Electrical connection unit

Abstract

This electrical connection unit comprises a first wiring material, a first heat storage member, and a heat dissipation member. The first wiring material has a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction, and is fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, and is fastened together with the first wiring material by inserting the first fastening member into the second mounting hole. The heat dissipation member overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction intersecting with the first direction. Moreover, the first heat storage member is disposed so as to avoid a region between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member. The first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in a region outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction.

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. 2024-206262 filed in Japan on November 27, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] An electrical connection unit having an electronic component and a wiring material electrically connected to the electronic component is known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-037492

[0004] By the way, improvement of thermal characteristics is expected for the electrical connection unit.

[0005] One embodiment provides an electrical connection unit capable of improving thermal characteristics.

[0006] The electrical connection unit of one embodiment includes a first wiring material, a first heat storage member, and a heat dissipation member. The first wiring material has a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction and is fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, and the first fastening member is inserted into the second mounting hole to be clamped together with the first wiring material. The heat dissipation member overlaps the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction. And the first heat storage member extends toward the heat dissipation member. The first wiring material is arranged avoiding the region between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member. The first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in a region excluding the first connection target when viewed from the second direction.

[0007] According to one embodiment, improvement of thermal characteristics can be achieved.

[0008] A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the embodiment in disassembled form. A cross-sectional view along the line F4-F4 of the structure shown in Figure 1. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the first modified embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the second modified embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the third modified embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fourth modified embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fourth modified embodiment in disassembled form. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fifth modified embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fifth modified embodiment in disassembled form.

[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. 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 directly connected, not just cases where two elements to be connected are connected with another element in between. “Facing” or “overlapping” means that the virtual projections of two objects overlap when viewed from a particular direction. That is, “Facing” or “overlapping” may include cases where two objects face each other with another member or gap between them, not just cases where two objects face 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, for example, the direction from the electronic component 10 (described later) toward the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 (see Figure 1). 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 and the -Y direction are directions that intersect (for example, are orthogonal to) the X direction. The +Y direction is, for example, the direction from the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 (described later) toward the second terminal 13B (see Figure 3). 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 orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The +Z direction is the direction from the first wall 5a to the second wall 5b of the housing 5 (see Figure 1). The -Z direction is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. Hereafter, when the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction". The X direction is an example of the "first direction". The Z direction is an example of the "second direction". The Y 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> Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 of the first embodiment. 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 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. The electrical connection unit 1 has, for example, a housing 5 and a main body MU.

[0014] The housing 5 is a component that forms the outer casing of the electrical connection unit 1. The housing 5 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The housing 5 houses the main body MU. The housing 5 includes a first wall portion 5a (first portion) that covers at least a part of the main body MU from the -Z direction side, and a second wall portion 5b (second portion) that covers at least a part of the main body MU from the +Z direction side. Note that the housing 5 may be omitted.

[0015] Furthermore, the electrical connection unit 1 may have an insulating base member 6 that includes a first wall portion 5a and is open on the +Z direction side, instead of a box-shaped housing 5. The first wall portion 5a of the base member 6 may be a wall portion along the horizontal direction, or it may be a structure in which multiple ribs, each standing upright in the vertical direction, are combined. In the following description, "housing 5" may be read as "base member 6". Both the housing 5 and the base member 6 are examples of "supports" that support the electronic components 10 or busbars 30, which will be described later.

[0016] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or base member 6) is formed by a metal plate 70. The metal plate 70 is, for example, made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy, but is not limited to these. The metal plate 70 is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The metal plate 70 is, for example, exposed to the outside of the electrical connection unit 1. When viewed from the Z direction, the metal plate 70 overlaps with the first connection target (e.g., an electronic component 10) and the heat storage member 50, which will be described later. The metal plate 70 is an example of a "heat dissipation member". The metal plate 70 may also be referred to as a "metal member" or a "rigid member". Note that the term "heat dissipation member" as used in this disclosure is not limited to a metal member provided as part of the housing 5 (or base member 6). The term "heat dissipation member" as used in this disclosure may be a metal member provided separately from the housing 5 (or base member 6).

[0017] In this embodiment, the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 are thermally connected by the heat transfer member 80, which will be described later.

[0018] The main body MU is the part of the electrical connection unit 1 that performs the main function (for example, switching the electrical connection state or overcurrent protection). The main body MU may also be called a "circuit configuration". The main body MU includes, for example, one or more electronic components 10, a plurality of busbars 30 (see Figure 2), at least one or more heat storage members 50 (see Figure 2), and an insulating part 60 (see Figure 2). In this embodiment, the main body MU includes, for example, one heat storage member 50 (see Figure 2).

[0019] <2. Electronic Components> First, let's explain the electronic components 10. The electronic components 10 are electronic components that are mounted on the main unit MU according to the required functions. The electronic components 10 are, for example, connectors, fuses, relays (e.g., mechanical relays or semiconductor relays), capacitors, branching components, various sensors (e.g., current sensors or voltage sensors), electronic control units, or electronic component units that combine two or more of these into a single unit. However, the types of electronic components 10 are not limited to the above examples. The electronic components 10 are, for example, heat-generating components that generate heat when energized.

[0020] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a disassembled part of the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic component 10 has, for example, a case 11, a component body 12, a plurality of terminals 13, and a plurality of mounting parts 14 (only one is shown in Figure 3).

[0021] The case 11 is an outer casing that forms most of the external shape of the electronic component 10. The case 11 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The case 11 houses the component body 12. The case 11 and the component body 12 may be formed as a single unit.

[0022] In this embodiment, the case 11 has insulating ribs 11a that protrude horizontally (for example, in the +X direction) and extend in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are, for example, plate-shaped along the X and Z directions. The insulating ribs 11a extend, for example, along the entire length of the case 11 in the Z direction. The insulating ribs 11a are positioned between a plurality of terminals 13 (terminals 13A and 13B, described later). The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate terminals 13A and 13B. In this embodiment, a portion of the insulating ribs 11a is positioned between two heat storage members 50A and 50B, described later. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate, for example, at least a portion of the two heat storage members 50A and 50B from each other.

[0023] The main body portion 12 of the component is responsible for the main function of the electronic component 10. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a relay, the main body portion 12 includes a switching portion (e.g., a contact portion) that switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a fuse, the main body portion 12 includes a fuse that melts when an overcurrent flows. For example, if the electronic component 10 is a capacitor, the main body portion 12 includes a portion that stores electric charge.

[0024] Terminal 13 is an electrical connection part exposed to the outside of the case 11. Terminal 13 is electrically connected to the component body 12 inside the case 11. In this embodiment, the electronic component 10 includes terminals 13A and terminal 13B as a plurality of terminals 13. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the positive terminal. The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is the negative terminal. One of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "first terminal". The other of terminals 13A and terminal 13B is an example of a "second terminal".

[0025] In this embodiment, terminals 13A and 13B are provided at one end of the electronic component 10 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction). Terminals 13A and 13B are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction). Each of terminals 13A and 13B faces the horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0026] Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 41 (for example, a screw or bolt), described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 13h opens in the horizontal direction (for example, the +X direction). The inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 has a screw groove. The mounting hole 13h is a bottomed hole provided in the electronic component 10. In this disclosure, the term "mounting hole" is not limited to a hole with a screw groove, but may also be a hole without a screw groove. Furthermore, in this disclosure, if the terminal 13 is plate-shaped, the "mounting hole" may be a through hole that penetrates the terminal 13 in the thickness direction of the terminal 13.

[0027] (Mounting portion) The mounting portion 14 is a portion for fixing the electronic component 10. The mounting portion 14 is superimposed in the Z direction on a fixing portion 5f (e.g., a boss, see Figure 2) provided on the first wall portion 5a or the second wall portion 5b of the housing 5. The mounting portion 14 has a mounting hole 14h into which a fastening member 19 (e.g., a screw or bolt) is inserted. The mounting hole 14h is open in the Z direction. The mounting hole 14h is an insertion hole through which the fastening member 19 passes. The mounting portion 14 is fixed to the fixing portion 5f of the housing 5 by the fastening member 19. With this configuration, the electronic component 10 is fixed to the housing 5. Alternatively, the electronic component 10 may be fixed to the base member 6 described above.

[0028] As described above, the electronic component 10 overlaps with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. A heat transfer member 80 (heat transfer member 80B) is positioned in the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80 (heat transfer member 80B) transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when power is applied from the electronic component 10 to the metal plate 70.

[0029] <3. Busbar> Next, we will return to Figure 1 and describe the busbar 30. The busbar 30 is a wiring material that electrically connects multiple connection targets. The busbar 30 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy) and is conductive. The busbar 30 electrically connects a first connection target (first component) and a second connection target (second component). For example, the busbar 30 electrically connects an electronic component 10 to another busbar 9 in the electrical connection unit 1. The electronic component 10 is an example of a "first connection target" or "first component". The busbar 9 is an example of a "second connection target" or "second component". The busbar 30 is an example of a "wiring material". In this disclosure, "wiring material" is not limited to the busbar 30.

[0030] Furthermore, the first and second connection targets are not limited to the examples above. The first connection target is any one of the following: an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1, or a busbar for external connection. The second connection target is any one of the following: an electronic component, a connecting component, another busbar in the electrical connection unit 1, or a busbar for external connection. For example, busbar 30 may electrically connect an electronic component 10 (first connection target) to another electronic component 10 (second connection target). Busbar 30 may electrically connect a connecting component (first connection target) to another connecting component (second connection target). In this disclosure, "connecting component" means a component that is placed between the busbar and the connection target (e.g., an electronic component or another busbar) and connects the busbar and the connection target.

[0031] In the following, as an example of a busbar 30, a busbar 30 that electrically connects an electronic component 10 (first connection target) and another busbar 9 (second connection target) in the electrical connection unit 1 will be described. However, in the following description, the terms "electronic component 10" and "busbar 9" may be appropriately replaced with other components based on the above-mentioned purpose.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the busbar 30 has, for example, a first connecting portion 31, a second connecting portion 32, and an extension portion 33. In this embodiment, the entire busbar 30, including the first connecting portion 31, the second connecting portion 32, and the extension portion 33, is formed from a single sheet of material (for example, by bending a single sheet of material).

[0033] (First connection portion) The first connection portion 31 is the portion that is connected to the first connection target (for example, the electronic component 10). The first connection portion 31 is located in the middle of the bus bar 30 or at the first end of the bus bar 30. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 31 is arranged in an upright position in the Z direction. The first connection portion 31 is a plate portion that is aligned with the Y and Z directions. The first connection portion 31 is adjacent to the electronic component 10 in the X direction. When viewed from the X direction, the first connection portion 31 includes a portion that overlaps with the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10. In another view, when viewed from the X direction, the first connection portion 31 includes a portion that overlaps with the fastening member 41 inserted into the terminal 13 or the washer 42 through which the fastening member 41 passes.

[0034] The first connecting portion 31 has a mounting hole 31h into which a fastening member 41 is inserted. The mounting hole 31h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 31h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the first connecting portion 31 in the X direction. The mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 faces the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The fastening member 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 along the X direction. The fastening member 41 passed through the mounting hole 31h of the first connecting portion 31 engages with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. With this configuration, the first connecting portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 are physically and electrically connected.

[0035] (Second connection portion) The second connection portion 32 is the portion that is connected to a second connection target (for example, another bus bar 9). The second connection portion 32 is located in the middle of the bus bar 30 or at the second end of the bus bar 30. In this embodiment, the second connection portion 32 is parallel to the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5. The second connection portion 32 is a plate portion that is aligned with the X and Y directions. The second connection portion 32 overlaps with the end of the bus bar 9 in the Z direction. When viewed from the Z direction, the second connection portion 32 includes a portion that overlaps with the fastening member 45 or the washer 46 through which the fastening member 45 passes, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the bus bar 9 has a mounting hole 9h through which the fastening member 45 is inserted. The mounting hole 9h does not have screw threads, for example.

[0036] The second connecting portion 32 has a mounting hole 32h into which a fastening member 45 is inserted. The mounting hole 32h does not have, for example, a screw thread. The mounting hole 32h is, for example, a through hole that penetrates the second connecting portion 32 in the Z direction. The mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 faces the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9 in the Z direction. The fastening member 45 is inserted along the Z direction into the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 and the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9. An engaging member 47 (for example, a nut) is engaged with the tip of the fastening member 45 that has passed through the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 and the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9. With this configuration, the second connecting portion 32 of the busbar 30 and another busbar 9 are physically and electrically connected.

[0037] Alternatively, instead of the above example, either the mounting hole 32h of the second connecting portion 32 or the mounting hole 9h of the busbar 9 may have a screw groove so that the fastening member 45 can engage with it. In this case, the engaging member 47 may be omitted.

[0038] (Extended section) The extended section 33 is provided between the first connecting section 31 and the second connecting section 32. The extended section 33 extends from the first connecting section 31 toward the second connecting section 32. The extended section 33 extends across the first connecting section 31 and the second connecting section 32. The extended section 33 connects the first connecting section 31 and the second connecting section 32.

[0039] The extension portion 33 of the busbar 30 shown in Figure 1 includes a first extension portion 33a and a second extension portion 33b. The extension portion 33 in this embodiment further includes a third extension portion 33c and a fourth extension portion 33d.

[0040] The first extension portion 33a extends from the first connecting portion 31 along a plane intersecting in the Z direction. The second extension portion 33b extends continuously from the first extension portion 33a and extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the X direction or in the Y direction.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first extension portion 33a extends, for example, from the first connecting portion 31 in the +Z direction. The second extension portion 33b extends, for example, from the first extension portion 33a along the horizontal direction in the -X direction. The third extension portion 33c extends, for example, from the second extension portion 33b in the -Z direction. The fourth extension portion 33d extends, for example, from the third extension portion 33c along the horizontal direction in the -X direction. Note that the shape of the extension portion 33 is not limited to the above example. For example, the extension portion 33 may have only the first extension portion 33a and extend in a straight line, or it may be bent in a more complex manner.

[0042] From another perspective, in this embodiment, the extension portion 33 extends from the first connection portion 31 in the +Z direction by the first extension portion 33a, and then extends through the space between the electronic component 10 and the second wall portion 5b of the housing 5 by the second extension portion 33b. In this case, insulation between the busbar 30 and the metal plate 70 is ensured.

[0043] Next, the arrangement of the multiple busbars 30 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the electrical connection unit 1 has multiple busbars 30, including a first busbar 30A and a second busbar 30B. In the following, when the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "busbar 30".

[0044] The first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A is adjacent to the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A is fixed to the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 by a fastening member 41 (fastening member 41A) inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A. The first bus bar 30A is an example of a "first wiring material". The mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A is an example of a "first mounting hole provided in the first connection portion of the first wiring material". The extension portion 33 of the first bus bar 30A is an example of a "first extension portion of the first wiring material". The fastening member 41A is an example of a "first fastening member".

[0045] The second bus bar 30B is adjacent to the first bus bar 30A in the Y direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B is adjacent to the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B is fixed to the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 by a fastening member 41 (fastening member 41B) inserted into the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B. The second bus bar 30B is an example of a "second wiring material". The mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B is an example of a "third mounting hole provided in the second connection portion of the second wiring material". The extension portion 33 of the second bus bar 30B is an example of a "third extension portion of the second wiring material". The fastening member 41B is an example of a "second fastening member".

[0046] <4. Heat storage member> Next, the heat storage member 50 will be described. The heat storage member 50 is a metal member attached to a wiring material (for example, bus bar 30). The heat storage member 50 is, for example, a member that stores (absorbs heat) at least a part of the heat generated by the first connection target or the second connection target, and / or at least a part of the heat generated by the wiring material itself. Instead of / in addition to the above example, the heat storage member 50 may be a member that reduces heat interference from an external device (external connection bus bar) to the electronic component 10. The heat storage member 50 is, for example, made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, but is not limited to these examples.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 3, the heat storage member 50 is arranged so as to avoid the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the heat dissipation member 70. The heat storage member 50 is thermally connected to the metal plate 70 in a region where the electronic component 10 is removed when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 extends toward the heat dissipation member 70. The heat storage member 50 is, for example, plate-shaped along the Y direction and the Z direction. Therefore, the heat storage member 50 is arranged in a posture standing in the Z direction (that is, in a state facing the first mounting hole). Each of the length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction and the width W50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Y direction is larger than the thickness T50 of the heat storage member 50 in the X direction. Also, the length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction is larger than the width W50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Y direction.

[0048] The heat storage member 50 is arranged in parallel with the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30. The heat storage member 50 is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 in the X direction. In the present embodiment, the heat storage member 50 is located on the side opposite to the electronic component 10 with respect to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30. The heat storage member 50 is attached to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30.

[0049] The heat storage member 50 has a mounting hole 50h into which the fastening member 41 is inserted. The mounting hole 50h is a through hole penetrating the heat storage member 50 in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h, for example, does not have a screw groove. The mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 in the X direction. The above-described fastening member 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 along the X direction. In the present embodiment, the fastening member 41 is passed through the mounting hole 50h of the heat storage member 50 and the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 and engages with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. The heat storage member 50 is clamped together with the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 when the fastening member 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 50h. That is, the heat storage member 50 and the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 are clamped together to the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the heat storage member 50 is arranged along the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30. The thickness T50 of the heat storage member 50 in the X direction is equal to or smaller than the thickness T31 of the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 in the X direction (see FIG. 1).

[0051] The longitudinal direction of the heat storage member 50 is the Z direction. For example, the length L50 of the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction is more than half of the thickness T10 of the electronic component 10 in the Z direction.

[0052] Next, the arrangement of the multiple heat storage members 50 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the electrical connection unit 1 has a first heat storage member 50A and a second heat storage member 50B as multiple heat storage members 50. In the following, when the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "heat storage member 50".

[0053] The first heat storage member 50A is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A in the X direction. The first heat storage member 50A is fastened together with the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A by inserting the fastening member 41A into the mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A. In other words, the first heat storage member 50A and the first connection portion 31 of the first bus bar 30A are fastened together with the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41A. The mounting hole 50h of the first heat storage member 50A is an example of a "second mounting hole".

[0054] The second heat storage member 50B is adjacent to the first heat storage member 50A in the Y direction. The second heat storage member 50B is adjacent to the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B faces the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B in the X direction. The second heat storage member 50B is fastened together with the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B by inserting the fastening member 41B into the mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B. In other words, the second heat storage member 50B and the first connection portion 31 of the second bus bar 30B are fastened together with the second terminal 13B of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41B. The mounting hole 50h of the second heat storage member 50B is an example of a "fourth mounting hole".

[0055] <5. Insulating Section> Next, the insulating section 60 will be described. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line F4-F4 of the structure shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the insulating section 60 is made of synthetic resin, for example, and has insulating properties. The insulating section 60 extends in the Z direction (see Figure 3). The insulating section 60 is connected to the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 and is positioned between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B.

[0056] In this embodiment, a portion of the heat storage member 50 is located on the +X side of the end face 11as on the +X side of the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10. The insulating portion 60 is connected to the insulating rib 11a and is a member that extends the insulating rib 11a in the +X direction. The insulating portion 60 protrudes on the +X side of the end face 50s on the +X side of the heat storage member 50.

[0057] In this embodiment, the insulating portion 60 has a groove 60g into which the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 is inserted from the X direction. The groove 60g extends in the Z direction. The insulating portion 60 is attached to the insulating rib 11a of the electronic component 10 by inserting the insulating rib 11a into the groove 60g. For example, the insulating rib 11a fits into the groove 60g.

[0058] The insulating portion 60 may be formed separately from the housing 5 (or base member 6), or it may be formed integrally with the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or base member 6). For example, the insulating portion 60 may be a rib that rises in the Z direction from the first wall portion 5a of the housing 5 (or base member 6).

[0059] In this embodiment, the width W50 of the first heat storage member 50A in the Y direction is smaller than the width W31 of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A in the Y direction. The width W50 of the second heat storage member 50B in the Y direction is smaller than the width W31 of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the distance L2 in the Y direction between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B is larger than the distance L1 in the Y direction between the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B. With this configuration, it is easier to place the insulating portion 60 in the gap g1 between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B. Note that the distance L2 in the Y direction between the first heat storage member 50A and the second heat storage member 50B may be the same as or smaller than the distance L1 in the Y direction between the first busbar 30A and the second busbar 30B.

[0060] <6. Heat Transfer Members> Next, the heat transfer members 80 will be described. The heat transfer members 80 thermally connect the metal plate 70 and the object (heat storage member 50, and / or electronic component 10). The heat transfer members 80 include heat transfer member 80A and heat transfer member 80B.

[0061] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 80A is positioned between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80A is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the electronic component 10 and the heat dissipation member 70. The heat transfer member 80A is a member for transferring heat generated by the electronic component 10 when energized, and / or heat (Joule heat) generated by the busbar 30 itself when energized, from the heat storage member 50 to the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80 is, for example, an elastic heat transfer sheet (for example, a thermally conductive silicone sheet). The heat transfer member 80 is made of a material with a higher thermal conductivity than, for example, the case 11 of the electronic component 10 or the second wall portion 5a of the housing 5. However, the heat transfer member 80 is not limited to the above example, and may be a heat transfer member made of a thermally conductive gel or other material. In this embodiment, the heat transfer member 80 is insulating. The heat transfer member 80 is provided in a position that overlaps with the heat storage member 50 in the Z direction.

[0062] As described above, in this embodiment, a heat transfer member 80B is positioned between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 80B is positioned away from the heat transfer member 80A. The heat transfer member 80B transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when power is applied from the electronic component 10 to the metal plate 70.

[0063] In this embodiment, the electronic component 10 and the busbar 30 overlap with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 also overlaps with the metal plate 70 when viewed from the Z direction. The heat storage member 50 extends closer to the metal plate 70 than, for example, the busbar 30. That is, the distance L4 (for example, the minimum distance) in the Z direction between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 is equal to or smaller than the distance L3 (for example, the minimum distance) in the Z direction between the busbar 30 and the metal plate 70 (see Figure 1). In this embodiment, distance L4 is smaller than distance L3.

[0064] <7. Advantages> As a comparative example, consider a structure in which the heat storage member 50 does not exist. In such a structure, if sufficient heat capacity is not secured within the electrical connection unit, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. For example, when a transient large current flows, a large temperature rise may occur in a part of the electrical connection unit, and / or thermal interference with the first or second connection target may increase. For this reason, it may become difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0065] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment comprises a first cable guide (for example, a first busbar 30A), a first heat storage member (for example, a first heat storage member 50A), and a heat dissipation member 70. The first cable guide has a first mounting hole (for example, a mounting hole 31h) that penetrates in a first direction (for example, the X direction), and is fixed to a first connection target (for example, an electronic component 10) by a first fastening member (for example, a fastening member 41A) inserted into the first mounting hole. The first heat storage member has a second mounting hole (for example, a mounting hole 50h) that faces the first mounting hole, and is fastened together with the first cable guide by inserting the first fastening member into the second mounting hole. The heat dissipation member 70 overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member when viewed from a second direction (for example, the Z direction) that intersects the first direction. Furthermore, the first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. When viewed from the second direction, the first heat storage member is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member 70 in a region that is outside the first connection target.

[0066] With this configuration, the heat storage capacity near the first connection portion is enhanced by the first heat storage member. Compared to the configuration of the comparative example above, it is possible to suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit and / or to suppress increased thermal interference with the first connection target or the second connection target. For example, with the above configuration, when a transient large current flows, it is possible to suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit and / or to suppress increased thermal interference with the first connection target or the second connection target. This configuration makes it possible to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. This makes it less likely for the heat released from the first connection target via the first heat storage member to accumulate in region g2.

[0068] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further includes a first heat transfer member (heat transfer member 80A) positioned between the first heat storage member and the heat dissipation member 70 in the second direction. The first heat transfer member is positioned to avoid the region g2 between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transferred from the first connection target or busbar 30 to the first heat storage member can be released from the first heat storage member to the heat dissipation member 70. This improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first heat storage member is in contact with the first heat transfer member in a region that is outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction. With this configuration, the heat released from the first connection target via the first heat storage member is less likely to accumulate in region g2.

[0070] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 further includes a second heat transfer member (heat transfer member 80B) positioned between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member 70. The first heat transfer member is positioned away from the second heat transfer member. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transferred from the first connection target to the first heat storage member can be released from the second heat transfer member to the heat dissipation member 70. This improves the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first heat storage member is located on the opposite side of the first connection portion from the first connection target. With this configuration, for example, the length of the second extension portion 33b, which is routed horizontally in the extension portion 33, can be shortened. Since the routing path in the extension portion 33 is less likely to become enlarged, the bus bar 30 is less likely to become enlarged.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first cable member includes a second extension (for example, a second extension 33b) that extends continuously from the first extension. The second extension extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the first direction or in a third direction (for example, the Y direction). The third direction intersects the first and second directions. With this configuration, it is difficult to position the busbar 30 between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70. Therefore, the distance between the electronic component 10 and the metal plate 70 can be reduced, and the distance between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 can also be reduced. Reducing the distance between the heat storage member 50 and the metal plate 70 makes it easier for heat to transfer from the heat storage member 50 to the metal plate 70. This action can further improve the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first connection target is an electronic component (e.g., electronic component 10) including a first terminal (e.g., terminal 13A) and a second terminal (e.g., terminal 13B). The first wiring material and the first heat storage member are fastened together to the first terminal. With this configuration, a portion of the heat generated from the electronic component can be effectively transferred to the first heat storage member through the first terminal. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0074] In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit further comprises a second cable guide (e.g., a second busbar 30B), a second heat storage member (e.g., a second heat storage member 50B), and an insulating part (e.g., an insulating part 60). The second cable guide has a second mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 31h) and is fixed to a second terminal (e.g., a terminal 13B) by a second fastening member (e.g., a fastening member 41B) inserted into the second mounting hole. The second heat storage member has a fourth mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 50h) facing the third mounting hole, and is fastened together with the second cable guide by inserting the second fastening member into the fourth mounting hole. The insulating part is connected to an insulating rib (e.g., an insulating rib 11a) of the electronic component and is positioned between the first heat storage member and the second heat storage member. With this configuration, the insulating properties between the two heat storage members 50 can be more reliably ensured by the insulating part. In other words, by providing the above-mentioned insulating portion, it is possible to increase the size of the two heat storage members 50 while ensuring insulation between them.

[0075] <8. Modifications> Next, some modifications of the first embodiment will be described. Note that in each modification, the configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0076] <8.1 First Modification> Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the first modification. In this modification, the first cable member may further have an extension 34. The extension 34 abuts the heat transfer member 80A in an area away from the electronic component 10 when viewed from the Z direction. In this modification, the extension 34 extends from the first connection part 31 toward the heat dissipation member 70 in the -Z direction. With this configuration, a portion of the heat transmitted from the first connection target or busbar 30 can be released from the first heat storage member and busbar 30 to the heat dissipation member 70. This makes it possible to further improve the heat dissipation performance of the electrical connection unit.

[0077] <8.2 Second Modification> Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the second modification. In this modification, multiple sets of heat storage members 50 are arranged. Because the heat storage members 50 in this disclosure are plate-shaped, it is easy to arrange multiple sets of them. With this configuration, by arranging multiple sets of heat storage members 50, it is easy to obtain the desired heat storage capacity near the first connection portion (for example, the first connection portion 31).

[0078] Furthermore, as disclosed above, when the thickness T50 in the X direction of the heat storage member 50 is smaller than the thickness T31 in the X direction of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30, a decrease in the axial force of the fastening member 41 is more easily avoided. Therefore, it is easier to arrange multiple sets of heat storage members 50.

[0079] <8.3 Third Modification> Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the third modification. In this modification, the heat storage member 50 is positioned in the X direction between the terminal 13 of the electronic component 10 and the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30. This configuration also enhances the heat storage capacity of the electrical connection unit and improves the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0080] In this modified example, the first cable member may further include the extension portion 34 described in the first modified example.

[0081] <8.4 Fourth Modification> Figures 8 and 9 show a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the fourth modification. In this modification, the first cable member (for example, the bus bar 30) may have a through portion 35. The through portion 35 is an opening or notch provided in the first cable member. In this modification, the through portion 35 penetrates the first cable member in the X direction from the first extension portion to the first connection portion. An engaging portion 55 is inserted into and engages with the through portion 35.

[0082] In this modified example, the heat storage member 50 may have an engaging portion 55. The engaging portion 55 is a protruding portion formed by partially bending the end of the heat storage member 50 so that it protrudes in the -X direction. The engaging portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the bus bar 30 from the X direction (for example, from the +X direction side). When the engaging portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the bus bar 30, the rotation of the heat storage member 50 relative to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 is restricted. With this configuration, the rotation of the heat storage member 50 is suppressed when the fastening member 41 is fastened, and the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit 1 is improved.

[0083] <8.5 Fifth Modification> Figures 10 and 11 show another example of the fourth modification described above. In this disclosure, the first extension (for example, the first extension 33a) extends from the first connection (for example, the first connection 31) along a plane intersecting the first direction. At this time, the second extension 33b, which extends continuously from the first extension 33a, extends in a direction away from the heat dissipation member 70 in the first direction or in the third direction (for example, the Y direction). Therefore, the first extension (for example, the first extension 33a) and the second extension 33b can be routed in a state where they intersect with respect to the horizontal plane. That is, the first routing member (for example, the busbar 30) may be routed, for example, along the side circumferential surface of the case 11. With such a configuration, it is easy to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit.

[0084] According to one embodiment, it is possible to improve the thermal properties.

[0085] 1...Electrical connection unit 10...Electronic component (first connection target) 13...Terminal 13A...First terminal 13B...Second terminal 13h...Mounting hole 30...Bus bar (wire routing material) 30A...First bus bar (first wire routing material) 30B...Second bus bar (second wire routing material) 31...First connection part 31h...Mounting hole 33...Extended part 33a...First extended part 33b...Second extended part 33c...Third extended part 33d...Fourth extended part 34...Extension part 35...Penetration part 41...Fastening member 41A...Fastening member (first fastening member) 41B...Fastening member (second fastening member) 50...Heat storage member 50h...Mounting hole 55...Engaging part 70...Metal plate 80...Heat transfer member

Claims

1. An electrical connection unit comprising: a first cable member having a first mounting hole penetrating in a first direction and fixed to a first connection target by a first fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole; a first heat storage member having a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole and fastened together with the first cable member by the first fastening member being inserted into the second mounting hole; and a heat dissipation member that, when viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction, overlaps with the first connection target and the first heat storage member, wherein the first heat storage member is positioned to avoid the area between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member, and is thermally connected to the heat dissipation member in an area that is outside the first connection target when viewed from the second direction.

2. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, further comprising a first heat transfer member disposed between the first heat storage member and the heat dissipation member, wherein the first heat transfer member is disposed so as to avoid the area between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2, wherein the first heat storage member is in contact with the first heat transfer member in an area that is detached from the first connection target when viewed from the second direction.

4. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a second heat transfer member disposed between the first connection target and the heat dissipation member, wherein the first heat transfer member is disposed away from the second heat transfer member.

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