Electrical connection unit

Abstract

This electrical connection unit includes a wiring material (30) and a metal member (50). The wiring member (30) has a first attachment hole (31h) and is fixed to a connection target (10) by a fastening member (41) inserted into the first attachment hole (31h). The metal member (50) has a second attachment hole (50h) that faces the first attachment hole (31h), and is fastened together with the wiring material (30) by the fastening member (41) being inserted into the second attachment hole (50h).

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. 2024-206031, 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 Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-037492

[0004] By the way, improvement in 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 has a wiring material and a metal member. The wiring material has a first mounting hole and is fixed to a connection target by a fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole. The metal member has a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole, and the fastening member is inserted into the second mounting hole to be clamped together with the wiring material.

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

[0008] A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the first embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the first embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the first embodiment in disassembled form. A cross-sectional view along the line F4-F4 of the structure shown in Figure 2. A cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the first modified example of the first embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the second modified example of the first embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the second embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the third embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the third embodiment in disassembled form. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the fourth embodiment. A perspective view showing the electrical connection unit of the fourth embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fourth embodiment in disassembled form. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of the second modified example of the fourth embodiment. A perspective view showing the electrical connection unit of the fifth embodiment. A perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit of the fifth embodiment in disassembled form. A cross-sectional view along the line F16-F16 of the structure shown in Figure 14. A perspective view showing the electrical connection unit of the fifth modified example of the fifth embodiment. A perspective view showing a disassembled portion of the electrical connection unit of a modified example of the fifth embodiment. A cross-sectional view along the line F19-F19 of the structure shown in Figure 17. A cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit of a modified example of the sixth embodiment.

[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".

[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] (A. First Embodiment) <A1. Configuration of the Electrical Connection Unit> Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the 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, instead of the box-shaped housing 5, 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. 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 standing upright in the vertical direction are combined. Furthermore, instead of the box-shaped housing 5, the electrical connection unit 1 may have an insulating base member 7 that includes a second wall portion 5b and is open on the -Z direction side. The second wall portion 5b of the base member 7 may be a wall portion along the horizontal direction, or it may be a structure in which multiple ribs standing upright in the vertical direction are combined. In the following description, "housing 5" may be read as "base member 6" or "base member 7". Housing 5, base member 6, and base member 7 are each examples of "supports" that support the electronic components 10 or busbars 30, which will be described later.

[0016] 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 referred to as a "circuit configuration". The main body MU includes, for example, one or more electronic components 10, a plurality of busbars 30 (see Figure 2), and a plurality of metal members 50 (see Figure 2).

[0017] <A2. 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.

[0018] 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 includes, 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 Figures 2 and 3).

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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 metal members 50A and 50B, described later. The insulating ribs 11a electrically insulate, for example, at least a portion of the two metal members 50A and 50B from each other.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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".

[0023] 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).

[0024] Each terminal 13 has a mounting hole 13h into which a fastening member 41 (e.g., a screw or bolt), described later, is inserted. The mounting hole 13h opens horizontally (e.g., in the +X direction). In this embodiment, the fastening member 41 is inserted into the mounting hole 13h from the X direction (e.g., from the +X direction side). 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, and may also be a hole without a screw groove.

[0025] (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 a through 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 or base member 7 described above.

[0026] <A3. Busbar> Next, we will return to Figure 1 and explain 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 the "first connection target" or "first component". The busbar 9 is an example of the "second connection target" or "second component". The busbar 30 is an example of a "wiring material". In this disclosure, the term "wiring material" is not limited to the busbar 30. Connection components 90 (see Figure 20), which will be described later, are also examples of "wiring materials". In this disclosure, "connecting component" means a component that is placed between a cable (e.g., a busbar) and an object to be connected (e.g., an electronic component or another busbar) and connects the cable (e.g., a busbar) and the object to be connected.

[0027] 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 connection 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 connection 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 connection component (first connection target) to another connection component (second connection target).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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).

[0030] (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 faces 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. The first connection portion 31 is an example of the "first portion".

[0031] The first connecting portion 31 has a mounting hole 31h into which a fastening member 41 is inserted from the X direction (for example, from the +X direction). 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.

[0032] In this embodiment, the lower end of the first connecting portion 31 has a through portion 35. The through portion 35 is an opening or notch provided in the first connecting portion 31. The through portion 35 penetrates the first connecting portion 31 in the X direction. The engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50, which will be described later, is inserted into and engages with the through portion 35. This will be described in detail later.

[0033] (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.

[0034] The second connecting portion 32 has a mounting hole 32h into which a fastening member 45 (e.g., a screw or bolt) 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 (e.g., 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. This configuration connects the second connecting portion 32 of the busbar 30 to another busbar 9 both physically and electrically.

[0035] 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.

[0036] (Extended portion) The extended portion 33 is provided between the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. The extended portion 33 extends from the first connecting portion 31 toward the second connecting portion 32. The extended portion 33 extends across the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. The extended portion 33 connects the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. In this embodiment, the extended portion 33 bends in the -X direction from the -Z direction end (lower end) of the first connecting portion 31 and extends along the X direction. The extended portion 33 is an example of the "second portion".

[0037] 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".

[0038] The first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 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 busbar 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 busbar 30A. The first busbar 30A is an example of "routing material" and "first routing material". The mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A is an example of "first mounting hole". The fastening member 41A is an example of "fastening member" and "first fastening member".

[0039] The second busbar 30B is adjacent to the first busbar 30A in the Y direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 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 busbar 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 busbar 30B. The second busbar 30B is an example of the "second cable routing member". The fastening member 41B is an example of the "second fastening member".

[0040] <A4. Metal Members> Next, the metal member 50 will be described. The metal member 50 is a metal member attached to the cable routing material (e.g., bus bar 30). The metal member 50 is a member that stores (absorbs) heat, for example, at least a portion of the heat emitted by the first connection target or the second connection target, and / or at least a portion of the heat emitted by the cable routing material (e.g., bus bar 30) itself. In addition to the above example, the metal member 50 may also be a member that reduces thermal interference from external equipment (external connection bus bar) to the electronic component 10. The metal member 50 is made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy, for example, but is not limited to these examples.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the metal member 50 has, for example, a base portion 51, a first extended portion (first bent portion) 52, a second extended portion (second bent portion) 53, and an engaging portion 55. Note that either the first extended portion 52 or the second extended portion 53 may be omitted. Also, the engaging portion 55 may be omitted.

[0042] (Base) The base 51 is positioned on the +X side relative to the electronic component 10. The base 51 is positioned upright in the Z direction. The base 51 is a plate portion that extends along the Y and Z directions. The base 51 overlaps with the electronic component 10 in the X direction. The base 51 is an example of the "first plate portion".

[0043] The base portion 51 is positioned parallel to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30. The base portion 51 faces the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 from the X direction. In this embodiment, the base portion 51 is located on the opposite side of the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 from the electronic component 10. Alternatively, the base portion 51 may be positioned between the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 and the electronic component 10.

[0044] The base portion 51 has a mounting hole 50h into which the fastening member 41 is inserted from the X direction (for example, from the +X direction side). The mounting hole 50h is a through-hole that penetrates the base portion 51 in the X direction. The mounting hole 50h, for example, does not have a thread groove. The mounting hole 50h of the base portion 51 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 base portion 51 along the X direction. In the present embodiment, the fastening member 41 is passed through the mounting hole 50h of the base portion 51 and the mounting hole 31h of the first connection portion 31 and engages with the mounting hole 13h of the electronic component 10. The base portion 51 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 base portion 51 of the metal 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.

[0045] (First extension portion) The first extension portion 52 is disposed on the +Z direction side with respect to the electronic component 10. The first extension portion 52 bends from the end portion on the +Z direction side of the base portion 51 toward the -X direction and extends in the -X direction from the base portion 51. The first extension portion 52 is a plate portion along the X direction and the Y direction. The first extension portion 52 faces the electronic component 10 from the Z direction. The first extension portion 52 is an example of the "second plate portion" or the "third plate portion". The length L52 of the first extension portion 52 in the X direction is, for example, larger than the length L41 of the fastening member 41 in the X direction (see FIG. 1). From another perspective, the length L52 of the first extension portion 52 in the X direction is, for example, at least half of the length L10 of the electronic component 10 in the X direction (see FIG. 1).

[0046] (Second Extension Portion) The second extension portion 53 is disposed on the -Y direction side or the +Y direction side with respect to the electronic component 10. The second extension portion 53 bends from the end portion on the -Y direction side or the +Y direction side of the base portion 51 toward the -X direction and extends in the -X direction from the base portion 51. For example, the second extension portion 53 of the first metal member 50A described later is disposed on the -Y direction side with respect to the electronic component 10. On the other hand, the second extension portion 53 of the second metal member 50B described later is disposed on the +Y direction side with respect to the electronic component 10. The second extension portion 53 is a plate portion along the X direction and the Z direction. The second extension portion 53 faces the electronic component 10 from the Y direction. The second extension portion 53 is an example of a "third plate portion" or a "second plate portion". The length L53 of the second extension portion 53 in the X direction is larger than, for example, the length L41 of the fastening member 41 in the X direction (see FIG. 1). From another perspective, the length L53 of the second extension portion 53 in the X direction is, for example, at least half of the length L10 of the electronic component 10 in the X direction (see FIG. 1). Note that the first extension portion 52 and the second extension portion 53 may be connected or separated.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the F4-F4 line of the structure shown in FIG. 2. In the present embodiment, the first extension portion 52 does not contact the electronic component 10. A gap S1 is provided between the first extension portion 52 and the electronic component 10. Similarly, the second extension portion 53 does not contact the electronic component 10. A gap S2 is provided between the second extension portion 53 and the electronic component 10.

[0048] (Engagement Portion) Next, returning to FIG. 3, the engagement portion 55 will be described. The engagement portion 55 is provided at the lower end portion of the base portion 51. The engagement portion 55 is a protruding portion that protrudes in the -X direction from the lower end portion of the base portion 51. The engagement 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 engagement portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the bus bar 30, the rotation of the metal member 50 with respect to the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 is restricted. According to this configuration, the rotation of the metal member 50 is suppressed when the fastening member 40 is fastened, and the assemblability of the electrical connection unit 1 is improved.

[0049] Next, the arrangement of the multiple metal members 50 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the electrical connection unit 1 has a first metal member 50A and a second metal member 50B as multiple metal members 50. In the following, when the first metal member 50A and the second metal member 50B are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "metal member 50".

[0050] The base 51 of the first metal 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 metal 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 metal 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 metal member 50A. In other words, the base 51 of the first metal 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 metal member 50A is an example of a "second mounting hole".

[0051] The second metal member 50B is adjacent to the first metal member 50A in the Y direction. The base 51 of the second metal 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 metal 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 metal 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 metal member 50B. In other words, the second metal 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.

[0052] <A6. Advantages> As a comparative example, consider a structure in which the metal 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 connection target or the 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 connection target or the second connection target may increase. For this reason, it may become difficult to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0053] On the other hand, the electrical connection unit 1 of this embodiment includes a cable guide (e.g., a busbar 30) and a metal member (e.g., a metal member 50). The cable guide has a first mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 31h) and is fixed to the object to be connected (e.g., an electronic component 10) by a fastening member (e.g., a fastening member 41) inserted into the first mounting hole. The metal member has a second mounting hole (e.g., a mounting hole 50h) facing the first mounting hole, and the fastening member is inserted into the second mounting hole to fasten together with the cable guide. With this configuration, the heat storage capacity near the connection portion of the cable guide is increased by the metal member. With this configuration, 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 large thermal interference with the first or second object to be connected. For example, the above configuration can suppress a large temperature rise in a part of the electrical connection unit when a transient large current flows, and / or suppress large thermal interference with the first or second connection target. This configuration can improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0054] In this embodiment, the metal member has a first plate portion (e.g., base portion 51) having the second mounting hole and facing the connection target from a first direction (e.g., X direction), and a second plate portion (e.g., first extended portion 52 or second extended portion 53) facing the connection target from a second direction different from the first direction (e.g., Z direction or Y direction). With this configuration, the heat capacity of the metal member is increased by the second plate portion, and the heat dissipation area of ​​the metal member is expanded. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics (e.g., heat storage and / or heat dissipation) of the electrical connection unit.

[0055] In this embodiment, the metal member further has a third plate portion (for example, a second extended portion 53 or a first extended portion 52) that faces the connection target from a third direction (for example, the Y direction or Z direction) different from the first and second directions. With this configuration, the heat capacity of the metal member is further increased by the third plate portion, and the heat dissipation area of ​​the metal member is further expanded. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0056] <A7. Modifications> Next, several 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.

[0057] <A7.1 First Modification> Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, a heat transfer member 60 is provided between the metal member 50 and the electronic component 10.

[0058] The heat transfer members 60 (heat transfer members 60A, 60B) are members for transferring the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when power is applied from the electronic component 10 to the metal member 50. The heat transfer members 60 are, for example, elastic heat transfer sheets (for example, thermally conductive silicone sheets). The heat transfer members 60 are 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 5b of the housing 5. However, the heat transfer members 60 are not limited to the above example and may be heat transfer members made of thermally conductive gel or other materials. In this embodiment, the heat transfer members 60 are insulating.

[0059] In this modified example, the electrical connection unit 1 has a plurality of heat transfer members 60, namely heat transfer member 60A and heat transfer member 60B. Heat transfer member 60A is positioned in the Z direction between the first extended portion 52 of the metal member 50 and the electronic component 10. Heat transfer member 60A transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 to the first extended portion 52 of the metal member 50. On the other hand, heat transfer member 60B is positioned in the Y direction between the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50 and the electronic component 10. Heat transfer member 60B transfers the heat generated by the electronic component 10 to the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50.

[0060] With this configuration, the heat generated by the electronic component 10 can be efficiently transferred to the first extended portion 52 or the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50. This makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0061] <A7.2 Second Modification> Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 of a second modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, at least a portion of the second wall portion 5b of the housing 5 is formed by a metal plate 70. The metal plate 70 is made of, for example, aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper, or copper alloy, but is not limited to these. The metal plate 70 is a plate portion that extends horizontally. The metal plate 70 is exposed to the outside of the electrical connection unit 1, for example. When viewed from the Z direction, the metal plate 70 overlaps with the metal member 50. The metal plate 70 is an example of a "heat dissipation member". The metal plate 70 may also be called a "metal member" or a "rigid member". The term "heat dissipation member" as used in this disclosure is not limited to a metal member provided as part of the housing 5, base member 6, or base member 7. The term "heat dissipation member" as used in this disclosure may be a metal member provided separately from the housing 5, base member 6, or base member 7.

[0062] In this embodiment, a heat transfer member 60 is provided between the first extended portion 52 of the metal member 50 and the metal plate 70. The heat transfer member 60 transmits the heat generated by the electronic component 10 when energized, and / or the heat (Joule heat) generated by the busbar 30 itself when energized, from the first extended portion 52 of the metal member 50 to the metal plate 70.

[0063] With this configuration, the heat generated by the electronic component 10, and / or the heat generated by the busbar 30 itself when energized, can be efficiently transferred from the first extended portion 52 of the metal member 50 to the metal plate 70. This makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0064] (B. Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a spacer 80 is provided between the first connecting portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the base portion 51 of the metal member 50. Other than what is described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0065] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 according to a second embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a spacer 80. The spacer 80 is positioned between the busbar 30 and the metal member 50 in the X direction. For example, the spacer 80 is positioned between the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the base portion 51 of the metal member 50 in the X direction. The spacer 80 forms a gap S3 between the first connection portion 31 and the base portion 51 of the metal member 50.

[0066] In this embodiment, the spacer 80 is positioned at a location corresponding to the mounting hole 50h of the metal member 50. The spacer 80 has an insertion hole 80h through which the fastening member 40 is inserted. The insertion hole 80h is a through hole that penetrates the spacer 80 in the X direction. When the fastening member 40 is inserted through the insertion hole 80h of the spacer 80, the spacer 80 becomes less likely to fall out from between the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the base portion 51 of the metal member 50.

[0067] With this configuration, compared to the case where the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the base portion 51 of the metal member 50 are in contact, the exposed area (heat dissipation area) of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 and the exposed area (heat dissipation area) of the base portion 51 of the metal member 50 that are exposed in the space inside the housing 5 can be increased. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0068] In this embodiment, one or both of the first extended portion 52 and the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50 may be omitted. Also, the through portion 35 of the busbar 30 and the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 may be omitted.

[0069] (C. Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the through portion 35 of the busbar 30 is provided at the Y-direction end of the first connection portion 31. Other than what is described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0070] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the third embodiment. Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the third embodiment in an exploded view. In this embodiment, the through-hole 35 described above is provided at the Y-direction end of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30. For example, the through-hole 35 in the first busbar 30A is provided at the -Y-direction end of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A. On the other hand, the through-hole 35 in the second busbar 30B is provided at the +Y-direction end of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 has an overhang portion 36 that extends in the Y direction. For example, the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A has an overhang portion 36 that extends in the -Y direction. The first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B has an overhang portion 36 that extends in the +Y direction. In this embodiment, the through portion 35 is provided in the overhang portion 36. The through portion 35 does not overlap with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the X direction.

[0072] In this embodiment, the base 51 of the metal member 50 has a protruding portion 56 that extends in the Y direction. For example, the base 51 of the first metal member 50A has a protruding portion 56 that extends in the -Y direction. The base 51 of the second metal member 50B has a protruding portion 56 that extends in the +Y direction. In this embodiment, the engaging portion 55 protrudes in the -X direction from the Y-direction tip of the protruding portion 56. The engaging portion 55 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the busbar 30 at a position that does not overlap with the electronic component 10 when viewed from the X direction.

[0073] Here, as a comparative example, consider a configuration in which a through-hole 35 is provided at the -Z end of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 (see Figure 1). In this comparative example configuration, it becomes necessary to secure a gap between the extended portion 33 of the busbar and the electronic component 10 for the engagement portion 55 of the metal member 50 to be inserted. In this configuration, it is difficult to place the extended portion 33 of the busbar and the electronic component 10 close together. In this configuration, it is difficult to reduce the height of the electrical connection unit.

[0074] On the other hand, if a through-hole 35 is provided at the Y-direction end of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30, it becomes less necessary to secure a large gap between the extended portion 33 of the busbar and the electronic component 10. In this structure, the distance between the extended portion 33 of the busbar and the electronic component 10 can be reduced compared to the configuration of the comparative example above (see Figure 8). With this configuration, the height of the electrical connection unit can be reduced.

[0075] In this embodiment, one or both of the first extended portion 52 and the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50 may be omitted.

[0076] (D. Fourth Embodiment) Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is more easily able to function as a heat dissipation portion. Except for the configuration described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0077] <D1. Configuration and Function> Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the fourth embodiment. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the fourth embodiment in an exploded view. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the fourth embodiment in an exploded view.

[0078] In this embodiment, the through-port 35 described above is provided at the lower end of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30, adjacent to the end in the Y direction. For example, the through-port 35 of the first busbar 30A is provided at the lower end of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A, adjacent to the end in the -Y direction. The through-port 35 of the first busbar 30A is open in the -Y direction in addition to the +X and -X directions. On the other hand, the through-port 35 of the second busbar 30B is provided at the lower end of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B, adjacent to the end in the +Y direction. The through-port 35 of the second busbar 30B is open in the +Y direction in addition to the +X and -X directions.

[0079] As shown in Figure 11, the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the busbar 30. This configuration restricts the rotation of the metal member 50 relative to the busbar 30. As shown in Figure 10, the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is positioned between the extended portion 33 of the busbar 30 and the electronic component 10 in the Z direction. The engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is an example of the "extended portion" of the metal member 50.

[0080] In this embodiment, the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 extends relatively long in the X direction. The length L55 of the engaging portion 55 in the X direction is, for example, greater than the length L41 of the fastening member 41 in the X direction (see Figure 10). From another viewpoint, the length L55 of the engaging portion 55 in the X direction is, for example, more than half of the length L10 of the electronic component 10 in the X direction (see Figure 10).

[0081] In this embodiment, the width W55 of the engaging portion 55 in the Y direction is, for example, greater than the width W35 of the through portion 35 in the Y direction (see Figure 12). In this embodiment, a portion of the engaging portion 55 protrudes to the outside of the through portion 35.

[0082] With this configuration, the large engagement portion (extended portion) of the metal member increases the heat capacity of the metal member and expands the heat dissipation area of ​​the metal member. This configuration makes it possible to further improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit. In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, one or both of the first extended portion 52 and the second extended portion 53 of the metal member 50 may be provided.

[0083] <D2. Modified Version> Next, a modified version of the fourth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration is the same as that of the fourth embodiment, except for the configuration described below.

[0084] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 of a modified version of the fourth embodiment. In this modified version, the through-hole 35 described above is provided adjacent to the Y-direction end at the upper end of the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30. For example, the through-hole 35 in the first busbar 30A is provided adjacent to the -Y-direction end at the upper end of the first connection portion 31 of the first busbar 30A. The through-hole 35 in the second busbar 30B is provided adjacent to the +Y-direction end at the upper end of the first connection portion 31 of the second busbar 30B.

[0085] The engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is inserted into the through portion 35 of the busbar 30. In this modified example, the engaging portion 55 of the metal member 50 is positioned on the opposite side of the busbar 30 from the extended portion 33 with respect to the electronic component 10.

[0086] (E. Fifth Embodiment) Next, the fifth embodiment will be described. The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a pair of support parts 37 for holding the metal member 50 are provided on the bus bar 30. Other than what is described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0087] <E1. Configuration and Function> Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of the fifth embodiment. Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the fifth embodiment in an exploded view. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 has a pair of support portions 37 instead of a through portion 35. The pair of support portions 37 protrude from the first connection portion 31 in the +X direction. The pair of support portions 37 are positioned separately on both sides of the metal member 50 in the Y direction and clamp the metal member 50 in the Y direction. The metal member 50 is fitted between the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B.

[0088] In this embodiment, the pair of support portions 37 include a first support portion 37A and a second support portion 37B. The first support portion 37A is provided at the -Y end of the first connecting portion 31. The first support portion 37A protrudes in the +X direction from the -Y end of the first connecting portion 31. The first support portion 37A extends in the Z direction. The first support portion 37A faces the metal member 50 from the -Y side. On the other hand, the second support portion 37B is provided at the +Y end of the first connecting portion 31. The second support portion 37B protrudes in the +X direction from the +Y end of the first connecting portion 31. The second support portion 37B extends in the Z direction. The second support portion 37B faces the metal member 50 from the +Y side.

[0089] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 14 along the line F16-F16. In this embodiment, the metal member 50 does not have an engaging portion 55. The metal member 50 is positioned between the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B. The metal member 50 is sandwiched from both sides in the Y direction by the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B. The metal member 50 is fitted between the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B.

[0090] In this embodiment, the process of clamping the metal member 50 between the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B is performed as part of the process of forming the first connecting portion 31 of the busbar 30 by, for example, press working. That is, the processing (e.g., bending) of the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B with respect to the first connecting portion 31 and the holding of the metal member 50 by the first support portion 37A and the second support portion 37B are performed in one step or a series of steps.

[0091] With this configuration, the metal member 50 can be temporarily fixed to the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 before the fastening member 40 is attached. This improves the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit.

[0092] <E2. Modified Forms> Next, a modified form of the fifth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration is the same as that of the fifth embodiment, except for the configuration described below.

[0093] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing a part of the electrical connection unit 1 of a modified example of the fifth embodiment. Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the electrical connection unit 1 of the modified example of the fifth embodiment disassembled. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 17 along the line F19-F19. In this embodiment, the metal member 50 has, for example, a main body portion 57 and an overhanging portion 58.

[0094] The main body portion 57 is a plate portion that runs along the Y and Z directions. The main body portion 57 has mounting holes 50h into which the fastening member 40 is inserted. The protruding portion 58 is formed to be narrower in the Y direction than the main body portion 57. The protruding portion 58 protrudes from the main body portion 57 in the -Z direction. Note that the direction of protrusion of the protruding portion 58 is not limited to the -Z direction, but may also be in the +Z direction, the -Y direction, or the +Y direction. The protruding portion 58 is a plate portion that runs along the Y and Z directions.

[0095] In this embodiment, the pair of support parts 37 are provided so as to be located on both sides in the Y direction of the protruding part 58 of the metal member 50. The pair of support parts 37 have a first support part 37A and a second support part 37B. The protruding part 58 of the metal member 50 is positioned between the first support part 37A and the second support part 37B. For example, the protruding part 58 of the metal member 50 is sandwiched from both sides in the Y direction by the first support part 37A and the second support part 37B. The protruding part 58 of the metal member 50 is fitted between the first support part 37A and the second support part 37B.

[0096] Even with this configuration, the metal member 50 can be temporarily fixed to the first connection portion 31 of the busbar 30 before the fastening member 40 is attached. This improves the ease of assembly of the electrical connection unit. In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, one or both of the first extension portion 52 and the second extension portion 53 of the metal member 50 may be provided.

[0097] (F. Sixth Embodiment) The sixth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a connecting component 90 is provided. Except for the configuration described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0098] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrical connection unit 1 according to the sixth embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrical connection unit 1 has a connecting component 90. The connecting component 90 is a member that electrically connects a first connection target (electronic component 10) and a second connection target (busbar 30). The connecting component 90 forms part of the current-carrying path of the electrical connection unit 1. The connecting component 90 is made of metal (for example, copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy). The connecting component 90 is an example of a "wire routing material".

[0099] The connecting component 90 has, for example, a first connecting portion 91 and a second connecting portion 92. In this embodiment, the entire connecting component 90, including the first connecting portion 91 and the second connecting portion 92, is formed from a single plate material.

[0100] (First connection portion) The first connection portion 91 is the portion that is connected to the first connection target (for example, the electronic component 10). The first connection portion 91 is located at the first end of the connecting component 90. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 91 is arranged in an upright position in the Z direction. The first connection portion 91 is a plate portion that is aligned with the Y and Z directions. The first connection portion 91 has a mounting hole 91h into which a fastening member 41 is inserted. The first connection portion 121 is fixed to the first terminal 13A of the electronic component 10 by the fastening member 41 inserted into the mounting hole 91h. The mounting hole 91h is an example of a "first mounting hole".

[0101] (Second connection portion) The second connection portion 92 is the portion that is connected to the second connection target (for example, the bus bar 30). The second connection portion 92 is located at the second end of the connecting component 90. In this embodiment, the second connection portion 92 is a plate portion that is aligned with the X and Y directions. In this embodiment, the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 is a plate portion that is aligned with the horizontal direction. The second connection portion 92 overlaps with the first connection portion 31 of the bus bar 30 in the Z direction. The second connection portion 92 has a mounting hole 92h into which the fastening member 45 is inserted.

[0102] The details of the sixth embodiment, other than those described above, are the same as those of the first embodiment described above. For example, the details of the sixth embodiment can be described in the description of the first embodiment above by replacing "bus bar 30" with "connecting part 90", "first connecting part 31" with "first connecting part 91", and "mounting hole 31h" with "mounting hole 91h".

[0103] With this configuration, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to improve the thermal characteristics of the electrical connection unit.

[0104] Several embodiments and variations have been described above. However, the embodiments and variations are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the multiple embodiments or variations described above may be implemented in combination with each other. For example, the configuration of the first or second variation of the first embodiment may be implemented in combination with the configuration of the second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth embodiment. Also, the configuration of the sixth embodiment may be implemented in combination with the configuration of the second, third, fourth, or fifth embodiment.

[0105] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to improve thermal properties.

[0106] 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) 31...First connection part 31h...Mounting hole (first mounting hole) 35...Through part 37...Support part 41...Fastening member 50...Metal member 50h...Mounting hole (second mounting hole) 51...Base part (first plate part) 52...First extension part (second plate part or third plate part) 53...Second extension part (third plate part or second plate part) 55...Engaging part (extension part) 90...Connecting component (wire routing material) 91h...Mounting hole (first mounting hole)

Claims

1. An electrical connection unit comprising: a cable member having a first mounting hole and fixed to a connection target by a fastening member inserted into the first mounting hole; and a metal member having a second mounting hole facing the first mounting hole and fastened together with the cable member by the fastening member being inserted into the second mounting hole.

2. The electrical connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the metal member has a first plate portion having the second mounting hole and facing the object to be connected from a first direction, and a second plate portion facing the object to be connected from a second direction different from the first direction.

3. The electrical connection unit according to claim 2, wherein the metal member further has a third plate portion facing the object to be connected from a third direction different from the first and second directions.

4. The electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a spacer disposed between the cable material and the metal member in the first direction when the insertion direction of the fastening member is the first direction, and forming a gap between the cable material and the metal member.

5. When the insertion direction of the fastening member is a first direction, the cable material has a through portion that penetrates the cable material in the first direction, the metal member has an extended portion that is inserted into the through portion, and the length of the extended portion in the first direction is greater than the length of the fastening member in the first direction, the electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cable routing member has a pair of support parts for clamping the metal member.

7. The electrical connection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the insertion direction of the fastening member is defined as the first direction, the direction intersecting the first direction is defined as the second direction, and the direction intersecting the first and second directions is defined as the third direction, the cable material has a first portion facing the object to be connected in the first direction, a second portion extending in the first direction from the end of the first portion in the second direction, and a through portion provided at the end of the first portion in the third direction that penetrates the cable material in the first direction, and the metal member has an engaging portion that engages with the through portion.

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