WO2017061457A1 - Switch element - Google Patents

Abstract

This switch element safely opens or short-circuits an electric circuit in response to abnormalities such as wetting with water or leakage from a battery. This switch element is provided with one or multiple conductors 2 which are connected to an external circuit, a reaction unit 3 which, by contacting a liquid, conducts or blocks electricity through the conductor 2, and a casing 4 which houses the reaction unit 3. The casing 4 has an introduction port 5 for guiding a liquid onto the reaction unit 3.

Description

Switch element

The present invention relates to a switch element that opens or short-circuits an electric circuit in response to liquid intrusion. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-199817 filed on Oct. 7, 2015 in Japan. This application is incorporated herein by reference. Is done.

In recent years, lithium ion secondary batteries have been adopted in many mobile phones, notebook PCs, and the like. Lithium ion secondary batteries have a high energy density, so in order to ensure the safety of users and electronic devices, a battery pack generally includes a number of protection circuits such as overcharge protection and overdischarge protection. In this case, the battery pack has a function of shutting off input / output of the battery pack. However, when the positive / negative electrode insulation fitting portion of the battery corrodes due to water wetting, the pressure inside the battery leaks, and there is a risk of causing a fire accident without the safety valve functioning properly.

JP-A-11-144695 JP 2000-162081 A

Attaching a sticker that detects wet traces against water wetting and issuing a warning (see, for example, Patent Document 1) does not limit the use of the battery, so migration due to water on the circuit board There is a risk of circuit malfunction due to (insulation deterioration) or a short circuit. Moreover, there is a possibility that the same defect as described above may occur even when the electrolyte leaks due to battery abnormality.

Also, as a countermeasure against water wetting of electronic equipment, a sensor that detects a liquid such as water is provided, and a protection circuit is activated by a signal transmitted from the sensor that detects water wetting. For example, a water leak sensor has been proposed that includes a detection unit composed of a pair of electrodes arranged opposite to each other on an insulating substrate (see, for example, Patent Document 2). In this water leak sensor, when the electrodes of the detection unit become wet, a signal is input to the control circuit due to leakage between the terminal units, and the operation of the device is controlled. In other words, this water wetting sensor has an operating condition for the inflow of liquid to the detection unit. It is also necessary to ensure the reliability as a sensor by preventing malfunctions except in a wet state where it is not necessary to operate the circuit.

The present invention has been proposed in view of such a conventional situation, and provides a switching element that can safely open or short an electric circuit against an abnormality such as water wetting or leakage from a battery. The purpose is to do.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a switching element according to the present invention includes one or more conductors connected to an external circuit, a reaction unit that conducts or blocks the conductor by contact with liquid, A housing in which a reaction part is built, and the housing is provided with an introduction port for introducing a liquid into the reaction part.

According to the present invention, the housing is provided with an inlet for introducing the liquid to the reaction portion, so that when the liquid becomes wet, the liquid is efficiently taken into the housing and held in the reaction portion, and the conductor is turned on or off. Can be made.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a switch element to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuse element before electrolytic corrosion. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a fuse element connected as a positive electrode and an electrode connected as a negative electrode. FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuse element after electrolytic corrosion. FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing a reaction part of a fuse element and an electrode each having a through hole, and FIG. 5B shows a reaction part formed using the fuse element and an electrode having a through hole. It is a perspective view shown. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a reaction portion provided with a separator between the fuse element and the electrode. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a reaction unit in which a plurality of fuse elements are arranged in parallel at predetermined intervals and electrodes are arranged between the fuse elements. FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of a reaction unit in which a plurality of fuse elements are arranged in parallel at a predetermined interval, and the number of electrodes is one more than the number of fuse elements, and the reaction elements are superimposed on both sides of each fuse element. It is a perspective view. 9A and 9B are perspective views showing a casing of the switch element, in which FIG. 9A shows a state in which an introduction port is formed on the top surface, FIG. 9B shows a state in which a plurality of introduction ports are formed on the top surface, and FIG. ) Shows a state where inlets are formed on the top and side surfaces, and (D) shows a state where a plurality of inlets are formed on the top and side surfaces. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a switch element using a cylindrical casing. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a switch element using a housing in which a discharge port is formed. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element in which a discharge port is provided at the same height as the position where the reaction part is provided. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element using a housing in which a slit-shaped inlet and a slit-shaped outlet are formed. 14A and 14B are diagrams showing a switch element using a casing in which an introduction groove is formed, in which FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view and FIG. 14B is an external perspective view. 15A and 15B are diagrams showing a switch element using a casing in which a plurality of introduction ports and introduction grooves are formed, where FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view and FIG. 15B is an external perspective view. FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element using a casing in which an introduction groove that gradually narrows down inside the reaction portion is provided, and FIG. 16B shows a water-soluble structure in the introduction groove. It is sectional drawing which shows the switch element sealed with the insulating material. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a switch element using a housing in which an introduction port is formed at a height corresponding to the position of the conductor and the reaction part. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element using a casing in which a water repellent treatment part is formed in a place other than the reaction part. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element provided with a storage unit that stores liquid at a position corresponding to the reaction unit. FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a switch element using a casing whose introduction port is sealed with a water-soluble insulating material. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a reaction unit in which a fuse element and an electrode are disposed adjacent to each other, the fuse element and the electrode are face-to-face in the reaction unit, and the interval is relatively narrowed. ) Is a perspective view, (B) is a plan view, and (C) is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the reaction unit in which the fuse element and the electrode are arranged adjacent to each other, the electrode tip is linearly opposed to the fuse element in the reaction unit, and the interval is relatively narrowed. , (A) is a perspective view, (B) is a cross-sectional view. FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a reaction portion in which a fuse element and an electrode are opposed to each other on a plurality of surfaces. FIG. 23A shows a configuration in which a curved portion surrounding both sides of the electrode and the bottom surface is formed on the fuse element. (B) shows a configuration in which a bent portion is formed on the fuse element so as to surround the both sides of the electrode and the bottom surface. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a reaction portion in which a coat layer made of a liquid-soluble material is formed on one surface facing an electrode fuse element. FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a switch element in which a water repellent treatment part is provided in a place other than the reaction part and its vicinity of the insulating substrate, and a water-absorbing heat generating material is provided in the vicinity of the reaction part. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating a switch element using a stranded wire as a conductor. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element using sponge metal as a conductor. FIG. 28A is an external perspective view showing an aggregate of conductive particles coated with a liquid-soluble material, and FIG. 28B shows a switch element using the aggregate shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing shown. FIG. 29 is an external perspective view showing an example in which a cylindrical outer conductor and an inner conductor made of a conductive material are used as a conductor. FIG. 30A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which an insulating coat layer made of a liquid-soluble material is formed on the inner surface of the outer conductor, and FIG. 30B shows an insulation made of a liquid-soluble material on the outer surface of the inner conductor. It is sectional drawing which shows the state in which the coat layer was formed. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where an insulating film made of a liquid-soluble material is interposed between the outer conductor and the inner conductor. FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch element using a pair of metal terminal pieces as a conductor. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a connection or separation state of a pair of metal terminal pieces, (A) is a state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are in contact before the insulating material is in contact with the liquid, and (B) is an insulation. A state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are separated as the material expands in contact with the liquid is shown. FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a connection or separation state of a pair of metal terminal pieces, (A) is a state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are in contact before the insulating material is in contact with the liquid, and (B) is an insulation. A state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are separated from each other when the material comes into contact with the liquid and contracts, dissolves, softens, or the like. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing a connection or separation state of a pair of metal terminal pieces, (A) is a state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are in contact before the insulating material is in contact with the liquid, and (B) is an insulation. A state in which the pair of metal terminal pieces are separated by the material being in contact with the liquid to be melted or softened is shown. 36A and 36B are cross-sectional views showing a switch element to which a pair of lead wires serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles, where FIG. 36A shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. 36B shows a state after the liquid has entered. Shows the state. FIG. 37 is an external perspective view of the switch element shown in FIG. 38A and 38B are cross-sectional views showing a switch element in which a pair of metal terminal pieces serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles, where FIG. 38A shows a state before liquid intrusion and FIG. 38B shows liquid intrusion. Shown later. 39A and 39B are cross-sectional views showing a switch element to which a pair of lead wires serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles, where FIG. 39A shows a state before the liquid enters, and FIG. 39B shows a state after the liquid enters. Shows the state. 40A and 40B are cross-sectional views showing a switch element having a tapered introduction groove, where FIG. 40A shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. 40B shows a state after the liquid has entered. FIG. 41 is a diagram showing a switch element using a sheet-like insulating material that expands by contact with a liquid, and FIG. 41 (A) is a plan view showing an upper half of a housing provided with the sheet-like insulating material. (B) is a top view which shows the lower half of the housing | casing in which the metal terminal piece used as a conductor and the electroconductive particle were provided. 42 is a cross-sectional view of the switch element shown in FIG. 41, in which (A) shows a state before the liquid has entered, and (B) shows a state after the liquid has entered. 43A and 43B are cross-sectional views showing a switch element to which a pair of lead wires serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles, where FIG. 43A shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. 43B shows a state after the liquid has entered. Shows the state. FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing a switch element to which a pair of external connection electrodes serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles arranged in a lattice pattern. FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a switch element in which conductive particles are aggregated by a conductive material in contact with a liquid in the switch element shown in FIG. 44 and the conductive path is cut off, (A) is an external perspective view, and (B). FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the inside of the housing. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the switch element shown in FIG. FIG. 47 is a perspective view showing a switch element to which a pair of external connection electrodes serving as conductors are connected via conductive particles arranged in a linear form, (A) is a state before liquid intrusion, ( B) shows the state after the liquid has entered. 48A and 48B are diagrams showing a switch element using a lead terminal as a conductor, wherein FIG. 48A is an external perspective view, and FIG. 48B is an exploded perspective view. 49 is a perspective view showing the inside of the switch element shown in FIG. 48. FIG. 49A shows a state before the liquid enters, and FIG. 49B shows a state after the liquid enters. 50A and 50B are perspective views showing the switch element that conducts between the opened lead terminals. FIG. 50A shows a state before the liquid enters, and FIG. 50B shows a state after the liquid enters. 51A and 51B are perspective views showing a switch element that conducts between the opened lead terminals. FIG. 51A is an external perspective view, and FIG. 51B is an exploded perspective view. 52 is a perspective view showing the inside of the switch element shown in FIG. 51, in which (A) shows a state before the liquid enters, and (B) shows a state after the liquid enters. FIG. 53 is a perspective view showing another switch element that conducts between the opened lead terminals, (A) is an external perspective view, and (B) is an exploded perspective view. 54A and 54B are perspective views showing the inside of the switch element shown in FIG. 53, where FIG. 54A shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. 54B shows a state after the liquid has entered. FIG. 55 is a perspective view showing a switch element that forms a conductive layer on a side surface of an insulating material and breaks off both ends of the conductive layer when the insulating material in contact with the liquid expands. FIG. The state before entering, (B) shows the state after entering the liquid. 56 is a cross-sectional view of the switch element shown in FIG. 55, where FIG. 56 (A) shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. 56 (B) shows a state after the liquid has entered. FIGS. 57A and 57B are perspective views of a switch element in which a conductive layer is formed of a conductive wire that spirals around the side surface of an insulating material. FIG. 57A shows a state before the liquid has entered, and FIG. Shows the state after entering. FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a switch element to which a disconnected conductive layer formed on a side surface of an insulating material is connected by expansion of the insulating material in contact with the liquid, and FIG. (B) shows the state after the liquid has entered. FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of the switch element shown in FIG. 58, where (A) shows a state before entering the liquid and (B) shows a state after entering the liquid. FIG. 60 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a switch element using a conductor made of a thermistor. 61 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration example of the switch element shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, the switch element to which the present invention is applied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Further, the drawings are schematic, and the ratio of each dimension may be different from the actual one. Specific dimensions should be determined in consideration of the following description. Moreover, it is a matter of course that portions having different dimensional relationships and ratios are included between the drawings.

The switch element to which the present invention is applied is incorporated in an external circuit such as a battery circuit or an alarm circuit, and when a wet state such as submergence or liquid leakage occurs, the battery circuit is shut off or the alarm circuit or protection circuit is turned on. Is to do. As shown in FIG. 1, the switch element 1 includes one or a plurality of conductors 2 connected to an external circuit, a reaction unit 3 that conducts or cuts off the conductors 2 by contact with a liquid, and a reaction unit 3 The housing 4 is provided with an introduction port 5 that guides the liquid to the reaction unit 3.

[conductor]
The conductor 2 is connected to a terminal portion provided in an external circuit in which the switch element 1 is incorporated. For example, a patterned electrode or a metal formed on an insulating substrate built in the casing 4 of the switch element 1 Terminals, lead terminals, fuse elements, and the like can be used. The conductor 2 may be configured by a plurality of electrodes formed on the insulating substrate and fuse elements and lead wires connected across the plurality of electrodes.

The switch element 1 can be connected to a terminal portion of an external circuit by connecting the connection end of the conductor 2 to the outside of the housing 4 or by connecting to an external connection terminal (not shown). Further, the switch element 1 is electrically connected or opened in the normal state, and when the liquid comes into contact with the reaction part 3, the conduction state is opened by the action of the reaction part 3, or the open state is made conductive. The

[Reaction part]
The reaction unit 3 irreversibly conducts or cuts off the conductor 2 by contact with the liquid that has entered the housing 4, and the form of the conductor 2 and the switch element 1 block or open the external circuit. There are various configurations depending on the purpose.

In the following, as illustrated in FIG. 2, as an example of the conductor 2, a flat plate-like fuse element 11 that is connected to an external circuit in a normal state and is opened when it becomes wet is used and has a smaller ionization tendency than the fuse element 11. The case where the reaction part 3 is formed by disposing the electrode 12 made of metal so as to face one surface of the central part of the fuse element 11 will be described.

This reaction unit 3 causes the fuse element 11 to galvanize when liquid is present between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 when the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are arranged close to each other, in the event of an abnormality such as water wetting or leakage from the battery. As a result, the electrical resistance increases and the rated current value decreases, so that the electrical circuit can be safely opened by self-interruption by the energization current to the fuse element 11.

The fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are close to each other so that water can enter, and the distance is preferably 0.01 mm to 10 mm. In addition, the smaller the distance between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the greater the electric field strength and the stronger the electric erosion action. In addition, it is easier to introduce water between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 by capillary action. In order to efficiently open the electric circuit, the distance to the electrode 12 is more preferably 0.01 to 1 mm.

The fuse element 11 has a predetermined rated current value and blows when a current exceeding the rated current value is energized. The fuse element 11 is preferably composed mainly of any one selected from aluminum, iron, nickel, tin, and lead. In the present specification, the main component refers to a component that is 50 wt% or more based on the total mass of the material.

The electrode 12 is disposed to face one surface of the central portion of the fuse element 11. Note that the electrode 12 may be disposed opposite to both surfaces of the center portion of the fuse element 11 so that the amount of the material that is electrically eroded by the fuse element 11 is increased.

Further, the electrode 12 is made of a metal having a smaller ionization tendency than the fuse element, and it is preferable that any one selected from gold, platinum, silver, copper and palladium is a main component. Thereby, when water permeates between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the fuse element 11 made of a base metal is ionized (corroded) as a positive electrode, and the fuse element 11 is thinned or a pinhole is generated. As a result, the conductor resistance of the fuse element 11 increases, and the rated current value can be decreased.

3 and 4, it is preferable that the fuse element 11 is connected as a positive electrode and the electrode 12 is connected as a negative electrode. Thereby, the electrolytic corrosion reaction can be promoted, and the rated current value of the fuse element 11 can be quickly reduced.

That is, the switch element 1 is composed of a fuse element 11 connected in series to a DC power source as a positive electrode and a metal that is arranged close to the fuse element 11 and has a lower ionization tendency than the fuse element 11 and is connected as a negative electrode. A cutoff circuit including the electrode 12 is configured. In addition, the switch element 1 includes a first terminal and a second terminal for energizing the fuse element 11, and a third terminal connecting the electrode 12 as a negative electrode, and the first terminal and the second terminal. Are connected in series to the positive current path, and the third terminal is connected to the negative electrode or grounded.

3 and 4 are perspective views schematically showing fuse elements before and after electrolytic corrosion, respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, the fuse element 11 before electrolytic corrosion maintains a short shape. When water intrudes between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the fuse element 11 made of a base metal is ionized (corroded) as a positive electrode as shown in FIG. May occur. For this reason, the conductor resistance of the fuse element 11 increases, and the rated current value decreases. Although heat and electrolyte between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 may evaporate due to heat generation due to an increase in the conductor resistance, the rated current value is reduced, so that the self-current due to the energizing current to the fuse element 11 decreases. It can be shut off and the external circuit can be opened safely.

[Through hole / recess / projection]
Moreover, the reaction part 3 may provide one or several through-holes, a recessed part, or a convex part in one or both of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12. FIG. FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views showing the conductor 2 and the reaction part 3 in which the through-hole 13 is formed in the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 as an example. As a result, the switch element 1 can preferentially introduce and hold the liquid that has flowed into the housing 4 into the reaction unit 3, and the amount of liquid retained by the through-hole 13 increases the fuse element. The contact area between the electrode 11 and the electrode 12 is increased, and the electroerosion action of the fuse element 11 can be promoted. Furthermore, since the melt sectional area is reduced by forming the through hole 13 in the fuse element 11, the fuse element 11 can be blown more quickly.

Similarly, in the case where a concave portion or a convex portion is provided, the switch element 1 can preferentially introduce and hold the liquid that has flowed into the housing 4 into the reaction portion 3. By increasing the amount of liquid retained, the contact area between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 increases, and the electrolytic corrosion action of the fuse element 11 can be promoted.

[Separator]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, a separator 14 is preferably provided between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12. The separator 14 preferably has a mesh shape or a porous shape. Thereby, the separator 14 can secure liquid collecting properties and water retention properties that collect and hold liquid such as water and electrolytic solution between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12. The separator 14 is preferably made of an insulator. Thereby, the separator 14 can suppress a direct short circuit between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12.

Also, the separator preferably carries an electrolyte such as NaCl. Thereby, the electrical conductivity of water and electrolyte solution can be improved, and electric corrosion can be promoted.

Furthermore, the separator 14 may have liquid solubility that dissolves in a liquid such as water or an electrolytic solution. In this case, the separator 14 preferably has an insulating property in addition to the liquid solubility. Accordingly, the separator 14 ensures a clearance between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 before the liquid enters, prevents a short circuit, dissolves when the liquid enters, and allows more liquid to be removed from the fuse element 11. It can introduce | transduce between the electrodes 12, and can accelerate | stimulate an electrolytic corrosion effect | action.

Examples of liquid-soluble materials include natural polymers such as agar and gelatin, semi-synthetic polymers such as cellulose and starch, and synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol. These shrink or dissolve when contacted with a liquid. In addition, since the property which does not melt | dissolve but expand | swells will become strong when it becomes high molecular weight, it is preferable to adjust and use a polymerization degree. In addition, when a water-soluble solid material such as sugar cubes is used as the liquid-soluble material, dissolution or volume is reduced by contact with the liquid.

In addition, in the case of a switch element that operates in response to an electrolyte leakage, assuming an electrolyte such as ethylene carbonate filled in the battery cell as a liquid, the liquid-soluble material includes ABS, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, or Saturated polyesters such as PET, PTT, and PEN can be used. Since these liquid-soluble materials also have a high molecular weight, the dissolution rate decreases and the reaction rate may decrease as the switch element 1. Therefore, when priority is given to the reaction rate, it is preferable to adjust the polymerization degree and use it.

Further, the separator 14 disposed between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 may be a water-absorbing or hygroscopic insulator. Further, an insulator made of sol, gel, or solid may be disposed between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 so that conductivity is exhibited by the liquid. Further, when an electrolyte made of sol or gel enters between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the electroerosion action of the fuse element 11 may be exhibited.

[Laminated structure]
In addition, the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 are not limited to the configuration example described above. For example, a plurality of fuse elements to be the conductors 2 are arranged in parallel and electrodes are arranged between the fuse elements. 3 may be formed. In FIG. 7, a plurality of fuse elements 11 formed in a flat plate shape as the conductor 2 are arranged in a superimposed manner at predetermined intervals in parallel, and electrodes 12 formed in a flat plate shape are arranged between the fuse elements 11. It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the reaction part 3 formed by these.

The reaction part 3 has a laminated structure in which the fuse elements 11 and the electrodes 12 are alternately laminated three by three. Each fuse element 11 is connected in parallel, and each electrode 12 is also connected in parallel.

By arranging a plurality of fuse elements 11 in parallel in this way, the rated current can be increased, and the electrolytic corrosion of the fuse elements 11 when liquid enters between the fuse elements 11 and the electrodes 12 is promoted. be able to.

As shown in FIG. 8, the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 include a plurality of plate-shaped fuse elements 11 that are arranged in parallel at a predetermined interval, and the plate-shaped electrodes 12 are fused. One more than the number of the elements 11 may be arranged between the fuse elements 11 and may be overlapped on both sides of each fuse element 11.

The reaction unit 3 can further promote the electric corrosion of the fuse element 11 by interposing a liquid between both surfaces of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 by making the electrodes 12 face the both surfaces of each fuse element 11. .

Moreover, the reaction part 3 may provide the 1 or several through-hole 13 mentioned above, the recessed part, or the convex part in one or both of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 in the laminated structure shown in FIG. 7, FIG. .

Furthermore, the reaction unit 3 may arrange the separator 14 described above between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 in the stacked structure shown in FIGS. Thereby, while suppressing the direct short circuit between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the retainability of water and electrolyte solution can be ensured. At this time, the separator 14 may be a mesh or a porous material, or an insulating material. Further, the separator 14 may carry an electrolyte such as NaCl to improve the electric conductivity of water or an electrolytic solution and promote electric corrosion. Further, as described above, the separator 14 may be a water-absorbing or hygroscopic insulator. Further, an insulator made of sol, gel, or solid may be disposed between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 so that conductivity is exhibited by the liquid. Further, when an electrolyte made of sol or gel enters between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the electroerosion action of the fuse element 11 may be exhibited.

The conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 can adopt various forms as described above. Other embodiments of the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 will be described in detail later.

[Case 1]
The casing 4 of the switch element 1 can be formed of an insulating member such as various engineering plastics and ceramics. The switch element 1 is provided with a housing 4 to protect the conductor 2 and the reaction part 3 from mechanical disturbances received from the outside, and the fuse element used as the conductor 2 is accompanied by the occurrence of arc discharge. When fusing, it is possible to prevent the molten metal from being scattered around.

The housing 4 is provided with an introduction port 5 that guides the liquid to the reaction unit 3. The switch element 1 irreversibly conducts or blocks the conductor 2 when the liquid flows into the reaction unit 3 through the introduction port 5 provided in the housing 4.

The housing 4 is composed of a polyhedron, for example, as shown in FIG. 9A, and one introduction port 5 is provided on one surface. When the switch element 1 is formed as a chip component to be mounted on a circuit board on which an external circuit is formed, the introduction port 5 is preferably provided on the top surface 4a opposite to the mounting surface of the housing 4. By providing the introduction port 5 on the top surface 4a, the liquid can be efficiently taken into the housing 4 and held in the reaction unit 3 when the water gets wet, and the conductor 2 can be turned on or off. Of course, the housing 4 may have the introduction port 5 formed on a surface other than the top surface 4a, for example, the side surface 4b. Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, the housing 4 may have a plurality of inlets 5 formed on the top surface 4a or a plurality of inlets 5 formed on the side surface 4b. The housing 4 can make it easier to introduce the liquid into the reaction unit 3 by providing a plurality of inlets 5.

Moreover, the housing | casing 4 consists of a polyhedron, as shown, for example in FIG.9 (C), You may provide the inlet 5 in several surfaces, for example, the top | upper surface 4a and the side surface 4b. Moreover, as shown to FIG 9 (D), the housing | casing 4 may form the 1 or several introduction port 5 in a some surface, respectively.

Further, the casing 4 may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and an arbitrary number of introduction ports 5 may be formed at arbitrary positions. FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of the switch element 1 in which the casing 4 is formed in a cylindrical shape and a plurality of inlets 5 are formed over the entire circumference. By forming the casing 4 into a hollow columnar shape or a prismatic shape, the introduction port 5 can be formed without being influenced by the surface and angle according to the arrangement of the switch element 1, the liquid intrusion route, and the like. Note that the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 10 is formed such that the conductor 2 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the housing 4.

Further, the housing 4 may form a discharge port for discharging the liquid that has entered through the introduction port 5. FIG. 11 is an external perspective view showing the switch element 1 in which the introduction port 5 is formed in the top surface 4a of the polyhedral casing 4 and the discharge port 6 for discharging the liquid is formed in the side surface 4b. By forming the discharge port 6, a large amount of liquid enters the housing 4, whereby the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 are cooled, and the electric corrosion action and self-heating of the fuse element 11 are inhibited. It is possible to prevent the operation of the portion 3, the opening of the conductive state of the conductor 2, or the situation where the open state of conduction is inhibited.

Note that the discharge port 6 is preferably formed smaller than the introduction port 5. By making the discharge port 6 relatively small, it is possible to prevent the liquid that has entered the housing 4 from being excessively discharged and prevent the action of the reaction unit 3 and the opening or conduction of the conductor 2 from being delayed. it can.

Further, it is preferable that the discharge port is provided at the same height as the position where the reaction part 3 of the housing 4 is provided, or above the position where the reaction part 3 is provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the housing 4 is formed in a multi-face shape and is formed as a chip component mounted on a circuit board, the discharge port 6 is connected to the reaction part 3 on the side surface 4b of the housing 4. It is preferable to be provided at the same height as or above the provided position. As a result, the liquid that has entered the housing 4 is drained from the reaction portion 3 and remains in the reaction portion 3, so that the action of the reaction portion 3 is ensured and the liquid in the housing 4 is retained. The conductor 2 and the reaction part 3 are cooled by the liquid that has entered a large amount, and the action of the reaction part 3 such as the erosion action and self-heating of the fuse element 11 is inhibited, or the conduction state of the conductor 2 is released, or It is possible to prevent a situation where conduction in the open state is hindered.

The shape of the inlet 5 for introducing the liquid and the outlet 6 for discharging the liquid are not particularly limited, such as circular and rectangular. Moreover, you may form the inlet 5 and the discharge port 6 in slit shape, as shown in FIG. By forming the inlet 5 in a slit shape, the liquid can be introduced more extensively, and the reaction section 3 can be reacted quickly to open or conduct the conductor 2. Further, by forming the discharge port 6 in a slit shape, excess liquid that has entered the housing 4 can be quickly drained, and the action of the reaction unit 3, the opening of the conductor 2, or the progress of conduction is delayed. Can be prevented.

Further, the housing 4 may be provided with a slit-like introduction port 5 on the top surface 4 a and an introduction groove 7 for guiding the liquid to the reaction unit 3. As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the introduction groove 7 extends from the introduction port 5 in which the groove wall 7a is formed in the top surface 4a to the vicinity of the reaction section 3. Thereby, the casing 4 can be surely guided to the reaction unit 3 without the liquid that has entered the introduction port 5 flowing into a place other than the reaction unit 3. Further, the case 4 can prevent the liquid that has entered the introduction port 5 from escaping into the case 4 and delaying the opening or conduction of the conductor 2 by the reaction unit 3.

Further, as shown in FIG. 14B, the housing 4 may extend the introduction groove 7 to the side surface 4b and be continuous with the discharge port 6 formed on the side surface 4b. As a result, the housing 4 can efficiently guide the liquid that has entered from the inlet 5 to the reaction unit 3 and drain the excess liquid efficiently from the outlet 6.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, a plurality of introduction grooves 7 may be formed. By forming a plurality of introduction grooves 7, the liquid can be guided over the entire width of the reaction section 3.

Further, as shown in FIG. 16A, the introduction groove 7 may be gradually narrowed from the opening of the introduction port 5 facing the top surface 4a to the inside where the reaction unit 3 is provided. By narrowing the introduction groove 7 as it approaches the reaction unit 3, the liquid that has entered from the opening of the introduction port 5 can be efficiently guided to the reaction unit 3 by capillary action.

Further, as shown in FIG. 17, the switch element 1 may form the introduction port 5 or the introduction port 5 and the introduction groove 7 in the housing 4 according to the positions of the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3. The switch element 1 includes a plurality of fuse elements 11 and electrodes 12 stacked in parallel as in the configuration example of the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 shown in FIG. 7, for example, and the positions of the fuse elements 11 and electrodes 12 on the side surface 4b. Alternatively, the same number of introduction ports 5 as the fuse elements 11 or the same number of introduction ports 5 and introduction grooves 7 as the fuse elements 11 may be formed at the same intervals as the fuse elements 11.

By forming the introduction port 5 and the like at a position corresponding to the position of the reaction unit 3, the switch element 1 can efficiently guide a large amount of liquid from the introduction port 5 to the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3. The reaction of the part 3 can be performed efficiently, and conduction or opening of the conductor 2 can be promoted.

Further, the switch element 1 may perform water repellent treatment at a place other than the reaction unit 3 to guide the liquid to the reaction unit 3. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the switch element 1 may form the water repellent treatment portion 16 in which the water repellent treatment is performed on the introduction port 5 or the groove wall 7 a of the introduction port 5 and the introduction groove 7. The water repellent treatment part 16 can be formed by a known method such as application of a fluorine coating agent, solder paste coating, or the like.

Thereby, the switch element 1 can efficiently guide the liquid that has entered through the introduction port 5 to the reaction unit 3. In addition, by applying a water repellent treatment to the introduction port 5 and the introduction groove 7, a malfunction is not caused because a small amount of liquid is repelled and not entered into the housing 4 except in a wet state where the switch element 1 should be operated. It is possible to prevent and secure the reliability as a sensor.

Further, the switch element 1 may perform a water repellent treatment on the inner wall of the housing 4. Also by applying a water repellent treatment to the inner wall of the housing 4, the liquid that has entered the housing 4 can be efficiently guided to the reaction unit 3, and the reaction unit 3 can be operated quickly.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the switch element 1 may be provided with a storage portion 8 for storing the liquid that has entered the housing 4. The storage unit 8 is formed in a concave shape so as to surround the periphery of the reaction unit 3 and is formed integrally with the housing 4 or can be formed by arranging a concave member on the bottom surface of the housing 4. When the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 stores the liquid in the storage unit 8, thereby filling the periphery of the reaction unit 3 with the liquid. Thereby, the switch element 1 can make the reaction part 3 react efficiently even if the amount of liquid that has entered the housing 4 is small. For this reason, the switch element 1 can form the discharge port 6 below the reaction part 3 to discharge excess liquid.

In addition, the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 19 is configured to bend the conductor 2 and pass it through the storage portion 8, and connect both ends of the conductor 2 to the external connection electrode 10 facing the bottom surface of the housing 4. ing.

Further, as shown in FIG. 20, the switch element 1 may be closed by sticking a sheet body formed of a water-soluble sealing material 9 that dissolves the introduction port 5 with a liquid to the top surface 4a. Further, as shown in FIG. 16B, the switch element 1 may close the introduction groove 7 with a water-soluble sealing material 9 that dissolves with a liquid. Examples of the water-soluble sealing material 9 include natural polymers such as agar and gelatin, semi-synthetic polymers such as cellulose and starch, and synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol. These shrink or dissolve when contacted with a liquid. In addition, since the property which does not melt | dissolve but expand | swells will become strong when it becomes high molecular weight, it is preferable to adjust and use a polymerization degree. In addition, when a water-soluble solid material such as sugar cubes is used as the liquid-soluble material, dissolution or volume is reduced by contact with the liquid.

In addition, assuming a liquid electrolyte such as ethylene carbonate filled in a battery cell as a liquid, in the case of a switch element that operates in response to an electrolyte leakage, the water-soluble sealing material 9 includes ABS, polyacrylonitrile, Polyvinylidene fluoride or saturated polyester such as PET, PTT, PEN, or the like can be used. Since these water-soluble materials also have a high molecular weight, the dissolution rate decreases and the reaction rate may decrease as the switch element 1. Therefore, when priority is given to the reaction rate, it is preferable to adjust the polymerization degree.

Since the introduction port 5 and the introduction groove 7 are closed with the water-soluble sealing material 9, a small amount of liquid is repelled and not allowed to enter the switch element 1 except in a wet state where the switch element 1 should be operated. The operation can be prevented and the reliability as a sensor can be secured.

[Example of reaction unit configuration]
As described above, the switch element 1 can adopt various forms for the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3. Hereinafter, the structural example of the conductor 2 and the reaction part 3 is demonstrated. Note that the conductor 2 and the reaction unit 3 according to the present invention are not limited to the configurations described below, and various changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[Configuration example 1]
In the switch element 1, the interval in the vicinity region of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 constituting the reaction unit 3 may be narrower than the interval in other regions. For example, as shown in FIGS. 21A to 21C, the switch element 1 uses a rectangular plate-like fuse element 11 as the conductor 2, and a substantially plate-like electrode 12 is disposed adjacent to the inside of the housing 4. At the same time, the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are overlapped in the reaction section 3 so that the distance is relatively narrowed.

The electrode 12 has an overlapping portion 12b that protrudes on the fuse element 11 at a substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction. In the switch element 1, the fuse element 11 and the overlapping portion 12 b of the electrode 12 face each other and are disposed close to each other, thereby forming a reaction portion 3 that collects liquid and causes the fuse element 11 to erode.

The overlapping portion 12b is supported by a support portion 15 provided in the housing 4 or the like so as to face the fuse element 11 and has a predetermined interval at which liquid can enter and hold. The distance between the fuse element 11 and the overlapping portion 12b is preferably 0.01 mm to 10 mm. In addition, the smaller the distance between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, the greater the electric field strength and the stronger the electric erosion action. In addition, it is easier to introduce water between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 by capillary action. In order to open the electric circuit efficiently, it is more preferable that the distance between the fuse element 11 and the overlapping portion 12b is 0.01 to 1 mm.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B, the switch element 1 has the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 disposed adjacent to each other, and the tip portion 12c of the electrode 12 is bent and supported by the support portion 15. Thus, the tip 12c may be linearly opposed to the surface of the fuse element 11 at a predetermined interval.

[Configuration example 2]
Further, as shown in FIG. 23A, the switch element 1 uses a substantially rectangular plate-like fuse element 11 as the conductor 2, and constitutes the reaction section 3 by arranging a substantially rod-shaped electrode 12 in the vicinity thereof. In this case, the fuse element 11 may be opposed to a plurality of surfaces of the electrode 12 by forming a curved portion 11c that is curved so as to surround both the side surfaces and the bottom surface of the electrode 12. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 23B, the switch element 1 is formed by forming a bent portion 11d in the fuse element 11 that is bent in a rectangular shape so as to surround the three sides of the electrode 12 and both sides. The fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 may be opposed to each other on a plurality of surfaces. The curved portion 11c or the bent portion 11d of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are opposed to each other with a predetermined narrowed space, so that liquid can enter and be held.

According to the reaction unit 3, the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are opposed to each other on a plurality of surfaces, so that the switch element 1 has an area for holding a liquid as compared with the configuration facing the one surface, and the fuse element 11 can be further promoted by fusing by electric corrosion.

The reaction part 3 may be opposed to the electrode 12 in a plurality of surfaces by forming a curved part or a bent part surrounding the three surfaces of the both sides and bottom of the fuse element 11.

[Configuration example 3]
Moreover, the switch element 1 may coat | cover the surface of at least one of the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 which comprises the reaction part 3 with the liquid-soluble material which melt | dissolves by touching liquids, such as water and electrolyte solution. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, the switch element 1 has a substantially rectangular plate-shaped fuse element 11 and a substantially rectangular plate-shaped electrode 12 opposed to each other, and a surface of the electrode 12 facing the fuse element 11 made of a liquid-soluble material. A coat layer 17 is formed.

As a result, the switch element 1 ensures a clearance between the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 in a state before the liquid enters, prevents a short circuit, dissolves when the liquid enters, and allows more liquid to be discharged. Can be introduced between the electrode 12 and the electrode 12 to promote the galvanic action.

As the liquid-soluble material constituting the coating layer 17, the same material as the separator 14 formed using the liquid-soluble material described above can be used.

Further, the coat layer 17 made of a liquid-soluble material may be formed on one surface side facing the electrode 12 of the fuse element 11, or may be formed on the surfaces facing the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12, respectively.

[Configuration Example 4]
Further, the switch element 1 may be provided with a water repellent region at a place other than the reaction part 3 or a place other than the reaction part 3 and its vicinity. For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the switch element 1 makes the substantially rectangular plate-like fuse element 11 and the substantially rectangular plate-like electrode 12 face each other, and the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 are arranged in the housing 4. It is mounted on the insulating substrate 20 provided. In the switch element 1, the water repellent treatment portion 18 is a region excluding the reaction portion 3 where the fuse element 11 and the electrode 12 of the insulating substrate 20 are close to each other and the vicinity thereof.

The water repellent portion 18 can be formed by a known method such as application of a fluorine coating agent or solder paste coating.

Thereby, the switch element 1 can guide the liquid that has entered the insulating substrate 20 to the reaction portion 3 that is a non-water-repellent region and the vicinity thereof, and can promote fusing due to electric corrosion of the fuse element 11.

[Configuration Example 5]
Further, the switch element 1 may be provided with a water-absorbing heat generating material 19 in the vicinity of the reaction unit 3. For example, in the configuration in which the fuse element 11 is arranged on the surface of the insulating substrate 20 shown in FIG. 25 and the electrode 12 is opposed to the switch element 1, the switch element 1 generates heat by absorbing water in a vicinity region where heat is transferred to the reaction unit 3. The material 19 to be placed is arranged. For example, quick lime can be used as the water absorption heat generating material 19.

In such a switch element 1, when a liquid enters the vicinity of the reaction unit 3, the water-absorbing heat generating material 19 absorbs moisture and generates heat, and the heat is transmitted to the reaction unit 3. The reaction part 3 is further improved in reaction efficiency due to the heat of the water-absorbing heat generating material 19, and can quickly galvanize and blow the fuse element 11.

As shown in FIG. 25, the switch element 1 is provided with a water-repellent treatment part 18 in a region excluding the reaction part 3 and its vicinity of the insulating substrate 20 and a water-absorbing heat generating material 19 is arranged in the vicinity of the reaction part 3. Alternatively, either the water repellent portion 18 or the water absorbing heat generating material 19 may be provided.

[Configuration Example 6]
In addition, the switch element 1 uses a known conductive member such as a lead wire or sponge metal as the conductor 2 and covers the conductor 2 as the reaction portion 3 so as to insulate from the external circuit and come into contact with the liquid. Alternatively, a liquid-soluble material 23 that dissolves and electrically connects the conductor 2 and the external circuit may be used.

The switch element 1 is insulated from an external circuit by covering the conductor 2 with a liquid-soluble material 23 constituting the reaction part 3 in a normal state. When the liquid contacts the reaction part 3, the conductor 2 The liquid-dissolvable material 23 that has been coated is dissolved, and the external circuit is conducted through the conductor 2.

For example, as the conductor 2, as shown in FIG. 26, a stranded wire 22 in which a pair of conductive wires 21 </ b> A and 21 </ b> B connected to an external circuit is twisted can be used. The conducting wires 21A and 21B are insulated from each other by being covered with the liquid-soluble material 23, respectively. The conducting wire 21A is connected to one free end of the energizing path of the external circuit connected to the switch element 1, and the conducting wire 21B is connected to the other free end of the energizing path. As a result, the external circuit is normally opened.

The reaction unit 3 is for irreversibly conducting the conductor 2 by coming into contact with a liquid, and includes a liquid-soluble material 23 that covers the conductor 2. The liquid-soluble material 23 can be any material that has insulating properties and dissolves when in contact with a liquid. For example, natural polymers such as agar and gelatin, semi-synthetic polymers such as cellulose and starch, polyvinyl Examples thereof include synthetic polymers such as alcohol. They are dissolved by contact with the liquid. In addition, since the property which does not melt | dissolve but expand | swells will become strong when it becomes high molecular weight, it is preferable to adjust and use a polymerization degree. Further, when a water-soluble solid material such as sugar cubes is used as the liquid-soluble material, it dissolves by contact with the liquid.

In addition, in the case of a switch element that operates in response to an electrolyte leakage assuming an electrolyte such as ethylene carbonate filled in a battery cell as a liquid, ABS, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride are used as the liquid-soluble material 23. Alternatively, saturated polyesters such as PET, PTT, and PEN can be used. Since these liquid-soluble materials 23 also have a high molecular weight, the dissolution rate decreases and the reaction rate of the switch element 1 may decrease. Therefore, when giving priority to the reaction rate, it is preferable to adjust the polymerization degree. .

The liquid-soluble material 23 covering the conductor 2 constitutes the reaction unit 3 in the housing 4. In the reaction unit 3, the liquid-soluble material 23 is dissolved by the liquid that has entered the housing 4 in the event of an abnormality such as water wetting or leakage from the battery, and the conductor 2 and the open end of the external circuit are brought into contact with each other. The circuit can be energized.

For example, the reaction unit 3 covers the pair of conductive wires 21A and 21B described above with the liquid-soluble material 23, and normally insulates to open the external circuit. And the reaction part 3 connects a pair of conducting wire 21A, 21B because the liquid which infiltrated in the housing | casing 4 contacts and melt | dissolves with the liquid-dissolvable material 23 at the time of abnormality, such as water wetting and the liquid leakage from a battery. Thus, the external circuit can be energized.

[Configuration Example 7]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 27, the switch element 1 may use a sponge metal 24 as the conductor 2. The sponge metal 24 is covered with the liquid-soluble material 23 and is provided on the housing 4 and mounted between the pair of external connection terminals 25a and 25b connected to the open end of the external circuit. The external connection terminals 25 a and 25 b are formed by, for example, metal terminals provided in the housing 4 or electrode patterns formed on the housing 4 or an insulating substrate provided in the housing 4.

In the switch element 1, the sponge metal 24 is mounted on the external connection terminals 25a and 25b via the liquid-soluble material 23 covering the surface, so that the external circuit is normally opened. The switch element 1 has a sponge metal 24 and an external connection terminal 25a when the liquid that has entered the housing 4 contacts and dissolves the liquid-soluble material 23 in the event of an abnormality such as water wetting or leakage from the battery. , 25b can be connected to energize the external circuit.

As the conductor 2, in addition to the sponge metal 24, a woven or non-woven fabric using conductive fibers, a porous body such as a metal mesh, or a metal sheet such as a metal foil is covered with a liquid-soluble material 23. You may let them.

[Configuration Example 8]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 28A, the switch element 1 may use an aggregate 28 of conductive particles 27 covered with a liquid-soluble material 23 as the conductor 2. The aggregate 28 maintains a substantially sheet shape or a substantially film shape by the liquid-soluble material 23 that coats the individual conductive particles 27, and as shown in FIG. 28 (B), the metal provided in the housing 4 It is mounted across the terminals and the external connection terminals 25a and 25b formed by the electrode pattern formed on the casing 4 or an insulating substrate disposed in the casing 4.

The switch element 1 is configured such that the aggregate 28 of the conductive particles 27 is mounted on the external connection terminals 25a and 25b via the liquid-soluble material 23 covering the surface, so that the external circuit is normally opened. ing. When the switch element 1 is in an abnormal state such as water wetting or leakage from the battery, the liquid that has entered the housing 4 comes into contact with the liquid-soluble material 23 and dissolves, so that the external connection terminals 25a and 25b are spread over. Both terminals can be connected via the continuous conductive particles 27, whereby an external circuit can be energized.

[Configuration Example 9]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 29, the switch element 1 uses, as the conductor 2, a cylindrical outer conductor 30 made of a conductive material and an inner conductor 31 made of a conductive material provided inside the outer conductor 30. May be. In the conductor 2 shown in FIG. 29, the external conductor 30 is connected to one open end of the external circuit, and the internal conductor 31 is connected to the other open end of the external circuit. The outer conductor 30 is, for example, a cylindrical conductor, and one or a plurality of openings 30a into which liquid enters the outer peripheral surface are formed. The outer conductor 30 may have any shape other than a cylindrical shape as long as the inner conductor 31 can be accommodated.

The inner conductor 31 may take any form disposed inside the outer conductor 30, and may be a prismatic shape, a sheet winding shape, a block shape or the like in addition to the columnar shape shown in FIG. The inner conductor 31 is movably held inside the outer conductor 30.

In the switch element 1, as shown in FIG. 30A, an insulating coat layer 30b is formed on the inner surface of the outer conductor 30 with the liquid-soluble material 23, so that the outer conductor 30 and the inner conductor 31 are normally insulated from each other. The external circuit is opened. In the switch element 1, the liquid that has entered the housing 4 enters the opening 30 a of the external conductor 30 and comes into contact with the liquid-soluble material 23 when there is an abnormality such as water wetting or liquid leakage from the battery. As a result, the insulating coat layer 30b is dissolved, and the external conductor 30 and the internal conductor 31 are electrically connected to each other, whereby the external circuit can be energized.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 30B, the switch element 1 may form the insulating coat layer 31a by applying the liquid-soluble material 23 to the outer surface of the inner conductor 31. The insulating coat layer 31a is dissolved by coming into contact with the liquid that has entered through the opening 30a of the external conductor 30, and the external conductor 30 and the internal conductor 31 can be electrically connected.

Further, as shown in FIG. 31, the switch element 1 may have an insulating film 32 made of a liquid-soluble material 23 interposed between the outer conductor 30 and the inner conductor 31. The insulating film 32 has a size and shape that shields at least the inner conductor 31 from the inner surface of the outer conductor 30, and insulates the outer conductor 30 from the inner conductor 31 in a normal state. The insulating film 32 is dissolved by contact with the liquid that has entered through the housing 4 and the opening 30a of the external conductor 30 in the event of an abnormality such as water wetting or leakage from the battery, and the external conductor 30 and the internal conductor The conductor 31 can be electrically connected.

[Configuration Example 10]
In addition, the switch element 1 uses a pair of lead wires, metal terminal pieces, and the like that are respectively connected to an external circuit as the conductor 2, and changes its state by contacting the liquid as the reaction unit 3. An insulating material 40 that opens or conducts an external circuit by irreversibly connecting or separating 2 may be used.

As the insulating material 40, any material that has insulating properties and changes its state such as expansion, contraction, softening, dissolution, and aggregation when in contact with a liquid can be used, and the pair of conductors 2 can be connected or separated. It is possible to select an optimum material from the state change required according to the method of the method, the shape of the pair of conductors 2 and the housing 4, and the like.

Examples of the candidate insulating material 40 include natural polymers such as agar and gelatin, semi-synthetic polymers such as cellulose and starch, and synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol. These are contracted or dissolved by contact with a liquid, and when they have a high molecular weight, they do not dissolve and expand. In addition, when a water-soluble solid material such as sugar cubes is used as the insulating material 40, the insulating material 40 is dissolved or reduced in volume by contact with the liquid.

In addition, in the case of a switch element that operates in response to an electrolyte leakage, assuming an electrolyte solution such as ethylene carbonate filled in a battery cell as a liquid, as the insulating material 40, ABS, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, or Saturated polyesters such as PET, PTT, and PEN can be used. Since these insulating materials 40 also have a high molecular weight, the dissolution rate decreases and the reaction rate of the switch element 1 may decrease. Therefore, when priority is given to the reaction rate, it is preferable to adjust the degree of polymerization.

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a switch element including a pair of conductors 2 and a reaction unit 3. In the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 32, first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 are used as the pair of conductors 2. The first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 are respectively connected to external connection electrodes 43a and 43b provided in the housing 4 and have contact portions 41a and 42a that are in contact with each other. The contact part 41a is urged so as to contact from above the contact part 42a. The external connection electrode 43a is connected to one open end of the external circuit, and the external connection electrode 43b is connected to the other open end of the external circuit. Thereby, the external circuit is electrically connected through the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 in a normal state.

Also, a reaction part 3 having an insulating material 40 that changes its state when it comes into contact with a liquid is disposed below the first metal terminal piece 41. The reaction part 3 of the switch element 1 uses an insulating material 40 that expands when it comes into contact with a liquid. As shown in FIG. 33A, the switch element 1 has a first insulating material 40 disposed below the first metal terminal piece 41 and the first state before the liquid enters the housing 4. The contact portion 41a of the metal terminal piece 41 is brought into contact with the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42, thereby energizing the external circuit. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting or leakage from the battery, the switch element 1 makes the insulating material 40 of the reaction unit 3 come into contact with the liquid as shown in FIG. And the first metal terminal piece 41 is pushed up. Thereby, the contact part 41a of the 1st metal terminal piece 41 is spaced apart from the contact part 42a of the 2nd metal terminal piece 42, and an external circuit is interrupted | blocked.

Note that the switch element 1 always uses the insulating material 40 that contracts or dissolves by contact with the liquid to always separate the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42, and the insulating material 40 contracts or dissolves to change the first. The first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 may be connected. In this case, the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 are always urged in the direction of contact, and the insulating material 40 is disposed below the first metal terminal piece 41, so that In a state before the liquid enters, the contact portion 41 a of the first metal terminal piece 41 is separated from the contact portion 42 a of the second metal terminal piece 42. When the liquid enters the housing 4, the insulating material 40 contracts or dissolves, whereby the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 are elastically restored, and the contact portions 41 a and 42 a are brought into contact with each other.

Further, as shown in FIG. 34, the first metal terminal piece 41 is biased in a direction in which the contact portion 41a is always separated from the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42, and in the normal state, the insulating material 40 You may make it contact with the 2nd metal terminal piece 42 by pressing. The insulating material 40 is made of a material that contracts, dissolves, softens, etc. when it comes into contact with a liquid, and is disposed above the first metal terminal piece 41.

As shown in FIG. 34 (A), the switch element 1 has a contact portion when the first metal terminal piece 41 is pressed against the insulating material 40 in a state before the liquid enters the housing 4. 41a is in contact with the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42 to energize the external circuit. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes the insulating material 40 of the reaction unit 3 to come into contact with the liquid as shown in FIG. Due to shrinkage, dissolution, softening, or the like, and changes to a property that cannot resist the internal stress of the first metal terminal piece 41, and the first metal terminal piece 41 is elastically restored in a direction away from the second metal terminal piece 42. To do. Thereby, the contact part 41a of the 1st metal terminal piece 41 is spaced apart from the contact part 42a of the 2nd metal terminal piece 42, and an external circuit is interrupted | blocked.

In addition, the switch element 1 may connect the 1st, 2nd metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 which are spaced apart using the insulating material 40 which expand | swells when it contacts with a liquid. In this case, the insulating material 40 is disposed on the upper part of the first metal terminal piece 41. Further, the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 are always urged in the direction of separating, and in a state before the liquid enters the housing 4, the contact portions 41 a of the first metal terminal piece 41. Is spaced from the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42. Then, when the liquid enters the housing 4, the insulating material 40 expands, whereby the first metal terminal piece 41 is pressed by the insulating material 40, and the contact portion 41 a becomes the contact portion 42 a of the second metal terminal piece 42. Touched.

Further, as shown in FIG. 35, the first metal terminal piece 41 is urged in a direction in which the contact portion 41a is separated from the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42, and in a normal state by the insulating material 40. You may make it fix in the state contacted with the 2nd metal terminal piece 42. FIG. The insulating material 40 is made of a material that has adhesiveness in a normal state and dissolves when in contact with a liquid, and fixes the contact portions 41a and 42a of the first and second metal terminal pieces 41 and 42 to each other.

As shown in FIG. 35 (A), the switch element 1 has a contact portion by fixing the first metal terminal piece 41 to the insulating material 40 in a state before the liquid enters the housing 4. 41a is in contact with the contact portion 42a of the second metal terminal piece 42 to energize the external circuit. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes the insulating material 40 of the reaction unit 3 to come into contact with the liquid as shown in FIG. As a result, the first metal terminal piece 41 elastically recovers in a direction away from the second metal terminal piece 42, such as melting or softening. Thereby, the contact part 41a of the 1st metal terminal piece 41 is spaced apart from the contact part 42a of the 2nd metal terminal piece 42, and an external circuit is interrupted | blocked.

[Configuration Example 11]
In addition, as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, the switch element to which the present invention is applied connects a pair of conductors 2 via the conductive particles 45, and causes the reaction unit 3 to pass the conductive particles 45 The conductive path may be blocked. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 has a casing 4 in which one or a plurality of liquid inlets 5 are formed. The introduction port 5 of the body 4 is provided on the opened inner wall, and conductive particles 45 are fixed and arranged on the insulating material 40. The housing 4 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and lead wires 46 and 47 serving as a pair of conductors 2 are led out from both ends. The introduction port 5 may be formed in a substantially central portion where the lead wires 46 and 47 are not provided, and may be formed in a slit shape over the circumferential direction of the housing 4.

Further, the switch element 1 is electrically connected by separating the lead wires 46 and 47 in the housing 4 and continuing the conductive particles 45 fixed to the insulating material 40 between the lead wires 46 and 47. . An introduction port 5 is formed on the array of the conductive particles 45.

The lead wires 46 and 47 to be a pair of conductors 2 are drawn out from the housing 4 and connected to the connection ends of the external circuits.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 is formed from the conductive particles 45 in which the lead wires 46 and 47 are fixed to the insulating material 40 as shown in FIG. It is conducted through the conductive path to energize the external circuit. When the liquid enters the housing 4 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes the insulating material 40 of the reaction unit 3 to come into contact with the liquid as shown in FIG. As a result, the conductive particles 45 arranged by the morphological displacement such as dissolution and contraction are aggregated, and the conductive path formed by the arrangement of the conductive particles 45 is blocked. As a result, the lead wires 46 and 47 are disconnected, and the external circuit is shut off.

Note that the switch element 1 may use, as the pair of conductors 2, external connection electrodes composed of metal terminal pieces supported in the housing 4 or electrode patterns formed on an insulating substrate. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 38 is provided with a pair of metal terminal pieces 48 and 49 connected by conductive particles 45 as a pair of conductors 2. The metal terminal pieces 48 and 49 are connected to external connection electrodes 50 and 51 facing outward from the mounting surface of the housing 4, respectively. In the switch element 1, the surface on which the external connection electrodes 50 and 51 are exposed becomes a mounting surface on the external circuit board, and the electrodes formed in the external circuit and the external connection electrodes 50 and 51 are connected.

The casing 4 is provided with an introduction port 5 at a substantially central portion of the top surface where the metal terminal pieces 48 and 49 are not provided, and an insulating material 40 that dissolves by contact with the liquid is formed on the inner side of the top surface. The conductive particles 45 are adhered. As shown in FIG. 38A, the switch element 1 has the metal terminal pieces 48 and 49 separated from each other in the housing 4, and the conductive particles 45 fixed to the insulating material 40 have the metal terminal pieces 48. , 49 are connected by being continuous. An introduction port 5 is formed on the array of the conductive particles 45.

Below the introduction port 5 is provided a space 52 in which the conductive particles 45 dropped from the array are accommodated. Then, as shown in FIG. 38B, when the liquid enters the switching element 1 from the introduction port 5, the insulating material 40 melts, and the conductive particles 45 fall into the space 52. As a result, the conductive path formed by the arrangement of the conductive particles 45 is blocked, and the space between the metal terminal pieces 48 and 49 is blocked.

[Configuration Example 12]
In addition, in the switch element to which the present invention is applied, the introduction port 5 of the housing 4 may be provided with the introduction groove 7 that is filled with the insulating material 40 and faces the portion where the conductive particles 53 are arranged. The switch element 1 shown in FIGS. 39A and 39B includes a housing 4 in which an introduction port 5 that is opened in a slit shape is formed on one surface, and an introduction groove that extends from the introduction port 5 into the housing 4. 7, lead wires 55 and 56 to be a pair of conductors 2 that are arranged apart from each other in the housing 4, and conductivity that is continuous by being arranged in the housing 4 to conduct the lead wires 55 and 56. The particle 53 and the insulating material 40 filled in the introduction groove 7 and expanded by touching the liquid to block the arrangement of the conductive particles 53 are provided.

The switch element 1 is opposed to the groove wall 7 a of the introduction groove 7 extending to the vicinity of the arrangement of the conductive particles 53. As a result, when the liquid enters the introduction groove 7, the insulating material 40 expands to press the array of the conductive particles 53, and the expanded insulating material 40 dissipates into the housing 4. Without this, the arrangement of the conductive particles 53 can be reliably blocked by the insulating material 40. In the switch element 1, a space 57 in which the conductive particles 53 are pushed out is formed on the opposite side of the introduction groove 7 across the array of the conductive particles 53.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 is conducted through a conductive path including conductive particles 53 in which lead wires 55 and 56 are arranged and fixed in the casing 4. The external circuit is energized. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting or leakage from the battery, the switch element 1 insulates the liquid that has entered the introduction groove 7 from the introduction port 5 as shown in FIG. When the material 40 comes into contact with the material 40, the material expands, and the conductive particles 53 are pushed out toward the space 57 to block the conductive path. As a result, the lead wires 55 and 56 are disconnected, and the external circuit is shut off.

The switch element 1 can use a known conductor such as a metal terminal piece in addition to the lead wires 55 and 56 as the pair of conductors 2.

Note that the switch element 1 may close the introduction port 5 by disposing a mesh member 58 having a mesh smaller than the expanded insulating material 40 on the surface of the housing 4. As a result, the switch element 1 contacts the liquid that has entered the introduction groove 7 from the opening of the introduction port 5 and expands from the introduction port 5 that is blocked by the mesh member 58 when expanded. It expands toward the inside of the housing 4 without being expanded or discharged outside the body, and the conductive particles 53 can be reliably pushed out toward the space 57 and the space between the lead wires 55 and 56 can be blocked.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 40A, in the switch element 1, the introduction groove 7 may be formed in a tapered shape that gradually widens from the opening of the introduction port 5 to the inside where the conductive particles 53 are arranged. . By gradually widening the introduction groove 7 as approaching the arrangement of the conductive particles 53, the insulating material 40 filled in the introduction groove 7 comes into contact with the liquid that has entered from the introduction port 5, as shown in FIG. This makes it easier to expand, expands toward the inside of the wide housing 4 when expanded, reliably pushes the conductive particles 53 toward the space 57, and blocks between the lead wires 55 and 56. Can do.

Further, the switch element 1 is formed so that the introduction groove 7 is widened from the opening of the introduction port 5 to the inside of the housing 4, so that a small amount of liquid that does not actuate the switch element 1 is contained in the introduction groove 7. Can be prevented, and the reliability as a sensor can be secured.

Further, in the switch element 1, the casing 4 may be made of ceramic. Thereby, the intensity | strength of the housing | casing 4 is improved and the housing | casing 4 does not deform | transform even when an expansion pressure is applied with the expansion | swelling of the insulating material 40. FIG. Note that the switch element 1 may be improved in strength by ceramic coating the casing 4 in addition to the casing 4 being made of ceramic. Moreover, the switch element 1 can take in a liquid more easily by using a porous material as a ceramic used for the housing | casing 4, or a ceramic coating material.

41 and 42, the switch element 1 may have a sheet-like insulating material 40 disposed between the inlet 5 and the arrangement of the conductive particles 53. The switch element 1 shown in FIGS. 41 and 42 includes a housing 4 in which an introduction port 5 opened in a slit shape on one surface, an introduction groove 7 extending from the introduction port 5 into the housing, and a housing Metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 to be a pair of conductors 2 spaced apart in 4, and conductive particles 53 that are arranged in the housing 4 to be continuous and make the metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 conductive. And a sheet body 62 of an insulating material 40 that is disposed between the introduction port 5 and the array of the conductive particles 53 and expands when the liquid is touched to block the array of the conductive particles 53.

The housing 4 is formed by attaching a pair of upper and lower halves 4c and 4d. In the upper half 4c, a slit-like introduction port 5 and an introduction groove 7 are formed, and a sheet body 62 of an insulating material 40 that expands by coming into contact with a liquid is attached to the inner surface side to be associated with the lower half 4d. ing. In the lower half 4d, metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 and conductive particles 53 are disposed, and on the side opposite to the upper half 4c of the metal terminal pieces 60 and 61, there is a space 63 in which the conductive particles 53 are pushed out. Is formed. The metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 are provided so as to be separated from each other, and are electrically connected via the conductive particles 53 arranged in the housing.

In the switch element 1, the sheet body 62 of the insulating material 40 is disposed between the inlet 5 and the array of the conductive particles 53 by the upper and lower halves 4 c and 4 d being brought together.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 is electrically connected via a conductive path made of conductive particles 53 in which the metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 are arranged and fixed in the casing 4. The external circuit is energized. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes the liquid that has entered the introduction groove 7 from the introduction port 5 as shown in FIG. By contacting the body 62, the insulating material 40 expands, and the conductive particles 53 are pushed out from between the metal terminal pieces 60, 61 toward the space 63 to block the conductive path. Thereby, between the metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 is cut | disconnected and an external circuit is interrupted | blocked.

Here, as shown in FIG. 41 (B), the metal terminal pieces 60 and 61 are formed in a comb-teeth shape, and the comb- teeth portions 60a and 61a project over the space 63 and engage with each other in a non-contact manner. The conductive particles 53 may be arranged between the comb tooth portions 60a and 61a. In this case, the introduction port 5 and the introduction groove 7 formed in a slit shape are preferably formed along the conductive particles 53 arranged between the comb- tooth portions 60a and 61a.

[Configuration Example 13]
In addition, the switch element to which the present invention is applied may cause the pair of conductors 2 to conduct by extruding the conductive particles 65 filled in the introduction groove 7. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 43 includes a housing 4 in which an introduction port 5 is formed on one side, an introduction groove 7 extending from the introduction port 5 into the housing, and conductive particles filled in the introduction groove 7. 65, a space 66 that is continuous with the introduction groove 7 and into which the conductive particles 65 filled in the introduction groove 7 are pushed out, and lead wires 67 that form a pair of conductors 2 that are spaced apart in the space 66, 68 and an insulating material 40 that is filled on the introduction port 5 side of the introduction groove 7 and expands when it comes into contact with the liquid.

The introduction groove 7 is filled with an insulating material 40 that expands when touching the liquid on the introduction port 5 side, and is filled with conductive particles 65 on the space 66 side. The space 66 is continuous with the introduction groove 7, and as shown in FIG. 43A, the array of conductive particles 69 connected to one end of the lead wires 67 and 68 is provided separately from each other. The space 66 has such a height that the conductive particles 65 can be arranged in a single layer, and is arranged so as to be continuous when the conductive particles 65 are pushed out.

This switch element 1 shuts off the external circuit by separating the arrangement of the lead wires 67 and 68 and the conductive particles 69 before the liquid enters the casing 4. When the liquid enters the casing 4 due to water wetting or leakage from the battery, the switch element 1 is insulated from the liquid that has entered the introduction groove 7 from the introduction port 5 as shown in FIG. The contact with the material 40 causes the insulating material 40 to expand, and the conductive particles 65 are pushed out into the space 66. Thereby, in the space 66, the conductive particles 65 are continuous with the arrangement of the conductive particles 69 continuous with the lead wires 67 and 68, a conductive path is formed between the lead wires 67 and 68, and the external circuit is conducted.

In addition to arranging the conductive particles 69 in the space 66, the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 43 has lead wires 67 and 68 extending below the introduction groove 7 so that the lead wires 67 and 68 are electrically conductive. The particles 65 may be brought into direct contact and conducted.

Also, in the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 43, the introduction groove 7 may be formed in a tapered shape that widens toward the inside of the housing 4, and the mesh is smaller than the particle size of the expanded insulating material 40. You may make it obstruct | occlude with a mesh member. Thereby, when the insulating material 40 filled in the introduction groove 7 comes into contact with the liquid that has entered from the opening of the introduction port 5 and expands, the switch element 1 is expanded and discharged from the introduction port 5 to the outside of the housing. The conductive particle 65 expands toward the inside of the housing 4 and reliably pushes the conductive particles 65 to the space 66 side, and the lead wires 67 and 68 can be electrically connected.

Further, in the switch element 1 shown in FIG. 43, the introduction port 5 may be closed by the sheet body 70 of the insulating material 40 that dissolves by contact with the liquid. As a result, the switch element 1 can prevent a small amount of liquid that does not operate the switch element 1 from entering the inlet 5, and can also ensure the reliability of the sensor. In addition to sticking the sheet body 70 of the insulating material 40, the switch element 1 may close the inlet 5 by applying the insulating material 40, filling the inlet 5, and the like. The switch element 1 can adjust the penetration of the liquid into the introduction port 5 that is the operating condition by adjusting the thickness and components of the insulating material 40.

[Configuration Example 14]
In addition, the switch element to which the present invention is applied arranges the conductive particles 71 in a lattice shape, and cuts the arrangement of the conductive particles 71 in accordance with the state change of the insulating material 40, thereby separating the pair of conductors 2 from each other. May be blocked. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 44 has a housing 4 in which a plurality of inlets 5 into which liquid enters is formed in a lattice shape, and the housing 4 expands, contracts, or dissolves by contact with the liquid. The insulating material 40 is provided over the entire surface of the housing 4, and the conductive particles 71 are fixed and arranged by the insulating material 40. In addition, the housing 4 is provided with external connection electrodes 72 and 73, which are a pair of conductors 2, spaced apart in the vicinity of opposite corners of the housing 4 and face the upper and lower surfaces of the housing 4. . The conductive particles 71 are fixed and arranged in a lattice pattern by the insulating material 40 in close contact with the adjacent conductive particles 71, thereby forming a conductive path between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73. , 73 are made conductive.

Further, the switch element 1 is provided with a fixing portion 74 for restricting the movement of the conductive particles 71 in the housing 4. The fixing portion 74 is to secure the insulation between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73 by restricting the movement of the conductive particles 71 when the state change of the insulating material 40 occurs, and is formed of an insulating material. For example, a plurality of cross-shaped standing walls are provided at predetermined intervals.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 has a conductive property in which a space between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73 provided separately is fixed and arranged in a lattice pattern by the insulating material 40. The external circuit is made conductive by being continued through the particles 71. When the liquid enters the casing 4 from the introduction port 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes a change in state due to the intruded liquid coming into contact with the insulating material 40, The conductive paths of the conductive particles 71 arranged in the shape are blocked. For example, as shown in FIG. 45, when the insulating material 40 contracts due to contact with the liquid, the switch element 1 aggregates the conductive particles 71 fixed to the contracted portion, thereby causing the conductive particles 71 to conduct. The path is blocked. Therefore, the switch element 1 can shut off the external circuit by opening between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73.

Here, in the switch element 1, the introduction ports 5 are formed in a lattice shape on one surface of the housing 4, and the insulating material 40 is provided over the entire surface of the housing 4 so that the conductive particles 71 are arranged in a lattice shape. Thus, as shown in FIG. 45 (A), the insulating material 40 at a location corresponding to the location A where the liquid has entered causes a change in state, and the conductive particles 71 agglomerate. At this time, as shown in FIG. 45 (B) and FIG. 46, in the switch element 1, the free movement of the conductive particles 71 is restricted by the fixing portion 74. A new conductive path can be prevented from being formed by contact with the arrayed particles, and insulation can be ensured. Further, since the insulating material 40 at a location corresponding to the liquid intrusion location A undergoes a state change and the conductive path by the conductive particles 71 is cut off, the switch element 1 has a liquid at any location of the housing 4. Even if it enters, the intrusion location can be detected.

In addition, the switch element 1 arranges the conductive particles 71 in a linear form and cuts off the arrangement of the conductive particles 71 in accordance with a change in the state of the insulating material 40, thereby cutting off the connection between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73. Also good. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 47 has a casing 4 in which a plurality of inlets 5 into which liquid enters is formed in a lattice shape, and the casing 4 expands, contracts, or dissolves by contact with the liquid. The insulating material 40 is provided over the entire surface of the housing 4, and the conductive particles 71 are fixed and arranged by the insulating material 40. In addition, the external connection electrodes 72 and 73 are provided in the casing 4 so as to be separated in the vicinity of opposite corners of the casing 4 and face the upper and lower surfaces of the casing 4. The conductive particles 71 fixed and arranged by the insulating material 40 are linearly arranged to form a conductive path between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73, and the external connection electrodes 72 and 73 are made conductive.

At this time, the switch elements 1 are preferably arranged over a wide range over the entire surface of the housing 4 by arranging the conductive particles 71 so as to meander. In addition, the switch element 1 is provided with a plurality of the above-described fixing portions 74 that restrict the movement of the conductive particles 71 in the housing 4 at a predetermined interval.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 has an insulating material 40 between the external connection electrodes 72, 73 provided apart as shown in FIG. The external circuit is made conductive by being continued through the conductive particles 71 fixed and arranged in a line. When the liquid enters the housing 4 from the introduction port 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 causes a change in state due to the intruded liquid coming into contact with the insulating material 40, The conductive paths of the conductive particles 71 arranged in the shape are blocked. As shown in FIG. 47 (B), when the insulating material 40 contracts due to contact with the liquid, the switch element 1 aggregates the conductive particles 71 fixed to the contracted portion, and thereby the conductive particles 71. Is interrupted. Therefore, the switch element 1 can shut off the external circuit by opening between the external connection electrodes 72 and 73.

Here, in the switch element 1, the introduction port 5 is formed in a lattice shape on one surface of the housing 4, and the conductive particles 71 arranged in a linear shape are provided over the entire surface of the housing 4, thereby The insulating material 40 at a location corresponding to the intrusion location changes its state, and the conductive particles 71 at the location aggregate. At this time, in the switch element 1, since the free movement of the conductive particles 71 is restricted by the fixing portion 74, a new conductive path is formed when the aggregate of the conductive particles 71 contacts other array particles. Can be prevented, and insulation can be ensured. Further, since the insulating material 40 at a location corresponding to the liquid intrusion location A undergoes a state change and the conductive path by the conductive particles 71 is cut off, the switch element 1 has a liquid at any location of the housing 4. Even if it enters, the intrusion location can be detected.

[Configuration Example 15] The switch element to which the present invention is applied uses the lead terminals 82 and 83 as the pair of conductors 2 and is electrically connected or opened via the conductive particles 81 fixed to the insulating material. You may make it open | release or conduct | electrically_connecting according to the state change of an insulating material. In the switch element 1 shown in FIGS. 48 (A) and 48 (B), lead terminals 82 and 83 arranged over the inside and outside of the housing 4 are used as a pair of conductors 2. The lead terminals 82 and 83 are fixed in a state of being separated from each other in the casing 4 and are electrically connected via conductive particles 81 filled in the casing 4.

The housing 4 is formed with one or a plurality of inlets 5 through which liquid enters. In the housing 4, an insulating material 40 that contracts or dissolves by contact with a liquid and conductive particles 81 fixed by the insulating material 40 are disposed. The conductive particles 81 are filled and arranged between the lead terminals 82 and 83 that are spaced apart by being fixed at a predetermined position by the insulating material 40 filled in the housing 4. Thereby, the switch element 1 makes the lead terminals 82 and 83 conductive.

In the state before the liquid enters the casing 4, the switch element 1 is fixed and arranged with the insulating material 40 between the lead terminals 82 and 83 provided apart as shown in FIG. 48. The external circuit is made conductive by being continued through the conductive particles 81. As shown in FIG. 49 (A), when the liquid enters the casing 4 from the introduction port 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, as shown in FIG. The infiltrated liquid comes into contact with the insulating material 40 to contract or dissolve, and the conductive particles 81 arranged between the lead terminals 82 and 83 are aggregated. As a result, in the switch element 1, the conductive particles 81 arranged and fixed between the lead terminals 82 and 83 aggregate to block the conductive path of the conductive particles 81. Therefore, the switch element 1 can shut off the external circuit by opening the lead terminals 82 and 83.

Further, the switch element 1 may conduct between the opened lead terminals 82 and 83 by using the insulating material 40 that expands, contracts, or dissolves by contact with the liquid. The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 50A is fixed in a state where the conductive particles 81 are aggregated in a region other than between the lead terminals 82 and 83 by the insulating material 40, and the lead terminals 82 and 83 are normally opened. Yes.

The switch element 1 expands, contracts, or dissolves when the liquid enters the housing 4 from the introduction port 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, etc. The conductive particles 81 that have been aggregated and fixed in a region other than between the lead terminals 82 and 83 are diffused into the housing 4. As a result, as shown in FIG. 50B, in the switch element 1, a large number of conductive particles 81 enter between the lead terminals 82 and 83, and a conductive path of the conductive particles 81 is formed. Therefore, the switch element 1 can conduct an external circuit by connecting the lead terminals 82 and 83.

[Configuration Example 16]
In the switch element to which the present invention is applied, the introduction port 5 of the housing 4 may be formed according to the aggregation position of the conductive particles 91. 51 uses the lead terminals 92 and 93 as a pair of conductors 2 and conducts between the lead terminals 92 and 93 that are open via the conductive particles 91, similarly to the switch element 1. To do.

In the switch element 1, the lead terminals 92 and 93 are separated from each other in the housing 4, and the conductive particles 91 are aggregated in a region other than between the lead terminals 92 and 93 by the insulating material 40 that dissolves by contact with the liquid. The lead terminals 92 and 93 are open in a normal state.

The casing 4 of the switch element 1 has a slit-like inlet 5 through which liquid enters. The introduction port 5 is formed in a slit shape at a position corresponding to the aggregation position of the conductive particles 91 between the lead terminals 92 and 93. Specifically, in the switch element 1, the lead terminals 92 and 93 are opposed to each other in the housing 4 and supported at a predetermined interval, and the conductive particles 91 are supported by the water-soluble insulating material 40 on the lead terminals 92 and 93. In addition, they are agglomerated and fixed at positions facing each other across these gaps. As shown in FIG. 51B, the switch element 1 is formed with a slit-shaped inlet 5 that intersects the gap between the lead terminals 92 and 93 in the housing 4. The insulating material 40 is entirely filled in the housing 4 and aggregates and fixes the conductive particles 91 at predetermined positions.

As shown in FIG. 52 (A), when the liquid enters the casing 4 from the inlet 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 enters the gap between the lead terminals 92 and 93. The insulating material 40 is dissolved around the center. As a result, as shown in FIG. 52B, in the switch element 1, the conductive particles 91 are positively aggregated between the lead terminals 92 and 93, and a conductive path of the conductive particles 91 is formed. Therefore, the switch element 1 can conduct an external circuit by connecting the lead terminals 92 and 93.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 53A and 53B, the switch element 1 includes lead terminals 92 and 93 in which conductive particles 91 are supported in the housing 4 so as to face each other at a predetermined interval. The inlet 5 may be formed in a slit shape in the same direction as the lead terminals 92 and 93 in the gap between the lead terminals 92 and 93 while being agglomerated and fixed to the side.

Thereby, as shown in FIG. 54 (A), the switch element 1 becomes intruded when liquid enters the casing 4 from the inlet 5 due to water wetting or leakage from the battery. However, the insulating material 40 is dissolved around the gap between the lead terminals 92 and 93. As a result, as shown in FIG. 54B, in the switch element 1, the conductive particles 91 are positively aggregated between the lead terminals 92 and 93, and a conductive path of the conductive particles 91 is formed. Therefore, the switch element 1 can conduct an external circuit by connecting the lead terminals 92 and 93.

[Configuration Example 17]
In addition, in the switch element to which the present invention is applied, both ends of the conductive layer may be cut off by forming a conductive layer on the side surface of the insulating material and expanding the insulating material in contact with the liquid. The switch element 1 shown in FIGS. 55 and 56 includes a housing 4 in which one or a plurality of introduction ports 5 into which a liquid enters is formed, and a reaction unit that is provided in the housing 4 and expands by contact with the liquid. 3 and an insulating material 103 that is connected to an external circuit at both ends, and a conductive layer 104 that forms the conductor 2 covered on the side surface of the insulating material 103. When the insulating material 103 that has come into contact expands, both ends of the conductive layer 104 are cut off.

The housing 4 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, and an insulating material 103 is accommodated therein. The housing 4 has a plurality of liquid inlets 5 penetrating into the housing 4. The insulating material 103 accommodated in the housing 4 is a material that expands when in contact with a liquid, and can be formed using the same material as the insulating material 40 described above. The insulating material 103 is formed in a columnar shape, for example, and the conductive layer 104 is formed on the outer peripheral surface.

The conductive layer 104 can be formed of a known material used as a conductive material such as solder, and can be formed by a known method such as conductive plating or printing. The conductive layer 104 is connected to external connection electrode materials 105 and 106 such as a pair of lead wires, and the external connection electrode materials 105 and 106 are connected to connection electrodes of the external circuit, thereby energizing the external circuit. Configure part of the path.

The switch element 1 is connected via the conductive layer 104 as shown in FIGS. 55A and 56A before the liquid enters the housing 4 through the inlet 5. The external circuit is made conductive by connecting the paired external connection electrode members 105 and 106. When the liquid enters the casing 4 from the introduction port 5 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 has an insulating material 103 as shown in FIGS. 55 (B) and 56 (B). Is expanded by contact with the liquid that has entered, and the conductive layer 104 formed around the insulating material 103 is broken. Thereby, the switch element 1 can cut off the external circuit by cutting the pair of external connection electrode materials 105 and 106 connected via the conductive layer 104.

In the switch element 1, the conductive layer 104 may be formed in a solid shape around the insulating material 103, or a linear conductive pattern may be formed so as to spiral around the insulating material 103. Also good. In the switch element 1, as shown in FIG. 57A, the conductive layer 104 may be formed of a conductive wire 107 such as a wire that spirals around the side surface of the insulating material 103.

The switch element 1 can be easily formed by winding the conductive layer 104 in a spiral shape with the conductive wire 107, and when the insulating material 103 expands as shown in FIG. However, if a part of the wire 107 is disconnected, the conductive path can be reliably interrupted.

In the switch element 1, the insulating material 103 may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, and the conductive layer 104 may be formed on the inner peripheral surface. Also in this case, the insulating material 103 expands in contact with the liquid, whereby the conductive layer 104 formed on the inner peripheral surface is cut and the conductive path can be blocked.

[Configuration Example 18]
In the switch element to which the present invention is applied, the conductive layer is formed on the side surface of the insulating material, and the insulating material in contact with the liquid expands to connect both ends of the conductive layer that have been disconnected. . The switch element 1 shown in FIG. 58 and FIG. 59 is disposed along a hollow housing 4 in which one or a plurality of introduction ports 5 into which liquid enters and the inner wall of the housing 4 are formed, and is in contact with the liquid. The cylindrical insulating material 113 that constitutes the reaction part 3 that expands by this, and the linear conductive layer 114 that constitutes the conductor 2 that circulates around the inner peripheral surface of the insulating material 113 while both ends are connected to an external circuit. And have.

The housing 4 has, for example, a cylindrical shape, and an insulating material 113 is accommodated along the inner wall. The housing 4 has a slit-shaped inlet 5 formed therein. The insulating material 113 accommodated in the housing 4 is a material that expands when in contact with a liquid, and can be formed using the same material as the insulating material 40 described above. The insulating material 113 has, for example, a cylindrical shape similar to that of the housing 4, and a linear conductive layer 114 is spirally wound around the inner peripheral surface.

The conductive layer 114 can be formed of a known material used as a conductive material such as solder, and can be formed by a known method such as conductive plating or printing. The conductive layer 114 is connected to external connection electrode materials 115 and 116 such as a pair of lead wires, and the external connection electrode materials 115 and 116 are connected to connection electrodes of the external circuit, thereby energizing the external circuit. Configure part of the path.

As shown in FIGS. 58A and 59A, the insulating material 113 and the conductive layer 114 are formed with a slit 117 continuous with the introduction port 5, and the conductive layer 114 has an external connection electrode material 115 formed by the slit 117. , 116 are disconnected at both ends. Thereby, the switch element 1 interrupts the external circuit by disconnecting the conductive layer 114 in a state before the liquid enters the housing 4 through the introduction port 5.

When the liquid enters the introduction port 5 and the slit 117 due to water wetting, liquid leakage from the battery, or the like, the switch element 1 enters the insulating material 113 as shown in FIGS. 58 (B) and 59 (B). By contacting the liquid, the liquid expands along the inner peripheral surface of the housing 4 and the slit 117 is closed. As a result, the switch element 1 is connected to the conductive layer 114 formed around the insulating material 113 to form a conductive path, and can conduct an external circuit disconnected by the slit 117.

In addition, the switch element 1 may use a conductive wire material as the conductive layer 114 in addition to a conductive pattern, or may mix and use a conductive pattern and a conductive wire material. In addition, one end or both ends of the disconnected portion of the conductive layer 114 that is disconnected by the slit 117 and connected as the insulating material 113 is expanded may be formed using a metal terminal to improve connectivity.

[Configuration Example 19]
Further, as shown in FIG. 60, the switch element 1 to which the present invention is applied is disposed in the vicinity of the reaction unit 3 that generates heat when it is in contact with the liquid and the reaction unit 3, and the electrical resistance value decreases as the temperature rises. And the conductor 2 made of the thermistor 120. The reaction unit 3 can be configured by using, for example, quick lime that generates heat by reacting with water. For example, as shown in FIG. 61, the reaction unit 3 is arranged and held on an insulating substrate 121. The reaction unit 3 and the thermistor 120 are thermally connected by being arranged close to each other, and the thermistor 120 is heated by the heat of the reaction unit 3.

The thermistor 120 is formed on the insulating substrate 121, and both ends thereof are connected to the first and second external connection electrodes 122 and 123. The thermistor 120 is connected to the energization path of the external circuit via the first and second external connection electrodes 122 and 123, and the energization of the external circuit is always regulated by a high electric resistance. As the thermistor 120, an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor or a CTR (critical temperature resistor) thermistor can be preferably used. Then, when the switching element 1 generates heat due to the reaction unit 3 coming into contact with the liquid, the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 120 is decreased, and thereby the external circuit can be energized.

In the switch element 1, the housing 4 is formed by a cover member 124 that covers the insulating substrate 121. The cover member 124 is formed with an introduction port 5 that guides the liquid to the reaction unit 3.

In addition, it is preferable that the switch element 1 is disposed so that the reaction unit 3 and the thermistor 120 overlap each other. For example, in the switch element 1, the thermistor 120 is placed on a quicklime placed on an insulating substrate. Thereby, the reaction part 3 and the thermistor 120 are thermally connected closely, and the reaction part 3 generates heat, so that the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 120 can be quickly reduced.

As shown in FIG. 61, the switch element 1 may be provided with a water repellent treatment part 125 at a place other than the reaction part 3 or a place other than the reaction part 3 and its vicinity. For example, in the switch element 1, a water repellent treatment part 125 is provided in an exposed region of the surface 121 a of the insulating substrate 121 excluding the reaction part 3 and the thermistor 120.

The water-repellent treatment part 125 can be formed by a known method such as application of a fluorine-based coating agent or solder paste coating.

Thereby, the switch element 1 can guide the liquid on the insulating substrate 121 to the reaction part 3 which is a non-water-repellent region, and accelerates the heating of the thermistor 120 to quickly reduce the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 120. Can do.

1 switch element, 2 conductor, 3 reaction unit, 4 housing, 4a top surface, 4b side surface, 5 introduction port, 6 discharge port, 7 introduction groove, 8 storage unit, 9 water-soluble sealing material, 10 external connection electrode , 11 fuse element, 12 electrode, 13 through-hole, 14 separator, 15 support part, 16 water-repellent treatment part, 17 coat layer, 18 water-repellent treatment part, 19 water-absorbing heat generating material, 20 insulating substrate, 21 conductor, 22 stranded wire , 23 liquid soluble material, 24 sponge metal, 25 external connection terminal, 27 conductive particles, 28 aggregate, 30 external conductor, 30a opening, 30b insulation coat layer, 31 internal conductor, 31a insulation coat layer, 32 insulation film , 40 insulating material, 41 first metal terminal piece, 41a contact part, 42 second metal terminal piece, 42a contact part, 43 Part connection electrode, 45 conductive particles, 46 lead wire, 47 lead wire, 48 metal terminal piece, 49 metal terminal piece, 50 external connection electrode, 51 external connection electrode, 52 space, 53 conductive particle, 55 lead wire, 56 Lead wire, 57 space, 58 mesh member, 60 metal terminal piece, 60a comb tooth portion, 61 metal terminal piece, 61a comb tooth portion, 62 sheet body, 63 space, 65 conductive particles, 66 space, 67 lead wire, 68 Lead wire, 69 conductive particle, 70 sheet body, 71 conductive particle, 72 external connection electrode, 73 external connection electrode, 74 fixing part, 81 conductive particle, 82 lead wire, 83 lead wire, 91 conductive particle, 92 Lead wire, 93 lead wire, 103 insulating material, 104 conductive layer, 105 external connection electrode material, 106 outside Connection electrode material, 107 wire material, 113 insulation material, 114 conductive layer, 115 external connection electrode material, 116 external connection electrode material, 117 slit, 120 thermistor, 121 insulation substrate, 122 first external connection electrode, 123 second external Connection electrode, 124 cover member, 125 water repellent treatment part

Claims (14)

1. One or more conductors connected to an external circuit;
   A reaction section that conducts or blocks the conductor by contact with a liquid; and
   A housing with the reaction part built-in,
   A switch element in which the casing is provided with an introduction port for guiding a liquid to the reaction part.
2. The switch element according to claim 1, wherein the casing is made of a polyhedron, and one or more introduction ports are provided on one or more surfaces.
3. The switch element according to claim 1, wherein the casing is formed in a cylindrical shape, and one or more introduction ports are formed on a side surface.
4. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the casing is provided with a discharge port for discharging the flowed-in liquid.
5. The switch element according to claim 4, wherein the discharge port is provided at the same height as the position where the reaction part is provided or above the position where the reaction part is provided.
6. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the introduction port is provided with an introduction groove that guides the liquid to the reaction section.
7. The switch element according to claim 6, wherein the introduction groove is gradually narrowed from the opening of the introduction port to the inside.
8. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the casing has a water repellent treatment applied to the introduction port.
9. The switch element according to claim 6, wherein the casing has a water repellent treatment applied to the introduction groove.
10. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the casing has a water repellent treatment applied to an inner wall.
11. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the introduction port is closed with a water-soluble material that dissolves in the liquid.
12. The switch element according to claim 6, wherein a water-soluble material that dissolves in the liquid is disposed in the introduction groove.
13. The switch element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a storage part for storing the liquid is provided at a position where the reaction part is provided.
14. 14. The housing is provided with a discharge port for discharging the flowed-in liquid at the same height as the position where the storage section is provided or below the position where the storage section is provided. The switch element as described.

Images