stud housings 49 of substantially cylindrical shape are provided, and a first snap-on member 51, here formed by a snap-on housing inside which two cavities 52 are provided (only one being visible in figure 15).

[0136]

[0119] As can be seen in Figure 16, the second part 55 of the wall 16 has a generally flat front face 56 from which two distinct, substantially cylindrical studs 57 project, and a second complementary latching member 58, here formed by two latching hooks projecting from the front face 56 and each comprising a tooth 59, the teeth 59 extending in opposite directions. The studs 57 are configured to fit into the stud recesses 49 of the first part 50 of the wall 16. The second complementary latching member 58 is configured to latch with the first latching member 51.

[0137]

[0120] In Figure 17, the electromagnetic shielding plate has three passage holes, namely a first passage hole 47, a second passage hole 48 and a third passage hole 60.

[0121] The first passage hole 47 and the second passage hole 48 are configured to allow the passage of the studs 57. They are similar to those described with reference to Figure 12.

[0138]

[0122] The third passage orifice 60 is configured to allow the passage of the second complementary ratcheting member 58. It has a rectangular cross-section.

[0139]

[0123] Figure 18 and Figure 19 show the snap-fit ​​assembly of the first part 50 and the second part 55 of the wall 16.

[0140]

[0124] The lower face 45 of the first part 50 is in contact with the first face

[0141] 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, with the stud housings 49 and the snap housing 51 which are opposite respectively the first and second passage holes 47, 48 and the third passage hole 60.

[0142]

[0125] The front face 56 of the second part 55 is in contact with the second face

[0143] 19 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, with the studs 57 and the snap hooks 58 which pass through respectively the first and second passage holes 47, 48 and the third passage hole 60 and which protrude from the first face 18.

[0144]

[0126] The wall 16 is configured so that, when the first part 50 and the second part 55 approach each other, the ratchet hooks 58 are elastically deformed so as to be brought closer together when they come into contact with walls of the ratchet housing 51 and so that, when the teeth 59 of the ratchet hooks 58 reach the cavities 52, the hooks relax and return to their initial position, thus holding the first part 50 and the second part 55 together, on either side of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11.

[0145]

[0127] Figure 20 shows a variant of snap-fit ​​assembly of an insert, here a wall, onto the electromagnetic shielding plate, in which the wall is in one piece and is configured to snap directly onto the electromagnetic shielding plate.

[0146]

[0128] Apart from the way it is fixed, this wall has the same function as the wall illustrated in figures 3 to 7 and 10. The same numerical references are therefore used in figure 20 to designate the same elements.

[0147]

[0129] The wall 16 has a generally flat front face 56 from which protrudes a ratcheting member 58, here formed by two ratcheting hooks 58 each comprising a tooth 59, the teeth 59 extending in opposite directions.

[0148]

[0130] The electromagnetic shielding plate has a passage orifice 60.

[0149]

[0131] The latching member 58 is configured to latch with the passage orifice 60.

[0132] In particular, the wall 16 is configured so that, when the wall 16 and the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 approach each other, the latching hooks 58 are elastically deformed so as to be brought closer together when they come into contact with the first face 18 of the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, and so that, when the teeth 59 of the latching hooks 58 pass through the passage orifice 60, the latching hooks 58 relax and return to their initial position, thus holding the wall 16 and the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 together, the teeth 59 covering a portion of the second face 19 around the orifice. passage 60.

[0150]

[0133] Figure 21 shows, by way of example, an electromagnetic shielding structure in which a spacer is fixed not by crimping, but by overmolding. Apart from the way it is fixed, this spacer has the same function as the spacer 17 illustrated in Figure 4. The same numerical references are therefore used in Figure 21 to designate the same elements.

[0151]

[0134] The spacer 17 is here formed by a metallic body 65 having a hollow cylinder shape and a plastic fixing part 66.

[0152]

[0135] The fixing part 66 is overmolded both around the body 65 and on the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, at the level of a fixing hole 21. It is thus possible to take advantage of the overmolding of the plastic inserts.

[0153]

[0136] The body 65 is held at least partially in the fixing hole 21 by the fixing part 66.

[0154]

[0137] In particular, the fixing portion 66 partially covers the first face 18 and the second face 19 around the corresponding fixing hole 21. The overlap area of ​​the wall 16 on the first face 18 and on the second face 19 has an annular shape here.

[0155]

[0138] Figures 22 to 26 show, by way of example, an electromagnetic shielding structure according to another embodiment of the invention. Only the spacers and the number of inserts differ from the embodiment described with reference to Figures 3 to 7. The same numerals are therefore used in Figures 22 to 26 to designate the same elements.

[0156]

[0139] In the present embodiment, the electromagnetic shielding plate 11 is devoid of bosses including fixing holes and has, in place of these bosses, metallic spacers 17 crimped onto the electromagnetic shielding plate 11, as seen in Figure 23 and Figure 26.

[0157]

[0140] In addition, the electromagnetic shielding structure 5 comprises two support members 15, each disposed in an intermediate portion 13 located between two cover portions 12, as seen in Figure 22, Figure 24 and Figure 25.

[0158]

[0141] Variants not illustrated are described below.

[0159]

[0142] The inverter may include one, two, three, or more than three power modules.

[0143] Each power module may include a different number of connection pins and terminals.

[0160]

[0144] The sensor can be a hygrometric sensor configured to measure the humidity level in the surrounding air, a pressure sensor, or a contact sensor configured to detect contact between the electromagnetic shielding structure and the cooling plate, rather than a temperature sensor. The guide holes of the electromagnetic shielding structure's guide element have been described in the context of guiding the connection pins of power modules, but can be used and adapted to guide the control pins of other inverter components, such as a low-voltage connector.

[0161]

[0145] The electromagnetic shielding support may include a different number of inserts.

[0162]

[0146] The surface of the electromagnetic shielding plate at the overlapping areas of the inserts can be textured to promote the adhesion of the plastic material.

[0163] NOMENCLATURE

[0164] - 1: Inverter

[0165] - 2: Carter

[0166] - 3: Power Module

[0167] - 4: Electronic control board

[0168] - 5: Electromagnetic shielding structure

[0169] - 6: Cooling plate

[0170] - 7: Connection pin

[0171] - 8: Terminal

[0172] - 9: Female connector

[0173] - 10: Screw

[0174] - 11: Electromagnetic shielding plate

[0175] - 12: Cover portion

[0176] - 13: Intermediate portion

[0177] - 14: Guiding element

[0178] - 15: Supporting component

[0179] - 16: Muret

[0180] - 17: Spacer

[0181] - 18: First side

[0182] - 19: Second side

[0183] - 21: Mounting hole - 22: Centering hole

[0184] - 24: Bossage

[0185] - 26: Rigid cord

[0186] - 27: First opening

[0187] - 28: Second opening

[0188] - 29: Third opening

[0189] - 30: Fourth opening

[0190] - 31: Guide hole

[0191] - 32: Upper part

[0192] - 33: Lower part

[0193] - 35: Housing

[0194] - 36: Sensor

[0195] - 37: Sensitive surface

[0196] - 38: Main section

[0197] - 39: Brooches

[0198] - 41: Stop

[0199] - 45: Lower face

[0200] - 46: Pawns

[0201] - 47: First passage opening

[0202] - 48: Second passage opening

[0203] - 49: Plot housing

[0204] - 50: Part One

[0205] - 51: First locking mechanism

[0206] - 52: Cavity

[0207] - 55: Part Two

[0208] - 56: Front view

[0209] - 57: Plot

[0210] - 58: Snap hook

[0211] - 59: Tooth

[0212] - 60: Third passage opening

Claims

Demands 1. Electromagnetic shielding structure for an inverter, said inverter (1) comprising an electronic component (3) provided with a connection pin (7) and / or terminals (8), said electromagnetic shielding structure (5) being characterized in that it comprises a metallic electromagnetic shielding plate (11), a first plastic insert (14, 15, 16) and a second plastic insert (14, 15, 16) fixed to the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), each insert (14, 15, 16) forming one of: - a guide member (14) defining at least one guide orifice (31), the guide orifice (31) being configured to guide the connecting pin (7) of the electronic component (3) through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and which is calibrated and positioned so as to conform the position and orientation of the connecting pin (7), the guide member (14) being shaped to electrically isolate from the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) a portion of the connecting pin (7) which is received in the guide orifice (31) of the guide member (14); - a support member (15) comprising a housing (35) adapted to receive a sensor (36), such as a temperature sensor, the housing (35) extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11); and - a wall (16) projecting from a face (18) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and which is substantially orthogonal to a general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), the wall (16) being configured to be interposed between two adjacent terminals (8) of the electronic component (3) and to electrically isolate the two terminals (8) from each other; with the second insert (14, 15, 16) which is different from the first insert (14, 15, 16).

2. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) has at least one opening (27, 28, 29), each insert (14, 15, 16) being received at least in part in the at least one opening (27, 28, 29).

3. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to claim 2, the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) having a first face (18) and a second face (19) opposite the first face (18), in which each insert (14, 15, 16) partially covers the first face (18) and / or the second face (19) around the at least one opening (27, 28, 29).

4. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each insert (14, 15, 16) is overmolded, snapped or riveted to the electromagnetic shielding plate (11).

5. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the first insert (14, 15, 16) is distinct from the second insert (14, 15, 16), the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16) being formed as a single unit, preferably the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) comprising a third insert (14, 15, 16) distinct from the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16), the third insert (14, 15, 16) forming one of the guide element (14), the support element (15) and the wall (16) and being formed as a single unit with the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16).

6. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to claim 5, wherein the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16) are connected by a rigid plastic cord (26) which extends along one face (18) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11).

7. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to claim 6, wherein the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) has another opening (30) opposite the rigid cord (26), the rigid cord (26) passing through the other opening (30) and partially covering the opposite face (19) around the other opening (30), preferably the other opening (30) is globally centered between the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16).

8. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the guide orifice (31) of the guide member (14) has a straight cylindrical upper part (32) and a flared lower part (33), preferably the flared lower part (33) of the guide orifice (31) is conical.

9. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the housing (35) of the support member (15) is open on one of a first face (18) and a second face (19), opposite to the first face (18), of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) so as to be able to insert the sensor (36) into the housing (35) by said first face (18) or said second face (19) and to bring it against a stop (41) of said housing (35).

10. Electromagnetic shielding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) comprises a plurality of distinct bosses (24) projecting from a face (18) of said electromagnetic shielding plate (11), each boss (24) defining a substantially flat surface which is raised relative to a general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11).

11. Inverter comprising: - an electronic component (3) provided with a connection pin (7) and / or terminals (8), - an electromagnetic shielding structure (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, and - an electronic control board (4) provided with a female connector (9), in which the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) is disposed between the electronic component (3) and the electronic control board (4), and in which: - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a guide element (14), the connection pin (7) of the electronic component (3) passing through the guide hole (31) of the guide element (14) and being inserted into the female connector (9) of the electronic control board (4) to electrically connect the electronic component (3) and the electronic control board (4), and / or - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a support member (15) and the inverter (1) includes a sensor (36), such as a temperature sensor, received in the housing (35) of the support member (15) and extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11); preferably the inverter (1) includes a cooling plate (6) in contact with the electronic component (3) and the sensor (36) is a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature representative of the temperature of the electronic component (3), preferably the temperature sensor (36) is in contact with the cooling plate (6) to measure its temperature, and / or - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a wall (16), the wall (16) being projecting from a face (18) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and substantially orthogonal to a general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), the terminals (8) of the electronic component (3) extending substantially parallel to the general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) of the electromagnetic shielding structure (5), and the wall (16) being interposed between two adjacent terminals (8) of the electronic component (3).

12. A method for manufacturing an electromagnetic shielding structure (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising: - the supply of an electromagnetic shielding plate (11), and - the fixing of a first plastic insert (14, 15, 16) and a second plastic insert (14, 15, 16) onto the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), each plastic insert (14, 15, 16) forming one of: • a guide member (14) defining at least one guide orifice (31), with the guide orifice (31) which is configured to guide the connecting pin (7) of the electronic component (3) through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and which is calibrated and positioned so as to conform the position and orientation of the connecting pin (7), the guide member (14) being shaped to electrically isolate from the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) a portion of the connecting pin (7) which is received in the guide orifice (31) of the guide member (14); • a support member (15) comprising a housing (35) adapted to receive a sensor (36), such as a temperature sensor, with the housing (35) extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11); and • a wall (16) projecting from a face (18) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and which is substantially orthogonal to a general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11); with the second insert (14, 15, 16) which is different from the first insert (14, 15, 16).

13. Manufacturing method according to claim 12, comprising fixing the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16) to the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) by overmolding, snap-fitting or riveting.

14. A manufacturing method according to claim 12 or 13, comprising attaching the first insert (14, 15, 16) and attaching the second insert (14, 15, 16), separate from the first insert (14, 15, 16), the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the second insert (14, 15, 16) being formed as a single unit, the attachment of the first insert (14, 15, 16) and the attachment of the second insert (14, 15. 16) being implemented simultaneously.

15. A method for manufacturing an inverter according to claim 11, comprising: - the supply of an electronic component (3) provided with a connection pin (7) and / or a terminal (8), - the supply of an electromagnetic shielding structure (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, - the supply of an electronic control board (4) comprising at least one female connector (9), - the positioning of the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) above the electronic component (3), - the positioning of the electronic control board (4) above the electromagnetic shielding structure (5), - preferably, the simultaneous attachment of the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) and the electronic control board (4), in which: - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a guide element (14), the connection pin (7) of the electronic component (3) passing through the guide hole (31) of the guide element (14) and being inserted into the female connector (9) of the electronic control board (4) to electrically connect the electronic component (3) and the electronic control board (4), and / or - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a support member (15) and the inverter (1) includes a sensor (36), such as a temperature sensor, received in the housing (35) of the support member (15) and extending at least partially through the electromagnetic shielding plate (11); preferably the inverter (1) includes a cooling plate (6) in contact with the electronic component (3) and the sensor (36) is a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the cooling plate (6), preferably the temperature sensor (36) is in contact with the cooling plate (6), and / or - the electromagnetic shielding structure (5) includes a wall (16), the wall (16) being projecting from a face (18) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) and substantially orthogonal to a general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11), the terminals (8) of the electronic component (3) extending substantially parallel to the general extension plane (P) of the electromagnetic shielding plate (11) of the electromagnetic shielding structure (5), and the wall (16) being interposed between two adjacent terminals (8) of the electronic component (3)

Images