JP7786223B2 - Electrical equipment - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to electrical devices.

Conventionally, electrical devices that can prevent liquid from seeping into the housing are known. For example, if liquid adheres to the top of the housing, the liquid is drained through grooves provided between the components that make up the housing (Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-061401

The conventional configurations described above can prevent liquid from entering the housing from the outside. However, electrical devices are also known that have flow paths or other sections inside the housing where liquid can exist. In these cases, there is a possibility of liquid leaking inside the housing. For example, if it is possible to detect liquid entering a chamber inside the housing where electrical components or the like are located, the electrical device can be prevented from being affected by the liquid.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above and provides an electrical device that can detect the intrusion of liquid.

An electric device mounted on a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, as an example, includes a motor, a pump, a housing having an accommodation chamber , a through hole, a flow path for hydraulic oil, and a pump mounting hole for accommodating at least a portion of the pump therein, a first wiring connected to ground, and a second wiring configured to receive a voltage, and the electric device includes a substrate disposed in the accommodation chamber, a first terminal provided on the first wiring, a second terminal provided on the second wiring, a first electronic component, a first solder joining the first terminal and the first electronic component, and a second solder joining the second terminal and the first electronic component, and a detection unit having an input terminal electrically connected to one of the first wiring and the second wiring, and outputting a detection signal when a voltage applied to the input terminal deviates from a predetermined range , and the motor is attached to a first mounting surface side which is one surface of the housing. the pump mounting hole opens to the first mounting surface, the through-hole opens to the first mounting surface and a second mounting surface opposite the first mounting surface, the storage chamber is provided on the second mounting surface side and further has an upper space, a first lower space recessed downward from the upper space, and a second lower space recessed downward from the upper space and separated from the first lower space in the horizontal direction, the substrate further has a first portion disposed in the first lower space and a second portion disposed in the second lower space, the first lower space communicates with the through-hole or is located below the through-hole, the first solder and the second solder are provided in the first portion and are located lower than any other solder provided in the first portion, and at least one of the first solder and the second solder is located lower than the detection unit. Therefore, as an example, when liquid penetrates into the storage chamber and corrodes at least one of the first solder and the second solder, the electrical connection between the first wiring and the second wiring by the conductive portion is broken. This causes a change in the voltage applied to the input terminal, and when this change causes the voltage applied to the input terminal to deviate from a predetermined range, the detection portion outputs a detection signal. In other words, the electrical device can detect that liquid has penetrated into the storage chamber using the detection portion.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a hydraulic pressure control device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the hydraulic pressure control device of the first embodiment taken along line F2-F2 in FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing by the ECU according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a hydraulic pressure control device according to the second embodiment.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In this specification, the vertically upward direction is basically defined as the upward direction, and the vertically downward direction is basically defined as the downward direction. In addition, in this specification, components according to the embodiment and descriptions of the components may be described using multiple expressions. The components and their descriptions are merely examples and are not limited by the expressions in this specification. The components may also be identified by names different from those in this specification. The components may also be described using expressions different from those in this specification.

Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a hydraulic pressure control device 10 according to a first embodiment. The hydraulic pressure control device 10 is an example of an electrical device. The hydraulic pressure control device 10 is mounted on a vehicle 1, such as an automobile. The hydraulic pressure control device 10 adjusts the pressure (hydraulic pressure) in the hydraulic lines of the brake device of the vehicle 1. However, the hydraulic pressure control device 10 is not limited to this example.

As shown in the drawings, for convenience, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined in this specification. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are perpendicular to one another. The X-axis extends along the width of the hydraulic control device 10. The Y-axis extends along the thickness of the hydraulic control device 10. The Z-axis extends along the height of the hydraulic control device 10.

Furthermore, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are defined herein. The X direction is the direction along the X axis, and includes the +X direction indicated by the X axis arrow and the -X direction, which is the opposite direction of the X axis arrow. The Y direction is the direction along the Y axis, and includes the +Y direction indicated by the Y axis arrow and the -Y direction, which is the opposite direction of the Y axis arrow. The Z direction is the direction along the Z axis, and includes the +Z direction (upward) indicated by the Z axis arrow and the -Z direction (downward) which is the opposite direction of the Z axis arrow.

The hydraulic control device 10 has a housing 11, a pump 12, a motor 13, and an electronic control unit (ECU) 14. The motor 13 is an example of an actuator. The housing 11 has a housing block 21 and a cover 22.

The housing block 21 is, for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped block made of metal or synthetic resin. However, the housing block 21 is not limited to this example. The pump 12, motor 13, and ECU 14 are attached to the housing block 21. Furthermore, various components such as a solenoid actuator are attached to the housing block 21.

The housing block 21 has a first mounting surface 21a and a second mounting surface 21b. The first mounting surface 21a and the second mounting surface 21b are outer surfaces of the housing block 21. The first mounting surface 21a is formed to be approximately flat and faces in the +Y direction. The second mounting surface 21b is located on the opposite side of the first mounting surface 21a. The second mounting surface 21b is formed to be approximately flat and faces in the -Y direction.

The housing block 21 is provided with a pump mounting hole 25, a flow path 26, and a through-hole 27. Other holes and grooves may also be provided in the housing block 21. Furthermore, the housing block 21 may be provided with various flow paths, not limited to the illustrated flow path 26.

The pump mounting hole 25 is a recess recessed from the first mounting surface 21a in approximately the -Y direction. The pump mounting hole 25 opens into the first mounting surface 21a at approximately the center of the first mounting surface 21a. The pump mounting hole 25 is connected to the brake device's fluid path through a flow path 26.

The through-hole 27 penetrates the housing block 21 substantially in the Y direction. Therefore, the through-hole 27 is open at the first mounting surface 21a and the second mounting surface 21b. The through-hole 27 is spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 25 in the -Z direction, for example. Therefore, the through-hole 27 is located lower than the pump mounting hole 25. Note that the through-hole 27 may also be spaced apart from the pump mounting hole 25 in another direction. The through-hole 27 communicates with the pump mounting hole 25, for example, via a groove provided in the first mounting surface 21a.

The cover 22 is attached to the second mounting surface 21b. A storage chamber 28 is provided between the cover 22 and the second mounting surface 21b. The storage chamber 28 is a space provided inside the housing 11. The storage chamber 28 is in communication with the through-hole 27. The space between the cover 22 and the second mounting surface 21b is liquid-tightly sealed, for example, by a sealant.

The pump 12 is, for example, a gear pump. However, the pump 12 may be another type of pump. At least a portion of the pump 12 is housed in the pump mounting hole 25. The pump 12 can send hydraulic oil (brake fluid) to the fluid passages of the brake device.

The hydraulic oil is, for example, an oil containing at least one of glycoethers, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, polyglycols, diethylene glycol, and a rust inhibitor. However, the hydraulic oil is not limited to these examples.

The pump 12 sends hydraulic oil to the brake system's fluid path through the flow path 26. Therefore, the hydraulic oil flows through the flow path 26. Hydraulic oil is an example of a liquid. However, the liquid may be other liquids such as engine oil.

The motor 13 is, for example, a three-phase brushless motor. However, the motor 13 may be other types of motor. The motor 13 has a casing 31, a motor shaft 32, and motor terminals 33. Furthermore, the motor 13 has various parts such as bearings, a rotor, and a stator.

The casing 31 is attached to the first mounting surface 21a of the housing block 21. Therefore, the first mounting surface 21a faces the motor 13. The casing 31 covers the pump mounting hole 25 and the through-hole 27. The space between the casing 31 and the first mounting surface 21a is liquid-tightly sealed, for example, by a sealant that surrounds the pump mounting hole 25 and the through-hole 27.

The motor shaft 32 is the output shaft of the motor 13. The motor shaft 32 is rotatably supported around the central axis Ax, for example, by a bearing. The central axis Ax is the center of rotation of the motor shaft 32. The pump mounting hole 25 is located on the central axis Ax.

The motor terminal 33 protrudes from the casing 31 in the -Y direction. The motor terminal 33 includes, for example, an electrode connected to the stator and a cover that covers the electrode. The motor terminal 33 passes through the through-hole 27 and extends beyond the second mounting surface 21b.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the hydraulic pressure control device 10 of the first embodiment, taken along line F2-F2 in Figure 1. Figure 2 also shows a schematic diagram of the circuitry in the ECU 14. As shown in Figure 2, the ECU 14 has a circuit board 41, a power supply unit 42, a circuit breaker 43, a drive unit 44, an integrated IC 45, a microcomputer 46, a first conductive unit 51, and a second conductive unit 52. The integrated IC 45 is an example of a detection unit. The first conductive unit 51 and the second conductive unit 52 are examples of conductive units.

The substrate 41 is, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). However, the substrate 41 may also be another type of substrate. The substrate 41 is disposed in the accommodation chamber 28. The substrate 41 is disposed along the X-Z plane and is attached to the housing block 21, for example, by screws. However, the substrate 41 may also be attached to the cover 22.

The power supply unit 42, the interrupter 43, the driver 44, the integrated IC 45, the microcomputer 46, the first conductive unit 51, and the second conductive unit 52 are each part of a circuit provided in the ECU 14. The power supply unit 42, the interrupter 43, the driver 44, the integrated IC 45, the microcomputer 46, the first conductive unit 51, and the second conductive unit 52 may each be, for example, a circuit provided on the substrate 41, an IC mounted on the substrate 41, or a part formed jointly by a circuit provided on the substrate 41 and an IC mounted on the substrate 41.

Ground 60 and multiple wirings 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, and 67 are provided on substrate 41. Wiring 64 is an example of a third wiring. Ground 60 and wirings 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, and 67 are formed, for example, by conductors provided on substrate 41. Note that ground 60 and wirings 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, and 67 may include other components or parts.

Ground 60 is, for example, a ground plane and is set to ground potential. Wiring 61 is connected to the power supply unit 42, the interrupter 43, the integrated IC 45, and the first conductive unit 51. Wiring 62 is connected to the integrated IC 45, the first conductive unit 51, and the second conductive unit 52.

Wiring 63 is connected to the integrated IC 45, the second conductive section 52, and ground 60. Wiring 64 is connected to the circuit breaker 43 and the drive section 44. Wiring 65 is connected to the integrated IC 45 and the microcomputer 46. Wiring 66 is connected to the circuit breaker 43 and the microcomputer 46. Wiring 67 is connected to the microcomputer 46 and, for example, an external terminal of the hydraulic control device 10.

Wiring 61 and wiring 62 are connected to each other by a first conductive portion 51. The first conductive portion 51 has lands (pads) 71 and 72, a resistor 73, and solder 74 and 75. Land 71 is an example of a first terminal. Land 72 is an example of a second terminal. Resistor 73 is an example of a first electronic component. Solder 74 is an example of a first solder. Solder 75 is an example of a second solder.

Land 71 is provided at one end of wiring 62. Land 72 is provided at one end of wiring 61. Lands 71 and 72 are provided spaced apart from each other on substrate 41. Note that the first terminal and second terminal are not limited to lands 71 and 72, and may be other terminals such as through holes.

Solder 74 joins land 71 to one terminal of resistor 73. Solder 75 joins land 72 to the other terminal of resistor 73. This allows first conductive portion 51 to establish electrical continuity between wiring 61 and wiring 62.

Wiring 62 and wiring 63 are connected to each other by second conductive portion 52. Second conductive portion 52 has lands (pads) 81 and 82, a resistor 83, and solder 84 and 85. Land 81 is an example of a first terminal. Land 82 is an example of a second terminal. Resistor 83 is an example of a first electronic component. Solder 84 is an example of a first solder. Solder 85 is an example of a second solder.

Land 81 is provided at one end of wiring 63. Land 82 is provided at one end of wiring 62. Lands 81 and 82 are provided spaced apart from each other on substrate 41. Note that the first terminal and second terminal are not limited to lands 81 and 82, and may be other terminals such as through holes.

Solder 84 joins land 81 to one terminal of resistor 83. Solder 85 joins land 82 to the other terminal of resistor 83. This allows second conductive portion 52 to establish electrical continuity between wiring 62 and wiring 63.

The power supply unit 42 is provided on the substrate 41 and is electrically connected to, for example, the battery of the vehicle 1. The power supply unit 42 applies, for example, the battery voltage to the wiring 61. Note that the power supply unit 42 may also apply a voltage different from the battery voltage to the wiring 61.

The interrupter 43 is, for example, a relay. The interrupter 43 is provided between the wiring 61 and the wiring 64. In other words, the wiring 64 is electrically connected to the wiring 61 via the interrupter 43. The interrupter 43 can be switched between a state in which the wiring 61 and the wiring 64 are electrically connected to each other, and a state in which the electrical connection between the wiring 61 and the wiring 64 is interrupted.

The drive unit 44 is, for example, a driver for the motor 13. The drive unit 44 is connected to the motor terminal 33 of the motor 13, for example, via a connector. The connector is mounted on the board 41, for example, by press-fit. Note that the motor terminal 33 may also be connected directly to the board 41. The drive unit 44 can output a drive signal to the motor 13 to drive the motor 13.

The integrated IC 45 is mounted on the substrate 41. The integrated IC 45 has three monitor terminals 45a, 45b, and an output terminal 45c. The monitor terminal 45b is an example of an input terminal. The integrated IC 45 may also have various other terminals.

Monitor terminal 45a is connected to wiring 61. Based on the voltage applied to monitor terminal 45a, integrated IC 45 determines whether a predetermined voltage is being applied to wiring 61. For example, if the voltage applied to wiring 61 deviates from a predetermined range, integrated IC 45 outputs a signal to microcontroller 46. Monitor terminal 45b is connected to wiring 62. Output terminal 45c is connected to wiring 65.

The microcomputer 46 is mounted on the circuit board 41. The microcomputer 46 can control the circuit breaker 43 via wiring 66. The microcomputer 46 can also control, for example, the vehicle 1's lamps via wiring 67.

The ECU 14 further includes an electronic component 91 and solder 92. The electronic component 91 is an example of a second electronic component. The solder 92 is an example of a third solder. The electronic component 91 is a resistor or other electronic component. The solder 92 joins the terminal of the electronic component 91 to a land on the substrate 41.

The substrate 41 of the ECU 14 has a surface 101 and an edge 102. The surface 101 is the substantially flat outer surface of the substrate 41, facing, for example, in the +Y direction or the -Y direction. For example, the lands 71, 72, 81, and 82 are provided on the surface 101. The edge 102 is the edge of the substrate 41 and faces in a direction substantially perpendicular to the Y direction.

In this embodiment, the substrate 41 is formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape. Therefore, the edge 102 has an upper edge 102a, a lower edge 102b, and two side edges 102c and 102d. The upper edge 102a extends substantially in the X direction and faces substantially in the +Z direction. The lower edge 102b is spaced from the upper edge 102a in the -Z direction. The lower edge 102b extends substantially in the X direction and faces substantially in the -Z direction. The side edges 102c and 102d connect both ends of the upper edge 102a and the lower edge 102b.

A notch 105 is provided in the substrate 41. The notch 105 is a recess recessed from the lower edge 102b in the +Z direction. In other words, the notch 105 opens into the lower edge 102b. The notch 105 is spaced apart from the two side edges 102c, 102d. Therefore, the lower edge 102b is divided into two by the notch 105.

In this embodiment, the cover 22 has a peripheral wall 111 and a protrusion 112. The peripheral wall 111 is formed in a generally rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the Y direction. The storage chamber 28 is provided inside the peripheral wall 111. In other words, the peripheral wall 111 surrounds the substrate 41 placed in the storage chamber 28. Note that the housing block 21 may also have the peripheral wall 111.

The peripheral wall 111 has an upper wall 111a, a lower wall 111b, and two side walls 111c and 111d. The upper wall 111a extends substantially in the X direction along the upper edge 102a of the substrate 41. The lower wall 111b is spaced from the upper wall 111a in the -Z direction. The lower wall 111b extends substantially in the X direction along the lower edge 102b. The side walls 111c and 111d connect both ends of the upper wall 111a and the lower wall 111b.

The protrusion 112 protrudes upward from the lower wall 111b. In other words, the protrusion 112 protrudes from the lower wall 111b toward the inside of the storage chamber 28. The protrusion 112 is provided across the entire storage chamber 28 in the Y direction. A sealant provides a liquid-tight seal between the protrusion 112 and the second mounting surface 21b. At least a portion of the protrusion 112 is housed in the notch 105 of the substrate 41.

A hole 113 is provided in the protrusion 112. The hole 113 penetrates the protrusion 112 in the Y direction. For example, a screw 114 passes through the hole 113 to attach the cover 22 to the housing block 21.

By protruding the protrusion 112 from the lower wall 111b, the storage chamber 28 is divided into an upper space 120, a first lower space 121, and a second lower space 122. In other words, the storage chamber 28 has an upper space 120, a first lower space 121, and a second lower space 122. In Figure 2, the upper space 120, the first lower space 121, and the second lower space 122 are schematically divided by dashed two-dot lines.

The upper space 120 is a portion of the storage chamber 28 located above the upward (+Z direction) end 112a of the protrusion 112. The first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are portions of the storage chamber 28 located below the upward end 112a of the protrusion 112.

The respective upward ends of the first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are connected to the upper space 120. In other words, the first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are spaces recessed downward from the upper space 120.

The first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are separated from each other in the horizontal direction by the protrusion 112. In other words, the first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are separated from each other in the horizontal direction via the protrusion 112.

The substrate 41 has an upper portion 130, a first lower portion 131, and a second lower portion 132. The first lower portion 131 is an example of a first portion. The second lower portion 132 is an example of a 21st portion.

The upper portion 130 is the portion of the substrate 41 that is arranged in the upper space 120 of the storage chamber 28. The first lower portion 131 is the portion of the substrate 41 that is arranged in the first lower space 121 of the storage chamber 28. The second lower portion 132 is the portion of the substrate 41 that is arranged in the second lower space 122 of the storage chamber 28.

The respective upward ends of the first lower portion 131 and the second lower portion 132 are connected to the upper portion 130. The first lower portion 131 and the second lower portion 132 are separated in the horizontal direction by the notch 105 and the protrusion 112. In other words, the first lower portion 131 and the second lower portion 132 are spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction via the notch 105 and the protrusion 112.

At least a portion of the power supply unit 42, the circuit breaker 43, the driver 44, the integrated IC 45, and the microcomputer 46 are provided in the upper portion 130. Meanwhile, the first conductive portion 51, the second conductive portion 52, and at least a portion of the electronic component 91 are provided in the first lower portion 131. Therefore, the solders 74, 75, 84, 85, and 92 are provided in the first lower portion 131.

The first conductive portion 51 and the second conductive portion 52 are located below the interrupter 43, driver 44, integrated IC 45, and microcomputer 46. Therefore, the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 are located below the interrupter 43, driver 44, integrated IC 45, and microcomputer 46. Note that one of the solders 74 and 75 and one of the solders 84 and 85 may be located above the interrupter 43, driver 44, integrated IC 45, and microcomputer 46. Furthermore, the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 may be located at the same height as the driver 44.

Solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 are located at the same height as solder 92. However, solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 may be located higher than solder 92. The volume of each of solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 is smaller than the volume of solder 92.

The motor terminal 33 is at least partially connected to the first lower portion 131. The motor terminal 33 may also be connected to the upper portion 130 directly above the first lower portion 131. Therefore, the end of the through hole 27 of the housing block 21 opens toward at least one of the first lower portion 131 and a portion of the upper portion 130 directly above the first lower portion 131. Furthermore, the first lower space 121 is in communication with the through hole 27 or is located below the through hole 27.

In the hydraulic control device 10 described above, hydraulic oil may leak from the pump 12. The hydraulic oil moves downward due to gravity. The space between the housing block 21 and the casing 31 is sealed. Therefore, hydraulic oil in the pump mounting hole 25 is discharged into the through-hole 27.

The space between the inner surface of the through-hole 27 and the motor terminal 33 may be sealed, for example, with a sealant. There is a possibility that hydraulic oil may penetrate the sealant and enter the storage chamber 28 from the through-hole 27.

The hydraulic oil that has entered the storage chamber 28 moves downward due to gravity. As a result, the hydraulic oil accumulates in the first lower space 121. The protrusion 112 restricts the hydraulic oil in the first lower space 121 from moving into the second lower space 122.

When the level of hydraulic oil stored in the first lower space 121 rises, the hydraulic oil adheres to the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85. The hydraulic oil corrodes (dissolves) the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85. The hydraulic control device 10 can detect that hydraulic oil has entered the storage chamber 28 based on corrosion of at least one of the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85. This is explained in detail below.

First, we will explain the case where at least one of the solders 74, 75 corrodes. A ground-side wiring 140 is provided on the substrate 41. The ground-side wiring 140 has a second conductive portion 52 and wiring 62, 63. Therefore, the ground-side wiring 140 is connected to the ground 70 and is electrically connected to the monitor terminal 45b.

In the following description, the ground side wiring 140 is an example of a first wiring, and the wiring 61 is an example of a second wiring. In the first conductive portion 51, the land 71 is provided on the ground side wiring 140. The land 72 is provided on the wiring 61.

Battery voltage is applied to wiring 61 by power supply unit 42. Therefore, in first conductive portion 51, a positive voltage is applied to solders 74, 75. Applying a common positive and negative voltage promotes corrosion of solders 74, 75 by hydraulic oil.

The first conductive portion 51 provides electrical continuity between the wiring 61 and the ground-side wiring 140. However, when at least one of the solders 74, 75 corrodes, the electrical connection between the wiring 61 and the ground-side wiring 140 provided by the first conductive portion 51 is severed (disconnected). When a disconnection occurs in the first conductive portion 51, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b of the integrated IC 45 drops to almost zero.

The integrated IC 45 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b exceeds a predetermined threshold (first threshold). The first threshold is, for example, a value between zero and the voltage (initial voltage) applied to the monitor terminal 45b when the first conductive portion 51 connects the wiring 61 and the ground side wiring 140. In other words, when a break occurs in the first conductive portion 51, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b drops below the first threshold. In other words, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b falls outside a predetermined range (first range) equal to or greater than the first threshold. In this case, the lower limit of the first range is the first threshold, and there is no upper limit to the first range. Note that an upper limit to the first range may also be set.

When the integrated IC 45 determines that the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b has deviated from the first range, it outputs a detection signal to the microcomputer 46 via the wiring 65. Upon receiving the detection signal, the microcomputer 46 outputs a control signal to the cutoff unit 43 via the wiring 66. The cutoff unit 43 cuts off the electrical connection between the wiring 61 and the wiring 64 based on the control signal. In other words, when the integrated IC 45 outputs a detection signal, the cutoff unit 43 cuts off the electrical connection between the wiring 61 and the wiring 64 based on the detection signal. This makes it possible, for example, to prevent the wiring 64 from being short-circuited by hydraulic oil.

Furthermore, if the integrated IC 45 determines that the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b has deviated from the first range, it outputs a control signal to a lamp of the vehicle 1 via the wiring 67. The lamp lights up or flashes based on the control signal. In other words, when the integrated IC 45 outputs a detection signal, the lamp of the vehicle 1 lights up or flashes based on the detection signal. This allows, for example, the driver (user) to recognize that hydraulic oil has entered the storage chamber 28.

The integrated IC 45 may output a control signal via the wiring 67, for example, to a horn or a communication device. For example, the driver can be made aware that hydraulic oil has entered the storage chamber 28 by the sound of the horn. The communication device can also notify a device such as a control center or a smartphone that hydraulic oil has entered the storage chamber 28.

Next, we will explain what happens when at least one of the solders 84, 85 corrodes. The power supply side wiring 150 is provided on the substrate 41. The power supply side wiring 150 has a first conductive portion 51 and wiring 61, 62. Therefore, a voltage is applied to the power supply side wiring 150, and the power supply side wiring 150 is electrically connected to the monitor terminal 45b.

In the following description, wiring 63 is an example of a first wiring, and power supply side wiring 150 is an example of a second wiring. In the second conductive section 52, land 81 is provided on wiring 63. Land 82 is provided on power supply side wiring 150. Wiring 64 is electrically connected to power supply side wiring 150 through interrupter section 43.

The second conductive portion 52 provides electrical continuity between the wiring 63 and the power supply side wiring 150. However, corrosion of at least one of the solders 84, 85 causes a disconnection between the wiring 63 and the power supply side wiring 150 via the second conductive portion 52. When a disconnection occurs in the second conductive portion 52, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b of the integrated IC 45 increases.

The integrated IC 45 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b exceeds a predetermined threshold (second threshold). The second threshold is, for example, higher than the voltage (initial voltage) applied to the monitor terminal 45b when the second conductive portion 52 is conducting between the wiring 63 and the power supply side wiring 150. In other words, when a break occurs in the second conductive portion 52, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b rises above the second threshold. In other words, the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b deviates from a predetermined range (second range) below the second threshold. In this case, the upper limit of the second range is the second threshold, and there is no lower limit to the second range. The second threshold is higher than the first threshold. Note that a lower limit to the second range may also be set.

If the integrated IC 45 determines that the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b has deviated from the second range, it outputs a determination signal to the microcomputer 46 via the wiring 65. Upon receiving the determination signal, the microcomputer 46 outputs a control signal to the cutoff unit 43 and the lamps of the vehicle 1.

Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the ECU 14 in the first embodiment. As described above, the ECU 14 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is below the first threshold value using the integrated IC 45 (S1). In other words, the ECU 14 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is outside the first range.

If the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is not below the first threshold (S1: No), the ECU 14 determines, via the integrated IC 45, whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b exceeds the second threshold (S2). In other words, the ECU 14 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is outside the second range. In S1 and S2, the ECU 14 determines whether the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is outside a predetermined range (set range) equal to or greater than the first threshold and equal to or less than the second threshold. If the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b is not above the second threshold (S2: No), the process returns to S1.

On the other hand, if the voltage applied to monitor terminal 45b falls below the first threshold in S1 (S1: Yes), or if the voltage applied to monitor terminal 45b exceeds the second threshold in S2 (S2: Yes), the voltage applied to monitor terminal 45b deviates from the set range. If the voltage applied to monitor terminal 45b deviates from the set range, microcomputer 46 causes breaker 43 to break the electrical connection between wire 61 and wire 64 (S3). Furthermore, microcomputer 46 outputs a control signal to a lamp of vehicle 1 (S4). The first range, second range, and set range in the above description are each an example of a predetermined range.

As described above, the hydraulic control device 10 can detect that hydraulic oil has entered the storage chamber 28 due to corrosion of at least one of the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85. However, the detection of hydraulic oil entering the storage chamber 28 by the hydraulic control device 10 is not limited to the above example.

In the above example, the hydraulic oil accumulated in the first lower space 121 corrodes the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85. However, for example, hydraulic oil moving downward due to gravity may come into contact with the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85, corroding the solders 74, 75, 84, and 85.

In the hydraulic pressure control device 10 according to the first embodiment described above, the substrate 41 disposed in the accommodation chamber 28 of the housing 11 has a ground side wiring 140 and a wiring 61. The ground side wiring 140 is connected to the ground 60. A voltage is applied to the wiring 61. The first conductive portion 51 has lands 71 and 72, a resistor 73, and solder 74 and 75. The land 71 is provided on the ground side wiring 140. The land 72 is provided on the wiring 61. The solder 74 joins the land 71 to the resistor 73. The solder 75 joins the land 72 to the resistor 73. Therefore, the first conductive portion 51 electrically connects the ground side wiring 140 to the wiring 61. The integrated IC 45 has a monitor terminal 45b. The monitor terminal 45b is electrically connected to the ground side wiring 140. At least one of the solders 74, 75 is located below the integrated IC 45. For example, a liquid (hydraulic oil) that corrodes at least one of the solders 74, 75 may enter the housing chamber 28. The liquid that accumulates in the housing chamber 28 contacts at least one of the solders 74, 75 before contacting the integrated IC 45. If the liquid corrodes at least one of the solders 74, 75, the electrical connection between the ground wiring 140 and the wiring 61 via the first conductive portion 51 is broken, causing a change in the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b. If this change causes the voltage applied to the monitor terminal 45b to deviate from a predetermined range, the integrated IC 45 outputs a detection signal. In other words, the hydraulic control device 10 of this embodiment can detect the intrusion of liquid into the housing chamber 28 using the integrated IC 45. Furthermore, the hydraulic control device 10 can detect the intrusion of liquid before the liquid accumulated in the housing chamber 28 contacts the integrated IC 45, thereby preventing malfunctions of the integrated IC 45.

Wire 64 is electrically connected to wire 61. The interrupter 43 can interrupt the electrical connection between wire 61 and wire 64. The interrupter 43 interrupts the electrical connection between wire 61 and wire 64 based on a detection signal output by the integrated IC 45. At least one of the solders 74, 75 is located below the interrupter 43. This allows the hydraulic control device 10 of this embodiment to detect the intrusion of liquid accumulated in the storage chamber 28 before it comes into contact with the interrupter 43, thereby preventing malfunction of the interrupter 43. In other words, when liquid intrudes into the storage chamber 28, the hydraulic control device 10 can more reliably interrupt the power supply to the component (motor 13) connected to wire 64.

The drive unit 44 is connected to the wiring 64 and is configured to drive the motor 13. At least one of the solders 74, 75 is located below the drive unit 44 or at the same height as the drive unit 44. This allows the hydraulic control device 10 to more reliably cut off the power supply to the drive unit 44 and the motor 13 when liquid enters the storage chamber 28.

Solder 92 connects electronic component 91 and substrate 41. Each of solders 74 and 75 is located above solder 92 or at the same height as solder 92. The volume of each of solders 74 and 75 is smaller than the volume of solder 92. As a result, when liquid accumulated in the storage chamber 28 comes into contact with solders 74, 75, and 92, solders 74 and 75 corrode before solder 92. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can detect that liquid has entered the storage chamber 28 before solder 92 corrodes.

A flow path 26 is provided in the housing 11. A liquid (hydraulic oil) that corrodes at least one of the solders 74, 75 flows through the flow path 26. The liquid in the flow path 26 may leak into the storage chamber 28. In this case, the hydraulic control device 10 detects that the liquid has entered the storage chamber 28 using the integrated IC 45, as described above. In other words, the hydraulic control device 10 of this embodiment can detect that the liquid in the flow path 26 has leaked into the storage chamber 28 using the integrated IC 45.

Second Embodiment
The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. In the following description of the embodiment, components having the same functions as components already described are given the same reference numerals as the previously described components, and further description may be omitted. Furthermore, multiple components given the same reference numerals do not necessarily have all the same functions and properties, and may have different functions and properties according to each embodiment.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a hydraulic pressure control device 10 according to a second embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, in the second embodiment, solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 are located below solder 92. Furthermore, solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 are located below any other solder provided in the first lower portion 131. Note that solders other than solders 74, 75, 84, and 85 do not necessarily have to be provided in the first lower portion 131.

In the hydraulic control device 10 of the second embodiment described above, the storage chamber 28 has an upper space 120, a first lower space 121, and a second lower space 122. The first lower space 121 and the second lower space 122 are each recessed downward from the upper space 120. The second lower space 122 is separated from the first lower space 121 in the horizontal direction. The substrate 41 has a first lower portion 131 disposed in the first lower space 121 and a second lower portion 132 disposed in the second lower space 122. The solders 74 and 75 are provided in the first lower portion 131 and are located lower than any other solders provided in the first lower portion 131. This allows the hydraulic control device 10 to detect the intrusion of liquid into the first lower space 121 before the liquid corrodes other solders provided in the first lower portion 131. Furthermore, in the hydraulic control device 10, the second lower space 122 is separated from the first lower space 121 in the horizontal direction, which prevents liquid that has entered the first lower space 121 from entering the second lower space 122. As a result, in the hydraulic control device 10, for example, solder can be provided in the second lower portion 132 below the solders 74 and 75, improving the degree of freedom in arranging the solder in the second lower portion 132.

In the embodiments described above, resistors 73 and 83 are examples of first electronic components. However, the first electronic component may be any of a variety of other electronic components, or may simply be a conductor.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the integrated IC 45 is an example of a detection unit, and the monitor terminal 45b is an example of an input terminal. However, the microcomputer 46 may also be an example of a detection unit. In this case, the microcomputer 46 has an input terminal.

As an example, the electrical device mounted on a vehicle according to at least one of the embodiments described above includes a housing having a storage chamber provided therein, a first wiring connected to ground, and a second wiring configured to receive a voltage, and includes a substrate disposed in the storage chamber, a first terminal provided on the first wiring, a second terminal provided on the second wiring, a first electronic component, a first solder joining the first terminal and the first electronic component, and a second solder joining the second terminal and the first electronic component, and a detection unit having an input terminal electrically connected to one of the first wiring and the second wiring and outputting a detection signal when the voltage applied to the input terminal deviates from a predetermined range, and at least one of the first solder and the second solder is located below the detection unit. Therefore, as an example, when liquid enters the storage chamber and corrodes at least one of the first solder and the second solder, the electrical connection between the first wiring and the second wiring is severed by the conductive portion. This causes a change in the voltage applied to the input terminal, and when this change causes the voltage applied to the input terminal to deviate from a predetermined range, the detection portion outputs a detection signal. In other words, the electrical device can detect the entry of liquid into the storage chamber using the detection portion. Furthermore, the electrical device can detect the entry of liquid before the liquid accumulated in the storage chamber comes into contact with the detection portion, thereby preventing malfunction of the detection portion.

As an example, the above-mentioned electrical device further includes a third wiring electrically connected to the second wiring and a disconnecting unit capable of disconnecting the electrical connection between the second wiring and the third wiring, the disconnecting unit configured to disconnect the electrical connection between the second wiring and the third wiring based on the detection signal, and at least one of the first solder and the second solder located below the disconnecting unit. Therefore, as an example, the electrical device can detect the intrusion of liquid accumulated in the storage chamber before it comes into contact with the disconnecting unit, thereby preventing malfunction of the disconnecting unit. In other words, the electrical device can more reliably cut off the power supply to the component connected to the third wiring when liquid intrudes into the storage chamber.

As an example, the above-mentioned electrical device further includes an actuator and a drive unit connected to the third wiring and configured to drive the actuator, and at least one of the first solder and the second solder is located below the drive unit or at the same height as the drive unit. Therefore, as an example, the electrical device can more reliably cut off the power supply to the drive unit and the actuator when liquid enters the storage chamber.

As an example, the above-mentioned electrical device further includes a second electronic component and a third solder that joins the second electronic component to the substrate, wherein the first solder and the second solder are each located above the third solder or at the same height as the third solder, and the volumes of the first solder and the second solder are each smaller than the volume of the third solder. Therefore, as an example, when liquid accumulated in the storage chamber comes into contact with the first solder, second solder, and third solder, the first solder and second solder corrode before the third solder corrodes. Therefore, the electrical device can detect that liquid has entered the storage chamber before the third solder corrodes.

In the above-described electrical device, for example, the storage chamber includes an upper space, a first lower space recessed downward from the upper space, and a second lower space recessed downward from the upper space and separated horizontally from the first lower space; the substrate includes a first portion disposed in the first lower space and a second portion disposed in the second lower space; the first solder and the second solder are provided in the first portion and positioned lower than any other solder provided in the first portion. Therefore, for example, the electrical device can detect the intrusion of liquid into the first lower space before the liquid corrodes other solder provided in the first portion. Furthermore, because the second lower space is separated horizontally from the first lower space, the electrical device can prevent liquid that has infiltrated the first lower space from infiltrating the second lower space. As a result, in the electrical device, for example, solder can be provided below the first solder and second solder in the second portion, improving the flexibility of solder placement in the second portion.

In one example of the electrical device, the housing is provided with a flow path through which a liquid that corrodes at least one of the first solder and the second solder flows. Therefore, as one example, the electrical device uses a detection unit to detect when liquid has entered the storage chamber, as described above. In other words, the electrical device can detect when liquid from the flow path has leaked into the storage chamber using the detection unit.

In the above explanation, suppression is defined as, for example, preventing an event, action, or influence from occurring, or reducing the severity of an event, action, or influence. Also, in the above explanation, restriction is defined as, for example, preventing movement or rotation, or allowing movement or rotation within a specified range and preventing movement or rotation beyond that specified range.

The above describes exemplary embodiments of the present invention, but the above embodiments and variations are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and variations can be implemented in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the configurations and shapes of each embodiment and variation can also be partially interchanged.

10...hydraulic pressure control device (electrical device), 11...housing, 13...motor (actuator), 26...flow path, 28...accommodation chamber, 41...substrate, 43...interrupter, 44...driver, 45...integrated IC (detector), 45b...monitor terminal (input terminal), 51...first conductive portion (conductive portion), 52...second conductive portion (conductive portion), 60...ground, 61...wiring (second wiring), 63...wiring (first wiring), 64...wiring (third wiring), 71, 81...lands (first terminal), 72, 8 2...land (second terminal), 73, 83...resistor (first electronic component), 74, 84...solder (first solder), 75, 85...solder (second solder), 91...electronic component (second electronic component), 92...solder (third solder), 120...upper space, 121...first lower space, 122...second lower space, 131...first lower portion (first portion), 132...second lower portion (second portion), 140...ground side wiring (first wiring), 150...power supply side wiring (second wiring).

Claims (5)

A motor;
A pump and
a housing having an accommodation chamber , a through hole, a flow path for hydraulic oil, and a pump mounting hole for accommodating at least a portion of the pump ;
a substrate disposed in the accommodation chamber, the substrate having a first wiring connected to ground and a second wiring configured to be applied with a voltage;
a conductive portion including a first terminal provided on the first wiring, a second terminal provided on the second wiring, a first electronic component, a first solder that joins the first terminal and the first electronic component, and a second solder that joins the second terminal and the first electronic component;
a detection unit having an input terminal electrically connected to one of the first wiring and the second wiring, and outputting a detection signal when a voltage applied to the input terminal deviates from a predetermined range;
Equipped with
the motor is attached to a first mounting surface side, which is one surface of the housing;
the pump mounting hole opens to the first mounting surface;
the through hole is open at the first mounting surface and at a second mounting surface opposite the first mounting surface,
the storage chamber is provided on the second mounting surface side and further includes an upper space, a first lower space recessed downward from the upper space, and a second lower space recessed downward from the upper space and separated from the first lower space in the horizontal direction,
the substrate further has a first portion disposed in the first lower space and a second portion disposed in the second lower space,
the first lower space is in communication with the through hole or is located below the through hole,
the first solder and the second solder are provided in the first portion and are located below any other solder provided in the first portion;
At least one of the first solder and the second solder is located below the detection portion.
Electrical equipment installed in a vehicle. a third wiring electrically connected to the second wiring;
a cutoff unit capable of cutting off an electrical connection between the second wiring and the third wiring;
Further comprising:
the interrupting unit is configured to interrupt the electrical connection between the second wiring and the third wiring based on the detection signal;
At least one of the first solder and the second solder is located below the interrupting portion.
10. The electrical device of claim 1. a drive unit connected to the third wiring and configured to drive the motor ;
Further comprising:
At least one of the first solder and the second solder is located below the driving unit or at the same height as the driving unit.
3. The electrical device of claim 2. a second electronic component;
a third solder that joins the second electronic component and the substrate;
Further comprising:
each of the first solder and the second solder is located above the third solder or at the same height as the third solder;
a volume of each of the first solder and the second solder is smaller than a volume of the third solder;
4. An electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the first electronic component is a resistor;
5. An electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.