connector

Abstract

The present invention discloses a connector, comprising two retaining members, two terminal rows, an intermediate plate and a housing. Each retaining member is lightly press-fitted into the housing. Each terminal row has a plurality of terminals. The terminals of each terminal row include a set terminal. The set terminal has an exposed portion. The exposed portion is at least partially exposed from the retaining member in the up-down direction perpendicular to the spacing direction. The intermediate plate has a receiving portion. The exposed portion contacts the receiving portion. At least one lightly press-fit portion is formed in one of the retaining members and the housing. In the front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the spacing direction, the position of at least one lightly press-fit portion overlaps with the position of the exposed portion. The connector of the present invention can ensure more reliable contact between the set terminal and the intermediate plate through a structure different from the conventional connector structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a connector comprising a terminal row and an intermediate plate. Background Art

[0002] Reference Fig.53 and Fig.54 , the connector 900 disclosed in publication number CN204927638 (patent document 1) includes two retaining members 910, two terminal rows 920, an intermediate plate 940 and a housing 950. The two retaining members 910 correspond to the two terminal rows 920, respectively. Each terminal row 920 is held by a corresponding retaining member 910. Each terminal row 920 has a plurality of terminals 922. In each terminal row 920, the terminals 922 are arranged along the Y direction. The terminals 922 of each terminal row 920 include two set terminals 924. Each set terminal 924 has a protrusion 9242. The intermediate plate 940 is clamped by the two retaining members 910 in the Z direction. The intermediate plate 940 has spring sheets 942, 944. The protrusion 9242 of the set terminal 924 located on the positive Z side of the intermediate plate 940 contacts the spring sheet 942. The protrusion 9242 of the setting terminal 924 located on the negative Z-side of the intermediate plate 940 is in contact with the spring piece 944 .

[0003] In the connector 900 of Patent Document 1, the protrusion 9242 is formed by bending a part of the setting terminal 924. The spring pieces 942, 944 are formed by cutting a part of the intermediate plate 940 and bending the part. The spring pieces 942, 944 are pressed against the protrusion 9242. The connector 900 of Patent Document 1 ensures reliable contact between the setting terminal 924 and the intermediate plate 940 by the elastic characteristics of the spring pieces 942, 944.

[0004] It can be seen that there is a need to design a connector that ensures more reliable contact between the set terminal and the intermediate board by having a structure different from that of a conventional connector such as the connector 900 of Patent Document 1. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a connector which ensures more reliable contact between a set terminal and an intermediate board by means of a structure different from that of a conventional connector.

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0007] On one hand, the present invention provides a connector, comprising two retaining members, two terminal rows, an intermediate plate and a housing. Each retaining member corresponds to each terminal row. Each retaining member is lightly press-fitted into the housing. Each terminal row is retained by the corresponding retaining member. Each terminal row has a plurality of terminals. In each terminal row, each terminal is arranged along a spacing direction. The terminals of each terminal row include a set terminal. The set terminal has an exposed portion. The exposed portion is at least partially exposed from the retaining member in an up-and-down direction perpendicular to the spacing direction. The intermediate plate is clamped by two retaining members in the up-and-down direction. The intermediate plate has a receiving portion. The exposed portion contacts the receiving portion. One of the retaining member and the housing is formed with at least one lightly press-fit portion. In a front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-and-down direction and the spacing direction, the position of at least one lightly press-fit portion overlaps with the position of the exposed portion.

[0008] The structure of the connector of the present invention is as follows: each retaining member is lightly press-fitted into the housing; the exposed portion of the set terminal is in contact with the receiving portion of the intermediate plate; at least one lightly press-fit portion is formed in one of the retaining member and the housing; and in the front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the spacing direction, the position of at least one lightly press-fit portion overlaps with the position of the exposed portion. Specifically, the connector of the present invention is configured so that the set terminal retained by the retaining member contacts the intermediate plate by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the retaining member into the housing. This enables the connector of the present invention to ensure more reliable contact between the set terminal and the intermediate plate through a structure different from the structure of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the connector is shown.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the connector taken along the line AA is shown.

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front view of the connector is shown.

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The BB cross-sectional view of the connector is shown. In the figure, a part of the structural body is shown in an enlarged manner.

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 1An exploded perspective view of the connector is shown.

[0015] Figure 7 is included in Figure 2 A top view of the structural body in the connector shown in FIG. In the figure, the intermediate plate is clamped by two holding members in the up and down directions.

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A front view of the structural body is shown.

[0017] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A CC cross-sectional view of the structural body is shown.

[0018] Fig.10 is included in Figure 2 A top view of the middle plate in the connector is shown.

[0019] Fig.11 is a stereogram of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Figure 6 connector shown.

[0020] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A front view of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members is shown.

[0021] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A DD-sectional view of a set of terminal blocks and a retaining member is shown.

[0022] Fig.14 is included in Figure 6 A perspective view of one terminal block in a connector is shown.

[0023] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 Shown is a top view of the terminal strip.

[0024] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 Shown is a side view of a terminal strip.

[0025] Fig.17 yes Fig.14 Shown is the front view of the terminal strip.

[0026] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 EE cross-sectional view of the terminal block is shown.

[0027] Fig.19 FIG. 1 is a top view of a structural body included in a connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19A front view of the structural body is shown.

[0029] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A FF cross-sectional view of the structural body is shown.

[0030] Fig. 22 is a stereogram of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Fig.19 In the structural body shown.

[0031] Fig.23 FIG. 1 is a top view of a structural body included in a connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A front view of the structural body is shown.

[0033] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 A GG cross-sectional view of the structural body is shown.

[0034] Fig.26 is a stereogram of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Fig.23 In the structural body shown.

[0035] Fig. 27 4 is a perspective view of a connector according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 A top view of the connector is shown.

[0037] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 A cross-sectional view of the connector taken along the HH line is shown.

[0038] Fig.30 yes Fig. 27 A front view of the connector is shown.

[0039] Fig.31 yes Fig.30 A sectional view taken along line II of the connector is shown.

[0040] Fig.32 yes Fig. 27 An exploded perspective view of the connector is shown.

[0041] Fig.33 is a stereogram of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Fig.32 connector shown.

[0042] Fig.34 is included in Fig.32A top view of a terminal block in a connector is shown.

[0043] Fig.35 yes Fig.34 A JJ-sectional view of the terminal block is shown.

[0044] Fig.36 yes Fig.34 Shown is a side view of a terminal strip.

[0045] Fig.37 yes Fig.34 Shown is the front view of the terminal strip.

[0046] Fig.38 4 is a top view of a connector according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig.39 yes Fig.38 A KK sectional view of the connector is shown.

[0048] Fig.40 yes Fig.38 A front view of the connector is shown.

[0049] Fig.41 yes Fig.40 An LL cross-sectional view of the connector is shown.

[0050] Fig.42 is a top view of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Fig.38 connector shown.

[0051] Fig.43 yes Fig.42 A perspective view of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members is shown.

[0052] Fig.44 yes Fig.42 A front view of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members is shown.

[0053] Fig.45 yes Fig.44 A sectional view taken along the MM line of a set of terminal blocks and a retaining member is shown.

[0054] Fig.46 is included in Fig.38 A perspective view of a terminal block in a connector is shown.

[0055] Fig.47 4 is a perspective view of a connector according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Fig.48 yes Fig.47 A front view of the connector is shown.

[0057] Fig.49 yes Fig.48 A sectional view taken along the line N--N of the connector is shown.

[0058] Fig.50 yes Fig.47 An exploded perspective view of the connector is shown.

[0059] Fig.51 is a front view of a set of terminal blocks and retaining members, wherein the terminal blocks and retaining members are included in Fig.50 connector shown.

[0060] Fig.52 yes Fig.51 A cross-sectional view taken along the OO direction is shown of a set of terminal blocks and a retaining member.

[0061] Fig.53 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector of Patent Document 1.

[0062] Fig.54 is included in Fig.53 A perspective view of the intermediate plate and terminal block in the connector is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] [First embodiment]

[0064] Reference Figure 1 , the connector 100 of the first embodiment of the present invention is matchable with a matching connector (not shown) including a matching contact (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. In this embodiment, the front-to-back direction is the X direction. Specifically, it is assumed that the forward direction is the positive X direction and the backward direction is the negative X direction. In detail, the connector 100 of this embodiment is a plug matchable with a USB (Universal Serial Bus) Type-C socket. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the connector 100 can be a plug matchable with a socket other than a USB (Universal Serial Bus) Type-C socket.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the connector 100 includes two holding members 200, two terminal blocks 300, an intermediate plate 600 and a housing 700. Figure 8 As shown, two holding members 200 , two terminal blocks 300 , and an intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650 .

[0066] Reference Figure 8 , each holding member 200 of this embodiment is made of resin. Each holding member 200 corresponds to each terminal row 300. Each holding member 200 is positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is held between two holding members 200 in the up-down direction. In this embodiment, the up-down direction is the Z direction. Specifically, it is assumed that the upward direction is the positive Z direction and the downward direction is the negative Z direction. Figure 3, each retaining member 200 is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700. Specifically, each retaining member 200 is directly lightly press-fitted into the housing 700. Each retaining member 200 is formed with a plurality of lightly press-fit portions 210. More specifically, each retaining member 200 is formed with two lightly press-fit portions 210. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, one of the retaining member 200 and the housing 700 should be formed with at least one lightly press-fit portion 210.

[0067] from Figure 7 and Figure 8 To understand, each light press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment is a protruding rib that protrudes outward in the up-down direction and extends in the front-back direction. Two light press-fit portions 210 are provided on each retaining member 200. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, each light press-fit portion 210 is in contact with the housing 700. More specifically, each light press-fit portion 210 is in contact with the inner side of the housing 700 in the up-down direction. Each light press-fit portion 210 is in line contact with the inner side of the housing 700 in the up-down direction.

[0068] Reference Figure 7 , each holding member 200 of the present embodiment is formed with two holes 230. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of the hole 230 may be one.

[0069] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 7 , each hole 230 of the present embodiment has a shape of a substantially cylindrical tube extending in the up-down direction. Each hole 230 penetrates the retaining member 200 in the up-down direction. The hole 230 is adjacent to the light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. Specifically, each hole 230 corresponds to each light press-fit portion 210, respectively, and each hole 230 is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each hole 230 is located outwardly beyond the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 and adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210. In other words, each light press-fit portion 210 is adjacent to the corresponding hole 230 in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each light press-fit portion 210 is positioned inwardly beyond the corresponding hole 230 and adjacent to the corresponding hole 230. In the present embodiment, the pitch direction is the Y direction.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, each terminal row 300 is separated from each other in the up-down direction, and the middle plate 600 is located between them in the up-down direction. Each terminal row 300 is held by a corresponding holding member 200. More specifically, each terminal row 300 is insert-molded in the corresponding holding member 200.

[0071] As described above, each light press-fit portion 210 is in contact with the housing 700 and each terminal row 300 is held by the corresponding retaining member 200. Specifically, the posture of each terminal row 300 relative to the housing 700 is defined by the contact state of the light press-fit portion 210 on the housing 700. In the connector 100 of the present embodiment, each light press-fit portion 210 is in contact with the inner line of the housing 700 in the up and down directions as described above. This makes the posture of each terminal row 300 relative to the housing 700 horizontal, which is its correct posture. This can also prevent the posture of each terminal row 300 from deviating from the correct posture. From this point of view, the light press-fit portion 210 is expected to be a protruding rib that extends as long as possible in the front-to-back direction.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, each terminal row 300 has a plurality of terminals 400 .

[0073] Reference Fig.14 , each terminal 400 of the present embodiment is made of metal. In each terminal row 300, each terminal 400 is arranged along the pitch direction. The terminal 400 of each terminal row 300 includes a plurality of signal terminals 450 and two setting terminals 500. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the terminal 400 of each terminal row 300 should include at least one setting terminal 500.

[0074] like Fig.11 and Fig.14 As shown, each signal terminal 450 of the present embodiment has a held portion 452 , a supporting portion 453 , and a contact portion 454 .

[0075] like Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 4 , the held portion 452 of this embodiment is located behind the supporting portion 453 in the front-rear direction. Fig.11 and Fig.14 , the held portion 452 is partially held by the holding member 200 .

[0076] Reference Fig.14 The supporting portion 453 of this embodiment is elastically deformable and extends forward from the held portion 452 along the front-rear direction.

[0077] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.14 The contact portion 454 of the present embodiment is supported by the support portion 453 so as to be movable in the up-down direction. The contact portion 454 is positioned around the front end of the signal terminal 450 in the front-back direction.

[0078] like Fig.11 As shown, each setting terminal 500 of the present embodiment has an exposed portion 510 .

[0079] like Fig.11As shown, the exposed portion 510 of the present embodiment has a plate-like shape intersecting the up-down direction. More specifically, the exposed portion 510 has a plate-like shape perpendicular to the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510 is exposed from the retaining member 200 in the up-down direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the exposed portion 510 should be at least partially exposed from the retaining member 200 in the up-down direction perpendicular to the pitch direction. Fig. 9 As shown, the hole 230 and the exposed portion 510 are located on a common axis parallel to the up-down direction. Specifically, each hole 230 corresponds to each exposed portion 510, and the hole 230 and the corresponding exposed portion 510 are located on a common axis parallel to the up-down direction. The hole 230 reaches the corresponding exposed portion 510 in the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510 is located between the corresponding hole 230 and the middle plate 600 in the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510 is positioned inwardly beyond the corresponding hole 230 in the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510 is positioned at the same position as the corresponding hole 230 in the front-to-back direction. As shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the exposed portion 510 is located at the same position as the corresponding hole 230 in the pitch direction. The exposed portion 510 is located outwardly beyond the middle plate 600 in the up-down direction. The light press-fit portion 210 is located inwardly beyond the exposed portion 510 in the pitch direction. Specifically, each light press-fit portion 210 corresponds to each exposed portion 510, and the light press-fit portion 210 is located inwardly beyond the corresponding exposed portion 510 in the pitch direction. Fig. 9 As shown, in the front-to-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the corresponding exposed portion 510. The above-mentioned holes 230 are hollow portions formed in the holding member 200 in the following manner: the terminal 500 is set to be insert-molded in the holding member 200, while a part of the metal mold abuts against the exposed portion 510 from its outer side in the up-down direction so that each exposed portion 510 is appropriately exposed from the holding member 200; and this part of the metal mold is removed from the molded holding member 200.

[0080] As described above, each holding member 200 is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700, and in the front-to-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the lightly press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the corresponding exposed portion 510. Therefore, the connector 100 of the present embodiment is configured so that the setting terminal 500 held by the holding member 200 contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the holding member 200 into the housing 700. This allows the connector 100 of the present embodiment to ensure more reliable contact between each setting terminal 500 and the intermediate plate 600 by its structure different from that of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1.

[0081] like Fig.14 As shown, the setting terminal 500 of the present embodiment includes a held portion 520 , a supporting portion 530 , and a contact portion 540 .

[0082] like Fig.13 As shown, the held portion 520 of this embodiment is located behind the supporting portion 530 in the front-rear direction. The held portion 520 is at least partially held by the holding member 200. The exposed portion 510 is formed on the held portion 520. The held portion 520 has an embedded portion 522 and a protruding portion 524.

[0083] like Fig.13 As shown, the embedded portion 522 of the present embodiment is located behind the protruding portion 524 in the front-to-back direction. The embedded portion 522 is positioned outwardly beyond the exposed portion 510 in the up-down direction. The embedded portion 522 is embedded in the retaining member 200. The exposed portion 510 is located between the contact portion 540 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The exposed portion 510 is located between the supporting portion 530 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction.

[0084] like Fig. 9 As shown, the protrusion 524 of the present embodiment is located in front of the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The protrusion 524 protrudes toward the middle plate 600, exceeding any one of the embedded portion 522 and the support portion 530. The protrusion 524 is located between the contact portion 540 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The protrusion 524 is located between the support portion 530 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The support portion 530 extends forward from the protrusion 524 in the front-to-back direction. The exposed portion 510 is provided on the protrusion 524.

[0085] Reference Figure 7 and Fig. 9 In the front-to-back direction, the protrusion 524 is at least partially covered by the holding member 200 at any position of the protrusion 524. When the terminal block 300 is insert-molded in the corresponding holding member 200, the position of the contact portion 540 of the setting terminal 500 can be easily aligned with the contact portion 454 of the signal terminal 450 in the up-down direction (see FIG. Fig.11 ) position.

[0086] Reference Fig.14 The supporting portion 530 of this embodiment can be elastically deformed. The supporting portion 530 extends forward from the held portion 520 in the front-to-back direction. Fig.13 As shown, a portion of the support portion 530 is held by the holding member 200. More specifically, the rear end of the support portion 530 is held by the holding member 200.

[0087] like Fig.14As shown, the contact portion 540 of the present embodiment is supported by the support portion 530 so as to be movable in the up-down direction. The contact portion 540 is positioned around the front end of the setting terminal 500 in the front-back direction.

[0088] Reference Fig.10 The intermediate plate 600 of this embodiment is made of metal. The intermediate plate 600 has receiving portions 610. Each receiving portion 610 has a plate shape perpendicular to the up and down directions. Figure 3 As shown, the middle plate 600 is clamped in the two holding members 200 in the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510 contacts the receiving portion 610. More specifically, the exposed portion 510 is pressed against the receiving portion 610. The exposed portion 510 is pressed against the receiving portion 610 from its outer side in the up-down direction.

[0089] Reference Figure 4 The housing 700 of this embodiment is made of metal. The housing 700 has a tubular shape with a substantially elliptical cross section. The housing 700 defines the outer end of the connector 100 in a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction.

[0090] As described above, each light press-fit portion 210 contacts the housing 700, the exposed portion 510 of the setting terminal 500 contacts the receiving portion 610 of the intermediate plate 600, and the setting terminal 500 held by the retaining member 200 contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the retaining member 200 into the housing 700. Therefore, it is ideal that the light press-fit portion 210 is arranged on a common axis parallel to the up-down direction with the corresponding exposed portion 510. However, as described above, the hole 230 formed by the insert molding is arranged on a common axis passing through the corresponding exposed portion 510 and parallel to the up-down direction. Therefore, the light press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment is arranged at a position adjacent to the corresponding hole 230 in the pitch direction. In view of the above, it is preferred that the light press-fit portion 210 is positioned as close as possible to the axis passing through the corresponding exposed portion 510 in the pitch direction.

[0091] like Figure 6 As shown, the connector 100 of the present embodiment includes a front insulator 750 and two ground springs 800. Specifically, the front insulator 750 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0092] Reference Figure 5 , the front insulator 750 of the present embodiment is made of resin. The front insulator 750 defines the front end of the connector 100 in the front-to-rear direction. The front insulator 750 is located in front of any holding member 200 in the front-to-rear direction. Each holding member 200 is directly and lightly press-fitted into the housing 700 without the front insulator 750 being inserted therebetween. The front insulator 750 is held by the housing 700. Referring to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Fig.14 , the support portion 453 and the contact portion 454 of the signal terminal 450 are both located in the front insulator 750. In the front-to-back direction, the position of the support portion 453 overlaps with the position of the front insulator 750. In the front-to-back direction, the position of the contact portion 454 overlaps with the position of the front insulator 750. The support portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of the setting terminal 500 are both located in the front insulator 750. In the front-to-back direction, the position of the support portion 530 overlaps with the position of the front insulator 750. In the front-to-back direction, the position of the contact portion 540 overlaps with the position of the front insulator 750.

[0093] Reference Figure 5 , each grounding spring 800 of the present embodiment is made of metal. Each grounding spring 800 is partially clamped by the housing 700 and the front insulator 750, and is partially held by the housing 700 and the front insulator 750. Each grounding spring 800 is positioned around the front end of the connector 100 in the front-to-back direction. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Each grounding spring 800 is located in front of any terminal row 300 in the front-to-back direction. Each grounding spring 800 is located in front of any signal terminal 450 in the front-to-back direction. Each grounding spring 800 is located in front of any set terminal 500 in the front-to-back direction.

[0094] [Second embodiment]

[0095] Reference Fig.19 The connector (not shown) of the second embodiment of the present invention is a Figure 1 The connector 100 of the first embodiment is shown as a modification. Fig. 20 , the connector of this embodiment is mateable with a matching connector (not shown) including a matching contact (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. The connector 100 of this embodiment includes two retaining members 200A, two terminal rows 300, an intermediate plate 600, a housing (not shown), a front insulator (not shown) and two grounding springs (not shown). The two retaining members 200A, the two terminal rows 300 and the intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650A. Except for the retaining members 200A and the structural body 650A, the connector of this embodiment has a structure similar to the connector 100 of the aforementioned first embodiment. Figures 19 to 22 The components of the connector shown are the same as those of the first embodiment connector 100 and are indicated by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment connector 100. With respect to directions and orientations in this embodiment, the same expressions as those of the first embodiment will be used below.

[0096] Reference Fig. 20, each retaining member 200A of the present embodiment is made of resin. Each retaining member 200A corresponds to each terminal row 300 respectively. Each terminal row 300 is retained by a corresponding retaining member 200A. More specifically, each terminal row 300 is insert-molded in a corresponding retaining member 200A. The retaining members 200A are positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two retaining members 200A in the up-down direction. Each retaining member 200A is lightly press-fitted into the housing. Each retaining member 200A is formed with a plurality of lightly press-fit portions 210. More specifically, each retaining member 200A is formed with two lightly press-fit portions 210. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, one of the retaining member 200A and the housing should be formed with at least one lightly press-fit portion 210. The lightly press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the lightly press-fit portion 210 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0097] Reference Fig.19 and Fig.21 , each holding member 200A of the present embodiment is formed with two holes 230. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of the hole 230 may be one. The structure of the hole 230 of the present embodiment is the same as that of the hole 230 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0098] like Fig.21 As shown, in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510 of the set terminal 500 .

[0099] As described above, each retaining member 200A is lightly press-fitted into the housing, and in the front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the lightly press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510. Therefore, the connector of the present embodiment is configured so that the setting terminal 500 retained by the retaining member 200A contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the retaining member 200A into the housing. This enables the connector of the present embodiment to ensure more reliable contact between each setting terminal 500 and the intermediate plate 600 by its structure different from that of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1.

[0100] like Fig.19 As shown, when viewed from the outside of the structural body 650A in the up-down direction, a portion of the protrusion 524 of the set terminal 500 is not covered by the holding member 200A and is visible.

[0101] like Fig.19 As shown, the support portion 453 of the signal terminal 450 of the present embodiment is not held by the holding member 200A.

[0102] like Fig.21 As shown, the support portion 530 of the setting terminal 500 of the present embodiment is not held by the holding member 200A.

[0103] [Third embodiment]

[0104] Reference Fig.23 The connector (not shown) of the third embodiment of the present invention is Figure 1 The connector 100 of the first embodiment is shown as a modification. Fig.24 , the connector of this embodiment is mateable with a matching connector (not shown) including a matching contact (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. The connector of this embodiment includes two retaining members 200B, two terminal rows 300, an intermediate plate 600, a housing (not shown), a front insulator (not shown) and two grounding springs (not shown). The two retaining members 200B, the two terminal rows 300 and the intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650B. Except for the retaining members 200B and the structural body 650B, the connector of this embodiment has a structure similar to the connector 100 of the aforementioned first embodiment. Figure 23 to Figure 26 The components of the connector shown are the same as those of the first embodiment connector 100 and are indicated by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment connector 100. With respect to directions and orientations in this embodiment, the same expressions as those of the first embodiment will be used below.

[0105] Reference Fig.24 , each retaining member 200B of the present embodiment is made of resin. Each retaining member 200B corresponds to each terminal row 300 respectively. Each terminal row 300 is retained by a corresponding retaining member 200B. More specifically, each terminal row 300 is insert-molded in a corresponding retaining member 200B. The retaining members 200B are positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two retaining members 200B in the up-down direction. Each retaining member 200B is lightly press-fitted into the housing. Each retaining member 200B is formed with a plurality of lightly press-fit portions 210. More specifically, each retaining member 200B is formed with two lightly press-fit portions 210. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, one of the retaining member 200B and the housing should be formed with at least one lightly press-fit portion 210. The lightly press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the lightly press-fit portion 210 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0106] Reference Fig.23 , each holding member 200B of the present embodiment is formed with two holes 230B. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of the hole 230B may be one.

[0107] Reference Fig.23 and Fig.25As shown, each hole 230B of the present embodiment has a generally rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction. The hole 230B penetrates the retaining member 200B in the up-down direction. The hole 230B is adjacent to the light press-fit portion 210 in the spacing direction. Specifically, each hole 230B corresponds to each light press-fit portion 210, respectively, and each hole 230B is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 in the spacing direction. More specifically, in the spacing direction, each hole 230B is located outwardly beyond the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 and is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210. In other words, each light press-fit portion 210 is adjacent to the corresponding hole 230B in the spacing direction. More specifically, in the spacing direction, each light press-fit portion 210 is positioned to exceed the corresponding hole 230B inwardly and be adjacent to the corresponding hole 230.

[0108] like Fig.25 As shown, in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510 of the set terminal 500 .

[0109] As described above, each retaining member 200B is lightly press-fitted into the housing, and in the front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the lightly press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510. Therefore, the connector of the present embodiment is configured so that the setting terminal 500 retained by the retaining member 200B contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the retaining member 200B into the housing. This enables the connector of the present embodiment to ensure more reliable contact between each setting terminal 500 and the intermediate plate 600 by its structure different from that of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1.

[0110] like Fig.25 As shown, the protrusion 524 of the setting terminal 500 of this embodiment is at least partially covered by the retaining member 200B at any position of the protrusion 524 in the front-to-back direction. More specifically, the protrusion 524 is covered by the retaining member 200B except for the exposed portion 510. When the terminal row 300 is insert-molded into the corresponding retaining member 200B, the position of the contact portion 540 of the setting terminal 500 can be easily aligned with the contact portion 454 of the signal terminal 450 in the up-down direction (see Fig.26 ) position.

[0111] like Fig.25 As shown, a part of the support portion 530 of the setting terminal 500 of the present embodiment is held by the holding member 200B. More specifically, the rear end of the support portion 530 and its surrounding portion are held by the holding member 200B.

[0112] from Fig.25 and Fig.26It can be understood that the rear end of the support portion 530 and its surrounding portion are not exposed to the outside of the holding member 200B. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment, when the terminal row 300 is insert-molded in the corresponding holding member 200B, the connector of this embodiment can more easily match the position of the contact portion 540 of the setting terminal 500 with the position of the contact portion 454 of the signal terminal 450 in the up and down direction.

[0113] [Fourth embodiment]

[0114] Reference Fig. 27 The connector 100C of the fourth embodiment of the present invention is Figure 1 The connector 100 of the first embodiment is shown as a modification. Fig.30 The connector 100C of this embodiment can be matched with a matching connector (not shown) including matching contacts (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. Fig.29 and Fig.30 As shown, the connector 100 of the present embodiment includes two holding members 200C, two terminal blocks 300C, an intermediate plate 600, a housing 700, a front insulator 750, and two grounding springs 800. The two holding members 200C, the two terminal blocks 300C, and the intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650C. The connector 100C of the present embodiment has a structure similar to that of the connector 100 of the aforementioned first embodiment except for the holding members 200C, the terminal blocks 300C, and the structural body 650C. Figures 27 to 37 The components of the connector shown are the same as those of the first embodiment connector 100 and are indicated by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment connector 100. With respect to directions and orientations in this embodiment, the same expressions as those of the first embodiment will be used below.

[0115] Reference Fig.29 , each retaining member 200C of the present embodiment is made of resin. Each retaining member 200C corresponds to each terminal row 300C, respectively. The retaining members 200C are positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two retaining members 200C in the up-down direction. Each retaining member 200C is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700. Each retaining member 200C is formed with a plurality of lightly press-fit portions 210. More specifically, each retaining member 200C is formed with two lightly press-fit portions 210. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, one of the retaining member 200C and the housing 700 should be formed with at least one lightly press-fit portion 210. The lightly press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the lightly press-fit portion 210 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0116] Reference Fig.31 and Fig.32, each holding member 200C of the present embodiment is formed with two holes 230C. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of the hole 230C may be one.

[0117] Reference Fig.29 and Fig.32 , each hole 230C of the present embodiment has a generally rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction. Each hole 230C penetrates the retaining member 200C in the up-down direction. The hole 230C is adjacent to the light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. Specifically, each hole 230C corresponds to each light press-fit portion 210, respectively, and each hole 230C is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each hole 230C is positioned inwardly beyond the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 and adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210. In other words, each light press-fit portion 210 is adjacent to the corresponding hole 230C in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each light press-fit portion 210 is located outwardly beyond the corresponding hole 230C and adjacent to the corresponding hole 230.

[0118] like Fig.29 As shown, the two terminal rows 300C of the present embodiment are positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two terminal rows 300C in the up-down direction. Each terminal row 300C is held by a corresponding retaining member 200C. More specifically, each terminal row 300C is embedded in the corresponding retaining member 200C. Each terminal row 300C has a plurality of terminals 400C.

[0119] Reference Fig.33 , each terminal 400C of the present embodiment is made of metal. In each terminal row 300C, each terminal 400C is arranged along the pitch direction. Each terminal 400C of each terminal row 300C includes a plurality of signal terminals 450 and two setting terminals 500C. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, each terminal 400C of each terminal row 300C should include at least one setting terminal 500C. The signal terminal 450 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the signal terminal 450 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0120] like Fig.33 As shown, each setting terminal 500C of the present embodiment has an exposed portion 510C.

[0121] like Fig.33As shown, the exposed portion 510C of the present embodiment has a plate-like shape intersecting the up-down direction. More specifically, the exposed portion 510C is perpendicular to the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510C is exposed from the retaining member 200C in the up-down direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the exposed portion 510C should be at least partially exposed from the retaining member 200C in the up-down direction perpendicular to the pitch direction. Fig.29 , Fig.31 and Fig.32 It can be understood that the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510C in the front-rear direction which is perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the pitch direction.

[0122] As described above, each holding member 200C is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700, and the position of the lightly press-fit portion 210 overlaps the position of the exposed portion 510C in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction. Therefore, the connector 100C of the present embodiment is configured so that the setting terminal 500C held by the holding member 200C contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the holding member 200C into the housing 700. This enables the connector 100C of the present embodiment to ensure more reliable contact between each setting terminal 500C and the intermediate plate 600 by its structure different from that of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1.

[0123] like Fig.36 As shown, the setting terminal 500C of this embodiment has a held portion 520C, a supporting portion 530 and a contact portion 540. The supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of this embodiment have the same structure as the supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0124] like Fig.36 As shown in FIG. 5 , the held portion 520C of the present embodiment is located behind the support portion 530 in the front-rear direction. Fig.31 As shown, the held portion 520C is at least partially held by the holding member 200C. The exposed portion 510C is formed on the held portion 520C. The held portion 520C has an embedded portion 522 and a bent portion 505.

[0125] like Fig.36 As shown, the embedded portion 522 of this embodiment is located behind the curved portion 505 in the front-to-back direction. The embedded portion 522 is located behind the exposed portion 510C in the front-to-back direction. The embedded portion 522 is located outwardly beyond the exposed portion 510C in the up-down direction. Fig.31 As shown, the embedded portion 522 is embedded in the holding member 200C.

[0126] Reference Fig.34 and Fig.37 The bent portion 505 extends outward from the embedded portion 522 along the pitch direction, bends in the pitch direction to protrude outward, and then extends inward in the pitch direction. Fig.35 As shown, the bent portion 505 has a transverse U-shaped cross section in a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction. The exposed portion 510C is provided on the bent portion 505. The exposed portion 510C defines the inner end of the bent portion 505 in the up-down direction.

[0127] [Fifth embodiment]

[0128] Reference Fig.38 The connector 100D of the fifth embodiment of the present invention is Figure 1 The connector 100 of the first embodiment is shown as a modification. Fig.40 The connector 100D of this embodiment can be matched with a matching connector (not shown) including matching contacts (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. Fig.39 and Fig.40 As shown, the connector 100D of the present embodiment includes two holding members 200, two terminal blocks 300D, an intermediate plate 600, a housing 700, a front insulator 750, and two grounding springs 800. The two holding members 200, the two terminal blocks 300D, and the intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650D. The connector 100D of the present embodiment has a structure similar to that of the connector 100 of the aforementioned first embodiment except for the terminal blocks 300D and the structural body 650D. Figures 38 to 46 The components of the connector shown are the same as those of the first embodiment connector 100 and are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment connector 100. With respect to directions and orientations in this embodiment, the same expressions as those of the first embodiment will be used below.

[0129] like Fig.39 As shown, the two terminal rows 300D of the present embodiment are positioned separately from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two terminal rows 300D in the up-down direction. Each retaining member 200 corresponds to each terminal row 300D respectively. Each terminal row 300D is held by a corresponding retaining member 200. More specifically, each terminal row 300D is insert-molded in a corresponding retaining member 200. Each terminal row 300D has a plurality of terminals 400D.

[0130] Reference Fig.46, each terminal 400D of the present embodiment is made of metal. In each terminal row 300D, each terminal 400D is arranged along the pitch direction. Each terminal 400D of each terminal row 300D includes a plurality of signal terminals 450 and two setting terminals 500D. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, each terminal 400D of each terminal row 300D should include at least one setting terminal 500D. The signal terminal 450 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the signal terminal 450 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0131] like Fig.43 As shown, each setting terminal 500D of the present embodiment has an exposed portion 510D.

[0132] like Fig.43 As shown, the exposed portion 510D of the present embodiment has a plate-like shape intersecting the up-down direction. More specifically, the exposed portion 510D is perpendicular to the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510D is exposed from the retaining member 200 in the up-down direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the exposed portion 510D should be at least partially exposed from the retaining member 200 in the up-down direction perpendicular to the pitch direction. Fig.39 , Fig.41 and Fig.42 It can be understood that the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510D in the front-rear direction which is perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the pitch direction.

[0133] like Fig.43 As shown, the exposed portion 510D is provided with a protrusion 512. Fig.41 As shown, the protrusion 512 protrudes inward in the up-down direction. The protrusion 512 is pressed against the middle plate 600. Fig.39 , Fig.41 and Fig.42 It can be understood that the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the protruding portion 512 in the front-to-rear direction which is perpendicular to both the up-down direction and the pitch direction.

[0134] As described above, each holding member 200 is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700, and in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the lightly press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the protrusion 512. Therefore, the connector 100D of the present embodiment is configured so that the setting terminal 500D held by the holding member 200 contacts the intermediate plate 600 by the contact pressure obtained by lightly press-fitting the holding member 200 into the housing 700. This enables the connector 100D of the present embodiment to ensure more reliable contact between each setting terminal 500D and the intermediate plate 600 by its structure different from that of the connector 900 of Patent Document 1.

[0135] like Fig.46 As shown, the setting terminal 500D of this embodiment has a held portion 520D, a supporting portion 530 and a contact portion 540. The supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of this embodiment have the same structure as the supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0136] like Fig.45 As shown, the retained portion 520D of the present embodiment is located behind the supporting portion 530 in the front-to-back direction. The retained portion 520D is at least partially retained by the retaining member 200. The exposed portion 510D is formed on the retained portion 520D. The retained portion 520D has an embedded portion 522 and a protruding portion 524D. The exposed portion 510D is located between the contact portion 540 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The exposed portion 510D is located between the supporting portion 530 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The embedded portion 522 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the embedded portion 522 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0137] like Fig.41 As shown, the protrusion 524D of the present embodiment is located in front of the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The protrusion 524D protrudes toward the middle plate 600 beyond either the embedded portion 522 or the support portion 530. The protrusion 524D is located between the contact portion 540 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The protrusion 524D is located between the support portion 530 and the embedded portion 522 in the front-to-back direction. The support portion 530 extends forward from the protrusion 524D in the front-to-back direction. The exposed portion 510D is provided on the protrusion 524D.

[0138] [Sixth embodiment]

[0139] Reference Fig.47 The connector 100E of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is Figure 1 The connector 100 of the first embodiment is shown as a modification. Fig.48 The connector 100E of this embodiment can be matched with a matching connector (not shown) including matching contacts (not shown) in the front-to-back direction. Fig.48 and Fig.49 As shown, the connector 100E of the present embodiment includes two holding members 200E, two terminal rows 300E, an intermediate plate 600, a housing 700, a front insulator 750, and two grounding springs 800. The two holding members 200E, the two terminal rows 300E, and the intermediate plate 600 form a structural body 650E. The connector 100E of the present embodiment has a structure similar to that of the connector 100 of the aforementioned first embodiment except for the holding members 200E, the terminal rows 300E, and the structural body 650E. Figures 47 to 52The components of the connector 100E shown are the same as those of the connector 100 of the first embodiment and are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the connector 100 of the first embodiment. With respect to directions and orientations in this embodiment, the same expressions as those of the first embodiment will be used below.

[0140] Reference Fig.50 In this embodiment, each holding member 200E is made of resin. Each holding member 200E corresponds to each terminal row 300E. Each terminal row 300E is held by a corresponding holding member 200E. More specifically, each terminal row 300E is insert-molded in a corresponding holding member 200E. Fig.49 As shown, the holding members 200E are positioned apart from each other in the up-down direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is interposed between the two holding members 200E in the up-down direction. Each holding member 200E is lightly press-fitted into the housing 700. Fig.50 As shown, each retaining member 200E is formed with a plurality of light press-fit portions 210. More specifically, each retaining member 200E is formed with two light press-fit portions 210. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, one of the retaining member 200E and the housing 700 should be formed with at least one light press-fit portion 210. The light press-fit portion 210 of this embodiment has the same structure as the light press-fit portion 210 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0141] Reference Fig.50 , each holding member 200E is formed with two holes 230E. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the number of the hole 230E may be one.

[0142] Reference Fig.49 and Fig.50 , each hole 230E of the present embodiment has a generally rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction. The hole 230E is adjacent to the light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. Specifically, each hole 230E corresponds to each light press-fit portion 210, respectively, and each hole 230E is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each hole 230E is positioned to exceed the corresponding light press-fit portion 210 outwardly and is adjacent to the corresponding light press-fit portion 210. In other words, each light press-fit portion 210 is adjacent to the corresponding hole 230E in the pitch direction. More specifically, in the pitch direction, each light press-fit portion 210 is positioned to exceed the corresponding hole 230E inwardly and is adjacent to the corresponding hole 230E.

[0143] like Fig.48 As shown, the terminal rows 300E of this embodiment are positioned apart from each other in the vertical direction, and the intermediate plate 600 is placed between the two terminal rows 300E in the vertical direction. Fig.50As shown, each terminal row 300E is held by a corresponding holding member 200E. More specifically, each terminal row 300E is insert-molded in a corresponding holding member 200E. Each terminal row 300E has a plurality of terminals 400E.

[0144] Reference Fig.50 , each terminal 400E of the present embodiment is made of metal. In each terminal row 300E, each terminal 400E is arranged along the spacing direction. Each terminal 400E of each terminal row 300E includes a plurality of signal terminals 450 and two setting terminals 500E. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, each terminal 400E of each terminal row 300E should include at least one setting terminal 500E. The signal terminal 450 of the present embodiment has the same structure as the signal terminal 450 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0145] like Fig.50 As shown, each setting terminal 500E of the present embodiment has an exposed portion 510E.

[0146] like Fig.50 As shown, the exposed portion 510E of the present embodiment has a plate-like shape intersecting the up-down direction. More specifically, the exposed portion 510E is perpendicular to the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510E is exposed from the retaining member 200E in the up-down direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the exposed portion 510E should be at least partially exposed from the retaining member 200E in the up-down direction perpendicular to the spacing direction. Fig.52 As shown, in the front-to-back direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, the position of the light press-fit portion 210 overlaps with the position of the exposed portion 510E. The hole 230E reaches the exposed portion 510E in the up-down direction. Fig.49 As shown, the exposed portion 510E is located between the hole 230E and the middle plate 600 in the up-down direction. The exposed portion 510E is welded to the middle plate 600.

[0147] As described above, the connector 100E of the present embodiment is configured so that the hole 230E of the holding member 200E reaches the exposed portion 510E in the up-down direction. When the exposed portion 510E of the setting terminal 500E is laser welded to the intermediate plate 600, this configuration of the present embodiment facilitates the transfer of laser radiation to the exposed portion 510E through the hole 230E. Instead of laser welding, resistance welding may be used to weld the exposed portion 510E to the intermediate plate 600. In this case, by inserting the electrode into the hole 230E of the holding member 200E from the outside in the up-down direction, the electrode can be brought into contact with the exposed portion 510E. Therefore, in this case, the aforementioned configuration of the present embodiment facilitates welding of the exposed portion 510E of the setting terminal 500E located above the intermediate plate 600, the intermediate plate 600, and the overlapping portion of the exposed portion 510E of the setting terminal 500E located below the intermediate plate 600.

[0148] like Fig.52 As shown, the setting terminal 500E of the present embodiment has a held portion 520E, a supporting portion 530 and a contact portion 540. The supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of the present embodiment have the same structure as the supporting portion 530 and the contact portion 540 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted. Except that the held portion 520E is formed with an exposed portion 510E, the held portion 520E of the present embodiment has a structure similar to the held portion 520 of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0149] Although the present invention has been specifically described above with reference to the embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and substitutions are possible.

[0150] Although the light press-fit portion 210 of the above-mentioned embodiment is arranged on the retaining member 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E, and is a protruding rib that protrudes outward in the up-down direction and extends in the front-back direction, the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the light press-fit portion 210 can be a protrusion that protrudes outward from the retaining member 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E in the up-down direction. Alternatively, the light press-fit portion 210 can be a protruding rib or protrusion that protrudes inward from the housing 700 in the up-down direction. However, the light press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment is more preferred because the light press-fit portion 210 of the present embodiment facilitates the terminal row 300, 300C, 300D, 300E retained by the retaining member 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E to maintain a horizontal posture relative to the housing 700.

[0151] Although in the connectors 100, 100C, 100D, 100E of the aforementioned embodiments, the retaining members 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E are provided with two light press-fit portions 210, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, the retaining members 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E may be provided with a single light press-fit portion 210. In other words, the connectors 100, 100C, 100D, 100E of the aforementioned embodiments may have two light press-fit portions 210, each of which is provided on the retaining members 200, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200E.

[0152] Although the connectors 100, 100C, 100D, 100E of the above embodiments include the front insulator 750 and the grounding spring 800, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the connectors 100, 100C, 100D, 100E may not include the front insulator 750. In addition, the connectors 100, 100C, 100D, 100E may not include the grounding spring 800.

[0153] The above are preferred embodiments of the present invention and the technical principles used therein. For those skilled in the art, any obvious changes such as equivalent transformations, simple replacements, etc. based on the technical solution of the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A connector, comprising two retaining members, two terminal blocks, an intermediate plate and a housing, characterized in that: Each of the retaining members corresponds to each of the terminal rows; Each of the retaining members is lightly press-fitted into the housing; Each of the terminal rows is held by the corresponding holding member; Each of the terminal rows has a plurality of terminals; In each of the terminal rows, the terminals are arranged along a pitch direction; The terminals of each terminal row include a setting terminal; The setting terminal has an exposed portion; The exposed portion is at least partially exposed from the holding member in an up-and-down direction perpendicular to the pitch direction; The intermediate plate is clamped by the two holding members in the up-down direction; The intermediate plate has a receiving portion; The exposed portion is in contact with the receiving portion; One of the retaining member and the housing is formed with at least one light press fit portion; as well as In a front-rear direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the pitch direction, a position of at least one of the light press-fit portions overlaps a position of the exposed portion.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The setting terminal comprises a held portion, a supporting portion and a contact portion; The held portion is at least partially held by the holding member; The exposed portion is formed on the held portion; The supporting portion is elastically deformable and extends forward from the held portion in the front-rear direction; as well as The contact portion is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in the up-down direction.

3. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least one of the light press-fit portions comprises two of the light press-fit portions; The light press-fit portions are formed on the retaining members respectively; and Each of the light press-fit portions is a protruding rib that protrudes outward in the up-down direction and extends in the front-rear direction.

4. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: The held portion has an embedded portion and a protruding portion; The embedded portion is embedded in the retaining member; The protruding portion is located in front of the embedded portion in the front-to-back direction; The protrusion protrudes toward the middle plate beyond any one of the embedded portion and the supporting portion; The support portion extends forward from the protruding portion in the front-rear direction; as well as The exposed portion is provided on the protruding portion.

5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein: The protrusion is at least partially covered by the holding member at any position of the protrusion in the front-rear direction.

6. The connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: The protruding portion is covered by the holding member except for the exposed portion.

7. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The retaining member is provided with a hole; the hole reaches the exposed portion in the up-down direction; and The light press-fit portion is adjacent to the hole in the pitch direction.

8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The exposed portion is pressed against the receiving portion.

9. The connector according to claim 8, wherein: The exposed portion is provided with a protrusion; and The protrusion is pressed against the intermediate plate.

10. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The retaining member is provided with a hole; The hole reaches the exposed portion in the up-down direction; The exposed portion is located between the hole and the middle plate in the up-down direction and is welded to the middle plate.

11. The connector according to claim 10, wherein: The light press-fit portion is adjacent to the hole in the pitch direction.

12. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The connector also includes a front insulator and two ground springs; The front insulator is generally tubular in shape; The front insulator is located in front of any one of the retaining members in the front-rear direction; The front insulator is held by the housing; The setting terminal has a supporting portion and a contact portion; The support portion is elastically deformable; The contact portion is supported by the support portion so as to be movable in the up-down direction; The support portion and the contact portion are both located in the front insulator; as well as Each of the ground springs is partially sandwiched between the housing and the front insulator and is held by the housing and the front insulator.

Images