FR3141029A1 - Connector for a printed circuit forming a heat sink and configured to allow electrical and mechanical connection. - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector (1) for a printed circuit, the connector (1) comprising: a pin (1A) extending longitudinally along a main axis (Ap), and a head (1B) of connector (1), fixed to one end (1A.1) of the pin (1A), extending in a perpendicular plane (Pp) to said main axis (Ap) of the pin (1A), the head (1B) comprising at least three tabs ( 1B.3) each extending along a secondary longitudinal axis (As1, As2, As3) parallel to the main axis (Ap) of the pin (1A), the tongues (1B.3) all extending from 'the same side of the head (1B) of connector (1) so that said tabs (1B.3), as well as the pin (1A), are configured to pass through the printed circuit, and that the connector (1 ) is made of a metal so as to form a heat sink for the printed circuit. Abstract figure: Fig. 1a

Description

Connector for a printed circuit forming a heat sink and configured to allow electrical and mechanical connection. Technical domain.

The present invention relates to a connector for a printed circuit. The invention also relates to the printed circuit comprising at least one of said connectors, and to a three-phase motor comprising said printed circuit.

The invention relates to the technical field of motor vehicles, and more particularly to three-phase motors of motor vehicles comprising a printed circuit with connectors.

State of the art.

Motor vehicles generally include an engine with a cooling system essential for the thermal regulation of said engine. In a current vehicle, this cooling system includes at least one circulation circuit in which a coolant flows, said circuit being positioned in contact with the engine. The coolant will, as it heats up, lower the temperature of the engine by heat exchange. When the temperature of the coolant reaches a threshold value, generally at least 90°C, a fan is triggered to lower the temperature of said liquid below the threshold value.

The engine fan comprises at least one propeller powered by a three-phase motor. The control of such a motor is carried out using a printed circuit. This printed circuit comprises electrical and/or electronic components, which can trigger various functions within the engine. Some of these components, called power components, produce significant heat which can lead to premature deterioration of said components if it is not properly evacuated.

In addition, a mechanical connection must be made between the motor and the printed circuit, which is usually made by pins. It is further known that these pins can form all or part of a connector for a printed circuit, such a connector can then be used for the electrical connection between the electric motor and the printed circuit.

An example of such a connector is described in published patent document US 2013/0342986 A1. This document discloses a connector with a pin extending along a major axis, and a connector head positioned at one end of the pin. Three tabs extend from the connector head and are arranged along an axis parallel to the major axis, on the side opposite the pin. But holding the connector in place by the three tabs makes the electrical connection between the head and the circuit fragile and prone to breakage.

The invention aims to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the aforementioned state of the art. More particularly, the invention aims to promote heat transfer between the power components mounted on the printed circuit and the connector, while allowing an electrical and mechanical connection between the printed circuit and the motor.

Another goal of the application is to enable better stability of the connector when mounted on the PCB.

Presentation of the invention.

The solution proposed by the invention is a connector for a printed circuit, the connector being configured to allow an electrical connection with a motor, the connector comprising: a pin extending longitudinally along a main axis, and a connector head, fixed to one end of the pin, extending in a plane perpendicular to said main axis of the pin, the head comprising at least three tabs each extending along a secondary longitudinal axis parallel to the main axis of the pin, the tabs all extending from the same side of the connector head such that said tabs, as well as the pin, are configured to pass through the printed circuit, and the connector is made of a metal so as to form a heat sink for the printed circuit.

The connector according to the invention performs three functions within the engine. First, it allows the dissipation of heat produced by the power components, from the head to the connector pin. This function is improved by the shape of the connector and by its metal construction. The larger the size of the connector head, the more efficient the heat dissipation.

Next, the connector allows the mechanical connection between the PCB and the motor. This connection is improved by the positioning of the pin and tabs on a single side of the connector head, which improves the stability of said connector after its insertion into the PCB. This stability is also particularly important when placing components and connectors on the PCB, and before soldering them. Indeed, incorrect placement of the components could hinder their soldering, and lead to manufacturing defects.

Finally, the connector also allows the electrical connection between the circuit board and the motor, which is made at the tabs and possibly the connector pin.

Advantageously, the connector tabs are three in number. When the number of tabs is at least three, the connector head has a more uniform support on the printed circuit. Alternatively, the connector tabs may be two in number. In this case, in order to maintain an electrical connection as effective as with three tabs, the section of each of the two tabs must be larger.

Other advantageous features of the apparatus which is the subject of the invention are listed below. Each of these features can be considered alone or in combination with the remarkable features defined above. Each of these features contributes, where appropriate, to the resolution of specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the remarkable features defined above do not necessarily participate. The latter may be the subject, where appropriate, of one or more divisional patent applications.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the head of the connector further comprises a flat central portion from which extend at least three branches ending respectively in at least one tab.

Advantageously, the number of branches is equivalent to the number of tabs. Preferably, when the number of tabs is three, the number of branches of the connector head is also three. Alternatively, when the number of tabs is two, the number of branches of the connector head is also two. Alternatively, two separate tabs can be positioned at the ends of each of the branches. The formation of branches makes it possible to limit the amount of material used while maintaining good efficiency for heat dissipation. The formation of branches also makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing costs of the connector due to the smaller amount of material.

Alternatively, the flat central portion may form a solid metal cup, said cup having a flat main portion terminated at its periphery by a single curved portion, said portion terminating punctually by tabs preferably located equidistant from each other. The flat metal cup has the same heat sink function, which will in this case be slightly more effective due to the greater quantity of material.

According to one embodiment of the invention, each branch comprises at least one curved portion so as to orient each tab along their respective secondary longitudinal axis.

Advantageously, the curved portion forms an angle of approximately 90°, ± 5°, relative to the perpendicular plane of the flat central portion. The curved portion allows the tabs to be positioned parallel and on the same side of the connector head as the pin of said connector. The curved portion reduces the fragility of the connector and promotes the correct positioning of the tabs in the printed circuit.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the curved portion comprises at least one support zone configured to come into abutment against the printed circuit when the connector is mounted on said circuit.

Advantageously, the presence of at least one support zone on the curved portion of the connector makes it possible to improve the correct positioning of said connector and to stabilize it before welding the tabs. According to a preferred embodiment, at least two support zones are found at the end of each of the branches, on either side of the tab. Alternatively, the presence of several tabs at the end of each branch can vary the number of support zones. Alternatively, when the connector head forms a cup, at least one support zone can be formed between two consecutive tabs.

Advantageously, the branches have an identical angular distance between them.

Advantageously, the angular distance between the branches is identical, which allows the connector to have the best possible balance for its positioning in the printed circuit. This balance will facilitate the spontaneous maintenance of the connector before and during soldering, which will help in the manufacture of the printed circuit. For the connector, an identical angular distance between the branches also makes it possible to simplify its manufacture and reduce its assembly time on the printed circuit. More preferably, when the connector comprises three branches, the angular distance provided between two of the consecutive branches is 120°. The arrangement of the branches at 120° is particularly preferred, because it allows a more uniform installation of the connector on the printed circuit and more interesting mechanics, including for the passage of electric current. Alternatively, when the connector has two branches, the angular distance between said branches is 180°.

Advantageously, the connector is made of a copper-based alloy.

Advantageously, the connector comprises a layer of nickel and a layer of tin.

Advantageously, the tin layer is an external layer of said connector.

Advantageously, at least the connector tabs are made of copper.

Advantageously, the use of certain metallic materials facilitates soldering. Thus, copper or tin are particularly preferred materials. By copper-based alloy, we mean an alloy comprising at least 5% copper in its composition. More preferably, a copper-based alloy is understood as an alloy comprising at least 50% by weight of copper in its total composition. Preferably, the tabs made entirely of copper make it easier to solder the connector to the printed circuit. Alternatively, the presence of an external layer of tin also makes it easier to solder the connector to the printed circuit.

Advantageously, at least one of the branches has a length of between 5mm and 7mm, and a width of between 3.5mm and 4.5mm.

Advantageously, the length and width of the branches are adapted to allow optimal heat dissipation.

Advantageously, all the branches of the same connector are of identical dimensions. This makes it easier to position it on the printed circuit.

Advantageously, at least one of the tabs has a length of between 4mm and 6mm, and a width of between 1mm and 5mm.

Advantageously, the minimum length of the tabs must be greater than the thickness of the support of the printed circuit on which the connector is to be mounted. Indeed, the length of the tabs must be adapted regardless of the welding process chosen. Advantageously, the width of the tab must be sufficient to allow good maintenance of the connector on the printed circuit, and to allow the best possible electrical conduction between the printed circuit and the connector. Also, the shape of the tabs, their width and their thickness can vary according to the number of tabs positioned on the connector, so as to maintain optimal electrical conductivity.

More specifically, the electrical connection of the connector to the printed circuit can be achieved using different techniques. Preferably, the techniques used are component soldering techniques, such as soldering, for example by reflow or wave soldering. Soldering the tabs makes it possible to stabilize the connectors placed on the printed circuit.

The preferred technique in the context of the invention is soldering. In this case, the solder paste is positioned between the printed circuit and the branches of the connector, in contact with the holes receiving one of the tabs. Preferably, two sections of solder paste are positioned laterally to each tab. In the case of wave soldering, the soldering is done by capillarity on an opposite face of the printed circuit from the face occupied by the head of the connector.

Advantageously, the pin has a length of between 20mm and 30mm and a diameter of between 1.5mm and 2.5mm.

Advantageously, the length of the pin must be sufficient to pass through the printed circuit and allow a physical connection between the motor and the printed circuit. Preferably, the diameter of the pin may be slightly smaller than the diameter of the hole in which it must be mounted, so as to allow both its fitting and the limitation of its movements. This fitting also allows for close contact between the connector and the printed circuit. The diameter of the pin must also be sufficient to maintain a satisfactory physical connection between the motor and the printed circuit, in order to avoid any risk of breakage which could be detrimental to the proper functioning of the motor. Additionally, the pin may be soldered to the printed circuit.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the tabs of the connector all have an identical shape and dimensions.

Advantageously, the identical shape and dimensions between all the tabs makes it possible, on the one hand, to facilitate the manufacture of the connector, and on the other hand, to facilitate its installation on the printed circuit. Alternatively, the tabs may have a different shape and/or dimensions.

According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the branches, called a separate branch, has a length greater than the other branches.

Advantageously, the separate branch has a length at least twice the length of the other branches, preferably at least three times the length of the other branches.

Advantageously, the connector having a separate branch makes it possible to improve efficiency during heat dissipation. Indeed, this separate branch can be advantageously positioned close to the power components that produce the most heat, and thus improve its dissipation within the connector.

The invention also relates to a printed circuit, said printed circuit comprising at least one connector configured to allow an electrical connection with a motor and electrical and/or electronic components fixed to said circuit, said components comprising power components, the connector being according to the invention.

Advantageously, a printed circuit comprising connectors according to the invention makes it possible to have a mechanical connection between the printed circuit and the motor, while maintaining an electrical connection, at least via the tabs of said connector. Such a connector also makes it possible to improve the heat dissipation of the power components.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the printed circuit comprises a first face on which the electrical and/or electronic components are fixed, and a second face configured to be oriented towards the motor.

Advantageously, positioning the connectors close to the power components improves their heat dissipation, thus eliminating the potential harmful effects caused by excess heat, particularly in the long term. The heat produced by said components is transmitted to the connector heads located on the first side of the printed circuit. It then diffuses via the pin into the motor located against the second side of said circuit.

Advantageously, when the connector is mounted on the printed circuit, the connector head is distant from the printed circuit so as to allow air circulation between said head and the printed circuit.

Advantageously, the distance between the connection head and the corresponding face of the printed circuit allows for optimal heat dissipation thanks to the presence of air.

Advantageously, the distance between the central portion of the connector head and the printed circuit is between 0.5mm and 5mm.

Advantageously, the distance between the central portion of the connection head and the corresponding face of the printed circuit must not be too great, so as to limit the total thickness of the printed circuit. Limiting the space taken up by said circuit makes it possible to improve the miniaturization of the components and to save space in the design of the motor.

Advantageously, the circuit comprises at least one set of orifices, the set of orifices comprising a central orifice configured to allow the passage by fitting of the pin of a connector, and at least three orifices eccentric with respect to the central orifice, each eccentric orifice being configured to allow the protruding passage of one of the tabs of said connector.

Advantageously, each set of holes allows a connector to be mounted on the printed circuit board. These holes hold the connector in place before soldering.

Advantageously, the connector head is located close to, or at a distance of at most 5 mm, preferably at most 2 mm, from the power components.

Advantageously, positioning the head close to the power components allows the best possible heat dissipation from said components.

According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the tabs protrudes through the printed circuit, by at least 1.2 mm so as to allow welding of said tab at or on the second face of the printed circuit, and/or at or on the first face of the printed circuit.

Advantageously, the protrusion of the tabs makes it easier to solder them, especially when using wave soldering. The length of the tabs also helps to hold the connector in position before soldering, by stabilizing the connector.

Advantageously, all of the tabs of the connector are soldered at or on the second face of the printed circuit, and/or at or on the first face of the printed circuit.

Advantageously, the fact that all the tabs are soldered to the printed circuit improves the resistance to the connector's forces and limits the risks of solder breakage. This also improves the electrical connection of the connectors to the printed circuit. Heat dissipation is also more efficient. Alternatively, at least one tab of each connector is soldered. Soldering only one tab reduces the manufacturing costs of the printed circuit.

Advantageously, the circuit comprises a plurality of connectors.

Advantageously, the plurality of connectors makes it possible to improve the mechanical connection, the electrical connection and the heat dissipation between the motor and the printed circuit. Each connector can be assigned to a group of power components, and thus allow the heat dissipation of said group of components.

The invention also relates to a three-phase motor comprising at least one printed circuit, the printed circuit being according to the invention.

The three-phase motors according to the invention are more compact because they include fewer components, since the pins and electrical connectors are merged. The service life of such motors is also increased, by reducing the deleterious effects produced by the heat, in the more or less long term, emitted by the power components. The improvement of the heat dissipation reduces this problem.

Advantageously, the motor is a motor whose power is between 400 and 500W, the connector being according to the invention.

Advantageously, connectors with shorter branches allow good heat dissipation in low-power three-phase motors (between 400W and 500W).

Advantageously, the motor is a motor whose power is between 600 and 650W, the connector being according to the invention.

Advantageously, connectors with a longer distinct branch allow better heat dissipation from power components to the motor. Indeed, the longest branch being positioned close to the power components, they will allow more efficient heat recovery and better transmission to the spindle. Thus, these connectors are particularly effective in three-phase motors of greater power (600W to 650W).

Brief description of the figures.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear better on reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, produced as indicative and non-limiting examples and in which:

is a perspective view of a connector according to a first embodiment of the invention, with a head of the connector oriented upwards.

is a perspective view of the connector of the , with the connector head facing down.

is a bottom view of a printed circuit board mounted on a three-phase motor and including the connectors of Figures 1a and 1b.

is an enlarged view of the connector head of the preceding figures mounted on the printed circuit board and viewed from above.

is an enlarged view of the connector head of the preceding figures mounted on the printed circuit board and viewed from below.

is a diagram showing a section of the connector of the previous figures mounted on a printed circuit board.

is a view of the connectors of the previous figures mounted on the printed circuit, with the solder paste to fix each connector on said circuit.

is a perspective view of a connector according to a second embodiment of the invention, with a head of the connector oriented upwards.

is a bottom view of a printed circuit comprising the connectors according to the second embodiment of the invention.

Description of the embodiments.

As used herein, and unless otherwise indicated, the use of the ordinal adjectives " first ", " second ", etc., to describe an object merely indicates that different occurrences of similar objects are referred to and does not imply that the objects so described must be in any given sequence, whether in time, space, ordering, etc. " X and/or Y " means: X alone or Y alone or X+Y. Generally, it will be appreciated that in the various accompanying drawings, the objects are arbitrarily drawn to facilitate their reading. In the remainder of the description, the term " longitudinally " is understood to mean the lengthwise direction of the pin and/or tabs.

Figures 1a and 1b show two views of a connector according to a first embodiment of the invention.

A connector 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises a pin 1A which extends longitudinally along a main axis Ap of said pin 1A, the “ main axis ” being the axis passing through its center and extending longitudinally to the pin 1A. The pin 1A has a length LB of between 20 mm and 30 mm, more preferably between 28 mm and 30 mm, and a diameter DB of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, more preferably between 1.7 mm and 2.3 mm. The pin 1A also comprises a first end 1A.1 from which a head 1B of connector 1 extends, and a second end 1A.2 remaining free.

In this embodiment of the invention, the head 1B of the connector 1 extends along a plane substantially perpendicular Pp to the main axis Ap of the pin 1A. A “ substantially perpendicular plane Pp ” is a plane extending perpendicular to the main axis Ap of the pin 1A, i.e. a plane extending at approximately 90° from the main axis Ap, with a possible variation of plus or minus 5°. This variation may be due to the vagaries of the manufacture and/or assembly of the connectors 1. Preferably, the head 1B of the connector 1 comprises a flat central portion 1B.1 which extends along the substantially perpendicular plane Pp. By “ flat central portion ” is meant the portion of the head 1B of the connector 1 positioned near the first end 1A.1 of the pin 1A. In these figures, the flat central portion 1B.1 has a substantially circular shape. However, it can have different shapes not shown in these figures, including that of a full cup.

The flat central portion 1B.1 of the head 1B of the connector 1 may be extended by at least three branches 1B.2. Preferably, each branch 1B.2 has a length Lb of between 2 mm and 5 mm, more preferably between 1.5 mm and 3.5 mm. Preferably, each branch 1B.2 also has a width lb of between 1 mm and 5 mm, more preferably between 3 mm and 4 mm. The branches 1B.2 also have an angular distance between them that is preferably identical. By " angular distance " is meant the angle positioned between two consecutive branches 1B.2 of the head 1B of the connector 1. In a preferred embodiment, when the head 1B of the connector 1 comprises three branches 1B.2, the angular distance between two consecutive branches 1B.2 is approximately 120°. Alternatively, at least two branches 1B.2 may extend from the flat central portion 1B.1 of the head 1B of the connector 1. Thus, if the head 1B of the connector 1 comprises only two branches 1B.2, the angular distance between the branches 1B.2 is approximately 180°. Alternatively, the angular distance between two consecutive branches 1B.2 may vary.

Each of the branches 1B.2 may comprise a substantially flat portion 1B.2a in continuity with the flat central portion 1B.1 of the head 1B of the connector 1, the substantially flat portion 1B.2a extending in a plane substantially perpendicular Pp to the main axis Ap of the pin 1A.

The branch 1B.2 further comprises a curved portion 1B.2b in continuity with the substantially flat portion 1B.2a and at the opposite end of the flat central portion 1B.1. Each curved portion 1B.2b further has at least one support zone 1B.2bi whose function will be explained below. According to a preferred embodiment, at least two support zones 1B.2bi are found at the end of each branch 1B.2. Alternatively, when the flat central portion 1B.1 forms a solid cup, said portion 1B.1 ends in its periphery with a single curved portion (not shown in these figures).

The head 1B of the connector 1 further comprises at least three tabs 1B.3 which each extend along a secondary longitudinal axis (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ) parallel to the main axis Ap of the pin 1A. By “ secondary longitudinal axis ” is meant a distinct axis parallel to the main axis Ap of the pin 1A. Thus, a secondary longitudinal axis (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ) passes through each of the tabs 1B.3 and is distinct from the secondary longitudinal axes (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ) of the other tabs 1B.3.

Alternatively, two tabs 1B.3 may extend from the head 1B of connector 1. The tabs 1B.3 and the pin 1A of connector 1 all extend on the same side of the head 1B of connector 1.

Preferably, the tabs 1B.3 are positioned at the end of the branch 1B.2, each branch 1B.2 preferably supporting a single tab 1B.3. When the branch 1B.2 supports a single tab 1B.3, the tab 1B.3 preferably extends from the middle of the curved portion 1B.2b, so as to form two support zones 1B.2bi on either side of said tab 1B.3. The orientation of the curved portion 1B.2b, the free end of which is oriented on the same side as the pin 1A of the connector 1, allows the tabs 1B.3 to be properly positioned on the same side of the head 1B of the connector 1. The curved portion 1B.2b of each branch 1B.2 allows each tab 1B.3 to be oriented along its secondary longitudinal axis (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ). Alternatively, each branch 1B.2 can support several tabs 1B.3. Alternatively, when the flat central portion 1B.1 forms a solid cup, the tabs 1B.3 can be positioned in continuity with the curved portion and preferably equidistant from each other (variant not shown in these figures).

Preferably, each tab 1B.3 has a length Ll of between 2.8 mm and 5mm, more preferably between 2.8mm and 3.2mm, and a width ll between 1mm and 5mm, more preferably between 1.5mm and 4mm.

Advantageously, the tabs 1B.3 of the same connector 1 all have an identical shape and dimensions. Alternatively, the tabs 1B.3 of the same connector 1 may have different shapes and dimensions. Thus, the tabs 1B.3 may have a round, rectangular or cubic section, depending on the size of the connector 1 and/or the desired function.

The connector 1 is made of metal, so as to be able to exert a heat sink effect. Advantageously, the connector 1 is made of a copper-based alloy. By copper-based alloy is meant an alloy which comprises a minimum percentage of copper of at least 5% by weight, and more preferably of at least 50% by weight. Alternatively, only the tabs 1B.3 are made of copper, the remainder of the connector 1 being made of various metallic materials.

Alternatively, the connector 1 may be made of different materials. The connector 1 may for example consist of a layer of nickel covered by a layer of tin. Advantageously, the layer of tin is an external layer of the connector 1.

There shows a view of three connectors according to the first embodiment of the invention mounted on a printed circuit.

The connector(s) 1 according to the invention are therefore configured to be mounted on a printed circuit 3. The printed circuit 3 according to the invention comprises at least one support 3A, generally made of a plastic material, said support 3A comprising a first face 3A.1 and a second face (the second face not being visible in FIGS. 3b and 4). Electrical and/or electronic components 5 are fixed to the first face 3A.1 of the support 3A. Some of these components 5 are power components 5A, i.e. components 5A which produce high heat, this heat preferably having to be diffused so as to avoid deterioration of the various components 5 of the printed circuit 3. The support 3A also has copper layers making it possible to electrically connect the components (5; 5A) together. For the sake of simplification, these layers are not shown in the drawings. Advantageously, the printed circuit 3 according to the invention comprises a plurality of connectors 1.

These connectors 1 are therefore preferably positioned close to the 5A power components, in order to best perform their heat sink function. Preferably, the connectors 1 are positioned less than 5mm, more preferably, at most 2mm, from the 5A power components whose heat they must dissipate. The heat will thus be diffused from the head 1B of connector 1 to the pin (not visible in this figure) integrated in a motor 7.

The connectors 1 are also intended to allow an electrical connection with the motor 7. Thus, the printed circuit 3 is positioned against the motor 7 and will enable the various functions of said motor 7 to be activated. More particularly, it is the second face of the printed circuit 3 which is oriented towards the motor 7. This motor 7 is advantageously a three-phase motor 7, which can in particular be used to operate a motor vehicle fan (the fan not being shown in these figures). In addition, a mechanical connection between the printed circuit 3 and the motor 7 is allowed thanks to the pins of the connector 1 (said pins not being visible in this figure). Preferably, when the connectors 1 are according to the first embodiment of the invention, they are particularly effective in a three-phase motor 7 whose power is between 400W and 500W, because they couple good heat dissipation with a good electrical and mechanical connection.

Figures 3a and 3b show enlarged views of the connector head according to the first embodiment of the invention, mounted on the printed circuit shown in transparency.

In these two figures, the pin 1A and the tabs 1B.3 of the connector 1 are configured to pass through the printed circuit 3, so that the connector 1 can form the heat sink for the power components (said components not being shown in figures 3a and 3b). The passage of the tabs 1B.3 and the pin 1A is allowed thanks to the presence of a set of holes 3B provided for this purpose in the printed circuit 3.

A set of orifices 3B is provided for each connector 1 to be installed on the printed circuit 3. Thus, each set of orifices 3B comprises a central orifice 3B.1 and at least three eccentric orifices 3B.2 relative to said central orifice 3B.1. The central orifice 3B.1 more specifically allows the fitting of the pin 1A of the connector 1. Each of the eccentric orifices 3B.2 is configured to allow the protruding passage of one of the tabs 1B.3 of the corresponding connector 1. Alternatively, if the number of tabs 1B.3 provided is two, only two eccentric orifices 3B.2 will be provided near the central orifice 3B.1.

In figures 3a and 3b, the head 1B of connector 1 is positioned on the first face 3A.1 (visible in the ) of the printed circuit 3, the pin 1A and at least one of the tabs 1B.3 protruding towards the second face 3A.2 (visible in the ) of said circuit 3. Advantageously, at least one of the tabs 1B.3 passes through the printed circuit 3 in a protruding manner. The protrusion of at least one of the tabs 1B.3 is advantageously at least 1.2 mm. Preferably, all of the tabs 1B.3 are protruding.

Thus, when the connector 1 is mounted on the printed circuit 3, the support zone(s) 1B.2bi of the branches 1B.2 are configured to come into abutment against said circuit 3, and, more particularly, against the first face 3A.1 of the printed circuit 3. This configuration improves the stability of the connector 1 on the printed circuit 3.

There shows a sectional view of the connector according to the first embodiment of the invention, mounted on the printed circuit.

When the connector 1 is mounted on the printed circuit 3, the head 1B of said connector 1 is positioned at a distance dc from said circuit 3, and more particularly, at a distance dc from the first face 3A.1 of said circuit 3. This distance dc between the flat central portion 1B.1 of the head 1B of the connector 1 and the printed circuit 3 is preferably between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, and more preferably between 2 mm and 4 mm.

The minimum dc distance allows air to circulate between the connector 1B head and the printed circuit 3, and therefore allows heat dissipation of the power components located near the connector 1 (said components not being visible at the ). A maximum dc distance allows to limit the total thickness of the printed circuit 3.

There shows a view of the connectors according to a first embodiment of the invention, mounted on the printed circuit, and before soldering.

Different methods may be used to attach the connectors 1 to the printed circuit board 3. The preferred method is soldering, and more preferably, the wave soldering method. Alternatively, other methods known to those skilled in the art may be envisaged.

Preferably, at least one of the tabs (the tabs not being visible in this figure) of each connector 1 is fixed to the printed circuit 3 by welding. More preferably, in order to allow better resistance to forces, the three tabs are fixed to the printed circuit 3 by welding.

To perform the welding, at least two portions of solder paste 9 per tab are positioned on the first face 3A.1 of the printed circuit 3. Preferably, these two portions 9 of solder paste are positioned on each side of a tab. During soldering, the solder paste 9 will be introduced by capillarity into the orifice (said orifice not being visible in this figure) so as to weld the corresponding tab to the printed circuit 3. The two sections of solder paste 9 allow the solder to surround the entire tab. Preferably, the volume of solder paste 9 desired per tab is between 5mm ³ and 7mm ³ , and more preferably, the volume is approximately 6mm ³ . Preferably, the material chosen for performing the welding is copper.

Additionally, soldering around the pin of each connector 1 can also be provided (the pin not being visible in this figure).

This type of welding allows for better reliability and repeatability of the welding procedure. The weld is more efficient, more durable and its execution is better controlled.

Alternatively, soldering can be performed on the second side of the printed circuit board 3 (the second side is not visible in this figure). In this case, the protrusion of one of the tabs is important to achieve proper soldering.

Figures 6 and 7 show a connector according to a second embodiment of the invention, alone or mounted on a printed circuit. These figures repeat the numbering of the preceding figures 1 to 5 for identical or similar elements, the numbering being however incremented by 100. Reference is also made to the description of these elements in relation to the first embodiment of the invention.

The general characteristics of a connector 101 are similar to those previously described in the first embodiment. Thus, the connector 101 according to the second embodiment of the invention also comprises a pin 101A and a head 101B of connector 101, said head 101B comprising a flat central portion 101B.1 and branches 101B.2 on which tabs 101B.3 are positioned. The first and second ends (101A.1, 101A.2) of the pin 101A are also visible.

Thus, each branch 101B.2 comprises a substantially flat portion 101B.2a and a curved portion 101B.2b as previously described. On the other hand, one of the branches 101B.2 of the connector 101 is a separate branch 101B.2’, which has a length Lb’ greater than the length Lb of the other branches 101B.2. Advantageously, the length Lb’ is at least twice as long, more preferably three times as long as the length Lb of the other branches 101B.2. Thus, the length Lb’ is preferably between 2mm and 20mm. Alternatively, the head 101B of the connector 101 may comprise more than one separate branch 101B.2’.

So, as we can see in the , the separate branch 101B.2' may extend close to the power components 105A mounted on the printed circuit 103, and whose connectors 101 must dissipate heat. This type of connector 101 is particularly effective in three-phase motors whose power is significantly higher than the aforementioned motors (said motor not being shown in the ). In particular, motors with a power of 600W to 650W could benefit from such 101 connectors. Indeed, the 105A power components of these motors produce more heat since they are more powerful. Also, a more efficient 101 connector could improve heat dissipation and reduce damage caused by the emitted heat.

The arrangement of the various elements and/or means and/or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and/or means and/or steps, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Further, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be combined with one or more other features disclosed only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be generalized to other embodiments, even if such feature or features are disclosed only in combination with other features.

The use of the verb “to comprise”, “to understand” or “to include” and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or other steps than those set out in a claim.

Claims (10)

Connector (1; 101) for a printed circuit (3; 103), the connector (1; 101) being configured to allow an electrical connection with a motor (7), the connector (1; 101) comprising:

• a pin (1A; 101A) extending longitudinally along a main axis (Ap), and
• a connector head (1B; 101B) fixed to one end (1A.1; 101A.1) of the pin (1A; 101A), extending in a plane perpendicular (Pp) to said main axis (Ap) of the pin (1A; 101A), the head (1B; 101B) comprising at least three tabs (1B.3; 101B.3) each extending along a secondary longitudinal axis (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ) parallel to the main axis (Ap) of the pin (1A; 101A),

characterized in thatthe tabs (1B.3; 101B.3) all extend from the same side of the connector head (1B; 101B) such that said tabs (1B.3; 101B.3), as well as the pin (1A; 101A), are configured to pass through the printed circuit (3; 103),
and in thatthe connector (1; 101) is made of metal so as to form a heat sink for the printed circuit (3; 103). Connector (1; 101) according to claim 1, wherein the head (1B; 101B) of the connector (1; 101) further comprises a flat central portion (1B.1; 101B.1) from which extend at least three branches (1B.2; 101B.2, 101B.2') ending respectively with at least one tab (1B.3; 101B.3). Connector (1; 101) according to claim 2, in which each branch (1B.2; 101B.2, 101B.2') comprises at least one curved portion (1B.2b; 101B.2b) so as to orient each tab (1B.3; 101B.3) along their respective secondary longitudinal axis (As ₁ , As ₂ , As ₃ ). Connector (1; 101) according to claim 3, in which the curved portion (1B.2b; 101B.2b) comprises at least one support zone (1B.2bi) configured to come into abutment against the printed circuit (3; 103) when the connector (1; 101) is mounted on said circuit (3; 103). Connector (1; 101) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the tabs (1B.3; 101B.3) of the connector (1; 101) all have an identical shape and dimensions. Connector (101) according to one of claims 2 to 4, in which at least one of the branches (101B.2, 101B.2’), called separate branch (101B.2’), has a length (Lb’) greater than the other branches (101B.2). Printed circuit (3; 103), said printed circuit (3; 103) comprising at least one connector (1; 101) configured to allow an electrical connection with a motor (7) and electrical and/or electronic components (5; 105) fixed to said circuit (3; 103), said components (5; 105) comprising power components (5A; 105A), characterized in that the connector (1; 101) is according to one of the preceding claims. Printed circuit (3; 103) according to claim 7, wherein the printed circuit (3; 103) comprises a first face (3A.1) on which the electrical and/or electronic components (5; 105) are fixed, and a second face (3A.2) configured to be oriented towards the motor (7). Printed circuit (3; 103) according to claim 8, in which at least one of the tabs (1B.3; 101B.3) protrudes through the printed circuit (3; 103) by at least 1.2 mm so as to allow welding of said tab (1B.3; 101B.3) at or on the second face (3A.2) of the printed circuit (3; 103), and/or at or on the first face (3A.1) of the printed circuit (3; 103). Three-phase motor (7) comprising at least one printed circuit (3; 103), characterized in that the printed circuit (3; 103) is according to one of claims 7 to 9.