First connector, second connector and connector assembly

Abstract

Provided are a first connector, a second connector, and a connector assembly capable of suppressing wear of contacts. The first connector (20) detachable with the second connector (70) has a plurality of first terminal members (21) whose tip end portions extend in a first direction (X1), and a first connector housing (30) that holds the plurality of first terminal members (21). The first connector housing (30) has a side wall (43) whose tip end portion extends in the first direction (X1). The side wall (43) has a first fitting portion (50) that is engaged with a second fitting portion (100) provided to the second connector (70). The first fitting portion (50) is engaged with the second fitting portion (100) in a second direction (Y1) that intersects with an assembling direction (D1) of the first connector (20) and the second connector (70).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a first connector, a second connector, and a connector assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, wiring harnesses used in vehicles such as hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles have been known to have wires and connectors attached to the ends of the wires. The connector has a metal terminal that connects to the end of the wire and a connector housing that holds the terminal (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-080269 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, when vibration is applied to the aforementioned connector, it is possible for the connector housing to move relative to the other connector, and for the terminals held in the connector housing to move relative to the other terminals. When the terminals move relative to the other terminals, there is a problem of wear on the contacts of both terminals.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a first connector, a second connector, and a connector assembly capable of suppressing wear on contacts.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The first connector disclosed herein is detachable from a second connector. The first connector has: a plurality of first terminal members extending at their top ends toward a first direction; and a first connector housing holding the plurality of the first terminal members. The first connector housing has a first wall extending at its top ends toward the first direction. The first wall has a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion disposed on the second connector. The first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0011] The second connector disclosed herein is detachable from the first connector. The second connector has: a plurality of second terminal members; an inner housing for housing the plurality of second terminal members; and an outer housing for housing the inner housing. The inner housing and the outer housing are separate components. The inner housing has a second engaging portion that engages with a first engaging portion disposed on the first connector. The second engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0012] The connector assembly disclosed herein has a first connector and a second connector detachable relative to the first connector. The first connector has: a plurality of first terminal members extending at their top ends toward a first direction; and a first connector housing holding the plurality of first terminal members. The first connector housing has a first wall extending at its top ends toward the first direction. The first wall has a first engaging portion that engages with a second engaging portion disposed on the second connector. The first engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion in a second direction intersecting the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] The first connector, the second connector, and the connector assembly disclosed herein have the effect of suppressing wear on the contacts. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing a connector assembly according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view illustrating a connector assembly according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view showing a first connector according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic top view showing an enlarged portion of the first connector of one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of the first connector of one embodiment. Figure 4 (Sectional view along line 5-5).

[0020] Figure 6 This is a partially sectional exploded perspective view showing a connector assembly according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the first connector according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the first connector according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 2 (Sectional view along line 9-9 in the diagram).

[0024] Figure 10This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the second connector of one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of the second connector according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the second connector according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged portion of the second connector according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the second connector of one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing a portion of the second connector of one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0031] First, the implementation methods of this disclosure are listed and explained.

[0032] [1] The first connector of this disclosure is detachable from the second connector. The first connector has: a plurality of first terminal members extending at their top ends toward a first direction; and a first connector housing holding the plurality of the first terminal members. The first connector housing has a first wall extending at its top ends toward the first direction. The first wall has a first engagement portion that engages with a second engagement portion disposed on the second connector. The first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion in a second direction that intersects with the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0033] According to this structure, a first mating portion is provided in the first connector housing, which engages with a second mating portion of the second connector located on the opposite side, and engages with the second mating portion in a second direction intersecting the assembly directions of the first and second connectors. By engaging the first and second mating portions, movement of the first connector housing in the second direction is restricted. Therefore, even when vibration is applied to the first connector assembled with the second connector, relative movement of the first connector housing relative to the second connector in the second direction can be suppressed. Consequently, relative movement of the first terminal member held in the first connector housing relative to the second terminal member provided in the second connector can be suppressed. As a result, contact wear of the first and second terminal members can be appropriately suppressed.

[0034] [2] Preferably, the first fitting portion has a first protrusion that extends from the first wall along a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction and protrudes toward the first terminal member. The first terminal member has a first surface that is opposite to the first protrusion in the third direction. The shortest distance L1 between the top of the first protrusion in the third direction and the first surface of the first terminal member is the first distance.

[0035] According to this structure, the shortest distance L1 between the tip of the first protrusion projecting from the first wall in the third direction and the first surface of the first terminal member is set as the first distance. Here, the first distance is a distance in the range of 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less. The first distance is preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 12 mm or less, and more preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 9 mm or less. By setting the shortest distance L1 as the first distance, it is possible to prevent the operator's finger from entering the gap between the tip of the first protrusion and the first surface of the first terminal member. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operator's finger from contacting the first terminal member through the gap between the tip of the first protrusion and the first surface of the first terminal member.

[0036] In this specification, "opposite" refers to a position where surfaces or components are facing each other, including not only positions where they are completely facing each other, but also positions where they are partially facing each other. Furthermore, "opposite" in this specification includes situations where there are other components, independent of the two parts, separated by a gap between them, and situations where there is nothing between the two parts.

[0037] [3] Preferably, the first surface of the first terminal member is a connecting surface that connects to the second terminal member disposed on the second connector. According to this structure, it is possible to prevent an operator's finger from entering the gap between the top of the first protrusion and the connecting surface of the first terminal member. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an operator's finger from contacting the connecting surface of the first terminal member through the gap between the top of the first protrusion and the connecting surface of the first terminal member.

[0038] [4] Preferably, the first terminal member has a second surface disposed in the third direction on the side opposite to the first surface, the first connector housing has a second wall extending from the top end toward the first direction, the second wall is disposed in the third direction on the side opposite to the first wall across the first terminal member, the second wall has a third surface in the third direction facing the second surface of the first terminal member, and the shortest distance L2 and the shortest distance L1 between the third surface of the second wall and the second surface of the first terminal member in the third direction satisfy the following formula: L2≦L1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operator's fingers from entering the gap between the third surface of the second wall and the second surface of the first terminal member. Thus, it is possible to prevent the operator's fingers from contacting the first terminal member through the gap between the third surface of the second wall and the second surface of the first terminal member.

[0039] [5] Preferably, a plurality of the first terminal members are arranged along the third direction, and a first wall is disposed between the plurality of the first terminal members in the third direction. According to this structure, a first fitting portion is provided in the first wall disposed between the plurality of first terminal members. Therefore, the first fitting portion can be disposed near the plurality of first terminal members. Therefore, relative movement of the first terminal members disposed near the first fitting portion can be appropriately suppressed.

[0040] [6] Preferably, the assembly direction is a direction extending parallel to the first direction, and the first connector housing has: a protective portion that covers the portion of the first terminal member surrounding a direction orthogonal to the first direction, excluding the second direction; a first opening that opens in the protective portion in the first direction; and a second opening that opens in the protective portion in the second direction. According to this structure, the second opening opens in a second direction in which the first and second mating portions engage. In other words, in the second direction in which the second opening opens, the first and second mating portions engage with each other. Here, with a second opening that opens in a second direction intersecting the assembly directions of the first and second connectors, and with the second connector assembled to the first connector, the first connector housing can easily move relative to the second connector in the second direction in which the second opening opens. In contrast, in the above structure, the first fitting part is provided in such a way that it engages with the second fitting part in the second direction, so that the relative movement of the first connector housing relative to the second connector in the second direction can be appropriately suppressed.

[0041] [7] Preferably, the protective portion has a pair of sidewalls constituting the second opening, the first wall being one of the pair of sidewalls, and the first protrusion protruding from the inner surface of one of the sidewalls toward the first terminal member. According to this structure, a first fitting portion is provided on the inner surface of the sidewall constituting the protective portion surrounding the outer periphery of the first terminal member. Therefore, the first fitting portion can be provided near the first terminal member. Therefore, relative movement of the first terminal member provided near the first fitting portion can be appropriately suppressed.

[0042] [8] Preferably, the plurality of first terminal members have two adjacent first terminal members in the third direction, and the protective portion has: a first protective portion for protecting one of the two first terminal members; and a second protective portion for protecting the other of the two first terminal members. The first fitting portion has a first protrusion provided in the first protective portion and a second protrusion provided in the second protective portion. The first protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall of the first protective portion located between the two first terminal members in the third direction toward one of the first terminal members, and the second protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall of the second protective portion located between the two first terminal members in the third direction toward the other first terminal member. According to this structure, a first protective portion and a second protective portion are provided to protect the two first terminal members individually. In addition, the first fitting portion has a first protrusion provided in the first protective portion and a second protrusion provided in the second protective portion. In other words, a first fitting portion is provided on both the first protective portion and the second protective portion. Therefore, the first fitting portion can be provided near each of the two first terminal members. Therefore, the relative movement of the two first terminal members can be appropriately suppressed.

[0043] [9] Preferably, the first mating portion has the first protrusion and a first recess recessed from the protruding top surface of the first protrusion. The first protrusion has a first inclined surface inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. When the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the first inclined surface guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion toward the interior of the first recess. According to this structure, the first protrusion has a first inclined surface that guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion of the second connector toward the interior of the first recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. Therefore, when the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the first mating portion and the second mating portion can easily engage. Thus, the second connector can be easily assembled to the first connector.

[0044]

[10] Preferably, the first recess has a second inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction, and the second inclined surface guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion toward the interior of the first recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. According to this structure, the first recess has a second inclined surface that guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion of the second connector toward the interior of the first recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. Therefore, when the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the first mating portion and the second mating portion can easily engage. Thus, the second connector can be easily assembled to the first connector.

[0045]

[11] Preferably, the first connector housing has: a base for holding the base end of the first terminal member; a first wall protruding from the base toward the first direction; and a reinforcing portion connecting the base end of the first wall to the base. According to this structure, the base of the first connector housing and the base end of the first wall are connected by the reinforcing portion. Therefore, compared to a structure without the reinforcing portion, it is possible to suppress the shaking of the first wall when vibration is applied to the first connector. Thus, relative movement of the first connector housing can be suppressed, and consequently, relative movement of the first terminal member can be suppressed.

[0046]

[12] The second connector of this disclosure is detachable from the first connector. The second connector has: a plurality of second terminal members; an inner housing for housing the plurality of second terminal members; and an outer housing for housing the inner housing. The inner housing and the outer housing are separate components. The inner housing has a second mating portion that engages with a first mating portion disposed on the first connector. The second mating portion engages with the first mating portion in a second direction that intersects with the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0047] According to this structure, a second engaging portion is provided in the inner housing, which engages with a first engaging portion of the first connector located on the opposite side, and engages with the first engaging portion in a second direction intersecting the assembly directions of the first and second connectors. By engaging the second engaging portion with the first engaging portion, movement of the inner housing in the second direction is restricted. Therefore, even when vibration is applied to the second connector assembled with the first connector, relative movement of the inner housing relative to the first connector in the second direction can be suppressed. Consequently, relative movement of the second terminal member housed in the inner housing relative to the first terminal member provided in the first connector can be suppressed. As a result, contact wear of the first and second terminal members can be appropriately suppressed.

[0048]

[13] Preferably, the inner housing has a base and a terminal receiving portion extending from the base, the terminal receiving portion housing the second terminal member internally, and the second fitting portion being provided on the outer surface of the terminal receiving portion. According to this structure, the second fitting portion is provided on the outer surface of the terminal receiving portion housing the second terminal member internally. Therefore, the second fitting portion can be provided near the second terminal member. Therefore, relative movement of the second terminal member provided near the second fitting portion can be appropriately suppressed.

[0049]

[14] Preferably, a plurality of the second terminal members are arranged along a third direction intersecting the second direction. The terminal receiving portion has a first terminal receiving portion and a second terminal receiving portion disposed above the ground in the third direction, the first terminal receiving portion having a first opposing surface opposite to the second terminal receiving portion in the third direction, the second terminal receiving portion having a second opposing surface opposite to the first opposing surface, and the second fitting portion having a third protrusion protruding from the first opposing surface toward the second opposing surface and a fourth protrusion protruding from the second opposing surface toward the first opposing surface. According to this structure, the second fitting portion has a third protrusion disposed on the first opposing surface of the first terminal receiving portion and a fourth protrusion disposed on the second opposing surface of the second terminal receiving portion. In other words, a second fitting portion is provided on both the first terminal receiving portion and the second terminal receiving portion. Therefore, a second mating portion can be provided near the second terminal member housed in the first terminal housing and near the second terminal member housed in the second terminal housing. Thus, relative movement of the second terminal member housed near the second mating portion can be appropriately suppressed. Furthermore, the third and fourth protrusions are provided in a manner that faces each other in the third direction. Therefore, when the second connector is assembled with the first connector, the first mating portion of the first connector is provided between the third and fourth protrusions in the third direction. Therefore, the third and fourth protrusions of the second mating portion engage with the first mating portion from both sides in the third direction. As a result, relative movement of the inner housing relative to the first connector can be more appropriately suppressed, and relative movement of the second terminal member can be more appropriately suppressed.

[0050]

[15] Preferably, the second mating portion has the third protrusion and a second recess recessed from the protruding top surface of the third protrusion toward the first opposing surface. The third protrusion has a third inclined surface inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. When the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the third inclined surface guides the first protrusion of the first mating portion toward the interior of the second recess. According to this structure, the third protrusion has a third inclined surface that guides the first protrusion of the first mating portion of the first connector toward the interior of the second recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. Therefore, when the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the first mating portion and the second mating portion can easily engage. Thus, the second connector can be easily assembled to the first connector.

[0051]

[16] Preferably, the second recess has a fourth inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction, the fourth inclined surface guiding the first protrusion of the first mating portion toward the interior of the second recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. According to this structure, the first recess has a fourth inclined surface that guides the first protrusion of the first mating portion of the first connector toward the interior of the second recess when the second connector is assembled to the first connector. Therefore, when the second connector is assembled to the first connector, the first mating portion and the second mating portion can easily engage in a concave-convex fit. Thus, the second connector can be easily assembled to the first connector.

[0052]

[17] Preferably, it also includes an inner member assembled to the outer casing, the inner member supporting the inner casing inside the outer casing. According to this structure, the inner casing is supported inside the outer casing by the inner member. Therefore, when vibration is applied to the second connector, the shaking of the inner casing inside the outer casing can be suppressed compared to a structure without the inner member. Thus, relative movement of the inner casing can be suppressed, and consequently, relative movement of the second terminal member can be suppressed.

[0053]

[18] Preferably, the first terminal receiving portion and the second terminal receiving portion are formed as one unit through the base, and the inner component contacts the base to support the inner housing.

[0054] According to this structure, the first terminal storage section and the second terminal storage section are formed as a single unit via the base. Therefore, compared to the case where the first terminal storage section and the second terminal storage section are composed of separate parts, the number of parts can be reduced. In addition, both the first terminal storage section and the second terminal storage section can be supported by the inner member contacting the base. Therefore, compared to the case where the structure for supporting the first terminal storage section and the second terminal storage section is provided separately, the structure of the inner member can be simplified.

[0055]

[19] The connector assembly of this disclosure has a first connector and a second connector that is detachable relative to the first connector. The first connector has: a plurality of first terminal members extending at their top ends toward a first direction; and a first connector housing holding the plurality of the first terminal members. The first connector housing has a first wall extending at its top ends toward the first direction. The first wall has a first engagement portion that engages with a second engagement portion disposed on the second connector. The first engagement portion engages with the second engagement portion in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector.

[0056] According to this structure, a first engaging portion is provided in the first connector housing, which engages with a second engaging portion provided in the second connector, and engages with the second engaging portion in a second direction intersecting the assembly directions of the first and second connectors. By engaging the first and second engaging portions, movement of the first connector housing in the second direction can be restricted. Therefore, even when vibration is applied to the first connector assembled with the second connector, relative movement of the first connector housing relative to the second connector in the second direction can be suppressed. Consequently, relative movement of the first terminal member held in the first connector housing relative to the second terminal member provided in the second connector can be suppressed. As a result, contact wear of the first and second terminal members can be appropriately suppressed.

[0057] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure]

[0058] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 Specific examples of the first connector, second connector, and connector assembly of this disclosure are described below. In the accompanying drawings, for ease of description, sometimes enlarged or simplified portions of the structure are shown. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios of the various parts sometimes differ in the various drawings. The terms "parallel" and "orthogonal" in this specification include not only cases where they are strictly parallel or orthogonal, but also cases where they are substantially parallel or orthogonal to the extent that they achieve the desired effect in this embodiment. Moreover, the invention is not limited to these examples, but as indicated by the claims, it is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0059] (Overall structure of connector assembly 11)

[0060] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, connector assembly 10 has a first connector 20 and a second connector 70 that can be assembled to the first connector 20. Connector assembly 10 is provided in a vehicle. For example, the vehicle has multiple on-board devices such as a high-voltage battery and an inverter. The multiple on-board devices are connected to each other via wiring harnesses. And, connector assembly 10 is provided, for example, at the ends of the on-board devices and the wiring harnesses. The first connector 20 and the second connector 70 are assembled to each other along the assembly direction D1. In addition, the assembly direction D1 shows the relative assembly direction of the second connector 70 with respect to the first connector 20, and does not mean that the first connector 20 is limited to a fixed side. In addition, the up and down directions in the figures do not necessarily indicate the posture of the first connector 20 and the second connector 70 during use.

[0061] (Structure of the first connector 20)

[0062] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first connector 20 has one or more (two in this embodiment) first terminal members 21, a first connector housing 30 for holding the first terminal members 21, and one or more (two in this embodiment) sliding members 60. The sliding members 60 are held in the first connector housing 30.

[0063] (Structure of the first terminal component 21)

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown, each first terminal member 21 has a metal first terminal 22 and a protective member 25. The first terminal 22 has a base 23 and a connecting portion 24 extending from the base 23 along a first direction X1. The top end of the connecting portion 24, which is also the top end of the first terminal 22, extends from the base 23 toward the first direction X1. In this embodiment, the direction in which the top end of the first terminal 22 extends is defined as the first direction X1, and the opposite direction of the first direction X1 is defined as the first opposite direction X2. In addition, the first direction X1 and the first opposite direction X2 in this embodiment are directions parallel to the assembly direction D1. The first terminal 22 is, for example, a single component in which the base 23 and the connecting portion 24 are continuously formed. The first terminal 22 is, for example, formed by stamping a metal sheet made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0065] like Figure 3As shown, the connecting portion 24 is formed in the shape of a flat plate. The axial direction of the connecting portion 24 extends along a first direction X1. The width direction of the connecting portion 24 extends along a second direction Y1 orthogonal to the first direction X1. The thickness direction of the connecting portion 24 extends along a third direction Z1 orthogonal to both the first direction X1 and the second direction Y1. One end face of the connecting portion 24 in the width direction faces the second direction Y1, and the other end face of the connecting portion 24 in the width direction faces a second opposite direction Y2, which is the opposite direction to the second direction Y1. One end face of the connecting portion 24 in the thickness direction faces the third direction Z1, and the other end face of the connecting portion 24 in the thickness direction faces a third opposite direction Z2, which is the opposite direction to the third direction Z1. One of the two end faces in the thickness direction of the connecting portion 24 is connected to the second terminal member 71 of the second connector 70 (see...). Figure 1 The connecting surface 24A is connected to the second terminal member 71, and the other end face of the connecting portion 24 in the thickness direction is a non-connecting surface 24B that is not connected to the second terminal member 71. The connecting surface 24A is formed as a plane extending parallel to the first direction X1. The non-connecting surface 24B is formed as a plane extending parallel to the first direction X1. Furthermore, in... Figure 3 In the illustration, the protective member 25 in one of the two first terminal members 21 is omitted.

[0066] like Figure 5 As shown, the two first terminals 22 are arranged along the third direction Z1. The two first terminals 22 are configured, for example, in the third direction Z1, with two connecting surfaces 24A facing each other.

[0067] The protective member 25 is fitted to the top end of the connecting portion 24. The protective member 25 is formed to cover the top end of the connecting portion 24. The protective member 25 is made of, for example, an insulating resin material.

[0068] (Structure of the first connector housing 30)

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, the first connector housing 30 includes, for example, a base 31, a peripheral wall portion 32 extending from the base 31 in a first direction X1, and a protective portion 40 extending from the base 31 inside the peripheral wall portion 32 in the first direction X1. The first connector housing 30 is, for example, a single component in which the base 31, peripheral wall portion 32, and protective portion 40 are formed integrally. The first connector housing 30 is, for example, constructed of an insulating resin material.

[0070] (Structure of base 31)

[0071] Base 31 retains base 23 of the first terminal 22 (see Figure 5The base 31 has, for example, a fixing part 31A that protrudes to the outer side of the peripheral wall 32. The fixing part 31A is, for example, fixed to the housing of a vehicle-mounted device (not shown).

[0072] (Structure of the peripheral wall portion 32)

[0073] The peripheral wall portion 32 is formed as a partially cut-off ring. For example, the peripheral wall portion 32 is generally formed as a square ring extending in the first direction X1. For example, the peripheral wall portion 32 is formed as a shape in which the first direction X1 side is cut off in the second direction Y1 face of the square ring. The peripheral wall portion 32 surrounds the outer circumference of the two first terminal members 21.

[0074] In this specification, "ring" refers to a structure that is continuously connected without any breaks, that is, a ring-shaped structure with the same starting and ending points. Furthermore, "ring" in this specification includes circular rings with circular outer edges, rings with elliptical or oblong outer edges, polygonal rings with polygonal outer edges, and rings with rounded polygonal outer edges; it refers to a ring whose outer edge shape is any closed shape composed of straight lines or curves. A "ring" in top view has a through-hole shape, including rings where the outer edge shape and the inner circumference of the through-hole are the same, and rings where the outer edge shape and the inner circumference of the through-hole are different. A "ring" includes a ring having a predetermined length extending along an axial direction extending along a central axis, regardless of its length, where the central axis passes through the center of the through-hole. Additionally, "ring-shaped" in this specification only needs to be considered as a ring as a whole, including shapes such as a C-shape with notches, slits, etc., in some parts.

[0075] (Structure of Protection Section 40)

[0076] The protection unit 40 has two protection units 40A and 40B that individually protect the two first terminal members 21. Each protection unit 40A and 40B surrounds the outer periphery of each first terminal member 21. Protection unit 40A surrounds the outer periphery of the first terminal member 21 located on the third direction Z1 side, that is, the first terminal member 21 on the left side of the figure. Protection unit 40B surrounds the outer periphery of the first terminal member 21 located on the third opposite direction Z2 side, that is, the first terminal member 21 on the right side of the figure.

[0077] Each protective portion 40A, 40B is formed as a partially cut-off ring. Each protective portion 40A, 40B is, for example, formed as a square ring extending in the first direction X1. Each protective portion 40A, 40B is formed to cover the portion of the first terminal member 21 surrounding the direction orthogonal to the first direction X1, excluding the portion in the second direction Y1. Each protective portion 40A, 40B is formed with the first direction X1 side cut off in the second direction Y1 surface of the square ring. With this structure, each protective portion 40A, 40B has a first opening 41 opening in the first direction X1 and a second opening 42 opening in the second direction Y1. The tip of each protective portion 40A, 40B protrudes in the first direction X1 beyond the tip of the first terminal member 21.

[0078] Each protective part 40A, 40B has a pair of sidewalls 43, 44, a lower wall 45, and an upper wall 46. Sidewalls 43 and 44 face each other in the third direction Z1. The inner surface of sidewall 43 faces the connecting surface 24A of the connecting part 24. The inner surface of sidewall 44 faces the non-connecting surface 24B of the connecting part 24. The lower wall 45 is the peripheral wall of the second direction Y1 of each of the square annular protective parts 40A, 40B. The upper wall 46 is the peripheral wall of the second opposite direction Y2 of each of the square annular protective parts 40A, 40B. A second opening 42 is provided on the lower wall 45. The second opening 42 is formed by cutting away the lower wall 45 in the first direction X1. The second opening 42 is surrounded by the pair of sidewalls 43, 44 and the lower wall 45.

[0079] Two protective portions 40A and 40B are arranged along the third direction Z1. In this embodiment, the sidewalls 43 of both protective portions 40A and 40B are provided between the two first terminal members 21 along the third direction Z1. The sidewalls 43 of protective portions 40A and 40B are formed integrally, for example, by a connecting wall 47.

[0080] (Structure of the first fitting part 50)

[0081] like Figure 6As shown, the first connector 20, for example, has a first mating portion 50. The first mating portion 50 engages with the second mating portion 100 of the second connector 70. The first mating portion 50 engages with the second mating portion 100 in a direction intersecting the assembly direction D1 of the first connector 20 and the second connector 70. The first mating portion 50 engages with the second mating portion 100, for example, in a second direction Y1, which is the direction in which the second opening 42 opens. The first mating portion 50 is provided in the first connector housing 30. The first mating portion 50 is provided, for example, in the peripheral wall of the protective portions 40A and 40B. The first mating portion 50 is provided, for example, in the inner surface of the side wall 43 of the peripheral wall of the protective portions 40A and 40B, opposite the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal 22. In this embodiment, the first fitting portion 50 is provided on the inner surface of the side wall 43 of one protective portion 40A and on the inner surface of the side wall 43 of the other protective portion 40B. That is, the first connector housing 30 of this embodiment has two first fitting portions 50.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, each first fitting portion 50 has one or more (seven in this embodiment) protrusions 51 and one or more (six in this embodiment) recesses 52. Each first fitting portion 50 has seven protrusions 51 and six recesses 52 arranged alternately in the second direction Y1.

[0083] like Figure 7 As shown, each protrusion 51 protrudes from the bottom surface of each recess 52 toward the connection surface 24A of the first terminal 22. Each protrusion 51 extends, for example, from the bottom surface of each recess 52 along a third direction Z1 or a third opposite direction Z2. Each protrusion 51 also extends, for example, along a third direction Z1 orthogonal to the second direction Y1 that opens the second opening 42. In this embodiment, the protrusion 51 (first protrusion) provided on the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40A and the protrusion 51 (second protrusion) provided on the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40B protrude in opposite directions. Specifically, the protrusion 51 provided on the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40A protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall 43 toward the third direction Z1, and the protrusion 51 provided on the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40B protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall 43 toward the third opposite direction Z2. Each protrusion 51 extends from the top portion of the sidewall 43 along a first opposite direction X2. The axial direction of each protrusion 51 extending from the central axis is parallel to the first direction X1.

[0084] Each protrusion 51 has a protruding top surface 51A, a pair of side surfaces 51B, and an end surface 51C. Each protruding top surface 51A is the end surface of each protrusion 51 located at the position furthest from the bottom surface of the recess 52 in the third direction Z1. In other words, each protruding top surface 51A is the end surface of each protrusion 51 located at the position closest to the first terminal 22. Each protruding top surface 51A faces the first terminal 22. The protruding top surface 51A extends in the first direction X1 and in the second direction Y1. Each side surface 51B extends in the first direction X1 and in the third direction Z1. Each side surface 51B forms the inner side surface of the recess 52. The end surface 51C is the surface of the protrusion 51 in the first direction X1. The end surface 51C is, for example, formed flush with the top surface of the sidewall 43. The top surfaces of each end face 51C and sidewall 43 are connected to the second connector 70 in the first direction X1 (see...). Figure 6 Opposite.

[0085] Each recess 52 is formed by recessing from the protruding top surface 51A of each protrusion 51. Each recess 52 extends from the top surface of the sidewall 43 along a first opposite direction X2. The bottom surface of each recess 52, for example, faces the connection surface 24A of the first terminal 22. The top portion of each recess 52, that is, the end of each recess 52 in the first direction X1, opens in the first direction X1, for example, parallel to the assembly direction D1.

[0086] like Figure 8 As shown, each protrusion 51 has a guide portion 53 at its top end, that is, at the end of each protrusion 51 on the first direction X1 side, which is formed to taper towards the top end. The guide portion 53 is formed, for example, in a manner that tapers towards the end face 51C of the protrusion 51. The guide portion 53 is provided on the front side in the assembly direction D1. The guide portion 53 has an inclined surface 54 provided on the protruding top end face 51A and an inclined surface 55 provided on each side face 51B.

[0087] An inclined surface 54 is provided on the protruding top surface 51A in the top portion of the protrusion 51. The inclined surface 54 is inclined such that it approaches the central axis of the protrusion 51 as it moves toward the end surface 51C of the protrusion 51. The inclined surface 54 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. In addition, the inclined surface 54 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 54 is formed, for example, by chamfering the corners of the end surface 51C and the protruding top surface 51A. The chamfer can be either an R-angle or a C-angle. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 54 is formed by chamfering the corners of the end surface 51C and the protruding top surface 51A.

[0088] An inclined surface 55 is provided on the side surface 51B of the top end portion of the protrusion 51. The inclined surface 55 is inclined such that it approaches the central axis of the protrusion 51 toward the end face 51C of the protrusion 51. The inclined surface 55 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. In addition, the inclined surface 55 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 55 is formed in such a way that it enlarges the opening width of the recess 52 in the top end portion of the recess 52 along the second direction Y1. The inclined surface 55 is formed, for example, by chamfering the corners of the end face 51C and the side surface 51B with an R-angle or a C-angle. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 55 is formed by chamfering the corners of the end face 51C and the side surface 51B with a C-angle.

[0089] Each recess 52 has an inclined surface 56 at its top end. The inclined surface 56 is inclined such that it approaches the connecting wall 47 as it moves toward the top end of the side wall 43. The inclined surface 56 is formed to enlarge the opening width of the recess 52 along the third direction Z1 at its top end. The inclined surface 56 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. In addition, the inclined surface 56 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 56 is formed, for example, by chamfering the corners of the top end of the side wall 43 and the bottom end of the recess 52 with an R-angle or a C-angle. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 56 is formed by chamfering the corners of the top end of the side wall 43 and the bottom end of the recess 52 with a C-angle.

[0090] Guide portion 53, namely inclined surfaces 54, 55 and inclined surface 56, has a protrusion 101 that engages the second mating portion 100 when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20 (see Figure 12 The function of guiding the contents of the recess 52.

[0091] like Figure 5As shown, in the direction in which the protrusion 51 protrudes toward the first terminal 22, specifically in the third direction Z1 or the third opposite direction Z2, the shortest distance L1 between the protruding top surface 51A of the protrusion 51 and the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal 22 is set as the first distance. Here, the first distance is a distance in the range of 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less. In other words, in a cross section including the protruding top surface 51A and the connecting surface 24A and perpendicular to the central axis of the protective part 40, the shortest distance L1 between the protruding top surface 51A and the connecting surface 24A is, for example, set in the range of 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less. In addition, the first distance is preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 12 mm or less, and more preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 9 mm or less. By setting the shortest distance L1 as the first distance in this way, it is possible to prevent the operator's fingers from entering the gap between the protrusion 51 and the first terminal 22. As a result, it is possible to appropriately prevent the operator's fingers from contacting the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal 22. Additionally, the shortest distance L1 is set to the second terminal member 71 of the second connector 70 (see...). Figure 1 The distance that can be inserted.

[0092] Furthermore, in the third direction Z1, the shortest distance L2 between the inner surface (third surface) of the sidewall 44 and the non-connecting surface 24B (second surface) of the first terminal 22 is set to be less than or equal to the shortest distance L1 (L2≦L1). In other words, in a cross-section including the protruding top surface 51A and the connecting surface 24A, and perpendicular to the central axis of the protective portion 40, the shortest distance L2 between the inner surface of the sidewall 44 and the non-connecting surface 24B is set to be less than or equal to the shortest distance L1. By setting the shortest distance L2 in this way, it is possible to appropriately suppress the operator's fingers from entering the gap between the inner surface of the sidewall 44 and the first terminal 22. Thus, it is possible to appropriately suppress the operator's fingers from contacting the non-connecting surface 24B of the first terminal 22. In this embodiment, the shortest distance L2 is shorter than the shortest distance L1. That is, inside each protective portion 40, in the third direction Z1, the first terminal member 21 is disposed biased towards the sidewall 44 of the sidewalls 43 and 44.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the first connector housing 30 has a reinforcing portion 33 that connects the sidewall 43 having the first mating portion 50 and the base 31. The reinforcing portion 33 is, for example, provided inside each of the protective portions 40A and 40B. The reinforcing portion 33 connects, for example, the base end of the sidewall 43, that is, the end of the sidewall 43 in the first opposite direction X2, and the base 31 exposed in the protective portions 40A and 40B. The reinforcing portion 33 extends in the second direction Y1. The reinforcing portion 33 is, for example, not connected to the lower wall 45 and the upper wall 46. Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, the reinforcing portion 33 extends from the base 31 in the first direction X1. The reinforcing portion 33 extends from the base 31 along the first direction X1 to the midway along the length direction of the sidewall 43. The reinforcing portion 33 has a predetermined thickness in the third direction Z1. The reinforcing portion 33 integrates the base end of the sidewall 43 with the base 31. By providing this reinforcing portion 33, the rigidity of the sidewall 43 can be improved.

[0094] (Structure of sliding member 60)

[0095] like Figure 3 As shown, each sliding member 60 is assembled to each protective part 40A, 40B. Each sliding member 60 can be in a closed position that closes the second opening 42 (see...). Figure 1 ) to the opening position in the opposite direction X2 (see Figure 3 The sliding member 60 slides between the two openings. Here, the closed position, which closes the second opening 42, is simply a position that closes the second opening 42 to the point where a finger cannot reach the first terminal 22 through the second opening 42; it is not limited to the sliding member 60 sealing the second opening 42 in the closed position. The open position, on the other hand, is a position where the second opening 42 is open. The sliding member 60 is, for example, made of an insulating resin material.

[0096] (Structure of the second connector 70)

[0097] like Figure 1 As shown, the second connector 70 has one or more (two in this embodiment) metal second terminal members 71 and a second connector housing 80 that holds the second terminal members 71. In this embodiment, the two second terminal members 71 are held in the second connector housing 80 in a state arranged along the third direction Z1. The second connector housing 80 is detachable from the first connector housing 30. Furthermore, the description of the direction including the third direction Z1 in the second connector 70 is based on the state in which the second connector 70 is connected to the first connector 20.

[0098] (Structure of the second terminal component 71)

[0099] The top end of each second terminal member 71 extends toward the second opposite direction Y2. The second terminal member 71 is formed, for example, by stamping a metal sheet made of copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0100] like Figure 9As shown, a plurality of second terminal members 71 are respectively provided corresponding to a plurality of first terminals 22. Each second terminal member 71 has a connecting portion 72 at its top end that connects to the connecting surface 24A of each first terminal 22. When the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20, the connecting portion 72 of each second terminal member 71 contacts the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal 22 for electrical connection. When the second connector 70 and the first connector 20 are engaged, the second terminal members 71 are arranged through the second opening 42 of the protective portions 40A and 40B.

[0101] (Structure of the second connector housing 80)

[0102] like Figure 10 As shown, the second connector housing 80 has an inner housing 81 that houses the second terminal member 71 and an outer housing 110 that covers the inner housing 81. The inner housing 81 and the outer housing 110 are independent components.

[0103] (Structure of inner shell 81)

[0104] The inner housing 81 has, for example, a base 82 and a terminal receiving portion 90 protruding from the base 82 in a second opposite direction Y2. The inner housing 81 is, for example, made of an insulating resin material.

[0105] like Figure 11 As shown, a base 82 is provided at the end of the inner housing 81 on the second direction Y1 side. The base 82 is formed in an annular shape. The base 82 has, for example, a through hole 82X through which a wire 75 electrically connected to the second terminal member 71 passes. The base 82 has two through holes 82X through which two wires 75 pass individually. Each through hole 82X extends through the base 82 in the second direction Y1. The base 82 has a partition wall 83 that separates the two through holes 82X. The partition wall 83 is provided between the two through holes 82X in the third direction Z1. The partition wall 83 is, for example, provided at the central portion of the base 82 in the third direction Z1. The partition wall 83 extends, for example, along the entire length of the base 82 in the second direction Y1.

[0106] like Figure 12 As shown, the terminal housing 90 houses two second terminal members 71. The terminal housing 90 may have, for example, two terminal housing sections 90A and 90B that individually house the two second terminal members 71. The two terminal housing sections 90 are connected together to a base 82. In other words, the two terminal housing sections 90A and 90B are formed as a single unit via the base 82.

[0107] Each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B is, for example, formed as a box extending from the base 82 along the second opposite direction Y2. In other words, each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B is, for example, formed as a bottomed ring with a bottom wall 91. The bottom wall 91 is formed by the peripheral wall of the terminal housing portions 90A and 90B in the second opposite direction Y2. The internal space of each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B is connected to each through hole 82X of the base 82 (see...). Figure 11 The second terminal member 71 is housed within the internal space of each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B. Each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B has an insertion hole 92 for inserting the first terminal member 21 of the first connector 20. Each insertion hole 92 is formed through a peripheral wall 93 in the terminal housing portion 90A and 90B in a first opposite direction X2. Each insertion hole 92 penetrates the peripheral wall 93 along a first direction X1 parallel to the assembly direction D1. Each insertion hole 92 communicates with the internal space of each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B. Each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B holds the second terminal member 71 in a state in which the connecting portion 72 of each second terminal member 71 is exposed within the internal space of each terminal housing portion 90A and 90B.

[0108] Two terminal receiving portions 90A and 90B are arranged along a third direction Z1. The two terminal receiving portions 90A and 90B are separated from each other in the third direction Z1. That is, a gap is provided between the two terminal receiving portions 90A and 90B. Terminal receiving portion 90A has a facing surface 94A opposite to terminal receiving portion 90B. Facing surface 94A is a surface in the terminal receiving portion 90A in the third opposite direction Z2. Terminal receiving portion 90B has a facing surface 94B opposite to terminal receiving portion 90A.

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, the second connector housing 80 has a second mating portion 100 that engages with the first mating portion 50 of the first connector 20. The second mating portion 100 engages with the first mating portion 50 in a direction intersecting the assembly direction D1. The second mating portion 100 is provided in the inner housing 81. Figure 12 As shown, the second mating portion 100 is provided, for example, on the opposing surface 94A of the terminal receiving portion 90A, and on the opposing surface 94B of the terminal receiving portion 90B. That is, the second connector housing 80 of this embodiment has two second mating portions 100.

[0110] like Figure 9As shown, each second mating portion 100 has one or more (six in this embodiment) protrusions 101 and one or more (seven in this embodiment) recesses 102. Each second mating portion 100 has six protrusions 101 and seven recesses 102 arranged alternately in the second direction Y1. The six protrusions 101 engage with the six recesses 102 respectively. The seven recesses 102 engage with the seven protrusions 51 respectively. When the second connector 70 is assembled with the first connector 20, the protrusions 51 of the first mating portion 50 and the protrusions 101 of the second mating portion 100 engage with each other in the second direction Y1. When the second connector 70 is engaged with the first connector 20, the sidewalls 43 and connecting walls 47 of the two protective portions 40A and 40B are fitted into the gap between the opposing surfaces 94A and 94B of the two terminal receiving portions 90A and 90B. In this embodiment, for the two first fitting portions 50 provided on the two side walls 43, the two second fitting portions 100 engage with each other from both sides in the third direction Z1 and the third opposite direction Z2. Specifically, the second fitting portion 100 provided on the opposing surface 94A engages with the first fitting portion 50 provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40A, and the second fitting portion 100 provided on the opposing surface 94B engages with the first fitting portion 50 provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40B. More specifically, the protrusion 101 (third protrusion) provided on the opposing surface 94A engages with the recess 52 (first recess) provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40A. In addition, the protrusion 51 (first protrusion) provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40A engages with the recess 102 (second recess) provided on the opposing surface 94A. Similarly, the protrusion 101 (fourth protrusion) provided on the opposing surface 94B engages with the recess 52 provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40B. Furthermore, the protrusion 51 (second protrusion) provided on the side wall 43 of the protective portion 40B engages with the recess 102 provided on the opposing surface 94B. Therefore, in this embodiment, the two first engaging portions 50 are held by the two second engaging portions 100 in the third direction Z1.

[0111] In one of the two second mating portions 100, each protrusion 101 in one second mating portion 100 protrudes toward the protrusion 101 in the other second mating portion 100. For example, each protrusion 101 provided on the opposing surface 94A protrudes from the bottom surface of each recess 102 provided on the opposing surface 94A toward the opposing surface 94B. For example, each protrusion 101 provided on the opposing surface 94B protrudes from the bottom surface of each recess 102 provided on the opposing surface 94B toward the opposing surface 94A. Each protrusion 101 protrudes, for example, by extending from the bottom surface of each recess 102 along a third direction Z1 or a third opposite direction Z2.

[0112] like Figure 12As shown, each protrusion 101 extends from its end face 93A in the peripheral wall 93 in the first opposite direction X2 toward the first direction X1. The axial direction of each protrusion 101 extending along its central axis is parallel to the first direction X1. Each protrusion 101 has a protruding top surface 101A, a pair of side surfaces 101B, and an end face 101C. Each protruding top surface 101A is the end face of each protrusion 101 located at the position furthest from the bottom surface of the recess 102 in the third direction Z1. The protruding top surface 101A in one of the two second fitting portions 100 is opposite to the protruding top surface 101A in the other second fitting portion 100. The protruding top surface 101A extends toward the first direction X1 and toward the second direction Y1. Each side surface 101B extends toward the first direction X1 and toward the third direction Z1. Each side 101B forms the inner side of the recess 102. The end face 101C is the face in the first opposite direction X2 of the protrusion 101.

[0113] Each recess 102 is formed by recessing into the protruding top surface 101A of each protrusion 101. Each recess 102 extends from the end face 93A of the peripheral wall 93 along the first direction X1. The bottom surface of each recess 102 in one of the two second fitting portions 100 faces the bottom surface of each recess 102 in the other second fitting portion 100. The top portion of each recess 102, that is, the end of each recess 102 in the first opposite direction X2, opens, for example, in the first opposite direction X2 parallel to the assembly direction D1.

[0114] like Figure 13 As shown, the tip portion of each protrusion 101, that is, the end portion on the first opposite direction X2 side of each protrusion 101, has a guide portion 103 formed into a tapered shape. Each guide portion 103 is provided in the protrusion 101 closest to the first connector 20 (see...). Figure 6 The end of the guide portion 103 is formed, for example, in a manner that tapers toward the end face 93A of the peripheral wall 93. Each guide portion 103 has an inclined surface 104 provided on the end face 101C and an inclined surface 105 provided on each side face 101B.

[0115] The inclined surface 104 is inclined such that it approaches the bottom surface of the recess 102 as it moves toward the end face 93A of the peripheral wall 93. The inclined surface 104 is provided on the entire surface of the end face 101C. The inclined surface 104 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. In addition, the inclined surface 104 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1.

[0116] An inclined surface 105 is provided on the side surface 101B of the top end portion of the protrusion 101. The inclined surface 105 is inclined such that it approaches the central axis of the protrusion 101 as it moves toward the end face 101C of the protrusion 101. The inclined surface 105 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 105 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 105 is formed in such a way that it enlarges the opening width of the recess 102 along the second direction Y1 in the top end portion of the recess 102. The inclined surface 105 is formed, for example, by chamfering the corners of the end face 101C and the side surface 101B with an R-angle or a C-angle. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 105 is formed by chamfering the corners of the end face 101C and the side surface 101B with a C-angle.

[0117] Each recess 102 has an inclined surface 106 at its top end. The inclined surface 106 is inclined away from the protruding top end surface 101A as it moves toward the end face 93A of the peripheral wall 93. The inclined surface 106 is formed to enlarge the opening width of the recess 102 in the third direction Z1 at the top end of the recess 102. The inclined surface 106 is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 106 is inclined relative to a plane parallel to the assembly direction D1. The inclined surface 106 is formed, for example, by chamfering the corners of the end face 93A of the peripheral wall 93 and the bottom surface of the recess 102 with a rounded (R) or chamfered (C) angle. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 106 is formed by chamfering the corners of the end face 93A and the bottom surface of the recess 102 with a chamfered (C) angle. A portion of the inclined surface 106 is integrally formed with the inclined surface 104, for example.

[0118] Guide portion 103, namely inclined surfaces 104, 105 and inclined surface 106, has a protrusion 51 that engages the first mating portion 50 when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20. Figure 7 (Refer to) the function of guiding into the interior of the recess 102.

[0119] (Structure of outer shell 110)

[0120] like Figure 10 and Figure 14As shown, the outer casing 110 surrounds the outer periphery of the inner casing 81. In other words, the inner casing 81 is housed inside the outer casing 110. The outer casing 110 is formed as a bottomed annular shape with a bottom wall 111. For example, the outer casing 110 is formed as a bottomed annular shape with an opening in the second direction Y1 and an opening in the second opposite direction Y2 closed by the bottom wall 111. The outer casing 110 has an opening 112 that exposes the peripheral walls 93 of the terminal housing portions 90A and 90B. The opening 112 is provided in the peripheral wall 113 in the first opposite direction X2 of the outer casing 110. The opening 112 is provided at the end of the peripheral wall 113 on the second opposite direction Y2 side, that is, the end of the peripheral wall 113 on the bottom wall 111 side. The opening 112 extends through the peripheral wall 113 along the first direction X1 parallel to the assembly direction D1. The opening 112 communicates with the internal space of the outer casing 110.

[0121] The outer peripheral surface of the outer casing 110 has one or more (four in this embodiment) engaging portions 120. The engaging portions 120 are, for example, provided on the outer surface of the end of the peripheral wall 113 on the second direction Y1 side. Figure 10 As shown, two engaging portions 120 are provided on the outer surface of the peripheral wall 113 at the end in the second direction Y1. The two engaging portions 120 are provided separately from each other, for example, in the third direction Z1. Each engaging portion 120 is formed, for example, to protrude radially outward from the outer surface of the peripheral wall 113 towards the outer surface of the housing 110. Figure 1 As shown, two engaging portions 120 are also provided on the peripheral wall of the outer casing 110 in the first direction X1.

[0122] (Structure of the second connector 70)

[0123] like Figure 14 As shown, the second connector 70 has, for example, an inner member 130 that supports the inner housing 81. The second connector 70 has, for example, one or more (two in this embodiment) annular sealing members 140 that engage with the inner side of the inner member 130; and an annular sealing member 150 that engages with the outer side of the inner member 130.

[0124] (Structure of internal component 130)

[0125] The inner member 130 is assembled to the end of the outer casing 110 on the second direction Y1 side. The inner member 130 is, for example, a component independent of the inner housing 81. A portion of the inner member 130 is housed inside the outer casing 110. The inner member 130 supports the inner housing 81 inside the outer casing 110. The inner member 130 supports the inner housing 81, for example, by pressing the inner housing 81 towards the inner surface of the bottom wall 111 inside the outer casing 110.

[0126] like Figure 15 As shown, the inner member 130 includes: a main body portion 131; a protrusion 132 protruding from an end face of the main body portion 131 in a second opposite direction Y2 toward the second opposite direction Y2; and one or more (four in this embodiment) engaging portions 133. The inner member 130 is, for example, a single component in which the main body portion 131, the protrusion 132, and the engaging portions 133 are formed as a single unit. The inner member 130 is, for example, made of an insulating resin material.

[0127] The main body 131 is formed in a ring shape. The main body 131 is generally formed in a square ring shape. For example, the main body 131 has two wires 75 (see...). Figure 10 Two through holes 131X are individually inserted. Two sealing members 140 are individually fitted into the two through holes 131X. Each through hole 131X penetrates the main body 131 in the second direction Y1. The planar shape of each through hole 131X, for example, when viewed from the through direction of the through hole 131X, is quadrilateral. The main body 131 has a partition wall 134 that separates the two through holes 131X. The partition wall 134 is provided between the two through holes 131X in the third direction Z1. The partition wall 134 is provided, for example, at the central portion of the main body 131 in the third direction Z1. The partition wall 134 extends, for example, along the entire length of the main body 131 in the second direction Y1.

[0128] The main body 131 has one or more (four in this embodiment) limiting walls 135 disposed on the inner peripheral surface of each through hole 131X. Each limiting wall 135 is formed protruding radially inward from the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 131X in the end of the second opposite direction Y2. Each limiting wall 135 extends, for example, from the central portion of the main body 131 in the second direction Y1 to the end face of the main body 131 in the second opposite direction Y2.

[0129] The outer peripheral surface of the main body 131 has a groove 136, on which a sealing member 150 is mounted. The groove 136 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 131 at the end on the second opposite direction Y2 side. The groove 136 is formed such that it is recessed radially inward from the outer peripheral surface of the main body 131. The groove 136 is formed continuously around the entire circumference of the main body 131. For example, the groove 136 extends from the central portion of the main body 131 in the second direction Y1 to the end face of the main body 131 in the second opposite direction Y2.

[0130] The protrusion 132 protrudes, for example, from an end face in the partition wall 134 in a second opposite direction Y2 toward the second opposite direction Y2. The protrusion 132 extends, for example, in a first direction X1 and has a predetermined thickness in a third direction Z1. Figure 14As shown, the protrusion 132 contacts the partition wall 83 of the base 82 when the inner member 130 is assembled into the outer shell 110. The top surface of the protrusion 132, that is, the end surface of the protrusion 132 in the second opposite direction Y2, contacts the end surface of the partition wall 83 in the second direction Y1. For example, by contacting the partition wall 83, the protrusion 132 presses the inner shell 81 toward the bottom wall 111, thereby supporting the inner shell 81 inside the outer shell 110.

[0131] Four engaging portions 133 are provided corresponding to the four engaging portions 120 of the outer casing 110. Each engaging portion 133 is formed, for example, protruding from the end of the main body portion 131 in the second direction Y1 toward the second opposite direction Y2. Each engaging portion 133 is provided separately from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 131 in the first direction X1. Each engaging portion 133 is formed in a cantilever shape, with the base end connected to the main body portion 131 as a fixed end and the top end on the side opposite to the base end in the second direction Y1 as a free end. Each engaging portion 133 is configured to be able to flex in the first direction X1 by elastic deformation. Each engaging portion 133 has an engaging hole 133X that engages with the engaging portion 120. The engaging hole 133X extends, for example, along the second direction Y1. The engaging portions 133 and 120 engage with each other, for example, by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. The inner component 130 is fixed to the outer shell 110 by the interlocking of the engaging part 133 and the engaging part 120.

[0132] (Structure of sealing components 140 and 150)

[0133] Two sealing members 140 are respectively provided corresponding to two wires 75. The two sealing members 140 are respectively fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the two wires 75. Each sealing member 140 is fitted into the inner side of each through hole 131X. Each sealing member 140 is formed in an annular shape having an outer peripheral surface along the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 131X. Each sealing member 140 has a through hole 141 through which each wire 75 passes. The inner peripheral surface of the through hole 141 is formed in a shape along the outer peripheral surface of the wire 75. Each sealing member 140 is configured to be elastically deformable. Each sealing member 140 is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the wire 75 and with the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 131X. Each sealing member 140 seals the space between the outer peripheral surface of the wire 75 and the inner peripheral surface of the inner member 130. Furthermore, the end face of each sealing member 140 in the second opposite direction Y2 is inside the through hole 131X and... Figure 15 The limiting wall 135 is shown in contact with the sealing member 140. By contacting the limiting wall 135, the insertion amount of each sealing member 140 relative to each through hole 131X can be limited. In other words, the limiting wall 135 has the function of positioning each sealing member 140 inside each through hole 131X.

[0134] like Figure 14As shown, the sealing member 150 is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the inner member 130. The sealing member 150 is, for example, fitted onto the bottom surface of the groove 136 of the main body 131. The sealing member 150 is disposed inside the outer casing 110. The sealing member 150 is formed as a continuous annulus covering the entire circumference of the inner member 130. The outer peripheral surface of the sealing member 150 is shaped along the inner peripheral surface of the outer casing 110. The inner peripheral surface of the sealing member 150 is shaped along the outer peripheral surface of the inner member 130. The sealing member 150 is configured to be elastically deformable. The sealing member 150, for example, is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the inner member 130 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer casing 110. The sealing member 150 seals the space between the outer peripheral surface of the inner member 130 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer casing 110.

[0135] Sealing components 140 and 150 are, for example, made of rubber. Materials used for sealing components 140 and 150 include, for example, nitrile rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane rubber, acrylic rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, etc.

[0136] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0137] (1) The first connector housing 30 has a first engaging portion 50, which engages with a second engaging portion 100 of the second connector 70 located on the opposite side, and engages with the second engaging portion 100 in a second direction Y1 intersecting the assembly direction D1 of the first connector 20 and the second connector 70. This engagement of the first engaging portion 50 with the second engaging portion 100 restricts movement of the first connector housing 30 in the second direction Y1. Therefore, even when vibration is applied to the first connector 20 assembled with the second connector 70, relative movement of the first connector housing 30 relative to the second connector 70 in the second direction Y1 can be suppressed. Consequently, relative movement of the first terminal member 21 held in the first connector housing 30 relative to the second terminal member 71 provided in the second connector 70 can be suppressed. As a result, contact wear of the first terminal member 21 and the second terminal member 71 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0138] (2) The first fitting portion 50 has a protrusion 51 extending from the inner surface of the sidewall 43 along the third direction Z1 and protruding toward the first terminal member 21. The first terminal member 21 has a connecting surface 24A opposite to the protrusion 51 in the third direction Z1. The shortest distance L1 between the protruding top surface 51A of the protrusion 51 in the third direction Z1 and the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal member 21 is set as a first distance. Here, the first distance is a distance in the range of 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less. The first distance is preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 12 mm or less, and more preferably a distance in the range of 6 mm or more and 9 mm or less. By setting the shortest distance L1 as the first distance, it is possible to prevent the operator's finger from entering the gap between the top of the protrusion 51 and the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal member 21. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operator's finger from contacting the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal member 21 through the gap between the top of the protrusion 51 and the connecting surface 24A of the first terminal member 21. Therefore, measures can be taken to prevent electric shock and to suppress wear on the contacts.

[0139] (3) The first connector housing 30 has a sidewall 44, which is disposed in the third direction Z1 on the side opposite to the sidewall 43 where the first mating portion 50 is disposed, across the first terminal member 21. Furthermore, the shortest distance L2 between the inner surface (third surface) of the sidewall 44 in the third direction Z1 and the non-connecting surface 24B (second surface) of the first terminal member 21 is set to be less than or equal to the first distance. This prevents the operator's finger from entering the gap between the inner surface of the sidewall 44 and the non-connecting surface 24B of the first terminal member 21. Therefore, it prevents the operator's finger from contacting the first terminal member 21 through the gap between the inner surface of the sidewall 44 and the non-connecting surface 24B of the first terminal member 21.

[0140] (4) A first fitting portion 50 is provided on the sidewall 43 between the plurality of first terminal members 21. Therefore, the first fitting portion 50 can be provided near the plurality of first terminal members 21. Therefore, the relative movement of the first terminal members 21 provided near the first fitting portion 50 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0141] (5) The first engaging portion 50 and the second engaging portion 100 engage with each other in the second direction Y1 where the second opening 42 of the protective portion 40 opens. Here, with the second opening 42 opening in the second direction Y1 intersecting the assembly direction D1, and with the second connector 70 assembled to the first connector 20, the first connector housing 30 is prone to relative movement relative to the second connector 70 in the second direction Y1. In contrast, in the above structure, the first engaging portion 50 engages with the second engaging portion 100 in the second direction Y1, thus appropriately suppressing relative movement of the first connector housing 30 relative to the second connector 70 in the second direction Y1.

[0142] (6) The first fitting portion 50 is provided on the inner surface of the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40 that surrounds the outer periphery of the first terminal member 21. Therefore, the first fitting portion 50 can be provided near the first terminal member 21. Therefore, the relative movement of the first terminal member 21 provided near the first fitting portion 50 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0143] (7) The protective portion 40 has two protective portions 40A and 40B that individually protect the two first terminal members 21. Furthermore, the first fitting portion 50 has a protrusion 51 (first protrusion) provided on the protective portion 40A and a protrusion 51 (second protrusion) provided on the protective portion 40B. In other words, the first fitting portion 50 is provided on both the two protective portions 40A and 40B. Therefore, the first fitting portion 50 can be provided near each of the two first terminal members 21. Therefore, the relative movement of the two first terminal members 21 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0144] (8) The first mating portion 50 has a protrusion 51 and a recess 52 recessed from the protruding top surface 51A of the protrusion 51. The protrusion 51 has inclined surfaces 54 and 55 (first inclined surfaces), which guide the protrusion 101 of the second mating portion 100 of the second connector 70 toward the interior of the recess 52 when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20. Therefore, when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20, the first mating portion 50 and the second mating portion 100 can easily engage. Thus, the second connector 70 can be easily assembled to the first connector 20.

[0145] (9) The recess 52 has an inclined surface 56 (second inclined surface), which guides the protrusion 101 of the second mating portion 100 of the second connector 70 toward the interior of the recess 52 when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20. Therefore, when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20, the first mating portion 50 and the second mating portion 100 can easily engage. Thus, the second connector 70 can be easily assembled to the first connector 20.

[0146] (10) The first connector housing 30 has a reinforcing portion 33 that connects the base 31 to the base end of the sidewall 43 on which the first mating portion 50 is provided. Therefore, compared with a structure without the reinforcing portion 33, the shaking of the sidewall 43 can be suppressed when vibration is applied to the first connector 20. As a result, relative movement of the first connector housing 30 can be suppressed, and in turn, relative movement of the first terminal member 21 can be suppressed.

[0147] (11) The second connector 70 has a second mating portion 100, which engages with the first mating portion 50 of the first connector 20 located on the opposite side, and engages with the first mating portion 50 in a second direction Y1 that intersects the assembly direction D1 of the first connector 20 and the second connector 70. The second mating portion 100 is provided in the inner housing 81 that houses the second terminal member 71. By engaging the second mating portion 100 with the first mating portion 50, movement of the inner housing 81 in the second direction Y1 can be restricted. Therefore, even if vibration is applied to the second connector 70 assembled with the first connector 20, relative movement of the inner housing 81 relative to the first connector 20 in the second direction Y1 can be suppressed. Thus, relative movement of the second terminal member 71 housed in the inner housing 81 relative to the first terminal member 21 provided in the first connector 20 can be suppressed. As a result, contact wear of the first terminal member 21 and the second terminal member 71 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0148] (12) The inner housing 81 has a base 82 and a terminal receiving portion 90 extending from the base 82. Furthermore, the second fitting portion 100 is provided on the outer surface of the terminal receiving portion 90, which houses the second terminal member 71 within the inner housing 81. Therefore, the second fitting portion 100 can be provided near the second terminal member 71. Thus, relative movement of the second terminal member 71 provided near the second fitting portion 100 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0149] (13) The terminal housing portion 90 has two terminal housing portions 90A and 90B that individually house two second terminal members 71. Terminal housing portion 90A has a facing surface 94A opposite to terminal housing portion 90B in the third direction Z1, and terminal housing portion 90B has a facing surface 94B opposite to facing surface 94A. Furthermore, the second fitting portion 100 has a protrusion 101 (third protrusion) provided on facing surface 94A and a protrusion 101 (fourth protrusion) provided on facing surface 94B. In other words, the second fitting portion 100 is provided on both the two terminal housing portions 90A and 90B. Therefore, the second fitting portion 100 can be provided near the second terminal members 71 housed in the terminal housing portions 90A and 90B respectively. Therefore, the relative movement of the second terminal members 71 provided near the second fitting portion 100 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0150] (14) The protrusion 101 (third protrusion) provided on the opposing surface 94A and the protrusion 101 (fourth protrusion) provided on the opposing surface 94B are arranged opposite to each other in the third direction Z1. Therefore, when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20, the two first mating portions 50 of the first connector 20 are clamped from both sides of the third direction Z1 by the two second mating portions 100. Therefore, the two second mating portions 100 engage with each other from both sides of the third direction Z1 relative to the two first mating portions 50. As a result, the movement of the first connector housing 30 and the inner housing 81 in the second direction Y1 and the third direction Z1 can be appropriately restricted. As a result, the relative movement of the first connector housing 30 and the inner housing 81 can be more appropriately suppressed, and the relative movement of the first terminal member 21 and the second terminal member 71 can be more appropriately suppressed.

[0151] (15) The second mating portion 100 provided on the opposing surface 94A has a protrusion 101 (third protrusion) and a recess 102 (second recess) recessed from the protruding top surface 101A of the protrusion 101 toward the opposing surface 94A. Similarly, the second mating portion 100 provided on the opposing surface 94B has a protrusion 101 and a recess 102 recessed from the protruding top surface 101A of the protrusion 101 toward the opposing surface 94B. Each protrusion 101 has inclined surfaces 104 and 105 (third inclined surfaces), which guide the protrusion 51 of the first mating portion 50 of the first connector 20 toward the interior of the recess 102 when the second connector 70 is assembled with the first connector 20. Therefore, when the second connector 70 is assembled with the first connector 20, the first mating portion 50 and the second mating portion 100 can easily fit together. Therefore, the second connector 70 can be easily assembled to the first connector 20.

[0152] (16) The recess 102 has an inclined surface 106 (fourth inclined surface), which guides the protrusion 51 of the first mating portion 50 of the first connector 20 toward the interior of the recess 102 when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20. Therefore, when the second connector 70 is assembled to the first connector 20, the first mating portion 50 and the second mating portion 100 can easily engage. Thus, the second connector 70 can be easily assembled to the first connector 20.

[0153] (17) The second connector 70 has an inner member 130 inside the housing 110 that supports the inner housing 81. Therefore, when vibration is applied to the second connector 70, the shaking of the inner housing 81 inside the housing 110 can be suppressed compared to a structure without the inner member 130. As a result, relative movement of the inner housing 81 can be suppressed, and consequently, relative movement of the second terminal member 71 can be suppressed.

[0154] (18) The terminal housing portion 90A and the terminal housing portion 90B are formed as a single unit via the base 82. Therefore, compared to the case where the terminal housing portion 90A and the terminal housing portion 90B are composed of separate parts, the number of parts can be reduced. In addition, the inner member 130, which contacts the base 82, can support both the terminal housing portion 90A and the terminal housing portion 90B. Therefore, compared to the case where a separate structure is provided for supporting the terminal housing portion 90A and the terminal housing portion 90B, the structure of the inner member 130 can be simplified.

[0155] (Other implementation methods)

[0156] The above-described embodiments can be modified and implemented as follows. The above-described embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0157] The protrusion 51 in the above embodiment is provided with inclined surfaces 54 and 55, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the protrusion 51 may be provided without inclined surface 54. For example, the protrusion 51 may be provided without inclined surface 55. For example, the protrusion 51 may be provided without both inclined surfaces 54 and 55.

[0158] The recess 52 in the above embodiment is provided with an inclined surface 56, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the recess 52 may also be provided without an inclined surface 56.

[0159] The number of protrusions 51 and recesses 52 in the first fitting portion 50 of the above embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, the first fitting portion 50 may be configured to have only one protrusion 51.

[0160] The number of the first fitting part 50 in the above embodiment is not limited to two, and may be changed to one or more.

[0161] In the first connector housing 30 of the above embodiment, a first engaging portion 50 is provided on the sidewall 43 of the protective portion 40 between the plurality of first terminal members 21, but this is not a limitation. For example, the first engaging portion 50 may also be provided on the sidewall 44 of the protective portion 40. In this case, the first engaging portion 50 may be provided on either the inner or outer surface of the sidewall 44. For example, the first engaging portion 50 may also be provided on the upper wall 46 of the protective portion 40. In this case, the first engaging portion 50 may be provided on either the inner or outer surface of the upper wall 46.

[0162] • In the first connector housing 30 of the above embodiment, a first fitting portion 50 is provided in the peripheral wall of the protective portion 40 in the wall extending in the first direction X1 at the top end, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first fitting portion 50 may also be provided in the peripheral wall portion 32.

[0163] • In the protection section 40 of the above embodiment, the side wall 43 of the protection section 40A and the side wall 43 of the protection section 40B are formed as one piece by the connecting wall 47, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured such that the connecting wall 47 is omitted from the protection section 40, and the side wall 43 of the protection section 40A and the side wall 43 of the protection section 40B are not integrated.

[0164] In the above embodiment, the protective portion 40 is configured to have a second opening 42 that opens in the second direction Y1, but it is not limited to this. The protective portion 40 may also be configured without the second opening 42. In this case, the protective portion 40 completely surrounds the periphery of the first terminal member 21 in the direction orthogonal to the first direction X1, and opens only in the first direction X1 through the first opening 41. In this case, the sliding member 60 is omitted.

[0165] • The reinforcing part 33 in the first connector housing 30 of the above embodiment can also be omitted.

[0166] The first terminal member 21 in the above embodiment is configured to have a first terminal 22 and a protective member 25, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the first terminal member 21 may also be configured to have a structure without the protective member 25, that is, a structure with only the first terminal 22.

[0167] The protrusion 101 in the above embodiment is provided with inclined surfaces 104 and 105, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the protrusion 101 may be provided without inclined surface 104. For example, the protrusion 101 may be provided without inclined surface 105. For example, the protrusion 101 may be provided without both inclined surfaces 104 and 105.

[0168] The recess 102 in the above embodiment is provided with an inclined surface 106, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the recess 102 may also be provided without an inclined surface 106.

[0169] The number of protrusions 101 and recesses 102 in the second fitting portion 100 of the above embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, the second fitting portion 100 may be configured to have only one protrusion 101.

[0170] The number of the second fitting part 100 in the above embodiment is not limited to two, and may be changed to one or more.

[0171] • In the inner housing 81 of the above embodiment, a second fitting portion 100 is provided on the opposing surfaces 94A and 94B of the two terminal storage portions 90A and 90B that are opposite to each other in the third direction Z1, but this is not a limitation. For example, the second fitting portion 100 may also be provided on the outer surface of the terminal storage portions 90A and 90B that is not opposite to the other terminal storage portion 90.

[0172] In the inner housing 81 of the above embodiment, the terminal storage portion 90A and the terminal storage portion 90B are formed as one piece by the base portion 82, but this is not a limitation. For example, the terminal storage portion 90A and the terminal storage portion 90B may also be provided as separate parts.

[0173] • Alternatively, the inner component 130 in the second connector 70 of the above embodiment can be omitted.

[0174] • The sealing members 140 and 150 in the second connector 70 of the above embodiment can also be omitted.

[0175] • The first connector 20 in the above embodiment is configured to have two first terminal members 21, but it may also be configured to have one or more first terminal members 21.

[0176] • The second connector 70 in the above embodiment is configured to have two second terminal members 71, but it may also be configured to have one or more second terminal members 71.

[0177] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is not as described above, but is set forth by the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0178] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0179] 10 Connector Assembly

[0180] 20 Connector No. 1

[0181] 21 Terminal component 1

[0182] 22 Terminal 1

[0183] 23 Base

[0184] 24 Connecting parts

[0185] 24A Connection Surface (Surface 1)

[0186] 24B Non-connected surface (second surface)

[0187] 25 Protective components

[0188] 30 First Connector Housing

[0189] 31 Base

[0190] 31A Fixing Part

[0191] 32. Perimeter wall

[0192] 33 Strengthening Department

[0193] 40 Protection Department

[0194] 40A Protection Section (First Protection Section)

[0195] 40B Protection Section (Second Protection Section)

[0196] 41 First opening

[0197] 42 Second opening

[0198] 43 Side wall (first wall)

[0199] 44. Side wall (2nd wall)

[0200] 45 lower wall

[0201] 46 upper wall

[0202] 47 Connecting Wall

[0203] 50 1st fitting part

[0204] 51 convex part (1st convex part, 2nd convex part)

[0205] 51A Protruding top surface

[0206] 51B Side View

[0207] 51C end face

[0208] 52 recess (1st recess)

[0209] 53 Guidance Department

[0210] Inclined surfaces 54 and 55 (first inclined surface)

[0211] 56 Inclined Surface (Second Inclined Surface)

[0212] 60 Sliding Member

[0213] 70 Second Connector

[0214] 71 Second terminal component

[0215] 72 Connecting part

[0216] 75 wire

[0217] 80 Second connector housing

[0218] 81 Inner shell

[0219] 82 Base

[0220] 82X Through Hole

[0221] 83. Partition wall

[0222] 90 Terminal Storage Section

[0223] 90A Terminal Storage Section (Terminal 1 Storage Section)

[0224] 90B Terminal Storage Section (Second Terminal Storage Section)

[0225] 91 bottom wall

[0226] 92 Insertion Hole

[0227] 93 Zhou Bi

[0228] 93A end face

[0229] 94A Opposite Plane (First Opposite Plane)

[0230] 94B Opposite Plane (Second Opposite Plane)

[0231] 100 2nd fitting part

[0232] 101 convex part (3rd convex part, 4th convex part)

[0233] 101A Protruding Top Face

[0234] 101B Side View

[0235] 101C end face

[0236] 102 Recessed portion (2nd recessed portion)

[0237] 103 Guidance Department

[0238] Inclined surfaces 104 and 105 (3rd inclined surface)

[0239] 106 Inclined Surface (4th Inclined Surface)

[0240] 110 Outer shell

[0241] 111 bottom wall

[0242] 112 Opening

[0243] 113 Zhou Bi

[0244] 120 Card Unit

[0245] 130 Internal components

[0246] 131 Main Body

[0247] 131X Through Hole

[0248] 132 Protrusion

[0249] 133 Card Section

[0250] 133X snap-fit ​​hole

[0251] 134 partition wall

[0252] 135 Restriction Wall

[0253] 136 Groove

[0254] 140 Sealing component

[0255] 141 Through hole

[0256] 150 Sealing Components

[0257] D1 Assembly Direction

[0258] L1 Shortest distance

[0259] L2 Shortest Distance

Claims

1. A first connector detachable from a second connector, said first connector having: A plurality of first terminal members extending at their top ends toward a first direction; and The first connector housing holds the plurality of the first terminal components. The first connector housing has a first wall extending from its top end toward the first direction, and a second terminal member disposed in the second connector is inserted between the first terminal member and the first wall. The first wall has a first fitting portion that engages with the second fitting portion disposed on the second connector. The first fitting part engages with the second fitting part in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector. The first fitting portion has a first protrusion that extends from the first wall along a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction, and protrudes toward the first terminal member. The first terminal member has a first surface that faces the first protrusion in the third direction. The shortest distance L1 between the top of the first protrusion in the third direction and the first surface of the first terminal member is the first distance, which is set to the distance at which the second terminal member of the second connector can be inserted.

2. The first connector according to claim 1, wherein, The first fitting portion has a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of first recesses arranged alternately in the second direction.

3. The first connector according to claim 1, wherein, The first surface of the first terminal member is a connection surface that is connected to the second terminal member disposed on the second connector.

4. The first connector according to claim 3, wherein, The first terminal member has a second surface disposed in the third direction on a side opposite to the first surface. The first connector housing has a second wall extending from its top end toward the first direction. The second wall is disposed in the third direction on the side opposite to the first wall, separated from the first terminal member. The second wall has a third surface facing the second surface of the first terminal member in the third direction. The shortest distance L2 and the shortest distance L1 between the third surface of the second wall in the third direction and the second surface of the first terminal member satisfy the following formula: L2≤L1.

5. The first connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The plurality of the first terminal components are arranged along the third direction. The first wall is disposed in the third direction between the plurality of the first terminal members.

6. The first connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The assembly direction is a direction that extends parallel to the first direction. The first connector housing has: Zhoubi section; The protective part, located inside the peripheral wall portion, covers the portion of the first terminal member surrounding the direction orthogonal to the first direction, excluding the second direction; The first opening is an opening in the protective portion in the first direction; as well as The second opening is located in the protective portion and opens in the second direction.

7. The first connector according to claim 6, wherein, The protective portion has a pair of sidewalls that form the second opening. The first wall is one of the pair of sidewalls. The first protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of one of the sidewalls toward the first terminal member.

8. The first connector according to claim 6, wherein, The plurality of said first terminal members have two said first terminal members that are adjacent in the third direction. The protective portion includes: a first protective portion for protecting one of the two first terminal members; and a second protective portion for protecting the other of the two first terminal members. The first fitting portion has a first protrusion disposed on the first protective portion and a second protrusion disposed on the second protective portion. The first protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall of the first protective portion, which is disposed in the third direction between the two first terminal members, toward one of the first terminal members. The second protrusion protrudes from the inner surface of the sidewall of the second protective portion, which is disposed in the third direction between the two first terminal members, toward the other first terminal member.

9. The first connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first fitting portion has the first protrusion and a first recess recessed from the protruding top surface of the first protrusion. The first protrusion has a first inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. When the second connector is assembled with the first connector, the first inclined surface guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion toward the interior of the first recess.

10. The first connector according to claim 9, wherein, The first recess has a second inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. When the second inclined surface is assembled with the first connector, it guides the third protrusion of the second mating portion toward the interior of the first recess.

11. The first connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first connector housing has: The base portion retains the base end portion of the first terminal member; The first wall protrudes from the base toward the first direction; as well as The reinforcing part connects the base end of the first wall to the base.

12. A second connector, detachable from a first connector, said second connector having: Multiple second terminal components; The inner housing houses multiple of the second terminal components; and The outer shell houses the inner shell. The inner shell and the outer shell are separate components. The inner housing has a second fitting portion that engages with the first fitting portion disposed on the first connector. The second fitting portion engages with the first fitting portion in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector. The inner housing has a base and a terminal receiving portion extending from the base. The terminal housing section houses the second terminal component internally. The second fitting portion is disposed on the outer surface of the terminal receiving portion. The plurality of the second terminal components are arranged along a third direction intersecting the second direction, and when the first connector and the second connector are assembled, the first terminal components of the first connector are arranged along the third direction. The terminal storage portion has a first terminal storage portion and a second terminal storage portion disposed above the ground in the third direction, and the first terminal storage portion and the second terminal storage portion are not connected on the opposite side of the base in the second direction. The first terminal receiving portion has a first opposing surface that is opposite to the second terminal receiving portion in the third direction. The second terminal receiving portion has a second opposing surface that faces the first opposing surface. The second fitting portion has a third protrusion protruding from the first opposing surface toward the second opposing surface, and a fourth protrusion protruding from the second opposing surface toward the first opposing surface.

13. The second connector according to claim 12, wherein, The second fitting portion has a plurality of second protrusions and a plurality of second recesses arranged alternately in a second direction.

14. The second connector according to claim 12, wherein, The second fitting portion has the third protrusion and a second recess that is recessed from the protruding top surface of the third protrusion toward the first opposing surface. The third protrusion has a third inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. When the second connector is assembled with the first connector, the third inclined surface guides the first protrusion of the first mating portion toward the interior of the second recess.

15. The second connector according to claim 14, wherein, The second recess has a fourth inclined surface that is inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the assembly direction. The fourth inclined surface guides the first protrusion of the first mating portion toward the interior of the second recess when the second connector is assembled with the first connector.

16. A second connector, detachable from a first connector, said second connector having: Multiple second terminal components; The inner housing houses multiple of the second terminal components; and The outer shell houses the inner shell. The inner shell and the outer shell are separate components. The inner housing has a second fitting portion that engages with the first fitting portion disposed on the first connector. The second fitting portion engages with the first fitting portion in a second direction that intersects the assembly directions of the first connector and the second connector. The inner housing has a base and a terminal receiving portion extending from the base. The terminal housing section houses the second terminal component internally. The second fitting portion is disposed on the outer surface of the terminal receiving portion. The plurality of the second terminal components are arranged along a third direction intersecting the second direction. The terminal storage section has a first terminal storage section and a second terminal storage section disposed off the ground from the first terminal storage section in the third direction. The first terminal receiving portion has a first opposing surface that is opposite to the second terminal receiving portion in the third direction. The second terminal receiving portion has a second opposing surface that faces the first opposing surface. The second fitting portion has a third protrusion protruding from the first opposing surface toward the second opposing surface, and a fourth protrusion protruding from the second opposing surface toward the first opposing surface. It also has internal components assembled into the outer casing. The internal components support the inner housing inside the outer housing.

17. The second connector according to claim 16, wherein, The first terminal receiving portion and the second terminal receiving portion are formed as one unit through the base. The internal component contacts the base and supports the inner shell.

18. A connector assembly having a first connector according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and a second connector removable relative to the first connector according to any one of claims 12 to 17.

Images