SE2050815A1

SE2050815A1 - A device for the electrical connection of a conductor to another conductor

Info

Publication number: SE2050815A1
Application number: SE2050815A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Andreas Zafeiropoulos; Jean-Baptiste Billot; Magnus Candell
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2020-07-01
Filing date: 2020-07-01
Publication date: 2022-01-02
Also published as: SE545099C2; DE102021114835A1

Abstract

A device (100; 200) comprising an interface (102) for providing an electrical connection (104) between a first conductor (106) and a second conductor (108) and for providing an electrical connection (110) between a third conductor (112) and a fourth conductor (114). The interface (102) comprises a plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b). The interface (102) comprises a holder (120; 220) for holding the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b). The electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) are spaced apart from one another. A first electrically conductive member (116a) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) is configured for electrical contact with the first conductor (106) and the second conductor (108). A second electrically conductive member (116b) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) is configured for electrical contact with the third conductor (112) and the fourth conductor (114).

Description

A DEVICE FOR THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION OF A CONDUCTOR TOANOTHER CONDUCTOR Technical fieldAspects of the present invention relate to a device for the electrical connection of aconductor to another conductor. Further, aspects of the present invention relate to a connection arrangement including a device of the above-mentioned sort.

Background ln general, hybrid vehicles having both a combustion engine and one or more electricalmachines for driving the drive whconeels of the vehicle or electric vehicles with one ormore electrical machines only for driving the drive wheels of the vehicle have one ormore electrical batteries for providing electric power to the electrical machine. lngeneral, the hybrid vehicle or the electric vehicle has a vehicle electrical system, whichmay be called vehicle high voltage system (VCB), which may be electrically connected,or connectable, to the electric battery or electric batteries of the vehicle. For example,the vehicle electrical system transfers electric power or electric current betweenvarious electrical apparatuses or units included in the hybrid vehicle or the electricvehicle.

Summary Conventionally, the vehicle high voltage system (VCB) of a hybrid vehicle or an electricvehicle has included electrical cables for the transfer of electric current betweenelectrical apparatuses or units. The inventors of the present invention have founddrawbacks in the use of electrical cables in conventional vehicle high voltage systems,for example in the connections of electrical cables, but also in other conventional highvoltage systems. Further, the inventors of the present invention have identifiedlimitations with regard to electrical cable sizing for high currents. The use of busbarsin the vehicle high voltage system, instead of using electrical cables, may address atleast some of these drawbacks. However, the inventors of the present invention havefound drawbacks in conventional connection configurations for busbars. For example,the quality of at least some conventional connection configurations for busbars may not be sufficient for a vehicle high voltage system of a hybrid vehicle or an electricvehicle, or for other high voltage systems.

An object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

The above and further objects are solved by the subject matter of the independentclaim. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in thedependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects areachieved with a device comprising an interface for providing an electrical connectionbetween a first conductor and a second conductor and for providing an electricalconnection between a third conductor and a fourth conductor, wherein the interfacecomprises a plurality of electrically conductive members, and a holder for holding the plurality of electrically conductive members, wherein the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electricallyconductive members are spaced apart from one another, wherein a first electrically conductive member of the plurality of electricallyconductive members is configured for electrical contact with the first conductor and thesecond conductor, and wherein a second electrically conductive member of the plurality of electricallyconductive members is configured for electrical contact with the third conductor andthe fourth conductor.

An advantage of the device according to the first aspect, since the interface includesone holder and that one and the same holder holds the electrically conductivemembers of the plurality of electrically conductive members, is that the electricalconnection of the first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors, i.e.the electrical connection of the first conductor to the second conductor and theelectrical connection of the third conductor to the fourth conductor, is facilitated andmade sufficient for the vehicle high voltage system of a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle. Further, an advantage of the device according to the first aspect is that themechanical mounting of the electrical connection of the first and third conductors to thesecond and fourth conductors, or, expressed alternatively, the mechanical connectionof the first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors, i.e. themechanical connection of the first conductor to the second conductor and themechanical connection of the third conductor to the fourth conductor, is facilitated andmade sufficient for the vehicle high voltage system of a hybrid vehicle or an electricvehicle. An advantage of the device according to the first aspect is also that theelectrical insulation of the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electricallyconductive members from one another is facilitated. Further, an advantage of thedevice according to the first aspect is that a connection of conductors, for example ofbusbars, which provides an electrical insulation sufficient for the vehicle high voltagesystem, is achieved, for example with regard to electrically insulated or encapsulated(or encased) conductors, for example insulated or encapsulated busbars. Thus, anadvantage of the device according to the first aspect is that an efficient electricalconnection of the first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is provided.

The device may be called a connector or a lead-through unit. Each ofthe first and thirdconductors may be configured to carry or conduct a direct current. One of the first andthird conductors may be configured to carry or conduct DC+ while the other one of thefirst and third conductors may be configured to carry or conduct DC-. An advantage ofthe device according to the first aspect is that an electrical connection, for example abusbar connection (for example a busbar-to-busbar connection), which is sufficient tobe used in a vehicle high voltage system (VCB) of a vehicle, can be attained. Theelectric power, or the electric current, of the vehicle high voltage system (VCB) istransferred at a high voltage, for example above 60 V, such as above 400 V. Theelectric power, or the electric current, of the vehicle high voltage system (VCB) may betransferred at a voltage up to 1500 V.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the first conductor comprises or consists of any one of: a first busbar and a firstelectrical cable, wherein the third conductor comprises or consists of any one of: a second busbar and a second electrical cable. ln some embodiments, the innovativedevice and its innovative interface are especially advantageous when the firstconductor comprises or consists of a first busbar, and when the third conductorcomprises or consists of a second busbar. The second conductor may comprise ormay consist of any one of: a third busbar and a third electrical cable. The fourthconductor may comprise or may consist of any one of: a fourth busbar and/or a fourthelectrical cable.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the first electrically conductive member is attachable to the first conductor,wherein the second electrically conductive member is attachable to the third conductor.An advantage of this embodiment is that the electrical connection of the first and thirdconductors to the second and fourth conductors is facilitated, whereby an efficientelectrical connection of the first and third conductors to the second and fourthconductors is provided. ln alternative embodiments, the holder may be attachable tothe first and third conductors.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the first electrically conductive member is attachable to the second conductor,wherein the second electrically conductive member is attachable to the fourthconductor. An advantage of this embodiment is that the electrical connection of thefirst and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is facilitated, wherebyan efficient electrical connection of the first and third conductors to the second andfourth conductors is provided. ln alternative embodiments, the holder may beattachable to the second and fourth conductors.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the first electrically conductive member comprises one or more threaded holesfor the attachment to one or more of: the first conductor and the second conductor,wherein the second electrically conductive member comprises one or more threadedholes for the attachment to one or more of: the third conductor and the fourthconductor. An advantage of this embodiment is that the mechanical connection of thefirst and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is facilitated. An advantage of this embodiment is that the electrical connection of the first and thirdconductors to the second and fourth conductors is faciiitated. An advantage of thisembodiment is that an efficient electrical connection of the first and third conductorsto the second and fourth conductors is provided. The threaded hole may be a threadedbore. ln some embodiments, the first electrically conductive member may compriseone threaded hole for the attachment to both the first conductor and the secondconductor. The first electrically conductive member may comprise a threaded throughhole for the attachment to one or more of: the first conductor and the second conductor.ln some embodiments, the second electrically conductive member may comprise onethreaded hole for the attachment to both the third conductor and the fourth conductor.The second electrically conductive member may comprise a threaded through hole forthe attachment to one or more of: the third conductor and the fourth conductor. lnalternative embodiments, instead of one or more threaded holes, other types of attachments or means of attachments may be provided.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the holderforms a plurality of through holes, wherein each through hole ofthe plurality of through holes is complementary to one of the plurality of electricallyconductive members, and wherein each through hole of the plurality of through holesholds one of the plurality of electrically conductive members. An advantage of thisembodiment is that a robust and secure interface for providing an electrical connectionbetween a first conductor and a second conductor and for providing an electricalconnection between a third conductor and a fourth conductor is provided. Thus, anadvantage of this embodiment is that a robust, secure and efficient electricalconnection of the first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is provided.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the holder comprises one or more intermediate walls, wherein eachintermediate wall separates one of the plurality of through holes from another one ofthe plurality of through holes.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the first aspect,the plurality of electrically conductive members and the holder form a single unit. Asalso stated above, this embodiment facilitates the electrical connection of the first andthird conductors to the second and fourth conductors, the mechanica| connection ofthe first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors and the electricalinsulation of the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electrically conductive members from one another.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, each electrically conductive member of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers comprises an electrically conductive pin. An advantage of this embodimentis that the electrical connection of the first and third conductors to the second and fourthconductors is facilitated.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, each electrically conductive member of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers has one of: o a circular cross-section; and o an oval cross-section.An advantage of this embodiment is that the electrical connection of the first and thirdconductors to the second and fourth conductors is facilitated. Further, an advantage ofthis embodiment is that the mechanica| connection of the first and third conductors tothe second and fourth conductors is facilitated. However, in alternative embodiments,each electrically conductive member of the plurality of electrically conductive membersmay have a rectangular cross-section or a cross-section with any other shape.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the device comprises one or more first sealings surrounding one or moreof the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers, wherein the first sealing is configured to seal between the holder and oneor more of: o the first conductor; and o the third conductor.

An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient sealing of the first and thirdconductors and the plurality of electrically conductive members is provided. Anadvantage of this embodiment is that a connection of conductors, for example busbars,which is sufficiently watertight and dust-tight for the vehicle high voltage system, isachieved, for example with regard to electrically insulated or encapsulated (orencased) conductors, for example insulated or encapsulated (or encased) busbars. Anadvantage of this embodiment is that an efficient electrical connection of the first andthird conductors to the second and fourth conductors is provided.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, each electrically conductive member of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers is provided with a second sealing surrounding one of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members, wherein the second sealing is configured to sealbetween the holder and one of the plurality of electrically conductive members. Thesecond sealing may be located in or adjacent to one of the plurality of through holes ofthe holder. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient sealing of the secondand fourth conductors and/or the first and third conductors is provided. An advantageof this embodiment is that a connection of conductors, for example busbars, which issufficiently watertight and dust-tight for the vehicle high voltage system, is achieved,for example with regard to electrically insulated or encapsulated (or encased)conductors, for example electrically insulated or encapsulated (or encased) busbars.An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient electrical connection of the firstand third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is provided.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the device comprises one or more third sealings surrounding one or more of the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electrically conductive members, wherein the third sealing is configured to seal between the holder and one or more of:o the second conductor; and o the fourth conductor.

An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient sealing of the second and fourthconductors and the plurality of electrically conductive members is provided. Anadvantage of this embodiment is that a connection of conductors, for example busbars,which is sufficiently watertight and dust-tight for the vehicle high voltage system, isachieved, for example with regard to electrically insulated or encapsulated (orencased) conductors, for example electrically insulated or encapsulated (or encased)busbars. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient electrical connection ofthe first and third conductors to the second and fourth conductors is provided.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the electrically conductive members of the plurality of electrically conductive members are electrically insulated from one another.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the firstaspect, the holder electrically insulates the electrically conductive members of theplurality of electrically conductive members from one another. An advantage of thisembodiment is that is that an efficient electrical insulation of the electrically conductivemembers of the plurality of electrically conductive members from one another isprovided. This embodiment provides a robust and secure interface and thus providesa robust, secure and efficient electrical connection of the first and third conductors tothe second and fourth conductors.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the device according to thefirst aspect, the holder is at least partly made of an electrically insulating material. Forexample, the exterior of the holder may be made of an electrically insulating materialwhile the core of the holder is made of any other material. ln some embodiment, theentire holder may be made of an electrically insulating material.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with a connection arrangement comprising the device according to anyone of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments, wherein the connectionarrangement comprises the first and third conductors. The first conductor maycomprise or may consist of any one of: a first busbar and a first electrical cable. The third conductor may comprise or consist of any one of: a second busbar and a secondelectrical cable.

The advantages of the connection arrangement according to the second aspect andits embodiments correspond to the above- or below-mentioned advantages of thedevice according to the first aspect and its embodiments.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the connection arrangement accordingto the second aspect, each of the first and third conductors is configured to carry orconduct a direct current, for example at a high voltage, such as a voltage above 60 V,for example a voltage above 400 V.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the connection arrangementaccording to the second aspect, the connection arrangement comprises the secondand fourth conductors. The second conductor may comprise or may consist of any oneof: a third busbar and a third electrical cable. The fourth conductor may comprise ormay consist of any one of: a fourth busbar and/or a fourth electrical cable.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the connection arrangementaccording to the second aspect, the connection arrangement comprises a casing whichat least partly, for example entirely or completely, houses one or more of the first andthird conductors. For example, the casing may at least partly, for example entirely,house the first and third conductors. The casing may provide an electrical insulation ofone or more of the first and third conductors. The casing may be an electrical insulatingcasing configured to electrical insulate one or more of the first and third conductors.When the first and third conductors are busbars, the casing may be referred to as abusbar casing.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with a vehicle comprising one or more of the group of:o a device according to any one of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments;and o a connection arrangement according to any one of the above- or below- mentioned embodiments.

The advantages of the vehicle according to the third aspect and its embodimentscorrespond to the above- or below-mentioned advantages of the device according tothe first aspect and its embodiments.

The vehicle may include a vehicle electrical system electrically connectable to one ormore electric batteries. The vehicle electrical system may be, or may be called, avehicle high voltage system (VCB).

The vehicle may be a wheeled vehicle, i.e. a vehicle having wheels. The vehicle mayfor example be a bus, a tractor vehicle, a truck or a car. Other types of vehicles are possible.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectsare achieved with a vehicle high voltage system comprising a connection arrangementaccording to any one of the above- or below-mentioned embodiments. The vehiclehigh voltage system may be configured for direct current. The vehicle high voltagesystem may be configured for a high voltage above 60 V, for example above 400 V.For example, the vehicle high voltage system may be configured for a high voltage upto 1500 V.

The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the device, the connectionarrangement, the vehicle high voltage system and the vehicle, respectively, may becombined in various possible ways providing further advantageous embodiments.

Further advantageous embodiments of the device, the connection arrangement, thevehicle high voltage system and the vehicle according to the present invention andfurther advantages with the embodiments of the present invention emerge from thedetailed description hereinbelow. ll Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated, for exemplary purposes, in more detail by way of embodiments and with reference to the enclosed drawings, where similar references are used for similar parts, in which: 11 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the deviceaccording to the first aspect of the invention; is a schematic top view of the device of Fig. 1; is a schematic side view of the device of Fig. 1; is a schematic bottom view of the device of Fig. 1; schematically illustrates a cross-section of the device along A-A in Fig. 2;schematically illustrates a cross-section of the holder dismantled from thedevice along A-A in Fig. 2; is a schematic bottom view of a second embodiment of the deviceaccording to the first aspect of the invention; schematically illustrates a cross-section of the device along B-B in Fig. 7;is a schematic cross-section view of the device of Fig. 1 illustrated togetherwith busbars as well as a schematic cross-section view of a firstembodiment of the connection arrangement according to the secondaspect of the invention; is a schematic side view of the connection arrangement of Fig. 9; is a schematic cross-section view of the device of Fig. 1 illustrated togetherwith busbars and electrical cables as well as a schematic cross-sectionview of a second embodiment of the connection arrangement accordingto the second aspect of the invention; and is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the vehicle according to thethird aspect of the invention comprising an embodiment of the deviceaccording to the first aspect, an embodiment of the connectionarrangement according to the second aspect and/or an embodiment of thevehicle high voltage system according to the fourth aspect. 12 Detailed Description With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, a first embodiment of the device 100 according to thefirst aspect is schematically illustrated. With reference to Figs. 5, 9 and 11, the device100 includes an interface 102 for providing an electrical connection 104 between a firstconductor 106 and a second conductor 108 and for providing an electrical connection110 between a third conductor 112 and a fourth conductor 114. Thus, the interface 102is configured to provide both a first electrical connection 104 between the firstconductor 106 and the second conductor 108 and a second electrical connection 110between the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 1 14. The first conductor 106may be described as a first electrical conductor 106. The second conductor 108 maybe described as a second electrical conductor 108. The third conductor 112 may bedescribed as a third electrical conductor 112. The fourth conductor 114 may be described as a fourth electrical conductor 114.

With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, the first conductor 106 may comprise or may consist ofany one of: a first busbar 113 and a first electrical cable 115. The third conductor 112may comprise or may consist of any one of: a second busbar 117 and a secondelectrical cable 119.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, the interface 102 includes a plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b, i.e. two or more electrically conductive members116a, 116b. Each one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members116a, 116b may be made of any suitable electrically conductive material, such as amaterial comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy, for example copper.However, other materials are possible. Each electrically conductive member 116a,116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b may comprise, orconsist of, an electrically conductive pin 118a, 118b. Each electrically conductivemember 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b, forexample each electrically conductive pin 118a, 118b, may have one of: a circular cross-section and an oval cross-section. With reference to Figs. 1, 2 and 4, in the shownembodiment shown, the cross-section of the electrically conductive member 116a, 13 116b is Circular. However, other cross-sections for the electrically conductive member116a, 116b are possible.

The interface 102 includes a holder 120 for holding the plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b. The holder 120 may be at least partly, or entirely,made of an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material of theholder 120 may for example be a polymer or a polymer composite, for example withsufficient dielectric strength. For example, the electrically insulating material of theholder 120 may including fibres, such as glass fibres. However, other electricallyinsulating materials, for example with sufficient dielectric strength, for the holder 120are possible. For example, the exterior of the holder 120 may be made of an electricallyinsulating material while the core of the holder is made of any other material, for example any composite.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, the electrically conductive members 116a, 116b of theplurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b are spaced apart from oneanother, i.e. placed with a distance 121 to one another, the distance 121 beingindicated in Figs. 2 and 5. With reference to Figs. 2, 5 and 6, in the shown embodiment,the distance 121 between one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b and another one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b is attained, or provided, by a plurality of though holes122 formed, or defined, by the holder 120. With reference to Fig. 6, each through hole122 of the plurality of through holes 122 is complementary to one 116a, 116b of theplurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b, i.e. the shape of the throughhole 122 is adapted to the shape of the electrically conductive member 116a, 116b.Thus, for example, when the cross-section of the electrically conductive member 116a,116b is circular, then the cross-section of the through hole 122 is circular, or an innerwall 123 of the through hole 122, i.e. the inner wall 123 that defines the through hole122, forms a cylindrical hole into which the electrically conductive member 116a, 116bfits, for example snugly fits, i.e. fits in a snugging manner. Each through hole 122 ofthe plurality of through holes 122 holds one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b. There may be a small gap or play between theelectrically conductive member 116a, 116b and the inner wall 123 of the through hole 14 122 holding the electrically conductive member 116a, 116b, to allow for the electricallyconductive member 116a, 116b to laterally expand due to elevated temperatures whentransferring electric power or electric current at a high voltage, for example a voltageabove 60 V and up to 1500 V. These elevated temperatures may also be consideredwhen selecting the material of the holder 120. For example, the material of the holder120 may be configured to withstand elevated temperatures as a result of the transferof electric power or electric current at a high voltage, for example any voltage mentioned above or below.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, the holder 120 may have one or more intermediate walls124, wherein each intermediate wall 124 separates one 122 of the plurality of throughholes 122 from another one 122 of the plurality of through holes 122. lt may also bedefined that each intermediate wall 124 separates one 116a, 116b of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members 116a, 116b from another one 116a, 116b of theplurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b. Thus, the intermediate wall124 may provide, fill, or define, the distance 121 , or the space, between two electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b.

With reference to Figs. 9 and 10, a first electrically conductive member 116a of theplurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b is configured for electricalcontact with the first conductor 106, for example the first busbar 113, and the secondconductor 108, for example with an end portion of the first conductor 106 and an endportion of the second conductor 108. lt may be defined that the first electricallyconductive member 116a of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a,116b is configured to make electrical contact, such as direct electrical contact, with thefirst conductor 106, for example the first busbar 1 13, and the second conductor 108. Asecond electrically conductive member 116b of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b is configured for electrical contact with the third conductor 112,for example the second busbar 117, and the fourth conductor 114, for example with anend portion of the third conductor 112 and an end portion of the fourth conductor 114.lt may be defined that the second electrically conductive member 116b of the pluralityof electrically conductive members 116a, 116b is configured to make electrical contact,such as direct electrical contact, with the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114. Direct electrical contact may be defined as an electrical contact without any intermediate conductor.

With reference to the embodiments of Fig. 11, the first busbar 113 (see Fig. 9) hasbeen replaced by a first electrical cable 115. The second busbar 117 (see Fig. 9) hasbeen replaced by a second electrical cable 119. The first electrically conductivemember 116a of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b may beconfigured for electrical contact with the first electrical cable 115 and the secondconductor 108. The second electrically conductive member 116b of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members 116a, 116b may be configured for electrical contactwith the second electrical cable 119 and the fourth conductor 114.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, it may be defined that the holder 120 has a has a topside 126 and a bottom side 128. lt may be defined that the holder 120 has a lateralside 130, which can be described as a circumferential side 130, which connects thetop side 126 to the bottom side 128 of the holder 120. With reference to Fig. 6, in theshown embodiment, each through hole 122 of the above-mentioned plurality of thoughholes 122 goes through the holder 120 and opens into the top side 126 and into thebottom side 128. Thus, with reference to Fig. 6, in the shown embodiment, the top side126 is provided with one mouth 132 of the through hole 122 and the bottom side 128is provided with the other mouth 134 of the through hole 122. With reference to Fig. 5,it may be defined that each electrically conductive member 116a, 116b has alongitudinal extension 135. lt may be defined that when the electrically conductivemember 116a, 116b is in electrical contact with one of the first and third conductors106, 112 and with one of the second and fourth conductors 108, 114, the longitudinalextension 135 of the electrically conductive member 1 16a, 116b is configured to extendfrom one the first and third conductors 106, 112 to one of the second and fourthconductors 108, 114. With reference to Fig. 5, it may be defined that the longitudinalextension 135 of the electrically conductive member 116a, 116b exceeds the thickness136 of the holder 120, i.e. the distance 136 between the top side 126 of the holder 120and the bottom side 128 of the holder 120. With reference to Fig. 9, the top side 126of the holder 120 may be configured to face the first and third conductors 106, 112. 16 With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, the first electrically conductive member 116a may beattachable to the first conductor 106. The second electrically conductive member 116bmay be attachable to the third conductor 112. The first electrically conductive member116a may be attachable to the second conductor 108. The second electricallyconductive member 116b may be attachable to the fourth conductor 114. Withreference to Figs. 1 to 5 and 9, the first electrically conductive member 116a may haveone or more threaded holes 138a for the attachment to one or more of: the firstconductor 106 and the second conductor 108. The second electrically conductivemember 116b may have one or more threaded holes 138b for the attachment to oneor more of: the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114. Each threaded hole138a, 138b may be a threaded bore. The threaded hole 138a, 138b may be associatedwith a threaded element, for example a screw. The threaded hole 138a of the firstelectrically conductive member 116a and the threaded element may form a screwjointfor the attachment of the first electrically conductive member 116a to one or more of:the first conductor 106 and the second conductor 108. The threaded hole 138b of thesecond electrically conductive member 116b and the threaded element may form ascrew joint for the attachment of the second electrically conductive member 116b to one or more of: the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114.

With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, in some embodiments, the first electrically conductivemember 116a may comprise one threaded hole 138a for the attachment to both thefirst conductor 106 and the second conductor 108. With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, inthe shown embodiment, the first electrically conductive member 116a comprises athreaded through hole 138a for the attachment to one or more of: the first conductor106 and the second conductor 108. ln some embodiments, the second electricallyconductive member 116b may comprise one threaded hole 138b for the attachment toboth the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114. With reference to Figs. 9and 10, in the shown embodiment, the second electrically conductive member 116bcomprises a threaded through hole 138a for the attachment to one or more of: the thirdconductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114. However, in some embodiments, thethreaded holes 138a, 138 are not through holes. 17 With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, it may be defined that the electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116bare electrically insulated from one another. Thus, more specifically, it may be definedthat the first electrically conductive member 116a is electrically insulated from thesecond electrically conductive member 116b. Further, it may be defined that the holder120 electrically insulates, or is configured to electrically insulate, the electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members116, 116b from one another. Thus, more specifically, it may be defined that the holder120 electrically insulates, or is configured to electrically insulate, the first electrically conductive member 116a from the second electrically conductive member 116b.

With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, one or more of the first and third conductors 106, 112may be at least partly, for example entirely or completely, housed in a casing 140. lnthe embodiments shown in Figs. 9 and 11, both the first and third conductors 106, 112are at least partly, for example entirely, housed in the same casing 140. The casing140 may be configured to provide an electrical insulation of one or more of the first andthird conductors 106, 112, for example both of the first and third conductors 106, 112.The casing 140 may be an electrical insulating casing 140 configured to electricalinsulate one or more of the first and third conductors 106, 112. The casing 140 may bemade of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy, for examplealuminum, or any other material. When the first and third conductors 106, 112 are busbars, the casing 140 may be referred to as a busbar casing 140.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 3, 5 and 6, the device 100 may include one or more firstsealings 142 surrounding, however not completely encapsulating, one or more of theelectrically conductive members 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b. The first sealing 142 is configured to seal, directly or indirectly,between the holder 120 and one or more of: the first conductor 106 and the thirdconductor 112. With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, when the first conductor 106 and/or thethird conductor 112 are/is at least partly, for example completely, housed in a casing140, for example as disclosed above, and when the holder 120 is housed inside a box355 (which is disclosed in further detail hereinbelow) while the casing 140 is locatedoutside the box 355, the first sealing 142 may be configured to seal directly between 18 the holder 120 and the box 355, and thereby configured to indirectly seal between theholder 120 and the first conductor 106 and/or the second conductor 112. Withreference to Figs. 1 and 2, the first sealing 142 may be an annularfirst sealing 142. lnalternative embodiments, the device 100 may include a plurality of first sealings, i.e.two or more first sealings, wherein each first sealing surrounds only one of theelectrically conductive members 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b, and wherein each first sealing is configured to seal, directly orindirectly, between the holder 120 and only one of: the first conductor 106 and the thirdconductor 112. The holder 120, for example the top side 126 of the holder 120, maybe configured to hold the first sealing 142.

With reference to Figs. 5 and 6, each electrically conductive member 116a, 116b ofthe plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b may be provided with asecond sealing 144 surrounding one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b. The second sealing 144 is configured to sealbetween the holder 120 and one 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b. The second sealing 144 may be an annular second sealing 144.The holder 120 may be configured to hold the second sealing 144. The second sealing144 may be located in or adjacent to one 122 of the plurality of through holes 122 ofthe holder 120. ln alternative embodiments, one or more of the first and second sealings 142, 144 maybe excluded from the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 6.

With reference to Figs. 7 and 8, a second embodiment of the device 200 according tothe first aspect is schematically illustrated. The second embodiment shown in Figs. 7and 8 corresponds in several aspects to the first embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 6, soonly some of the differences between the second embodiment and the firstembodiment will be mentioned herein. With reference to Figs. 7 and 8, in addition tothe first and second sealings 142, 144 mentioned above in connection with the firstembodiment of the device 100, the device 200 shown in Figs. 7 and 8 comprises oneor more third sealings 246 surrounding one or more of the electrically conductivemembers 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b. 19 The holder 220, for example the bottom side 228 of the holder 220, may be configuredto hold the third sealing 246. The third sealing 246 is configured to seal, directly orindirectly, between the holder 220 and one or more of: the second conductor 108 andthe fourth conductor 114. With reference to Figs. 7 and 8, more specifically, in theshown embodiment, the device 200 includes a plurality of third sealings 246, morespecifically two third sealings 246 in the shown embodiment. Each third sealing 246surrounds only one 116a, 116b of the electrically conductive members 116a, 116b ofthe plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b, wherein each third sealing246 is configured to seal, directly or indirectly, between the holder 220 and one of: thesecond conductor 108 and the fourth conductor 114. With reference to Fig. 7, the thirdsealing 246 may be an annular third sealing 246. ln alternative embodiments, one ormore of the first and second sealings 142, 144 may be excluded from the embodimentshown in Figs. 7 and 8. For example, when the holder 120 is located inside a box 355(which is disclosed in further detail hereinbelow), and the second conductor 108 andthe fourth conductor 114 are located outside this box 355, the third sealing 246 maybe configured to seal directly between the holder 120 and the box 355, and therebyconfigured to indirectly seal between the holder 120 and the second and fourthconductors 108, 114.

One or more of the first, second and third sealings 142, 144, 246, may be made of amaterial comprising or consisting of a polymer or a polymer composite, such as rubber.Other materials are possible. One or more of the first, second and third sealings 142,144, 246 may be circular or oval, or may be of any other shape. One or more of thefirst, second and third sealings 142, 144, 246 may comprise an O-ring, for examplemade of a material comprising or consisting of a polymer or a polymer composite, suchas rubber. Advantageously, the second sealing 144 is adapted to the shape of thethrough hole 122 of the holder 120, for example to the curvature of the inner wall 123of the through hole 122. Advantageously, the second sealing 144 is adapted to theshape of the cross-section of the electrically conductive member 116a, 116b. Thus, inthe shown embodiment, the second sealing 144 may be circular. ln alternativeembodiments, one or more of the first, second and third sealings 142, 144, 246 maybe integrally formed with the holder 120 when manufactured the holder 120. Withreference to the embodiments shown in Figs. 1 to 8, one or more of the first, second and third sealings 142, 144, 246 may be a separate part which is attached, or applied,to the holder 120 when manufacturing the device 100, 200. One or more of the first,second and third sealings 142, 144, 246 may be seated in a recess formed by theholder 120, 220.

The device 100, 200 may be called a connector or a lead-through unit. lt may bedefined that the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b and the holder120, 220 form a single unit. lt may be defined that embodiments of the innovativedevice 100, 200 provides both an electrical connection 104, 110 and a mechanicalconnection between the first conductor 106 and the second conductor 108 andbetween the third conductor 112 and the fourth conductor 114. The holder 120, 220may be produced by moulding, or by any other suitable method. The electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b may be present in the mould when moulding theholder 120, 220. Alternatively, the electrically conductive members 116a, 116b may beinserted into the through holes 122 after moulding the holder 120, 220. The throughholes 122 may be formed when moulding the holder 122, 124 or be provided aftermoulding, for example by drilling.

With reference to Figs. 9 and 10, a first embodiment of the connection arrangement300 according to the second aspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. ln theshown embodiment, the connection arrangement 300 includes an embodiment of thedevice 100, 200, as disclosed above. The connection arrangement 300 further includesthe first and third conductors 106, 112. ln the embodiment shown in Figs. 9 and 10,the first conductor 106 is a first busbar 113, and the third conductor 112 is a secondbusbar 117. ln some embodiments, the connection arrangement 300 may alsocomprise the second and fourth conductors 108, 114. The connection arrangement300 may comprise a casing 140, for example as disclosed above, which houses oneor more of the first and third conductors 106, 112, for example both of the first andthird conductors 106, 112. With reference to Figs. 9 and 10, the second conductor108may comprise or may consist of a third busbar 352 and/or a third electrical cable (notshown). The fourth conductor114 may comprise or may consist of a fourth busbar 354and/or a fourth electrical cable (not shown). The second and fourth conductors 108,114 may be located inside 357 a box 355 or housing. The second and fourth 21 conductors 108, 114 may be described to be encapsulated by the box 355. ln Figs. 9-11, only a portion of a wall of the box 355 is illustrated. The box 355 may be grounded.The box 355 may be made of a material comprising or consisting of a metal or a metalalloy, for example aluminum. Other materials are possible. The box 355 may houseone or more electrical components or apparatuses. One or more of the second andfourth conductors 108, 114 may be electrically connectable, or connected, to theelectrical component or apparatus housed in the box 355. Thus, one or more of thefirst and third conductors 106, 112 may be electrically connectable, or connected, tothe electrical component or apparatus housed in the box 355 via one of the secondand fourth conductors 108, 114. The holder 120 may be located inside 357 the box355 while the first and third conductors 106, 112 may be located outside 358 the box355. The outside 358 may represent an external environment which is also outside 358the casing 140, which in Figs. 9 and 10 encapsulates the first and third conductors106, 112, for example the first and second busbars 113, 117, which are thus locatedinside 360 the casing 140. The plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116bmay extend through an opening 362 formed by the box 355. The plurality of electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b may extend through an opening 364 formed by thecasing 140. The opening 362 of the box 355 may be in alignment with the opening 364of the casing 140. The inside 357, 360 of the casing 140 and the box 355 may representone ore more encapsulated environments. The box 355 may be located in a vehicle400 (see Fig. 12). The vehicle 400 (see Fig. 12) may comprise a plurality of such boxes355, which may include electrical components of various kinds. The first and thirdconductors 106, 112 may be located outside the box 355. The casing 140 may belocated outside the box 355.

With reference to Figs. 9 and 10, the connection arrangement 300 may include one ormore fourth sealings 366 configured to surround one or more of the electricallyconductive members 116a, 116b of the plurality of electrically conductive members116a, 116b. The fourth sealing 366 may surround the opening 362 of the box 355. Thefourth sealing 366 may surround the opening 364 of the casing 140. The one or morefourth sealings 366 may be configured to seal between the casing 140 and the box355. The one or more fourth sealings 366 may be configured to seal around theopening 362 of the box 355 and around the opening 364 of the casing 140. The fourth 22 sealing 366 may be an annual sealing. The fourth sealing 366 may be described as aseal gasket. The fourth sealing 366 may comprise a plate, or a mat, with an opening.The opening of the fourth sealing 366 may be in alignment with the opening 362 of thebox 355 and with the opening 364 of the casing 140. The fourth sealing 366 may beattached to the box 355 or the casing 140. The fourth sealing 366 may be made of amaterial comprising or consisting of a polymer or a polymer composite, such as rubber.Other materials are possible.

With reference to Fig. 11, a second embodiment of the connection arrangement 600according to the second aspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. The secondembodiment shown in Fig. 11 corresponds in several aspects to the first embodimentshown in Figs. 9 and 10, so only some of the differences between the secondembodiment and the first embodiment will be mentioned herein. ln the secondembodiment shown in Fig. 11, the connection arrangement 600 includes anembodiment of the device 100, 200 as disclosed above. Further, the connectionarrangement 600 includes the first and second electrical cables 115, 119. ln someembodiments, the connection arrangement 600 may also comprise the second andfourth conductors 108, 114. Each of the first and second electrical cables 115, 119may have a terminal 668, for example a ring terminal 670. However, other terminals668 are possible. The first electrically conductive member 116a may be attachable tothe terminal 668 of the first electrical cable 115, for example by any type ofattachments, for example including a screw and optionally a nut. The secondelectrically conductive member 116b may be attachable to the terminal 668 of thesecond electrical cable 119, for example by any type of attachments, for example including a screw and optionally a nut.

With reference to Fig. 11, the connection arrangement 600 according to the secondembodiment may comprise a casing 640. The casing 640 may at least partly houseone or more of the first and second electrical cables 115, 119. The casing 640 mayhouse the terminals 668 of the first and second electrical cables 115, 119, i.e. theterminals 668 are located inside 660 the casing 640. The casing 640 in Fig. 11 may bereferred to as a connector or adapter casing/box. The casing 640 may have an opening664 through which the plurality of electrically conductive members 116a, 116b may 23 extend. The casing 640 may be configured to provide an electrical insulation of theterminals 668 of the first and second electrical cables 115, 119. The casing 640 maybe an electrical insulating casing 640 configured to electrical insulate the terminals 668of the first and second electrical cables 115, 119. The casing 640 may be made of amaterial comprising or consisting of a metal or a metal alloy, for example aluminum, or any other material.

Each of the first and third conductors 106, 112 may be configured to carry or conducta direct current, for example at a high voltage, such as above 60 V, for example above400 V. One 106, 112 of the first and third conductors 106, 112 may be configured tocarry or conduct DC+ while the other one 106, 112 of the first and third conductors106, 112 may be configured to carry or conduct DC-. Consequently, each 108, 114 ofthe second and fourth conductors 108, 114 may be configured to carry or conduct adirect current. One 108, 114 of the second and fourth conductors 108, 114 may beconfigured to carry or conduct DC+ while the other one 108, 114 of the second andfourth conductors 108, 114 may be configured to carry or conduct DC-. lt may bedefined that each 106, 112 of the first and third conductors 106, 112 is electricallyconductive. lt may be defined that each 108, 114 of the second and fourth conductors108, 114 is electrically conductive. Each 113, 117, 352, 354 of the above-mentionedbusbars 113, 117, 352, 354 may be described as a bar, for example a rigid bar. Each113, 117, 352, 354 of the above-mentioned busbars 113, 117, 352, 354 may be madeof an electrically conductive material, such as a material comprising or consisting of ametal or a metal alloy, for example copper, brass or aluminum. Other materials are possible.

With reference to Figs. 9 to 11, embodiments of the vehicle high voltage system 500,700 according to the fourth aspect of the invention is also schematically illustrated. Thevehicle high voltage system 500, 700 comprises a connection arrangement 300, 600according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments. The vehicle high voltagesystem 500, 700 may be configured for direct current. The vehicle high voltage system500, 700 may be configured for a high voltage above 60 V, for example above 400 V.The vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 may be configured for a high voltage up to1500 V. The vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 may be described as a vehicle 24 electrical system. The vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 may be referred to as aVCB.

With reference to Fig. 12, an embodiment of the vehicle 400 according to the thirdaspect of the invention is schematically illustrated. ln Fig. 12, the vehicle 400 isillustrated as a tractor vehicle. However, in other embodiments, the vehicle 400 may,for example, be a bus, a truck, or a car. Other types of vehicles are possible. Thevehicle 400 may be an electric vehicle, EV, for example a hybrid vehicle or a hybridelectric vehicle, HEV, or a battery electric vehicle, BEV. lt is to be understood that thevehicle 400 may include further unites, components, such as electrical and/ormechanical components, and apparatuses required for a vehicle 400, such as for anEV, HEV or BEV.

With reference to Fig. 12, the vehicle 400 may be a wheeled vehicle, i.e. a vehicle 400having wheels 492. Only the wheels 492 on the left-hand side of the vehicle 400 arevisible in Fig. 12. lt is to be understood that the vehicle 400 may have fewer or morewheels than what is shown in Fig. 12. The vehicle 400 may comprise a powertrain 494, for example configured for one of an EV, HEV and BEV.

With reference to Fig. 12, the vehicle 400 comprises one or more of the group of: adevice 100, 200 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments, aconnection arrangement 300, 600 according to any one of the above-mentionedembodiments and a vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 according to any one of theabove-mentioned embodiments. The vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 (VCB) maybe electrically connectable to one or more electric batteries. ln general, the electricpower, or the electric current, of a vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 is transferredat a high voltage, for example above 60 V, such as above 400 V.

By means of the embodiments of the device 100, 200 and/or the connectionarrangement 300, 600 disclosed above, a busbar connection (for example busbar-to-busbar, or busbar-to-box), which is sufficiently watertight and sufficiently dust-tight andprovides sufficient electrical insulation, is provided, especially for busbars to be usedin a vehicle high voltage system (VCB) 500 of a vehicle 400 as disclosed above, for example. As mentioned above, the vehicle high voltage system 500, 700 is configuredto transfer the electric power, or the electric current, at a high voltage, for exampleabove 60 V, such as above 400 V. However, other applications of the embodiments ofthe device 100, 200 and the embodiments of the connection arrangement 300, 600, in addition to an application to a vehicle electrical system, are possible.

By means of the embodiments of the device 100, 200 and/or the connectionarrangement 300, 600 disclosed above, a busbar connection may be provided whichfulfils one or more of the requirements of lP6K9K, lP6K7 and IP6K6K of the lngressProtection (IP) rating system and/or requirements for a VCB of a vehicle 400, such asISO 6469/3.

The present invention is not limited to the above described embodiments. lnstead, thepresent invention relates to, and encompasses all different embodiments beingincluded within the scope of the appended independent claim.

Claims

1. A device (100; 200) comprising an interface (102) for providing an electricalconnection (104) between a first conductor (106) and a second conductor (108) andfor providing an electrical connection (110) between a third conductor (112) and afourth conductor (114), the interface (102) comprising a plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b), and a holder (120; 220) for holding the plurality of electrically conductive members(116a,116b), wherein the electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members (116a, 116b) are spaced apart from one another, wherein a first electrically conductive member (116a) of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members (116a, 116b) is configured for electrical contact withthe first conductor (106) and the second conductor (108), and wherein a second electrically conductive member (116b) of the plurality ofelectrically conductive members (116a, 116b) is configured for electrical contact withthe third conductor (112) and the fourth conductor (114).

2. A device (100; 200) according to claim 1, wherein the first conductor (106) comprises or consists of any one of: a firstbusbar (113) and a first electrical cable (115), and wherein the third conductor (112) comprises or consists of any one of: a second busbar (117) and a second electrical cable (119).

3. A device (100; 200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first electricallyconductive member (116a) is attachable to the first conductor (106), and wherein thesecond electrically conductive member (116b) is attachable to the third conductor(112).

4. A device (100; 200) according to claim 3,wherein the first electrically conductive member (1 16a) comprises one or morethreaded holes (138a) for the attachment to one or more of: the first conductor (106) and the second conductor (108), and wherein the second electrically conductive member (116b) comprises one ormore threaded holes (138b) for the attachment to one or more of: the third conductor(112) and the fourth conductor (114).

5. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein theholder (120; 220) forms a plurality of through holes (122), wherein each through hole(122) of the plurality of through holes (122) is compiementary to one (116a, 116b) ofthe plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b), and wherein eachthrough hole (122) of the plurality of through holes (122) holds one (116a, 116b) of theplurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b).

6. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein theplurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) and the holder (120; 220) form a single unit.

7. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein eachelectrically conductive member (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers (116a, 116b) comprises an electrically conductive pin (118a, 118b).

8. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein eachelectrically conductive member (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers (116a, 116b) has one of: o a circular cross-section; and o an oval cross-section.

9. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein thedevice (100; 200) comprises one or more first sealings (142) surrounding one or moreof the electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electricallyconductive members (116a, 116b), and wherein the first sealing (142) is configured toseal between the holder (120; 220) and one or more of: o the first conductor (106); and o the third conductor (112).

10. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein eachelectrically conductive member (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electrically conductivemembers (116a, 116b) is provided with a second sealing (144) surrounding one (116a,116b) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b), and wherein thesecond sealing (144) is configured to sea| between the holder (120; 220) and one(116a, 116b) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b).

11. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, whereinthe electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) of the plurality of electricallyconductive members (116a, 116b) are electrically insulated from one another.

12. A device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 11, whereinthe holder (120; 220) electrically insulates the electrically conductive members (116a,116b) of the plurality of electrically conductive members (116a, 116b) from oneanother.

13. A connection arrangement (300; 600) comprising the device (100; 200)according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the connection arrangement (300;600) comprises the first and third conductors (106, 112).

14. A connection arrangement (300; 600) according to c|aim 13, wherein theconnection arrangement (300; 600) comprises the second and fourth conductors (108,114).

15. A connection arrangement (300; 600) according to c|aim 13 or 14, wherein theconnection arrangement (300; 600) comprises a casing (140; 640) which at least partlyhouses one or more of the first and third conductors (106, 112).

16. A vehicle (400) comprising one or more of the group of: o a device (100; 200) according to any one of the claims 1 to 12; and o a connection arrangement (300; 600) according to any one of the claims 13 to15.