WIRE HARNESS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING WIRE HARNESS

A wire harness including: a first wire that is electrically connectable to a first connector installed in a vehicle; a second wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a third wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a connection where the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other; a tubular first shield that surrounds an outer periphery of the connection and an outer periphery of the first wire; and a tubular second shield that surrounds an outer periphery of a portion of the first shield and an outer periphery of the second wire, the portion of the first shield surrounding the outer periphery of the connection.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a wire harness and a method for manufacturing a wire harness.

Wire harnesses that include tubular shield members that collectively surround outer peripheries of a plurality of wires are conventionally known as wire harnesses installed inside vehicles such as hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles (see JP 2004-171952A, for example). The shield members have an electromagnetic shielding function of suppressing the radiation of electromagnetic waves from wires to the outside of the wire harnesses.

SUMMARY

There is demand for suppressing a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance of the wire harnesses described above, and there is still room for improvement in this respect.

An exemplary aspect of the disclosure provides a wire harness that can suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance.

A wire harness according to the present disclosure includes: a first wire that is electrically connectable to a first connector installed in a vehicle; a second wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a third wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a connection where the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other; a tubular first shield that surrounds an outer periphery of the connection and an outer periphery of the first wire; and a tubular second shield that surrounds an outer periphery of a portion of the first shield and an outer periphery of the second wire, the portion of the first shield surrounding the outer periphery of the connection.

A method for manufacturing a wire harness according to the present disclosure includes: forming a wire assembly that includes a first wire, a second wire, a third wire, and a connection where the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other; housing the wire assembly in its entirety in a tubular first shield; forming a first opening in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the first shield; forming a first structure by drawing a second-wire-side second end of the second wire to an outside of the first shield from the first opening, the second-wire-side second end being opposite to a second-wire-side first end of the second wire that is connected to the connection; housing the first structure in its entirety in a tubular second shield; forming a second opening in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the second shield; and drawing a portion of the first shield to an outside of the second shield from the second opening, the portion of the first shield surrounding an outer periphery of the third wire in the first structure, wherein an outer periphery of the connection is surrounded by the first shield, and an outer periphery of a portion of the first shield is surrounded by the second shield, the portion of the first shield surrounding the outer periphery of the connection.

The wire harness and the method for manufacturing a wire harness according to the present disclosure have an effect of suppressing a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[1] A wire harness according to the present disclosure includes: a first wire that is electrically connectable to a first connector installed in a vehicle; a second wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a third wire that is electrically connected to the first wire; a connection portion in which the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other; a tubular first shield member that surrounds the outer periphery of the connection portion and the outer periphery of the first wire; and a tubular second shield member that surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member and the outer periphery of the second wire, the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the connection portion.

This configuration includes the tubular first shield member that surrounds the outer periphery of the connection portion in which the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other. The configuration further includes the tubular second shield member that surrounds the outer periphery of the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the connection portion. Accordingly, the outer periphery of the connection portion is surrounded by the first shield member, and the outer periphery of the first shield member is surrounded by the second shield member. Thus, the outer periphery of the connection portion is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member. Therefore, even when one of the first shield member and the second shield member is damaged, for example, the other of the first shield member and the second shield member can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the connection portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion. Consequently, the radiation of electromagnetic waves (electromagnetic noise) generated in the connection portion to the outside of the wire harness can be favorably suppressed.

Here, the axial direction of the first shield member is the direction in which the center axis of the first shield member extends, and the axial direction of the second shield member is the direction in which the center axis of the second shield member extends. “Tubular” as used in the description of the present specification means not only the shape of a peripheral wall that is continuously formed over the entire circumferential direction thereof but also a tubular shape formed by a plurality of combined parts and a shape in which a portion in the circumferential direction thereof includes a notch or the like, such as a C-shape. Also, “tubular” shapes include circular shapes, elliptical shapes, and polygonal shapes including angular or rounded corners.

[2] It is preferable that: the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the second wire; the first shield member includes a first opening that is provided in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the first shield member; the second wire includes a second-wire-side first end portion that is connected to the connection portion and a second-wire-side second end portion that is opposite to the second-wire-side first end portion; the second-wire-side second end portion of the second wire is drawn to the outside of the first shield member from the first opening; and the second shield member surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member and the outer periphery of the second wire exposed from the first shield member, the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the second wire. In this configuration, the outer periphery of a portion of the second wire is surrounded by the first shield member, and the outer periphery of the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the second wire is surrounded by the second shield member. Accordingly, the outer periphery of the portion of the second wire is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member. Therefore, even when one of the first shield member and the second shield member is damaged, for example, the other of the first shield member and the second shield member can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the second wire. Consequently, a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance with respect to the second wire can be favorably suppressed. Also, the outer periphery of the second wire exposed from the first shield member is surrounded by the second shield member. Therefore, the second shield member serves as an electromagnetic shield for the second wire drawn to the outside of the first shield member from the first opening. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the first shield member.

[3] It is preferable that: the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of the third wire; the first shield member includes a first-shield-side first end portion that surrounds the outer periphery of the first wire and a first-shield-side second end portion that is opposite to the first-shield-side first end portion in the axial direction of the first shield member; the second shield member surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member in a portion in which the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of the third wire; the second shield member includes a second opening that is provided in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the second shield member; and the first-shield-side second end portion of the first shield member is drawn to the outside of the second shield member from the second opening in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the third wire. In this configuration, the outer periphery of the third wire is surrounded by the first shield member, and in the portion in which the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of the third wire, the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member is surrounded by the second shield member. Accordingly, the outer periphery of a portion of the third wire is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member. Therefore, even when one of the first shield member and the second shield member is damaged, for example, the other of the first shield member and the second shield member can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the third wire. Consequently, a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance with respect to the third wire can be favorably suppressed. Also, the first-shield-side second end portion of the first shield member is drawn to the outside of the second shield member from the second opening in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the third wire. Accordingly, the portion of the third wire drawn to the outside of the second shield member is surrounded by the first shield member, which serves as an electromagnetic shield for the portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the second shield member.

[4] It is preferable that: the second shield member surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member in a portion in which the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of the first wire; the second shield member includes a third opening that is provided in an intermediate portion in the axial direction of the second shield member; and the first-shield-side first end portion of the first shield member is drawn to the outside of the second shield member from the third opening in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the first wire. In this configuration, the outer periphery of the first wire is surrounded by the first shield member, and the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member is surrounded by the second shield member in the portion in which the first shield member surrounds the outer periphery of the first wire. Accordingly, the outer periphery of a portion of the first wire is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member. Therefore, even when one of the first shield member and the second shield member is damaged, for example, the other of the first shield member and the second shield member can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the first wire. Consequently, a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance with respect to the first wire can be favorably suppressed. Also, the first-shield-side first end portion of the first shield member is drawn to the outside of the second shield member from the third opening in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the first wire. Accordingly, the portion of the first wire drawn to the outside of the second shield member is surrounded by the first shield member, which serves as an electromagnetic shield for the portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the second shield member.

[5] It is preferable that the first wire is an unshielded wire that does not have its own electromagnetic shielding structure, the second wire is an unshielded wire that does not have its own electromagnetic shielding structure, and the third wire is an unshielded wire that does not have its own electromagnetic shielding structure. In this configuration, the outer peripheries of the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire, which are unshielded wires, are surrounded by the first shield member and the second shield member.

Therefore, the first shield member and the second shield member can favorably serve as electromagnetic shields for the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire. In other words, even in the case where the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are unshielded wires, the first shield member and the second shield member serve as electromagnetic shields for the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire, and therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the wire harness.

[6] It is preferable that: the first-shield-side first end portion of the first shield member includes a first separated portion that does not surround the outer periphery of the first wire and extends away from the first wire; and the wire harness further includes a grounding member that is electrically connected to a leading end of the first separated portion and is electrically connected to a grounding portion provided in the vehicle. In this configuration, the grounding member is electrically connected to the leading end of the first separated portion provided in the first-shield-side first end portion of the first shield member. Also, the grounding member is electrically connected to the grounding portion provided in the vehicle. Accordingly, the leading end of the first separated portion can be electrically connected to the grounding portion via the grounding member. Consequently, the first shield member can favorably function as an electromagnetic shield member.

[7] It is preferable that: a second-shield-side first end portion in the axial direction of the second shield member includes a second separated portion that does not surround the outer periphery of the first wire and extends away from the first wire; a leading end of the second separated portion is electrically connected to the grounding member; and the grounding member electrically connects the leading end of the first separated portion and the leading end of the second separated portion collectively to the grounding portion. In this configuration, the leading end of the first separated portion of the first shield member and the leading end of the second separated portion of the second shield member are collectively electrically connected to the grounding portion. Therefore, when compared with a case where the leading end of the first separated portion and the leading end of the second separated portion are electrically connected to different grounding portions, the number of connections to grounding portions, i.e., the number of grounding sites can be reduced.

[8] It is preferable that the first connector is electrically connectable to an external connector that is connected to an external power source. In this configuration, the first connector that is electrically connected to the first wire is electrically connected to the external connector and the external power source. In the wire harness of this case, a large current flows through the first wire electrically connected to the first connector, and accordingly, electromagnetic noise is likely to be generated in the first wire and the connection portion, for example. However, in the wire harness of the present disclosure, the outer periphery of the connection portion is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member to suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion. Therefore, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is likely to be generated, it is possible to favorably suppress the radiation of electromagnetic noise generated from the connection portion to the outside of the wire harness.

[9] A method for manufacturing a wire harness according to the present disclosure includes: forming a wire assembly that includes a first wire, a second wire, a third wire, and a connection portion in which the first wire, the second wire, and the third wire are electrically connected to each other; housing the entire wire assembly in a tubular first shield member; forming a first opening in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the first shield member; forming a first structure by drawing a second-wire-side second end portion of the second wire to the outside of the first shield member from the first opening, the second-wire-side second end portion being opposite to a second-wire-side first end portion of the second wire that is connected to the connection portion; housing the entire first structure in a tubular second shield member; forming a second opening in an intermediate portion in an axial direction of the second shield member; and drawing a portion of the first shield member to the outside of the second shield member from the second opening, the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the third wire in the first structure, wherein the outer periphery of the connection portion is surrounded by the first shield member, and the outer periphery of a portion of the first shield member is surrounded by the second shield member, the portion of the first shield member surrounding the outer periphery of the connection portion.

In this configuration, the outer periphery of the connection portion is surrounded by both the first shield member and the second shield member. Therefore, even when one of the first shield member and the second shield member is damaged, for example, the other of the first shield member and the second shield member can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the connection portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion.

[10] It is preferable that: the wire assembly includes a plurality of the first wires, a plurality of the second wires, a plurality of the third wires, and a plurality of the connection portions; and in the forming the wire assembly, a common seal member is attached to the second-wire-side second end portions of the plurality of second wires. In this configuration, the common seal member is attached to the second-wire-side second end portions of the plurality of second wires. Therefore, the second-wire-side second end portions of the plurality of second wires are drawn to the outside of the first shield member from the first opening in the state where the plurality of second wires are bundled together using the seal member. This improves ease of work when assembling the wire harness when compared with a case where the plurality of second wires that are not bundled together are drawn out from the first opening.

Details of Embodiments of the Present Invention

A specific example of a wire harness according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, a portion of the configuration may be emphasized or simplified for the sake of convenience of description. Dimensional ratios of portions may differ between drawings. “Orthogonal” as used in the present specification encompasses not only the strict sense of the word “orthogonal” but also the meaning of “substantially orthogonal” within a range in which operations and effects of the present embodiment can be achieved. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to encompass all modifications within the meanings and scope that are equivalent to the claims

Overall Configuration of Wire Harness1

A wire harness1shown inFIG.1is installed in a vehicle V such as a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle, for example. The wire harness1electrically connects three or more in-vehicle devices. The in-vehicle devices are electrical devices installed in the vehicle V. The wire harness1of the present embodiment electrically connects a charging inlet M1and a plurality of in-vehicle devices M2and M3. The wire harness1is formed into an elongated shape so as to extend in the front-rear direction of the vehicle V, for example.

In the present embodiment, in the length direction of the wire harness1, the side close to the charging inlet M1will be referred to as the “rear side”, and the side close to the in-vehicle devices M2and M3will be referred to as the “front side” for the sake of convenience of description. Also, the charging inlet M1side end portion of each member will be referred to as the “rear end portion”, and the in-vehicle device M2, M3side end portion of each member will be referred to as the “front end portion”.

The wire harness1includes a wire10, wires20and30that are electrically connected to the wire10, and a connection portion40(connection) in which the wire10is connected to the wires20and30, for example. The wire harness1includes a tubular shield member50that surrounds the outer periphery of the connection portion40and the outer periphery of the wire10and a tubular shield member60that surrounds the outer periphery of the connection portion40and the outer periphery of the wire20. The wire harness1includes a connector C1that is attached to the rear end portion of the wire10, a connector C2that is attached to the front end portion of the wire20, and a connector C3that is attached to the front end portion of the wire30, for example.

The connector C1is provided in the charging inlet M1, for example. The connector C1constitutes a portion of the charging inlet M1, for example. In other words, the charging inlet M1includes the connector C1. The connector C1constituting the charging inlet M1is electrically connectable to an external connector101that is connected to an external power source100. The connector C2is electrically connected to the in-vehicle device M2. The connector C3is electrically connected to the in-vehicle device M3. The in-vehicle devices M2and M3are batteries, for example. The batteries are secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, for example. It is possible to charge the batteries with power supplied from the external power source100by connecting the external connector101to the connector C1of the charging inlet Ml, for example. The battery capacity of the vehicle V can be increased by connecting a plurality of batteries to the charging inlet M1. As described above, the wire harness1of the present embodiment is a wire harness for charging that connects the in-vehicle devices M2and M3, which are batteries, to the charging inlet M1.

In the wire harness1, the two wires20and30branch from the single wire10at an intermediate portion in the length direction of the wire harness1. In the wire harness1of the present embodiment, power supplied from the charging inlet M1is distributed to the wires20and30and supplied via the wires20and30to the in-vehicle devices M2and M3, which are batteries. In the wire harness1, the wire10functions as a trunk wire and the wires20and30function as branch wires, for example. The wires10,20, and30are high-voltage wires that can withstand high voltages and large currents, for example.

Configuration of Wire10

As shown inFIGS.2and3, the wire10includes a plus side wire10A and a minus side wire10B, for example.

Configuration of Wires10A and10B

As shown inFIG.3, each of the wires10A and10B includes a conductive core wire11and an insulating covering12that surrounds the outer periphery of the core wire11and has insulating properties. The wires10A and10B are unshielded wires that do not have their own electromagnetic shielding structures, for example. The wires10A and10B are formed into elongated shapes so as to extend in the front-rear direction of the vehicle V, for example.

A twisted wire that is obtained by twisting a plurality of metal strands or a single core wire that is constituted by a single conductor can be used as the core wire11, for example. A columnar conductor that is constituted by a single columnar metal rod having a solid structure or a tubular conductor that has a hollow structure can be used as the single core wire, for example. Any combination of a twisted wire, a columnar conductor, and a tubular conductor may also be used as the core wire11. The core wire11in the present embodiment is a twisted wire. Metal materials such as copper-based materials and aluminum-based materials can be used as the material of the core wire11, for example.

As shown inFIG.4, the insulating covering12covers the outer circumferential surface of the core wire11over its entire circumference, for example. The insulating covering12is made of a resin material that has insulating properties, for example.

The shapes of cross sections of the wires10A and10B taken along a plane orthogonal to the length directions of the wires10A and10B, i.e., the shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires10A and10B may be any shape. The shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires10A and10B are circular shapes in the present embodiment.

Structure of End Portions in Length Direction of Wires10A and10B

As shown inFIG.3, the front end portion of the core wire11is exposed from the insulating covering12at the front end portion of each of the wires10A and10B. At the front end portion of each of the wires10A and10B, the insulating covering12is removed by a predetermined length from the end of the wire10A or10B to expose the front end portion of the core wire11.

The rear end portions of the wires10A and10B are housed in the connector C1, for example. At the rear end portion of each of the wires10A and10B, the rear end portion of the core wire11exposed from the insulating covering12is electrically connected to a metal terminal13, although this is not illustrated in detail. The terminal13is electrically connected to a terminal of the external connector101(seeFIG.1), for example. At the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B, a ring-shaped seal member14and a retainer15that keeps the seal member14from coming loose from the connector Cl are attached to the outer circumferential surfaces of the rear end portions of the insulating coverings12. The seal member14is common to the two wires10A and10B, for example. That is, the single seal member14is attached to the two wires10A and10B. The seal member14seals a gap between the outer circumferential surfaces of the wires10A and10B and the inner circumferential surface of the connector C1. The seal member14is made of rubber, for example. The retainer15is common to the two wires10A and10B, for example.

Configuration of Wire20

The wire20includes a plus side wire20A that is connected to the plus terminal of the in-vehicle device M2and a minus side wire20B that is connected to the minus terminal of the in-vehicle device M2, for example.

Configuration of Wires20A and20B

Each of the wires20A and20B includes a conductive core wire21and an insulating covering22that surrounds the outer periphery of the core wire21and has insulating properties. The wires20A and20B are unshielded wires, for example. The wires20A and20B are formed into elongated shapes so as to extend in the front-rear direction of the vehicle V, for example.

A twisted wire, a columnar conductor, or a tubular conductor can be used as the core wire21, for example. Any combination of a twisted wire, a columnar conductor, and a tubular conductor may also be used as the core wire21. The core wire21in the present embodiment is a twisted wire. Metal materials such as copper-based materials and aluminum-based materials can be used as the material of the core wire21, for example.

As shown inFIGS.5and6, the insulating covering22covers the outer circumferential surface of the core wire21over its entire circumference, for example. The insulating covering22is made of a resin material that has insulating properties, for example.

The shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires20A and20B may be any shape. The shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires20A and20B are circular shapes in the present embodiment.

Structure of End Portions in Length Direction of Wires20A and20B

As shown inFIG.3, the rear end portion of the core wire21is exposed from the insulating covering22at the rear end portion of each of the wires20A and20B. At the rear end portion of each of the wires20A and20B, the insulating covering22is removed by a predetermined length from the end of the wire20A or20B to expose the rear end portion of the core wire21.

The front end portions of the wires20A and20B are housed in the connector C2, for example. At the front end portion of each of the wires20A and20B, the front end portion of the core wire21exposed from the insulating covering22is electrically connected to a metal terminal23, although this is not illustrated in detail. At the front end portions of the wires20A and20B, a ring-shaped seal member24and a retainer25that keeps the seal member24from coming loose from the connector C2are attached to the outer circumferential surfaces of the front end portions of the insulating coverings22. The seal member24is common to the two wires20A and20B, for example. That is, the single seal member24is attached to the two wires20A and20B. The seal member24seals a gap between the outer circumferential surfaces of the wires20A and20B and the inner circumferential surface of the connector C2. The seal member24is made of rubber, for example. The retainer25is common to the two wires20A and20B, for example.

Configuration of Wire30

The wire30includes a plus side wire30A that is connected to the plus terminal of the in-vehicle device M3and a minus side wire30B that is connected to the minus terminal of the in-vehicle device M3, for example.

Configuration of Wires30A and30B

Each of the wires30A and30B includes a conductive core wire31and an insulating covering32that surrounds the outer periphery of the core wire31and has insulating properties. The wires30A and30B in the present embodiment are unshielded wires, for example. The wires30A and30B are formed into elongated shapes so as to extend in the front-rear direction of the vehicle V, for example.

A twisted wire, a columnar conductor, or a tubular conductor can be used as the core wire31, for example. Any combination of a twisted wire, a columnar conductor, and a tubular conductor may also be used as the core wire31. The core wire31in the present embodiment is a twisted wire. Metal materials such as copper-based materials and aluminum-based materials can be used as the material of the core wire31, for example.

As shown inFIGS.5and6, the insulating covering32covers the outer circumferential surface of the core wire31over its entire circumference, for example. The insulating covering32is made of a resin material that has insulating properties, for example.

The shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires30A and30B may be any shape. The shapes of transverse cross sections of the wires30A and30B are circular shapes in the present embodiment.

Structure of End Portions in Length Direction of Wires30A and30B

As shown inFIG.3, the rear end portion of the core wire31is exposed from the insulating covering32at the rear end portion of each of the wires30A and30B. At the rear end portion of each of the wires30A and30B, the insulating covering32is removed by a predetermined length from the end of the wire30A or30B to expose the rear end portion of the core wire31.

The front end portions of the wires30A and30B are housed in the connector C3, for example. At the front end portion of each of the wires30A and30B, the front end portion of the core wire31exposed from the insulating covering32is electrically connected to a metal terminal33, although this is not illustrated in detail. At the front end portions of the wires30A and30B, a ring-shaped seal member34and a retainer35that keeps the seal member34from coming loose from the connector C3are attached to the outer circumferential surfaces of the front end portions of the insulating coverings32. The seal member34is common to the two wires30A and30B, for example. That is, the single seal member34is attached to the two wires30A and30B. The seal member34seals a gap between the outer circumferential surfaces of the wires30A and30B and the inner circumferential surface of the connector C3. The seal member34is made of rubber, for example. The retainer35is common to the two wires30A and30B, for example.

Configuration of Connection Portion40

The connection portion40includes a connection portion40A in which the plus side wire10A is connected to the plus side wires20A and30A and a connection portion40B in which the minus side wire10B is connected to the minus side wires20B and30B, for example. Here, the connection portion40A and the connection portion40B have the same structure, and therefore, the connection portions40A and40B will be collectively referred to as the connection portion40. Likewise, the wires10A and10B will be collectively referred to as the wire10, the wires20A and20B will be collectively referred to as the wire20, and the wires30A and30B will be collectively referred to as the wire30.

In the connection portion40, the core wire11of the wire10is electrically connected to the core wire21of the wire20and the core wire31of the wire30. In the connection portion40, the front end portion of the core wire11exposed from the insulating covering12, the rear end portion of the core wire21exposed from the insulating covering22, and the rear end portion of the core wire31exposed from the insulating covering32are joined to each other. There is no particular limitation on the method for joining the core wires11,21, and31. For example, the core wires11,21, and31can be joined by being crimped using a crimp terminal or welded through ultrasonic welding or laser welding, or using any other known joining method. In the present embodiment, the core wires11,21, and31are joined by being crimped using a crimp terminal41.

Configuration of Covering Member42

The wire harness1includes a plurality of covering members42that cover the outer periphery of the connection portion40A and the outer periphery of the connection portion40B individually, for example.

Each covering member42has an elongated tubular shape, for example. Each covering member42covers the outer periphery of the crimp terminal41, the core wire11exposed from the insulating covering12, the core wire21exposed from the insulating covering22, and the core wire31exposed from the insulating covering32, for example. Each covering member42is formed so as to span between the front end portion of the insulating covering12and the rear end portions of the insulating coverings22and32. For example, the rear end portion of each covering member42covers the outer circumferential surface of the front end portion of the insulating covering12, and the front end portion of each covering member42covers the outer circumferential surfaces of the rear end portions of the insulating coverings22and32. Each covering member42surrounds the outer periphery of the wire10, the outer periphery of the wire20, the outer periphery of the wire30, and the outer periphery of the crimp terminal41over their entire circumferences. Each covering member42has a function of maintaining electrical insulation of the connection portion40and the core wires11,21, and31exposed from the insulating coverings12,22, and32, for example.

As the covering members42, it is possible to use shrinkable tubes, rubber tubes, resin molded articles, hot-melt adhesive, or tape members, for example. The covering members42in the present embodiment are heat-shrinkable tubes. As the material of the covering members42, it is possible to use a synthetic resin that contains a polyolefin resin such as cross-linked polyethylene or cross-linked polypropylene as the main component, for example.

Configuration of Shield Member50

The shield member50has an elongated tubular shape, for example. The shield member50is flexible, for example. A braided wire that is obtained by braiding a plurality of metal strands into a tubular shape or a metal foil can be used as the shield member50, for example. The shield member50in the present embodiment is a braided wire. Metal materials such as copper-based materials and aluminum-based materials can be used as the material of the shield member50, for example.

The shield member50is arranged to surround the outer periphery of the connection portion40. The shield member50is arranged to surround the outer peripheries of the connection portions40A and40B collectively. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the plurality of covering members42over their entire circumferences, for example.

In the present specification, “surround a member A and a member B collectively” means to surround the member A and the member B together using a single tubular member without providing a wall between the member A and the member B, for example.

As shown inFIGS.3and4, the shield member50collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the plurality of wires10, i.e., the wires10A and10B, for example. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires10A and10B over their entire circumferences, for example. As shown inFIG.3, the shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires10A and10B over the entire lengths of the wires10A and10B in their length directions, for example. The “entire length” as used in the present specification encompasses not only the strict sense of the word “entire length” but also the meaning of “substantially the entire length” within a range in which operations and effects of the present embodiment can be achieved.

As shown inFIGS.3and6, the shield member50collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the plurality of wires30, i.e., the wires30A and30B, for example. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires30A and30B over their entire circumferences, for example. As shown inFIG.3, the shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires30A and30B over the entire lengths of the wires30A and30B in their length directions, for example. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the insulating coverings32exposed from the covering members42, for example.

The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of portions of the wires20A and20B in their length directions, for example. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires20A and20B, for example. The shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the insulating coverings22exposed from the covering members42, for example. The shield member50collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the four wires20A,20B,30A, and30B exposed from the covering members42, for example. As shown inFIG.5, the shield member50surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the four wires20A,20B,30A, and30B over their entire circumferences, for example.

As shown inFIGS.2and3, the shield member50of the present embodiment is formed so as to surround a region in the length direction of the wire harness1from the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B to the front end portions of the wires30A and30B.

Grounding Structure of Shield Member50

The shield member50is electrically connected to grounding portions of the vehicle V, e.g., grounding portions provided in a vehicle body panel or the like. That is, the shield member50is grounded to the grounding portions. Both end portions in the axial direction (length direction) of the shield member50are grounded, for example. The following describes an example of the grounding structure of the shield member50.

The rear end portion of the shield member50includes a separated portion51that does not surround the outer periphery of the wire10and extends away from the wire10. The separated portion51extends in a direction (upward in the drawing) that intersects the length direction of the wire10, for example. The leading end of the separated portion51is electrically connected to a metal earth terminal70, for example. The earth terminal70is electrically connected to a grounding portion G1provided in the vehicle body panel or the like, for example. The leading end of the separated portion51is grounded to the grounding portion G1via the earth terminal70, for example. Here, the leading end of the separated portion51is the end portion that is the farthest from the wire10, out of end portions in the axial direction of the separated portion51. The separated portion51and the earth terminal70can be joined by being crimped or welded through ultrasonic welding or laser welding, or using any other known joining method.

The front end portion of the shield member50includes a separated portion52that does not surround the outer periphery of the wire30and extends away from the wire30. The separated portion52extends in a direction (downward in the drawing) that intersects the length direction of the wire30, for example. The leading end of the separated portion52is electrically connected to a metal earth terminal71, for example. The leading end of the separated portion52is grounded to a grounding portion G2provided in the vehicle body panel or the like via the earth terminal71, for example. Here, the leading end of the separated portion52is the end portion that is the farthest from the wire30, out of end portions in the axial direction of the separated portion52. The separated portion52and the earth terminal71can be joined by being crimped or welded through ultrasonic welding or laser welding, or using any other known joining method.

With the configuration described above, the shield member50exhibits an electromagnetic shielding function of suppressing the radiation of electromagnetic waves from the wires10,20, and30and the connection portion40to the outside of the wire harness1.

Configuration of Opening53

The shield member50includes an opening53that is provided in an intermediate portion in the axial direction of the shield member50. The opening53is formed to pass through the shield member50in the radial direction of the shield member50, for example. The opening53is formed by widening a mesh in the shield member50, which is a braided wire, for example. For example, the opening53is formed by widening a single mesh in the shield member50. The opening53is formed such that the two wires20A and20B can pass through the opening53, for example. Here, the number of openings53can be set to a suitable number. For example, a single opening53may be provided as in the illustrated case. In this case, the two wires20A and20B pass through the single opening53. The number of openings53may be changed to two or more. In the case where two openings53are provided, for example, the two wires20A and20B respectively pass through the two openings53.

The front end portions of the two wires20A and20B passing through the opening53are drawn to the outside of the shield member50. The front end portions of the wires20A and20B drawn to the outside of the shield member50are exposed from the shield member50. Accordingly, the shield member50does not serve as an electromagnetic shield for the front end portions of the wires20A and20B.

Configuration of Shield Member60

The shield member60has an elongated tubular shape, for example. The shield member60is flexible, for example. A braided wire or a metal foil can be used as the shield member60, for example. The shield member60in the present embodiment is a braided wire. Metal materials such as copper-based materials and aluminum-based materials can be used as the material of the shield member60, for example.

As shown inFIG.3, the shield member60is arranged to surround the outer periphery of the connection portion40. The shield member60is arranged to collectively surround the outer peripheries of the two connection portions40A and40B. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the connection portions40A and40B and the covering members42over their entire circumferences, for example. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the plurality of connection portions40. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the plurality of covering members42, for example. Accordingly, the outer peripheries of the connection portions40and the covering members42are surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60.

The shield member60collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the plurality of wires20, i.e., the wires20A and20B. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires20A and20B over their entire circumferences, for example. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires20A and20B over the entire lengths of the wires20A and20B in their length directions, for example. The shield member60collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires20A and20B drawn to the outside of the shield member50from the opening53, for example. As shown inFIGS.3and6, the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires20A and20B are surrounded by only the shield member60out of the shield members50and60.

As shown inFIG.3, the shield member60collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of portions of the plurality of wires30, i.e., the wires30A and30B in their length directions, for example. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires30A and30B, for example. The shield member60collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the four wires20A,20B,30A, and30B exposed from the covering members42, for example. As shown inFIG.5, the shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the four wires20A,20B,30A, and30B over their entire circumferences, for example. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires20and30, for example. Accordingly, the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires20and30are surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60.

As shown inFIG.3, the shield member60collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of portions of the plurality of wires10, i.e., the wires10A and10B in their length directions, for example. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries the front end portions of the wires10A and10B over their entire circumferences, for example. As shown inFIGS.3and4, the shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires10. Accordingly, the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires10are surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60.

As shown inFIG.3, the shield member60of the present embodiment is formed so as to surround a region in the length direction of the wire harness1from the front end portions of the wires20A and20B to intermediate portions in the length directions of the wires10A and10B. Also, the shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50in its axial direction. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of the shield member50over its entire circumference, for example. In the region where the outer periphery of the shield member50is surrounded by the shield member60, the wires10,20, and30, the connection portions40, and the like are surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60.

Grounding Structure of Shield Member60

As shown inFIGS.2and3, the shield member60is grounded to grounding portions of the vehicle V. Both end portions in the axial direction (length direction) of the shield member60are grounded, for example. The following describes an example of the grounding structure of the shield member60.

The rear end portion of the shield member60includes a separated portion61that does not surround the outer periphery of the wire10and the outer periphery of the shield member50and extends away from the wire10. The separated portion61extends in a direction that intersects the length direction of the wire10, for example. The leading end of the separated portion61is electrically connected to the earth terminal70, for example. The leading end of the separated portion61and the leading end of the separated portion51are collectively connected to the earth terminal70. The earth terminal70in the present embodiment crimps the leading end of the separated portion51and the leading end of the separated portion61together. The earth terminal70electrically connects the leading end of the separated portion61and the leading end of the separated portion51collectively to the grounding portion G1. The leading end of the separated portion61is grounded to the grounding portion G1via the earth terminal70. Here, the leading end of the separated portion61is the end portion that is the farthest from the wire10, out of end portions in the axial direction of the separated portion61. The separated portion61and the earth terminal70can be joined by being crimped or welded through ultrasonic welding or laser welding, or using any other known joining method.

The front end portion of the shield member60includes a separated portion62that does not surround the outer periphery of the wire20and extends away from the wire20. The separated portion62extends in a direction (downward in the drawing) that intersects the length direction of the wire20, for example. The leading end of the separated portion62is electrically connected to a metal earth terminal72, for example. The earth terminal72is electrically connected to a grounding portion G3provided in the vehicle body panel or the like, for example. The leading end of the separated portion62is grounded to the grounding portion G3via the earth terminal72, for example. Here, the leading end of the separated portion62is the end portion that is the farthest from the wire20, out of end portions in the axial direction of the separated portion62. The separated portion62and the earth terminal72can be joined by being crimped or welded through ultrasonic welding or laser welding, or using any other known joining method.

With the configuration described above, the shield member60exhibits an electromagnetic shielding function of suppressing the radiation of electromagnetic waves from the wires10,20, and30and the connection portion40to the outside of the wire harness1.

Configuration of Openings63and64

The shield member60includes openings63and64that are provided in intermediate portions in the axial direction of the shield member60. The openings63and64are separated away from each other in the axial direction of the shield member60. The openings63and64are formed to pass through the shield member60in the radial direction of the shield member60, for example. The openings63and64are formed by widening meshes in the shield member60, which is a braided wire, for example. Each of the openings63and64is formed by widening a single mesh in the shield member60, for example.

The opening63is formed such that the two wires30A and30B and the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires30A and30B can pass through the opening63, for example. The front end portion of the shield member50passes through the opening63in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires30A and30B, for example. The front end portion of the shield member50passing through the opening63is drawn to the outside of the shield member60in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires30A and30B. Accordingly, the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires30A and30B drawn to the outside of the shield member60are surrounded by only the shield member50out of the shield members50and60.

The opening64is formed such that the two wires10A and10B and the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires10A and10B can pass through the opening64, for example. The rear end portion of the shield member50passes through the opening64in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B, for example. The rear end portion of the shield member50passing through the opening64is drawn to the outside of the shield member60in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B. Accordingly, the outer peripheries of the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B drawn to the outside of the shield member60are surrounded by only the shield member50out of the shield members50and60.

In the present embodiment, the wire10is an example of a first wire, the wire20is an example of a second wire, the wire30is an example of a third wire, the rear end portion of the wire20is an example of a second-wire-side first end portion, and the front end portion of the wire20is an example of a second-wire-side second end portion. Also, the shield member50is an example of a first shield member (first shield), the rear end portion of the shield member50is an example of a first-shield-side first end portion (first-shield-side first end), and the front end portion of the shield member50is an example of a first-shield-side second end portion (first-shield-side second end). Also, the shield member60is an example of a second shield member (second shield), and the rear end portion of the shield member60is an example of a second-shield-side first end portion (second-shield-side first end).

Method for Manufacturing Wire Harness1

Next, the following describes a method for manufacturing the wire harness1.

First, in the process shown inFIG.7, a wire assembly2that is not surrounded by the shield members50and60is prepared. In the wire assembly2, the terminals13are electrically connected to the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B, respectively, and the seal member14and the retainer15are attached to the outer peripheries of the insulating coverings12at the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B, for example. In the wire assembly2, the terminals23are electrically connected to the front end portions of the wires20A and20B, respectively, and the seal member24and the retainer25are attached to the outer peripheries of the insulating coverings22at the front end portions of the wires20A and20B, for example. In the wire assembly2, the terminals33are electrically connected to the front end portions of the wires30A and30B, respectively, and the seal member34and the retainer35are attached to the outer peripheries of the insulating coverings32at the front end portions of the wires30A and30B, for example. In the wire assembly2, the front end portion of the core wire11, the rear end portion of the core wire21, and the rear end portion of the core wire31are electrically connected to each other using the crimp terminal41. In the wire assembly2, the outer periphery of each crimp terminal41is covered by the covering member42.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.8, the entire wire assembly2is housed in the tubular shield member50. That is, the entire wire assembly2is surrounded by the tubular shield member50. The shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the wire assembly2over its entire circumference. The shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the wire assembly2over the entire length of the wire assembly2in its length direction.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.9, the opening53is formed in an intermediate portion in the axial direction of the shield member50. The opening53is formed by widening a mesh in the shield member50, which is a braided wire, for example.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.10, the front end portions of the wires20A and20B are drawn to the outside of the shield member50through the opening53. Thus, a structure (first structure) shown inFIG.10is formed. At this time, the two wires20A and20B are bundled together using the seal member24in the present embodiment. Therefore, the two wires20A and20B can be collectively drawn out from the opening53. This improves ease of work when drawing out the wires20A and20B when compared with a case where the two wires20A and20B are individually drawn out from the opening53.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.11, the entire structure (first structure) shown inFIG.10is housed in the tubular shield member60. That is, the entire structure shown inFIG.10is surrounded by the tubular shield member60. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of the portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer periphery of a portion of the wire assembly2, and also surrounds the outer periphery of the wire assembly2exposed from the shield member50. The shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of the shield member50over its entire circumference and the outer periphery of the wire assembly2exposed from the shield member50, i.e., the outer peripheries of the front end portions of the wires20A and20B over their entire circumferences. The shield member60surrounds the outer peripheries of the terminals23, the seal member24, and the retainer25over their entire circumferences, for example.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.12, the openings63and64are formed in intermediate portions in the axial direction of the shield member60. The openings63and64are separated away from each other in the axial direction of the shield member60. The openings63and64are formed by widening meshes in the shield member60, which is a braided wire, for example.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.13, the front end portions of the wires30A and30B and the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires30A and30B are drawn to the outside of the shield member60through the opening63. Accordingly, the shield member50passes through the opening63in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires30A and30B. Also, in the process shown inFIG.13, the rear end portions of the wires10A and10B and the shield member50surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires10A and10B are drawn to the outside of the shield member60through the opening64. Accordingly, the shield member50passes through the opening64in the state of surrounding the outer peripheries of the wires10A and10B. In this process, the two wires10A and10B are bundled together using the seal member14, and the two wires30A and30B are bundled together using the seal member34. Therefore, the two wires10A and10B can be collectively drawn out from the opening64, and the two wires30A and30B can be collectively drawn out from the opening63. This improves ease of work when drawing out the wires10A,10B,30A, and30B when compared with the case where the wires10A and10B are not bundled together and the wires30A and30B are not bundled together.

Next, in the process shown inFIG.14, the separated portion51is formed in the rear end portion of the shield member50, and the separated portion52is formed in the front end portion of the shield member50. Also, the separated portion61is formed in the rear end portion of the shield member60, and the separated portion62is formed in the front end portion of the shield member60.

Thereafter, as shown inFIG.3, the earth terminal70is connected to the leading ends of the separated portions51and61, the earth terminal71is connected to the leading end of the separated portion52, and the earth terminal72is connected to the leading end of the separated portion62. Also, the connector C1is connected to the rear end portion of the wire10, the connector C2is connected to the front end portion of the wire20, and the connector C3is connected to the front end portion of the wire30. Through the manufacturing processes described above, the wire harness1of the present embodiment can be manufactured.

Next, the following describes the operations and effects of the present embodiment.

(1) The tubular shield member50surrounding the outer periphery of the connection portion40in which the wires10,20, and30are electrically connected to each other is provided. Also, the tubular shield member60surrounding the outer periphery of the portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer periphery of the connection portion40is provided. With this configuration, the outer periphery of the connection portion40is surrounded by the shield member50, and the outer periphery of the shield member50is surrounded by the shield member60. Accordingly, the outer periphery of the connection portion40is surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60. Therefore, even when one of the shield members50and60is damaged, for example, the other of the shield members50and60can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the connection portion40. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion40.

For example, the outer shape of the connection portion40may be larger than outer shapes of the other portions because the core wire11of the wire10, the core wire21of the wire20, and the core wire31of the wire30are connected using the crimp terminal41in the connection portion40. In this case, the connection portion40is likely to come into contact with the shield member50, and it is conceivable that the shield member50will be damaged due to the contact, for example, metal strands constituting the braided wire may be cut. Also, when the connection portion40includes a sharp edge, it is conceivable that the shield member50will be damaged by coming into contact with the edge. In the wire harness1of the present embodiment, the shield member60can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the connection portion40even when the shield member50is damaged as described above. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion40.

(2) The outer periphery of the rear end portion of the wire20is surrounded by the shield member50, and the outer periphery of the portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer periphery of the rear end portion of the wire20is surrounded by the shield member60. With this configuration, the outer periphery of the rear end portion of the wire20is surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60. Therefore, even when one of the shield members50and60is damaged, for example, the other of the shield members50and60can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the rear end portion of the wire20. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the rear end portion of the wire20.

(3) The outer periphery of the wire20exposed from the shield member50is surrounded by the shield member60. With this configuration, the outer periphery of the portion of the wire20drawn to the outside of the shield member50is surrounded by the shield member60, which serves as an electromagnetic shield for the portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the shield member50.

(4) The outer periphery of the wire30is surrounded by the shield member50, and the outer periphery of a portion of the shield member50surrounding the outer periphery of the rear end portion of the wire30is surrounded by the shield member60. With this configuration, the outer periphery of the rear end portion of the wire30is surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60. Therefore, even when one of the shield members50and60is damaged, for example, the other of the shield members50and60can serve as an electromagnetic shield for the rear end portion of the wire30. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the rear end portion of the wire30.

(5) The front end portion of the shield member50is drawn to the outside of the shield member60from the opening63in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the wire30. Accordingly, the outer periphery of the portion of the wire30drawn to the outside of the shield member60is surrounded by the shield member50, which serves as an electromagnetic shield for the portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the shield member60.

(6) The rear end portion of the shield member50is drawn to the outside of the shield member60from the opening64in the state of surrounding the outer periphery of the wire10. Accordingly, the outer periphery of the portion of the wire10drawn to the outside of the shield member60is surrounded by the shield member50, which serves as an electromagnetic shield for the portion. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the portion exposed from the shield member60.

(7) The leading end of the separated portion51of the shield member50and the leading end of the separated portion61of the shield member60are collectively electrically connected to the grounding portion G1. Accordingly, the number of grounding sites can be reduced when compared with a case where the leading end of the separated portion51and the leading end of the separated portion61are electrically connected to different grounding portions. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of fastening points at which grounding members such as the earth terminal70are fastened to grounding portions such as the grounding portion G1.

(8) The connector C1is electrically connectable to the external connector101that is connected to the external power source100. In this case, a large current flows through the wire10, which is electrically connected to the connector C1, and accordingly, electromagnetic noise is likely to be generated in the wire10and the connection portion40. However, in the wire harness1of the present embodiment, the outer periphery of the connection portion40is surrounded by both the shield member50and the shield member60to suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the connection portion40. Therefore, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is likely to be generated, it is possible to favorably suppress the radiation of electromagnetic noise generated from the connection portion40to the outside of the wire harness1.

Other Embodiments

The above embodiment can be implemented with the following changes. The above embodiment and the following variations can be implemented in combination so long as no technical contradiction is incurred.

In the above embodiment, the leading end of the separated portion51of the shield member50and the leading end of the separated portion61of the shield member60are electrically connected to the single earth terminal70(grounding member/ground). However, there is no limitation to this configuration.

For example, as shown inFIG.15, a configuration is also possible in which the leading end of the separated portion51of the shield member50is electrically connected to the earth terminal70and the leading end of the separated portion61of the shield member60is electrically connected to an earth terminal73other than the earth terminal70. The earth terminal70is electrically connected to the grounding portion G1, for example. The leading end of the separated portion51is grounded to the grounding portion G1via the earth terminal70. The earth terminal73is electrically connected to a grounding portion G4provided in the vehicle body panel or the like, for example. The leading end of the separated portion61is grounded to the grounding portion G4via the earth terminal73.

In the above embodiment, the separated portion51is provided in the rear end portion of the shield member50and the earth terminal70is electrically connected to the leading end of the separated portion51. However, the grounding structure for grounding the rear end portion of the shield member50to the grounding portion G1is not limited to this structure.

For example, as shown inFIG.16, it is possible to provide a metal tubular member80on the connector C1and electrically connect the rear end portion of the shield member50to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member80. The rear end portion of the wire10is housed in the tubular member80. The rear end portion of the shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the tubular member80. The rear end portion of the shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the tubular member80over its entire circumference, for example. The wire harness1of this variation includes a fixing member81for fixing the shield member50to the tubular member80. The fixing member81fixes the shield member50to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member80in a state where the rear end portion of the shield member50is in contact with the tubular member80, for example. As a result of the fixing member81being tightened radially inward of the tubular member80, the rear end portion of the shield member50is fixed in the state of being in direct contact with the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member80. Thus, the shield member50is electrically and mechanically connected to the tubular member80. The shield member50of this variation is grounded to the grounding portion G1via the tubular member80. For example, a caulking ring, a cable tie, or a tape member can be used as the fixing member81. Metal materials such as iron-based materials, aluminum-based materials, and copper-based materials can be used as the material of the caulking ring, for example.

In this configuration, the rear end portion of the shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the tubular member80provided on the connector C1, and accordingly, the rear end portion of the wire10can be kept from being exposed from the shield member50. Therefore, it is possible to favorably suppress a reduction in the electromagnetic shielding performance in the wire harness1.

For example, as shown inFIG.16, it is also possible to provide a metal tubular member82on the connector C2and electrically connect the front end portion of the shield member60to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member82. The front end portion of the shield member60surrounds the outer periphery of the tubular member82. The front end portion of the shield member60is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member82using a fixing member83that is similar to the fixing member81. The shield member60of this variation is grounded to the grounding portion G3via the tubular member82.

For example, as shown inFIG.16, it is also possible to provide a metal tubular member84on the connector C3and electrically connect the rear end portion of the shield member50to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member84. The front end portion of the shield member50surrounds the outer periphery of the tubular member84. The front end portion of the shield member50is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member84using a fixing member85that is similar to the fixing member81. The shield member50of this variation is grounded to the grounding portion G2via the tubular member84.

In the above embodiment, the shield member60may surround the outer periphery of the wire10over the entire length of the wire10in its length direction.

In the above embodiment, after the terminal23, the seal member24, and the retainer25are attached to the front end portion of the wire20, the front end portion of the wire20is drawn out from the opening53, but there is no limitation to this procedure. For example, the terminal23, the seal member24, and the retainer25may be attached to the front end portion of the wire20after the wires10,20, and30are surrounded by the shield members50and60.

In the wire harness1of the above embodiment, the two branch wires20and30branch from the trunk wire10, but there is no limitation to this configuration. For example, three or more branch wires may branch from the trunk wire10.

In the above embodiment, the wire10is embodied as an unshielded wire, but there is no limitation to this configuration. For example, the wire10may also be embodied as a shielded wire that has its own electromagnetic shielding structure. In this case, the rear end portion of the wire10may be exposed from the shield members50and60, for example.

In the above embodiment, the wire20is embodied as an unshielded wire, but the wire20may also be embodied as a shielded wire. In this case, the front end portion of the wire20may be exposed from the shield members50and60, for example.

In the above embodiment, the wire30is embodied as an unshielded wire, but the wire30may also be embodied as a shielded wire. In this case, the front end portion of the wire30may be exposed from the shield members50and60, for example.

In the wire harness1of the above embodiment, an outer covering member that surrounds the outer peripheries of the wires10,20, and30may also be provided. As the outer covering member, it is possible to use a metal pipe, a resin pipe, a corrugated tube, a waterproof cover made of rubber, or a combination of any of these, for example.

In the above embodiment, the wire10is constituted by the two wires10A and10B, the wire20is constituted by the two wires20A and20B, and the wire30is constituted by the two wires30A and30B, but there is no limitation to this configuration. The number of wires constituting the wires10,20, and30can be changed according to the specifications of the vehicle V. For example, the wires10,20, and30may be constituted by three or more wires.

In the above embodiment, both of the in-vehicle devices M2and M3are embodied as batteries, but there is no limitation to this configuration. For example, a configuration is also possible in which one of the in-vehicle devices M2and M3is embodied as a battery and the other of the in-vehicle devices M2and M3is embodied as a power supply device that supplies power to the charging inlet M1. For example, a DC-DC converter can be used as the power supply device.

In the above embodiment, the in-vehicle devices M2and M3are embodied as batteries, but there is no limitation to this configuration. There is no particular limitation on the in-vehicle devices M2and M3so long as the in-vehicle devices M2and M3are electrical devices installed in the vehicle V.

In the above embodiment, the connector C1is embodied as a connector (charging connector) that constitutes the charging inlet M1, but there is no limitation to this configuration. For example, the connector C1may be embodied as a connector that is provided in an in-vehicle device other than the charging inlet Ml. Also, the connector C1may be embodied as a connector that is electrically connected to an in-vehicle device other than the charging inlet M1.

The arrangement relationship between the charging inlet M1and the in-vehicle devices M2and M3in the vehicle V is not limited to that in the above embodiment, and may be changed as appropriate according to the configuration of the vehicle V.

The disclosed embodiment is an illustrative example in all aspects and should not be considered as restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the above descriptions but by the claims, and is intended to encompass all modifications within the meanings and scope that are equivalent to the claims.