JP3380324B2 - Temperature sensor - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a temperature sensor, and more particularly, to a surface of a temperature sensing object which is a rotating body or a stationary body such as a heating roller used in a fixing device such as a copying machine or a printer. The present invention relates to a contact type temperature sensor for contacting and detecting the surface temperature.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as one of the contact type temperature sensors of this type, for example, there is a temperature sensor described in Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 5-19929. In this temperature sensor, a heat-sensitive element is placed between the tips of a pair of metal plates, and the elastic force of the metal plate is used to move the tip of the heat-sensitive element to the temperature of a heating roller or the like. The temperature is detected by contacting the surface of the detection body.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a conventional temperature sensor of this type. In the figure, a narrow portion 23 in which the heat-sensitive element 22 is electrically joined and fixed to a portion extending from the terminal portions 21a and 21b to which external lead wires such as lead wires are connected.
a, 23b is formed on the pair of elongated metal plates 24, a holding body 25 for fixing and holding the narrow portions 23a, 23b of the pair of elongated metal plates 24 in a state where the narrow portions 23a, 23b are substantially parallel and close to each other; A heat-sensitive film is formed on the heat-sensitive film, and the heat-sensitive film includes a heat-sensitive element 22 formed of a thin film thermistor formed on two electrode surfaces, and the heat-sensitive element 22 is formed in the narrow portions 23a and 23b of the elongated metal plate 24. At the tip, this thermosensitive element 2
The two electrode surfaces are joined and fixed. The holding body 25 is formed with a through hole 26 for attaching the temperature sensor to the device.

This temperature sensor has a structure in which the width of the elongated metal plate 24 is narrower at the tip end than that on the side of the holding body 25, and although the contact force to the temperature-detected body is appropriately obtained, It does not increase the heat capacity near the thin film thermistor and has excellent thermal response characteristics. Moreover, since the elongated metal plate 24 is formed on the lead frame, there is an advantage that the assembly and manufacturing process is easy, and the fixing position can be accurately set when the heat sensitive element 22 is attached to the tip of the elongated metal plate 24. was there.

[0005]

However, in the above temperature sensor, the elongated metal plate 24 is wide on the side of the holding body 25 and the elongated metal plate 24 is on the side of the heat sensitive element 22 which is a narrow portion. The electrode surface of 22 is a pair of elongated metal plates 2
4 has a structure in which it is electrically joined and fixed by a method such as directly applying a brazing material to the tip of the narrow portion. This temperature sensor is attached so as to be at right angles to the rotation axis of the heat fixing roller, and is used by being pressed and fixed to the surface of the heat fixing roller.
In that case, if a deviation of the mounting angle (twist in the extension direction of the pair of elongated metal plates) occurs, the electrode portion of the heat-sensitive element 22 fixed to the tip of the elongated metal plate 24 and the elongated metal plate 24. There is a risk that the joint portion of the heat sensitive element 22 will be distorted and the electrode surface of the heat sensitive element 22 will be separated from the elongated metal plate 24 in combination with the vibration accompanying the rotation of the heat fixing roller, and the heat sensitive element will fall off and break.

Further, the portion of the elongated metal plate 24 on which the heat sensitive element 22 is mounted is made narrow to reduce the heat capacity in the vicinity of the heat sensitive element to improve the thermal response characteristics. However, since the elongated metal plate 24 has a wider shape on the holding body 25 side than the heat-sensitive portion, there is a drawback that the heat absorbed by the heat-sensitive portion is dissipated along the metal plate surface, and the heat response. The improvement in properties was not yet a satisfactory result, and there was room for improvement.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a durable temperature sensor having excellent thermal response characteristics and excellent mechanical strength of a heat-sensitive element mounting portion. It is a thing.

[0008]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the first temperature sensor of the present invention comprises first and second heat-sensitive parts for electrically coupling and fixing the electrodes of the heat-sensitive element, respectively. A connecting portion formed of a narrow metal plate portion that supports the first and second heat sensitive portions, a surrounding metal plate portion that substantially surrounds the first and second heat sensitive portions, and a terminal that is connected to the connecting portion. Part or one of the connecting parts, a terminal part connected to the surrounding metal plate part, a terminal part protruding from the terminal part, and supporting the heat sensitive element mounted on the surrounding metal plate part and the heat sensitive part. And a holder for fixing and holding the metal plate portion.

In the second temperature sensor of the present invention, a narrow metal plate portion extending from each of the pair of terminal portions, a surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and the pair of A heat-sensitive element in which electrodes are respectively connected to the tips of the narrow metal plate portions and mounted and fixed, and a holder in which the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion are fixedly held and the terminal portions are projected. The thin metal sheet portion on which the heat-sensitive element is mounted and the thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the surrounding metal sheet portion are provided.

The third temperature sensor of the present invention further comprises a narrow metal plate portion extending from the terminal portion connecting the first external lead wire and a terminal portion connecting the second external lead wire. A surrounding metal plate portion that is present and surrounds the narrow metal plate portion, and a leading end portion of the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion that faces the leading end portion are formed via narrow connecting portions, respectively. First and second heat-sensitive parts, heat-sensitive elements that are mounted and fixed by connecting respective electrodes to the first and second heat-sensitive parts, the narrow metal plate part and the surrounding metal plate part A thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the metal plate portion including the holding body for fixing and holding the terminal portion to project the terminal portion, and the first and second heat sensitive portions to which the electrodes of the heat sensitive element are connected, respectively. And are provided.

In a fourth temperature sensor of the present invention, a narrow metal plate portion extending from each of the pair of terminal portions, a surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and the pair of Recesses formed respectively at the tips of the narrow metal plate portions, heat-sensitive elements that are mounted and fixed by connecting electrodes to the recesses respectively, and the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion are fixed and held. A holding body projecting the terminal portion, a thin metal sheet portion on which the heat-sensitive element is placed, and a thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the surrounding metal plate portion, Is.

Further, the fifth temperature sensor of the present invention extends from the narrow metal plate portion extending from the terminal portion connecting the first external lead wire and the terminal portion connecting the second external lead wire. A surrounding metal plate portion that is present and surrounds the narrow metal plate portion, and a leading end portion of the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion that faces the leading end portion are formed via narrow connecting portions, respectively. The first and second heat sensitive parts, the depressions formed in the first and second heat sensitive portions, the heat sensitive element mounted and fixed by connecting electrodes to the depressions, respectively. The metal plate portion including a holding body having the width metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion fixedly held to project the terminal portion, and first and second heat sensitive portions to which electrodes of the heat sensitive element are connected, respectively. And a thin film sheet provided on at least one side thereof.

A sixth temperature sensor of the present invention is a pair of narrow metal plate portions extending from a terminal portion for connecting an external lead wire, and a surrounding metal surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions. A plate portion, a recess for mounting a heat-sensitive element at the tip of each of the pair of narrow metal plate portions, a heat-sensitive element mounted and fixed electrically in the recess so as to be electrically connected, and the pair of thin wires. At least the temperature of the metal plate portion including a part of the width metal plate part, a holding body that fixedly holds a part of the surrounding metal plate part that surrounds the pair of narrow width metal plate parts, and the heat sensitive part of the heat sensitive element. And a thin film sheet provided on a surface in contact with the detection body.

In the seventh temperature sensor of the present invention, the narrow metal plate portion extending from the terminal portion for connecting one of the external lead wires and the other metal plate portion surrounding the metal plate portion are provided. A surrounding metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion for connecting an external lead wire, a tip portion of the narrow metal plate portion, and a heat-sensitive element extending through the surrounding metal plate portion corresponding to the tip portion via a connecting portion. A pair of heat-sensitive parts for mounting thereon, a recess for mounting the heat-sensitive element in the heat-sensitive part, a heat-sensitive element mounted and fixed electrically in the recess so as to be electrically connected, and the narrow metal plate. A holding body for fixing and holding a part of the portion and the surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the narrow metal plate portion to project the terminal portion, and the connecting portion is formed in the extension direction of the both metal plate portions. At least on the surface of the metal plate portion including the heat-sensitive portion of the heat-sensitive element, which is in contact with the temperature sensing object. A thin sheet kicked and is characterized in that it comprises.

In the eighth temperature sensor of the present invention, a hole for positioning the temperature sensor and a protrusion are formed in the holder, and a protrusion for positioning the temperature sensor is provided at the tip of the overhang. Alternatively, at least one of the recesses is formed. The above configuration achieves the object.

[0016]

In the temperature sensor of the present invention, the metal portion of the temperature sensor is formed by the lead frame, and it is possible to reduce variations in the positional accuracy of each component. Furthermore, since the thermosensitive element can be placed in the recess formed in the metal plate and bonded and fixed, the positioning of the thermosensitive element becomes accurate, and the variation in the thermal response characteristics due to the positional deviation can be improved.
Further, it is possible to reduce variations in thermal response characteristics due to variations in shape and dimension. In addition, a narrow metal plate part including a heat-sensitive part on which a heat-sensitive element is mounted is formed elongated, and is connected to the heat-sensitive part through a narrow connecting part, and heat from the heat-sensitive part is mainly connected part. The thermal resistance can be increased because the fluid flows through. Therefore, heat dissipation from the temperature sensing object is reduced, and the thermal response characteristic is excellent.

Further, in the temperature sensor of the present invention, the heat-sensitive portion on which the heat-sensitive element is mounted is continuously provided by a thin metal plate,
Although it is poor in elasticity itself, by forming a surrounding metal plate part around the narrow metal plate part on which the heat sensitive element is mounted, the elasticity is enhanced and pressure contact with a temperature-detected body such as a heating roller is performed. It is intended to prevent the decrease in force and increase the mechanical strength to prevent the surface of the temperature-detecting body such as a rotating body from being damaged by foreign matter. Further, in the temperature sensor of the present invention, by narrowing the width of the narrow metal plate portion on which the heat sensitive element is mounted, the mounting angle shifts when the holding body is mounted on the apparatus main body (extension of a pair of elongated metal plates). (Twisting in the direction) The peeling and disconnection of the electrode surface of the heat sensitive element is eliminated by reducing the force generated by the distortion of the joint part of the heat sensitive element electrode part and the metal plate due to the twist of the part on which the heat sensitive element is placed. To do. Further, the holding body is formed with an overhang portion, and at least one of a protrusion and a concave portion is formed at the tip of the overhang portion, and the through hole formed in the holding body by forming the overhang portion. By forming a protrusion or a recess at a position away from the temperature sensor, the temperature sensor can be firmly attached to the device, and the positional deviation between the heat-sensitive part of the temperature sensor and the temperature sensing object can be prevented. .

[0018]

Embodiments of the temperature sensor according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of the temperature sensor of the present invention, FIG. 1 is a plan view of a lead frame used in the temperature sensor of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor of the present invention. Yes, heat sensitive element 11
The parts on which the parts are mounted and fixed and the holding body 8 for holding and fixing these metal parts are shown. In FIG. 1, reference numeral A is a lead frame, which is formed of a belt-shaped metal plate of stainless steel, Kovar, nickel alloy or the like by means of chemical etching or pressing. This lead frame A
The sprocket holes 1 are formed in the strip-shaped portion 2 at regular intervals, and the terminal portions 3a 'and 3b' to which external lead wires such as lead wires are connected extend from the strip-shaped portion 2 at right angles. A pair of narrow metal plate portions 3a, 3b are formed on the heat sensitive portion 5a via a connecting portion formed by an extremely thin metal plate.
Moreover, around the pair of narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b,
A U-shaped surrounding metal plate portion 4 is formed so as to surround the pair of narrow width metal plate portions 3a and 3b, and the surrounding metal plate portion 4 is connected to the band-like portion 2 by the extremely narrow width portions 4a and 4b. Further, recesses 6a and 6b for mounting the heat sensitive element 11 are formed at the tips of the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b by a method such as half etching.

A through hole or a screw hole (hereinafter referred to as a screw hole) 7 is formed in the holding body 8 shown by a dotted line, an overhanging portion 8a is formed on the terminal side of the holding body 8, and a tip portion thereof is formed. The protrusion 9 and the recess 10 are formed. The holding body 8 has a narrow metal plate portion 3 extending from the strip portion 2 of the lead frame A.
a part of a and 3b and a part of the extra-fine width parts 4a and 4b continuous with the surrounding metal plate part 4 are formed by resin molding a material such as insulating plastic by means such as transfer molding. The surrounding metal plate portion 4 and the metal plate portion on which the heat sensitive element is mounted are fixedly held.

Although the protrusion 8 and the recessed portion 10 are formed at the tip of the overhanging portion 8a of the holding body 8, it goes without saying that either one may be formed. The protruding portion 9 and the recessed portion 10 formed on these holding bodies 8 are
When the temperature sensor is attached to the device, the temperature sensor is fitted into a hole or a protrusion provided on the device side and used as a rotation stopper for the temperature sensor, and a screw or a bolt is screwed into or penetrates the screw hole 7 to form the device. If screwed on, the temperature sensor is supported and fixed at two points. Therefore, the protruding portion 9 and the recessed portion 1 are located at positions separated from the through shaft of the through hole or the screw hole 7.
By forming 0, the temperature sensor can be accurately positioned and firmly fixed.

Incidentally, if both the protruding portions 9 and the recessed portions 10 are formed on the holding body 8, even if the lead frames A on which the holding bodies 8 are formed are stacked, the The holding bodies 8 can be stacked regularly by fitting together at this portion. Therefore, there is an advantage that damage due to the collision of the lead frames during the manufacturing process or transportation can be prevented, and when the temperature sensor is attached to the device in which the temperature sensing object is incorporated, the strip-shaped portion 2 of the lead frame A, etc. Unnecessary parts can be separated and mounted.

Thermosensitive element 1 mounted on lead frame A
As shown in FIG. 5, reference numeral 1 is a heat sensitive element such as a thin film thermistor. The heat sensitive element 11 is fixed to the lead frame A by fixing the heat sensitive portion 5a formed near the tips of the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b of the lead frame A in a state where the holder 8 is resin-molded on the lead frame A. The formed depressions 6a, 6
A heat-sensitive element 11 such as a thin film thermistor is placed on the surface of b in a erected manner, and the electrode surface 11c of the heat-sensitive element 11 and the depressions 6a, 6b.
And a metal part of the above are joined by a known method using a brazing material such as a solder paste to be electrically connected. Then, at least the contact surface between the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b and the tip portion of the surrounding metal plate portion 4 on which the heat-sensitive element 11 is placed, at least the contact surface with the object to be detected, the abrasion resistance and heat resistance of a polyimide film or the like. The thin film sheet 12 having properties is attached.

Here, as an example of the heat sensitive element 11, FIG.
The heat sensitive element 11 such as a thin film thermistor will be described in detail below. The thermosensitive element 11 includes an insulating substrate 11a, a thermosensitive film 11b formed on the insulating substrate 11a, and an electrode 11c. The insulating substrate 11a has a thickness of 100 to 300 μm, and is made of alumina or the like having a size of about 1.6 × 0.8 mm in length and width, on which a metal such as SiC, manganese, cobalt, or nickel is formed. The heat-sensitive film 11b is formed by forming the oxide by a known thin film forming technique such as sputtering,
Two electrode surfaces 11c are formed on both sides of the heat sensitive film 11b. Of course, the heat-sensitive element 11 is not limited to the heat-sensitive element 11 as long as it is a flat-plate heat-sensitive element having flat electrodes, and even if it is a small heat-sensitive element having a lead wire, the lead wire is bonded by soldering or the like. It is obvious that it can be used as the heat-sensitive element of the temperature sensor of the present invention as long as it can be used, and the heat-sensitive element of FIG. 5 is not limited thereto. Of course, it is obvious that the electrode 11c and the heat-sensitive portion 5a may be electrically connected in the wire bonding step after the insulating substrate 11a of the heat-sensitive element 11 is mounted and fixed in the recesses 6a and 6b in a erected manner.

When electrical insulation is required on the exposed surface of the metal plate to which the heat-sensitive element protruding from the temperature sensor holder 8 is adhered, not only the contact surface of the temperature-detected body but also the necessary contact You may stick a thin film sheet on both sides. In this way, the heat-sensitive portion is sufficiently reinforced by sticking the thin film sheets on both sides. Of course, even if the thin film sheet is provided on one side, it is possible to secure sufficient mechanical strength. Further, the insulating property can be sufficiently maintained even if an insulating film made of resin or plating is formed, except for the portions where the electrodes of the heat sensitive element come into contact and the terminal portions 3a 'and 3b'.

As described above, the holding body 8, the temperature sensor 11 and the insulating thin film sheet 12 are incorporated in the lead frame A to form the temperature sensor, and the terminal portions 3a 'and 3b' of the lead frame A are strip-shaped. Separated from part 2 and
The extra-fine width portions 4a and 4b are separated from the holding body 8 and
The temperature sensor B shown in is formed. In this way, in the assembly process, by integrally molding the holding body 8 on the lead frame A by resin molding, not only the workability is significantly improved as compared with the conventional molding and processing for each individual product, but also the processing of the lead frame A is performed. The accuracy is improved, and the occurrence rate of defects due to variations in the position of each component can be reduced.

Of course, the holder 8 is not limited to the transfer molding described above, and it goes without saying that the holder may be incorporated in the lead frame A by using a resin-molded holder. Further, the heat sensitive element 11 is not limited to the thin film thermistor, and may be a semiconductor heat sensitive element as long as it is a heat sensitive element having a structure capable of electrical connection as described above. Further, it is obvious that the thermosensitive element 11 may be joined by a method other than soldering, such as face-down bonding, and the resin may cover the thermosensitive element 11. Further, in the case of a heat-sensitive element having a lead wire, only the lead wire may be connected to the heat-sensitive part and reinforced with a thin film sheet. If the lead wire has sufficient strength, it may be reinforced with a thin film sheet. It may not be necessary.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor of the above embodiment. The electrodes of the heat-sensitive element 11 are connected and fixed to the heat-sensitive portions 5a at the tips of the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b, respectively, and the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b and the heat-sensitive portion 5a are surrounded by the surrounding metal plate portion 4, The thin film sheet 12 is adhered to the side that comes into contact with the temperature sensing object, and the terminal portions 3 a ′ and 3 b ′ project from the holding body 8. The protruding portion 8a of the holding body 8 in which the screw hole 7 is formed is provided with the protruding portion 9 and the recessed portion 10 formed on the opposite side. The projecting portion 9 and the recessed portion 10 may be provided at mutually opposite positions, or either one of them may be formed. For example, when the temperature sensor B is attached to a heat fixing roller of a fixing device, the temperature sensor B is provided with a protrusion 9 or a recess 10 provided on the holder 8.
Is fitted into a hole or a protrusion not shown formed in the temperature sensor mounting portion of the device, fixed by screwing the device with the screw hole 7, and attached to the back surface of the metal plate part on which the heat sensitive element 11 is mounted. The attached thin film sheet 12 is attached so as to be in pressure contact with the surface of the heating roller which is the temperature detection target.

The narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b described above are not limited to the shapes shown in the figures, but may be wider shapes, but it is necessary to take measures so that the thermal response characteristics do not deteriorate. For example, in the case of a wide shape, the heat resistance is increased by providing a large number of holes in a mesh shape in the portions of the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b on which the heat sensitive element 11 is mounted close to the heat sensitive element 11. It is possible to prevent the deterioration of the thermal response characteristics. Needless to say, such a large number of holes may be provided in a mesh shape also in the surrounding metal plate portion 4 surrounding the narrow metal plate portions 3a and 3b on which the heat sensitive element 11 is mounted.

Next, another embodiment of the temperature sensor according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 is a plan view of a lead frame used in the temperature sensor of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor of the present invention.
A holder 8 for holding and fixing a portion on which the heat-sensitive element 11 is placed and fixed and a metal portion surrounding the heat-sensitive portion are shown. In the figure, the material of the lead frame C is formed by the same material and means as in FIG. This lead frame C
The strip-shaped portion 2 in which the sprocket holes 1 are formed at regular intervals, the terminal portions 13a and 14a for connecting the external lead wires in the direction perpendicular to the strip-shaped portion 2, and the extra-fine width portions 13e and 14e.
Extending from the terminal portion 13a to the narrow metal plate portion 13b.
And is connected to the strip-shaped portion 2 through the extremely narrow width portion 13e. Further, a U-shaped surrounding metal plate portion 14b is formed so as to surround the narrow metal plate portion 13b, is connected to the surrounding metal plate portion 14b from the terminal portion 14a for connecting the external lead wire, and passes through the extremely thin width portion 14e. It is connected to the strip 2. The terminal portions 13a and 14a are electrodes of the thermosensitive element 11, respectively.

Furthermore, the tip portion of the narrow metal plate portion 13b,
Connecting portions 13c and 14c are formed in the surrounding metal plate portion 14b facing the tip portion, respectively.
A pair of heat-sensitive parts 13d, 1 for mounting the heat-sensitive element 11 on 4c.
4d are in a row. Connecting portion 13 of narrow metal plate portion 13b
c is a portion formed by narrowing the leading end of the narrow metal plate portion from both sides, and an L-shaped cut portion is provided in the surrounding metal plate portion to form a thermosensitive connection with the connecting portion 14c. The portion 14d is formed. The holder 8 has a through hole or screw hole 7 and a projecting portion 9 and a concave portion 10 formed at the tip of the overhanging portion 8a. The holder 8 is formed from the narrow metal plate portion 13b to the strip portion 2. The extending terminal portion 13a and a part of the extra-fine width portion 13e, the terminal portion 14a extending from the surrounding metal plate portion 14b to the belt-like portion 2 and a portion of the extra-fine width portion 14e are formed by transfer molding or the like using a material such as insulating plastic. It is fixed and held by resin molding by means.

To explain the process of assembling the temperature sensor, the lead frame C is resin-molded to form the holder 8 and then the heat-sensitive parts 13d and 14 of the lead frame C are formed.
Electrodes of the heat-sensitive element 11 such as a thin film thermistor are electrically connected to the depressions 6a and 6b formed in d by a method such as half-etching, and fixed. This heat sensitive element 11
The electrode surface 11c is joined to the metal portions of the depressions 6a and 6b by a known method using a brazing material such as a solder paste to be electrically connected. After that, the heat-sensitive parts 13d, 1 of the heat-sensitive element 11 are
A thin film sheet 12 having abrasion resistance and heat resistance, such as a polyimide film, is attached to the back surface of the metal plate including at least the portion to be in contact with the object to be detected including 4d. Then, as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 4, the narrow metal plate portion 1 of the lead frame C is formed.
3b and the terminal portions 13a, 14a of the surrounding metal plate portion 14b and the strip portion 2 of the extra-fine width portions 13e, 14e are cut from the connecting portions, and the extra-fine width portions 13e, 14e are cut from the root of the holding body 8. , Individual temperature sensors D are formed.

In the temperature sensor of the above-described embodiment, a large number of metal plate portions, which are a pair of the surrounding metal plate portion 14b and the narrow metal plate portion 13b, are projected on the lead frame, and the holder is attached to these protruding metal plate portions. Even when the thermosensitive element is molded and mounted and fixed, the thermosensitive element may be fixed in the recess without any special jig or the like because it can be fixed in the recess. Finally, by cutting the strip-shaped portion of the lead frame, a large number of temperature sensors can be continuously manufactured, and workability is remarkably improved as compared with the conventional single-piece processing. This is the same in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2. Figure 4
Although the temperature sensor of FIG. 2 is different from the embodiment of FIG. 2 in shape of the lead frame, it is the same in that it is formed so as to surround the heat sensitive portion with the surrounding metal plate portion, and is not essentially different, and the temperature sensor of FIG. It is apparent that the same can be applied to the shape of the heat-sensitive element and the reinforcing method using the thin film sheet described in FIG. In addition, the recess 6 for mounting the heat sensitive element
The a and 6b are not always necessary, and can be accurately fixed by, for example, performing the heat-sensitive element using an automatic machine such as a face-down bonding device. This is the same in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2.

Next, the thermal response characteristics of the temperature sensor of the present invention will be described.
For comparison with the conventional one, the overshed shown in FIG.
Description will be made based on the measurement result of the pulse characteristics and the ripple. Destination
No, the overshoot characteristic is the overshoot T_oBut
The smaller the value, the shorter the time it takes to reach the set temperature.
Ripple T_rThe smaller is the control characteristic at the set temperature.
It may be judged that the material has good properties and excellent thermal response characteristics. Real
The thermal response characteristics of the temperature sensor of the example are measured by the heating roller.
The surface temperature was set to 180 ° C. and the measurement was performed. That conclusion
As a result, the temperature sensor of this embodiment has the overshoot T_oBut
4.0 ° C and ripple T_rWas 3.5 ° C. Destination
In Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 5-199929 proposed by the present applicant,
In the temperature sensor described, under the same measurement conditions,
Shoot T_oIs 7.0 ° C and ripple T _rIs 4.5
It was ℃. Clearly from this result, the temperature sensor of the present invention is
Has excellent thermal response characteristics compared to conventional temperature sensors.
It was proved that it did.

[0034]

As described above, the temperature sensor of the present invention is
The heat-sensitive part on which the heat-sensitive element is mounted is connected to the surrounding metal plate part or narrow metal plate part, which is the supporter, by a narrow connecting part, and the narrow connecting part provides thermal conductivity. By blocking the heat, the heat resistance is increased, and the heat radiation of the heat sensitive element from the temperature sensing object can be reduced. Therefore, there is an advantage that the thermal response characteristic can be greatly improved over the conventional one. Further, the heat-sensitive part on which the heat-sensitive element is mounted is connected to the narrow metal plate part or the surrounding metal plate part through the connecting part of the metal plate having an extremely narrow width, which causes a decrease in mechanical strength. By providing the surrounding metal plate portion so as to surround the portion, it is possible to reinforce the mechanical strength and prevent the decrease in the elastic force for pressing the temperature sensor to the heating roller. It is possible to bring the heat-sensitive part into contact with the temperature detecting body at a constant pressure, and there is an advantage that the temperature detection accuracy can be improved.

Further, in the temperature sensor of the present invention, the narrow metal plate portion or the connecting portion for supporting the heat sensitive element is made thin so that the holder for the temperature sensor is twisted due to the deviation of the mounting angle when it is mounted on the apparatus body. It is possible to reduce the abnormal force generated at the joint between the electrode surface of the heat-sensitive element and the metal plate, and it is possible to eliminate peeling or disconnection from the heat-sensitive portion of the heat-sensitive element. is there. In addition, since the assembling work of the temperature sensor of the present invention can be performed in the state of the lead frame and the unnecessary portion can be cut and separated at the end, the assembling process can be easily automated. In addition, if you carry the temperature sensor on the lead frame, you can prevent damage due to contact, etc., as compared with the case where the temperature sensors in separate states are carried. It is also possible to excise and use. Furthermore, by providing a recess in the heat-sensitive part, even when incorporating it in an automatic machine, it is possible to recognize its shape and attach it with extremely high precision, and since the recess is formed by half etching,
The metal surface becomes rough, and the adhesion to the electrodes of the heat-sensitive element becomes strong, which is extremely effective.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a lead frame used in an embodiment of a temperature sensor according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a temperature sensor according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a lead frame used in another embodiment of the temperature sensor according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the temperature sensor according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a heat sensitive element.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a thermal response characteristic of the temperature sensor according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of a conventional temperature sensor.

[Explanation of symbols]

A, C lead frame B, D temperature sensor 1 Sprocket hole 2 strips 3a, 3b narrow metal plate part 3a ', 3b' terminals 4 Surrounding metal plate 4a, 4b Extra narrow width part 5a Heat sensitive part 6a, 6b depression 7 Through holes and screw holes 8 holder 8a Overhang part 9 protrusion 10 recess 11 Thermal element 12 Thin film sheet 13a, 14a Terminal part 13b narrow metal plate 13c, 14c connection part 13d, 14d heat sensitive part 13e, 14e Extra-fine width part 14b Surrounding metal plate part

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (56) References JP-A-63-205530 (JP, A) JP-A-56-73325 (JP, A) Actually open Hei 5-19929 (JP, U) Actually open 61- 114339 (JP, U) Actual development 4-81023 (JP, U) (58) Fields investigated (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G01K 1/14 G01K 7/22 G01K 13/08

Claims (8)

(57) [Claims] 1. A first and second heat-sensitive portion for electrically connecting and fixing the electrodes of the heat-sensitive element, respectively, and a connecting portion made of a narrow metal plate portion for supporting the first and second heat-sensitive portions. A surrounding metal plate portion that substantially surrounds the first and second heat sensitive portions, a terminal portion connected to the connecting portion or a terminal portion connected to one of the connecting portions, and a terminal portion connected to the surrounding metal plate portion. A temperature sensor, comprising: a holder for projecting the terminal portion and fixing and holding the surrounding metal plate portion and the metal plate portion for supporting the heat-sensitive element mounted on the heat-sensitive portion. 2. A narrow metal plate portion extending from each of the pair of terminal portions, a surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and electrodes at the tips of the pair of narrow metal plate portions, respectively. A thermosensitive element that is connected and mounted and fixed, a holding body in which the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion are fixedly held to project the terminal portion, and the thermosensitive element is mounted. A temperature sensor, comprising: a narrow metal plate portion and a thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the surrounding metal plate portion. 3. A narrow metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion connecting a first external lead wire, and a narrow metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion connecting a second external lead wire. Enclosing surrounding metal plate part, and first and second heat sensitive parts formed on the surrounding metal plate part facing the tip part of the narrow width metal plate part and the leading end part through narrow connecting parts, respectively. A heat-sensitive element in which respective electrodes are connected to the first and second heat-sensitive parts and mounted and fixed, and the narrow metal plate part and the surrounding metal plate part are fixedly held to project the terminal part. And a thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the metal plate portion including the first and second heat sensitive portions to which the electrodes of the heat sensitive element are connected, respectively. Sensor. 4. A narrow metal plate portion extending from each of the pair of terminal portions, a surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and formed at the tips of the pair of narrow metal plate portions, respectively. And a thermosensitive element that is mounted and fixed by connecting electrodes to the depressions respectively, and a holder that holds and holds the narrow metal plate portion and the surrounding metal plate portion, and projects the terminal portion. A temperature sensor, comprising: the narrow metal plate portion on which the heat-sensitive element is mounted; and a thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the surrounding metal plate portion. 5. A narrow metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion connecting a first external lead wire, and a narrow metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion connecting a second external lead wire. Enclosing surrounding metal plate part, and first and second heat sensitive parts formed on the surrounding metal plate part facing the tip part of the narrow width metal plate part and the leading end part through narrow connecting parts, respectively. A recess formed in each of the first and second heat sensitive parts, a heat sensitive element on which an electrode is connected to each of the recesses and mounted and fixed, the narrow metal plate part and the surrounding metal plate part. A holder for fixing and holding the terminal part to project, and a thin film sheet provided on at least one surface of the metal plate part including first and second heat-sensitive parts to which electrodes of the heat-sensitive element are connected, respectively. A temperature sensor comprising: 6. A pair of narrow metal plate portions extending from a terminal portion for connecting an external lead wire, a surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and the pair of narrow metal portions. A recess for mounting a heat sensitive element on each tip of the plate portion, a heat sensitive element mounted and fixed in a erected manner in the recess and electrically connected, a part of the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and A holder for fixing and holding a part of the surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the pair of narrow metal plate portions, and at least a surface of the metal plate portion including the heat-sensitive portion of the heat-sensitive element that is in contact with the temperature-detected body. A temperature sensor comprising: a thin film sheet. 7. A narrow metal plate portion extending from a terminal portion for connecting one of the external lead wires, and a terminal portion formed so as to surround the metal plate portion and connecting the other external lead wire. An existing surrounding metal plate part, and a pair of heat sensitive parts on which a heat sensitive element extending through a connecting part to the surrounding metal plate part corresponding to the tip part and the tip part of the narrow metal plate part is mounted, A recess for mounting a heat-sensitive element on the heat-sensitive portion, a heat-sensitive element mounted and fixed electrically in the recess in a erected manner, a part of the narrow metal plate portion, and the narrow metal A holder for fixing and holding a part of the surrounding metal plate portion surrounding the plate portion and projecting the terminal portion, and the connecting portion is formed in an extension direction of the both metal plate portions, and includes a heat-sensitive portion of the heat-sensitive element. A thin film sheet provided on at least a surface of the metal plate portion that comes into contact with the temperature sensing object; Temperature sensor according to claim Rukoto. 8. The holding body is formed with a temperature sensor positioning hole and a protrusion, and at least one of a temperature sensor positioning protrusion and a recess is formed at the tip of the protrusion. Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
The temperature sensor according to 6 or 7.