Electrical connection unit

Abstract

An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of electronic components; a second rigid member on which the electronic components are mounted and which extends in a first direction and a second direction; a routing member which connects the electronic components; a fastening member which fastens the electronic components and the routing member; and a cover which is formed of an insulating member and covers the plurality of electronic components and the routing member so as to sandwich the same with the second rigid member. The fastening member can be attached to and detached from a component terminal of each of the plurality of electronic components from a direction along a virtual plane formed in the first direction and the second direction. The routing member is fixed to each electronic component by the fastening member. The cover has an inner surface facing the plurality of electronic components and the routing member in a third direction, and a rib part formed so as to protrude from the inner surface in the third direction. The rib part is disposed at a position so as to be opposite of the component terminal in a direction in which the component terminal faces.

Description

Electrical connection unit

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electrical connection unit. This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-179683 filed in Japan on October 15, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] In an electrical connection unit, it is known that electronic components such as relays and resistors are mounted on the mounting surface of the housing.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-113184

[0004] By the way, it is not preferable for dust such as metal pieces to adhere to the terminals of electronic components or bus bars connected to the electronic components in the electrical connection unit. Due to this restriction, a configuration in which dust is less likely to adhere is required.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of suppressing dust adhesion.

[0006] An electrical connection unit according to one embodiment includes a plurality of electronic components, a second rigid member on which the plurality of electronic components are mounted and extending in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, a wiring member connecting between the plurality of electronic components, a fastening member fastening the plurality of electronic components and the wiring member, and a cover formed of an insulating member and covering the plurality of electronic components and the wiring member so as to sandwich them between the second rigid member. The fastening member is detachable from the component terminals of each of the plurality of electronic components in a direction along a virtual plane formed by the first direction and the second direction. The wiring member is fixed to each of the electronic components by the fastening member. The cover has an inner surface facing the plurality of electronic components and the wiring member in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, and a rib portion formed to protrude from the inner surface in the third direction. The rib portion is disposed at a position facing the component terminal in the direction in which the component terminal faces.

[0007] According to one embodiment, dust adhesion can be suppressed.

[0008] A perspective view showing the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A plan view showing the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view showing the relay module of the embodiment. A perspective view showing the fuse module of the embodiment. A perspective view showing the terminal module of the embodiment. A perspective view showing the cover of the embodiment. A plan view showing the positional relationship between the first module and the second module of the embodiment. A plan view showing the positional relationship between the cover of the embodiment and the first module and the second module. An enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8. An enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8. A perspective view of the portion shown in Figure 10. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view for explaining the manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view showing the base plate of the first modified example.

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Duplication of these components may be omitted. Note that the components described below do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0010] In this disclosure, terms are defined as follows: “Connection” may include electrical connections, not just mechanical ones. That is, “Connection” may include cases where two elements to be connected are connected with another element in between, not just directly connected. “Accommodate” may include cases where only a part of a part is accommodated (with the remaining part protruding), not just the entire part. “Cover” may include cases where only a part of an object is covered, not just the entire object. “Facing” means that the virtual projections of two objects overlap when viewed from a particular direction. That is, “Facing” may include cases where two objects face each other with another member present between them, not just directly facing each other. “Parallel,” “orthogonal,” or “same” may include cases where they are “approximately parallel,” “approximately orthogonal,” or “approximately the same,” respectively.

[0011] In this disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows: The X direction is one direction in the plane along the base plate 2, which will be described later. The +X direction is one of the X directions. The -X direction is the direction opposite to the +X direction. Hereinafter, when the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "X direction". The Y direction is a direction that intersects (for example, is perpendicular to) the X direction in the plane along the base plate 2, which will be described later. The +Y direction is one of the Y directions. The -Y direction is the direction opposite to the +Y direction. Hereinafter, when the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The +Z direction and the -Z direction are directions that intersect (for example, are perpendicular to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the base plate 2, which will be described later, toward each of the first modules 3, 3c, which will be described later (see Figure 1). The -Z direction is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. In the following, when the +Z and -Z directions are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction". The X direction is an example of the "first direction". The Y direction is an example of the "second direction". The Z direction is an example of the "third direction".

[0012] In the following, when the X and Y directions are not distinguished, they may be referred to as the "horizontal direction." In the following, the Z direction may be referred to as the "vertical direction." Also, in the following, the +Z direction may be referred to as "up," and the -Z direction may be referred to as "down." However, these expressions are for the convenience of explanation and do not limit the direction of gravity of the electrical connection unit 1 (the installation orientation of the electrical connection unit 1).

[0013] (Embodiment) <1. Configuration of the Electrical Connection Unit> The electrical connection unit 1 is an in-vehicle device installed in a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The electrical connection unit 1 is connected to a plurality of external devices located outside. The electrical connection unit 1 mediates the connection between the plurality of external devices. For example, the external devices may include a battery pack, a load, a charger, etc. The battery pack is installed in the vehicle. The load is a device including an inverter for driving the motor of the vehicle, which is driven using the power stored in the battery pack. The charger is a device for supplying power to charge the battery pack. The electrical connection unit 1 may be called, for example, an "electrical connection box" or a "junction box". However, the electrical connection unit 1 is not limited to a box-shaped device.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electrical connection unit 1 comprises a base plate 2, a plurality of first modules 3, 3c, a plurality of terminal modules 4, a plurality of busbars 5, and a fastening member 50. The base plate 2 is an example of a second rigid member. Each busbar 5 is an example of a wiring member. Each terminal module 4 is an example of a second module. The electrical connection unit 1 further comprises a cover 6 (Figure 6), which will be described later. In the electrical connection unit 1, the plurality of first modules 3, 3c, the plurality of terminal modules 4, and the plurality of busbars 5 are covered by the base plate 2 from the -Z direction and by the cover 6 from the +Z direction. That is, in the electrical connection unit 1, the plurality of first modules 3, 3c, the plurality of terminal modules 4, and the plurality of busbars 5 are housed in a housing which is a combination structure of the cover 6 and the base plate 2. Figure 1 shows the electrical connection unit 1 with the cover 6 visible through it.

[0015] <2. Configuration of the second rigid member> The base plate 2 will be described below.

[0016] The base plate 2 is a holding member that integrally holds a plurality of first modules 3, 3c and a plurality of terminal modules 4. The base plate 2 has a plate shape that extends in a planar manner in the X and Y directions. The base plate 2 is a metal product formed of, for example, metal, and has thermal conductivity. The base plate 2 is a plate-shaped member that is aligned horizontally. The base plate 2 may be made of a metal such as copper or aluminum.

[0017] The base plate 2 has a first surface 2a and a second surface 2b as a pair of front and back surfaces. The first surface 2a is a horizontal plane facing the +Z direction. The second surface 2b is a horizontal plane facing the -Z direction. The first surface 2a and the second surface 2b may be, for example, smooth planes. The base plate 2 is capable of mounting multiple components.

[0018] <3. Configuration of the First Module> The multiple first modules 3 and 3c will be described below.

[0019] The multiple first modules 3, 3c are each divided into functional units, with each module performing one of the smallest units of circuit function in the electrical connection unit 1 (such as interruption, switching, resistance, charging, sensing, conversion, etc.). The multiple first modules 3, 3c are arranged along the first surface 2a of the base plate 2. Each first module 3, 3c is positioned on the base plate 2 with its bottom surface 3b facing the first surface 2a. Each first module 3, 3c is provided on the first surface 2a side of the base plate 2. Each first module 3, 3c may, for example, be placed on the first surface 2a.

[0020] The first module 3 and the first module 3c are distinguished as follows: The first module 3 can fasten the bus bar 5 from the horizontal direction by fastening member 50 (details described later). The first module 3c is a first module that does not correspond to the first module 3. For example, the first module 3c can fasten the bus bar 5 from the Z direction by second fastening member 50c (details described later). In other words, the structure for fastening the bus bar 5 differs between the first module 3 and the first module 3c.

[0021] Among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, each of some first modules 3, 3c may have a gap between it and other first modules 3, 3c adjacent in the X direction, for example. Among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, each of some first modules 3, 3c may have a gap between it and other first modules 3, 3c adjacent in the Y direction, for example.

[0022] Each first module 3, 3c comprises an electronic component 31 and a first rigid member 32. One electronic component 31 is mounted on each first rigid member 32. That is, each of the multiple electronic components 31 provided in the electrical connection unit 1 is individually mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32. In other words, each electronic component 31 is provided on the associated first rigid member 32 (first modules 3, 3c). Each first module 3, 3c may, for example, comprise only one electronic component 31 and one first rigid member 32 corresponding to (this one electronic component 31) from the multiple electronic components 31 and multiple first rigid members 32 included in the electrical connection unit 1.

[0023] Each electronic component 31 is an electronic component mounted in accordance with the function required of the electrical connection unit 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, each electronic component 31 may be fixed to the corresponding first rigid member 32 by fastening to the corresponding first rigid member 32, for example. The electronic components 31 include fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), resistors (pre-charge resistors, etc.), capacitors, various sensors (e.g., current sensors or voltage sensors), ferrite cores, etc. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, each electronic component 31 may be provided with, for example, a pair of component terminals 39.

[0024] The first rigid member 32 is fixed to the base plate 2. The first rigid member 32 may be bonded to the base plate 2, for example. The first rigid member 32 may have, for example, a first bonding surface 32b. The first bonding surface 32b is a plane facing the -Z direction. The first bonding surface 32b corresponds to the bottom surface 3b of the first modules 3, 3c. The first bonding surface 32b may be bonded to the first surface 2a, for example, by adhesive, thermocompression bonding, laser welding, etc., so that the first rigid member 32 is bonded to the base plate 2.

[0025] The first rigid member 32 comprises a pair of first flanges 33, a housing portion 34, and a plurality of first reinforcing ribs 37. The first rigid member 32 is an integrally molded product in which the pair of first flanges 33, the housing portion 34, and the plurality of first reinforcing ribs 37 are all integrated. The first rigid member 32 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin.

[0026] The housing section 34 comprises a peripheral wall 35 and a bottom 36. The peripheral wall 35 protrudes upright from the bottom 36 in the +Z direction. The peripheral wall 35 may have a plurality of notches 35n cut out in the -Z direction from the +Z side edge 35t in a portion of the periphery of the electronic component 31.

[0027] The housing section 34 has a housing space 34s that houses at least a portion of the electronic components 31. The housing space 34s is a space defined by the contour of the inner surface of the peripheral wall 35 and the surface of the bottom 36 facing the +Z direction. The housing space 34s may, for example, have a roughly rectangular parallelepiped contour.

[0028] The pair of first flanges 33 extend from the -Z direction end of the housing portion 34 to both ends in one horizontal direction. The surface of the bottom 36 facing the -Z direction and the surfaces of the pair of first flanges 33 facing the -Z direction may, for example, be flush with each other, thereby forming the first bonding surface 32b as a whole.

[0029] Multiple first reinforcing ribs 37 support the peripheral wall 35 from its outer circumference. Each first reinforcing rib 37 may be a triangular rib fitted into the corner (concave angle) between the peripheral wall 35 and each first flange 33.

[0030] The multiple first modules 3, 3c may include, for example, a relay module 3R. In this case, as shown in Figure 3, the relay module 3R includes a relay 31R as an electronic component 31.

[0031] In the relay module 3R, at least one of the multiple notches 35n in the peripheral wall 35 is cut out such that a pair of component terminals 39 are exposed from between the peripheral wall 35 toward the outside of the first rigid member 32. That is, in the relay module 3R, at least one of the multiple notches 35n in the peripheral wall 35 may be cut out such that a busbar 5 connected to the component terminals 39 can pass through the notch 35n between the inside and outside of the first rigid member 32.

[0032] In each relay module 3R, for example, a pair of component terminals 39 of the electronic component 31 may face outward from the electrical connection unit 1 via the cover 6. In each relay module 3R, for example, the electronic component 31 may be arranged such that one or both of the pair of component terminals 39 of the electronic component 31 face and are exposed to the inner surface of the cover 6 in the horizontal direction.

[0033] The multiple first modules 3, 3c may include, for example, a fuse module 3F. In this case, as shown in Figure 4, the fuse module 3F includes a fuse 31F as an electronic component 31.

[0034] In the fuse module 3F, at least one pair of notches 35n of the peripheral wall 35 is cut out so that a pair of component terminals 39 can protrude beyond the peripheral wall 35. The fuse module 3F may also include, for example, a pair of fixed terminals 38 that are fastened to the pair of component terminals 39. Each fixed terminal 38 is fastened to a corresponding component terminal 39.

[0035] <4. Configuration of the Second Module> The multiple terminal modules 4 will be described below.

[0036] The multiple terminal modules 4 are divided units, each of which is responsible for one of the smallest units of connection terminal function in the electrical connection unit 1. The multiple terminal modules 4 may include, for example, a terminal module 4 for connecting to external equipment. The terminal modules 4 are mounted on the base plate 2. As shown in Figure 5, each terminal module 4 includes a connection terminal 41 and a terminal block 42.

[0037] Each terminal module 4 may, for example, comprise only one connection terminal 41 and one terminal block 42 corresponding to this one connection terminal 41, out of the multiple connection terminals 41 and multiple terminal blocks 42 included in the electrical connection unit 1.

[0038] The connection terminal 41 extends from the end face 42a on the +Z side of the terminal block 42, protruding in the +Z direction. The connection terminal 41 is electrically connected to at least one of the multiple first modules 3, 3c via a bus bar 5, other terminal modules 4, etc.

[0039] The terminal block 42 comprises a main body 43, a pair of second flanges 44, and a plurality of second reinforcing ribs 45. The terminal block 42 is a single-piece molded product in which the main body 43, the pair of second flanges 44, and the plurality of second reinforcing ribs 45 are integrated. The terminal block 42 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin.

[0040] The terminal block 42 is fixed to the base plate 2. The terminal block 42 may be, for example, adhered to the base plate 2. The terminal block 42 may have, for example, a second adhesive surface 42b. The second adhesive surface 42b is a plane facing in the -Z direction. The second adhesive surface 42b corresponds to the bottom surface of the terminal block 42 that extends from the main body portion 43 to the pair of second flanges 44. The second adhesive surface 42b may be adhered to the first surface 2a by, for example, an adhesive, thermocompression bonding, laser welding, or the like, so that the connection terminal 41 is adhered to the base plate 2.

[0041] The main body portion 43 is a portion that occupies most of the terminal block 42. The end face on the +Z direction side of the main body portion 43 may correspond to, for example, the end face 42a. The main body portion 43 supports the connection terminal 41.

[0042] The pair of second flanges 44 project from both ends in one horizontal direction from the -Z direction end of the main body portion 43. The surface of the main body portion 43 facing in the -Z direction and the surfaces of the pair of second flanges 44 facing in the -Z direction may form the second adhesive surface 42b as a continuous plane, for example.

[0043] The plurality of second reinforcing ribs 45 support the main body portion 43 from the outer periphery. Each second reinforcing rib 45 may be a triangular rib that fits into the corner (concave corner) between the outer periphery 43a of the main body portion 43 and each second flange 44.

[0044] <5. Configuration of Wiring Members> A plurality of bus bars 5 will be described.

[0045] Each bus bar 5 is a wiring member (electrical connection member) for electrically connecting the first modules 3, 3c to each other, the first modules 3, 3c to the terminal module 4, or the terminal module 4 to the terminal module 4. Each bus bar 5 extends between the first modules 3, 3c, between the first module 3, 3c and the terminal module 4, or between the terminal module 4 and the terminal module 4. Each bus bar 5 is a metal product formed of metal and has conductivity. Each bus bar 5 may be composed of a metal such as copper or aluminum, for example.

[0046] At least a part of each bus bar 5 is in a plate shape. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, some of the plurality of bus bars 5 may be, for example, plates that are bent throughout.

[0047] Among the plurality of bus bars 5, some of the bus bars 5 may be forming bus bars that are bent in the horizontal plane and are bent such that the direction in which the plate surface faces continuously changes from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction (or from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction). At that time, the bus bar 5 that is a forming bus bar may be pre-formed into a shape to be routed before being combined with the first module 3, 3c or the terminal module 4.

[0048] A portion of the bus bar 5 formed in a flat plate shape is defined as an extending portion 51. That is, some of the bus bars 5 have the extending portion 51. The extending portion 51 extends along the spreading surface of the base plate 2. Also, the extending portion 51 does not include a region where the extending direction of the bus bar 5 changes. For example, the extending portion 51 is a flat plate that spreads in the X direction and the Y direction, the X direction and the Z direction, or the Y direction and the Z direction. The extending portion 51 of the embodiment is a surface whose largest main plane spreads in the vertical direction. That is, the main plane of the extending portion 51 is arranged facing the X direction or the Y direction so as to be orthogonal to the Z direction. Note that some of the plurality of bus bars 5 may be in a form that does not have the extending portion 51.

[0049] Regarding the bus bar 5 of the present embodiment, one of two adjacent bus bars 5 is defined as a first wiring member 52, and the other is defined as a second wiring member 53. The first wiring member 52 and the second wiring member 53 face each other in the horizontal direction. In the horizontal direction, a first insulating rib 80a described later is arranged between the first wiring member 52 and the second wiring member 53.

[0050] The first wiring member 52 is arranged in the +X direction and the -Y direction with respect to the first insulating rib 80a in the horizontal direction. The first wiring member 52 has a first extending portion 52a, a second extending portion 52b, and a first bending portion 52c. The first extending portion 52a and the second extending portion 52b are the extending portions 51 of the first wiring member 52.

[0051] The first extension 52a has its largest main plane extending in the Y and Z directions. Although two busbars are connected in the X direction in the first extension 52a, the entire structure with its main plane extending in the Y and Z directions constitutes the first extension 52a.

[0052] The second extension 52b has its largest main plane extending in the X and Z directions. The second extension 52b extends perpendicularly to the first extension 52a.

[0053] The first bent portion 52c is a region of the first cable member 52 where the direction of extension changes. The first bent portion 52c is curved so as to bend perpendicularly when viewed from the +Z direction. The first bent portion 52c is connected to the first extended portion 52a and the second extended portion 52b. In other words, the end of the first extended portion 52a and the end of the second extended portion 52b are connected at the first bent portion 52c.

[0054] The second cable member 53 is positioned horizontally, separated from the first cable member 52. The second cable member 53 has a third extension 53a, a fourth extension 53b, and a second bend 53c. The third extension 53a and the fourth extension 53b are extensions 51 of the second cable member 53.

[0055] The third extension 53a has its largest main plane extending in the Y and Z directions. The first extension 52a and the third extension 53a are adjacent to each other with a gap in the X direction.

[0056] The fourth extension 53b has its largest main plane extending in the X and Z directions. The fourth extension 53b extends perpendicularly to the third extension 53a. The second extension 52b and the fourth extension 53b are adjacent to each other with a gap in the Y direction. The fourth extension 53b is also connected at its -X end to a curved section 54, which is bent so that the direction in which the plate surface faces changes continuously from vertical to horizontal. The curved section 54 is also positioned opposite the first insulating rib 80a.

[0057] The second bend 53c is a region of the second cable member 53 where the direction of extension changes. The second bend 53c is curved so as to bend perpendicularly when viewed from the +Z direction. The second bend 53c is connected to the third extension 53a and the fourth extension 53b. In other words, the end of the third extension 53a and the end of the fourth extension 53b are connected at the second bend 53c. The second bend 53c is connected to the end of the fourth extension 53b that is not connected to the inflection 54.

[0058] Some of the multiple busbars 5 may branch off into multiple paths, for example, towards different routes along the way. Some of the multiple busbars 5 may be assemblies in which multiple forming busbars are connected in such a way that they branch off into multiple paths. In this case, the multiple forming busbars to be combined may be connected in advance before being combined with the first module 3, 3c or terminal module 4.

[0059] Some of the multiple busbars 5 may be flat plates having a rectangular surface oriented vertically. Some of the multiple busbars 5 may be flat plates having an L-shaped surface oriented vertically.

[0060] Of the ends of each busbar 5, the end connected to the first module 3 may be fastened to, for example, a component terminal 39. Of the ends of each busbar 5, the end connected to the terminal module 4 may be fastened to, for example, a connection terminal 41.

[0061] <6. Configuration of the fastening member> The fastening member 50 will be described below.

[0062] The fastening member 50 is a member for fastening the first module 3 (electronic component 31) and the bus bar 5. The fastening member 50 is, for example, a screw, but its shape is not limited. For example, the fastening member 50 can fix the bus bar 5 by sandwiching it between the first module 3 (electronic component 31). The fastening member 50 is also detachable from the first module 3 (electronic component 31). A pair of fastening members 50 are arranged, both facing the same direction. However, a pair of fastening members 50 may be arranged, each facing a different direction.

[0063] The fastening members 50 can fasten the first module 3 and the busbar 5 from the horizontal direction. That is, a pair of fastening members 50 are arranged facing either the X direction or the Y direction. Alternatively, a pair of fastening members 50 may be arranged facing along a virtual plane formed by the X direction and the Y direction.

[0064] As a specific example, the fastening member 50 is a screw that is fixed to the component terminal 39 of the relay module 3R as shown in Figure 3.

[0065] In the following, the direction in which the fastening member 50 moves when fastening or unfastening to the first module 3 (electronic component 31) is referred to as the attachment / detachment direction of the fastening member 50 to the electronic component 31. That is, the fastening member 50 is movable relative to the electronic component 31 in the attachment / detachment direction. Furthermore, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the first module 3 (electronic component 31) by moving in the attachment / detachment direction. Also, the busbar 5 can be fastened to the first module 3 (electronic component 31) by the fastening member 50 from the attachment / detachment direction. In this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction includes the X direction and the Y direction, and is the direction along the virtual plane formed by the X direction and the Y direction. The attachment / detachment direction is also referred to as the direction in which the component terminals face.

[0066] The second fastening member 50c is a member for fastening the first module 3 (electronic component 31) and the bus bar 5. The second fastening member 50c is a fastening member that does not fall under the category of fastening member 50. The second fastening member 50c is, for example, a nut, but its shape is not limited. For example, the second fastening member 50c can fix the bus bar 5 by sandwiching it between the first module 3 (electronic component 31). The second fastening member 50c is also detachable from the first module 3 (electronic component 31). A pair of second fastening members 50c are arranged, both facing the Z direction. In other words, the second fastening member 50c can fasten the first module 3c and the bus bar 5 from the Z direction. A specific example of the second fastening member 50c is a nut fixed to the fixing terminal 38 in the fuse module 3F as shown in Figure 4.

[0067] <7. Cover Configuration> The cover 6 will now be described. As shown in Figure 6, it is a component that can accommodate a plurality of first modules 3, 3c, a plurality of terminal modules 4, and a plurality of busbars 5 in combination with the base plate 2. That is, the cover 6 can cover the plurality of first modules 3, 3c, a plurality of terminal modules 4, and a plurality of busbars 5 from the +Z direction by sandwiching them with the base plate 2. The cover 6 is formed to form a rectangular parallelepiped when combined with the base plate 2, for example. The cover 6 is made of an insulating material. The cover 6 is a synthetic resin product made of synthetic resin, for example. The cover of this embodiment is formed in a plate shape that spreads along the horizontal direction. The cover 6 has an inner surface 61, a side surface 62, a rib portion 70, and an insulating rib 80.

[0068] The inner surface 61 extends horizontally and is the widest surface on the cover 6. Furthermore, the inner surface 61 faces the electronic components 31 (first modules 3, 3c), terminal module 4, and busbar 5 in the Z direction. That is, the inner surface 61 in this embodiment faces the -Z direction. The inner surface 61 is connected to the side surface 62 at all of its horizontal edges.

[0069] Side surface 62 extends in the -Z direction from the horizontal edge of inner surface 61. Side surface 62 is the surface facing the electronic components 31 (first module 3, 3c), terminal module 4, and bus bar 5 in the horizontal direction. Side surface 62 can contact the base plate 2 at its -Z end.

[0070] The rib portion 70 is formed to protrude from the inner surface 61 in the -Z direction. The rib portion 70 is formed so as not to come into contact with the base plate 2 or other components when the cover 6 is assembled with the base plate 2. Furthermore, for example, the -Z end of the rib portion 70 may be formed to be closer to the base plate 2 than the opposing component terminals 39, fastening members 50, and busbars 5. Also, the rib portion 70 may be formed to protrude horizontally from the side surface 62.

[0071] The rib portion 70 is formed so as to face the component terminals 39, the fastening member 50, and the bus bar 5 in the direction in which the component terminals face (details will be described later). In this embodiment, multiple rib portions 70 are formed, spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, the rib portions 70 are positioned away from the first modules 3 and 3c when viewed from the Z direction. That is, the rib portions 70 are positioned away from the component terminals 39 and the fastening member 50 in the direction in which the component terminals face. The rib portions 70 may, for example, be positioned facing all the component terminals 39 of the first module 3 (electronic component 31) in the direction in which the component terminals face.

[0072] The insulating rib 80 is formed to protrude from the inner surface 61 in the -Z direction. The end of the insulating rib 80 in the -Z direction is formed so as not to come into contact with the base plate 2 or components mounted on the first surface 2a, such as the first rigid member 32, when the cover 6 is combined with the base plate 2. For example, the end of the insulating rib 80 in the -Z direction may be formed to be closer to the base plate 2 than to the adjacent busbar 5. The insulating rib 80 may also be formed to protrude horizontally from the side surface 62.

[0073] The insulating rib 80 is a portion that can be positioned to be inserted between two adjacent busbars 5 in the horizontal direction (details will be described later). In this embodiment, multiple insulating ribs 80 are formed, spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, when the cover 6 is combined with the base plate 2 and viewed from the Z direction, the insulating rib 80 is positioned away from the electronic components 31 and the busbars 5. The insulating rib 80 may, for example, be positioned between the two busbars 5 that are closest to each other in the horizontal direction. Specifically, the insulating rib 80 may, for example, be positioned between two busbars 5 that are spaced less than or equal to the insulation distance in the horizontal direction.

[0074] <8. Positional relationship of the first module, second module, wiring members, and cover> The positional relationship of the first module 3, terminal module 4, bus bar 5, and cover 6 will be explained below.

[0075] Figure 7 shows the positional relationship between the multiple first modules 3, the terminal module 4, and the busbar 5. The base plate 2 has a movable region Pv, ​​which is a region that the fastening member 50 can move to in order to fasten or release it from the first module 3 when viewed from the +Z direction. In this embodiment, the movable region Pv is the region in which the fastening member 50 and the tool for fastening the fastening member 50 (e.g., a screwdriver) move when the fastening member 50 is fastened or released from the first module 3. That is, the movable region Pv is at least wider than the width of the fastening member 50 when viewed from the +Z direction. In addition, in this embodiment, the movable region Pv is the region between the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 and the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction. The movable region Pv is a three-dimensional region (space) in the Z direction from the base plate 2 to the area where the fastening member 50 is located.

[0076] Furthermore, the movable region Pv is not limited to the region adjacent to the outer edge of the base plate 2. The movable region Pv may be formed at a position away from the outer edge of the base plate 2, as long as a range that allows the fastening member 50 to be moved in the attachment / detachment direction is ensured.

[0077] No objects are placed in the movable region Pv. In other words, the base plate 2 has the first module 3 mounted in a position outside the movable region Pv. Furthermore, the base plate 2 has components including the first module 3 mounted in a position outside the movable region Pv. Specifically, the first module 3, 3c and terminal module 4 are not placed in the movable region Pv. In other words, the first module 3, 3c and terminal module 4 are placed in a position outside the movable region Pv. That is, the first module 3 and terminal module 4 are positioned on the base plate 2 so as to avoid the movable region Pv, ​​allowing the fastening member 50 and the device for fastening the fastening member 50 to move freely.

[0078] Due to this positional relationship, the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 is positioned so that it is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. In other words, when the electronic component 31 is viewed straight from the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction, the fastening member 50 is positioned so that there is no obstructing member between the fastening member 50 and the outer edge of the base plate 2. Furthermore, the fastening member 50 is positioned so that its entirety is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0079] Figure 8 shows the cover 6 connected to the base plate 2, illustrating the positional relationship between the rib portion 70 and the insulating rib 80. Specifically, Figure 8 shows the positional relationship between the multiple first modules 3, the terminal module 4, the bus bar 5, and the cover 6.

[0080] (Positional relationship of the ribs) The multiple ribs 70 are arranged to cover the movable region Pv in the horizontal direction. The ribs 70 are positioned opposite the component terminals 39, the fastening members 50, and the busbars 5 in the direction in which the component terminals face. That is, when viewed from the direction in which the component terminals face, the ribs 70 are positioned to block the front of the component terminals 39, the fastening members 50, and the busbars 5.

[0081] Figure 9 shows a magnified view of the vicinity of one rib portion 70. Each rib portion 70 in this embodiment has a first portion 71, a second portion 72, and a connecting portion 73. The first portion 71 is the portion of the rib portion 70 that is closest to the component terminal 39, the fastening member 50, and the busbar 5. The first portion 71 has the largest surface in the horizontal direction, which intersects the direction in which the component terminal faces. That is, the first portion 71 faces and is opposite to the component terminal 39 in the direction in which the component terminal faces.

[0082] The second portion 72 extends, for example, parallel to the first portion 71. In other words, the largest surface of the second portion 72 is parallel to the largest surface of the first portion 71. The second portion 72 is positioned further away from the component terminals 39, the fastening member 50, and the busbar 5 than the first portion 71 in the direction in which the component terminals face. The second portion 72 is also positioned further away from the first portion 71. Furthermore, in the direction in which the component terminals face, the distance between the fastening member 50 and the first portion 71 may be narrower than the distance between the first portion 71 and the second portion 72.

[0083] The connecting portion 73 connects the first portion 71 and the second portion 72 in the direction in which the component terminals face. Multiple connecting portions 73 may be formed, spaced apart from each other. In this embodiment, the horizontal ends of the first portion 71 and the second portion 72 are covered by multiple connecting portions 73. In this way, a space is formed between the first portion 71 and the second portion by the first portion 71, the second portion 72, and the connecting portion 73. The space formed by the first portion 71, the second portion 72, and the connecting portion 73 is covered from the +Z direction by the inner surface 61. In addition, the space between the component terminals 39 and the rib portion 70 in the direction in which the component terminals face (i.e., the space on the moving region Pv) is also covered from the +Z direction by the inner surface 61.

[0084] Furthermore, the portion having a surface parallel to the first portion 71 and the second portion 72 may be positioned further away from the component terminals 39, fastening member 50, and busbar 5 than the first portion 71 and the second portion 72, in the direction in which the component terminals face. Also, the connecting portion 73 is not limited to connecting only the first portion 71 and the second portion 72. For example, the connecting portion 73 may also connect the second portion 72 and the side surface 62.

[0085] (Positional relationship of insulating ribs) The multiple insulating ribs 80 are arranged to be inserted into adjacent busbars 5 in at least one of the X and Y directions. One of the multiple insulating ribs 80, which is located between the first cable member 52 and the second cable member 53, is referred to as the first insulating rib 80a. In this embodiment, the first insulating rib 80a will be used as an example to describe the insulating ribs 80.

[0086] The first insulating rib 80a is positioned to be inserted between the extended portions 51 (first extended portion 52a, second extended portion 52b, third extended portion 53a, and fourth extended portion 53b) of the first cable member 52 and the second cable member 53.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first cable member 52 is positioned horizontally in the +X and -Y directions relative to the first insulating rib 80a. Specifically, the first extension portion 52a is positioned spaced apart from the first insulating rib 80a in the +X direction. The first extension portion 52a faces the first insulating rib 80a so as to face it in the X direction. Furthermore, the second extension portion 52b is positioned spaced apart from the first insulating rib 80a in the -Y direction. The second extension portion 52b faces the first insulating rib 80a so as to face it in the Y direction.

[0088] Furthermore, the second wiring member 53 is positioned horizontally in the -X and +Y directions relative to the first insulating rib 80a. Specifically, the third extension portion 53a is positioned spaced apart from the first insulating rib 80a in the -X direction. The third extension portion 53a faces the first insulating rib 80a so as to face it in the X direction. In addition, the fourth extension portion 53b is positioned spaced apart from the first insulating rib 80a in the +Y direction. The fourth extension portion 53b faces the first insulating rib 80a so as to face it in the Y direction.

[0089] Here, the direction in which the first cable member 52, the first insulating rib 80a, and the second cable member 53 are aligned is defined as the opposing direction. That is, in this embodiment, the opposing direction is the X direction or the Y direction, which is the direction in which the first cable member 52 and the second cable member 53 are aligned.

[0090] Figures 10 and 11 show enlarged views of the vicinity of the first insulating rib 80a. The first insulating rib 80a has a first wall portion 81, a second wall portion 82, and a second connecting portion 83.

[0091] The first wall portion 81 is the portion of the first insulating rib 80a that is facing the first cable member 52 in the opposing direction. The first wall portion 81 has a first Y wall portion 81a extending in the Y direction and a first X wall portion 81b extending in the X direction. The first Y wall portion 81a extends along the first extension portion 52a and the third extension portion 53a. The first X wall portion 81b extends along the second extension portion 52b and the fourth extension portion 53b. The -Y end of the first Y wall portion 81a is connected to the +X end of the first X wall portion 81b.

[0092] The second wall portion 82 is the portion of the first insulating rib 80a that is facing the second cable member 53 in the opposing direction. The second wall portion 82 has a second Y wall portion 82a extending in the Y direction and a second X wall portion 82b extending in the X direction. The second Y wall portion 82a extends along the first Y wall portion 81a, the first extension portion 52a, and the third extension portion 53a. The second X wall portion 82b extends along the first X wall portion 81b, the second extension portion 52b, and the fourth extension portion 53b. The -Y end of the second Y wall portion 82a is connected to the +X end of the second X wall portion 82b.

[0093] The second connecting portion 83 connects the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82 in opposing directions. Multiple second connecting portions 83 may be formed, spaced apart from each other. In this embodiment, a space is formed enclosed by the first wall portion 81, the second wall portion 82, and the multiple second connecting portions 83. In other words, a space extending in opposing directions is formed between the first wall portion 81 and the second wall portion 82. The space formed by the first wall portion 81, the second wall portion 82, and the multiple second connecting portions 83 is covered from the +Z direction by the inner surface 61. Also, the space between the busbar 5 and the insulating rib 80 in opposing directions is also covered from the +Z direction by the inner surface 61.

[0094] <8. Manufacturing Method of Electrical Connection Unit> The manufacturing method of the electrical connection unit 1 will be described below.

[0095] The manufacturer manufactures the electrical connection unit 1 by carrying out the following steps 1 through 6.

[0096] (First step) As shown in Figure 12, in the first step, the manufacturer prepares the base plate 2.

[0097] (Second Step) As shown in Figure 13, in the second step, the manufacturer attaches the multiple first rigid members 32 and the multiple terminal modules 4 to the base plate 2. The manufacturer may also bond the multiple first rigid members 32 and the multiple terminal modules 4 to the base plate 2. Furthermore, the terminal modules 4 are attached in such a way that they are not positioned in the area where the fastening member 50 moves when the fastening member 50 is fastened.

[0098] (Third Step) As shown in Figure 13, in the third step, the manufacturer mounts some of the multiple electronic components 31 to be mounted on the first rigid member 32 onto the corresponding first rigid member 32. The manufacturer may fasten and fix the electronic components 31 to each first rigid member 32. In addition, the manufacturer mounts the electronic components 31 so that they are not located in the area where the fastening member 50 moves when the fastening member 50 is fastened. As shown in Figure 14, in the third step, the manufacturer may mount, for example, a relay module 3R from the multiple electronic components 31 onto the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0099] (Fourth Step) As shown in Figure 14, in the fourth step, the manufacturer places a plurality of busbars 5 on a plurality of first modules 3, 3c and a plurality of terminal modules 4. For example, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount some of the remaining electronic components 31 to be mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32. For example, as shown in Figure 15, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount a fuse module 3F from the plurality of electronic components 31 on the corresponding first rigid member 32. Furthermore, in the fourth step, the manufacturer may mount a portion 31T of the remaining electronic components 31 to be mounted on the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0100] (Fifth Step) In the fifth step, the manufacturer fastens multiple busbars 5 to multiple first modules 3, 3c and multiple terminal modules 4 using fastening members 50 and second fastening members 50c, etc. For example, as shown in Figure 16, in the fifth step, the manufacturer may mount the remaining parts of the electronic components 31 to be mounted onto the corresponding first rigid member 32.

[0101] (Sixth step) As shown in Figure 17, in the sixth step, the manufacturer attaches a cover 6 to the assembly on which the multiple first modules 3, 3c, multiple terminal modules 4, and multiple busbars 5 are attached to the base plate 2.

[0102] <9. Advantages> According to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the cover 6 has an inner surface 61 and a rib portion 70 that protrudes from the inner surface 61 in the -Z direction. The rib portion 70 is positioned opposite the component terminal 39 in the direction that the component terminal faces. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the component terminal 39, fastening member 50, bus bar 5, etc. are covered by the rib portion 70. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of debris such as metal fragments to the component terminal 39, fastening member 50, bus bar 5, etc. from the direction that the component terminal faces.

[0103] Furthermore, the cover 6 of this embodiment has a plurality of rib portions 70 that are formed apart from each other. The plurality of rib portions 70 cover all of the component terminals 39, fastening members 50, busbars 5, etc. of the first module 3. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the adhesion of debris such as metal fragments to the component terminals 39, fastening members 50, busbars 5, etc. from the direction in which the component terminals face.

[0104] Furthermore, the rib portion 70 of this embodiment has a first portion 71, a second portion 72, and a connecting portion 73. The rib portion 70 is arranged so as to form a space with the first portion 71, the second portion 72, and the connecting portion 73. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the amount of material required to form the rib portion 70 while covering the component terminals 39, fastening members 50, busbars 5, etc. over a wide area. In other words, it is possible to suppress the increase in weight of the electrical connection unit 1 while preventing debris such as metal fragments from adhering to the component terminals 39, fastening members 50, busbars 5, etc.

[0105] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rib portion 70 is positioned away from the first module 3 when viewed from the Z direction. This arrangement prevents malfunctions from occurring due to contact between the rib portion 70 and the component terminals 39, fastening members 50, busbars 5, etc., while achieving the above-mentioned effects.

[0106] Furthermore, by making the distance between the fastening member 50 and the first portion 71 in the direction facing the component terminals narrower than the distance between the first portion 71 and the second portion 72, it is possible to further suppress the accumulation of debris on the component terminals 39, fastening member 50, busbar 5, etc.

[0107] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 is detachable from the electronic component 31 from a direction along a virtual plane formed by the X direction (first direction) and the Y direction (second direction). The base plate 2 has the first modules 3 and 3c mounted at a position outside the movable region Pv. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31 from the horizontal direction. Therefore, it is possible to configure the unit without using individually customized first modules 3. In other words, it is possible to improve the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 while using the highly versatile first module 3.

[0108] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 fixed to the electronic component 31 is positioned so that it is visible from the outside of the base plate 2 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the fastening member 50 can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31 smoothly without coming into contact with other parts. Therefore, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be further improved.

[0109] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the terminal module 4 is positioned outside the area located between the fastening member 50 and the outer edge of the base plate 2 in the attachment / detachment direction. With such an electrical connection unit 1, it is possible to improve the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 while still providing terminals for external connections.

[0110] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the fastening member 50 is a screw that can be attached to and detached from the electronic component 31. With such an electrical connection unit 1, the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved without requiring any special ingenuity in the shape of the busbar 5. In other words, a highly versatile busbar 5 can be used.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, each electronic component 31 is mounted on the base plate 2 via the first rigid member 32. With this configuration, the arrangement of multiple electronic components 31 on the base plate 2 can be freely set. With such an electrical connection unit 1, each first module 3, 3c, which is an element module at the electronic component level, can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout according to the functions required of the product. In addition, with such an electrical connection unit 1, the electronic components 31 can be flexibly arranged on the base plate 2 in response to changes or modifications to the layout, for example. Therefore, the development period can be shortened.

[0112] As a comparative example, consider an electrical connection unit in which a resin component holds multiple electronic components together. In such a comparative example, the designer needs to design the arrangement of the multiple electronic components on the resin component. When such a design is required, the arrangement of the multiple electronic components on the resin component must be designed for each electrical connection unit with different specifications. Therefore, in such a comparative example, the design of the electrical connection unit is time-consuming.

[0113] In contrast to such comparative examples, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment allows each of the first modules 3 and 3c to be freely arranged according to the functions required of the product. Therefore, as described above, the development period can be shortened.

[0114] Furthermore, in the comparative examples described above, the electrical connection unit may have a unique design for the product to which it is applied. Therefore, the comparative examples have low versatility for other products and are difficult to adapt.

[0115] In contrast to such comparative examples, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment allows each of the first modules 3 and 3c to be made of standard parts. Therefore, it has high versatility for use in other products and is easy to adapt to other products.

[0116] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, one of the electronic components used is mounted on one first rigid member 32. This configuration allows the first modules 3, 3c to be reused among multiple electrical connection units 1 with different arrangements of the first modules 3, 3c, or within an electrical connection unit 1. Therefore, the quality and reliability of the electrical connection unit 1 can be improved.

[0117] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to use standard unit modules as multiple first modules 3, 3c. Therefore, lead time and cost can be reduced.

[0118] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, existing modules can be utilized as the first modules 3 and 3c. Therefore, the time and cost required for design and manufacturing can be reduced.

[0119] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, if improvements are needed in specific first modules 3, 3c among the multiple first modules 3, 3c, efficient modifications can be made focusing on those specific first modules 3, 3c. Therefore, this can contribute to improving the efficiency of maintenance work.

[0120] Furthermore, with the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to create a layout in which, for example, multiple first modules 3, 3c are arranged on a base plate 2 of a specified size. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be configured freely, flexibly, and quickly.

[0121] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is a synthetic resin product formed from synthetic resin, which makes the electrical connection unit 1 lighter. On the other hand, because the base plate 2 is a metal part, deformation of the base plate 2 caused by the weight of the multiple first modules 3, 3c is suppressed.

[0122] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is equipped with a housing portion 34, thereby protecting the electronic component 31. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made more robust.

[0123] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the terminal module 4 is equipped with connection terminals 41, which allows for flexible adaptation to the connection specifications of the electrical connection unit 1. For example, if the connection terminals 41 for connecting to external devices are modularized as individual terminals, such as in the terminal module 4, then flexible adaptation to the specifications of external devices becomes possible.

[0124] Furthermore, in the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the first rigid member 32 is bonded to the base plate 2. With this configuration, the arrangement of each first rigid member 32 on the base plate 2 can be freely set. Therefore, the manufacturer can freely set the arrangement layout of the multiple first modules 3, 3c.

[0125] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, multiple first modules 3, 3c can be arranged on one side of the base plate 2. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made lower in profile.

[0126] Furthermore, according to the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment, the busbar 5 is fastened to the component terminal 39. This configuration reduces the number of wiring members that electrically connect the multiple first modules 3, 3c.

[0127] (Various Modifications) Next, several modifications will be described. Note that in each modification, the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the embodiment described above.

[0128] (First Modification) In the embodiments described above, the first surface 2a and the second surface 2b of the base plate 2 are smooth planes relative to each other. However, the first surface of the base plate 2 may be configured in any way as long as each first module 3 can be placed on it. As a modification, the electrical connection unit 1 may include a base plate 102 instead of the base plate 2. In the base plate 102, for example, as shown in Figure 18, the surface roughness of the first surface 102a is rougher than that of the second surface 102b by applying a minute uneven surface treatment to the first surface 102a. The second surface 102b is a smooth plane similar to the second surface 2b of the base plate 2. Due to the large surface roughness of the first surface 102a, the base plate 102 can exert a fixing anchor effect on the first module 3 and terminal module 4 on which it is placed. In this case, each first module 3 may be bonded to the first surface 102a of the base plate 102, for example, as in the embodiments described above. As a result of this effect, the first module 3 and the terminal module 4 are less likely to detach from the base plate 102. Therefore, the electrical connection unit 1 can be made more robust. As another modification, a minute uneven surface treatment may be applied only to the area of ​​the first surface 102a of the base plate 102 on which the first module 3 and the terminal module 4 are placed.

[0129] (Second Modification) In the above-described embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a base plate 2 as a second rigid member. However, the second rigid member may be configured in any way as long as multiple first modules 3 can be mounted on it. As a modification, the second rigid member may be a block, a box, or the like instead of the base plate 2.

[0130] (Third Modification) In the above embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 includes a busbar 5 as a wiring member. However, the electrical connection unit 1 may include any wiring member as long as it can be wired to a plurality of first modules 3. As a modification, the electrical connection unit 1 may include wiring as a wiring member instead of the busbar 5.

[0131] (Fourth Modification) In the above-described embodiment, the multiple first rigid members 32 are bonded to the base plate 2. However, the first rigid members 32 may be fixed in any way as long as the electronic components 31 can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout. As a modification, the multiple first rigid members 32 may be fastened to the base plate 2.

[0132] (Fifth Modification) In the above-described embodiment, the multiple terminal modules 4 are bonded to the base plate 2. However, the multiple terminal modules 4 can be fixed in any way as long as they can be arranged on the base plate 2 in a free layout. As a modification, the multiple terminal modules 4 may be fastened to the base plate 2.

[0133] Embodiments and several modifications have been described above. However, the embodiments and modifications are not limited to the examples described above. For example, embodiments and modifications may be implemented in combination with each other.

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the adhesion of dirt can be suppressed.

[0135] 1 Electrical connection unit 2 Base plate (second rigid member) 2a First surface 2b Second surface 3, 3c First module 3b Bottom surface 3F Fuse module 3R Relay module 4 Terminal module (second module) 5 Bus bar (routing member) 6 Cover 31 Electronic component 31F Fuse 31R Relay 31T Part 32 First rigid member 32b First adhesive surface 33 First flange 34 Housing section 34s Housing space 35 Peripheral wall 35n Notch 35t End edge 36 Bottom 37 First reinforcing rib 38 Fixing terminal 39 Component terminal 41 Connection terminal 42 Terminal block 42a End surface 42b Second adhesive surface 43 Main body 43a Outer circumference 44 Second flange 45 Second reinforcing rib 50 Fastening member 50c Second fastening member 51 Extending section 52 First cable member 52a First extending section 52b Second extending section 52c First bending section 53 Second cable member 53a Third extending section 53b Fourth extending section 53c Second bending section 54 Curved section 61 Inner surface 62 Side surface 70 Rib section 71 First section 72 Second section 73 Connecting section 80 Insulating rib 80a First insulating rib 81 First wall section 81a First Y wall section 81b First X wall section 82 Second wall section 82a Second Y wall section 82b Second X wall section 83 Second connecting section 102 Base plate (second rigid member) 102a First surface 102b Second surface Pv Moving area

Claims

1. An electrical connection unit comprising: a plurality of electronic components; a second rigid member on which the plurality of electronic components are mounted and which extends in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction; a routing member connecting the plurality of electronic components; a fastening member fastening the plurality of electronic components and the routing member; and a cover formed of an insulating material that covers the plurality of electronic components and the routing member so as to sandwich them with the second rigid member, wherein the fastening member is detachably attached to the component terminals of each of the plurality of electronic components from a direction along a virtual plane formed by the first direction and the second direction; the routing member is fixed to each of the electronic components by the fastening member; and the cover has an inner surface facing the plurality of electronic components and the routing member in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; and a rib portion formed to protrude from the inner surface in the third direction, wherein the rib portion is positioned facing the component terminals in the direction in which the component terminals face.

2. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the rib portions are formed in multiple locations, spaced apart from each other, and are arranged to face all of the terminals of the multiple electronic components.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rib portion has a first portion facing the component terminal in the direction toward the component terminal, a second portion positioned further away from the component terminal than the first portion in the direction toward the component terminal, and a connecting portion connecting the first portion and the second portion in the direction toward the component terminal, and the first portion, the second portion and the connecting portion are arranged to form a space between the first portion and the second portion.

4. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the plurality of electronic components is provided in a related first module, the first module is mounted on the second rigid member, and each first rigid member has a related electronic component mounted on it.

5. The electrical connection unit according to claim 4, wherein the first rigid member is made of synthetic resin and the second rigid member is made of metal.

6. The electrical connection unit according to claim 4, wherein the first rigid member is bonded to the second rigid member.

7. The electrical connection unit according to claim 4, wherein the rib portion is positioned away from the plurality of first modules when viewed from the third direction.

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