Flat cable assembly and rotary connector device

Abstract

The cable connector assembly (30) includes a cable connector (31), a first flat cable (32), and a second flat cable (33). The first flat cable (32) includes a first conductor exposed portion (32B). The second flat cable (33) includes a second conductor exposed portion (33B). The cable connector (31) includes a restricting portion (37) capable of contacting the first flat cable (32) to restrict movement of the first conductor exposed portion (32B) toward the second conductor exposed portion (33B) in the first direction (D1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in the present application relates to a flat cable assembly and a rotary connector device. Background Art

[0002] In the rotary connector described in Patent Document 1, two flat cables are stacked up and down, and a folded end portion is formed at a position adjacent to the cutout portion of the lower flat cable, and the folded end portion is inserted into a slit provided in an insulating substrate, thereby preventing the conductor cut surfaces of the two flat cables from short-circuiting with each other.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5833522 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in the case of a structure in which the folded end of the flat cable is inserted into the slit of the insulating substrate, the assembly operation is complicated and may increase the cost. In addition, when the slit described in Patent Document 1 is provided in the insulating substrate, the structure of the mold may become complicated, which may increase the cost.

[0008] An object of the technology disclosed in the present application is to provide a cable connector assembly that can suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent a short circuit between a first flat cable and a second flat cable.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] According to the first feature, the cable connector assembly includes a cable connector, a first flat cable, and a second flat cable. The cable connector includes: a first bus bar having conductivity; a second bus bar having conductivity; and a connector body having electrical insulation, and the connector body partially covers the first bus bar and the second bus bar. The first flat cable includes: a first conductor connection portion electrically connected to the first bus bar; and a first conductor exposure portion provided at a position different from the position of the first conductor connection portion. The second flat cable includes: a second conductor connection portion electrically connected to the second bus bar; and a second conductor exposure portion provided at a position different from the position of the second conductor connection portion. The cable connector includes a first surface and a second surface provided on the back side of the first surface in the first direction. The first flat cable is configured to partially overlap with the second flat cable when viewed from the first direction. The second flat cable is partially provided between the first surface and the first flat cable in the first direction. The cable connector includes a restriction portion that can come into contact with the first flat cable to restrict movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction.

[0011] In the cable connector assembly of the first feature, the restriction portion restricts the first conductor exposed portion from moving in the first direction toward the second conductor exposed portion, so that the first conductor exposed portion and the second conductor exposed portion can be short-circuited or prevented by a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0012] According to the second feature, in the cable connector assembly of the first feature, the restriction portion is arranged so as to partially overlap the first flat cable when viewed from the first direction. The restriction portion is arranged so as not to overlap the second flat cable when viewed from the first direction.

[0013] In the cable connector assembly of the second feature, the restriction portion is configured to partially overlap the first flat cable when viewed from the first direction, and is configured not to overlap the second flat cable when viewed from the first direction, so that the first flat cable and the second flat cable can be suppressed or prevented from short-circuiting in a state where the second flat cable is brought close to the cable connector. Therefore, the size of the restriction portion can be made relatively small, and an increase in manufacturing cost can be reliably suppressed, and the first flat cable and the second flat cable can be suppressed or prevented from short-circuiting.

[0014] According to the third feature, in the cable connector assembly of the first feature, the restriction portion protrudes from the first surface of the connector body in the first direction.

[0015] In the cable connector assembly of the third feature, the limiting portion protrudes from the first surface of the connector body in the first direction, so the limiting portion can be relatively simple in structure. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0016] According to the fourth feature, in the cable connector assembly of the third feature, the first flat cable has a first thickness defined in the first direction when the first conductor connecting portion is electrically connected to the first bus bar. The second flat cable has a second thickness defined in the first direction when the second conductor connecting portion is electrically connected to the second bus bar. The restriction portion has a protruding length defined in the first direction from the first surface. The protruding length is longer than the second thickness.

[0017] In the cable connector assembly of the fourth feature, the protruding length is longer than the second thickness, so the distance between the first conductor exposed portion and the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction can be ensured to be long. Therefore, the first conductor exposed portion can be separated from the second conductor exposed portion simply by arranging the first flat cable and the second flat cable on the first surface of the cable connector. Therefore, the assembly work can be simplified, the increase in manufacturing cost can be reliably suppressed, and the short circuit between the first flat cable and the second flat cable can be reliably suppressed or prevented.

[0018] According to the fifth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the fourth feature, the protruding length is longer than the sum of the first thickness and the second thickness.

[0019] In the cable connector assembly of the fifth feature, the protruding length is longer than the sum of the first thickness and the second thickness, so that the distance between the first conductor exposed portion and the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction can be ensured to be longer. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and more reliably suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0020] According to the sixth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifth features, the restriction portion is provided integrally with the connector body.

[0021] In the cable connector assembly of the sixth aspect, it is possible to suppress or prevent an increase in manufacturing cost due to the restriction portion.

[0022] According to the seventh feature, in the cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifth features, the first conductor exposed portion is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the second conductor exposed portion when viewed from the first direction.

[0023] In the cable connector assembly of the seventh aspect, by overlapping the first flat cable and the second flat cable, the space occupied by the first flat cable and the second flat cable can be reduced, and the cable connector assembly can be miniaturized.

[0024] According to the eighth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifth features, the first flat cable includes: a main body including the first conductor connecting portion; and an overlapping portion at least partially including the first conductor exposed portion, and the overlapping portion is configured to at least partially overlap the second conductor exposed portion when viewed from the first direction. The limiting portion can contact the overlapping portion to limit movement of the overlapping portion in the first direction toward the second conductor exposed portion.

[0025] In the cable connector assembly of the eighth aspect, the restriction portion restricts movement of the overlapping portion in the first direction toward the second conductor exposed portion, thereby suppressing an increase in manufacturing cost and reliably suppressing or preventing the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0026] According to a ninth aspect, in the cable connector assembly according to the eighth aspect, the restriction portion includes a contact surface that can contact the overlapping portion. The contact surface includes an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the first direction.

[0027] In the cable connector assembly of the ninth feature, the inclined surface is provided on the restricting portion, thereby suppressing an increase in the space occupied by the restricting portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent a short circuit between the first flat cable and the second flat cable while reliably suppressing an increase in manufacturing cost.

[0028] According to the tenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the eighth feature, the overlapping portion is inclined relative to the main body portion in a state in which the restriction portion restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion.

[0029] In the cable connector assembly of the tenth feature, the overlapping portion is inclined relative to the main body, so that the space occupied by the overlapping portion can be suppressed from increasing. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting while reliably suppressing an increase in manufacturing cost.

[0030] According to the eleventh feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the eighth feature, the overlapping portion protrudes from the main body portion when viewed from the first direction in a state in which the restriction portion restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion.

[0031] In the cable connector assembly of the eleventh feature, the overlapping portion need not be bent in advance, so the operation of attaching the first flat cable to the cable connector is relatively easy. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent a short circuit between the first flat cable and the second flat cable.

[0032] According to the twelfth feature, in the cable connector assembly of the eighth feature, the restriction portion includes a support groove capable of contacting the overlapping portion to restrict movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction. The overlapping portion is at least partially disposed in the support groove.

[0033] In the cable connector assembly of the twelfth feature, the support groove can be used to restrict the movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion, so the restriction portion can be realized by a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0034] According to the thirteenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the twelfth feature, the overlapping portion is arranged in the support groove in a state of being bent relative to the main body portion.

[0035] In the cable connector assembly of the thirteenth feature, the support groove can support the overlapped portion by utilizing the elastic force of the overlapped portion, so the restriction portion can be realized by a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to reliably suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0036] According to the fourteenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the thirteenth feature, the overlapping portion is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the main body portion in a state where the overlapping portion is arranged in the support groove when viewed from the first direction.

[0037] In the cable connector assembly of the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to suppress an increase in the space occupied by the overlapping portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent a short circuit between the first flat cable and the second flat cable while reliably suppressing an increase in manufacturing cost.

[0038] According to the fifteenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifth features, the cable connector assembly further comprises a retaining portion provided on the restricting portion. The retaining portion can contact the first flat cable to restrict the first conductor exposed portion from moving away from the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction.

[0039] In the cable connector assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the position of the first conductor exposed portion relative to the second conductor exposed portion is further stabilized by the holding portion.

[0040] According to the sixteenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the fifteenth feature, the holding portion protrudes from the restriction portion in the first direction.

[0041] In the cable connector assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, the holding portion can be realized with a simple structure.

[0042] According to the seventeenth feature, in the cable connector assembly according to the sixteenth feature, the first flat cable includes a holding opening, and the holding portion protrudes from the restriction portion through the holding opening in the first direction.

[0043] In the cable connector assembly according to the seventeenth aspect, the holding portion can be realized with a simpler structure.

[0044] According to the eighteenth feature, the rotary connector device includes: a stator; a rotor rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the stator; and the cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifth features.

[0045] In the rotary connector device according to the eighteenth aspect, by using the cable connector assembly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the manufacturing cost of the rotary connector device and suppress or prevent the first flat cable and the second flat cable from short-circuiting.

[0046] Effects of the Invention

[0047] According to the technology disclosed in the present application, it is possible to provide a cable connector assembly that can suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent a short circuit between a first flat cable and a second flat cable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] Figure 1 This is the upper surface of the rotatable connector device according to the first embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a rotary connector device is shown.

[0050] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a cable connector assembly of a rotary connector device shown.

[0051] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded plan view of the cable connector assembly is shown.

[0052] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A partial perspective view of the first flat cable of the cable connector assembly shown.

[0053] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A partial perspective view of the second flat cable of the cable connector assembly shown.

[0054] Figure 7 is along Figure 8 sectional view of the cable connector assembly of line VII-VII.

[0055] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A partial plan view of the cable connector assembly is shown.

[0056] Fig. 9 is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a cable connector assembly of an IX-IX line.

[0057] Fig.10 It is a partial plan view of the cable connector assembly according to the second embodiment.

[0058] Fig.11 is along Fig.10 sectional view of the cable connector assembly of the XI-XI line.

[0059] Fig.12 It is a partial plan view of a cable connector assembly according to a third embodiment.

[0060] Fig.13 is along Fig.12 sectional view of the cable connector assembly of line XIII-XIII.

[0061] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A partial perspective view of a cable connector of the cable connector assembly is shown.

[0062] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional view of a cable connector assembly according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals represent corresponding or identical structures.

[0064] First Embodiment

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, the rotary connector device 2 includes a stator 10 and a rotor 20. The stator 10 is configured to be mounted on a vehicle body. The rotor 20 is rotatable around a rotation axis relative to the stator 10. The rotor 20 is configured to be connected to a steering wheel.

[0066] The rotary connector device 2 includes a cable connector assembly 30. The cable connector assembly 30 includes a cable connector 31. The cable connector assembly 30 includes a cable connector 39. The cable connector 39 has a structure substantially the same as that of the cable connector 31. Therefore, here, the cable connector 31 is described, and the description of the cable connector 39 is omitted. The description of the cable connector 31 can be used as the description of the cable connector 39.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the rotary connector device 2 includes a cable connector assembly 130. The cable connector assembly 130 includes a cable connector 131 and a cable connector 139. The cable connector assembly 130 has a structure substantially the same as that of the cable connector assembly 30. The cable connector 131 and the cable connector 139 have a structure substantially the same as that of the cable connector 31. Therefore, here, the cable connector assembly 30 is described, and the description of the cable connector assembly 130 is omitted. The description of the cable connector assembly 30 can be used as the description of the cable connector assembly 130.

[0068] The stator 10 includes a connector mounting portion 41. The rotor 20 includes a connector mounting portion 49. The cable connector 31 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 41. The cable connector 39 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 49.

[0069] The cable connector 31, the cable connector 131 and the connector mounting portion 41 constitute an electrical connector EC1. The cable connector 39, the cable connector 139 and the connector mounting portion 49 constitute an electrical connector EC9. The electrical connector EC1 is configured to be detachably mounted on the vehicle body side connector. The vehicle body side connector is electrically connected to a circuit of a control device, etc. The electrical connector EC9 is configured to be detachably mounted on the steering side connector. The steering side connector is electrically connected to a circuit of a switch of a steering wheel and an airbag device, etc. The vehicle body side connector and the steering side connector may also be referred to as external connectors.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the stator 10 and the rotor 20 form a cable storage space 50, and the cable storage space 50 is arranged to surround the rotation axis A1. For example, the cable storage space 50 is annular and extends along the circumferential direction D4 relative to the rotation axis A1.

[0071] The cable connector assembly 30 includes a first flat cable 32 and a second flat cable 33. The first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 are connected to a cable connector 31 (see, for example, Figure 1 ) are electrically connected. The first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 are electrically connected to the cable connector 39 (for example, see Figure 1 That is, the first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 respectively connect the cable connector 31 to the cable connector 39 (for example, see Figure 1 )Electrical connection.

[0072] The first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 are arranged in the cable storage space 50. The first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 are respectively wound along the outer cylindrical portion 10A of the stator 10 and the inner cylindrical portion 20A of the rotor 20 so that the electrical connection between the cable connector 31 and the cable connector 39 is not disconnected even if the rotor 20 rotates relative to the stator 10.

[0073] Similarly, the cable connector assembly 130 includes a first flat cable 132 and a second flat cable 133. The first flat cable 132 and the second flat cable 133 are connected to a cable connector 131 (see, for example, Figure 1 ) are electrically connected. The first flat cable 132 and the second flat cable 133 are electrically connected to a cable connector 139 (for example, see Figure 1 That is, the first flat cable 132 and the second flat cable 133 respectively connect the cable connector 131 to the cable connector 139 (for example, see Figure 1 )Electrical connection.

[0074] The first flat cable 132 and the second flat cable 133 are arranged in the cable storage space 50. The first flat cable 132 and the second flat cable 133 are respectively wound along the outer cylindrical portion 10A of the stator 10 and the inner cylindrical portion 20A of the rotor 20 so that the electrical connection between the cable connector 131 and the cable connector 139 is not disconnected even if the rotor 20 rotates relative to the stator 10.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, the cable connector 31 includes a first bus bar 34A, a second bus bar 35A, and a connector body 36. In the present embodiment, the cable connector 31 also includes a first bus bar 34B and a second bus bar 35B. However, the total number of bus bars is not limited to the present embodiment. For example, at least one of the first bus bar 34B and the second bus bar 35B may be omitted from the cable connector 31, or the cable connector 31 may include other bus bars in addition to the first bus bars 34A, 34B or the second bus bars 35A, 35B.

[0076] The first bus bar 34A has conductivity. The first bus bar 34A includes a conductive material. The first bus bar 34B has conductivity. The first bus bar 34B includes a conductive material.

[0077] The second bus bar 35A has conductivity. The second bus bar 35A includes a conductive material. The second bus bar 35B has conductivity. The second bus bar 35B includes a conductive material.

[0078] The connector body 36 has electrical insulation properties and partially covers the first bus bar 34A and the second bus bar 35A. The connector body 36 partially covers the first bus bars 34A and 34B and the second bus bars 35A and 35B. The connector body 36 is made of an electrical insulating material.

[0079] The first bus bar 34A is partially exposed from the connector body 36. The second bus bar 35A is partially exposed from the connector body 36. The first bus bar 34B is partially exposed from the connector body 36. The second bus bar 35B is partially exposed from the connector body 36. For example, the first bus bars 34A, 34B and the second bus bars 35A, 35B are embedded in the connector body 36 by insert molding. However, the first bus bars 34A, 34B and the second bus bars 35A, 35B may be embedded in the connector body 36 by a method other than insert molding.

[0080] The first bus bar 34A includes a first connection pin 34PA and a first cable connection portion 34CA. The first connection pin 34PA is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to a conductor of a connector on the vehicle body side or the steering side. The first connection pin 34PA protrudes from the connector body 36. The first cable connection portion 34CA is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to the first flat cable 32.

[0081] The first bus bar 34B includes a first connection pin 34PB and a first cable connection portion 34CB. The first connection pin 34PB is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to a conductor of a connector on the vehicle body side or the steering side. The first connection pin 34PB protrudes from the connector body 36. The first cable connection portion 34CB is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to the first flat cable 32.

[0082] The second bus bar 35A includes a second connection pin 35PA and a second cable connection portion 35CA. The second connection pin 35PA is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to a conductor of a connector on the vehicle body side or the steering side. The second connection pin 35PA protrudes from the connector body 36. The second cable connection portion 35CA is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to the second flat cable 33.

[0083] The second bus bar 35B includes a second connection pin 35PB and a second cable connection portion 35CB. The second connection pin 35PB is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to a conductor of a connector on the vehicle body side or the steering side. The second connection pin 35PB protrudes from the connector body 36. The second cable connection portion 35CB is exposed from the connector body 36 so as to be electrically connected to the second flat cable 33.

[0084] like Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , the first flat cable 32 has flexibility and a flat shape. The first flat cable 32 may also be referred to as a first flexible flat cable 32 .

[0085] The second flat cable 33 has flexibility and a flat shape. The second flat cable 33 may also be referred to as a second flexible flat cable 33 .

[0086] The first flat cable 32 includes a first conductor connection portion 32A and a first conductor exposed portion 32B. The first conductor connection portion 32A is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A. The first conductor connection portion 32A is electrically connected to the first bus bars 34A and 34B. For example, the first conductor connection portion 32A is connected to the first bus bars 34A and 34B by welding. However, the first conductor connection portion 32A may be electrically connected to the first bus bars 34A and 34B by other methods.

[0087] The first conductor exposed portion 32B is provided at a position different from the position of the first conductor connecting portion 32A. For example, the first conductor exposed portion 32B is provided along a portion of the contour of the first flat cable 32 .

[0088] The second flat cable 33 is flexible and has a flat shape. The second flat cable 33 may also be referred to as a second flexible flat cable. The second flat cable 33 includes a second conductor connection portion 33A and a second conductor exposed portion 33B. The second conductor connection portion 33A is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A. The second conductor connection portion 33A is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35B. For example, the second conductor connection portion 33A is connected to the second bus bars 35A and 35B by welding. However, the second conductor connection portion 33A may also be electrically connected to the second bus bars 35A and 35B by other methods.

[0089] The second conductor exposed portion 33B is provided at a position different from the position of the second conductor connecting portion 33A. For example, the second conductor exposed portion 33B is provided along a portion of the contour of the second flat cable 33 .

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, in the present embodiment, the first flat cable 32 includes a first conductor 32C and a first insulating cover 32D. The first conductor 32C includes a conductive material. The first insulating cover 32D includes an electrically insulating material and partially covers the first conductor 32C. The first conductor 32C is exposed from the first insulating cover 32D at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first conductor 32C is exposed from the first insulating cover 32D at the first conductor exposure portion 32B. The first conductor 32C is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A. The first insulating cover 32D includes a first insulator 32D1 and a first insulator 32D2. The first conductor 32C is arranged between the first insulator 32D1 and the first insulator 32D2.

[0091] For example, the first conductor connection portion 32A is formed by not forming the first insulating cover 32D on the first conductor 32C, or by peeling off a portion of the first insulating cover 32D from the first conductor 32C. On the other hand, the first conductor exposed portion 32B is provided on a cut surface formed when the first flat cable 32 is cut from a flat cable material.

[0092] The first flat cable 32 includes a first additional conductor 32E. The first insulating cover 32D partially covers the first additional conductor 32E. The first additional conductor 32E is exposed from the first insulating cover 32D at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first additional conductor 32E is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34B at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first additional conductor 32E is connected to the first cable connection portion 34CB at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first additional conductor 32E is not exposed from the first insulating cover 32D at the first conductor exposure portion 32B. However, the first additional conductor 32E may be exposed from the first insulating cover 32D at the first conductor exposure portion 32B.

[0093] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the second flat cable 33 includes a second conductor 33C and a second insulating cover 33D. The second conductor 33C includes a conductive material. The second insulating cover 33D includes an electrically insulating material and partially covers the second conductor 33C. The second conductor 33C is exposed from the second insulating cover 33D at the second conductor connecting portion 33A. The second conductor 33C is exposed from the second insulating cover 33D at the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The second conductor 33C is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A. The second insulating cover 33D includes a second insulator 33D1 and a second insulator 33D2. The second conductor 33C is arranged between the second insulator 33D1 and the second insulator 33D2.

[0094] For example, the second conductor connection portion 33A is formed by not forming the second insulating cover 33D on the second conductor 33C, or by peeling off a portion of the second insulating cover 33D from the second conductor 33C. On the other hand, the second conductor exposed portion 33B is provided on a cut surface formed when the second flat cable 33 is cut from a flat cable material.

[0095] The second flat cable 33 includes a second additional conductor 33E. The second additional conductor 33E is partially covered by the second insulating cover 33D. The second additional conductor 33E is exposed from the second insulating cover 33D at the second conductor connection portion 33A. The second additional conductor 33E is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35B at the second conductor connection portion 33A. The second additional conductor 33E is connected to the second cable connection portion 35CB at the second conductor connection portion 33A. The second additional conductor 33E is not exposed from the second insulating cover 33D at the second conductor exposure portion 33B. However, the second additional conductor 33E may be exposed from the second insulating cover 33D at the second conductor exposure portion 33B.

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown, the first conductor 32C is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first conductor 32C is connected to the first cable connection portion 34CA at the first conductor connection portion 32A.

[0097] The first additional conductor 32E is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34B at the first conductor connection portion 32A. The first additional conductor 32E is connected to the first cable connection portion 34CB at the first conductor connection portion 32A.

[0098] The second conductor 33C is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A at the second conductor connection portion 33A. The second conductor 33C is connected to the second cable connection portion 35CA at the second conductor connection portion 33A.

[0099] The second additional conductor 33E is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35B at the second conductor connection portion 33A. The second additional conductor 33E is connected to the second cable connection portion 35CB at the second conductor connection portion 33A.

[0100] like Figure 7 As shown, the cable connector 31 includes a first surface 31A and a second surface 31B provided on the back side of the first surface 31A in the first direction D1. The first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 are provided on the first surface 31A. The connector body 36 includes the first surface 31A and the second surface 31B. The first direction D1 corresponds to Figure 7 The up and down directions in .

[0101] The second flat cable 33 is partially provided in the first direction D1 between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32. In the present embodiment, the second flat cable 33 is partially provided in the first direction D1 between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32. However, the second flat cable 33 may be provided entirely in the first direction D1 between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32.

[0102] like Figure 8As shown, the first flat cable 32 is configured to partially overlap with the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The first conductor connecting portion 32A is configured not to overlap with the second conductor connecting portion 33A when viewed from the first direction D1. The first conductor connecting portion 32A is configured to be spaced apart from the second conductor connecting portion 33A in the second direction D2 when viewed from the first direction D1. The second direction D2 is perpendicular to the first direction D1. The first conductor connecting portion 32A is provided at an end of the first flat cable 32. The second conductor connecting portion 33A is provided at an end of the second flat cable 33. The first flat cable 32 extends from the first conductor connecting portion 32A in the third direction D3. The second flat cable 33 extends from the second conductor connecting portion 33A in the third direction D3. The third direction D3 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The second direction D2 corresponds to Figure 8 The third direction D3 corresponds to Figure 8 The up and down directions in .

[0103] The first conductor exposed portion 32B is configured to at least partially overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the first conductor exposed portion 32B is configured to partially overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the first conductor exposed portion 32B may be configured to entirely overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0104] The first flat cable 32 includes a main body 32F and an overlapping portion 32G. The main body 32F includes the first conductor connection portion 32A. The overlapping portion 32G at least partially includes the first conductor exposed portion 32B, and is configured to at least partially overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 32G is configured to partially overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be configured to overlap with the second conductor exposed portion 33B as a whole when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0105] The first flat cable 32 includes a slit 32S provided between the main body 32F and the overlapping portion 32G. The main body 32F includes a first main body 32FA and a second main body 32FB. The first main body 32FA includes a first conductor connecting portion 32A. The second main body 32FB extends from the first main body 32FA. The overlapping portion 32G extends from the second main body 32FB. The slit 32S is provided between the first main body 32FA and the overlapping portion 32G in the second direction D2. The slit 32S may also be a cutout.

[0106] like Fig. 9As shown, the cable connector 31 includes a restriction portion 37. The restriction portion 37 can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. The restriction portion 37 protrudes from the first surface 31A of the connector body 36 in the first direction D1.

[0107] In the present embodiment, the restricting portion 37 is provided integrally with the connector body 36 as one component. However, the restricting portion 37 may be a component separate from the connector body 36. In this case, for example, the restricting portion 37 is attached to the connector body 36 by an attachment structure such as bonding or press-fitting.

[0108] The limiting portion 37 can contact the overlapping portion 32G to limit the overlapping portion 32G from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the limiting portion 37 includes a contact surface 37A that can contact the overlapping portion 32G. The contact surface 37A includes an inclined surface 37B that is inclined relative to the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is inclined relative to the main body 32F in a state where the limiting portion 37 limits the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G is inclined relative to the main body 32F in a state where it is in contact with the inclined surface 37B. However, the inclined surface 37B may be omitted from the contact surface 37A. The contact surface 37A may also be configured not to be inclined relative to the first direction D1.

[0109] like Fig. 9 As shown, the first flat cable 32 has a first thickness W1 defined in the first direction D1 when the first conductor connecting portion 32A is electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A. The second flat cable 33 has a second thickness W2 defined in the first direction D1 when the second conductor connecting portion 33A is electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A. The limiting portion 37 has a protruding length L1 defined in the first direction D1 from the first surface 31A. The protruding length L1 is longer than the second thickness W2. In the present embodiment, the protruding length L1 is longer than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2. However, the protruding length L1 may be less than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2.

[0110] like Figure 8As shown in FIG. 1 , the restriction portion 37 is arranged so as to partially overlap the first flat cable 32 when viewed from the first direction D1. The restriction portion 37 is arranged so as not to overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the restriction portion 37 when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to partially overlap the restriction portion 37 when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be arranged so as to entirely overlap the restriction portion 37 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0111] The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 37 restricts the movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body 32F toward the first conductor connecting portion 32A when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 37 restricts the movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G is configured so as not to overlap with the main body 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 37 restricts the movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be configured so as to protrude from the main body 32F in other directions. The overlapping portion 32G may be configured so as to at least partially overlap with the main body 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 37 restricts the movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B.

[0112] As described above, the cable connector assembly 30 includes the cable connector 31, the first flat cable 32, and the second flat cable 33. The cable connector 31 includes: the first bus bar 34A having conductivity; the second bus bar 35A having conductivity; and the connector body 36 having electrical insulation and partially covering the first bus bar 34A and the second bus bar 35A. The first flat cable 32 includes: the first conductor connection portion 32A electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A; and the first conductor exposed portion 32B provided at a position different from the position of the first conductor connection portion 32A. The second flat cable 33 includes: the second conductor connection portion 33A electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A; and the second conductor exposed portion 33B provided at a position different from the position of the second conductor connection portion 33A. The cable connector 31 includes a first surface 31A and a second surface 31B provided on the back side of the first surface 31A in the first direction D1. The first flat cable 32 is arranged to partially overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The second flat cable 33 is partially provided between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32 in the first direction D1. The cable connector 31 includes a restriction portion 37 that can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1.

[0113] In the cable connector assembly 30, the restriction portion 37 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving in the first direction D1 toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B, so that the first conductor exposed portion 32B and the second conductor exposed portion 33B can be suppressed or prevented from short-circuiting with a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 from short-circuiting.

[0114] Second Embodiment

[0115] Below, refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 , a cable connector assembly 230 of the second embodiment will be described. The cable connector assembly 230 has substantially the same structure as the cable connector assembly 30 of the first embodiment except for the restriction portion 37. Therefore, the components having substantially the same structure as the components of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and for the sake of simplicity, they are not described and / or illustrated in detail.

[0116] like Fig.10 As shown, the cable connector assembly 230 includes a cable connector 231, a first flat cable 32, and a second flat cable 33. The cable connector 231 has substantially the same structure as the cable connector 31 of the first embodiment.

[0117] like Fig.11 As shown, the cable connector 231 includes a restricting portion 237. The restricting portion 237 can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. The restricting portion 237 protrudes from the first surface 31A of the connector body 36 in the first direction D1.

[0118] In the present embodiment, the restricting portion 237 is provided integrally with the connector body 36 as one component. However, the restricting portion 237 may be a component separate from the connector body 36. In this case, for example, the restricting portion 237 is attached to the connector body 36 by an attachment structure such as bonding or press-fitting.

[0119] The limiting portion 237 can contact the overlapping portion 32G to limit the movement of the overlapping portion 32G in the first direction D1 toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. In the present embodiment, the limiting portion 237 includes a support groove 237G, which can contact the overlapping portion 32G to limit the movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B in the first direction D1 toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G is at least partially disposed in the support groove 237G. The overlapping portion 32G is disposed in the support groove 237G in a state of being bent relative to the main body portion 32F.

[0120] The limiting portion 237 has a protruding length L2 defined in the first direction D1 from the first surface 31A. The protruding length L2 is longer than the second thickness W2. In the present embodiment, the protruding length L2 is longer than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2. However, the protruding length L2 may be less than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2.

[0121] like Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the restriction portion 237 is arranged so as to partially overlap the first flat cable 32 when viewed from the first direction D1. The restriction portion 237 is arranged so as not to overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the restriction portion 237 when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to partially overlap the restriction portion 237 when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be arranged so as to entirely overlap the restriction portion 237 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0122] The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 237 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body portion 32F toward the first conductor connecting portion 32A when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 237 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G is configured so as not to overlap with the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 237 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be configured so as to protrude from the main body portion 32F in other directions. The overlapping portion 32G may be arranged to at least partially overlap the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 237 restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B.

[0123] The overlapping portion 32G is configured to at least partially overlap the main body portion 32F when the overlapping portion 32G is arranged in the support groove 237G when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 32G is configured to partially overlap the main body portion 32F when the overlapping portion 32G is arranged in the support groove 237G when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be configured to overlap the main body portion 32F as a whole when the overlapping portion 32G is arranged in the support groove 237G when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0124] As described above, the cable connector assembly 230 includes the cable connector 31, the first flat cable 32, and the second flat cable 33. The cable connector 31 includes: the first bus bar 34A having conductivity; the second bus bar 35A having conductivity; and the connector body 36 having electrical insulation, and the connector body 36 partially covers the first bus bar 34A and the second bus bar 35A. The first flat cable 32 includes: the first conductor connecting portion 32A electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A; and the first conductor exposed portion 32B provided at a position different from the position of the first conductor connecting portion 32A. The second flat cable 33 includes: the second conductor connecting portion 33A electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A; and the second conductor exposed portion 33B provided at a position different from the position of the second conductor connecting portion 33A. The cable connector 31 includes a first surface 31A and a second surface 31B provided on the back side of the first surface 31A in the first direction D1. The first flat cable 32 is arranged to partially overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The second flat cable 33 is partially provided between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32 in the first direction D1. The cable connector 31 includes a restriction portion 237 that can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1.

[0125] In the cable connector assembly 230, the restriction portion 237 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving in the first direction D1 toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B, so that the first conductor exposed portion 32B and the second conductor exposed portion 33B can be suppressed or prevented from short-circuiting with a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 from short-circuiting.

[0126] Third Embodiment

[0127] Below, refer to Figure 12 to Figure 14 , a cable connector assembly 330 of the third embodiment will be described. The cable connector assembly 330 has substantially the same structure as the cable connector assembly 30 of the first embodiment except for the restriction portion 37. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components having substantially the same structure as the components of the first embodiment, and for simplicity, they are not described and / or illustrated in detail again.

[0128] like Fig.12 As shown, the cable connector assembly 330 includes a cable connector 331, a first flat cable 32, and a second flat cable 33. The cable connector 331 has substantially the same structure as the cable connector 31 of the first embodiment.

[0129] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cable connector 331 includes a restriction portion 337. The restriction portion 337 can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. The restriction portion 337 protrudes from the first surface 31A of the connector body 36 in the first direction D1. The restriction portion 337 has substantially the same structure as the restriction portion 37 of the first embodiment.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the restricting portion 337 is provided integrally with the connector body 36 as one component. However, the restricting portion 337 may be a component separate from the connector body 36. In this case, for example, the restricting portion 337 is attached to the connector body 36 by an attachment structure such as bonding or press-fitting.

[0131] The limiting portion 337 can contact the overlapping portion 32G to limit the overlapping portion 32G from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the limiting portion 337 includes a contact surface 337A that can contact the overlapping portion 32G. The contact surface 337A includes an inclined surface 337B that is inclined relative to the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is inclined relative to the main body 32F in a state where the limiting portion 337 limits the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The limiting portion 337 can contact the overlapping portion 32G to limit the overlapping portion 32G from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is inclined relative to the main body 32F in a state where it is in contact with the inclined surface 337B. However, the inclined surface 337B may be omitted from the contact surface 337A. The contact surface 337A may also be configured not to be inclined relative to the first direction D1.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the cable connector assembly 330 further includes a holding portion 339 provided on the limiting portion 337. The holding portion 339 can contact the first flat cable 32 to limit the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving away from the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. The holding portion 339 can contact the first flat cable 32 to limit the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1. That is, the holding portion 339 is configured to hold the first flat cable 32 to limit the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving relative to the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1.

[0133] The holding portion 339 protrudes from the limiting portion 337 in the first direction D1. The first flat cable 32 includes a holding opening 32H. The holding portion 339 protrudes from the limiting portion 337 through the holding opening 32H in the first direction D1. However, the contact portion between the first flat cable 32 and the holding portion 339 may have another structure. For example, the holding portion 339 may have a groove, and the first flat cable 32 may be inserted into the groove. Fig.12 As shown, the holding opening 32H includes a cutout. However, the holding opening 32H may also include a hole into which the holding portion 339 is inserted.

[0134] In the present embodiment, the holding portion 339 is provided integrally with the restricting portion 337 as one component. However, the holding portion 339 may be a component separate from the restricting portion 337. In this case, for example, the holding portion 339 is attached to the restricting portion 337 by an attachment structure such as bonding or press-fitting.

[0135] like Fig.14 As shown, the retaining portion 339 is provided on the contact surface 337A of the limiting portion 337, and protrudes from the contact surface 337A in the first direction D1. The contact surface 337A includes an additional contact surface 337C. For example, the additional contact surface 337C is perpendicular to the first direction D1. The additional contact surface 337C is inclined relative to the inclined surface 337B. The additional contact surface 337C extends from the inclined surface 337B in the third direction D3. The retaining portion 339 is provided on the additional contact surface 337, and protrudes from the additional contact surface 337C in the first direction D1. However, the additional contact surface 337C may be inclined relative to the first direction D1. The retaining portion 339 may also protrude from the inclined surface 337B.

[0136] like Fig.13 As shown, the limiting portion 337 has a protruding length L3 defined in the first direction D1 from the first surface 31A. The protruding length L3 is defined in the first direction D1 from the first surface 31A to the additional contact surface 337C of the contact surface 337A. The protruding length L3 is longer than the second thickness W2. In the present embodiment, the protruding length L3 is longer than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2. However, the protruding length L3 may be less than the sum of the first thickness W1 and the second thickness W2.

[0137] The retaining portion 339 has an additional protrusion length L4. The additional protrusion length L4 is defined in the first direction D1 from the contact surface 337A of the limiting portion 337 to the end of the retaining portion 339. In the present embodiment, the additional protrusion length L4 is longer than the protrusion length L3. The additional protrusion length L4 is longer than the first thickness W1. However, the additional protrusion length L4 may be equal to or shorter than the protrusion length L3. The additional protrusion length L4 may be equal to or shorter than the first thickness W1.

[0138] like Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the restriction portion 337 is arranged so as to partially overlap the first flat cable 32 when viewed from the first direction D1. The restriction portion 337 is arranged so as not to overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the restriction portion 337 when viewed from the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 32G is arranged so as to partially overlap the restriction portion 337 when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be arranged so as to entirely overlap the restriction portion 337 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0139] The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 337 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G protrudes from the main body portion 32F toward the first conductor connecting portion 32A when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 337 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. The overlapping portion 32G is configured so as not to overlap with the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 337 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B. However, the overlapping portion 32G may be configured so as to protrude from the main body portion 32F in other directions. The overlapping portion 32G may be arranged to at least partially overlap the main body portion 32F when viewed from the first direction D1 in a state where the restriction portion 337 restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion 32B toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B.

[0140] You can also Fig.15 As shown, after the first flat cable 32 is mounted, the holding portion 339 is melted to sandwich the first flat cable 32 between the restriction portion 337 and the holding portion 339. By sandwiching the first flat cable 32 between the restriction portion 337 and the holding portion 339, the movement of the first flat cable 32 in the first direction D1 relative to the restriction portion 337 can be more reliably restricted, and the posture of the first flat cable 32 is more stable.

[0141] As described above, the cable connector assembly 330 includes the cable connector 31, the first flat cable 32, and the second flat cable 33. The cable connector 31 includes: the first bus bar 34A having conductivity; the second bus bar 35A having conductivity; and the connector body 36 having electrical insulation, and the connector body 36 partially covers the first bus bar 34A and the second bus bar 35A. The first flat cable 32 includes: the first conductor connection portion 32A electrically connected to the first bus bar 34A; and the first conductor exposed portion 32B provided at a position different from the position of the first conductor connection portion 32A. The second flat cable 33 includes: the second conductor connection portion 33A electrically connected to the second bus bar 35A; and the second conductor exposed portion 33B provided at a position different from the position of the second conductor connection portion 33A. The cable connector 31 includes a first surface 31A and a second surface 31B provided on the back side of the first surface 31A in the first direction D1. The first flat cable 32 is arranged to partially overlap the second flat cable 33 when viewed from the first direction D1. The second flat cable 33 is partially provided between the first surface 31A and the first flat cable 32 in the first direction D1. The cable connector 31 includes a restriction portion 337 that can contact the first flat cable 32 to restrict the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B in the first direction D1.

[0142] In the cable connector assembly 330, the restriction portion 337 restricts the first conductor exposed portion 32B from moving in the first direction D1 toward the second conductor exposed portion 33B, so that the first conductor exposed portion 32B and the second conductor exposed portion 33B can be suppressed or prevented from short-circuiting with a relatively simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost and suppress or prevent the first flat cable 32 and the second flat cable 33 from short-circuiting.

[0143] In addition, in the present application, "having" and its derivatives are non-restrictive terms that describe the existence of constituent elements, and do not exclude the existence of other constituent elements that are not described. This also applies to "having", "including" and their derivatives.

[0144] In this application, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are only used to identify structures and do not have other meanings (such as a specific order, etc.). For example, although there is a "first element", it does not mean that there is a "second element", and although there is a "second element", it does not mean that there is a "first element".

[0145] Furthermore, the expressions "parallel", "perpendicular" and "coincident" in the present disclosure should not be strictly interpreted, and respectively include the meanings of "substantially parallel", "substantially perpendicular" and "substantially coincident". Furthermore, expressions regarding other configurations should not be strictly interpreted either.

[0146] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the expression “at least one of A and B” includes, for example, any of (1) only A, (2) only B, and (3) both A and B. The expression “at least one of A, B, and C” includes, for example, any of (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) B and C, (6) A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In the present disclosure, the expression “at least one of A and B” should not be interpreted as “at least one of A and at least one of B”.

[0147] It is obvious that various changes and modifications of the present invention can be made in view of the above disclosure. Therefore, the present invention can also be implemented by methods different from the specific disclosure of this application without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0148] Description of symbols

[0149] 2: Rotary connector device; 10: Stator; 20: Rotor; 30, 130, 230: Cable connector assembly; 31, 39, 131, 139: Cable connector; 31A: First surface; 31B: Second surface; 32, 132: First flat cable; 32A: First conductor connection portion; 32B: First conductor exposed portion; 32C: First conductor; 32D: First insulating cover; 32F: Main body; 32G: Overlapping portion; 32S: Slit; 32H: Retaining opening; 33, 133: Second flat cable; 33A: Second conductor connection portion; 33B: Second conductor exposed portion Outlet; 33C: second conductor; 33D: second insulating cover; 33E: second additional conductor; 34A: first bus bar; 34B: first bus bar; 34CA: first cable connection portion; 34CB: first cable connection portion; 36: connector body; 37, 237, 337: limiting portion; 339: retaining portion; 37A: contact surface; 37B: inclined surface; 50: cable storage space; 237G: supporting groove; A1: rotation axis; D1: first direction; D2: second direction; D3: third direction; D4: circumferential direction; W1: first thickness; W2: second thickness.

Claims

1. A cable connector assembly, comprising: A cable connector comprising a first bus bar having conductivity, a second bus bar having conductivity, and a connector body having electrical insulation, the connector body partially covering the first bus bar and the second bus bar; a first flat cable including a first conductor connection portion electrically connected to the first bus bar and a first conductor exposure portion provided at a position different from that of the first conductor connection portion; and a second flat cable including a second conductor connection portion and a second conductor exposure portion, wherein the second conductor connection portion is electrically connected to the second bus bar, and the second conductor exposure portion is provided at a position different from that of the second conductor connection portion; The cable connector includes a first surface and a second surface disposed on the back side of the first surface in a first direction. The first flat cable is arranged so as to partially overlap with the second flat cable when viewed from the first direction. The second flat cable is partially provided between the first surface and the first flat cable in the first direction, The cable connector includes a restriction portion that can come into contact with the first flat cable to restrict movement of the first conductor exposed portion in the first direction toward the second conductor exposed portion.

2. The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The restriction portion is arranged so as to partially overlap the first flat cable when viewed from the first direction. The restriction portion is arranged so as not to overlap with the second flat cable when viewed from the first direction.

3. The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The restriction portion protrudes from the first surface of the connector body in the first direction.

4. The cable connector assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The first flat cable has a first thickness defined in the first direction in a state where the first conductor connecting portion is electrically connected to the first bus bar. the second flat cable having a second thickness defined in the first direction in a state where the second conductor connecting portion is electrically connected to the second bus bar, The limiting portion has a protruding length from the first surface defined in the first direction, The protruding length is longer than the second thickness.

5. The cable connector assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The protruding length is longer than the sum of the first thickness and the second thickness.

6. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The restricting portion is provided integrally with the connector body.

7. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first conductor exposed portion is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the second conductor exposed portion when viewed from the first direction.

8. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first flat cable comprises: a main body portion, comprising the first conductor connecting portion; and an overlapping portion at least partially including the first conductor exposed portion, and the overlapping portion is arranged to at least partially overlap with the second conductor exposed portion when viewed from the first direction, The restriction portion is capable of contacting the overlapping portion to restrict movement of the overlapping portion in the first direction toward the second conductor exposed portion.

9. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The limiting portion includes a contact surface capable of contacting the overlapping portion, The contact surface includes an inclined surface inclined with respect to the first direction.

10. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The overlapping portion is inclined with respect to the main body portion in a state where the restriction portion restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion.

11. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The overlapping portion protrudes from the main body portion when viewed from the first direction in a state in which the restriction portion restricts movement of the first conductor exposed portion toward the second conductor exposed portion.

12. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The limiting portion includes a supporting groove capable of contacting the overlapping portion to limit the first conductor exposed portion from moving toward the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction. The overlapping portion is at least partially disposed within the support groove.

13. The cable connector assembly according to claim 12, wherein: The overlapping portion is disposed in the support groove in a state of being bent relative to the main body portion.

14. The cable connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The overlapping portion is arranged so as to at least partially overlap the main body portion when the overlapping portion is arranged in the support groove when viewed from the first direction.

15. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The cable connector assembly further includes a holding portion provided on the limiting portion. The holding portion is capable of contacting the first flat cable to restrict the first conductor exposed portion from moving away from the second conductor exposed portion in the first direction.

16. The cable connector assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The holding portion protrudes from the restriction portion in the first direction.

17. The cable connector assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The first flat cable includes a holding opening, The holding portion protrudes from the restriction portion through the holding opening in the first direction.

18. A rotary connector device, comprising: stator; a rotor rotatable relative to the stator about a rotation axis; as well as The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images