Connectors and connector components

Abstract

The purpose of the present application is to provide a connector and a connector assembly that can reduce costs. A first connector (1) includes a first metal element (10A) used as a terminal and a second metal element (10B) used as a reinforcing accessory. Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a main body (11), a first edge portion (15), a second edge portion (16) and a third edge portion (17). The first edge portion of the first metal element is located on the upper side of the main body, and the upper side is the side that receives the mating connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation from the first metal element. The first edge portion of the second metal element is located on the lower side of the main body of the second metal element and can be attached to a first circuit substrate (B1) arranged on the lower side of the first connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in a direction (Y1) relative to the main body of the second metal element and can be attached to a second circuit substrate (B2) arranged in a direction (Y1) relative to the first connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector and a connector assembly that can be mounted on a circuit board in two mutually different orientations. Background Art

[0002] In a connector for connecting a cable to a circuit substrate, Patent Document 1 discloses a connector that can be attached to a circuit substrate in a vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation. When the connector is in a vertical orientation, the connection direction between the connector provided at the end of the cable and the connector on the circuit substrate is perpendicular to the circuit substrate. When the connector is in a horizontal orientation, the connection direction between the connector provided at the end of the cable and the connector on the circuit substrate is parallel to the circuit substrate. With this connector, the connector for connecting the cable to the circuit substrate in a vertical direction and the connector for connecting the cable to the circuit substrate in a horizontal direction do not need to be designed or manufactured separately, and this can reduce the cost of the connector.

[0003] [Prior art literature]

[0004] [Patent Document]

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6440345 Summary of the invention

[0006] [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The connector mounted on the circuit substrate includes not only a terminal for establishing an electrical connection with a cable, but also a reinforcing fitting for increasing the fixing strength between the connector and the circuit substrate. The reinforcing fitting is held at the end of the base and welded to the circuit substrate. In such a conventional structure of the terminal and the reinforcing fitting, there is a problem that it is difficult to further reduce the cost.

[0008] [Methods of solving the problem]

[0009] An example of a connector proposed in the present disclosure is a connector, which includes: a first metal element, which is used as a terminal; a second metal element, which is used as a reinforcing accessory; and a base, which holds the first metal element and the second metal element, and the connector is connected to a mating connector in a first axial direction. Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a third edge portion, the body portion of the first metal element includes a portion that contacts the mating terminal, and the first edge portion of the first metal element is located in a first direction, which is a direction from the body portion in the first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, which is the first direction opposite to the first axial direction of the body portion, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, which is a direction of the second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the body portion, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation from the first metal element. The first edge of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body of the second metal element, and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The third edge of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The second edge of the second metal element is located in the first direction relative to the body of the second metal element.

[0010] An example of a connector proposed in the present disclosure is a connector, which includes: a first metal element, which is used as a terminal; a second metal element, which is used as a reinforcing fitting; and a base, which holds the first metal element and the second metal element, and the connector is connected to a mating connector in a first axial direction. Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a third edge portion. The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion that contacts the mating terminal. The first edge portion of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the body portion in the first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, and the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the body portion, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, and the third direction is a direction of the second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the body portion, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation from the first metal element. The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in a fourth direction, and the fourth direction is opposite to the third direction in the second axial direction from the body portion of the second metal element.

[0011] An example of a connector assembly proposed in the present disclosure is a connector assembly having a first connector; and a second connector, which is engaged with the first connector in a first direction. The first connector includes: a first metal element, which is used as a terminal; a second metal element, which is used as a reinforcing fitting; and a base, which holds the first metal element and the second metal element. Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a third edge portion. The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion of a terminal that contacts the second connector. The first edge portion of the first metal element is located in a first direction, which is a direction from the body portion in the first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the body portion, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, which is a direction of the second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the body portion, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation from the first metal element. The first edge of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body of the second metal element, and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The third edge of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The second edge of the second metal element is located in the first direction relative to the body of the second metal element.

[0012] Another example of the connector assembly proposed in the present disclosure is a connector assembly, which has: a first connector; and a second connector, which is engaged with the first connector in a first direction. The first connector includes: a first metal element, which is used as a terminal; a second metal element, which is used as a reinforcing fitting; and a base, which holds the first metal element and the second metal element. Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a third edge portion. The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion of the terminal that contacts the second connector. The first edge portion of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the body portion in the first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, and the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the body portion, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, and the third direction is a direction of the second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the body portion, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation from the first metal element. The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in a fourth direction, and the fourth direction is opposite to the third direction in the second axial direction from the body portion of the second metal element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a connector assembly having a connector (first connector) proposed in the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The exploded perspective view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1 shows that the first connector constituting the connector assembly is mounted on the circuit substrate in a vertical orientation.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing that the first connector is mounted on the circuit board in a horizontal orientation.

[0016] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the first connector.

[0017] Figure 5 is a front view of the first connector.

[0018] Fig. 6A So Figure 5 The cross-sectional view is made along the line VIa-VIa shown in the figure. The cross-sectional view shows that the first connector is in a vertical orientation.

[0019] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the first connector in a horizontal orientation. The position of the cross-sectional view is Fig. 6A The same position.

[0020] Fig. 7A So Figure 5 The cross-sectional view is made along the line VIIa-VIIa shown in FIG.

[0021] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the first connector in a horizontal orientation. The position of the cross-sectional view is Fig. 7A The same position.

[0022] Fig. 8A is a side view of the first metal element (terminal).

[0023] Figure 8B is a side view of the second metal element (reinforcement fitting).

[0024] Fig. 9 It is a three-dimensional view of the mating terminal (cable terminal).

[0025] Fig. 10A It is a side view showing a modified example of the first metal element.

[0026] Fig. 10B It is a side view showing a modification of the second metal element.

[0027] Fig.11 It is a side view showing a modification of the second metal element.

[0028] Explanation of symbols

[0029] 1First connector

[0030] 10A first metal element

[0031] 10B Second metal element

[0032] 11Main part

[0033] 12 first extension

[0034] 12a Claw

[0035] 12b trailing edge

[0036] 13 Second extension

[0037] 13b Connecting part

[0038] 13c front

[0039] 13g protrusion

[0040] 15 first edge portion

[0041] 16 Second edge portion

[0042] 17Third edge

[0043] 30 base

[0044] 30a lower surface

[0045] 30b front surface

[0046] 31 fitting wall

[0047] 31a Side wall

[0048] 31b Posterior wall

[0049] 31c slot

[0050] 32 base

[0051] 32a Holding hole

[0052] 33a Holding hole

[0053] 90 Second connector

[0054] 91 base

[0055] 91a Terminal holding hole

[0056] 93 Cable

[0057] 92 Cable Terminal

[0058] 92b Cable holding part

[0059] 92c crimping part

[0060] 92d contact part

[0061] 93b core wire

[0062] 110A first metal element

[0063] 110B Second metal element

[0064] 112 first extension

[0065] 113 Second extension

[0066] 210B Second metal element

[0067] M Connector Assembly DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Will refer to Figures 1 to 11 The connector proposed in the present disclosure is described. These figures show a first connector 1 as an example of the connector proposed in the present disclosure and a connector assembly M including the first connector 1 and a second connector 90. Hereinafter, Figure 1 The Z1 direction, Z2 direction, Y1 direction, Y2 direction, X1 direction, and X2 direction shown in the figure are used to show the relative positional relationship of the various parts of the connector and do not limit the orientation of the connector installed on the circuit substrate. The Z-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the X-axis direction are directions orthogonal to each other. The Z1 direction is one of the two directions along the Z-axis direction, and the Z2 direction is the direction opposite to the Z1 direction. Similarly, the Y1 direction is one of the two directions along the Y-axis direction, and the Y2 direction is the direction opposite to the Y1 direction. The X1 direction is one of the two directions along the X-axis direction, and the X2 direction is the direction opposite to the X1 direction.

[0069] As will be described later, the first connector 1 can be mounted on a circuit board B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1 (see Figure 1 ), or the first connector 1 is mounted on a circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1 (refer to Figure 3 Regardless of the orientation of the first connector 1, that is, regardless of whether the first connector 1 is in a vertical orientation (refer to Figure 1 ) or in a horizontal orientation (refer to Figure 3 ), in the following description, the direction in which the first connector 1 and the second connector 90 are connected is the Z-axis direction, and the direction in which the second connector 90 is positioned relative to the first connector 1 is the Z1 direction.

[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, the connector assembly M has a first connector 1 and a second connector 90. The first connector 1 is a connector mounted on a circuit substrate B1, and the second connector 90 is a mating connector provided at an end of a cable 93.

[0071] like Figure 2 As shown, the cable 93 may have a terminal 92 at its end. The second connector 90 includes a base 91. The base 91 has a plurality of terminal holding holes 91a for inserting and holding the terminals 92. The plurality of terminal holding holes 91a are arranged in the X-axis direction. Each terminal holding hole 91a opens in the Z1 direction.

[0072] like Figure 2 and Fig. 9As shown, the cable terminal 92 includes a main board portion 92a extending in the Y2 direction from the vicinity of the end of the cable 93. The base of the main board portion 92a includes a cable holding portion 92b that holds the outer skin 93a of the cable 93. In addition, the main board portion 92a includes a crimping portion 92c that holds the core wire 93b of the cable 93. The cable terminal 92 has two contact portions 92d facing each other at their ends. The two contact portions 92d are bent at the edge of the main board portion 92a and face each other in the X-axis direction.

[0073] The first connector 1 can be Figure 1 The vertical orientation shown and Figure 3 The horizontal orientation shown is mounted on the circuit board. Figure 1 When the first connector 1 is in the vertical orientation shown, the first connector 1 and the second connector 90 are connected in a direction perpendicular to the circuit substrate B1. When the first connector 1 is in the vertical orientation, the second connector 90 can be connected to the first connector 1 in a direction inclined relative to the direction perpendicular to the circuit substrate B1. Figure 3 When the first connector 1 is in the horizontal orientation, the second connector 90 can be connected to the first connector 1 in a direction inclined relative to the direction parallel to the plane of the circuit substrate B2.

[0074] In addition, the second connector 90 is not necessarily a connector provided at the end of the cable 93. The second connector 90 may be a connector mounted on a circuit substrate. The circuit substrate provided with the second connector and the circuit substrate B1 (or B2) on which the first connector 1 is mounted may be connected to each other via these two connectors.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the first connector 1 may include a plurality of first metal elements 10A, a plurality of second metal elements 10B, and a base 30 for holding the metal elements 10A, 10B. The first metal element 10A is used as a terminal for establishing an electrical connection with a mating terminal (a cable terminal 92 in this example of the connector assembly 10). A plurality of first metal elements 10A are arranged in the X-axis direction. The second metal element 10B is used as a reinforcing accessory for increasing the fixing strength between the first connector 1 and the circuit substrates B1, B2. One of the two second metal elements 10B is arranged in the X1 direction relative to the plurality of first metal elements 10A, and the other of the two second metal elements 10B is arranged in the X2 direction relative to the plurality of first metal elements 10A. For example, the metal elements 10A, 10B can be formed by press working a metal plate such as phosphor bronze or brass, but the forming method is not limited thereto. The material of the first metal element 10A and the material of the second metal element 10B are preferably the same but not necessarily limited thereto.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, the base 30 may include a fitting wall portion 31 in which the second connector 90 is embedded inside and a base portion 32 located at the bottom of the fitting wall portion 31. The fitting wall portion 31 includes: two side walls 31a, 31a, which are erected from the base portion 32 in the Z1 direction and face each other in the X-axis direction; and a rear wall 31b (a wall portion having an outer surface facing in the Y2 direction), extending in the X-axis direction. The two side walls 31a, 31a and the rear wall 31b located opposite to each other in the X-axis direction surround three sides of the second connector 90. When the first connector 1 and the second connector 90 are fitted, the rear wall 31b is arranged along the surface of the second connector 90 facing in the Y2 direction. The fitting wall portion 31 may be open in the Y1 direction and in the Z1 direction. Alternatively, the fitting wall portion 31 may be open only in the Z1 direction and surround the four directions of the second connector 90.

[0077] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, each of the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B may include a body portion 11, a first edge portion 15, a second edge portion 16, and a third edge portion 17. The body portion 11 may include a first extension portion 12 and a second extension portion 13 extending in a direction intersecting the first extension portion 12.

[0078] like Fig. 6A As shown, the main body 11 of the first metal element 10A may include: a first extension portion 12 extending in the Z-axis direction; and a second extension portion 13 connected to the first extension portion 12 and extending in the Y-axis direction. The first extension portion 12 is connected to a portion of the second extension portion 13 that deviates from the center of the second extension portion 13 in the Y-axis direction in the Y2 direction, whereby the first metal element 10A may have an overall substantially L-shape. The second extension portion 13 may have a protrusion 13g that further protrudes in the Y2 direction relative to the first extension portion 12. As described later, the first edge portion 15 is formed at the end of the first extension portion 12, or in other words, the first edge portion 15 is formed at the end in the opposite direction to the portion connecting the first extension portion 12 and the second extension portion 13. The second edge portion 16 and the third edge portion 17 are formed on the second extension portion 13.

[0079] [First Metal Element]

[0080] like Figure 5 and Fig. 6A As shown, the main body 11 of the first metal element 10A is at least partially exposed inside the fitting wall 31 and can contact the mating terminal (i.e., the cable terminal 92). The main body 11 of the first metal element 10A (more specifically, the first extension 12) is inserted between the two contact plates 92a and contacts the two contact plates 92a.

[0081] like Fig. 8AAs shown, the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A is located in the Z1 direction relative to the main body portion 11. In this example of the first connector 1, the first extension portion 12 extends in the Z1 direction from a portion near the end portion in the Z2 direction of the first connector 1. The first edge portion 15 is formed at the end portion of the first extension portion 12 in the Z1 direction. Figure 5 As shown, the width W1 of the first edge portion 15 in the X-axis direction may gradually decrease toward the extending direction of the first extending portion 12 .

[0082] like Fig. 8A As shown, the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A is located in the Z2 direction relative to the main body portion 11. Fig. 6A As shown, the second edge portion 16 protrudes beyond the outer surface (lower surface 30a) of the base 30 facing the Z2 direction and can be connected to the circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1. In other words, the second edge portion 16 can be soldered to a conductor pad (not shown) formed on the circuit substrate B1. In this example of the first metal element 10A, the second edge portion 16 is a portion of the edge of the second extension portion 13 in the Z2 direction. The second edge portion 16 is located in the Y1 direction relative to the center of the second extension portion 13 in the Y-axis direction and protrudes from the rear surface of the base 30 in the Z2 direction. The position of the second edge portion 16 is not limited to this example of the first connector 1. The second edge portion 16 may be located in the Y2 direction relative to the center of the second extension portion 13 in the Y-axis direction.

[0083] In this example of the first metal element 10A, the second extension portion 13 includes: a connecting portion 13b adjacent to the portion connected to the first extension portion 12; and a front portion 13c located in the Y1 direction relative to the connecting portion 13b and having a width greater than that of the connecting portion 13b in the Z-axis direction.

[0084] The third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A is opposite to the main body portion 11 (see Figure 1 ) is located in the Y1 direction. Fig. 6A As shown, the third edge portion 17 protrudes from the outer surface (front surface 30b) of the base 30 facing the Y1 direction and can be connected to the circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1 (refer to Figure 3 In other words, the third edge portion 17 can be soldered to a conductor pad (not shown) formed on the circuit substrate B2 . In this example of the first metal element 10A, the third edge portion 17 is the edge of the second extension portion 13 in the Y1 direction.

[0085] In this example of the first metal element 10A, the third edge portion 17 is the front edge (edge ​​in the Y1 direction) of the front portion 13c of the second extension portion 13, and the second edge portion 16 is the lower edge (edge ​​in the Z2 direction) of the front portion 13c. Thus, the second edge portion 16 and the third edge portion 17 are adjacent to each other while a corner is formed by the two edges of the front portion 13c.

[0086] [Second Metal Element]

[0087] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the relative positions of the main body 11, the first edge 15, the second edge 16, and the third edge 17 in the second metal element 10B may be substantially the same as the relative positions of these parts in the first metal element 10A. For example, the relative positions of the main body 11, the first edge 15, the second edge 16, and the third edge 17 refer to the direction in which the first edge 15 is positioned relative to the main body 11, the direction in which the second edge 16 is positioned relative to the main body 11, the direction in which the third edge 17 is positioned relative to the main body 11, and their distances in the side view of the metal elements 10A and 10B. The relative positions of the parts of the first metal element 10A and the relative positions of the parts of the second metal element 10B do not have to be exactly the same, as long as the manufacturing steps and manufacturing components (such as molds) of the metal elements 10A and 10B can be shared.

[0088] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B preferably have substantially the same shape. In other words, the relative positions of the parts of the first metal element 10A and the relative positions of the parts of the second metal element 10B are substantially the same, and in addition, the shapes and sizes of the parts of the first metal element 10A and the shapes and sizes of the parts of the second metal element 10B may also be substantially the same.

[0089] The thickness of the first metal element 10A and the thickness of the second metal element 10B may also be the same. In this case, the first metal element 10A should be able to be inserted into the holding hole 33a into which the second metal element 10B is inserted, and the second metal element 10B should be able to be inserted into the holding hole 32a into which the first metal element 10A is inserted.

[0090] The shapes of the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B do not have to be exactly the same, as long as the manufacturing steps and manufacturing components (such as molds) of the metal elements 10A and 10B can be shared. The thickness of the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B do not have to be the same.

[0091] For the metal elements 10A and 10B, one or more of the body portion 11, the first edge portion 15, the second edge portion 16, and the third edge portion 17 may have the same shape. For example, although the metal elements 10A and 10B have the same shape except for the first edge portion 15, the shape of the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A and the shape of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B may be different. For example, although the width W1 of the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A may gradually decrease as it approaches the end (the end in the Z1 direction), the width of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B may be constant.

[0092] The second metal element 10B is held by the base 30 in a different orientation from that of the first metal element 10A. For example, the second metal element 10B is held by the base 30 in a direction different from that of the first metal element 10A. Fig. 8A ) is held in the reversed orientation by the base 30. Different from the example of the first connector 1, the second metal element 10B can be held in the orientation in which the first metal element 10A is rotated around the straight line along the X-axis direction. For example, the second metal element 10B can be held in the orientation in which the first metal element 10A is rotated 90 degrees around the straight line along the X-axis direction.

[0093] As described above, the second metal member 10B is a member used as a reinforcing member for fixing the first connector 1 to the circuit board. Figure 8B As shown, the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B is located in the Z2 direction relative to the main body portion 11. Fig. 7A As shown, the first edge portion 15 protrudes in the Z2 direction from the lower surface 30a (surface facing the Z2 direction) of the base 30 and can be attached to the circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction of the first connector 1. In other words, the first edge portion 15 can be soldered to the pad formed on the circuit substrate B1.

[0094] Thus, the first edge portion 15, which is the end of the part of the body portion 11 including the contact portion for the mating terminal in the first metal element 10A, is used as a portion attached to the circuit substrate B1 in the second metal element 10B. In addition, the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B have common portions (specifically, the body portion 11, the second edge portion 16 and the third edge portion 17). Thus, a metal element having substantially the same shape as the first metal element 10A can be used as the second metal element 10B. And therefore, the manufacturing steps or manufacturing components (such as molds) of the second metal element 10B can be shared with the first metal element 10A, and the cost of the connector can be further reduced. Note that the second metal element 10B can be maintained in the orientation after the first metal element 10A is rotated 90 degrees around the straight line along the X-axis direction. With this structure, the first metal element 10A used as a terminal and the second metal element 10B used as a reinforcing accessory can be made substantially the same, so that the cost of the connector can be further reduced.

[0095] The first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B is formed at the end of the extension direction (Z2 direction) of the first extension portion 12. Like the width of the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A, the width of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B may gradually decrease toward the Z2 direction. Specifically, like the width W1 of the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A (see Figure 5 ), the width of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B in the X-axis direction may gradually decrease toward the Z2 direction. In addition, the width W2 of the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A is the same as that of the first edge portion 15 (refer to Fig. 8A ), the width of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B in the Y-axis direction may gradually decrease toward the Z2 direction. Different from this example of the first connector 1, the first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A gradually decreases in the Z2 direction, while the width of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B may be constant.

[0096] like Fig. 7A As shown, in this example of the first connector 1, the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B is located at the rear portion (the portion located in the Y2 direction relative to the center in the Y-axis direction) of the first connector 1. The second metal element 10B does not have a portion that can be attached to the circuit substrate B1 at the front portion (the portion located in the Y1 direction relative to the center in the Y-axis direction) of the first connector 1 and is arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1.

[0097] like Fig. 6A and Fig. 7AAs shown, in the side view of the first connector 1 (when the first connector 1 is viewed along the X-axis direction), the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A and the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction. This structure effectively prevents the end of the first connector 1 in the Y1 direction or the end of the first connector 1 in the Y2 direction from being separated from the circuit substrate B1 when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction relative to the circuit substrate B1 when the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B1. In detail, when Fig. 6A When the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction between the Y1 direction and the Z1 direction, the end of the first connector 1 in the Y2 direction can be effectively prevented from being separated from the circuit substrate B1. In addition, when the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B1, when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction between the Y2 direction and the Z1 direction, the end of the first connector 1 in the Y1 direction can be effectively prevented from being separated from the circuit substrate B1.

[0098] like Fig. 6A As shown, in this example of the first connector 1, in the side view of the first connector 1 (when the first connector 1 is viewed in the X-axis direction), the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A and the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction without overlapping parts, and a gap is ensured therebetween. In this way, the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A and the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B are located near the ends of the first connector 1 in the Y-axis direction, and therefore, even if a force in an oblique direction acts on the first connector 1, the first connector 1 can be further prevented from being separated from the circuit substrate. In contrast, when the width W2 of the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A and the width W3 of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B (refer to Fig. 8A ) is set to be large, the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A and the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B may partially overlap.

[0099] like Fig. 8A and Figure 8B As shown, in each of the metal components 10A, 10B, the dimension (width W2) of the first edge portion 15 in the Y-axis direction of the first connector 1 is greater than the dimension (width W3) of the second edge portion 16 in the same direction. Thus, when the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B1 in a vertical orientation, the width (W2) of the first edge portion 15 of the second metal component 10B is greater than the width (W3) of the second edge portion 16 of the first metal component 10A.

[0100] The first extension portion 12 having the first edge portion 15 at its end also has a relatively large width W4 in the Y-axis direction. The contact portion 92d of the cable terminal 92 of the second connector 90 forms a substantially U-shape together with the main board portion 92a. In other words, the contact portion 92d is open in a direction orthogonal to the connection direction (Z-axis direction) of the connectors 1, 90, specifically in the Y2 direction. Because the contact portion 92d is open in this manner, the width of the first extension portion 12 (i.e., the width of the first edge portion 15) can be increased.

[0101] In addition, if Figure 8B As shown, the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B is located in the Y1 direction relative to the main body portion 11. Figure 7B As shown, the third edge portion 17 protrudes in the Y1 direction from the front surface 30b (surface facing the Y1 direction) of the base 30 and can be attached to the circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1. That is, the third edge portion 17 can be soldered to the pad formed on the circuit substrate B2.

[0102] In this example of the first connector 1, the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B is located at the upper portion of the first connector 1 (the portion near the end in the Z1 direction), as shown in FIG. Fig. 7A The second metal element 10B does not have a portion that can be attached to the circuit substrate B2 at the lower portion of the first connector 1 (the portion near the end in the Z2 direction). Fig. 6A and Fig. 7A As shown, in the side view of the first connector 1 , the third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A and the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B are spaced apart in the Z-axis direction.

[0103] like Figure 6B and Figure 7BAs shown, this configuration can prevent the end of the first connector 1 in the Z1 direction from being separated from the circuit substrate B2 when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction (or in other words, when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction between the Y2 direction and the Z2 direction) in a state where the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B2. In this example of the first connector 1, in the side view (X-axis direction) of the first connector 1, the third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A and the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B do not have an overlapping portion, and a gap is ensured between the two. As described above, the third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A and the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B are located near the end of the first connector 1 in the Z1 direction and near the end in the Z2 direction. Thus, even if an oblique force is applied to the first connector 1, the first connector 1 can be prevented from being separated from the circuit substrate. In contrast, if the widths of the third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A and the third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B are set to be large, they can partially overlap.

[0104] like Fig. 6A As shown, the base 32 of the base 30 has a plurality of holding holes 32a into which the first metal elements 10A as terminals are respectively inserted. The holding holes 32a are open in the Z2 direction, and the first metal element 10A is inserted into the holding holes 32a in the Z1 direction. The first metal element 10A includes a claw portion 12a at the edge of the first extension portion 12 in the Y1 direction (see Fig. 8A ). The claw portion 12a and the inner surface of the holding hole 32a (see Fig. 6A ) engagement. This restricts the first metal element 10A from slipping out of the holding hole 32a. The position of the claw portion 12a is not limited to this example of the first connector 1. The claw portion 12a may be formed on the edge in the Y1 direction of the first extension portion 12 and the edge in the Y2 direction, or may be formed only on the edge in the Y2 direction of the first extension portion 12.

[0105] A groove 31c continuous from the holding hole 32a is formed in the rear wall 31b (the wall portion having the outer surface facing the Y2 direction) of the fitting wall portion 31 of the base 30. A portion of the first extension portion 12 (the edge 12b in the Y2 direction) can be accommodated in the groove 31c. This structure can prevent the second connector 90 from colliding with the first extension portion 12 and bending the first extension portion 12 when the second connector 90 and the first connector 1 are combined.

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown, the retaining holes 33a (see FIG. 1 ) into which the second metal element 10B is inserted as a reinforcing fitting are formed in the right portion 33R (near the end in the X1 direction) and the left portion 33L (near the end in the X2 direction) of the fitting wall portion 31 of the base 30. Fig. 7AThe holding hole 33a is open in the Z1 direction, and the second metal element 10B is inserted into the holding hole 33a in the Z2 direction. The second metal element 10B includes a claw portion 12a at the edge of the first extension portion 12 (see Figure 8B The claw portion 12a is engaged with the inner surface of the holding hole 33a (see Fig. 7A ). This prevents the first metal element 10A from escaping from the holding hole 33a. The first extension portion 12 of the second metal element 10B is different from the first extension portion 12 of the first metal element 10A in that most of the first extension portion 12 is received in the holding hole 33a.

[0107] As described above, the second metal element 10B is inserted into the holding hole 33a formed in the base 30 in a direction different from that of the first metal element 10A. In detail, the first metal element 10A is inserted in the Z1 direction relative to the holding hole 32a of the base 30, and the second metal element 10B is inserted in the Z2 direction relative to the holding hole 33a of the base 30. The base 32 (first stopper) of the base 30 is located in the Z1 direction relative to the second extension 13 of the first metal element 10A and restricts the first metal element 10A from moving in the Z1 direction. The base 30 includes a second stopper 30e, which is located in the Z2 direction relative to the second extension 13 of the second metal element 10B and restricts the second metal element 10B from moving in the Z2 direction. In this manner, the base 32 and the second stopper 30e of the base 30 are sandwiched by the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B in the Z-axis direction. When the second connector 90 and the first connector 1 are connected, when the cable 93 is pulled, the second metal element 10B fixed to the circuit substrates B1 and B2 can prevent the base 30 from coming off in the Z1 direction from the first metal element 10A fixed to the circuit substrates B1 and B2. In addition, when the second connector 90 is pulled from the first connector 1, the force that separates the first connector 1 from the circuit substrates B1 and B2 due to the friction between the cable terminal 92 and the first metal element 10A acts on the first connector. At this time, the second metal element 10B fixed to the circuit substrates B1 and B2 can prevent the first connector 1 from coming off the circuit substrates B1 and B2.

[0108] Note that the insertion direction of the second metal element 10B is not limited to this example of the first connector 1. For example, the retaining hole for the second metal element 10B may be open in the Y2 direction, and the second metal element 10B may be inserted in the Y1 direction relative to the retaining hole. Conversely, the retaining hole for the second metal element 10B may be open in the Y1 direction, and the second metal element 10B may be inserted into the retaining hole in the Y2 direction. In yet another example, the metal elements 10A, 10B may be formed integrally with the base 30. In other words, the metal elements 10A, 10B may be formed together with the base 30 using insert molding. Insert molding is a method of injecting molten resin into a mold into which the metal elements 10A, 10B are inserted and integrating the metal elements 10A, 10B with the resin (base 30).

[0109] As described above, the first connector 1 is a connector, which includes: a first metal element 10A, which is used as a terminal; a second metal element 10B, which is used as a reinforcing fitting; and a base 30, which holds the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B and is connected to the mating connector in the Z-axis direction. Each of the first metal element 10A and the second metal element 10B includes a body portion 11, a first edge portion 15, a second edge portion 16, and a third edge portion 17. The body portion 11 of the first metal element 10A includes a portion that contacts the mating terminal (cable terminal 92). The first edge portion 15 of the first metal element 10A is located in the Z1 direction relative to the body portion 11. The second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 10A is located in the Z2 direction relative to the body portion 11 and can be connected to the first circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1. The third edge portion 17 of the first metal element 10A is located in the Y1 direction relative to the body portion 11 and can be connected to the second circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1. The second metal element 10B is held in a different orientation from the first metal element 10A. The first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 10B is located in the Z2 direction relative to the body portion 11 of the second metal element 10B and can be attached to the first circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1. The third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B is located in the Y1 direction relative to the body portion 11 of the second metal element 10B and can be attached to the second circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1. The second edge portion 16 of the second metal element 10B is located in the Z1 direction relative to the body portion 11 of the second metal element 10B. With this first connector 1, the first metal element 10A used as a terminal and the second metal element 10B used as a reinforcing fitting can be made in substantially the same shape, thereby further reducing the cost.

[0110] In addition, in the first connector 1, the metal elements 10A and 10B have a substantially L-shape. The shape of the metal element is not limited thereto. For example, the metal elements 10A and 10B may have a substantially T-shape.

[0111] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The metal components 110A and 110B are shown to have a substantially T-shape. The first metal component 110A is a terminal connected to a cable terminal, and the second metal component 110B is a reinforcing member for fixing the first connector 1 to a circuit board.

[0112] The main body 111 of the first metal element 110A includes: a first extension portion 112, which extends in the Z-axis direction; and a second extension portion 113, which is connected to the first extension portion 112 and extends in the Y-axis direction. The first extension portion 112 is connected to the central portion of the second extension portion 113, and the first metal element 110A has an overall T-shape. The second extension portion 113 may include: a rear portion 113a, which extends in the Y2 direction relative to the first extension portion 112; and a front portion 113b, which is a portion extending in the Y1 direction relative to the first extension portion 112.

[0113] The first edge portion 15 is formed at the end of the first extension portion 112 in the Z1 direction. The second edge portion 16 is formed at the edge of the rear portion 113a of the second extension portion 113 in the Z2 direction and is located in the Z2 direction of the first connector relative to the body portion 111. The second edge portion 16 extends from the lower surface 30a of the base 30 (the surface facing the Z2 direction, see Fig. 6A ) protrudes and can be connected to the circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector. The third edge portion 17 is formed at the edge of the front portion 113b of the second extension portion 113 in the Y1 direction. The third edge portion 17 is formed at the edge of the front portion 113b of the second extension portion 113 in the Y1 direction and is located in the Y1 direction relative to the main body portion 111. The third edge portion 17 extends from the front surface 30b of the base 30 (the surface facing the Y1 direction, refer to Fig. 6A ) protrudes and can be connected to the circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1.

[0114] The first metal element 110A and the second metal element 110B may have substantially the same shape. The second metal element 110B is held by the base 30 in a reversed orientation of the first metal element 10A relative to the straight line L1 along the Y-axis direction. Thus, the relative positions of the body portion 111, the first edge portion 15, the second edge portion 16, and the third edge portion 17 in the second metal element 110B are substantially the same as their relative positions in the first metal element 110A.

[0115] Fig. 10BAs shown, the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 110B is located in the Z2 direction relative to the main body portion 111. The first edge portion 15 extends from the lower surface 30a of the base 30 (the surface facing the Z2 direction, see Fig. 7A ) protrudes in the Z2 direction and can be attached to the circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1. The third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 10B can be located in the Y1 direction relative to the body portion 111. The third edge portion 17 extends from the front surface 30b (the surface facing the Y1 direction, see Fig. 7A ) protrudes in the Y1 direction and can be attached to the circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0116] In this configuration, in the side view of the first connector 1 (when the first connector 1 is viewed in the X-axis direction), the second edge portion 16 of the first metal element 110A and the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 110B are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction. This arrangement can prevent the end of the first connector 1 in the Y2 direction from being separated from the circuit substrate B1 when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction (a direction between the Y1 direction and the Z1 direction) when the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B1. In addition, it can prevent the end of the first connector 1 in the Y1 direction from being separated from the circuit substrate B2 when the cable 93 is pulled in an oblique direction (a direction between the Y2 direction and the Z1 direction) when the first connector 1 is mounted on the circuit substrate B1.

[0117] In another example, although the first metal element 10A is inserted into the holding hole 32a formed in the base 30 in the Z1 direction, the second metal element 10B may be inserted in the Y1 direction relative to the holding hole opening in the Y2 direction or may be inserted in the Y2 direction relative to the holding hole opening in the Y1 direction. Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining this form. Fig.11 (a) is the first metal element 10A mentioned above. Fig.11 (b) in FIG. 2 shows a second metal element 210B. The second metal element 210B is held by the base 30 in the orientation after the first metal element 10A is rotated around the straight line L2 in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the second metal element 210B is held by the base 30 in the orientation after the first metal element 10A is rotated 90 degrees. In this case, the second metal element 10B can be inserted in the Y1 direction into the holding hole opened in the Y2 direction. The structure of the second metal element 210B alone can be the same as the structure of the second metal element 10B.

[0118] exist Fig.11In the example, the first edge portion 15 of the second metal element 210B is located in the Y1 direction relative to the body portion 11. When the second metal element 210B is attached to the base 30, the first edge portion 15 is located from the front surface 30b (the surface facing the Y1 direction, see Fig. 7A ) protrudes in the Y1 direction and can be attached to the circuit substrate B2 arranged in the Y1 direction relative to the first connector 1. The third edge portion 17 of the second metal element 210B is located in the Z2 direction relative to the body portion 11. The third edge portion 17 protrudes in the Z2 direction from the lower surface 30a (surface facing the Z2 direction) of the base 30 and can be attached to the circuit substrate B1 arranged in the Z2 direction relative to the first connector 1. The second edge portion 16 of the second metal element 210B is located in the Y2 direction relative to the body portion 11 of the second metal element 210B.

Claims

1. A connector, comprising: a first metal element, which serves as a terminal; a second metal element, which serves as a reinforcing member; as well as a base that holds the first metal element and the second metal element, wherein The connector is connected to the mating connector in a first axial direction, Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion and a third edge portion, The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion contacting the mating terminal, The first edge of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the main body in a first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the main body, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, the third direction is a direction of a second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the main body, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation than the first metal element, The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector, and The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in the first direction relative to the main body portion of the second metal element, Wherein, the first metal element and the second metal element have substantially the same shape.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the main body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector, and the second edge portion of the first metal element and the first edge portion of the second metal element are spaced apart in the second axial direction.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the main body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector, and the third edge portion of the first metal element and the third edge portion of the second metal element are spaced apart in the first axial direction.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: A first holding hole and a second holding hole are formed in the base, and the first metal element and the second metal element are inserted into the first holding hole and the second holding hole respectively. The first metal member is insertable into the first holding hole in the first direction, and the second metal member is insertable into the second holding hole in the second direction.

5. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the first metal element and the second metal element has an extension portion extending in the second axial direction, The base has a first stopper, the first stopper is located in the first direction relative to the extension of the first metal element and limits the movement of the first metal element, and The base has a second stopper, which is located in the second direction relative to the extending portion of the second metal element and limits the movement of the second metal element.

6. A connector, comprising: a first metal element, which serves as a terminal; a second metal element, which serves as a reinforcing member; as well as a base that holds the first metal element and the second metal element, wherein The connector is connected to the mating connector in a first axial direction, Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion and a third edge portion, The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion contacting the mating terminal, The first edge of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the main body in a first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the main body, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, the third direction is a direction of a second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the main body, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The second metal element is held in a different orientation than the first metal element, The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector, and The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in a fourth direction, and the fourth direction is opposite to the third direction in the second axial direction from the main body portion of the second metal element. The first metal element and the second metal element have substantially the same shape.

7. The connector according to claim 1 or 6, wherein: The first metal element and the second metal element have the same shape on at least one of the body portion, the first edge portion, the second edge portion, or the third edge portion.

8. The connector according to claim 1 or 6, wherein: The relative positions of the main body, the first edge, the second edge and the third edge of the second metal element are the same as those of the main body, the first edge, the second edge and the third edge of the first metal element.

9. The connector according to claim 1 or 6, wherein: The main body portion of the first metal element and the main body portion of the second metal element both have a first extension portion and a second extension portion, the second extension portion is connected to the first extension portion, and the second extension portion extends in a direction intersecting with the first extension portion, the first edge portion is formed on the first extension portion, and the second edge portion and the third edge portion are formed on the second extension portion.

10. A connector assembly comprising: a first connector; as well as a second connector, which engages with the first connector in a first direction, Wherein, the first connector comprises: a first metal element, which serves as a terminal; a second metal element, which serves as a reinforcing member; and a base that holds the first metal element and the second metal element, wherein Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion and a third edge portion, The body of the first metal element includes a portion contacting a terminal of the second connector, The first edge of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the main body in a first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the main body, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, the third direction is a direction of a second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the main body, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The first metal element and the second metal element have substantially the same shape, and the second metal element is held in a different orientation than the first metal element, The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector, and The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in the first direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element.

11. A connector assembly comprising: a first connector; as well as a second connector, which engages with the first connector in a first direction, Wherein, the first connector comprises: a first metal element, which serves as a terminal; a second metal element, which serves as a reinforcing member; and a base that holds the first metal element and the second metal element, wherein Each of the first metal element and the second metal element includes a body portion, a first edge portion, a second edge portion and a third edge portion, The body portion of the first metal element includes a portion contacting a terminal of the second connector, The first edge of the first metal element is located in a first direction, and the first direction is a direction from the main body in a first axial direction. The second edge portion of the first metal element is located in a second direction, the second direction is opposite to the first direction in the first axial direction of the main body, and the second edge portion can be connected to a first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction of the connector. The third edge portion of the first metal element is located in a third direction, the third direction is a direction of a second axial direction orthogonal to the first axial direction from the main body, and the third edge portion can be connected to a second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction of the connector. The first metal element and the second metal element have substantially the same shape, and the second metal element is held in a different orientation than the first metal element, The first edge portion of the second metal element is located in the third direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element, and can be attached to the second circuit substrate arranged in the third direction relative to the connector. The third edge portion of the second metal element is located in the second direction relative to the body portion of the second metal element and can be attached to the first circuit substrate arranged in the second direction relative to the connector, and The second edge portion of the second metal element is located in a fourth direction, which is opposite to the third direction in the second axial direction of the body portion of the second metal element.

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