Fuse unit

A fuse unit includes a fusible link, a holding mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fusible link is connected to a battery terminal and includes a fusible element that melts when an overcurrent flows through the fusible link. The holding mechanism includes a base portion disposed between a post standing surface of a battery housing and the battery terminal in a state where the battery terminal is fastened to a battery post provided on the post standing surface, and a holding portion that is formed next to the base portion and that holds the fusible link above the post standing surface. The locking mechanism locks the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface. With this configuration, the fuse unit can suppress a load acting on the battery post.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a fuse unit.

2. Description of the Related Art

There have been developed conventional fuse units mounted on a vehicle or the like, including a fuse unit disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2013-037949, for example. The fuse unit disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2013-037949 includes: a power source side terminal connected to a bolt standing on a battery terminal; load side terminals connected to load terminals; a conductor, in which the power source side terminal and a fusible element provided across the load side terminals are integrally formed in a flat plate shape; and a resin cover exposing connection parts of the power source side terminal and the load side terminals to other terminals and covering the conductor.

The fuse unit disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2013-037949 is directly connected to the battery terminal, for example. In fastening the battery terminal to a battery post, there is room for improvement in suppressing a load acting on the battery post.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a fuse unit capable of suppressing a load acting on a battery post.

In order to achieve the above mentioned object, a fuse unit according to one aspect of the present invention includes a fusible link connected to a battery terminal and including a fusible element that melts when an overcurrent flows through the fusible link; a holding mechanism that includes a base portion disposed between a post standing surface of a battery housing and the battery terminal in a state where the battery terminal is fastened to a battery post provided in a recess on the post standing surface, and a holding portion that is formed next to the base portion and that holds the fusible link above the post standing surface; and a locking mechanism that locks the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface, wherein the holding portion has a side wall on the base portion side extending toward a lower side in a vertical direction in a manner corresponding to a difference in level formed by the recess on the post standing surface and is connected to the base portion at a lower end of the side wall.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the holding mechanism includes an attachment portion that attaches the battery terminal to a position where the battery terminal is capable of being fastened to the battery post on the base portion.

In order to achieve the above mentioned object, a fuse unit according to still another aspect of the present invention includes a fusible link connected to a battery terminal and including a fusible element that melts when an overcurrent flows through the fusible link; a holding mechanism that includes a base portion disposed between a post standing surface of a battery housing and the battery terminal in a state where the battery terminal is fastened to a battery post provided on the post standing surface and a holding portion that is formed next to the base portion and that holds the fusible link above the post standing surface; and a locking mechanism that locks the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface, wherein the holding mechanism includes an attachment portion that attaches the battery terminal to a position where the battery terminal is capable of being fastened to the battery post on the base portion.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking mechanism includes a locking claw that engages with the battery housing to lock the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is provided in plurality and engages with a plurality of surfaces of the battery housing.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to further include a locking force adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting locking force of the locking claw locking the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed separately from the holding mechanism and supported by the holding mechanism in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism has a first cog formed on one of the holding mechanism side and the locking claw side and a plurality of second cogs formed on the other of the holding mechanism side and the locking claw side in a manner aligned in a direction closer to or away from the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the first cog to engage with one of the second cogs to restrict movement of the locking claw toward a side away from the battery housing and relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed separately from the holding mechanism and supported by the holding mechanism in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism has a first cog formed on one of the battery housing side and the locking claw side and a plurality of second cogs formed on the other of the battery housing side and the locking claw side in a manner aligned in a direction closer to or away from the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the first cog to engage with one of the second cogs to restrict movement of the locking claw toward a side away from the battery housing and relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed integrally with the holding mechanism, and the locking force adjustment mechanism includes a wedge member interposed between the holding mechanism or a member formed integrally with the holding mechanism and the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the wedge member to be interposed between the holding mechanism or the member formed integrally with the holding mechanism and the battery housing to relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed integrally with the holding mechanism, and the locking force adjustment mechanism includes a screw member that is screwed into the holding mechanism, that has a distal end coming into contact with the battery housing along with a screwing motion, and that presses the battery housing such that the holding mechanism moves away from the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the screw member to press the battery housing such that the holding mechanism moves away from the battery housing to relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed separately from the holding mechanism, and the locking force adjustment mechanism includes a coupling member that couples the holding mechanism to the locking claw and that is capable of changing a gap between the holding mechanism and the locking claw along with rotation about an axis, and the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the coupling member to make the gap between the holding mechanism and the locking claw relatively small to relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw is formed separately from the holding mechanism, and the locking force adjustment mechanism includes a flat lever that is coupled to a shaft provided to the locking claw side in a manner rotatable about the shaft, that has an outer surface in contact with the holding mechanism, and that changes a distance from a contact position with the holding mechanism to the shaft along with rotation about the shaft, and the locking force adjustment mechanism makes the distance from the contact position to the shaft relatively long along with the rotation of the flat lever about the shaft to make the locking claw closer to the holding mechanism and relatively increases the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking claw includes a first locking claw formed integrally with the holding mechanism and a second locking claw that is formed separately from the holding mechanism and that engages with a surface opposite to a surface with which the first locking claw engages in the battery housing, and the locking force adjustment mechanism has a first cog formed on one of the first locking claw side and the second locking claw side and a plurality of second cogs formed on the other of the first locking claw side and the second locking claw side in a manner aligned in a direction in which the first locking claw and the second locking claw are opposite to each other, the locking force adjustment mechanism causes the first cog to engage with one of the second cogs to restrict movement of the first locking claw and the second locking claw toward sides away from each other, and relatively increase the locking force.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to configure that the locking mechanism includes a coupler that couples a member to be coupled other than the battery housing to the holding mechanism to lock the holding mechanism onto the post standing surface.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the fuse unit, it is possible to further include a holding mechanism positioning mechanism that has a recess formed on one of the post standing surface and the holding mechanism and a protrusion provided on the other of the post standing surface and the holding mechanism and fit into the recess, the holding mechanism positioning mechanism positioning the holding mechanism on the post standing surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments according to the present invention are described below in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are not intended to limit the invention. Components according to the embodiments below include ones that can be readily replaced by those skilled in the art and ones substantially identical therewith.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a battery in which a fuse unit according to a first embodiment is used.FIG. 2is an exploded perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of the fuse unit according to the first embodiment.FIG. 3is a plan view illustrating the schematic configuration of the fuse unit according to the first embodiment.FIG. 4is a sectional view along A1-A1inFIG. 3.FIG. 5is a sectional view along B1-B1inFIG. 3.FIG. 6is a sectional view along C1-C1inFIG. 3.FIG. 7is a sectional view along D1-D1inFIG. 3. To simplify the explanation,FIG. 2schematically illustrates fuse elements and stud bolts, which are actually buried in a housing by insert molding, in an exploded manner.

In the following description, a direction along a central axis X1of a battery post102is referred to as an axial direction. Typically, the axial direction is a direction along the vertical direction when a battery100is mounted on a vehicle or the like. A post standing surface105of a battery housing101, which will be described later, typically corresponds to an upper surface in the vertical direction of the battery housing101. To simplify the following description, one of two directions orthogonal to the axial direction is referred to as a long-side direction (first width direction), and the other thereof is referred to as a short-side direction (second width direction) for descriptive purposes. The axial direction, the long-side direction, and the short-side direction are orthogonal to one another.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, a fuse unit1according to the present embodiment is used in a battery terminal110connected to the battery100mounted on a vehicle or the like and used to protect an electric circuit from an overcurrent.

The battery100and the battery terminal110in which the fuse unit1is used are described first with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, and 3.

The battery100is mounted on a vehicle or the like as an electricity storage device, for example. The battery100includes the battery housing101, the battery post102, and other components. The battery housing101accommodates a battery fluid and various parts constituting the battery100. The battery post102is provided to the battery housing101. The battery housing101includes a housing body103and a lid member104. The housing body103has a substantially rectangular box shape one surface of which is opened. The lid member104covers the opening surface. The battery housing101is formed into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole. While the battery housing101has its long side along the long-side direction and its short side along the short-side direction, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The battery post102is made of electrically conductive lead or the like and vertically arranged on the post standing surface105of the lid member104. The post standing surface105is a surface on which the battery post102is vertically arranged in the battery housing101. The post standing surface105, for example, is a surface on the upper side in the vertical direction (upper surface in the vertical direction) of the lid member104in the battery housing101when the battery100is mounted on a vehicle or the like. The post standing surface105is the entire upper surface in the vertical direction of the lid member104including a bottom surface of a recess106, which will be described later. The battery post102has a substantially cylindrical shape and is vertically arranged in a manner protruding on the post standing surface105with the central axis X1extending orthogonally to the post standing surface105. More specifically, the battery post102according to the present embodiment is vertically arranged in the recess106formed near a corner of the post standing surface105. The recess106is a portion recessed in a substantially rectangular shape near the corner of the post standing surface105. The battery post102is vertically arranged in the recess106. The battery post102typically tapers such that the diameter decreases toward the distal end in the axial direction. In other words, the battery post102has a tapered shape having the outer diameter of the distal end smaller than that of the proximal end.

The battery posts102and the recesses106are provided in pair in the long-side direction to serve as an anode and a cathode. The pair of recesses106communicates via a communicating recess107(also refer toFIG. 7and other figures). The communicating recess107is formed along an edge extending in the long-side direction of the lid member104. While the following describes a case where the fuse unit1is used in the battery terminal110provided to the battery post102on the anode side, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The battery100is fixed at a predetermined position in a vehicle with a mounting tray108or the like provided on the lower side in the vertical direction.

The battery terminal110is a part attached to the battery post102to electrically connect the battery100to a metal fitting, such as a terminal115, provided to the distal end of an electric wire114on the body side of a vehicle or the like on which the battery100is mounted. The battery terminal110includes a body111, a stud bolt112, and a fastening portion113. In the body111, an annular portion111aand a bolt holding portion111bare integrally formed by pressing and folding an electrically conductive metal plate, for example. The annular portion111ahas a post insertion hole111cinto which the battery post102is inserted and a slit111dcommunicating with the post insertion hole111c. The post insertion hole111cis formed into a substantially circular shape and has a tapered shape corresponding to the tapered shape of the battery post102on the inner peripheral wall surface such that the inner peripheral surface comes into contact with the battery post102when the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole111c. The bolt holding portion111bis a portion that holds the stud bolt112by being folded when the stud bolt112is inserted into a bolt insertion hole111e, for example. The stud bolt112has electric conductivity. The shaft of the stud bolt112protruding from the bolt insertion hole111eis electrically connected to the metal fitting, such as the terminal115, provided to the distal end of the electric wire114when the stud bolt112is held by the bolt holding portion111b(refer toFIGS. 1 and 3and other figures). The fastening portion113fastens the annular portion111ato the battery post102when the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole111c. The fastening portion113includes a bolt and a nut, for example, and the bolt is attached to the body111in a manner crossing over the slit111d. By screwing the nut on the distal end of the bolt, the fastening portion113fastens the annular portion111ato fix the battery terminal110to the battery post102.

In the battery100where the battery terminal110is fastened to the battery post102as described above, a protector3serves as a holding mechanism having a base portion31and a holding portion32integrally formed and holds a fusible link2above the post standing surface105, that is, the upper surface in the vertical direction of the battery housing101in the present embodiment. As a result, the fuse unit1according to the present embodiment suppresses a load acting on the battery post102.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and7, the fuse unit1includes the fusible link2and the protector3serving as the holding mechanism. The fuse unit1according to the present embodiment further includes a locking mechanism4and a coupling bus bar5.

The fusible link2is connected to the battery terminal110and includes fusible elements (fuse)21cthat melt when an overcurrent flows therethrough. The fusible link2includes a fuse element21, stud bolts22, and a resin housing23. The fuse element21includes the fusible elements21c. The stud bolts22are connected to the fuse element21. The housing23supports the fuse element21.

The fuse element21is a plate-like conductor having electric conductivity and is a metal bus bar. The fuse element21includes a power source side terminal21a, a plurality of load side terminals21b, and the fusible elements21cintegrally formed in a flat plate shape. The power source side terminal21ais connected to the battery terminal110via the coupling bus bar5and other components. The load side terminals21bare connected to load terminals. The fusible elements21care provided across the power source side terminal21aand the load side terminals21b. The load side terminals21bhave various shapes depending on the shapes of the respective load terminals, for example. The fusible elements21celectrically connect the power source side terminal21aand the respective load side terminals21b. The fusible elements21cinclude a strip-like conductive portion having a smaller width onto which a low melting metal chip is welded, for example. The fusible elements21cmelt when an overcurrent flows therethrough to interrupt the corresponding electric current path. The overcurrent in the fusible elements21cis an electric current equal to or larger than a predetermined rated current, for example. In other words, the fusible elements21cmelt when an electric current equal to or larger than the predetermined rated current flows therethrough. The rated currents of the respective fusible elements21care determined depending on the electric current of the circuit to be protected. The power source side terminal21aand the load side terminals21beach have a bolt attachment hole and a connector connection shape. The stud bolts22are inserted into the respective bolt attachment holes, for example.

The stud bolts22have electric conductivity and are electrically connected to load terminals of an external circuit.

The housing23is made of an insulating resin material and is a block-like body supporting and covering the fuse element21and the stud bolts22. In the fusible link2according to the present embodiment, the fuse elements21and the stud bolts22are buried and integrally formed in the housing23by insert molding, for example (refer toFIGS. 6 and 7and other figures). The fusible link2is formed into a substantially rectangular box shape as a whole.

In the fusible link2, the positions corresponding to the respective fusible elements21care covered with a resin transparent cover member24. The fusible elements21ccan be visually checked through the transparent cover member24.

The protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. The protector3has the base portion31and the holding portion32. The base portion31and the holding portion32are made of an insulating resin material and integrally formed.

The base portion31is a portion disposed between the post standing surface105and the battery terminal110when the battery terminal110is fastened to the battery post102provided on the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. The base portion31is provided around the battery post102. The base portion31is formed into a rectangular plate shape and has a post insertion hole31ainto which the battery post102is inserted. The post insertion hole31ais formed sufficiently larger than the battery post102in consideration of a tolerance allowable in the battery100, for example. The base portion31has a size and a shape that allow the base portion31to be arranged in the recess106of the post standing surface105when the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole31a. The base portion31may have a post insertion cutout through which the battery post102can penetrate instead of the post insertion hole31a.

The holding portion32is formed next to the base portion31and holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. The holding portion32has a bottom surface32aand side walls32b. The bottom surface32ais formed into a substantially rectangular plate shape. The side walls32bare vertically arranged in a manner surrounding the periphery of the bottom surface32a. The bottom surface32aand the side walls32bare integrally formed into a tray shape (dish shape). The side walls32bare vertically arranged in a manner protruding toward one side in the vertical direction so as to surround four sides of the bottom surface32a, that is, toward the upper side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100(which may be hereinafter simply referred to as an “attached state”) in the present embodiment. The side walls32bmay have a cutout at a predetermined position depending on the shape of a terminal and a connector connected to the fusible link2, for example. The holding portion32has an accommodation space32cformed by the bottom surface32aand the side walls32bto accommodate and hold the fusible link2. The accommodation space32copens toward the upper side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. The accommodation space32chas a size and a shape that allow the fusible link2to be fit into it. The holding portion32has a plurality of locking claws32dat the distal ends (ends on the upper side in the vertical direction in the attached state) of the side walls32b. The locking claws32dhave a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal ends of the side walls32b(refer toFIG. 7and other figures). The locking claws32dof the holding portion32engage with the outer periphery of the housing23of the fusible link2at predetermined positions when the fusible link2is fit into the accommodation space32c. As a result, the holding portion32can fix and lock the fusible link2in the accommodation space32c.

The holding portion32according to the present embodiment having the structure described above is formed integrally with the base portion31next to the base portion31in the long-side direction. In the holding portion32, the side wall32bon the base portion31side extends toward the lower side in the vertical direction in a manner corresponding to the difference in level formed by the recess106on the post standing surface105. The holding portion32is connected to the base portion31at the lower end of the side wall32b. When the protector3is attached to the battery100in a positional relation where the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole31aof the base portion31and where the base portion31is positioned in the recess106, at least part of the holding portion32is positioned on the post standing surface105and places and holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. In the attached state, the holding portion32is placed with the back surface (surface opposite to the accommodation space32c) of the bottom surface32ain contact with the post standing surface105. As a result, the protector3receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105via the holding portion32.

The locking mechanism4locks the protector3having the structure described above onto the post standing surface105. The locking mechanism4according to the present embodiment includes locking claws41and42that engage with the battery housing101to lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105. The locking claws41and42are provided in plurality, that is, two in the present embodiment. The locking claws41and42engage with a plurality of surfaces of the battery housing101, that is, two surfaces orthogonal to each other in the battery housing101in the present embodiment. The locking claws41and42are formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3via plate-like portions (arm portions)41aand42a, respectively, extending in the vertical direction in the attached state. The plate-like portions41aand42aextend toward the lower side in the vertical direction from the base portion31and the holding portion32in the attached state to be formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32.

In the attached state, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion41aare formed at a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. The locking claw41and the plate-like portion41aare formed in a manner extending in the long-side direction across the base portion31and the holding portion32. In the attached state, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion42aare formed at a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. The locking claw42and the plate-like portion42aare formed in a manner extending in the short-side direction on the base portion31.

The locking claws41and42have a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal ends (ends on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the plate-like portions41aand42a, respectively (refer toFIGS. 4, 5, and 7and other figures). The locking claws41and42engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104in the battery housing101. The locking mechanism4causes the locking claws41and42to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104at predetermined positions when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism4can fix and lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The coupling bus bar5is a plate-like conductor having electrical conductivity and electrically connects the fuse element21to the battery terminal110. The coupling bus bar5is a plate-like metal bus bar and has a step5aand bolt holes5band5c. The step5ais formed in a manner corresponding to the difference in level formed by the recess106on the post standing surface105. The bolt holes5band5care formed at both ends of the coupling bus bar5. In the coupling bus bar5, a nut is screwed on the stud bolt22of the power source side terminal21ainserted into the bolt hole5b, and a nut is screwed on the stud bolt112of the battery terminal110inserted into the bolt hole5c. As a result, the coupling bus bar5electrically connects the stud bolt22of the power source side terminal21ato the shaft of the stud bolt112of the battery terminal110.

In the fuse unit1having the structure described above, the fusible link2is fit into the accommodation space32cof the holding portion32of the protector3, and the locking claws32dengage with the housing23of the fusible link2. As a result, the fusible link2is fixed and locked in the accommodation space32c. In the fuse unit1, the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100together with the fusible link2in a positional relation where the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole31aof the base portion31of the protector3and where the base portion31is positioned in the recess106. At this time, the fuse unit1causes the locking claws41and42of the locking mechanism4to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104, thereby fixing and locking the protector3on the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2.

As described above, the fuse unit1can position at least part of the protector3on the post standing surface105of the battery100and place and hold the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. In the fuse unit1, after the battery terminal110is attached to the battery post102, the coupling bus bar5is arranged so as to connect the stud bolt22of the power source side terminal21ain the fuse element21to the battery terminal110. Subsequently, bolts, nuts, and the like in the portions are fastened. As a result, the battery terminal110is fastened to the battery post102and connected to the fusible link2. At this time, the coupling bus bar5also serves as a regulating member that regulates the attachment angle of the battery terminal110with respect to the battery post102.

While the fusible link2is attached to the protector3before the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2in the description above, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the protector3may be attached to the post standing surface105before the fusible link2is attached to the protector3. The stud bolt112of the battery terminal110is connected not only to the coupling bus bar5but also to the terminal115or the like provided to the distal end of the electric wire114.

As described above, the fuse unit1includes the fusible link2, the protector3, and the locking mechanism4. The fusible link2is connected to the battery terminal110and includes the fusible elements21cthat melt when an overcurrent flows therethrough. The protector3has the base portion31and the holding portion32. The base portion31is disposed between the post standing surface105and the battery terminal110when the battery terminal110is fastened to the battery post102provided on the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. The holding portion32is formed next to the base portion31to hold the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. The locking mechanism4locks the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit1, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit1receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit1, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit1can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit1around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit1can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit1can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

The fuse unit1can attach the protector3and the battery terminal110separately to the battery100. Consequently, the fuse unit1can appropriately fasten the battery terminal110to the battery post102independently of the tolerance allowable in the battery100, for example.

In the fuse unit1, the locking mechanism4includes the locking claws41and42that engage with the battery housing101to lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105. Consequently, the fuse unit1causes the locking claws41and42to engage with the battery housing101, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2.

In the fuse unit1, the locking claws41and42are provided in plurality and engage with a plurality of surfaces of the battery housing101. With this structure, the fuse unit1can cause the locking claws41and42to engage with the surfaces of the battery housing101, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. Consequently, the fuse unit1can attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 8is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of the battery in which a fuse unit according to a second embodiment is used.FIG. 9is an exploded perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of the fuse unit according to the second embodiment.FIG. 10is a plan view illustrating the schematic configuration of the fuse unit according to the second embodiment.FIG. 11is a sectional view along A2-A2inFIG. 10.FIG. 12is a sectional view along B2-B2inFIG. 10.FIG. 13is a sectional view along C2-C2inFIG. 10.FIG. 14is a sectional view along D2-D2inFIG. 10. To simplify the explanation,FIG. 9schematically illustrates fuse elements and stud bolts, which are actually buried in a housing by insert molding, in an exploded manner. The fuse unit according to the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that it further includes an attachment portion. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiment above will be omitted as much as possible.

As illustrated inFIGS. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, a fuse unit201according to the present embodiment includes the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5.

The protector3according to the present embodiment further includes an attachment portion233to which the battery terminal110is attached in the base portion31. The attachment portion233attaches the battery terminal110to a position where the battery terminal110can be fastened to the battery post102on the base portion31. The attachment portion233according to the present embodiment includes engaging claws233aand a lid233bthat engages with the engaging claws233a(refer toFIGS. 9 and 11and other figures). The engaging claws233aare provided in pair in a manner sandwiching the post insertion hole31ain the long-side direction on the base portion31. The lid233bcovers a part near the annular portion111aof the battery terminal110. The lid233bhas a through hole having substantially the same shape as that of the post insertion hole111cof the battery terminal110. The lid233balso has locking portions233cthat are formed on both sides of the through hole and that can engage with the respective engaging claws233a(refer toFIG. 9and other figures). The attachment portion233causes the locking portions233cof the lid233bto engage with the respective engaging claws233aon the base portion31with the battery terminal110disposed between the base portion31and the lid233b, thereby attaching and locking the battery terminal110at a predetermined position on the base portion31. The attachment portion233includes the engaging claws233aand the lid233bsuch that they have a positional relation where the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole111cof the battery terminal110with the battery post102inserted into the post insertion hole31aof the base portion31.

In the fuse unit201having the structure described above, the fusible link2is fit into the accommodation space32cof the holding portion32of the protector3, and the locking claws32dengage with the housing23of the fusible link2. As a result, the fusible link2is fixed and locked in the accommodation space32c. In the fuse unit201, the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100together with the fusible link2in a positional relation where the battery terminal110is attached to the attachment portion233provided to the base portion31, where the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole31aof the base portion31of the protector3and the post insertion hole111cof the battery terminal110, and where the base portion31is positioned in the recess106. At this time, the fuse unit201causes the locking claws41and42of the locking mechanism4to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104, thereby fixing and locking the protector3on the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2.

As described above, the fuse unit201can position at least part of the protector3on the post standing surface105of the battery100and place and hold the fusible link2above the post standing surface105. In the fuse unit201, the coupling bus bar5is arranged so as to connect the stud bolt22of the power source side terminal21ain the fuse element21to the battery terminal110. Subsequently, bolts, nuts, and the like in the portions are fastened. As a result, the battery terminal110is fastened to the battery post102and connected to the fusible link2.

In the fuse unit201, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit201receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit201, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit201can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit201around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit201can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit201can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

In the fuse unit201, the protector3further includes the attachment portion233that attaches the battery terminal110to a position where the battery terminal110can be fastened to the battery post102on the base portion31. Consequently, the fuse unit201can attach the battery terminal110to the attachment portion233and thus attach the protector3and the battery terminal110integrally to the battery100. This structure can reduce the number of processes in assembly, thereby improving the assembly workability.

The fuse unit201can attach the protector3and the battery terminal110integrally to the battery100. Consequently, the locking claws41and42and the plate-like portions41aand42aformed integrally with the protector3can also be used as a regulating member that regulates the attachment angle of the battery terminal110with respect to the battery post102. In other words, in the fuse unit201, the locking claws41and42and the plate-like portions41aand42aalso serve as a stopper that prevents rotation of the battery terminal110about the battery post102within a predetermined range. This structure can limit the allowable range of the attachment angle of the battery terminal110with respect to the battery post102to a relatively narrow range, thereby improving the attachment accuracy of the battery terminal110to the battery post102.

The attachment portion233is not limited to the form described above. While the attachment portion233includes two pairs of the engaging claw233aand the locking portion233c, for example, the base portion31and the lid233bmay be integrally formed via a hinge instead of one of the pairs. In this case, in the attachment portion233, the locking portion233cengages with the engaging claw233awith the battery terminal110held between the base portion31and the lid233b, that is, in the closed state, thereby preventing the lid233bfrom opening. As a result, the attachment portion233can attach and lock the battery terminal110at the predetermined position on the base portion31. Alternatively, the attachment portion233does not necessarily include the lid233b, for example. In this case, the attachment portion233may attach and lock the battery terminal110at the predetermined position on the base portion31by fitting and locking a protrusion having a lock shape formed in one of the battery terminal110and the base portion31into a recess formed in the other thereof, for example.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 15is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a third embodiment.FIG. 16is a partial perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the third embodiment.FIG. 17is a partial sectional view along the long-side direction including the locking claw of the fuse unit according to the third embodiment.FIG. 18is a partial sectional view along the short-side direction including the locking claw of the fuse unit according to the third embodiment.FIG. 19is an enlarged partial sectional view of a part in the surrounding line A5inFIG. 17.FIG. 20is an exploded perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a modification. The fuse unit according to the third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that it further includes locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19, a fuse unit301according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms308. The locking force adjustment mechanisms308can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

As illustrated inFIGS. 15 and 16and other figures, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed separately from the protector3. The locking claws41and42are supported by the protector3in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing101. More specifically, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with plate-like portions (arm portions)341aand342a, respectively, at the distal ends of the plate-like portions341aand342a. The plate-like portions341aand342aaccording to the present embodiment are formed separately from the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3. The locking claws41and42have a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal ends (ends on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the plate-like portions341aand342a, respectively (refer toFIGS. 17 and 18and other figures).

Supported structures341band342bsupported by the protector3are formed integrally with the plate-like portions341aand342a, respectively, at the ends (ends on the upper side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) opposite to the ends provided with the locking claws41and42. The supported structure341band342baccording to the present embodiment are formed into a square pillar shape and extend in a direction intersecting with (substantially orthogonal to) the main surface of the plate-like portions341aand342a, respectively. In the protector3according to the present embodiment, supporting portions331band331care formed integrally with the base portion31. The supporting portions331band331care portions into which the supported structures341band342b, respectively, are inserted and that support the supported structures341band342b. In the attached state, the supporting portion331bis formed at the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31, and the supporting portion331cis formed at the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31. The supported structure341bis inserted into and supported by the supporting portion331b. As a result, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341aare supported by the base portion31of the protector3in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing101in the short-side direction. The supported structure342bis inserted into and supported by the supporting portion331c. As a result, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare supported by the base portion31of the protector3in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing101in the long-side direction.

In the attached state and the state where the supported structure341bis supported by the supporting portion331b, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341aare provided at a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341aextend in the long-side direction, and the supported structure341bextends in the short-side direction. In the attached state and the state where the supported structure342bis supported by the supporting portion331c, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare provided at a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aextend in the short-side direction, and the supported structure342bextends in the long-side direction.

As illustrated inFIGS. 15, 17, 18, and 19, the locking force adjustment mechanisms308according to the present embodiment are provided to a support portion between the supported structure341band the supporting portion331band a support portion between the supported structure342band the supporting portion331c. The enlarged partial sectional view inFIG. 19illustrates the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure342bside. Because the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure341bside has substantially the same structure as that on the supported structure342bside, illustration thereof is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms308each have a first cog308aand a plurality of second cogs308b. The first cog308ais formed on one of the protector3side and the locking claws41and42side. The second cogs308bare formed on the other of the protector3side and the locking claws41and42side in a manner aligned in a direction in which the locking claws41and42move closer to or away from the battery housing101.

In the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure342bside, as illustrated inFIGS. 17 and 19and other figures, the first cog308ais formed on the upper surface in the vertical direction of the base portion31of the protector3(that is, the surface facing the supported structure342b). The first cog308ais formed as a protruding cog protruding from the base portion31, and one first cog308ais provided in the present embodiment. In the locking force adjustment mechanism308, the second cogs308bare formed on the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the supported structure342bformed integrally with the locking claw42(that is, the surface facing the base portion31). The second cogs308bare formed as protruding cogs protruding from the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the supported structure342b. The second cogs308bare aligned in the direction in which the locking claw42moves closer to or away from the battery housing101, that is, in the long-side direction. The first cog308aand the second cogs308bare formed into the following sectional shape: when the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare moved in the direction closer to the battery housing101, and the supported structure342bis moved and thrusted into the supporting portion331cin the long-side direction, the second cogs308bclimb over the first cog308a; and when the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare moved in the direction away from the battery housing101, and the supported structure342bis tried to be pulled out from the supporting portion331cin the long-side direction, one of the second cogs308bcomes into contact with the first cog308a, thereby restricting the movement of the supported structure342b.

Similarly, in the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure341bside, as illustrated inFIG. 18and other figures, the first cog308ais formed on the upper surface in the vertical direction of the base portion31of the protector3(that is, the surface facing the supported structure341b). The first cog308ais formed as a protruding cog protruding from the base portion31, and one first cog308ais provided in the present embodiment. In the locking force adjustment mechanism308, the second cogs308bare formed on the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the supported structure341bformed integrally with the locking claw41(that is, the surface facing the base portion31). The second cogs308bare formed as protruding cogs protruding from the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the supported structure341b. The second cogs308bare aligned in the direction in which the locking claw41moves closer to or away from the battery housing101, that is, in the short-side direction. The first cog308aand the second cogs308bare formed into the following sectional shape: when the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341aare moved in the direction closer to the battery housing101, and the supported structure341bis moved and thrusted into the supporting portion331bin the short-side direction, the second cogs308bclimb over the first cog308a; and when the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341aare moved in the direction away from the battery housing101, and the supported structure341bis tried to be pulled out from the supporting portion331bin the short-side direction, one of the second cogs308bcomes into contact with the first cog308a, thereby restricting the movement of the supported structure341b.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms308having the structure described above cause the first cog308ato engage with one of the second cogs308b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure341bside moves the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341ain the direction closer to the battery housing101and thrusts the supported structure341btoward the supporting portion331bas much as possible. The locking force adjustment mechanism308thus relatively increases the force of the locking claw41engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanism308can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claw41locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state. Similarly, the locking force adjustment mechanism308on the supported structure342bside moves the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342ain the direction closer to the battery housing101and thrusts the supported structure342btoward the supporting portion331cas much as possible. The locking force adjustment mechanism308thus relatively increases the force of the locking claw42engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanism308can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claw42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state.

In the fuse unit301, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit301receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit301, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit301can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit301around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit301can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit301can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

The fuse unit301further includes the locking force adjustment mechanisms308that can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit301causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms308to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit301can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit301, the locking claws41and42are formed separately from the protector3and supported by the protector3in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanisms308each include the first cog308aand the second cogs308b. The first cog308ais formed on one of the protector3side and the locking claws41and42side. The second cogs308bare formed on the other of the protector3side and the locking claws41and42side in a manner aligned in the direction closer to or away from the battery housing101. The first cog308aengages with one of the second cogs308b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101and relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit301uses the mechanism that the first cog308aengages with one of the second cogs308bin the locking force adjustment mechanisms308, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit301relatively increases the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. The fuse unit301thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state. As a result, the fuse unit301can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit301can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms308.

In the description above, the first cog308ais formed on the protector3side, and the second cogs308bare formed on the supported structures341band342bon the locking claws41and42side, respectively, in the locking force adjustment mechanisms308. Alternatively, the first cog308amay be formed on the supported structures341band342bon the locking claws41and42side, respectively, and the second cogs308bmay be formed on the protector3side. In the locking force adjustment mechanisms308, the first cog308amay be provided in plurality in a manner aligned in the direction closer to or away from the battery housing101.

As illustrated in the modification inFIG. 20, the locking force adjustment mechanisms308may be used in the fuse unit201to provide a fuse unit301A. Also in this case, the fuse unit301A can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 21is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a fourth embodiment.FIG. 22is a partial sectional view along the long-side direction including the locking claw of the fuse unit according to the fourth embodiment.FIG. 23is an enlarged partial sectional view of a part inside the surrounding line A6inFIG. 22.FIG. 24is an exploded perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a modification. The fuse unit according to the fourth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in the positions where the locking force adjustment mechanisms are provided. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 21, 22, and 23, a fuse unit401according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms408. The locking force adjustment mechanisms408can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms408according to the present embodiment are provided to an engagement portion between the locking claw41and the lid member104of the battery housing101and an engagement portion between the locking claw42and the lid member104of the battery housing101. Because the structures of the locking force adjustment mechanisms408are substantially the same, the following describes the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw42side, and explanation of the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw41side is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms408each have a first cog408aand a plurality of second cogs408b. The first cog408ais formed on one of the battery housing101side and the locking claws41and42side. The second cogs408bare formed on the other of the battery housing101side and the locking claws41and42side in a manner aligned in a direction in which the locking claws41and42move closer to or away from the battery housing101.

In the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw42side, as illustrated inFIGS. 22 and 23and other figures, the first cog408ais formed on the upper surface in the vertical direction of the locking claw42(that is, the engagement surface that engages with the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104in the battery housing101). The first cog408ais formed as a protruding cog protruding from the upper surface in the vertical direction of the locking claw42, and one first cog408ais provided in the present embodiment. In the locking force adjustment mechanism408, the second cogs408bare formed on the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104in the battery housing101(that is, the engagement surface that engages with the upper surface in the vertical direction of the locking claw42). The second cogs408bare formed as protruding cogs protruding from the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104. The second cogs408bare aligned in the direction in which the locking claw42moves closer to or away from the battery housing101, that is, in the long-side direction. The first cog408aand the second cogs408bare formed into the following sectional shape: when the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare moved in the direction closer to the battery housing101, and the supported structure342bis moved and thrusted into the supporting portion331cin the long-side direction, the second cogs408bclimb over the first cog408a; and when the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342aare moved in the direction away from the battery housing101, and the supported structure342bis tried to be pulled out from the supporting portion331cin the long-side direction, one of the second cogs408bcomes into contact with the first cog408a, thereby restricting the movement of the supported structure342b. The locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw41side has substantially the same structure as that of the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw42side except that the second cogs408bare formed on the upper surface in the vertical direction of the locking claw41(that is, the engagement surface that engages with the lower end surface in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104in the battery housing101) and that the second cogs408bare aligned in the short-side direction.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms408having the structure described above cause the first cog408ato engage with one of the second cogs408b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw41side moves the locking claw41and the plate-like portion341ain the direction closer to the battery housing101and thrusts the locking claw41as much as possible. The locking force adjustment mechanism408thus relatively increases the force of the locking claw41engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanism408can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claw41locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state. Similarly, the locking force adjustment mechanism408on the locking claw42side moves the locking claw42and the plate-like portion342ain the direction closer to the battery housing101and thrusts the locking claw42as much as possible. The locking force adjustment mechanism408thus relatively increases the force of the locking claw42engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanism408can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claw42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state.

In the fuse unit401, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit401receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit401, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit401can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit401around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit401can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit401can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit401causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms408to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit401can attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit401, the locking claws41and42are formed separately from the protector3and supported by the protector3in a manner capable of moving closer to and away from the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanisms408each include the first cog408aand the second cogs408b. The first cog408ais formed on one of the battery housing101side and the locking claws41and42side. The second cogs408bare formed on the other of the battery housing101side and the locking claws41and42side in a manner aligned in the direction closer to or away from the battery housing101. The first cog408aengages with one of the second cogs408b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101and relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit401uses the mechanism that the first cog408aengages with one of the second cogs408bin the locking force adjustment mechanisms408, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claws41and42toward the side away from the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit401relatively increases the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. The fuse unit401thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state. As a result, the fuse unit401can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit401can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms408.

In the description above, the first cog408ais formed on the locking claws41and42, and the second cogs408bare formed on the battery housing101in the locking force adjustment mechanisms408. Alternatively, the first cog408amay be formed on the battery housing101, and the second cogs408bmay be formed on the locking claws41and42. In the locking force adjustment mechanisms408, the first cog408amay be provided in plurality in a manner aligned in the direction closer to or away from the battery housing101.

As illustrated in the modification inFIG. 24, the locking force adjustment mechanisms408may be used in the fuse unit201to provide a fuse unit401A. Also in this case, the fuse unit401A can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 25is a partial perspective view illustrating a part near a locking mechanism of a fuse unit according to a fifth embodiment.FIG. 26is a partial side view of the part near the locking mechanism of the fuse unit according to the fifth embodiment viewed in the short-side direction.FIG. 27is a partial side view of the part near the locking mechanism of the fuse unit according to the fifth embodiment viewed in the long-side direction.FIG. 28is a partial perspective view illustrating the part near the locking mechanism of a fuse unit according to a modification. The fuse unit according to the fifth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the structure of the locking mechanism. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 25, 26, and 27, a fuse unit501according to the present embodiment includes the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, a locking mechanism504, and the coupling bus bar5.

The locking mechanism504locks the protector3onto the post standing surface105. The locking mechanism504according to the present embodiment includes couplers541and542. The couplers541and542couple the mounting tray108serving as a member to be coupled to the protector3, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. As described above, the mounting tray108is a member provided on the lower side in the vertical direction of the battery100and used to mount the battery100at a predetermined position in a vehicle. In other words, the mounting tray108is a fixing member different from the battery housing101and fixed to a predetermined position in a vehicle.

The couplers541and542are belt-like members provided separately from the protector3. The couplers541and542are made of an insulating resin material and formed into a plate shape. In the attached state, the coupler541couples the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31of the protector3to the mounting tray108. In the attached state, the coupler542couples the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31of the protector3to the mounting tray108.

The coupling form of the couplers541and542to the base portion31and the coupling form of the couplers541and542to the mounting tray108may be various coupling forms. In the present embodiment, the couplers541and542are coupled to the mounting tray108with their lower ends in the vertical direction fastened to the mounting tray108by bolts541aand542a, respectively. The upper ends in the vertical direction of the couplers541and542are inserted into engagement holes531eand531f, respectively, formed at the edge along the long-side direction and the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31. The couplers541and542cause engaging claws541band542bformed at the upper ends in the vertical direction to engage with the edges of the engagement holes531eand531f, respectively, thereby coupling the upper ends in the vertical direction to the base portion31. The couplers541and542extend in the vertical direction with the base portion31of the protector3coupled to the mounting tray108. The locking mechanism504causes the couplers541and542to couple the base portion31of the protector3to the mounting tray108with the protector3attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism504can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit501, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit501receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit501, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit501can cause the locking mechanism504to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit501around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit501can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit501can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

The fuse unit501can cause the locking mechanism504to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2.

In the fuse unit501, the locking mechanism504includes the couplers541and542that couple the mounting tray108serving as a member to be coupled other than the battery housing101to the protector3, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. The fuse unit501causes the couplers541and542to couple the protector3to the mounting tray108, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Consequently, the fuse unit501can increase the versatility and absorb the tolerance by the couplers541and542.

While the member to be coupled other than the battery housing101is the mounting tray108in the description above, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The member to be coupled simply needs to be able to support and reliably lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105with the couplers541and542. The member to be coupled may be a structural member of a vehicle, for example.

The coupling form of the couplers541and542to the protector3and the mounting tray108is not limited to the form described above. The couplers541and542, for example, may be coupled to the base portion31of the protector3with their upper ends in the vertical direction fastened to the base portion31by bolts or the like. The couplers541and542, for example, may be coupled to the mounting tray108with their lower ends in the vertical direction inserted into a gap between the mounting tray108and the housing body103and pressed against the mounting tray108by an elastic member or the like.

As illustrated in the modification inFIG. 28, the locking mechanism504may be used in the fuse unit201to provide a fuse unit501A. Also in this case, the fuse unit501A causes the couplers541and542to couple the protector3to the mounting tray108, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. Consequently, the fuse unit501A can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

Sixth Embodiment

FIG. 29is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a sixth embodiment.FIG. 30is a partial perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the sixth embodiment.FIG. 31is a partial sectional view including a wedge member of the fuse unit according to the sixth embodiment. The fuse unit according to the sixth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in the structure of the locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 29, 30, and 31, a fuse unit601according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms608. The locking force adjustment mechanisms608can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3via the plate-like portions (arm portions)41aand42a, respectively, extending in the vertical direction in the attached state. The locking claws41and42engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104in the battery housing101. The locking mechanism4causes the locking claws41and42to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104at predetermined positions when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism4can fix and lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms608according to the present embodiment are provided to a part corresponding to the locking claw41and a part corresponding to the locking claw42. The partial sectional view inFIG. 31illustrates the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw42side. Because the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw41side has substantially the same structure as that on the locking claw42side, illustration thereof is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms608each include a wedge member608ainterposed between the protector3and the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanisms608each have an insertion hole608bthat enables the wedge member608ato be inserted between the protector3and the battery housing101.

The wedge members608aeach have a rectangular rod-shaped base portion608cand a wedge portion608dformed integrally with the base portion608c. The wedge portion608dprotrudes from the base portion608cserving as the proximal end and has a tapered shape toward the distal end. The wedge portion608dextends from the base portion608cin a manner divided into three. The insertion holes608bare formed at parts where the plate-like portions41aand42aintersect with the base portion31.

More specifically, the insertion hole608bof the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw41side is formed at a connection part between the plate-like portion41aand the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31. The insertion hole608bof the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw41side is formed at a position where the wedge portion608dof the wedge member608acan be inserted into the insertion hole608bin the short-side direction and where the distal end of the wedge portion608dis inserted between the lid member104of the battery housing101and the base portion31(refer toFIG. 31and other figures).

Similarly, the insertion hole608bof the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw42side is formed at a connection part between the plate-like portion42aand the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31. The insertion hole608bof the locking force adjustment mechanism608on the locking claw42side is formed at a position where the wedge portion608dof the wedge member608acan be inserted into the insertion hole608bin the long-side direction and where the distal end of the wedge portion608dis inserted between the lid member104of the battery housing101and the base portion31(refer toFIG. 31and other figures).

The insertion holes608bare formed into the following shape, when the wedge members608aare thrusted most, the entire wedge members608aare fit in the respective insertion holes608b(refer toFIGS. 30 and 31and other figures).

In the locking force adjustment mechanisms608having the structure described above, as illustrated inFIGS. 29 and 30, the wedge members608aare inserted into the respective insertion holes608b, and the distal ends of the respective wedge members608aare interposed between the base portion31of the protector3and the lid member104of the battery housing101. The wedge members608athus can relatively move the protector3with respect to the lid member104in a manner lifting the protector3in the vertical direction. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms608can reliably thrust, toward the upper side in the vertical direction, the locking claws41and42formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3against the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104. Consequently, the locking force adjustment mechanisms608can relatively increase the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanisms608causes the wedge members608ato be interposed between the protector3and the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit601, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit601receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit601, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit601can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit601around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit601can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit601can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit601causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms608to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit601can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit601, the locking claws41and42are formed integrally with the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms608each include the wedge member608ainterposed between the protector3and the battery housing101. The wedge members608aare interposed between the protector3and the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit601causes the wedge members608ato be interposed between the protector3and the battery housing101in the locking force adjustment mechanisms608, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42. As a result, the fuse unit601can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit601can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms608.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms608may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Seventh Embodiment

FIG. 32is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a seventh embodiment.FIG. 33is a partial perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the seventh embodiment.FIG. 34is a partial sectional view including the wedge member of the fuse unit according to the seventh embodiment. The fuse unit according to the seventh embodiment is different from the sixth embodiment in the insertion direction of the wedge member. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 32, 33, and 34, a fuse unit701according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, a locking mechanism704, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms708. The locking force adjustment mechanisms708can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism704locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the locking claws41and42of the locking mechanism704according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3via the plate-like portions (arm portions)41aand42a, respectively, extending in the vertical direction in the attached state. The locking mechanism704according to the present embodiment further has a back surface protruding portion745at the distal end of the locking claws41and42(refer toFIG. 34). As illustrated inFIG. 34, for example, the back surface protruding portion745is formed as a protrusion protruding in the vertical direction (axial direction) at the distal end of the locking claw42. The locking claw41also has a back surface protruding portion745, which is not illustrated, similar to that of the locking claw42. In the locking mechanism704, the locking claws41and42engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104as follows: the lower end in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104is sandwiched between the back surface protruding portion745of the locking claw42and the plate-like portion42ain the long-side direction, and the lower end in the vertical direction of the edge of the lid member104is sandwiched between the back surface protruding portion745of the locking claw41and the plate-like portion41ain the short-side direction. The locking mechanism704causes the locking claws41and42to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104at predetermined positions when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism704can fix and lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms708according to the present embodiment are provided to a part corresponding to the locking claw41and a part corresponding to the locking claw42. The partial sectional view inFIG. 34illustrates the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw42side. Because the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw41side has substantially the same structure as that on the locking claw42side, illustration thereof is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms708each include the wedge member608ainterposed between a member formed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanisms708each have an insertion hole708bthat enables the wedge member608ato be inserted between the member formed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101. The wedge member608ahas the same structure as that of the wedge member608aof the locking force adjustment mechanisms608. The insertion holes708bare formed at parts where the plate-like portions41aand42aintersect with the base portion31.

More specifically, the insertion hole708bof the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw41side is formed at a connection part between the plate-like portion41aand the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31. The insertion hole708bof the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw41side is formed at a position where the wedge portion608dof the wedge member608acan be inserted into the insertion hole708bin the axial direction (vertical direction) and where the distal end of the wedge portion608dis inserted between the lid member104of the battery housing101and the plate-like portion41aserving as the member formed integrally with the base portion31(refer toFIG. 34and other figures).

Similarly, the insertion hole708bof the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw42side is formed at a connection part between the plate-like portion42aand the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31. The insertion hole708bof the locking force adjustment mechanism708on the locking claw42side is formed at a position where the wedge portion608dof the wedge member608acan be inserted into the insertion hole708bin the axial direction (vertical direction) and where the distal end of the wedge portion608dis inserted between the lid member104of the battery housing101and the plate-like portion42aserving as the member formed integrally with the base portion31(refer toFIG. 34and other figures).

The insertion holes708bare formed into the following shape: when the wedge members608aare thrusted most, the entire wedge members608aare fit in the respective insertion holes708b(refer toFIGS. 33 and 34and other figures).

In the locking force adjustment mechanisms708having the structure described above, as illustrated inFIGS. 32 and 33, the wedge members608aare inserted into the respective insertion holes708b, and the distal ends of the respective wedge members608aare interposed between the plate-like portions41aand42aserving as the member formed integrally with the base portion31of the protector3and the lid member104of the battery housing101. The wedge members608athus can relatively move the protector3in the long-side direction or the short-side direction with respect to the lid member104. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms708can reliably thrust the back surface protruding portions745of the locking claws41and42formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3against the lower ends in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104. Consequently, the locking force adjustment mechanisms708can relatively increase the force of the back surface protruding portions745of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanisms708causes the wedge members608ato be interposed between the plate-like portions41aand42aformed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit701described above, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit701receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit701, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit701can cause the locking mechanism704to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit701around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit701can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit701can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit701causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms708to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit701can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit701, the locking claws41and42are formed integrally with the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms708each include the wedge member608ainterposed between the plate-like portion41aand42aformed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101. The wedge members608aare interposed between the plate-like portion41aand42aformed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit701causes the wedge members608ato be interposed between the plate-like portion41aand42aformed integrally with the protector3and the battery housing101in the locking force adjustment mechanisms708, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42. As a result, the fuse unit701can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit701can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms708.

The locking force adjustment mechanism708may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Eighth Embodiment

FIG. 35is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to an eighth embodiment.FIG. 36is a partial perspective view illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the eighth embodiment.FIG. 37is a partial sectional view including a screw member of the fuse unit according to the eighth embodiment. The fuse unit according to the eighth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in the structure of the locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 35, 36, and 37, a fuse unit801according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms808. The locking force adjustment mechanisms808can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3via the plate-like portions (arm portions)41aand42a, respectively, extending in the vertical direction in the attached state. The locking claws41and42engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104in the battery housing101. In the locking mechanism4, the locking claws41and42engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104at predetermined positions when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism4can fix and lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms808according to the present embodiment each include a screw member808ascrewed into the protector3. Along with the screwing motion, the distal end of the screw member808acomes into contact with the battery housing101, and the screw member808apresses the battery housing101such that the protector3moves away from the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanisms808each have a screw hole808bformed on the protector3and into which the screw member808acan be screwed.

In the attached state, four screw holes808bare formed in total: one screw hole808bformed at the external corner where the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31intersects with the edge along the short-side direction, one screw hole808bformed apart from the screw hole808bat the corner in the long-side direction, and two screw holes808bformed apart from the screw hole808bat the corner in the short-side direction at evenly spaced intervals. The screw holes808bare bored through the base portion31and each have a screw groove with which the screw member808acan engage on the inner peripheral surface. The screw member808ais a bolt, for example, and four screw members808aare provided in total for the respective four screw holes808b. In the locking force adjustment mechanisms808according to the present embodiment, one screw member808aand one screw hole808bserve as a pair, and four pairs of the screw member808aand the screw hole808bare provided in total.

In the locking force adjustment mechanisms808having the structure described above, the screw members808aare screwed into the respective screw holes808bformed on the protector3. Along with the screwing motion, the distal ends of the screw members808acome into contact with the upper surface in the vertical direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, and the screw members808apress the lid member104such that the protector3moves away from the lid member104. The screw members808athus can relatively move the protector3with respect to the lid member104in a manner lifting the protector3in the vertical direction. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms808can reliably thrust, toward the upper side in the vertical direction, the locking claws41and42formed integrally with the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3against the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104. Consequently, the locking force adjustment mechanisms808can relatively increase the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanisms808causes the screw members808ato press the battery housing101such that the protector3moves away from the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit801described above, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit801receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit801, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit801can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit801around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit801can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit801can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit801causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms808to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit801can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit801, the locking claws41and42are formed integrally with the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms808each include the screw member808ascrewed into the protector3. Along with the screwing motion, the distal end of the screw member808acomes into contact with the battery housing101, and the screw member808apresses the battery housing101such that the protector3moves away from the battery housing101. The screw member808apresses the battery housing101such that the protector3moves away from the battery housing101, thereby relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit801causes the screw members808ascrewed into the protector3to press the battery housing101in the locking force adjustment mechanisms808, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42. As a result, the fuse unit801can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit801can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms808.

The locking force adjustment mechanism808may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Ninth Embodiment

FIG. 38is a partial perspective view illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a ninth embodiment.FIG. 39is a partial sectional view including the locking claw of the fuse unit according to the ninth embodiment. The fuse unit according to the ninth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in the structure of the locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 38 and 39, a fuse unit901according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5, locking force adjustment mechanisms908. The locking force adjustment mechanisms908can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed separately from the protector3. More specifically, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with plate-like portions (arm portions)941aand942a, respectively, at the distal ends of the plate-like portions941aand942a. The plate-like portions941aand942aare formed separately from the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3. The locking claws41and42have a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal ends (ends on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the plate-like portions941aand942a, respectively (refer toFIG. 39and other figures). The plate-like portions941aand942ahave brackets941cand942c, respectively, formed integrally therewith on the main surface. The plate-like portions941aand942aare coupled to the base portion31of the protector3via the brackets941cand942c, respectively, and a coupling member908a, which will be described later.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms908according to the present embodiment are provided to the locking claw41side and the locking claw42side. The enlarged partial sectional view inFIG. 39illustrates the locking force adjustment mechanism908on the locking claw42side. Because the locking force adjustment mechanism908on the locking claw41side has substantially the same structure as that on the locking claw42side, illustration thereof is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms908each include the coupling member908athat couples the protector3to the locking claws41and42and can change the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42along with rotation about the axis. The coupling member908ais a bolt, for example. The coupling members908aare supported by receiving portions931gand931hformed on the base portion31. The receiving portion931gsupports the coupling member908aof the locking force adjustment mechanism908on the locking claw41side. The receiving portion931gis formed at the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31correspondingly to the locking claw41. The receiving portion931hsupports the coupling member908aof the locking force adjustment mechanism908on the locking claw42side. The receiving portion931his formed at the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31correspondingly to the locking claw42. The receiving portions931gand931hsupport the respective coupling members908ain a manner rotatable about the rotation axis extending in the vertical direction (axial direction). When the coupling members908aare supported by the receiving portions931gand931h, the bolt heads are positioned on the receiving portions931gand931h, and the shafts having a screw groove extend toward the lower side in the vertical direction. The brackets941cand942care provided with nuts908b, and the distal ends (ends on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the coupling members908aengage with the respective nuts908b. As a result, the coupling members908acan couple the locking claws41and42to the base portion31of the protector3via the brackets941cand942cand the plate-like portions941aand942a, respectively.

In the attached state and in a state where the locking claw41and the plate-like portion941aare coupled to the base portion31by the coupling member908a, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion941aare arranged at a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion941aextend in the long-side direction, and the coupling member908aextends in the vertical direction. In the attached state and in a state where the locking claw42and the plate-like portion942aare coupled to the base portion31by the coupling member908a, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion942aare arranged at a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion942aextend in the short-side direction, and the coupling member908aextends in the vertical direction.

In the locking force adjustment mechanisms908having the structure described above, the coupling members908acouple the protector3to the locking claws41and42and are rotated about the axis, thereby changing the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42. In the locking force adjustment mechanisms908, for example, the coupling members908aare rotated in a predetermined direction, thereby making the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42relatively small. In other words, the coupling members908acan lift the locking claws41and42toward the upper side in the vertical direction, thereby relatively moving the locking claws41and42closer to the protector3. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms908can reliably thrust, toward the upper side in the vertical direction, the locking claws41and42against the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104. Consequently, the locking force adjustment mechanisms908can relatively increase the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104. The locking force adjustment mechanisms908thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

In the fuse unit901described above, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit901receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit901, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit901can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit901around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit901can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit901can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit901causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms908to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit901can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit901, the locking claws41and42are formed separately from the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms908each include the coupling member908athat couples the protector3to the locking claws41and42and can change the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42along with rotation about the axis. The coupling members908amake the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42relatively small, thereby relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit901causes the coupling members908ain the locking force adjustment mechanisms908to make the gap between the protector3and the locking claws41and42relatively small, thereby relatively increasing the locking force of the locking claws41and42. As a result, the fuse unit901can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit901can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms908.

The locking force adjustment mechanism908may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Tenth Embodiment

FIGS. 40 and 42are partial perspective views illustrating a part near a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to a tenth embodiment.FIGS. 41 and 43are partial side views illustrating the part near the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the tenth embodiment. The fuse unit according to the tenth embodiment is different from the third embodiment in the structure of the locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 40 to 43, a fuse unit1001according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2(refer toFIG. 1and other figures), the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4, and the coupling bus bar5(refer toFIG. 1and other figures), locking force adjustment mechanisms1008. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008can adjust the locking force of the locking claws41and42in the locking mechanism4locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed separately from the protector3. More specifically, the locking claws41and42according to the present embodiment are formed integrally with plate-like portions (arm portions)1041aand1042a, respectively, at the distal ends of the plate-like portions1041aand1042a. The plate-like portions1041aand1042aare formed separately from the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3. The locking claws41and42have a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal ends (ends on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the plate-like portions1041aand1042a, respectively (refer toFIGS. 41 and 43and other figures).

The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008according to the present embodiment are provided to the locking claw41side and the locking claw42side.FIGS. 40, 41, 42, and43illustrate the locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw42side. Because the locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw41side has substantially the same structure as that on the locking claw42side, illustration thereof is omitted.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008each include a flat lever1008acoupled to a shaft1008bprovided to the locking claws41and42side in a manner rotatable about the shaft1008b. The outer surface of the flat lever1008ais in contact with the protector3, and the flat lever1008achanges the distance from the contact position with the protector3to the shaft1008balong with rotation about the shaft1008b. The shafts1008bare provided on the upper ends (ends on the upper side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the plate-like portions1041aand1042aformed integrally with the locking claws41and42, respectively. More specifically, the plate-like portions1041aand1042aeach have a protruding end1008cprotruding toward the upper side in the vertical direction from the end surface on the upper side in the vertical direction. The shafts1008bare provided on the upper ends in the vertical direction of the respective protruding ends1008c. The protruding ends1008care inserted into respective through holes1008dformed on the base portion31of the protector3. The through hole1008dof the locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw42side is formed at the edge along the short-side direction of the base portion31correspondingly to the locking claw42. The through hole1008dof the locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw41side, which is not illustrated, is formed at the edge along the long-side direction of the base portion31correspondingly to the locking claw41. The through holes1008dare bored through the base portion31in the vertical direction. The protruding ends1008care inserted into the respective through holes1008d. In this state, the shafts1008bare positioned on the upper side in the vertical direction of the respective through holes1008d, and the portions on the locking claws41and42side extend toward the lower side in the vertical direction. The flat levers1008aare coupled to the respective shafts1008bin a manner rotatable about the shafts1008b. The locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw42side has components, such as the shaft1008b, arranged in a positional relation where the rotation axis of the flat lever1008aextends in the short-side direction. Similarly, the locking force adjustment mechanism1008on the locking claw41side, which is not illustrated, has components, such as the shaft1008b, arranged in a positional relation where the rotation axis of the flat lever1008aextends in the long-side direction. The flat levers1008amay be made of resin or metal.

In the attached state and in a state where the plate-like portion1042ais attached to the flat lever1008avia the shaft1008b, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion1042aare arranged at a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the short-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw42and the plate-like portion1042aextend in the short-side direction. In the attached state and in a state where the plate-like portion1041ais attached to the flat lever1008avia the shaft1008b, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion1041a, which are not illustrated, are arranged at a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction of the lid member104of the battery housing101, that is, a position facing the side surface along the long-side direction near the recess106formed on the post standing surface105of the lid member104in the present embodiment. In this state, the locking claw41and the plate-like portion1041aextend in the long-side direction.

The flat levers1008aare formed by curving a plate-like member (partially having a slit in the present embodiment). The flat levers1008aare coupled to the respective shafts1008b, and the outer surface of the curved part is in contact with the upper surface in the vertical direction of the base portion31of the protector3. The curvature of the curved part is set such that the distance from the contact position with the base portion31to the shaft1008bchanges when the flat levers1008arotate about the respective shafts1008b. The flat levers1008aaccording to the present embodiment are designed as follows: when being rotated toward one side, the distance from the contact position to the shaft1008bgradually increases, and when being rotated toward the other side, the distance from the contact position to the shaft1008bgradually decreases.

The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008having the structure described above make the distance from the contact position with the base portion31to the shafts1008brelatively long along with rotation of the flat levers1008aabout the shafts1008b, thereby making the locking claws41and42closer to the base portion31of the protector3. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. Specifically, in the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008, the distance from the contact position with the base portion31to the shaft1008bis relatively small in the state illustrated inFIGS. 40 and 41, for example. From this state, the flat lever1008ais rotated (rotated to be pulled down) to make the distance from the contact position with the base portion31to the shaft1008brelatively long as illustrated inFIGS. 42 and 43. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008can lift the respective shafts1008btoward the upper side in the vertical direction with respect to the base portion31. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008thus can lift the locking claws41and42formed integrally with the plate-like portions1041aand1042a, respectively, provided with the shafts1008btoward the upper side in the vertical direction, thereby relatively moving the locking claws41and42closer to the protector3. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008can reliably thrust, toward the upper side in the vertical direction, the locking claws41and42against the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges of the lid member104. Consequently, the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008can relatively increase the force of the locking claws41and42engaging with the lid member104. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42.

In the fuse unit1001described above, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit1001receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit1001, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit1001can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit1001around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit1001can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit1001can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit1001causes the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. Consequently, the fuse unit1001can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

In the fuse unit1001described above, the locking claws41and42are formed separately from the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008each include the flat lever1008acoupled to the shaft1008bprovided to the locking claws41and42side in a manner rotatable about the shaft1008b. The outer surface of the flat lever1008ais in contact with the protector3, and the flat lever1008achanges the distance from the contact position with the protector3to the shaft1008balong with rotation about the shaft1008b. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008make the distance from the contact position to the shaft1008brelatively long along with rotation of the flat lever1008aabout the shaft1008b, thereby making the locking claws41and42closer to the protector3and relatively increasing the locking force. In the fuse unit1001, the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008make the distance from the contact position to the shaft1008brelatively long along with rotation of the flat lever1008aabout the shaft1008b, thereby making the locking claws41and42closer to the protector3. The locking force adjustment mechanisms1008thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws41and42. As a result, the fuse unit1001can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws41and42fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit1001can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanisms1008.

The locking force adjustment mechanism1008may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably.

Eleventh Embodiment

FIG. 44is a partial plan view including a locking force adjustment mechanism of a fuse unit according to an eleventh embodiment.FIG. 45is a partial sectional view including the locking force adjustment mechanism of the fuse unit according to the eleventh embodiment. The fuse unit according to the eleventh embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the positions where the locking claws of the locking mechanism are provided and in that it further includes the locking force adjustment mechanisms. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 44 and 45, a fuse unit1101according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2, the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, a locking mechanism1104, and the coupling bus bar5, a locking force adjustment mechanism1108. The locking force adjustment mechanism1108can adjust the locking force of the locking claw42and a locking claw1143in the locking mechanism1104locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking mechanism1104locks the protector3onto the post standing surface105. The locking mechanism1104according to the present embodiment includes the locking claws42and1143that engage with the battery housing101, thereby locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105. The locking claws42and1143engage with two surfaces opposite to each other in the battery housing101, that is, two surfaces extending in the short-side direction in the present embodiment. As described above, the locking claw42is formed integrally with the base portion31of the protector3via the plate-like portion42aextending in the vertical direction in the attached state.

By contrast, the locking claw1143according to the present embodiment is connected to the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3via a support1143a. The support1143ahas a main body1143band a curved portion1143c. The main body1143bextends in the long-side direction from the base portion31and the holding portion32in the attached state. The curved portion1143cextends toward the lower side in the vertical direction from the end opposite to the end on the protector3side (the base portion31and the holding portion32) of the main body1143b.

The main body1143bis divided into a first divided body1143dand a second divided body1143e. One of the first divided body1143dand the second divided body1143eis formed into a plate shape, and the other thereof is formed into a tubular shape. In the present embodiment, the first divided body1143dis formed into a plate shape, and the second divided body1143eis formed into a tubular shape. A first end of the first divided body1143dis integrally connected to the base portion31and the holding portion32of the protector3. A first end of the second divided body1143eis integrally connected to the curved portion1143c. In the first divided body1143dand the second divided body1143e, a second end of the first divided body1143dis inserted into a second end of the second divided body1143e. As a result, the second ends are connected to each other via the locking force adjustment mechanism1108, which will be described later.

The locking claw1143according to the present embodiment is formed integrally with the curved portion1143cat the distal end (end on the lower side in the vertical direction when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100) of the curved portion1143cof the support1143a. The locking claw1143has a hook shape or a curved shape formed by bending the distal end of the curved portion1143c. The locking claws42and1143engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the edges along the short-side direction of the lid member104in the battery housing101.

In other words, the locking claw42serves as a first locking claw formed integrally with the protector3. By contrast, the locking claw1143serves as a second locking claw formed separately from the protector3and engages with the surface opposite to the surface with which the locking claw42engage in the battery housing101. In other words, the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are in a positional relation opposite to each other in the long-side direction. The locking mechanism1104causes the locking claws42and1143to engage with the lower end surfaces in the vertical direction of the lid member104at predetermined positions when the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105of the battery100. As a result, the locking mechanism1104can fix and lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105.

The locking force adjustment mechanism1108according to the present embodiment has a first cog1108aand a plurality of second cogs1108b. The first cog1108ais formed on one of the locking claw42side and the locking claw1143side. The second cogs1108bare formed on the other of the locking claw42side and the locking claw1143side in a manner aligned in a direction in which the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are opposite to each other.

In the locking force adjustment mechanism1108, as illustrated inFIG. 45and other figures, the first cog1108ais provided on the first divided body1143dof the support1143aformed integrally with the locking claw42. The second cogs1108bare provided on the second divided body1143eof the support1143aformed integrally with the locking claw1143.

The first cogs1108aare provided on respective surfaces opposite to each other in the first divided body1143d, that is, a pair of end surfaces extending in the long-side direction and opposite to each other in the short-side direction in the present embodiment. The first cog1108ais formed as a protruding cog protruding from the first divided body1143d. Sets of second cogs1108bare provided on respective surfaces facing the surface on which the first cog1108ais formed in the first divided body1143dout of the inner surfaces of the second divided body1143e. In other words, the sets of the second cogs1108bare provided on a pair of inner surfaces extending in the long-side direction and facing each other in the short-side direction. The second cogs1108bare formed as protruding cogs protruding from the second divided body1143e. The second cogs1108bare formed in each set in a manner aligned in the direction in which the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are opposite to each other, that is, in the long-side direction.

The first cog1108aand the second cogs1108bare formed into the following sectional shape: when the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are moved in the directions closer to each other and moved in the directions sandwiching the battery housing101therebetween, the second cogs1108bclimb over the first cog1108a; and when the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are moved in the directions away from each other and tried to be moved in the directions away from the battery housing101, one of the second cogs1108bcomes into contact with the first cog1108a, thereby restricting relative movement between the locking claw42and the locking claw1143.

In the locking force adjustment mechanism1108having the structure described above, the first cog1108aengages with one of the second cogs1108b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claw42and the locking claw1143toward the sides away from each other. By using the mechanism described above, the locking force adjustment mechanism1108makes the locking claw42and the locking claw1143closer to each other as much as possible, thereby relatively increasing the force of the locking claw42and the locking claw1143sandwiching the lid member104of the battery housing101. As a result, the locking force adjustment mechanism1108can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claw42and the locking claw1143locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state.

In the fuse unit1101described above, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit1101receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit1101, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit1101can cause the locking mechanism1104to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit1101around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit1101can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit1101can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

After the protector3is attached onto the post standing surface105, the fuse unit1101causes the locking force adjustment mechanism1108to relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws42and1143. Consequently, the fuse unit1101can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2more reliably.

The fuse unit1101includes the locking claw42and the locking claw1143. The locking claw42serves as a first locking claw formed integrally with the protector3. The locking claw1143serves as a second locking claw that is formed separately from the protector3and that engages with the surface opposite to the surface with which the locking claw42engages in the battery housing101. The locking force adjustment mechanism1108has the first cog1108aand the second cogs1108b. The first cog1108ais formed on one of the locking claw42side and the locking claw1143side. The second cogs1108bare formed on the other of the locking claw42side and the locking claw1143side in a manner aligned in the direction in which the locking claw42and the locking claw1143are opposite to each other. The first cog1108aengages with one of the second cogs1108b, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claw42and the locking claw1143toward the sides away from each other and relatively increasing the locking force. The fuse unit1101uses the mechanism that the first cog1108aengages with one of the second cogs1108bin the locking force adjustment mechanism1108, thereby restricting the movement of the locking claw42and the locking claw1143toward the sides away from each other. Consequently, the fuse unit1101relatively increases the force of the locking claws42and1143engaging with the lid member104of the battery housing101. The fuse unit1101thus can relatively increase the locking force of the locking claws42and1143locking the protector3onto the post standing surface105and maintain this state. As a result, the fuse unit1101can relatively strengthen the force (that is, the locking force) of the locking claws42and1143fastening the lid member104of the battery housing101. Consequently, the fuse unit1101can lock the protector3onto the post standing surface105more reliably and absorb the tolerance by the locking force adjustment mechanism1108.

Twelfth Embodiment

FIG. 46is a perspective view of the protector of a fuse unit according to a twelfth embodiment.FIG. 47is a partial sectional perspective view including a protector positioning mechanism of the fuse unit according to the twelfth embodiment. The fuse unit according to the twelfth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that it further includes a holding mechanism positioning mechanism. Overlapping explanation of other components, actions, and effects common to the embodiments above will be omitted as much as possible. The schematic configuration will be described with reference to other figures as appropriate.

As illustrated inFIGS. 46 and 47, a fuse unit1201according to the present embodiment includes, in addition to the fusible link2(refer toFIG. 1and other figures), the protector3serving as the holding mechanism, the locking mechanism4(refer toFIG. 1and other figures), and the coupling bus bar5(refer toFIG. 1and other figures), a protector positioning mechanism1209serving as the holding mechanism positioning mechanism.

The protector positioning mechanism1209positions the protector3at a predetermined position on the post standing surface105. The protector positioning mechanism1209has a recess1209band a protrusion1209a. The recess1209bis formed on one of the post standing surface105and the protector3. The protrusion1209ais provided on the other of the post standing surface105and the protector3and fit into the recess1209b. In the present embodiment, two protrusions1209aare provided on the back surface (surface opposite to the accommodation space32c) of the bottom surface32aof the holding portion32on the protector3. Two recesses1209bare formed on the post standing surface105on the side in the long-side direction of the recess106(refer toFIG. 2, for example). The protrusions1209aand the recesses1209bare formed into a cylindrical shape and extend in the axial direction (vertical direction).

In the protector positioning mechanism1209, the protrusions1209aare fit into the respective recesses1209b, thereby positioning the protector3at the predetermined position on the post standing surface105. As a result, the protector positioning mechanism1209can prevent misalignment of the protector3in the horizontal direction (the long-side direction and the short-side direction) intersecting with the vertical direction (axial direction). The protector positioning mechanism1209thus positions the battery terminal110at a position where the battery terminal110can be fastened to the battery post102on the base portion31. The predetermined position on the post standing surface105is a position where at least part of the holding portion32is positioned on the post standing surface105and places and holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105when the protector3is attached to the battery100in a positional relation where the battery post102is inserted into the post insertion hole31aof the base portion31and where the base portion31is positioned in the recess106.

In the fuse unit1201, the holding portion32formed next to the base portion31of the protector3holds the fusible link2above the post standing surface105of the battery housing101. As a result, the fuse unit1201receives the load of the fusible link2on the post standing surface105. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal110from the fuse unit1201, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post102. At this time, the fuse unit1201can cause the locking mechanism4to reliably attach the protector3onto the post standing surface105together with the fusible link2. Even if there is no space for the fuse unit1201around the side surfaces of the battery housing101, the fuse unit1201can secure its installation space on the post standing surface105(upper surface in the vertical direction) of the battery housing101and arrange the fusible link2thereon. Consequently, the fuse unit1201can appropriately provide the fusible link2.

The fuse unit1201includes the protector positioning mechanism1209that positions the protector3on the post standing surface105. The protector positioning mechanism1209has the recess1209band the protrusion1209a. The recess1209bis formed on one of the post standing surface105and the protector3. The protrusion1209ais provided on the other of the post standing surface105and the protector3and fit into the recess1209b. In the fuse unit1201, the protrusion1209aof the protector positioning mechanism1209is fit into the recess1209b, thereby positioning the protector3at an appropriate position on the post standing surface105and preventing misalignment of the protector3.

While the protrusion1209ais provided on the protector3, and the recess1209bis formed on the post standing surface105in the description above, the protrusion1209amay be provided on the post standing surface105, and the recess1209bmay be formed on the protector3. While two protrusions1209aand two recesses1209bare provided in the description above, the number of protrusions1209aand recesses1209bmay be one or three or more.

The protector positioning mechanism1209may be used in the fuse unit201. Also in this case, the fuse unit201can position the protector3at an appropriate position on the post standing surface105and prevent misalignment of the protector3.

The fuse units according to the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments above, and various changes may be made within the scope described in claims. The fuse unit according to the present embodiment may be provided by combining the components according to the embodiments and the modifications above as appropriate.

While the fuse elements21and the stud bolts22in the fusible link2are buried and integrally formed in the housing23by insert molding or other processing in the description above, the present embodiment is not limited thereto.

While the holding portion32of the protector3is formed integrally with the base portion31next to the base portion31in the long-side direction in the description above, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The holding portion32may be formed integrally with the base portion31next to the base portion31in the short-side direction

While the fuse units described above are used in the battery100having the recess106on the post standing surface105, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. The fuse units may be used in a battery without the recess106and having a planar post standing surface105. In this case, the base portion31, the holding portion32, the coupling bus bar5, and other components in the fuse units are formed in a substantially planar shape.

In the fuse unit according to the present embodiments, the holding portion formed next to the base portion of the holding mechanism holds the fusible link above the post standing surface of the battery housing. As a result, the fuse unit receives the load of the fusible link on the post standing surface. This structure can suppress the load acting on the battery terminal from the fuse unit, thereby suppressing the load acting on the battery post. At this time, the fuse unit can cause the locking mechanism to reliably attach the protector onto the post standing surface together with the fusible link.