JP6782104B2 - Branch cable - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a branch cable used for low voltage wiring in condominiums, buildings, apartment houses, factories, tunnels, and the like.

Conventionally, electric power cables that are wired (laid) to condominiums, buildings, etc. have been subjected to electrical connection between the main line and branch lines and insulation treatment at the site. Therefore, there is a problem that time is taken at the site and the construction period becomes long. In order to solve this problem, it has become common to connect and insulate the main line and the branch line in advance in the company's factory for the purpose of reducing processing on site. That is, for example, the branch cable disclosed in Patent Document 1 below has become common.

In FIG. 10, the branch cable 1 (disclosed in the background technology column) of Patent Document 1 below includes a trunk line 2, a branch line 3, and a lifting metal fitting 4. The main line 2 and the branch line 3 are formed with an electrical connection portion 5 thereof, and the branch line 3 is branched from the main line 2. Reference mark 6 indicates an exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side, which is formed by removing (peeling) the coating in the middle of the trunk line 2. Further, reference numeral 7 indicates a branch line side conductor exposed portion formed by removing the coating on the terminal of the branch line 3. The connecting portion 5 is formed by crimping the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 6 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 7 with the compression connector 8 to bring them into a connected state.

Reference numeral 9 is an insulation processing unit, and the insulation processing unit 9 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 5. The insulation treatment section 9 is formed into a bulging shape as shown by molding by molding using vinyl chloride resin, polyethylene or the like. It should be noted that the bulging shape is due to the crimping portion by the compression connector 8 under this.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-354758

In the branch cable 1 of the above-mentioned prior art, since the connection portion 5 is formed by using the compression connector 8, the size of the insulation processing portion 9 becomes large. Therefore, when the cable is wired, it penetrates through an apartment or a building (not shown). There is a problem that it becomes difficult to pass through the hole, and as a result, the workability deteriorates.

In addition, if the size of the insulation processing unit 9 is large, it is necessary to use a large injection molding machine for insulation processing in the company's factory, which increases the time required for molding, resulting in poor productivity. It has the problem of being stowed away.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a branch cable capable of improving workability and productivity.

The branch cable of the present invention according to claim 1, which has been made to solve the above problems, includes a trunk wire having a conductor formed by twisting strands and a branch wire, and has an insulation processing portion. The trunk line and the branch line each have a trunk line side conductor exposed portion and a branch line side conductor exposed portion formed by removing the coating at a predetermined position to expose the conductor, and the insulation processing portion is In a branch cable that covers the electrical connection portion of the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion each constitute the conductor. The diameters of the strands are different, and the connecting portion is formed by welding, and in forming the connecting portion by the welding , a conductive pipe member is previously assembled to the conductor in the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side. It is characterized by that.

According to the present invention having such characteristics, a structure that does not use a compression connector when electrically connecting the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side of the trunk line and the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side of the branch line to form a connecting portion. Is adopted. Specifically, a structure in which the connecting portion is formed by welding is adopted. Since the present invention does not use a compression connector, the connection portion can be made small. Therefore, even if the connection portion is formed and then the insulation treatment is applied, the size does not increase. If the size is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for the insulation treatment. In addition, according to the present invention, since welding is used to connect the exposed conductor on the trunk line side and the exposed conductor on the branch line side, the connecting portion can be formed easily and speedily.
Further, according to the present invention, a structure that does not use a compression connector is adopted in forming a connecting portion by electrically connecting the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side of the trunk line and the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side of the branch line. .. The connecting portion is formed after assembling a conductive pipe member to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side, instead of connecting the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side to the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side as it is. As a result, the connection portion can be formed smaller than when a compression connector is used. Specifically, in the case of a compression connector, the size is naturally large because the compression connector exists all around the overlapping portion of the main conductor side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion. turn into. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the connection is made via the pipe member assembled to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side, only a part of the size needs to be increased when viewed in the circumferential direction of the overlapped portion. Therefore, even if the connection portion is formed and then the insulation treatment is applied, the size does not increase. If the size is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for the insulation treatment. In addition, according to the present invention, the pipe member is preliminarily assembled to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side, and the pipe member is superposed on the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side and joined (welded). For example, if ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding) or resistance welding is adopted for welding, a connecting portion can be formed easily and speedily. Further, according to the present invention, since the pipe member is used, it is possible not only to prevent the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side from being scattered, but also to stabilize the connection with the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side. Further, even if the wire diameters of the exposed conductor on the trunk line side and the exposed conductor on the branch line side are different, a sufficient joint area can be secured by the pipe member. That is, the joint strength can be secured as necessary and sufficient.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the branch cable according to the first aspect, when the connecting portion is formed by the welding, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion or the trunk line are formed in advance. It is characterized in that either the side conductor exposed portion or the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed.

According to the present invention having such a feature, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and / or the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed before overlapping the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion. Therefore, it is possible to make a connecting portion such as a structure that is easy to weld, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joint area.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the branch cable according to the first or second aspect , the pipe member is assembled to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side, and then forming is performed to form the processed portion on the pipe member. It is characterized by forming.

According to the present invention having such a feature, since the pipe member is formed by forming before superimposing the pipe member on the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side, a processed portion is formed on the pipe member. Depending on the processed portion, it is possible to make a connecting portion such as a structure that is easy to join, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joining area. Further, by forming a processed portion, it is possible to make a connecting portion having a small structure.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the branch cable according to the third aspect , the processed portion is a conductor contact portion which is a portion where the internal space of the pipe member is narrowed with respect to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side. It is characterized in that it is formed in a state of having a fin portion that becomes a handleable portion on the side portion of the conductor contact portion.

According to the present invention having such a feature, the conductor contact portion and the fin portion are formed on the pipe member by performing the forming process on the pipe member. The conductor contact portion and the fin portion are formed as a better portion of the processed portion. The conductor contact portion is formed in a portion where the pipe member shrinks and the internal space narrows in the process of forming the fin portion. The conductor contact portion of such a portion can be brought into close contact with the conductor exposed portion on the branch line side by eliminating (or reducing) a gap with respect to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side. As a result, for example, it is possible to structurally facilitate the transmission of vibration and pressing force of ultrasonic bonding. On the other hand, since the fin portion is formed in a portion that can be handled on the side portion of the conductor contact portion, workability can be improved when the fin portion is formed along the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side.

The present invention according to claim 5 is the branch cable according to claim 1 or 2, in which the pipe member assembled to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side is formed along the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side and then formed. Is applied to form a processed portion on the pipe member.

According to the present invention having such a feature, since the pipe member is formed by superimposing the pipe member on the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side, the pipe member is formed with the processed portion. Depending on the processed portion, it is possible to make a connecting portion such as a structure that is easy to join, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joining area. Further, it is possible to make a small connecting portion by forming a processed portion.

The present invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in the branch cable according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, the welding is ultrasonic bonding or resistance welding.

According to the present invention having such characteristics, since welding by ultrasonic bonding or resistance welding is adopted, a connecting portion can be formed easily and speedily.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, since the branch cable has a structure in which an electrical connection portion of the main conductor side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed by welding, as compared with the conventional example. It has the effect of improving workability and productivity.
Further, according to the present invention, an electrical connection portion of the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed by welding, and in forming this connection portion, the conductor is conductive to the branch line side conductor exposed portion in advance. Since it is a branch cable having a structure for assembling a sex pipe member, it has an effect that workability and productivity can be improved as compared with the conventional example.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the main line side conductor exposed portion and / or the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed, a structure that is easy to join, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a joining area can be obtained. It has the effect of being able to be a connecting part such as a structure to be raised.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the processed portion is formed on the pipe member by performing forming processing, a connection such as a structure that is easy to join, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joining area, etc. It has the effect of being able to be part. Further, by forming the processed portion, it is possible to make a connecting portion of a structure for miniaturization.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the processed portion is formed so as to have the conductor contact portion and the fin portion, the conductor contact portion is to be adhered to the conductor exposed portion on the branch line side. As a result, for example, it is possible to structurally facilitate the transmission of vibration and pressing force of ultrasonic bonding. In addition, the fin portion has the effect of improving workability.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the processed portion is formed on the pipe member by performing forming processing, a connection such as a structure that is easy to join, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joining area, etc. It has the effect of being able to be part. Further, by forming the processed portion, it is possible to make a connecting portion of a structure for miniaturization.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is easy because ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding) or resistance welding is used for electrical connection between the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side and the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side. Moreover, it has the effect of being able to form a connecting portion speedily. That is, it has the effect of improving productivity.

It is a figure which shows the branch cable of this invention, (a) is a schematic view of a branch cable, (b) is an enlarged view of the main part of (a) (Example 1). It is a figure which shows the connection part of FIG. 1, (a) is an enlarged view before welding, (b) is an enlarged view after welding (Example 1). It is a figure which shows the branch cable which becomes another example of this invention, (a) is a schematic view of a branch cable, (b) is an enlarged view of the main part of (a) (Example 2). It is a figure which shows the connection part of FIG. 3, (a) is an enlarged view before ultrasonic bonding, (b) is an enlarged view after ultrasonic bonding (Example 2). It is a figure which shows the other branch cable of this invention, (a) is a schematic view of a branch cable, (b) is an enlarged view of the main part of (a) (Example 3). It is a figure which shows the connection part of FIG. 5, (a) is an enlarged view before welding, (b) is an enlarged view after welding (Example 3). It is a figure which shows the branch cable which becomes another example of this invention, (a) is a schematic view of a branch cable, (b) is an enlarged view of the main part of (a) (Example 4). 7A and 7B are views showing a machined portion, FIG. 7A is an enlarged view showing a state before machining, FIG. 7B is an enlarged view showing a state after machining, and FIG. 7C is an enlarged view showing a machined portion as a comparative example. It is a figure (Example 4). It is a figure which shows the connection part of FIG. 7, (a) is an enlarged view before ultrasonic bonding, (b) is an enlarged view after ultrasonic bonding (Example 4). It is a figure which shows the branch cable of the conventional example, (a) is a schematic view of a branch cable, (b) is an enlarged view (including a cross section) of a main part of (a).

The branch cable includes a trunk line and a branch line branched from the trunk line. The branch cable is provided with an insulation processing portion at a portion where the branch line is branched from the trunk line, that is, a connection portion. For the trunk line and the branch line, the coating at a predetermined position is removed to form the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion, respectively. The electrical connection portion of the main conductor side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion is formed by welding such as ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding) or resistance welding. In forming such a connecting portion, a copper pipe member or terminal having conductivity may be assembled in advance to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side.

Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a branch cable of the present invention, (a) is a schematic view of the branch cable, and (b) is an enlarged view of a main part of (a). 2A and 2B are views showing the connection portion of FIG. 1, where FIG. 2A is an enlarged view before welding and FIG. 2B is an enlarged view after welding.

<About the configuration of the branch cable 11>
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 11 indicates a branch cable of the present invention. The branch cable 11 is used for low-voltage wiring in condominiums, buildings (hereinafter abbreviated as buildings), apartment houses, factories, tunnels, and the like. The branch cable 11 is sometimes called a branch cable. Such a branch cable 11 includes a trunk line 12, a plurality of branch lines 13, and a lifting metal fitting 14. Reference mark 15 in the branch cable 11 indicates an insulation processing portion that covers the connection portion 16 described later.

<For example, laying of branch cable 11 in a building>
Although not particularly shown, hanging hooks are provided on the ceiling of the top floor of the building. A pulley is attached to this hook, and a wire for towing is hung on the pulley. One end of the wire is passed through a through hole formed in a partition wall on each floor of the building, and then the wire is lowered to the lowest floor to which the branch cable 11 is carried. One end of the wire lowered to the bottom floor is attached to the lifting metal fitting 14 of the branch cable 11.

When the other end of the wire is pulled, the branch cable 11 is lifted and passes through the through holes on each floor. At this time, the branch cable 11 smoothly passes through the through hole according to the feature of the present invention. When the branch cable 11 is lifted so that the portion of the lifting bracket 14 comes to the position of the hook, and then the lifting bracket 14 is attached to the hook, the branch cable 11 is suspended from the ceiling.

By doing so, the branch line 13 is located at a predetermined position on each floor where electrical wiring is required, and if a terminal of the branch line 13 is connected to various electric devices (general outlet, lighting equipment, distribution board, etc.), the branch line 13 can be branched. The laying of the cable 11 is completed. In the branch cable 11 suspended from the ceiling, the trunk line 12 is fixed by an intermediate support on each floor.

<About the electrical connection portion 16 of the main line 12 and the branch line 13>
In FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, a 600 V cross-linked polyethylene insulated vinyl sheath cable is adopted as the trunk line 12 and the branch line 13. The main line 12 and the branch line 13 are formed with these electrical connection portions 16. The branch line 13 is branched from the trunk line 12 via the connecting portion 16. The connecting portion 16 is formed by electrically connecting the main line side conductor exposed portion 17 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 18. In the present invention, resistance welding is used to form the connecting portion 16 (the connection may be made by welding technology, and spot welding and the like are also included).

<About the exposed conductor 17 on the trunk line>
In FIG. 2, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 17 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 20 in the middle of the trunk line 12 with an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 20, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the trunk wire 12 (exposed portion 17 of the conductor on the trunk wire side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands. Since resistance welding is used to form the connecting portion 16 as described above, the conductor exposed portion 17 on the trunk line side is used to provide a structure that is easy to weld, a structure that stabilizes the connection state, and a structure that increases the joint area. May be subjected to forming processing in advance (the same applies to Examples 2 and 3 described later with respect to forming processing).

<About the exposed conductor 18 on the branch line side>
In FIG. 2, the branch line side conductor exposed portion 18 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 21 at the end of the branch line 13 with an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 21, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the branch wire 13 (exposed portion 18 of the conductor on the branch wire side) is formed by twisting a wire made of annealed copper. Since resistance welding is used to form the connecting portion 16 as described above, the forming process may be performed in advance in the same manner as the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 17.

<About the formation of the connection part 16>
The connecting portion 16 is formed by superimposing the branch line side conductor exposed portion 18 on the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 17, sandwiching them with welding electrodes (not shown), and passing an electric current while applying pressure. Due to resistance welding, heat is generated in the exposed portion 18 of the conductor on the branch line side and the exposed portion 17 of the conductor on the trunk line side, and since pressure is applied in this state, the members are welded to each other (reference mark 19 indicates a welded portion). ), As a result, the connecting portion 16 is formed.

Since the connection portion 16 is an electrical connection portion, insulation is required. The branch cable 11 is insulated by the insulation processing unit 15 (see FIG. 1).

<About insulation processing unit 15>
In FIG. 1, the insulation processing portion 15 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 16. Specifically, it is formed into a shape as shown by molding by molding using vinyl chloride resin, polyethylene or the like. The insulation processing portion 15 is formed so as to cover the coatings 20 and 21 of the trunk line 12 and the branch line 13. Since the structure of the connecting portion 16 is different from that of the conventional example, the insulation processing portion 15 is formed in a slimmer shape than the conventional example (even if the shape is slim, sufficient insulation performance is ensured. ).

<About the effect of branch cable 11>
As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the branch cable 11 of the present invention has a feature in forming the connecting portion 16. Specifically, when the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 17 of the trunk line 12 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 18 of the branch line 13 are electrically connected to form the connection portion 16, a compression connector as in a conventional example is formed. It is characterized by the adoption of a structure that does not use 8 (see FIG. 10). The connecting portion 16 is formed by resistance welding. As a result, the connection portion 16 can be made smaller than when the compression connector 8 is used.

More specifically, when the compression connector 8 (see FIG. 10) as in the conventional example is used, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 6 (see FIG. 10) and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 7 (see FIG. 10). ), Since the compression connector 8 is present all around the overlapped portion, the size is naturally increased. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the welding (resistance welding) is performed between the exposed portion 18 of the conductor on the branch line side and the exposed portion 17 of the conductor on the trunk line side, the entire circumference of the overlapped portion does not increase in size. On the contrary, the size is reduced because the welding is performed with pressure. Therefore, even if the insulation processing portion 15 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 16, the size does not increase. As long as the size of the insulation processing unit 15 is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for this formation. Further, if the insulation processing portion 15 is not enlarged, the amount of the resin material used can be reduced as compared with the conventional example. Further, if the insulation processing portion 15 is not enlarged, the branch cable 11 can be smoothly passed through a through hole (not shown) when laying the branch cable 11. Therefore, it is possible to improve productivity and workability and reduce costs. In addition, since welding (resistance welding) is used to form the connecting portion 16, the connecting portion 16 can be formed easily and speedily. Therefore, productivity can be improved.

Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a branch cable which is another example of the present invention, (a) is a schematic view of the branch cable, and (b) is an enlarged view of a main part of (a). 4A and 4B are views showing the connection portion of FIG. 3, where FIG. 4A is an enlarged view before ultrasonic bonding and FIG. 4B is an enlarged view after ultrasonic bonding.

<About the configuration of the branch cable 31>
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 31 indicates a branch cable of the present invention. Similar to the first embodiment, the branch cable 31 is used for low-voltage wiring in condominiums, buildings (hereinafter abbreviated as buildings), apartment houses, factories, tunnels, and the like. The branch cable 31 is sometimes called a branch cable. Such a branch cable 31 includes a trunk line 32, a plurality of branch lines 33, and a lifting metal fitting 34. Reference mark 35 in the branch cable 31 indicates an insulation processing portion that covers the connection portion 36 described later.

<For example, laying of branch cable 31 in a building>
The laying of the branch cable 31 is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted here.

<About the electrical connection 36 of the main line 32 and the branch line 33>
In FIGS. 3 and 4, as the trunk line 32 and the branch line 33, a 600 V cross-linked polyethylene insulated vinyl sheath cable is adopted as in the first embodiment. The main line 32 and the branch line 33 are formed with these electrical connection portions 36. The branch line 33 is branched from the trunk line 32 via the connecting portion 36. The connecting portion 36 is formed by electrically connecting the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 37 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38. In forming the connecting portion 36, the pipe member 39 is used in the present invention of the second embodiment.

<About the exposed conductor 37 on the trunk line side>
In FIG. 4, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 37 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 40 in the middle of the trunk line 32 with an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 40, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the trunk line 32 (exposed portion 37 of the conductor on the trunk line side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands. It should be noted that the trunk wire 32 has a larger conductor size than the branch wire 33, and therefore the wire diameter is also larger (in the figure, it is exaggerated to show that the wire diameters are different).

<About the exposed conductor 38 on the branch line side>
In FIG. 4, the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 41 at the end of the branch line 33 with an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 41, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the branch wire 33 (exposed portion 38 of the conductor on the branch wire side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands (the strands are thinner than the strands of the trunk wire 32).

<About pipe member 39>
In FIG. 4, the pipe member 39 is made of copper and is formed to have a predetermined length and a predetermined diameter (preferably formed of a material that matches the wire material of the trunk line 32 and the branch line 33). The pipe member 39 is used to electrically connect the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 37 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38. Specifically, it is assembled in advance on the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 and used for electrical connection with the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 37. As will be understood from the following description, the pipe member 39 is an indispensable member for the present invention, and is also a member capable of making good electrical connection. The assembly of the pipe member 39 means inserting the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 into the through hole of the pipe member 39.

After the pipe member 39 is assembled to the exposed portion 38 of the conductor on the branch line side, a forming process is performed to form the processed portion 42. Alternatively, after being assembled to the conductor exposed portion 38 on the branch line side and superposed on the exposed conductor portion 37 on the trunk line side (after being aligned), forming processing is performed to form the processed portion 42. The forming process referred to here refers to a structure that facilitates ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding), a structure that stabilizes the electrical connection state, and the area (bonding area) of the welded portion 43 generated by ultrasonic bonding. The processing is not particularly limited as long as it is effective for realizing a structure for raising, a structure for making the connecting portion 36 smaller, and the like. For example, press working such as pressurization is applicable, and the processed portion 42 is formed in a crushed shape portion.

<About the formation of the connection part 36>
In the connecting portion 36, an ultrasonic bonding horn (not shown) is provided so that the pipe member 39 assembled to the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 is superposed on the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 37 and then pressed from above the pipe member 39. It is formed by applying ultrasonic bonding. When ultrasonic bonding is performed, energy due to vibration is concentrated on the superposed portion, and as a result, members are welded to each other to form a connecting portion 36.

Since the connection portion 36 is an electrical connection portion, insulation is required. The branch cable 31 is insulated by the insulation processing section 35 (see FIG. 3).

<About insulation processing unit 35>
In FIG. 3, the insulation processing portion 35 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 36. Specifically, as in Example 1, it is formed into a shape as shown by molding by molding using a vinyl chloride resin, polyethylene or the like. The insulation processing portion 35 is formed so as to cover the coatings 40 and 41 of the trunk line 32 and the branch line 33. Since the structure of the connecting portion 36 is different from that of the conventional example, the insulation processing portion 35 is formed in a slimmer shape than the conventional example (even if the shape is slim, sufficient insulation performance is ensured. ).

<About the effect of branch cable 31>
As described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the branch cable 31 of the present invention has a feature in forming the connecting portion 36. Specifically, when the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 37 of the trunk line 32 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 of the branch line 33 are electrically connected to form the connection portion 36, a compression connector as in a conventional example is used. It is characterized by the adoption of a structure that does not use 8 (see FIG. 10). The connection portion 36 is formed after assembling the conductive pipe member 39 to the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38, instead of connecting the branch line side conductor exposed portion 38 to the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 37 as it is. As a result, the connection portion 36 can be made smaller than when the compression connector 8 is used.

More specifically, when the compression connector 8 (see FIG. 10) as in the conventional example is used, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 6 (see FIG. 10) and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 7 (see FIG. 10). ), Since the compression connector 8 is present all around the overlapped portion, the size is naturally increased. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the connection is made via the pipe member 39 assembled to the exposed portion 38 of the conductor on the branch line side, only a part of the size needs to be increased when viewed in the circumferential direction of the overlapped portion. Therefore, even if the insulation processing portion 35 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 36, the size does not increase. As long as the size of the insulation processing section 35 is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for this formation. Further, if the insulation processing portion 35 is not enlarged, the amount of the resin material used can be reduced as compared with the conventional example. Further, if the insulation processing portion 35 is not enlarged, the branch cable 31 can be smoothly passed through a through hole (not shown) when laying the branch cable 31. Therefore, it is possible to improve productivity and workability and reduce costs.

In addition, since ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding) is adopted for forming the connecting portion 36, the connecting portion 36 can be formed easily and speedily. Therefore, productivity can be improved. Further, since the pipe member 39 is used for forming the connecting portion 36, it is possible to prevent the exposed portion 38 of the conductor on the branch line side from being separated, or to prevent a thin wire from being cut by the vibration of ultrasonic welding, for example. Can be done. Further, since the pipe member 39 is interposed even if the wire diameters are different, it is possible to stabilize the connection with the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 37 and secure a sufficient joint area. Therefore, the reliability of the electrical connection can be improved.

Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. 5A and 5B are views showing still another branch cable of the present invention, FIG. 5A is a schematic view of the branch cable, and FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a main part of FIG. 5A. 6A and 6B are views showing the connection portion of FIG. 5, where FIG. 6A is an enlarged view before welding and FIG. 6B is an enlarged view after welding. The same components as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

<About the configuration of the branch cable 51>
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 51 indicates a branch cable of the present invention. The branch cable 31 is used for low-voltage wiring in condominiums, buildings (hereinafter abbreviated as buildings), apartment houses, factories, tunnels, etc., as in Examples 1 and 2. The branch cable 51 is sometimes called a branch cable. Such a branch cable 51 includes a trunk line 52, a plurality of branch lines 53, and a lifting metal fitting 54. Reference mark 55 in the branch cable 51 indicates an insulation processing portion that covers the connection portion 56 described later.

<For example, laying a branch cable 51 in a building>
The laying of the branch cable 51 is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted here.

<About the electrical connection portion 56 of the main line 52 and the branch line 53>
In FIGS. 5 and 6, as the trunk line 52 and the branch line 53, a 600 V cross-linked polyethylene insulated vinyl sheath cable is adopted as in Examples 1 and 2. The main line 52 and the branch line 53 are formed with these electrical connection portions 56. The branch line 53 is branched from the trunk line 52 via the connecting portion 56. The connecting portion 56 is formed by electrically connecting the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 57 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58. In forming the connecting portion 56, the terminal 59 is used in the present invention of the third embodiment.

<About the conductor exposed portion 57 on the trunk line side>
In FIG. 6, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 57 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 60 in the middle of the trunk line 52 at an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 60, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the trunk line 52 (exposed portion 57 of the conductor on the trunk line side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands. It should be noted that the main wire 52 has a larger conductor size than the branch wire 53, and therefore the wire diameter is also larger (in the figure, it is exaggerated to show that the wire diameters are different).

<About the exposed conductor 58 on the branch line side>
In FIG. 6, the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 61 at the end of the branch line 53 with an appropriate length (the peeling length is shorter than that of the second embodiment). Specifically, it is sufficient if the length is such that it can be connected to the terminal 59 described later). Regarding the removal of the coating 61, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the branch wire 53 (exposed portion 58 of the conductor on the branch wire side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands (the strands are thinner than the strands of the trunk wire 52).

<About terminal 59>
In FIG. 6, the terminal 59 is a copper member (preferably formed of a material that matches the wire material of the trunk wire 52 and the branch wire 53), and the trunk wire side conductor exposed portion 57 and the branch wire side conductor exposed portion. It is used to electrically connect the 58. Specifically, it is assembled in advance on the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58 and used for electrical connection with the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 57. As will be understood from the following description, the terminal 59 is an indispensable member of the present invention, and is also a member capable of making good electrical connection. The terminal 59 connects the crimping portion 62 that connects the branch wire side conductor exposed portion 58 by crimping, the conductor welding portion 63 that is welded to the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 57, and these crimping portions 62 and the conductor welding portion 63. It has a connecting portion 64 to be formed.

The crimping portion 62 is a so-called wire barrel, and by crimping this portion, the terminal 59 and the branch wire side conductor exposed portion 58 are electrically connected. The conductor welded portion 63 is formed as a portion welded to the conductor exposed portion 57 on the trunk line side as described above. The conductor welded portion 63 has a structure that facilitates resistance welding, spot welding, or ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding), a structure that stabilizes an electrical connection state, and an area (bonding area) of a welded portion 65 generated by welding. ) Is increased, and the shape is not particularly limited as long as it has a shape effective for realizing a structure in which the connecting portion 56 is miniaturized.

<About the formation of the connection part 56>
In the connection portion 56, the conductor connection portion 63 of the terminal 59 assembled to the conductor exposure portion 58 on the branch line side is overlapped with the conductor connection portion 57 on the trunk line side, and these are sandwiched between welding electrodes (not shown) to pass a current while pressurizing. Is formed by. Due to resistance welding, heat is generated between the conductor connecting portion 63 and the conductor exposed portion 57 on the trunk line side, and since pressure is applied in this state, the members are welded (welded portion 65), and as a result, the connecting portion is formed. 56 is formed.

Since the connection portion 56 is an electrical connection portion, insulation is required. The branch cable 51 is insulated by the insulation processing section 55 (see FIG. 5).

<About insulation processing unit 55>
In FIG. 5, the insulation processing portion 55 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 56. Specifically, as in Examples 1 and 2, the shape is formed as shown in the figure by molding using vinyl chloride resin, polyethylene or the like. The insulation processing portion 55 is formed so as to cover the coatings 60 and 61 of the trunk line 52 and the branch line 53. Since the structure of the connecting portion 56 is different from that of the conventional example, the insulation processing portion 55 is formed in a slimmer shape than the conventional example (even if the shape is slim, sufficient insulation performance is ensured. ).

<Effect of branch cable 51>
As described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the branch cable 51 of the present invention has a feature in forming the connecting portion 56. Specifically, when the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 57 of the trunk line 52 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58 of the branch line 53 are electrically connected to form the connection portion 56, a compression connector as in a conventional example is used. It is characterized by the adoption of a structure that does not use 8 (see FIG. 10). The connection portion 56 is formed after assembling the conductive terminal 59 to the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58, instead of connecting the branch line side conductor exposed portion 58 to the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 57 as it is. As a result, the connection portion 56 can be made smaller than when the compression connector 8 is used.

More specifically, when the compression connector 8 (see FIG. 10) as in the conventional example is used, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 6 (see FIG. 10) and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 7 (see FIG. 10). ), Since the compression connector 8 is present all around the overlapped portion, the size is naturally increased. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the connection is made via the terminal 59 assembled to the exposed portion 58 of the conductor on the branch line side, only a part of the size needs to be increased when viewed in the circumferential direction of the overlapped portion. Therefore, even if the insulation processing portion 55 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 56, the size does not increase. As long as the size of the insulation processing section 55 is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for this formation. Further, if the insulation processing portion 55 is not enlarged, the amount of the resin material used can be reduced as compared with the conventional example. Further, if the insulation processing portion 55 is not enlarged, the branch cable 51 can be smoothly passed through a through hole (not shown) when laying the branch cable 51. Therefore, it is possible to improve productivity and workability and reduce costs.

In addition, since welding (resistance welding) is used to form the connecting portion 56, the connecting portion 56 can be formed easily and speedily. Therefore, productivity can be improved. Further, since the terminal 59 is used for forming the connecting portion 56, it is possible to prevent the exposed portion 58 of the conductor on the branch wire side from being separated, or to prevent a thin wire from being cut by the vibration of ultrasonic welding, for example. it can. Further, even if the wire diameters are different, the terminal 59 is interposed, so that the connection with the conductor exposed portion 57 on the trunk line side can be stabilized and a sufficient joint area can be secured. Therefore, the reliability of the electrical connection can be improved.

Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. 7A and 7B are views showing a branch cable which is another example of the present invention, FIG. 7A is a schematic view of the branch cable, and FIG. 7B is an enlarged view of a main part of FIG. 7A. 8A and 8B are views showing the machined portion of FIG. 7, where FIG. 8A is an enlarged view showing a state before machining, FIG. 8B is an enlarged view showing a state after machining, and FIG. 8C is a comparative example. It is an enlarged view which shows the processed part. 9A and 9B are views showing the connection portion of FIG. 7, where FIG. 9A is an enlarged view before ultrasonic bonding and FIG. 9B is an enlarged view after ultrasonic bonding.

<About the configuration of the branch cable 71>
In FIG. 7, reference numeral 71 indicates a branch cable of the present invention. The branch cable 71 is used for low-voltage wiring in condominiums, buildings (hereinafter abbreviated as buildings), apartment houses, factories, tunnels, etc., as in the first embodiment. The branch cable 71 is sometimes called a branch cable. Such a branch cable 71 includes a trunk line 72, a plurality of branch lines 73, and a lifting metal fitting 74. Reference mark 75 in the branch cable 71 indicates an insulation processing portion that covers the connection portion 76 described later.

<For example, laying branch cable 71 in a building>
The laying of the branch cable 71 is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted here.

<About the electrical connection part 76 of the main line 72 and the two branch lines 73>
In FIGS. 7 and 9, as the trunk line 72 and the two branch lines 73, a 600 V cross-linked polyethylene insulated vinyl sheath cable is adopted as in the first embodiment. It is assumed that the number of branch lines 73 is two as an example. The main line 72 and the two branch lines 73 are formed with these electrical connection portions 76. The two branch lines 73 are branched from the trunk line 72 via the connecting portion 76. The connecting portion 76 is formed by electrically connecting the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 77 and the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78. In forming the connecting portion 76, the pipe member 79 is used in the present invention of the fourth embodiment.

<About the conductor exposed part 77 on the trunk line side>
In FIG. 9, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 77 is formed by removing (peeling) the coating 80 in the middle of the trunk line 72 at an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 80, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductor of the trunk wire 72 (exposed portion 77 of the conductor on the trunk wire side) is formed by twisting annealed copper strands. The conductor size of the trunk wire 72 is larger than that of the branch wire 73, and therefore the wire diameter is also large (in the figure, it is exaggerated to show that the wire diameters are different).

<About the two exposed conductors on the branch line side 78>
In FIG. 9, the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78 are formed by removing (peeling) the coating 81 at the end of the two branch line 73 by an appropriate length. Regarding the removal of the coating 81, the same construction method as before is adopted. The conductors of the two branch wires 73 (exposed conductor 78 on the branch wire side) are formed by twisting annealed copper strands (the strands are thinner than the strands of the trunk wire 72). It is assumed that the two branch lines 73 are shown side by side in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

<About pipe member 79>
In FIGS. 8 and 9, the pipe member 79 is made of copper and is formed to have a predetermined length and a predetermined diameter (preferably formed of a material that matches the wire material of the trunk wire 72 and the two branch wires 73). The pipe member 79 is used to electrically connect the main conductor side conductor exposed portion 77 and the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78. Specifically, it is assembled in advance on the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side (see FIGS. 8A to 8B) and used for electrical connection with the exposed conductor 77 on the trunk line side. As will be understood from the following description, the pipe member 79 is an indispensable member for the present invention, and is also a member capable of making good electrical connection. The assembly of the pipe member 79 means inserting the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side into the through holes 79a of the pipe member 79.

In FIGS. 8 and 9, the pipe member 79 is assembled to the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side, and then formed to form the processed portion 82. The forming process referred to here refers to a structure that facilitates ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding), a structure that stabilizes the electrical connection state, and the area (bonding area) of the welded portion 83 generated by ultrasonic bonding. It is an effective process for realizing a structure for raising the size, a structure for making the connecting portion 76 smaller, and the like, for example, a press process for pressurizing. The processed portion 82 is formed in a portion in a crushed state as shown in FIG. 8 (b). Specifically, it is formed as a processed portion 82 having a conductor contact portion 82a and a pair of fin portions 82b.

In FIGS. 8A to 8B, the conductor contact portion 82a is formed as a portion such that the internal space 79b of the pipe member 79 is narrowed with respect to the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78. In other words, the conductor contact portion 82a is formed in a portion where the pipe member 79 shrinks and the internal space 79b narrows in the process of forming the pair of fin portions 82b. Such a conductor contact portion 82a can be brought into close contact with the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78 by eliminating (or reducing) a gap between the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78. Is formed in a state. On the other hand, the pair of fin portions 82b are formed in fin-shaped (flange-shaped) portions extending along the axial direction of the pipe member 79. In other words, the pair of fin portions 82b is formed in a portion that serves as a crushing allowance. Such a pair of fin portions 82b is formed on a side portion of the conductor contact portion 82a so that it can be handled.

Forming processing in which the pipe member 79 is crushed into an elliptical shape as shown in FIG. 8C is also conceivable, but in the case of the processed portion 101 formed by this processing, the gap becomes large as can be seen from the figure. Therefore, there is a risk that vibration during ultrasonic bonding, which will be described later, may not be sufficiently transmitted. In the present invention, it can be seen that the processed portion 82 as shown in FIG. 8B is effective.

<About the formation of the connecting part 76>
In FIG. 9, in the connecting portion 76, a pipe member 79 (a pipe member 79 in a state where the processed portion 82 is formed) assembled to two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78 is superposed on the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 77. After that, it is formed by applying an ultrasonic bonding horn (not shown) so as to press it from above the conductor contact portion 82a in the processed portion 82 of the pipe member 79 to perform ultrasonic bonding. When ultrasonic bonding is performed, energy due to vibration is concentrated on the superposed portion, and as a result, members are welded to each other to form a connecting portion 76.

Since the connection portion 76 is an electrical connection portion, insulation is required. The branch cable 71 is insulated by the insulation processing section 75 (see FIG. 7).

<About insulation processing unit 75>
In FIG. 7, the insulation processing portion 75 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 76. Specifically, as in Example 1, it is formed into a shape as shown by molding by molding using a vinyl chloride resin, polyethylene or the like. The insulation processing portion 75 is formed so as to cover the main wire 72 and the coatings 80 and 81 of the two branch wires 73. Since the structure of the connecting portion 76 is different from that of the conventional example, the insulation processing portion 75 is formed in a slimmer shape than the conventional example (even if the shape is slim, sufficient insulation performance is ensured. ).

<About the effect of branch cable 71>
As described above with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, the branch cable 71 of the present invention has a feature in forming the connecting portion 76. Specifically, in forming the connecting portion 76 by electrically connecting the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 77 of the trunk line 72 and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 78 of the two branch wires 73, as in the conventional example. It is characterized by adopting a structure that does not use a compression connector 8 (see FIG. 10). In the connection portion 76, the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78 are not directly connected to the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 77, but the conductive pipe member 79 is assembled to the two branch line side conductor exposed portions 78. Formed on. As a result, the connection portion 76 can be made smaller than when the compression connector 8 is used.

More specifically, when the compression connector 8 (see FIG. 10) as in the conventional example is used, the trunk line side conductor exposed portion 6 (see FIG. 10) and the branch line side conductor exposed portion 7 (see FIG. 10). ), Since the compression connector 8 is present all around the overlapped portion, the size is naturally increased. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the connection is made via the pipe member 79 assembled to the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side, only a part of the size is increased when viewed in the circumferential direction of the overlapped portion. I'm done. Therefore, even if the insulation processing portion 75 is formed so as to cover the connection portion 76, the size does not increase. As long as the size of the insulation processing section 75 is not increased, it is not necessary to use a large device for this formation. Further, if the insulation processing portion 75 is not enlarged, the amount of the resin material used can be reduced as compared with the conventional example. Further, if the insulation processing portion 75 is not enlarged, the branch cable 71 can be smoothly passed through a through hole (not shown) when laying the branch cable 71. Therefore, it is possible to improve productivity and workability and reduce costs.

In addition, since ultrasonic bonding (ultrasonic welding) is adopted for forming the connecting portion 76, the connecting portion 76 can be formed easily and speedily. Therefore, productivity can be improved. Further, since the pipe member 79 is used to form the connecting portion 76, it is possible to prevent the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side from being separated, and to prevent, for example, a thin wire from being cut by the vibration of ultrasonic welding. Can be done. Further, even if the wire diameters are different, the pipe member 79 is interposed, so that the connection with the conductor exposed portion 77 on the trunk line side can be stabilized and a sufficient joint area can be secured. Therefore, the reliability of the electrical connection can be improved.

Further, in the present invention, since the processed portion 82 is formed on the pipe member 79, the following can also be performed. That is, since the processed portion 82 is formed so as to have the conductor contact portion 82a and the pair of fin portions 82b, the conductor contact portion 82a is brought into close contact with the two exposed conductors 78 on the branch line side. As a result, it is possible to structurally facilitate the transmission of vibration and pressure of ultrasonic bonding. Further, since the pair of fin portions 82b serves as a handle, workability can be improved.

It goes without saying that the present invention can be modified in various ways without changing the gist of the present invention.

11 ... Branch cable, 12 ... Trunk line, 13 ... Branch line, 14 ... Lifting metal fittings, 15 ... Insulation processing part, 16 ... Connection part, 17 ... Trunk line side conductor exposed part, 18 ... Branch line side conductor exposed part, 19 ... Welding Part, 20, 21 ... Cover, 31 ... Branch cable, 32 ... Trunk line, 33 ... Branch line, 34 ... Lifting bracket, 35 ... Insulation processing part, 36 ... Connection part, 37 ... Trunk side conductor exposed part, 38 ... Branch line Exposed side conductor, 39 ... Pipe member, 40, 41 ... Coating, 42 ... Processed part, 43 ... Welded part, 51 ... Branch cable, 52 ... Trunk line, 53 ... Branch line, 54 ... Lifting metal fitting, 55 ... Insulation processing part , 56 ... Connection part, 57 ... Trunk line side conductor exposed part, 58 ... Branch line side conductor exposed part, 59 ... Terminal, 60, 61 ... Coating, 62 ... Clamping part, 63 ... Conductor welded part, 64 ... Connecting part, 65 ... Welded part, 71 ... Branch cable, 72 ... Trunk line, 73 ... Branch line, 74 ... Lifting bracket, 75 ... Insulation processing part, 76 ... Connection part, 77 ... Trunk side conductor exposed part, 78 ... Branch line side conductor exposed Part, 79 ... Pipe member, 79a ... Through hole, 79b ... Internal space, 80, 81 ... Coating, 82 ... Processed part, 82a ... Conductor contact part, 82b ... Fin part, 83 ... Welded part

Claims (6)

Each of the trunk wire and the branch wire is provided with a trunk wire and a branch wire having a conductor formed by twisting the strands, and also has an insulation processing portion. The trunk wire and the branch wire, respectively, remove the coating at a predetermined position to expose the conductor. It has a trunk line side conductor exposed portion and a branch line side conductor exposed portion formed in this manner, and the insulation processing portion covers an electrical connection portion of the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion. , In the branch cable
The exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side and the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side have different diameters of the strands constituting the conductor, and the connecting portion is formed by welding , and the connecting portion is formed by welding. Upon formation, the branch cable, characterized in that that the assembly pipe electrically conductive member to the conductor in advance the branch line side conductor exposed portion. In the branch cable according to claim 1,
In forming the connection portion by the welding, forming processing is performed in advance on either the trunk line side conductor exposed portion and the branch line side conductor exposed portion, or the trunk line side conductor exposed portion or the branch line side conductor exposed portion. A branch cable characterized by being applied. In the branch cable according to claim 1 or 2.
After assembling the pipe member in the branch line side conductor exposed portion, the branch cable, characterized in that that form a working unit to the pipe member by applying a forming process. In the branch cable according to claim 3,
The processed portion has a conductor contact portion that is a portion that narrows the internal space of the pipe member with respect to the conductor exposed portion on the branch line side, and a fin portion that is a handleable portion on the side portion of the conductor contact portion. A branch cable characterized by forming into a state . In the branch cable according to claim 1 or 2 .
A branch cable characterized in that the pipe member assembled to the exposed portion of the conductor on the branch line side is placed along the exposed portion of the conductor on the trunk line side and then formed to form a processed portion on the pipe member . In the branch cable according to claim 1, 2, 3 , 4 or 5 .
A branch cable characterized in that the welding is ultrasonic bonding or resistance welding .

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