Connectors and connection methods

Abstract

The present invention provides a connector that can electrically connect a contact to the flexible conductor of a connected object even if the flexible conductor is exposed on either the surface or the back surface of the connected object. The connector includes a contact (13) that is selectively held in a housing (12) in either a first posture or a second posture in which the contact (13) is rotated 180 degrees relative to the mating direction. When the contact is held in the housing in the first posture and when the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the contact portion of the contact is disposed in the same position relative to the housing, and the connecting portion of the contact is disposed in a different position relative to the housing. The contact (13) is held in the housing (12) in the first posture or the second posture in a posture corresponding to the orientation of the face of the connected object (F1) exposed by the flexible conductor (F12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to connectors and connection methods, and more particularly to connectors and connection methods mounted on a connection object in which a flexible conductor is exposed on one side. Background Technology

[0002] As a connector installed on a connecting object having a flexible conductor, for example, a type disclosed in Patent Document 1 Figure 54 The connector 1 shown has the following structure: a connecting object 4 is clamped and held between a first insulating member 2 in the shape of a flat plate and a second insulating member 3 in the shape of a frame with an opening 3A in the center.

[0003] The first insulating member 2 has a protrusion 2A that protrudes into the opening 3A of the second insulating member 3, and a protrusion 2B that protrudes into the second insulating member 3 at a portion closer to the side edge of the first insulating member 2 than the protrusion 2A. The contact 5 is held in the first insulating member 2 such that it protrudes from the surfaces of the protrusion 2A and the protrusion 2B, respectively. A concave protrusion receiving portion 3B for receiving the protrusion 2B of the first insulating member 2 is formed on the surface of the second insulating member 3 opposite to the first insulating member 2.

[0004] The connecting object 4 has a flexible conductor 6 exposed on its back side, i.e., the side opposite to the first insulating member 2. With the connecting object 4 positioned between the first insulating member 2 and the second insulating member 3, if the first insulating member 2 and the second insulating member 3 are pressed together in a manner close to each other, then... Figure 55 As shown, the object to be connected 4 is inserted into the protrusion receiving portion 3B of the second insulating member 3 via the protrusion 2B of the first insulating member 2. As a result, the object to be connected 4 is sandwiched between the inner surface of the protrusion receiving portion 3B and the contact 5 disposed on the surface of the protrusion 2B of the first insulating member 2, and the contact 5 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor 6 exposed on the back side of the object to be connected 4.

[0005] Furthermore, when a portion of the opposite connector is inserted into the opening 3A of the second insulating member 3 and the opposite connector is fitted with the connector 1, the portion of the contact 5 disposed on the surface of the protrusion 2A of the first insulating member 2 becomes in contact with the corresponding contact of the opposite connector and is electrically connected.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-87515

[0009] Thus, by using the connector 1 of Patent Document 1, it is possible to electrically connect the contact 5 to the flexible conductor 6 exposed on the back side of the object to be connected 4.

[0010] However, in the protruding receiving portion 3B of the second insulating member 3, the back side of the connecting object 4 contacts the contact 5. Therefore, if the flexible conductor 6 is not exposed on the back side of the connecting object 4 but only on the surface of the connecting object 4, there is a problem that the contact 5 cannot be electrically connected to the flexible conductor 6. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention was made to solve this existing problem, and its object is to provide a connector that can electrically connect the contacts to the flexible conductor of the connected object even if the flexible conductor is exposed on either the front or back side of the connected object.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a connection method for electrically connecting a contact to a flexible conductor of a connected object using such a connector.

[0013] The connector of the present invention is mounted on a connecting object in which one side of a flexible conductor is exposed and engages with a connector on the opposite side along the mating direction. The connector comprises:

[0014] The housing, mounted on the object to be connected; and

[0015] At least one contact is selectively held in the housing in either a first or a second posture, which are rotated 180 degrees relative to each other about the engagement direction, and is made of a conductive material.

[0016] The housing is composed of a first insulator and a second insulator that sandwich the objects to be connected in the middle and are assembled together along a specified assembly direction.

[0017] The contact has a contact portion that protrudes from the first insulator in the mating direction for contacting the contact of the opposite connector, and a connection portion that connects to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected.

[0018] When the contact is held in the housing in a first posture and when the contact is held in the housing in a second posture, the contact portion is positioned at the same location relative to the housing, while the connecting portion is positioned at different locations relative to the housing.

[0019] The contact is held in the housing in a first or second posture, corresponding to the orientation of the exposed contact object of the flexible conductor.

[0020] Preferably, the contact has a first contact surface and a second contact surface arranged symmetrically with respect to the center line along the engagement direction and facing opposite directions, as well as a first connecting surface connected to the first contact surface and a second connecting surface connected to the second contact surface.

[0021] The first connecting surface and the second connecting surface are positioned asymmetrically relative to the center line.

[0022] Regardless of whether the contact is held in the housing in the first posture or the second posture, at least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface serves as a contact portion to contact the contact of the other-side connector.

[0023] With the contact held in the housing in a first posture, the first connecting surface serves as a connecting part and connects to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected.

[0024] With the contact held in the housing in the second posture, the second connecting surface is connected to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected as a connecting part.

[0025] Preferably, the first insulator has a first opposing surface extending in the mating direction, the second insulator has a second opposing surface extending in the mating direction and opposing the first opposing surface, and the connection portion of the flexible conductor and the contact of the object to be connected is electrically connected to each other in a state of being sandwiched between the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface.

[0026] Alternatively, the contact can be configured such that, when the contact is held in the housing in a first posture, the first connecting surface of the contact is located on the first opposing surface side, and the flexible conductor of the object to be connected is located on the second opposing surface side; and when the contact is held in the housing in a second posture, the second connecting surface of the contact is located on the second opposing surface side, and the flexible conductor of the object to be connected is located on the first opposing surface side.

[0027] Furthermore, it is preferable that the second insulator has a concave contact partial receiving portion, wherein when the contact is held in the housing in a first posture, the second connecting surface is received in the contact partial receiving portion, and when the contact is held in the housing in a second posture, the first connecting surface is received in the contact partial receiving portion.

[0028] Preferably, the contact has a first connecting portion disposed between the first contact surface and the first connecting surface, and a second connecting portion disposed between the second contact surface and the second connecting surface, and is held in the housing by being sandwiched between the first insulator and the second insulator through the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0029] In this case, it is preferable that the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are sandwiched between the first insulator and the second insulator in a predetermined assembly direction.

[0030] Furthermore, the specified assembly direction can be the same as the mating direction.

[0031] The connection method of the present invention connects the contacts of the above-mentioned connector to a flexible conductor exposed on one side of the object to be connected.

[0032] The contact is temporarily held in a position corresponding to the orientation of the exposed contact object of the flexible conductor in either the first or second insulator of the housing.

[0033] A connecting object is placed between the first insulator and the second insulator.

[0034] By assembling the first and second insulators together along a prescribed assembly direction, the connecting portion of the contact is connected to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected.

[0035] The contact portion of the temporarily held contact can be configured to be displaceable, and is positioned opposite the first opposing surface of the first insulator or the second opposing surface of the second insulator, separated by a gap larger than the thickness of the flexible conductor.

[0036] By assembling the first insulator and the second insulator together with the flexible conductor inserted between the connecting part and the first or second opposing surface, the connecting part is displaced between the first and second opposing surfaces and pressed against the flexible conductor to form a connection.

[0037] The effects of the invention:

[0038] According to the present invention, a contact is provided that is selectively held in a housing in either a first posture or a second posture in which the contact is rotated 180 degrees about the mating direction. When the contact is held in the housing in the first posture and when the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the contact portion is disposed in the same position relative to the housing, and the connecting portion is disposed in a different position relative to the housing. The contact is held in the housing in the first posture or the second posture in a posture corresponding to the orientation of the face of the connected object exposed by the flexible conductor. Therefore, even if the flexible conductor is exposed on either the surface or the back surface of the connected object, the contact can be electrically connected to the flexible conductor of the connected object. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 1, which is installed on the upper surface of the flexible conductor and is viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 1, which is constructed from a downward angle and consists of a flexible conductor exposed on its upper surface.

[0041] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector according to Embodiment 1.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 1, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0043] Figure 5This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 1, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 1, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0045] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 1, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0046] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the contacts of the connector used in Embodiment 1, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0047] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the contacts of the connector used in Embodiment 1.

[0048] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the first insulator in Embodiment 1, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0049] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the first insulator in Embodiment 1, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from a slightly downward angle.

[0050] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 1, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the upper surface during installation.

[0051] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a connector according to Embodiment 1, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its upper surface.

[0052] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 1, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0053] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 1, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0054] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 1, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface during installation.

[0055] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of a connector according to Embodiment 1, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its lower surface.

[0056] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 2, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0057] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 2, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0058] Figure 20 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector in Embodiment 2.

[0059] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 2, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0060] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 2, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0061] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 2, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0062] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 2, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0063] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the contacts of the connector used in Embodiment 2, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0064] Figure 26 This is a side view showing the contacts of the connector used in Embodiment 2.

[0065] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the second insulator in Embodiment 2, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0066] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the second insulator in Embodiment 2, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from a slightly downward angle.

[0067] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 2, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface during installation.

[0068] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view of a connector according to Embodiment 2, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its lower surface.

[0069] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 2, which is installed on the upper surface of the flexible conductor and is viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0070] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 2, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the upper surface, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0071] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 2, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the upper surface during installation.

[0072] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 2, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its upper surface.

[0073] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 3, which is installed on the upper surface of the flexible conductor and is viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0074] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 3, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the upper surface, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0075] Figure 37 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector according to embodiment 3.

[0076] Figure 38 This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 3, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0077] Figure 39 This is a perspective view of the first insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 3, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0078] Figure 40 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 3, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0079] Figure 41 This is a perspective view of the second insulator of the connector used in Embodiment 3, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0080] Figure 42 This is a perspective view of the contacts of the connector used in Embodiment 3, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0081] Figure 43 This is a side view showing the contacts of the connector used in embodiment 3.

[0082] Figure 44 This is a perspective view of the first insulator in Embodiment 3, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from an oblique angle.

[0083] Figure 45 This is a perspective view of the first insulator in Embodiment 3, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from a slightly downward angle.

[0084] Figure 46 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of embodiment 3, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the upper surface during installation.

[0085] Figure 47 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 3, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its upper surface.

[0086] Figure 48 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 3, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0087] Figure 49 This is a perspective view of the connector of Embodiment 3, which is installed on the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0088] Figure 50 This is a perspective view of the second insulator in Embodiment 3, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0089] Figure 51 This is a perspective view of the second insulator in Embodiment 3, which temporarily holds multiple contacts, viewed from a slightly downward angle.

[0090] Figure 52 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector of Embodiment 3, showing the connection object with the flexible conductor exposed on the lower surface during installation.

[0091] Figure 53 This is a cross-sectional view of embodiment 3 of the connector, which is mounted on a flexible conductor exposed on its lower surface.

[0092] Figure 54 This is a cross-sectional view showing an existing connector.

[0093] Figure 55 yes Figure 54 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0094] Figure Labels

[0095] 1 Connector, 2 First insulating component, 2A Protrusion, 2B Protrusion, 3 Second insulating component, 3A Opening, 3B Protrusion receiving portion, 4 Connecting object, 5 Contact, 6 Flexible conductor, 11, 21, 31 Connector, 12, 22, 32 Housing, 13, 23, 33 Contact, 14 Reinforcing piece, 15, 25, 35 First insulator, 16, 26, 36 Second insulator, 15A, 16A, 25A, 26A, 35A, 36A Base, 15B, 25B, 35B Protrusion, 15C, 25C, 35C Gap, 15D, 25D, 35D Recess, 15F, 15G, 25F, 25G, 35F, 35G Retaining surface, 15H, 25H, 35H Inner wall surface (first opposing surface), 15J, 16F, 25J, 26F, 35J; Fixing post, 15K, 25K; Fixing hole, 16B, 26B, 36B; Protrusion, 16C, 26C, 36C; Columnar component, 16D, 26D, 36D; Contact partial storage part, 16G, 26G, 36G; Outer surface surface (second opposing surface), 13A, 23A, 33A; U-shaped part, 13B, 13C, 23B, 23C, 33B, 33C; Elongated part, 13D, 23D, 33D; Top, 13E, 23E, 33E; First connecting part, 13F, 13H, 23F, 23H, 33F, 33H; Flat part, 13G, 23G, 33G; Second connecting part, 26H, 36H Shoulder, F1, F2 Connecting objects, F11, F21 Fabric, F12, F22 Flexible conductor, F13, 14A Opening, F14, 14B, 15E, 16E, 25E, 26E, 35E, 36E Through holes, D1 Specified assembly direction, S1A First contact surface, S2A Second contact surface, S1B First connecting surface, S2B Second connecting surface, C1 Centerline, L1~L6 Distance in the X direction. Detailed Implementation

[0096] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0097] Implementation Method 1

[0098] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connector 11 of Embodiment 1 is shown. The connector 11 is mounted on a connecting object F1, such as clothing, and serves as a connector for fitting wearable devices. It has a housing 12 made of insulating material. Within the housing 12, a plurality of contacts 13 are arranged in two parallel rows and are each held to protrude perpendicularly relative to the connecting object F1.

[0099] In addition, the connector 11 is installed on the connected object F1 together with the reinforcing piece 14 for strengthening the connected object F1.

[0100] As a connection object F1, for example, clothing equipped with so-called smart textiles can be used, which forms wiring on at least one side by incorporating conductive fibers, printing conductive ink, etc. Figure 1 As shown, the connecting object F1 is a wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F12 that is exposed on the upper surface of a fabric F11 made of insulating material, facing the +Z direction. Figure 2 As shown, the flexible conductor F12 is not exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F11 facing the -Z direction.

[0101] For convenience, the direction in which the connecting object F1 extends along the XY plane and the arrangement of the multiple contacts 13 is called the Y direction, and the direction in which the multiple contacts 13 protrude is called the +Z direction. The Z direction is the mating direction of the connector 11 and the other side connector.

[0102] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of connector 11. Connector 11 has a first insulator 15 and a second insulator 16, which together form housing 12.

[0103] In addition, multiple contacts 13 are temporarily held in the first insulator 15, and the second insulator 16 sandwiches the connecting object F1 and the reinforcing piece 14 in the middle, and is assembled in the first insulator 15 along the +Z direction, which is the prescribed assembly direction D1.

[0104] Furthermore, a rectangular opening F13 is formed on the fabric F11 that connects to the object F1, and one end of each of the multiple flexible conductors F12 is located at the edge of the opening F13 in the +X direction and the edge in the -X direction. In addition, multiple through holes F14 are formed around the opening F13 of the fabric F11.

[0105] In addition, the reinforcing sheet 14 also has an opening 14A and a plurality of through holes 14B that are the same as the opening F13 and the plurality of through holes F14 of the connected object F1.

[0106] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first insulator 15 has a flat base 15A extending along the XY plane, and a plurality of protrusions 15B protruding from the base 15A in the +Z direction and arranged in a frame shape. Gaps 15C are formed between adjacent protrusions 15B.

[0107] A rectangular recess 15D with an opening in the -Z direction is formed on the surface of the base 15A. Multiple through holes 15E are formed at the bottom of the recess 15D, extending from the corresponding gap 15C on the +Z direction side of the base 15A into the recess 15D. The multiple through holes 15E correspond to multiple contacts 13, forming a first row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 15D on the +X direction side, and a second row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 15D on the -X direction side.

[0108] Furthermore, at the bottom of the recess 15D, planar retaining surfaces 15F and 15G extending along the XY plane are formed on both sides of each through hole 15E in the X direction. For the first row of through holes 15E arranged in the Y direction relative to the edge of the recess 15D in the +X direction, a retaining surface 15F is disposed on the +X direction side of the through hole 15E, and a retaining surface 15G is disposed on the -X direction side. On the other hand, for the second row of through holes 15E arranged in the Y direction relative to the edge of the recess 15D in the -X direction, a retaining surface 15F is disposed on the -X direction side of the through hole 15E, and a retaining surface 15G is disposed on the +X direction side.

[0109] That is, the retaining surfaces 15F and 15G formed on both sides of each through hole 15E in the X direction are arranged close to the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D, up to the inner wall surface 15H. The inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D constitutes a first opposing surface extending in the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0110] In addition, the recess 15D is formed such that its width in the X direction is greater than that of the opening F13 of the object F1 to which it is connected.

[0111] Furthermore, a plurality of fixing posts 15J protruding in the -Z direction and a plurality of fixing holes 15K extending in the +Z direction are formed on the surface of the base 15A on the -Z direction side.

[0112] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the second insulator 16 has: a flat plate-shaped base 16A extending along the XY plane; a cuboid-shaped protrusion 16B disposed at the center of the base 16A and protruding from the base 16A in the +Z direction; and a plurality of columnar members 16C protruding from the protrusion 16B in the +Z direction.

[0113] When the connector 11 is installed onto the object to be connected, the protrusion 16B is inserted into the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, and has a size slightly smaller than that of the recess 15D. Furthermore, the protrusion 16B is formed such that its width in the X direction is greater than that of the opening F13 of the object to be connected F1.

[0114] Multiple columnar components 16C correspond to multiple contacts 13, forming a first column arranged in the Y direction along the +X direction side of the protrusion 16B, and a second column arranged in the Y direction along the -X direction side of the protrusion 16B.

[0115] In the protrusion 16B, a plurality of concave contact partial receiving portions 16D extending in the -X direction are formed on the side of the plurality of columnar members 16C forming the first row and on the side of the plurality of columnar members 16C forming the second row.

[0116] In addition, a plurality of through holes 16E are formed in the base 16A, which are disposed around the periphery of the protrusion 16B and penetrate the base 16A in the Z direction, and a plurality of fixing posts 16F protruding in the +Z direction.

[0117] In addition, the outer surface 16G of the protrusion 16B forms a second opposing surface extending along the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0118] Figure 8 and Figure 9 Show Figure 3 The structure of the contacts 13 arranged on the +X direction side among the multiple contacts 13 shown.

[0119] The contact 13 is composed of a strip-shaped member formed of a conductive material such as metal, and has a U-shaped portion 13A extending in the Z direction and bent into a U-shape. The U-shaped portion 13A is formed by a pair of elongated portions 13B and 13C extending along the YZ plane and facing each other in the X direction, and a top 13D connecting the +Z direction ends of the pair of elongated portions 13B and 13C. A flat plate portion 13F extending along the YZ plane is connected to the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 13B via a first connecting portion 13E extending along the XY plane. Furthermore, a flat plate portion 13H extending at an angle to the +X direction than the YZ plane is connected to the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 13C via a second connecting portion 13G extending along the XY plane.

[0120] A first contact surface S1A and a second contact surface S2A for contacting the contacts of the other side connector are formed on the outer surface of the +X direction side of the elongation 13B and the outer surface of the -X direction side of the elongation 13C, respectively.

[0121] Furthermore, the -Z direction end of the plate portion 13F is folded back from the +X direction toward the +Z direction, and a first connecting surface S1B is formed on the -X direction side of the folded portion, which contacts the flexible conductor F12 of the connected object F1. Similarly, the -Z direction end of the plate portion 13H is folded back from the +X direction toward the +Z direction, and a second connecting surface S2B is formed on the -X direction side of the folded portion, which contacts the flexible conductor F22 of the connected object F2 (described later). Thus, the first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B do not face opposite directions, but rather face approximately the same direction.

[0122] like Figure 9 As shown, when viewed from the Y direction, the U-shaped portion 13A has a central line C1 extending in the Z direction, and the first contact surface S1A and the second contact surface S2A are arranged in symmetrical positions relative to the central line C1.

[0123] In contrast, the first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B are positioned asymmetrically relative to the central line C1. Specifically, the X-direction length of the second connecting portion 13G is set to be shorter than the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 13E, and the X-direction distance L2 from the central line C1 to the +Z-direction end of the flat plate portion 13H where the second connecting surface S2B is formed is shorter than the X-direction distance L1 from the central line C1 to the flat plate portion 13F. Furthermore, the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 13E is set to be... Figure 5 The lengths of the retaining surfaces 15F within the recess 15D of the first insulator 15 shown are approximately equal in the X direction.

[0124] in addition, Figure 3 The contacts 13 arranged on the -X direction side among the plurality of contacts 13 shown have the same... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The contact 13 shown has the same structure, but is configured to face in the opposite direction relative to the X direction.

[0125] When installing connector 11 onto the object F1, firstly, multiple contacts 13 are pressed into the first insulator 15 from the -Z direction toward the +Z direction, as follows: Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, multiple contacts 13 are temporarily held in the first insulator 15. At this time, the U-shaped portion 13A of each contact 13 is inserted from the recess 15D on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 15 through the corresponding through hole 15E into the gap 15C formed between adjacent protrusions 15B, and the first contact surface S1A and the second contact surface S2A are exposed on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 15.

[0126] In addition, such as Figure 12As shown, the first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting portion 13G of the plurality of contacts 13, as well as the first connecting surface S1B connected to the first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting surface S2B connected to the second connecting portion 13G, are located in the recess 15D.

[0127] Alternatively, the multiple contacts 13 are arranged in two columns, one on the +X direction side and one on the -X direction side. However, the multiple contacts 13 constituting each column can also be manufactured as a bracket (not shown), which temporarily holds the multiple contacts 13 together with the first insulator 15. After temporarily holding the multiple contacts 13 constituting each column, the bracket is removed from the multiple contacts 13.

[0128] The first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting portion 13G of the contact 13 are in contact with the holding surfaces 15F and 15G in the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, respectively. Therefore, the posture in which the first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting portion 13G are held in contact with the holding surfaces 15F and 15G in the recess 15D of the first insulator 15 is called the "first posture".

[0129] As described above, the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 13E of the contact 13 is approximately equal to the X-direction length of the holding surface 15F of the first insulator 15. Therefore, when the contact 13 is held in the housing 12 in a first posture, the flat plate portion 13F of the contact 13 connected to the first connecting portion 13E is in contact with or opposite to the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, and the first connecting surface S1B is in a state facing in the opposite direction to the inner wall surface 15H.

[0130] Here, the plurality of fixing posts 15J of the first insulator 15 are sequentially inserted into the plurality of through holes 14B of the reinforcing sheet 14 and the plurality of through holes F14 of the connecting object F1. After the reinforcing sheet 14 and the connecting object F1 are positioned on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 15, as follows... Figure 12 As shown, the second insulator 16 is moved in the +Z direction to begin assembly with the first insulator 15.

[0131] At this time, the plurality of columnar components 16C of the second insulator 16 are inserted into the inner side of the U-shaped portion 13A of the corresponding contact 13 from the -Z direction.

[0132] Furthermore, the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 passes sequentially from the -Z direction through the opening F13 of the connecting object F1 and the opening 14A of the reinforcing piece 14, and then inserts into the recess 15D of the first insulator 15. At this time, the edges of the opening F13 on the +X direction and the edges on the -X direction are pressed by the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 and bent in the +Z direction, and enter between the outer surface 16G of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 and the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15.

[0133] If this state is maintained and the second insulator 16 moves toward the first insulator 15 in the +Z direction, then as Figure 13 As shown, the first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting portion 13G of the plurality of contacts 13 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side surface of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 and the holding surfaces 15F and 15G within the recess 15D of the first insulator 15. Thus, the plurality of contacts 13 are held in the first insulator 15 and the second insulator 16.

[0134] Furthermore, the flexible conductor F12, exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the object to be connected F1, is bent in the +Z direction by the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16. It is sandwiched between the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, which forms the first opposing surface, and the outer surface 16G of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16, which forms the second opposing surface. It then contacts the first connecting surface S1B of the contact 13, which faces the direction opposite to the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 13 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F12 of the object to be connected F1.

[0135] In addition, the flat plate portion 13H of the plurality of contacts 13 connected to the second connecting portion 13G and the second connecting surface S2B are housed in the corresponding contact partial housing portion 16D of the second insulator 16.

[0136] Furthermore, a plurality of fixing posts 15J of the first insulator 15 penetrate the corresponding through holes 16E of the second insulator 16 and protrude toward the -Z direction side of the second insulator 16, while a plurality of fixing posts 16F of the second insulator 16 are inserted into the corresponding fixing holes 15K of the first insulator 15.

[0137] The second insulator 16 is fixed to the first insulator 15 by heating and deforming the -Z direction end of the fixing post 15J of the first insulator 15 that protrudes toward the -Z direction side of the second insulator 16.

[0138] Therefore, as Figure 1 As shown, the connector 11 is installed onto the connected object F1.

[0139] Although the connector F1 with the connector 11 installed is a connector object with wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F12 exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 facing the +Z direction, the connector 11 of Embodiment 1 is not limited to this.

[0140] The connector 11 can achieve this simply by changing the orientation of the multiple contacts 13 held in the housing 12. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The connection object F2 shown is exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 facing the -Z direction, where the wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F22 is installed.

[0141] Figure 16 The connector 11 is shown when installed on the connected object F2. The contact 13 is temporarily held in the first insulator 15 with the first connecting portion 13E and the second connecting portion 13G respectively contacting the retaining surfaces 15G and 15F within the recess 15D of the first insulator 15. This orientation of the contact 13 relative to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The first posture shown is rotated 180 degrees around the central line C1 of the U-shaped portion 13A extending in the Z direction, and this posture is referred to as the "second posture".

[0142] In the second posture, the second connecting surface S2B of the contact 13 is located closer to the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15 than the first connecting surface S1B, and is in a state opposite to the inner wall surface 15H.

[0143] As described above, the X-direction length of the holding surface 15F of the first insulator 15 is approximately equal to the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 13E of the contact 13, while the X-direction length of the second connecting portion 13G is shorter than the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 13E. Therefore, when the contact 13 is temporarily held in the first insulator 15 in the second posture, the second connecting surface S2B formed on the flat plate portion 13H connected to the second connecting portion 13G does not contact the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, and a predetermined gap is formed between the second connecting surface S2B and the inner wall surface 15H.

[0144] Therefore, the edge of the object F2 is bent in the +Z direction and inserted between the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15 and the second connecting surface S2B of the contact 13.

[0145] In this state, if the second insulator 16 is moved toward the first insulator 15 in the +Z direction, the plurality of columnar members 16C of the second insulator 16 are inserted into the inner side of the U-shaped portion 13A of the corresponding contact 13 from the -Z direction.

[0146] Furthermore, the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 is inserted into the recess 15D of the first insulator 15, and through the protrusion 16B, the flat plate portion 13H of the contact 13 is pressed toward the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15.

[0147] In addition, a tapered portion 16H is formed at the corner of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16, and the flat portion 13H of the contact 13 is configured to be guided by the tapered portion 16H and smoothly pressed into the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15.

[0148] Therefore, as Figure 17 As shown, the second connecting portion 13G and the first connecting portion 13E of the plurality of contacts 13 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 and the holding surfaces 15F and 15G within the recess 15D of the first insulator 15. Thus, the plurality of contacts 13 are held in the first insulator 15 and the second insulator 16.

[0149] Furthermore, the edge portion of the object to be connected, F2, and the flat plate portion 13H of the contact 13 are sandwiched between the inner wall surface 15H of the recess 15D of the first insulator 15 forming the first opposing surface and the outer surface 16G of the protrusion 16B of the second insulator 16 forming the second opposing surface. The flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the object to be connected, F2, contacts the second connecting surface S2B of the contact 13 with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 13 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F22 of the object to be connected, F2.

[0150] In addition, the flat plate portion 13F of the plurality of contacts 13 connected to the first connecting portion 13E and the first connecting surface S1B are housed in the corresponding contact portion 16D of the second insulator 16.

[0151] Therefore, according to embodiment 1, the connector 11 can maintain a mating relationship with the other side connector by simply changing the posture of the contact 13 temporarily held in the first insulator 15 between the first posture and the second posture, for either the connected object F1 or the connected object F2, and can be installed without replacing any of the components of the connector 11. The contact 13 can be electrically connected to the flexible conductor F12 exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the connected object F1 or the flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the connected object F2.

[0152] Implementation Method 2

[0153] Figure 18 and Figure 19The connector 21 of embodiment 2 is shown. The connector 21 is mounted on the connecting object F2 and used as a connector for fitting a wearable device. It has a housing 22 made of insulating material. Within the housing 22, a plurality of contacts 23 are arranged in two parallel rows and are each held to protrude perpendicularly relative to the connecting object F2.

[0154] In addition, connector 21 is installed on the object F2 together with reinforcing piece 14 for strengthening the object F2.

[0155] Connect object F2 and Figure 14 and Figure 15 The connection object F2 shown is the same. The wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F22 is exposed on the lower surface of the cloth F21 made of insulating material in the -Z direction, and the flexible conductors F22 are not exposed on the upper surface of the cloth F21 in the +Z direction.

[0156] For convenience, the direction in which the connected object F2 extends along the XY plane and the arrangement of the multiple contacts 23 is called the Y direction, and the direction in which the multiple contacts 23 protrude is called the +Z direction.

[0157] Figure 20 This is an exploded perspective view of connector 21. Connector 21 has a first insulator 25 and a second insulator 26, which together form housing 22.

[0158] In addition, multiple contacts 23 are temporarily held in the second insulator 26, which sandwiches the object to be connected F2 and the reinforcing piece 14 in the middle, and is assembled in the first insulator 25 along the +Z direction, which is the prescribed assembly direction D1.

[0159] like Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, the first insulator 25 has a flat base 25A extending along the XY plane, and a plurality of protrusions 25B protruding from the base 25A in the +Z direction and arranged in a frame shape. Gaps 25C are formed between adjacent protrusions 25B.

[0160] A rectangular recess 25D opening in the -Z direction is formed on the surface of the base 25A. Multiple through holes 25E are formed at the bottom of the recess 25D, extending from the corresponding gap 25C on the +Z direction side of the base 25A into the recess 25D. The multiple through holes 25E correspond to multiple contacts 23, forming a first row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 25D on the +X direction side, and a second row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 25D on the -X direction side.

[0161] Furthermore, at the bottom of the recess 25D, planar retaining surfaces 25F and 25G extending along the XY plane are formed on both sides of each through hole 25E in the X direction. For the first row of through holes 25E arranged in the Y direction along the +X direction side of the recess 25D, a retaining surface 25F is disposed on the +X direction side of the through hole 25E, and a retaining surface 25G is disposed on the -X direction side. On the other hand, for the second row of through holes 25E arranged in the Y direction along the -X direction side of the recess 25D, a retaining surface 25F is disposed on the -X direction side of the through hole 25E, and a retaining surface 25G is disposed on the +X direction side.

[0162] That is, the retaining surfaces 25F and 25G formed on both sides of each through hole 25E in the X direction are arranged close to the inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D, up to the inner wall surface 25H. The inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D constitutes a first opposing surface extending in the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0163] In addition, the recess 25D is formed such that its width in the X direction is greater than the opening of the object F2 to be connected.

[0164] In addition, a plurality of fixing posts 25J protruding in the -Z direction and a plurality of fixing holes 25K extending in the +Z direction are formed on the surface of the base 25A on the -Z direction side.

[0165] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the second insulator 26 has: a flat plate-shaped base 26A extending along the XY plane; a cuboid-shaped protrusion 26B disposed at the center of the base 26A and protruding from the base 26A in the +Z direction; and a plurality of columnar members 26C protruding from the protrusion 26B in the +Z direction.

[0166] When the connector 21 is installed onto the object to be connected, the protrusion 26B is inserted into the recess 25D of the first insulator 25, and has a size slightly smaller than that of the recess 25D.

[0167] Multiple columnar components 26C correspond to multiple contacts 23, forming a first column arranged in the Y direction along the +X direction side of the protrusion 26B, and a second column arranged in the Y direction along the -X direction side of the protrusion 26B.

[0168] In the protrusion 26B, a plurality of concave contact partial receiving portions 26D extending in the -X direction are formed on the side of the plurality of columnar members 26C forming the first row and on the side of the plurality of columnar members 26C forming the second row.

[0169] In addition, a plurality of through holes 26E are formed in the base 26A, which are disposed around the periphery of the protrusion 26B and penetrate the base 26A in the Z direction, and a plurality of fixing posts 26F protruding in the +Z direction.

[0170] In addition, the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B forms a second opposing surface extending along the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0171] Furthermore, a shoulder 26H is formed on the surface of the protrusion 26B facing the +Z direction, extending from the columnar member 26C to the side of the protrusion 26B close to the columnar member 26C.

[0172] Figure 25 and Figure 26 Show Figure 20 The structure of the contacts 23 arranged on the +X direction side among the multiple contacts 23 shown.

[0173] The contact 23 is composed of a strip-shaped member formed of a conductive material such as metal, and has a U-shaped portion 23A that extends in the Z direction and is bent into a U shape. The U-shaped portion 23A is formed by a pair of elongated portions 23B and 23C that extend along the YZ plane and are opposite to each other in the X direction, and a top 23D that connects the +Z direction ends of the pair of elongated portions 23B and 23C.

[0174] At the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 23B, a flat plate portion 23F extending at an angle to the -X direction is connected via a first connecting portion 23E extending along the XY plane. Furthermore, at the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 23C, a flat plate portion 23H extending along the YZ plane is connected via a second connecting portion 23G extending along the XY plane.

[0175] In addition, the first connecting part 23E has a connection with Figure 22 The first insulator 25 has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the holding surface 25F within the recess 25D. On the other hand, the second connecting portion 23G has a shorter X-direction length than the first connecting portion 23E, and has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the shoulder portion 26H of the outer surface 26G from the columnar member 26C of the second insulator 26 to the protrusion 26B.

[0176] A first contact surface S1A and a second contact surface S2A for contacting the contacts of the other side connector are formed on the outer surface of the -X direction side of the elongation 23B and the outer surface of the +X direction side of the elongation 23C, respectively.

[0177] Furthermore, a second connecting surface S2B, which contacts the flexible conductor F22 of the connected object F2, is formed on the +X direction side of the -Z direction end of the plate portion 23H. Similarly, a first connecting surface S1B, which contacts the flexible conductor F12 of the connected object F1 (described later), is formed on the +X direction side of the -Z direction end of the plate portion 23F. The first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B do not face opposite directions, but rather face approximately the same direction.

[0178] like Figure 26 As shown, when viewed from the Y direction, the U-shaped portion 23A has a central line C2 extending in the Z direction, and the first contact surface S1A and the second contact surface S2A are arranged in symmetrical positions relative to the central line C2.

[0179] In contrast, the first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B are positioned asymmetrically relative to the central line C2. That is, the X-direction length of the second connecting portion 23G is shorter than the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 23E. Therefore, the X-direction distance L4 from the central line C2 to the second connecting surface S2B is shorter than the X-direction distance L3 from the central line C2 to the +Z-direction end of the flat plate portion 23F on which the first connecting surface S1B is formed.

[0180] in addition, Figure 20 The contacts 23 arranged on the -X direction side among the plurality of contacts 23 shown have the same... Figure 25 and Figure 26 The contact 23 shown has the same structure, but is configured to face in the opposite direction relative to the X direction.

[0181] When installing connector 21 onto the object F2, firstly, multiple contacts 23 are pressed into the second insulator 26 from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction, as follows: Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, multiple contacts 23 are temporarily held in the second insulator 26. At this time, the corresponding columnar member 26C of the second insulator 26 is inserted into the inside of the U-shaped portion 23A of each contact 23.

[0182] Alternatively, the multiple contacts 23 are arranged in two columns, one on the +X direction side and one on the -X direction side. However, the multiple contacts 23 constituting each column can also be manufactured as a bracket (not shown), which temporarily holds the multiple contacts 23 together with the second insulator 26. After temporarily holding the multiple contacts 23 constituting each column, the bracket is removed from the multiple contacts 23.

[0183] As described above, the second connecting portion 23G of the contact 23 has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the shoulder portion 26H from the columnar member 26C of the second insulator 26 to the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B. Therefore, the flat plate portion 23H of the contact 23 connected to the second connecting portion 23G is in contact with or opposite to the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26, and the second connecting surface S2B is in a state facing in the opposite direction to the protrusion 26B.

[0184] Here, after positioning the reinforcing piece 14 and the connecting object F2 on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 25, the second insulator 26 is moved in the +Z direction to begin assembly with the first insulator 25.

[0185] At this time, as Figure 29 As shown, the U-shaped portions 23A of the plurality of contacts 23, together with the plurality of columnar components 26C of the second insulator 26, are inserted from the recesses 25D of the first insulator 25 into the corresponding through holes 25E.

[0186] Furthermore, the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 is inserted into the recess 25D of the first insulator 25 from the -Z direction. At this time, the second connecting portion 23G of the contact 23 has a shorter X-direction length than the holding surface 25F of the first insulator 25. Therefore, a gap is formed between the flat portion 23H of the contact 23 and the inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D of the first insulator 25. The edge of the object to be connected, F2, is pressed and bent in the +Z direction by the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 while entering the gap.

[0187] If this state is maintained and the second insulator 26 moves toward the first insulator 25 in the +Z direction, then as Figure 30 As shown, the second connecting portion 23G and the first connecting portion 23E of the plurality of contacts 23 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side surface of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 and the holding surfaces 25F and 25G within the recess 25D of the first insulator 25. Thus, the plurality of contacts 23 are held in the first insulator 25 and the second insulator 26.

[0188] Furthermore, the edge portion of the object to be connected, F2, and the flat plate portion 23H of the contact 23 are sandwiched between the inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D of the first insulator 25 constituting the first opposing surface and the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 constituting the second opposing surface. The flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the object to be connected, F2, contacts the second connecting surface S2B of the contact 23 with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 23 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F22 of the object to be connected, F2.

[0189] In addition, the flat plate portion 23F of the plurality of contacts 23 connected to the first connecting portion 23E and the first connecting surface S1B are housed in the corresponding contact portion 26D of the second insulator 26.

[0190] Furthermore, a plurality of fixing posts 25J of the first insulator 25 penetrate the corresponding through holes 26E of the second insulator 26 and protrude toward the -Z direction side of the second insulator 26, while a plurality of fixing posts 26F of the second insulator 26 are inserted into the corresponding fixing holes 25K of the first insulator 25.

[0191] The second insulator 26 is fixed to the first insulator 25 by heating and deforming the -Z direction end of the fixing post 25J of the first insulator 25 that protrudes toward the -Z direction side of the second insulator 26.

[0192] Therefore, as Figure 18 As shown, the connector 21 is installed onto the connected object F2.

[0193] like Figure 30 As shown, the posture in which the second connecting portion 23G and the first connecting portion 23E of the contact 23 are held in contact with the holding surfaces 25F and 25G in the recess 25D of the first insulator 25 is called the "second posture".

[0194] In the connector 21 of embodiment 2, it is possible to achieve the same result simply by changing the posture of the plurality of contacts 23 held in the housing 22. Figure 31 and Figure 32 The connection object F1 shown is exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 facing the +Z direction, where the wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F12 is installed.

[0195] Figure 33 The connector 21 is shown when installed on the connected object F1. The contact 23 is relative to... Figure 30 The second posture shown is rotated 180 degrees around the central line C2 of the U-shaped portion 23A extending in the Z direction, and this posture is referred to as the "first posture".

[0196] In the first position, the flat plate portion 23H of the contact 23 and the second connecting surface S2B are housed in the contact partial housing portion 26D of the second insulator 26, the flat plate portion 23F of the contact 23 is located close to the inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D of the first insulator 25, and the first connecting surface S1B is in a state facing the opposite direction to the inner wall surface 25H.

[0197] As described above, the first connecting portion 23E of the contact 23 has an X-direction length longer than the shoulder 26H of the second insulator 26, and the flat plate portion 23F connected to the first connecting portion 23E is inclined relative to the YZ plane. Therefore, when the contact 23 is temporarily held in the second insulator 26 in a first posture, the flat plate portion 23F does not contact the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26, and a predetermined gap is formed between the first connecting surface S1B and the outer surface 26G.

[0198] Therefore, the edge of the object F1 is bent in the +Z direction and inserted between the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 and the first connecting surface S1B of the contact 23.

[0199] In this state, if the second insulator 26 is moved toward the first insulator 25 in the +Z direction, the U-shaped portions 23A of the plurality of contacts 23 and the plurality of columnar members 26C of the second insulator 26 are inserted together from the recesses 25D of the first insulator 25 into the corresponding through holes 25E.

[0200] Furthermore, through the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26, the flat portion 23F of the contact 23 is displaced and pressed into the recess 25D of the first insulator 25.

[0201] Therefore, as Figure 34 As shown, the first connecting portion 23E and the second connecting portion 23G of the plurality of contacts 23 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 and the holding surfaces 25F and 25G in the recess 25D of the first insulator 25, and the plurality of contacts 23 are held in the first insulator 25 and the second insulator 26.

[0202] Furthermore, the edge portion of the connecting object F1 and the flat plate portion 23F of the contact 23 are sandwiched between the inner wall surface 25H of the recess 25D of the first insulator 25 constituting the first opposing surface and the outer surface 26G of the protrusion 26B of the second insulator 26 constituting the second opposing surface. The flexible conductor F12 exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the connecting object F1 contacts the first connecting surface S1B of the contact 23 with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 23 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F12 of the connecting object F1.

[0203] Therefore, according to embodiment 2, the connector 21 can maintain a mating relationship with the other side connector by simply changing the posture of the contact 23 temporarily held in the second insulator 26 between the second posture and the first posture, for either the connected object F2 or the connected object F1. Furthermore, the connector 21 can be installed without replacing any of its constituent parts, and the contact 23 can be electrically connected to the flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the connected object F2 or the flexible conductor F12 exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the connected object F1.

[0204] Implementation Method 3

[0205] Figure 35 and Figure 36 The connector 31 of embodiment 3 is shown. The connector 31 is mounted on the object to be connected, F1, and is used as a connector for fitting a wearable device. It has a housing 32 made of insulating material. In the housing 32, a plurality of contacts 33 are arranged in two parallel rows and are each held to protrude perpendicularly relative to the object to be connected, F1.

[0206] In addition, connector 31 is installed on the object F1 together with reinforcing piece 14 for strengthening the object F1.

[0207] Connect object F1 and Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connection object F1 shown is the same. The wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F12 is exposed on the upper surface of the cloth F11 made of insulating material in the +Z direction, and the flexible conductors F12 are not exposed on the lower surface of the cloth F11 in the -Z direction.

[0208] For convenience, the direction in which the connected object F1 extends along the XY plane and the arrangement of the multiple contacts 33 is called the Y direction, and the direction in which the multiple contacts 33 protrude is called the +Z direction.

[0209] Figure 37 This is an exploded perspective view of connector 31. Connector 31 has a first insulator 35 and a second insulator 36, which together form housing 32.

[0210] In addition, multiple contacts 33 are temporarily held in the first insulator 35, and the second insulator 36 sandwiches the connecting object F1 and the reinforcing piece 14 in the middle, and is assembled in the first insulator 35 along the +Z direction, which is the prescribed assembly direction D1.

[0211] like Figure 38 and Figure 39As shown, the first insulator 35 has a flat base 35A extending along the XY plane, and a plurality of protrusions 35B protruding from the base 35A in the +Z direction and arranged in a frame shape. Gaps 35C are formed between adjacent protrusions 35B.

[0212] A rectangular recess 35D with an opening in the -Z direction is formed on the surface of the base 35A. Multiple through holes 35E are formed at the bottom of the recess 35D, extending from the corresponding gap 35C on the +Z direction side of the base 35A into the recess 35D. The multiple through holes 35E correspond to multiple contacts 33, forming a first row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 35D on the +X direction side, and a second row arranged in the Y direction along the edge of the recess 35D on the -X direction side.

[0213] Furthermore, at the bottom of the recess 35D, planar retaining surfaces 35F and 35G extending along the XY plane are formed on both sides of each through hole 35E in the X direction. For the first row of through holes 35E arranged in the Y direction along the +X direction side of the recess 35D, a retaining surface 35F is disposed on the +X direction side of the through hole 35E, and a retaining surface 35G is disposed on the -X direction side. On the other hand, for the second row of through holes 35E arranged in the Y direction along the -X direction side of the recess 35D, a retaining surface 35F is disposed on the -X direction side of the through hole 35E, and a retaining surface 35G is disposed on the +X direction side.

[0214] That is, the retaining surfaces 35F and 35G formed on both sides of each through hole 35E in the X direction are arranged close to the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D, up to the inner wall surface 35H. The inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D constitutes a first opposing surface extending in the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0215] In addition, a plurality of fixing posts 35J protruding in the -Z direction are formed on the surface of the base 35A on the -Z direction side.

[0216] like Figure 40 and Figure 41 As shown, the second insulator 36 has: a flat plate-shaped base 36A extending along the XY plane; a cuboid-shaped protrusion 36B disposed at the center of the base 36A and protruding from the base 36A in the +Z direction; and a plurality of columnar members 36C protruding from the protrusion 36B in the +Z direction.

[0217] When the connector 31 is installed onto the object to be connected, the protrusion 36B is inserted into the recess 35D of the first insulator 35, and has a size slightly smaller than that of the recess 35D.

[0218] Multiple columnar components 36C correspond to multiple contacts 33, forming a first column arranged in the Y direction along the +X direction side of the protrusion 36B, and a second column arranged in the Y direction along the -X direction side of the protrusion 36B.

[0219] In the protrusion 36B, a plurality of concave contact partial receiving portions 36D extending in the -X direction are formed on the side of the plurality of columnar members 36C forming the first row and on the side of the plurality of columnar members 36C forming the second row.

[0220] Furthermore, a plurality of through holes 36E are formed in the base 36A, which are disposed around the periphery of the protrusion 36B and penetrate the base 36A in the Z direction.

[0221] In addition, the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B forms a second opposing surface extending along the Z direction, which is the mating direction.

[0222] Furthermore, a shoulder 36H is formed on the surface of the protrusion 36B facing the +Z direction, extending from the columnar member 36C to the side of the protrusion 36B close to the columnar member 36C.

[0223] Figure 42 and Figure 43 Show Figure 37 The structure of the contacts 33 arranged on the +X direction side among the multiple contacts 33 shown.

[0224] The contact 33 is composed of a strip-shaped member formed of a conductive material such as metal, and has a U-shaped portion 33A extending in the Z direction and bent into a U-shape. The U-shaped portion 33A is formed by a pair of elongated portions 33B and 33C extending along the YZ plane and facing each other in the X direction, and a top 33D connecting the +Z direction ends of the pair of elongated portions 33B and 33C. A flat plate portion 33F extending along the YZ plane is connected to the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 33B via a first connecting portion 33E extending along the XY plane. Furthermore, a flat plate portion 33H extending along the YZ plane is connected to the -Z direction end of the elongated portion 33C via a second connecting portion 33G extending along the XY plane.

[0225] A first contact surface S1A and a second contact surface S2A for contacting the contacts of the other side connector are formed on the outer surface of the +X direction side of the elongation 33B and the outer surface of the -X direction side of the elongation 33C, respectively.

[0226] Furthermore, a first connecting surface S1B, which contacts the flexible conductor F12 of the connected object F1, is formed on the -X direction side of the -Z direction end of the plate portion 33F. Similarly, a second connecting surface S2B, which contacts the flexible conductor F22 of the connected object F2 (described later), is formed on the -X direction side of the -Z direction end of the plate portion 33H. Thus, the first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B do not face opposite directions, but rather face approximately the same direction.

[0227] like Figure 43 As shown, when viewed from the Y direction, the U-shaped portion 33A has a central line C3 extending in the Z direction, and the first contact surface S1A and the second contact surface S2A are arranged in symmetrical positions relative to the central line C3.

[0228] In contrast, the first connecting surface S1B and the second connecting surface S2B are positioned asymmetrically relative to the central line C3. That is, the X-direction length of the second connecting portion 33G is set to be shorter than the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 33E, and the X-direction distance L6 from the central line C3 to the second connecting surface S2B is shorter than the X-direction distance L5 from the central line C3 to the first connecting surface S1B.

[0229] In addition, the first connecting part 33E has a connection with Figure 39 The first insulator 35 has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the holding surface 35F within the recess 35D. On the other hand, the second connecting portion 33G has a shorter X-direction length than the first connecting portion 33E, and has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the shoulder portion 36H of the outer surface 36G from the columnar member 36C of the second insulator 36 to the protrusion 36B.

[0230] also, Figure 37 The contacts 33 arranged on the -X direction side among the plurality of contacts 33 shown have the same characteristics as... Figure 42 and Figure 43 The contact 33 shown has the same structure, but is configured to face in the opposite direction relative to the X direction.

[0231] When installing the connector 31 onto the object F1, firstly, multiple contacts 33 are pressed into the first insulator 35 from the -Z direction toward the +Z direction, as follows: Figure 44 and Figure 45 As shown, multiple contacts 33 are temporarily held in the first insulator 35. At this time, the U-shaped portion 33A of each contact 33 is inserted from the recess 35D on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 35 through the corresponding through hole 35E into the gap 35C formed between adjacent protrusions 35B, and the first contact surface S1A and the second contact surface S2A are exposed on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 35.

[0232] In addition, such as Figure 46As shown, the first connecting portion 33E and the second connecting portion 33G of the plurality of contacts 33, as well as the first connecting surface S1B connected to the first connecting portion 33E and the second connecting surface S2B connected to the second connecting portion 33G, are located in the recess 35D.

[0233] Alternatively, the multiple contacts 33 are arranged in two columns, one on the +X direction side and one on the -X direction side. However, the multiple contacts 33 constituting each column can also be manufactured as a bracket (not shown), which temporarily holds the multiple contacts 33 together with the first insulator 35. After temporarily holding the multiple contacts 33 constituting each column, the bracket is removed from the multiple contacts 33.

[0234] The first connecting portion 33E and the second connecting portion 33G of the contact 33 are in contact with the holding surfaces 35F and 35G in the recess 35D of the first insulator 35, respectively. Therefore, the posture in which the first connecting portion 33E and the second connecting portion 33G are held in contact with the holding surfaces 35F and 35G in the recess 35D of the first insulator 35 is called the "first posture".

[0235] As described above, the X-direction length of the first connecting portion 33E of the contact 33 is approximately equal to the X-direction length of the holding surface 35F of the first insulator 35. Therefore, when the contact 33 is held in the housing 32 in a first posture, the flat plate portion 33F of the contact 33 connected to the first connecting portion 33E is in contact with or opposite to the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35, and the first connecting surface S1B is in a state facing in the opposite direction to the inner wall surface 35H.

[0236] Here, as Figure 46 As shown, after the reinforcing piece 14 and the connecting object F1 are positioned on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 35, the second insulator 36 is moved in the +Z direction to begin assembly with the first insulator 35.

[0237] At this time, the plurality of columnar components 36C of the second insulator 36 are inserted into the inner side of the U-shaped portion 33A of the corresponding contact 33 from the -Z direction.

[0238] Furthermore, the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 is inserted into the recess 35D of the first insulator 35 from the -Z direction. At this time, the edge of the object F1 being connected is pressed by the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 and bent in the +Z direction, and enters between the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 and the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35.

[0239] If this state is maintained and the second insulator 36 moves toward the first insulator 35 in the +Z direction, then as Figure 47As shown, the first connecting portion 33E and the second connecting portion 33G of the plurality of contacts 33 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side surface of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 and the holding surfaces 35F and 35G within the recess 35D of the first insulator 35. Thus, the plurality of contacts 33 are held in the first insulator 35 and the second insulator 36.

[0240] Furthermore, the flexible conductor F12, exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the object to be connected F1, is bent in the +Z direction by being pressed by the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36. It is sandwiched between the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35, which forms the first opposing surface, and the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36, which forms the second opposing surface. It then contacts the first connecting surface S1B of the contact 33, which faces the direction opposite to the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35, with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 33 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F12 of the object to be connected F1.

[0241] In addition, the flat plate portion 33H of the plurality of contacts 33 connected to the second connecting portion 33G and the second connecting surface S2B are housed in the corresponding contact partial housing portion 36D of the second insulator 36.

[0242] Furthermore, a plurality of fixing posts 35J of the first insulator 35 protrude into the -Z direction side of the second insulator 36 through the corresponding through holes 36E of the second insulator 36. The second insulator 36 is fixed to the first insulator 35 by heating the -Z direction end of the fixing post 35J.

[0243] Therefore, as Figure 35 As shown, the connector 31 is installed onto the connected object F1.

[0244] In the connector 31 of embodiment 3, it is possible to achieve the same result simply by changing the posture of the plurality of contacts 33 held in the housing 32. Figure 48 and Figure 49 The connection object F2 shown is exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 facing the -Z direction, where the wiring formed by multiple flexible conductors F22 is installed.

[0245] When installing connector 31 onto the object F2, firstly, multiple contacts 33 are pressed into the second insulator 36 from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction, as follows: Figure 50 and Figure 51 As shown, multiple contacts 33 are temporarily held in place by the second insulator 36. At this time, each contact 33 is relative to... Figure 46 and Figure 47 The first posture shown is temporarily held in the second insulator 36 in a "second posture" that is flipped 180 degrees around the central line C3 of the U-shaped portion 33A extending in the Z direction.

[0246] As described above, the second connecting portion 33G of the contact 33 has a length in the X direction that is approximately the same as the shoulder portion 36H of the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B from the columnar member 36C of the second insulator 36. Therefore, the flat plate portion 33H of the contact 33 connected to the second connecting portion 33G is in contact with or opposite to the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36, and the second connecting surface S2B is in a state facing in the opposite direction to the protrusion 36B.

[0247] like Figure 52 As shown, after the reinforcing piece 14 and the connecting object F2 are positioned on the -Z direction side of the first insulator 35, the second insulator 36 is moved in the +Z direction to begin assembly with the first insulator 35.

[0248] At this time, the U-shaped portions 33A of the multiple contacts 33 together with the multiple columnar components 36C of the second insulator 36 are inserted from the recesses 35D of the first insulator 35 into the corresponding through holes 35E.

[0249] Furthermore, the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 is inserted into the recess 35D of the first insulator 35 from the -Z direction. At this time, the second connecting portion 33G of the contact 33 has a shorter X-direction length than the holding surface 35F of the first insulator 35. Therefore, a gap is formed between the flat portion 33H of the contact 33 and the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35. The edge portion of the object to be connected, F2, is pressed and bent in the +Z direction by the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 while entering the gap.

[0250] If this state is maintained and the second insulator 36 moves toward the first insulator 35 in the +Z direction, then as Figure 53 As shown, the second connecting portion 33G and the first connecting portion 33E of the plurality of contacts 33 are sandwiched between the +Z direction side surface of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 and the holding surfaces 35F and 35G within the recess 35D of the first insulator 35. Thus, the plurality of contacts 33 are held in the first insulator 35 and the second insulator 36.

[0251] Furthermore, the edge portion of the object to be connected, F2, and the flat plate portion 33H of the contact 33 are sandwiched between the inner wall surface 35H of the recess 35D of the first insulator 35 forming the first opposing surface and the outer surface 36G of the protrusion 36B of the second insulator 36 forming the second opposing surface. The flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the object to be connected, F2, contacts the second connecting surface S2B of the contact 33 with a predetermined contact pressure. Thus, the contact 33 is electrically connected to the flexible conductor F22 of the object to be connected, F2.

[0252] In addition, the plate portion 33F of the plurality of contacts 33 connected to the first connecting portion 33E and the first connecting surface S1B are housed in the corresponding contact portion 36D of the second insulator 36.

[0253] Furthermore, a plurality of fixing posts 35J of the first insulator 35 protrude into the -Z direction side of the second insulator 36 through the corresponding through holes 36E of the second insulator 36. The second insulator 36 is fixed to the first insulator 35 by heating the -Z direction end of the fixing post 35J.

[0254] Therefore, as Figure 48 As shown, the connector 31 is installed onto the connected object F1.

[0255] Therefore, according to the connector 31 of embodiment 3, by temporarily holding the plurality of contacts 33 in a first posture to the first insulator 35 or temporarily holding the plurality of contacts 33 in a second posture to the second insulator 36, the mating relationship with the connector on the other side can be maintained for either the connected object F1 or the connected object F2, and the connector 31 can be installed without replacing any of the constituent parts of the connector 31, and the contacts 33 can be electrically connected to the flexible conductor F12 exposed on the upper surface of the fabric F11 of the connected object F1 or the flexible conductor F22 exposed on the lower surface of the fabric F21 of the connected object F2.

[0256] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 to 3 described above, the multiple contacts 13, 23, and 33 are arranged in two parallel columns, but this is not a limitation; they can also be arranged in a single column. Moreover, the present invention does not necessarily require multiple contacts 13, 23, and 33; at least one contact 13, 23, or 33 is sufficient.

[0257] In addition, in embodiments 1 to 3, the first opposing surfaces (the inner wall surfaces 15H, 25H, and 35H of the first insulators 15, 25, and 35) and the second opposing surfaces (the outer surfaces 16G, 26G, and 36G of the second insulators 16, 26, and 36) extend along the Z direction, which is the mating direction. The first connecting surface S1B of the contacts 13, 23, and 33 and the flexible conductor F12 of the connected object F1, or the second connecting surface S2B of the contacts 13, 23, and 33 and the flexible conductor F22 of the connected object F2 are sandwiched between these first opposing surfaces and second opposing surfaces, and are in contact with each other in the X direction, which is orthogonal to the mating direction, but are not limited to this. For example, the first and second opposing surfaces may extend in directions orthogonal to the mating direction, and the first connecting surface S1B of contacts 13, 23, 33 and the flexible conductor F12 of the object to be connected F1, or the second connecting surface S2B of contacts 13, 23, 33 and the flexible conductor F22 of the object to be connected F2, are sandwiched between the first and second opposing surfaces and are in contact with each other in the mating direction.

[0258] Furthermore, while clothing equipped with smart textiles is exemplified as the connection objects F1 and F2 of the mounting connectors 11, 21, and 31, a so-called flexible substrate with flexible conductors disposed on the surface of the insulating substrate may also be used as the connection objects F1 and F2.

[0259] In embodiments 1 to 3, connectors 11, 21, and 31 are installed together with reinforcing piece 14 on the connected objects F1 and F2. However, if it is not necessary to reinforce the connected objects F1 and F2, the reinforcing piece 14 may be omitted.

Claims

1. A connector, mounted on a connecting object with one side of a flexible conductor exposed and engaging with a connector on the opposite side along the engagement direction, characterized in that, The connector includes: The housing is mounted on the connected object; and At least one contact is selectively held in the housing in either a first or a second posture, which are rotated 180 degrees relative to each other about the engagement direction, and is made of a conductive material. The housing is composed of a first insulator and a second insulator that sandwich the connected objects in the middle and assemble them together along a predetermined assembly direction. The contact has a contact portion that protrudes from the first insulator in the mating direction for contacting the contact of the opposite connector, and a connection portion that connects to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected. When the contact is held in the housing in the first posture and when the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the contact portion is disposed in the same position relative to the housing, and the connecting portion is disposed in different positions relative to the housing. The contact is held in the housing in the first and second postures, corresponding to the orientation of the exposed surface of the connected object of the flexible conductor; The contact has a first contact surface and a second contact surface arranged symmetrically with respect to the central line along the engagement direction and facing opposite directions, as well as a first connecting surface connected to the first contact surface and a second connecting surface connected to the second contact surface. The first connecting surface and the second connecting surface are positioned asymmetrically relative to the central line. Regardless of whether the contact is held in the housing in the first posture or the second posture, at least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface serves as the contact portion to contact the contact of the other-side connector. When the contact is held in the housing in the first posture, the first connecting surface serves as the connecting portion and is connected to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected. When the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the second connecting surface is connected to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected as the connecting part; The contact has a first connecting portion disposed between the first contact surface and the first connecting surface, and a second connecting portion disposed between the second contact surface and the second connecting surface, and is held in the housing by being sandwiched between the first insulator and the second insulator through the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

2. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first insulator has a first opposing surface extending along the mating direction. The second insulator has a second opposing surface extending along the mating direction and facing the first opposing surface. The flexible conductor of the connected object and the connecting portion of the contact are electrically connected to each other in a state where they are sandwiched between the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface.

3. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, With the contact held in the first posture within the housing, the first connecting surface of the contact is located on the first opposing surface side, and the flexible conductor of the object to be connected is located on the second opposing surface side. When the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the second connecting surface of the contact is located on the second opposing surface side, and the flexible conductor of the connected object is located on the first opposing surface side.

4. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second insulator has a concave contact portion for receiving contacts. With the contact held in the housing in the first posture, the second connecting surface is housed within the contact partial housing portion. When the contact is held in the housing in the second posture, the first connecting surface is housed in the contact partial housing portion.

5. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are sandwiched between the first insulator and the second insulator in the prescribed assembly direction.

6. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The specified assembly direction is the same as the fitting direction.

7. A connection method, comprising connecting the contacts of the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6 to a flexible conductor exposed on one side of the object to be connected, characterized in that, The first or second insulator of the housing temporarily holds the contact in a posture corresponding to the orientation of the exposed surface of the flexible conductor of the connected object in the first or second posture. The connecting object is disposed between the first insulator and the second insulator. By assembling the first insulator and the second insulator together along the specified assembly direction, the connecting portion of the contact is connected to the flexible conductor of the object to be connected.

8. The connection method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The connecting portion of the temporarily held contact is configured to be displaceable, and is positioned opposite a first opposing surface of the first insulator or a second opposing surface of the second insulator, separated by a gap larger than the thickness of the flexible conductor. By assembling the first insulator and the second insulator together with the flexible conductor inserted between the connecting portion and the first opposing surface or the second opposing surface, the connecting portion is displaced between the first opposing surface and the second opposing surface and is pressed against the flexible conductor to form a connection.

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