Connector assembly

Abstract

A connector assembly includes a mating connector and a connector configured to be mounted on a target object. The mating connector is mateable from above in a vertical direction with the connector positioned below the mating connector. The connector includes a housing and a terminal. The terminal has a fixed portion, a held portion, a coupling portion, a support portion, and a contact point. The coupling portion couples the fixed portion and the held portion to each other. The coupling portion has a receiving portion. The support portion extends from the held portion and is elastically deformable. The support portion has an abutting portion. The abutting portion is positioned above the receiving portion in the vertical direction. In a mating state in which the connector and the mating connector are mated to each other, the abutting portion is in contact with the receiving portion. The connector assembly exhibits no change in movement of the terminal of the connector when the connector and the mating connector are mated to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector assembly including a mating connector and a connector configured for mounting on a target object. Background Technology

[0002] JPA2017-84736 (Patent Document 1) discloses a connector assembly 900 of this type. For example... Figure 33 As shown, connector assembly 900 includes connector 910 and mating connector 950. Mating connector 950 is mating from the positive Z-side of connector 910 with connector 910 located beyond mating connector 950 in the negative Z-direction. Mating connector 950 includes mating housing 952 and mating terminal 954. Mating housing 952 holds mating terminal 954. Figure 34 As shown, connector 910 includes a housing 920 and terminals 930. The housing 920 holds terminals 930. Figure 35 As shown, each terminal 930 has a fixed portion 932, a retained portion 934, a support portion 936, and a contact point 938. The fixed portion 932 is configured to be fixed to a target object (not shown). The retained portion 934 is held by the housing 920. The support portion 936 extends from the retained portion 934 and is elastically deformable. The contact point 938 is supported by the support portion 936. The contact point 938 contacts the mating terminal 954 in a mating state where the connector 910 and the mating connector 950 are mated together.

[0003] In the connector 910 of the connector assembly 900 in Patent Document 1, the negative Z-side of the support portion 936 of the terminal 930 is not covered by the housing 920. Therefore, when the connector 910 is mounted on a target object, the support portion 936 of the terminal 930 and the target object face each other in the Z-direction. Due to manufacturing variations of the housing 920 or assembly variations of each connector 910, differences arise between the connectors 910 in the distance between the support portion 936 of the terminal 930 and the target object when the connector 910 is mounted on the target object. Therefore, when the mating connector 950 mates with the connector 910 mounted on the target object, the presence or absence of contact between the support portion 936 of the terminal 930 and the target object may result in the connector 910 differing from other connectors 910. Furthermore, even when the mating connector 950 mates with the connector 910 mounted on the target object, the timing of the contact between the support portion 936 of the terminal 930 in each connector 910 and the target object may differ from the timing of the other connectors 910. In other words, when the mating connector 950 mates with the connector 910 mounted on the target object, each connector 910 exhibits a change in the movement of the terminal 930. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a connector assembly that exhibits no change in the movement of the connector terminals when the connector is mated with a mating connector.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] This invention provides a connector assembly including a mating connector and a connector configured for mounting on a target object. The mating connector is capable of mating vertically from above with a connector positioned below it. The mating connector includes a mating housing and mating terminals. The mating housing holds the mating terminals. The connector includes a housing and terminals. The housing holds the terminals. The terminals have a fixed portion, a held portion, a connecting portion, a support portion, and a contact point. The fixed portion is configured to be fixed to the target object. The held portion is held by the housing. The connecting portion connects the fixed portion and the held portion to each other. The connecting portion has a receiving portion. The support portion extends from the held portion and is elastically deformable. The support portion has an abutment portion. The abutment portion is positioned vertically above the receiving portion. In a mated state where the connector and the mating connector are mated, the abutment portion contacts the receiving portion. The contact point is supported by the support portion. The contact point contacts the mating terminals in the mated state.

[0007] The connector assembly of the present invention is configured as follows: the connector terminals have a connecting portion and a supporting portion; the connecting portion has a receiving portion; the supporting portion has an abutting portion; and the abutting portion contacts the receiving portion in a mating state where the connector and the mating connector are mated together. Therefore, when the connector and the mating connector are mated together, the connector assembly of the present invention does not exhibit any change during the movement of the connector terminals. Due to the above advantages, the present invention can be applied to connector assemblies including so-called plug-in connectors. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of the connector assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the connector and the mating connector are in an unmatched state where the connector and the mating connector do not match each other.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The lower perspective view of the connector assembly is shown.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A bottom schematic diagram of the connector assembly is shown.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A sectional view along line AA of the connector assembly is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a top perspective view of the connector assembly. In this view, the connector and the mating connector are in a pre-established contact state.

[0013] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A bottom schematic diagram of the connector assembly is shown.

[0014] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The connector assembly is shown in a BB-direction cross-sectional view.

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The enlarged view shown is of the portion enclosed by the dashed line C.

[0016] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a top perspective view of the connector assembly. In this view, the connector and mating connector are in a mating state where the connector and mating connector are matched with each other.

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A bottom schematic diagram of the connector assembly is shown.

[0018] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The connector assembly is shown in a DD-direction cross-sectional view.

[0019] Figure 12 It consists of the target object and Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an electronic device comprising connectors included in a connector assembly. In this view, the connectors are mounted on a target object.

[0020] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the bottom of the electronic device is shown.

[0021] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The electronic device shown is a cross-sectional view along the EE direction.

[0022] Figure 15 Is included Figure 12 A perspective view of the front row of terminals in the connector is shown.

[0023] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A bottom view of the terminals is shown.

[0024] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The terminal shown is in FF section view.

[0025] Figure 18This is a perspective view of an electronic device consisting of a target object and a connector included in the connector assembly of the second embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the connector is mounted on the target object.

[0026] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the bottom of the electronic device is shown.

[0027] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electronic device along the GG direction.

[0028] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of an electronic device consisting of a target object and a connector included in the connector assembly of the third embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the connector is mounted on the target object.

[0029] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the bottom of the electronic device is shown.

[0030] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electronic device along the HH direction.

[0031] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the connector and the mating connector are in an unmatched state where the connector and the mating connector do not match each other.

[0032] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A bottom schematic diagram of the connector assembly is shown.

[0033] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in direction II.

[0034] Figure 27 It consists of the target object and Figure 24 This is a perspective view of an electronic device comprising connectors included in a connector assembly. In this view, the connectors are mounted on a target object.

[0035] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 A schematic diagram of the bottom of the electronic device is shown.

[0036] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 The electronic device shown is a cross-sectional view along the JJ direction.

[0037] Figure 30 It is a 3D view of the modified terminal.

[0038] Figure 31 yes Figure 30A top view of the terminals is shown.

[0039] Figure 32 yes Figure 30 A side view of the terminal is shown.

[0040] Figure 33 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Patent Document 1.

[0041] Figure 34 Is included Figure 33 A bottom view of the connector in the connector assembly is shown.

[0042] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the connector is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0043] [First Embodiment]

[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 12 As shown, the connector assembly 600 of the first embodiment of the present invention includes a mating connector 500 and a connector 100 configured to be mounted on a target object 700. The target object 700 in this embodiment is a circuit board. The connector 100 and the target object 700 form an electronic device 800.

[0045] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 11 In this embodiment, the mating connector 500 is mated to the connector 100 from above, and the connector 100 is positioned below the mating connector 500 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the vertical direction is the Z direction. Specifically, upward is the positive Z direction, and downward is the negative Z direction. The mating connector 500 includes a mating housing 520 and a plurality of mating terminals 530. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of mating terminals 530 may be one.

[0046] See Figure 4 In this embodiment, the mating housing 520 is made of an insulator. The mating housing 520 holds the mating terminal 530. The mating housing 520 has a receiving portion 522.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the receiving portion 522 in this embodiment is a recessed portion that is recessed upward in the vertical direction.

[0048] Reference Figure 4 In this embodiment, each mating terminal 530 is made of metal. For example... Figure 1As shown, the mating terminals 530 are arranged in two rows along a first horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the first horizontal direction is the X direction. The first horizontal direction is also called the front-to-back direction. Specifically, assume that forward is the positive X direction and backward is the negative X direction. The mating terminals 530 in each row are arranged along a second horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the second horizontal direction is the Y direction. Figure 4 As shown, a portion of each mating terminal 530 is exposed in the receiving portion 522.

[0049] like Figure 12 As shown, the connector 100 of this embodiment includes a housing 200 and a plurality of terminals 300. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of terminals 300 may be one.

[0050] Reference Figure 14 In this embodiment, the housing 200 is made of an insulator. The housing 200 holds the terminals 300. Figure 4 and Figure 11 As shown, when connector 100 and mating connector 500 mate with each other, a portion of housing 200 is accommodated in receiving portion 522 of mating connector 500. Figure 4 and Figure 12 As shown, the housing 200 has a plurality of terminal receiving portions 210 and a plurality of connection guide surfaces 220. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of connection guide surfaces 220 may be two.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, each terminal receiving portion 210 in this embodiment opens downward in the vertical direction. Each terminal receiving portion 210 opens outward in a first horizontal direction. Specifically, each terminal receiving portion 210 has an opening 212 positioned at the outer end of the terminal receiving portion 210 in the first horizontal direction. Each terminal receiving portion 210 has a holding portion 214. In other words, the housing 200 has a plurality of holding portions 214.

[0052] refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the retaining portion 214 is a set of grooves located at opposite ends of the terminal receiving portion 210 in the second horizontal direction.

[0053] like Figure 12 As shown, each connection guide surface 220 in this embodiment extends in a plane defined by a vertical direction and a second horizontal direction. Each connection guide surface 220 is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. The two connection guide surfaces 220 are located on opposite sides of the opening 212 along the second horizontal direction.

[0054] Reference Figure 15 In this embodiment, each terminal 300 is made of metal. For example... Figure 4 As shown, each terminal 300 is held by the housing 200. Figure 3 As shown, the terminals 300 are arranged in two rows along the first horizontal direction, namely the front row and the back row. The terminals 300 in each row are arranged along the second horizontal direction.

[0055] like Figure 17 As shown, each terminal 300 in this embodiment has a fixed part 310, a holding part 320, a connecting part 330, a supporting part 340, and a contact point 360.

[0056] Reference Figure 17 In the first horizontal direction, the fixed portion 310 of this embodiment extends outward from the outer end of the connecting portion 330. The fixed portion 310 defines the lower end of the terminal 300 in the vertical direction. The fixed portion 310 defines the outer end of the terminal 300 in the first horizontal direction. Figure 14 As shown, the fixed part is configured to be fixed to the target object 700.

[0057] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the held portion 320 defines the inner end of the terminal 300 in the first horizontal direction. The held portion 320 extends upward from the connecting portion 330 in the vertical direction. Figure 4 As shown, the held portion 320 is held by the housing 200. Specifically, the held portion 320 is held by the holding portion 214. More specifically, the held portion 320 is press-fitted into the holding portion 214.

[0058] See Figure 4 In this embodiment, the connecting portion 330 extends from the held portion 320 in a first direction along a first horizontal direction. The connecting portion 330 extends from the fixed portion 310 in a second direction along the first horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the first direction starting from the contact point 360 is away from the held portion 320, while the second direction starting from the contact point 360 is towards the held portion 320. In other words, the first direction is outward in the first horizontal direction, and the second direction is inward in the first horizontal direction. Specifically, in the front row of terminals 300, the first direction is forward, and the second direction is backward. In addition, in the rear row of terminals 300, the first direction is backward, and the second direction is forward. The connecting portion 330 connects the fixed portion 310 and the held portion 320 to each other. The connecting portion 330 has a receiving portion 332.

[0059] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the receiving portion 332 is positioned around the end of the connecting portion 330 in a first position. The receiving portion 332 is a surface facing upward in the vertical direction.

[0060] See Figure 3The housing 200 does not have a bottom surface located directly below the connector 330. In other words, the connector 330 is visible when the connector 100 is viewed from below in the vertical direction. This reduces the height of the connector 100 in this embodiment compared to the idea that the housing 200 would have a bottom surface located directly below the connector 330.

[0061] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the support portion 340 extends from the held portion 320. The support portion 340 is elastically deformable. The support portion 340 has a first portion 341 and a second portion 343.

[0062] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the first part 341 defines the upper end of the support part 340 in the vertical direction. The first part 341 extends from the held part 320 in a first orientation and bends downward, further bending downward in the first orientation. The first part 341 is a certain distance away from the connecting part 330, and this distance increases toward the held part 320. The first part 341 has an abutting part 342. In other words, the support part 340 has an abutting part 342.

[0063] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the abutment portion 342 is located at the end of the first portion 341 in a first orientation. The abutment portion 342 is positioned between the held portion 320 and the fixed portion 310 along a first horizontal direction. Compared to being close to the held portion 320, the abutment portion 342 is closer to the contact point 360 in the first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The abutment portion 342 is positioned above the receiving portion 332 in the vertical direction. In the vertical direction, the abutment portion 342 protrudes downward and defines the lowermost position of the support portion 340. Since the support portion 340 is elastically deformable as described above, the abutment portion 342 is movable downward in the vertical direction.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, in the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, the abutment portion 342 is positioned beyond the connection guide surface 220 in a first orientation along a first horizontal direction. In this unmatched state, the abutment portion 342 does not contact the receiving portion 332. In other words, in the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, connector 100 has a gap GP between the abutment portion 342 and the receiving portion 332. (Refer to...) Figure 4 and Figure 14 The size of the gap GP is smaller than the thickness of the target object 700.

[0065] like Figure 11As shown, in the mating state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are mated, the abutment portion 342 contacts the receiving portion 332. As described above, the receiving portion 332 is provided on the connecting portion 330 where the fixing portion 310 and the retaining portion 320 are connected. The fixing portion 310 is configured to be fixed to the target object 700, and the retaining portion 320 is held by the housing 200. Therefore, the relative position of the receiving portion 332 in the terminal 300 remains almost unchanged. Therefore, when connector 100 and mating connector 500 are mated, the abutment portion 342 can reliably contact the receiving portion 332.

[0066] As described above, in the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, connector 100 has a gap GP between the abutment portion 342 and the receiving portion 332 that is less than the thickness of the target object 700. Therefore, when connector 100 and mating connector 500 are mated, the abutment portion 342 contacts the receiving portion 332 in an early stage of the mating process, thus preventing downward movement of contact point 360. In other words, when connector 100 and mating connector 500 are mated, contact point 360 moves a short distance in the vertical direction. Therefore, the connector assembly 600 of this embodiment can have an increased effective contact length between connector 100 and mating connector 500. This also reduces the size of connector 100 required to achieve the desired effective contact length in the vertical direction. Therefore, connector assembly 600 can have a reduced height.

[0067] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the second part 343 extends upward from the first part 341 in a vertical direction. Specifically, the second part 343 bends from the first part 341 and extends upward and toward a second position, and further bends and extends upward and toward a first position.

[0068] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the contact point 360 is located at the upper end of the second part 343. The contact point 360 is supported by the support part 340. (Refer to...) Figure 4 In the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, contact point 360 is movable along a first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. Contact point 360 is oriented towards a first position in the first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, wherein the first position originating from contact point 360 is away from the held portion 320. Specifically, the position that contact point 360 should move in the initial state is a second position opposite to the first position. In the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, contact point 360 is positioned in the first position beyond either connection guide surface 220. Figure 11As shown, in the mating state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are mated to each other, contact point 360 contacts mating terminal 530.

[0069] like Figure 17 As shown, the fixed part 310, the retained part 320, and the contact point 360 are located on a common line parallel to the first horizontal direction. In other words, the fixed part 310, the retained part 320, and the contact point 360 are located at the same position in the second horizontal direction.

[0070] like Figure 17 As shown, terminal 300 also has a protrusion 350.

[0071] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the protrusion 350 is formed on the support portion 340. More specifically, the protrusion 350 is formed on the second portion 343. The protrusion 350 is positioned beyond the contact point 360 in a first position in the first horizontal direction. The abutment portion 342 is positioned beyond the protrusion 350 in a second position in the first horizontal direction. The receiving portion 332 is positioned beyond the protrusion 350 in a second position in the first horizontal direction.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, in the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 do not match each other, protrusion 350 protrudes along a first orientation. In the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 do not match each other, protrusion 350 is positioned along the first orientation beyond either connection guide surface 220.

[0073] like Figure 17 As shown, terminal 300 also has a guide portion 370.

[0074] like Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the guide portion 370 is located above the contact point 360 in the vertical direction. The guide portion 370 extends in a second position in the first horizontal direction and rises in the vertical direction, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position. Figure 12 As shown, the two connecting guide surfaces 220 are located on opposite outer sides of the guide portion 370 in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the first horizontal direction. Figure 17 As shown, the guide portion 370 has a curved surface 372.

[0075] like Figure 17 As shown, the curved surface 372 of this embodiment has an R-shape that protrudes upward and toward the first direction. As... Figure 4 As shown, the curved surface 372 is located in the same position as the connecting guide surface 220 in the first horizontal direction.

[0076] The force applied to terminal 300 when connector 100 mates with mating connector 500, and the torque generated on terminal 300 when they mate, will be described in detail below.

[0077] First, connector 100 and mating connector 500, as Figure 4 The arrangement is shown. In this state, the mating connector 500 moves so that the connector 100 and the mating connector 500 approach each other in the vertical direction. Then, the mating terminal 530 contacts the guide portion 370 of the terminal 300, initiating the mating between the connector 100 and the mating connector 500.

[0078] In this state, the mating connector 500 moves further, bringing the connector 100 and the mating connector 500 closer together in the vertical direction. Then, the mating terminal 530 moves on the guide portion 370 while simultaneously pushing the entire terminal 300 downwards, causing the abutment portion 342 to press against the receiving portion 332. Therefore, the connector 100 and the mating connector 500 generate... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The contact state is set as shown.

[0079] In the set contact state, the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370 are in contact with each other at the set contact position SP. At this time, the curved surface 372 of the guide portion 370 of the terminal 300 is located at the set contact position SP.

[0080] The above process can be summarized as follows: During the middle of the mating process between the mating connector 500 and the connector 100, the mating terminal 530 moves on the guide portion 370, and at the same time, the mating terminal 530 pushes the entire terminal 300 downward, and the abutment portion 342 begins to press against the receiving portion 332; when the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370 are pressed against the receiving portion 332, they come into contact with each other at the set contact position SP.

[0081] In the set contact state, the guide portion 370 receives a force from the mating terminal 530 that is oriented perpendicular to the contact surface where the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370 are in contact with each other. This force is called the vertical force VF. In other words, in the set contact position SP, the guide portion 370 receives a vertical force VF from the mating terminal 530 that is oriented perpendicular to the contact surface where the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370 are in contact with each other.

[0082] In the set contact state, the guide portion 370 receives another force caused by the friction between the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370. This force is called the frictional force FF. In other words, when the mating terminal 530 moves on the guide portion 370, the guide portion 370 receives the frictional force FF caused by the friction between the mating terminal 530 and the guide portion 370 at the set contact position SP.

[0083] In summary, under the set contact state, the guide portion 370 receives the combined force JF of the vertical force VF and the frictional force FF. The line of action EL of the combined force JF intersects the connecting portion 330 at the reference point RP.

[0084] In the set contact state, the contact part 342 is positioned beyond the reference point RP in the first position of the first horizontal direction.

[0085] As described above, in the set contact state, the guide portion 370 receives the bonding force JF, while the abutment portion 342 is positioned beyond the reference point RP in the first orientation. Therefore, see Figure 8 A torque M relative to the abutment portion 342 is generated at the set contact position SP, and this torque M causes the guide portion 370 to move in a second direction. In other words, the connector 100 of this embodiment is configured such that the torque M relative to the abutment portion 342 at the set contact position SP points in a second direction.

[0086] As described above, in the initial state, the contact point 360 should move to the second position. A torque M relative to the abutment portion 342 is generated at the set contact position SP, and the torque M moves the guide portion 370 in the second position. Therefore, the connector 100 of this embodiment is configured such that the position in which the contact point 360 should move in the initial state coincides with the position of the torque M relative to the abutment portion 342 at the set contact position SP. Therefore, when the connector 100 mates with the mating connector 500, the connector 100 of this embodiment prevents an increase in contact pressure between the mating terminal 530 and the terminal 300. Therefore, when the connector 100 mates with the mating connector 500, the connector 100 of this embodiment prevents the terminal 300 from bending.

[0087] [Second Embodiment]

[0088] Reference Figure 18 The connector assembly (not shown) of the second embodiment of the present invention has the same characteristics as the connector assembly 600 of the first embodiment described above (see...). Figure 1 A similar structure. Therefore, in Figures 18 to 20 In the components shown, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment. The directions and orientations in this embodiment will be described using the same terminology as in the first embodiment.

[0089] Reference Figure 18The connector assembly of this embodiment includes a mating connector (not shown) and a connector 100A configured to be mounted on a target object 700A having an opening 710. The target object 700A in this embodiment is a circuit board. The connector 100A and the target object 700A form an electronic device 800A. The mating connector of this embodiment has the same structure as the mating connector 500 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0090] like Figure 18 As shown, the connector 100A of this embodiment includes a housing 200 and a plurality of terminals 300A. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of terminals 300A may be one. The housing 200 has the same structure as in the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0091] Reference Figure 20 In this embodiment, each terminal 300A is made of metal. For example... Figure 19 As shown, each terminal 300A is held by the housing 200. The terminals 300A are arranged in two rows along a first horizontal direction, namely the front row and the rear row. Each terminal 300A in each row is arranged along a second horizontal direction.

[0092] like Figure 20 As shown, each terminal 300A has a fixed portion 310, a retaining portion 320, a connecting portion 330A, a supporting portion 340, and a contact point 360. Except for the connecting portion 330A, the terminal 300A has a structure similar to that of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0093] See Figure 20 In this embodiment, the connecting portion 330A extends from the held portion 320 in a first position along a first horizontal direction. More specifically, the connecting portion 330A extends from the held portion 320 in the first position, and bends upward, further bending towards the first position. The connecting portion 330A extends from the fixed portion 310 in a second position along the first horizontal direction. More specifically, the connecting portion 330A extends from the fixed portion 310 in a second direction, and bends downward, further bending towards the second position. The connecting portion 330A connects the fixed portion 310 and the held portion 320 to each other. The connecting portion 330A has a receiving portion 332.

[0094] like Figure 20 As shown, when the connector 100A of this embodiment is installed on the target object 700A, a portion of the connector 100A is located in the opening 710 of the target object 700A. In other words, the connector 100A of this embodiment is a so-called plug-in connector. The connector 100A of this embodiment is configured such that the fixed portion 310 is positioned in the vertical direction above either the receiving portion 332 or the abutting portion 342.

[0095] The force applied to terminal 300A when connector 100A mates with mating connector, and the torque generated on terminal 300A during mating, are similar to those in the first embodiment described above. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0096] The connector assembly in this embodiment also has similar effects to the first embodiment described above.

[0097] [Third Embodiment]

[0098] Reference Figure 21 The connector assembly (not shown) of the third embodiment of the present invention has the same characteristics as the connector assembly 600 of the first embodiment described above (see...). Figure 1 A similar structure. Therefore, in Figures 21 to 23 In the components shown, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment. The directions and orientations in this embodiment will be described using the same terminology as in the first embodiment.

[0099] Reference Figure 21 The connector assembly of this embodiment includes a mating connector (not shown) and a connector 100B, which is configured to be mounted on a target object 700B having a plurality of through holes 720. The target object 700B in this embodiment is a circuit board. Each through hole 720 extends through the target object 700B in the vertical direction. The connector 100B and the target object 700B form an electronic device 800B. The mating connector of this embodiment has the same structure as the mating connector 500 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0100] like Figure 23 As shown, the connector 100B of this embodiment includes a housing 200 and a plurality of terminals 300B. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of terminals 300B may be one. The housing 200 has the same structure as in the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0101] Reference Figure 23 In this embodiment, each terminal 300B is made of metal. Each terminal 300B is held by the housing 200. The terminals 300B are arranged in two rows along a first horizontal direction, namely a front row and a rear row. Each terminal 300B in each row is arranged along a second horizontal direction.

[0102] like Figure 23 As shown, each terminal 300B in this embodiment has a fixed portion 310B, a retaining portion 320, a connecting portion 330, a supporting portion 340, and a contact point 360. Except for the fixed portion 310B, the terminal 300B has a structure similar to that of the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0103] like Figure 23 As shown, in this embodiment, the fixing portion 310B extends downward in the vertical direction from the outer end of the connecting portion 330 along a first horizontal direction. The fixing portion 310B defines the lower end of the terminal 300B in the vertical direction. The fixing portion 310B defines the outer end of the terminal 300B in the first horizontal direction. When the connector 100B is installed on the target object 700B, the fixing portion 310B is inserted into the through hole 720 of the target object 700B to fix it thereto.

[0104] The force applied to terminal 300B when connector 100B mates with mating connector, and the torque generated on terminal 300B when they mate, are similar to those in the first embodiment described above. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0105] The connector assembly in this embodiment also has similar effects to the first embodiment described above.

[0106] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0107] like Figure 24 and Figure 27 As shown, the connector assembly 600C of the fourth embodiment of the present invention includes a mating connector 500C and a connector 100C configured to be mounted on a target object 700C. In this embodiment, the target object 700C is a circuit board. The connector 100C and the target object 700C form an electronic device 800C.

[0108] Reference Figure 26 In this embodiment, the mating connector 500C is mated to the connector 100C from above, and the connector 100C is positioned below the mating connector 500C in the vertical direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the vertical direction is the Z-direction. Specifically, upward is the positive Z-direction, and downward is the negative Z-direction. The mating connector 500C includes a mating housing 520C and a plurality of mating terminals 530C. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of mating terminals 530C may be one.

[0109] See Figure 26 In this embodiment, the mating housing 520C is made of an insulator. The mating housing 520C holds each mating terminal 530C. The mating housing 520C has an island-shaped portion 524. The island-shaped portion 524 extends downward in the vertical direction. The island-shaped portion 524 defines the lower end of the mating housing 520C in the vertical direction.

[0110] Reference Figure 26 In this embodiment, each mating terminal 530C is made of metal. For example... Figure 24As shown, the mating terminals 530C are arranged in two rows along a first horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the first horizontal direction is the X direction. The first horizontal direction is also called the front-back direction. Specifically, it is assumed that forward is the positive X direction and backward is the negative X direction. The mating terminals 530C in each row are arranged along a second horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the second horizontal direction is the Y direction. A portion of each mating terminal 530C is exposed to the outside of the mating connector 500C from the outer end of the island portion 524 in the first horizontal direction.

[0111] like Figure 26 As shown, the connector 100C in this embodiment includes a housing 200C and a plurality of terminals 300C. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of terminals 300C may be one.

[0112] See Figure 26 In this embodiment, the housing 200C is made of an insulator. The housing 200C holds each terminal 300C. Figure 27 As shown, the housing 200C has an enclosure portion 202 and a connector-side receiving portion 204.

[0113] like Figure 27 As shown, in this embodiment, the surrounding portion 202 defines the outer end of the housing 200C in a first horizontal direction. The surrounding portion 202 also defines the outer end of the housing 200C in a second horizontal direction. The surrounding portion 202 surrounds the connector-side receiving portion 204 in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, the surrounding portion 202 has a plurality of terminal receiving portions 210C and a plurality of connection guiding surfaces 220C. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the number of connection guiding surfaces 220C may be two.

[0114] like Figure 26 As shown, in this embodiment, each terminal receiving portion 210C opens downwards in the vertical direction. Each terminal receiving portion 210C communicates with the connector-side receiving portion 204 along a first horizontal direction. Each terminal receiving portion 210C opens inwards along the first horizontal direction. Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, each terminal receiving portion 210C has an opening 212C, which is located at its inner end in a first horizontal direction. Figure 26 As shown, each terminal receiving portion 210C has a retaining portion 214C. In other words, the housing 200C has a plurality of retaining portions 214C.

[0115] See Figure 26 In this embodiment, the retaining portion 214C is a set of grooves located at opposite ends of the terminal receiving portion 210C in the second horizontal direction.

[0116] like Figure 27 As shown, each connection guide surface 220C in this embodiment extends in a plane defined by a vertical direction and a second horizontal direction. Each connection guide surface 220C is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. The two connection guide surfaces 220C are located on opposite sides of the opening 212C along the second horizontal direction.

[0117] like Figure 26 As shown, the connector-side receiving portion 204 in this embodiment is a recessed portion that is recessed downwards in the vertical direction. When the connector 100C and the mating connector 500C mate with each other, a portion of the mating connector 500C is received in the connector-side receiving portion 204 of the connector 100C. Specifically, when the connector 100C and the mating connector 500C mate with each other, the island-shaped portion 524 of the mating connector 500C is received in the connector-side receiving portion 204 of the connector 100C.

[0118] Reference Figure 29 In this embodiment, each terminal 300C is made of metal. Each terminal 300C is held by a housing 200C. Figure 25 As shown, the terminals 300C are arranged in two rows along the first horizontal direction, namely the front row and the back row. The terminals 300C in each row are arranged along the second horizontal direction.

[0119] like Figure 29 As shown, each terminal 300C in this embodiment has a fixed part 310, a holding part 320C, a connecting part 330C, a supporting part 340C, and a contact point 360C.

[0120] See Figure 29 In this embodiment, the fixed part 310 is configured to be fixed to the target object 700C. The fixed part 310 has the same structure as in the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0121] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the held portion 320C extends upward from the connecting portion 330C in the vertical direction. The held portion 320C is held by the housing 200C. Specifically, the held portion 320C is held by the holding portion 214C. More specifically, the held portion 320C is press-fitted into the holding portion 214C.

[0122] See Figure 29In this embodiment, the connecting portion 330C extends from the held portion 320C in a first position along a first horizontal direction and bends to extend in a second position along the first horizontal direction. The connecting portion 330C extends from the fixed portion 310 in a first position along a first horizontal direction and bends to extend in a second position along the first horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the first position starting from the contact point 360C is away from the held portion 320C, while the second position starting from the contact point 360C is towards the held portion 320C. In other words, the first position is inward in the first horizontal direction, and the second position is outward in the first horizontal direction. Specifically, in the front row of terminals 300C, the first position is rearward, and the second position is forward. Additionally, in the rear row of terminals 300C, the first position is forward, and the second position is rearward. The connecting portion 330C connects the fixed portion 310 and the held portion 320C to each other. The connecting portion 330C has a receiving portion 332C.

[0123] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the receiving portion 332C is positioned around the end of the connecting portion 330C in a first position. The receiving portion 332C is a surface facing upward in the vertical direction.

[0124] See Figure 25 The housing 200C does not have a bottom surface located directly below the connector 330C. In other words, the connector 330C is visible when viewed from below in a vertical direction. This reduces the height of the connector 100C in this embodiment compared to the assumption that the housing 200C has a bottom surface located directly below the connector 330C.

[0125] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the support portion 340C extends from the held portion 320C. The support portion 340C is elastically deformable. The support portion 340C has a first portion 341C and a second portion 343C.

[0126] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the first part 341C defines the upper end of the support part 340C in the vertical direction. The first part 341C extends from the held part 320C in a first position and bends downward, further bending and extending downward in the first position. The distance of the first part 341C from the connecting part 330C increases toward the held part 320C. The first part 341C has an abutting part 342C. In other words, the support part 340C has an abutting part 342C.

[0127] like Figure 29As shown, in this embodiment, the abutment portion 342C is located at the end of the first portion 341C in a first orientation. Compared to the portion being held 320C, the abutment portion 342C is closer to the contact point 360C in a first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The abutment portion 342C is positioned above the receiving portion 332C in the vertical direction. In the vertical direction, the abutment portion 342C protrudes downward and defines the lowermost position of the support portion 340C. Since the support portion 340C is elastically deformable as described above, the abutment portion 342C is movable downward in the vertical direction.

[0128] like Figure 26 As shown, in the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C are not mated, the abutment portion 342C is positioned beyond the connection guide surface 220C in a first orientation along a first horizontal direction. In the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C are not mated, the abutment portion 342C does not contact the receiving portion 332C. In other words, in the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C are not mated, connector 100C has a gap GPC between the abutment portion 342C and the receiving portion 332C. (Refer to...) Figure 26 and Figure 29 The size of the gap GPC is smaller than the thickness of the target object 700C.

[0129] See Figure 26 In the mating state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C are mated, the abutment portion 342C contacts the receiving portion 332C. As described above, the receiving portion 332C is provided on the connecting portion 330C, which connects the fixed portion 310, configured to be fixed to the target object 700C, with the held portion 320C held by the housing 200C. Therefore, the relative position of the receiving portion 332C in the terminal 300C remains almost unchanged. Therefore, when connector 100C and mating connector 500C are mated, the abutment portion 342C can reliably contact the receiving portion 332C.

[0130] As described above, in the unmatched state where connector 100 and mating connector 500 are not mated, connector 100C has a gap GPC between the abutment portion 342C and the receiving portion 332C that is smaller than the thickness of the target object 700C. Therefore, when connector 100C and mating connector 500C mate, the abutment portion 342C contacts the receiving portion 332C earlier in the mating process, thus preventing the contact point 360C from moving downward. In other words, when connector 100C and mating connector 500C mate, the contact point 360C moves a short distance in the vertical direction. Therefore, the connector assembly 600C of this embodiment can have an increased effective contact length between connector 100C and mating connector 500C.

[0131] like Figure 26 As shown, in this embodiment, the second part 343C extends upward from the first part 341C in a vertical direction. Specifically, the second part 343C bends upward from the first part 341C and extends toward a second position, and further bends upward and extends toward a first position.

[0132] like Figure 26 As shown, in this embodiment, contact point 360C is located at the upper end of the second part 343C. Contact point 360C is supported by support part 340C. In the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C do not match each other, contact point 360C is movable in a first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. Contact point 360C is oriented towards a first position in the first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, wherein the first position starting from contact point 360C is away from the held part 320C. Specifically, in the initial state, the position in which contact point 360C should move is a second position opposite to the first position. In the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C do not match each other, contact point 360C is positioned beyond either connection guide surface 220C in the first position. In the matched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C match each other, contact point 360C contacts mating terminal 530C.

[0133] like Figure 29 As shown, the fixed part 310, the retained part 320C, and the contact point 360C are located on a common line parallel to the first horizontal direction. In other words, the fixed part 310, the retained part 320C, and the contact point 360C are located at the same position in the second horizontal direction.

[0134] like Figure 29 As shown, terminal 300C also has a protrusion 350C.

[0135] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the protrusion 350C is formed on the support portion 340C. More specifically, the protrusion 350C is formed on the second portion 343C. The protrusion 350C is positioned beyond the contact point 360C in a first position in the first horizontal direction. The abutment portion 342C is positioned beyond the protrusion 350C in a second position in the first horizontal direction. The receiving portion 332C is positioned beyond the protrusion 350C in a second position in the first horizontal direction.

[0136] like Figure 26 As shown, in the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C do not match each other, protrusion 350C protrudes along a first orientation. In the unmatched state where connector 100C and mating connector 500C do not match each other, protrusion 350C is positioned along the first orientation beyond either connection guide surface 220C.

[0137] like Figure 29 As shown, terminal 300C also has a guide portion 370C.

[0138] like Figure 29 As shown, in this embodiment, the guide portion 370C is located above the contact point 360C in the vertical direction. The guide portion 370C extends in a second position in the first horizontal direction and rises in the vertical direction, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position. Figure 27 As shown, the two connecting guide surfaces 220C are located on opposite outer sides of the guide portion 370C in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to both the vertical direction and the first horizontal direction. Figure 29 As shown, the guide portion 370C has a curved surface 372C.

[0139] like Figure 29 As shown, the curved surface 372C in this embodiment is an R-shape that protrudes upwards and toward the first orientation. The curved surface 372C is located at the same position as the connecting guide surface 220C in the first horizontal direction.

[0140] The force applied to terminal 300C when connector 100C mates with mating connector 500C, and the torque generated on terminal 300C when they mate, are substantially similar to those in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0141] The connector assembly 600C in this embodiment also has similar effects to the first embodiment described above.

[0142] The configuration of terminals 300, 300A, 300B, and 300C of connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C is not limited to this, and can be modified as follows.

[0143] Reference Figures 30 to 32 The modified terminal 300D has a fixed portion 310, a retaining portion 320, a connecting portion 330D, a supporting portion 340D, and a contact point 360D. The fixed portion 310 and the retaining portion 320 of this modification have a structure similar to the fixed portion 310 and the retaining portion 320 of the terminal 300 of the above embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0144] like Figure 32 As shown, in this variant, the connecting portion 330D extends from the fixed portion 310 to the retained portion 320. The connecting portion 330D connects the fixed portion 310 and the retained portion 320 to each other. The connecting portion 330D has a receiving portion 332D.

[0145] like Figure 32As shown, the receiving part 332D of this variant is a surface facing upward in the vertical direction. The receiving part 332D is provided on the connecting part 330D that connects the fixed part 310 and the held part 320. The fixed part 310 is configured to be fixed to the target object (not shown), and the held part 320 is held by the housing (not shown).

[0146] like Figure 32 As shown, in this variant, the support portion 340D extends from the held portion 320. The support portion 340D is elastically deformable. The support portion 340D has an abutment portion 342D.

[0147] like Figure 32 As shown, in this variant, the abutting portion 342D is positioned between the held portion 320 and the fixed portion 310 along a first horizontal direction. The abutting portion 342D is located above the receiving portion 332D in the vertical direction. In the vertical direction, the abutting portion 342D protrudes downward and defines the lowermost position of the support portion 340D. Since the support portion 340D is elastically deformable as described above, the abutting portion 342D can move downward in the vertical direction.

[0148] See Figure 32 In the unmatched state where the connector (not shown) including terminal 300D and the mating connector (not shown) do not match each other, the abutment portion 342D does not contact the receiving portion 332D. In other words, in the unmatched state where the connector (not shown) including terminal 300D and the mating connector do not match each other, the connector has a gap GPD between the abutment portion 342D and the receiving portion 332D.

[0149] See Figure 32 In the mating state where the connector including terminal 300D and the mating connector are mated together, the abutment portion 342D contacts the receiving portion 332D. As described above, the receiving portion 332D is provided on the connecting portion 330D that connects the fixed portion 310 and the retained portion 320. The fixed portion 310 is configured to be fixed to a target object (not shown), and the retained portion 320 is held by a housing (not shown). Therefore, the relative position of the receiving portion 332D in terminal 300D remains almost unchanged. Therefore, when the connector including terminal 300D and the mating connector are mated together, the abutment portion 342D can reliably contact the receiving portion 332D.

[0150] like Figure 32As shown, the contact point 360D of this variant is supported by the support portion 340D. In the unmatured state, where the connector including terminal 300D and the mating connector are not mated, the contact point 360D is movable in a first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The contact point 360D faces a second orientation perpendicular to the first horizontal direction, wherein the second orientation starting from the contact point 360D faces the holding portion 320. Specifically, in the initial state, the orientation in which the contact point 360D should move is the first orientation opposite to the second orientation. In the mated state, where the connector including terminal 300D and the mating connector are mated, the contact point 360D contacts the mating terminal (not shown).

[0151] like Figure 32 As shown, terminal 300D also has guide portion 370D.

[0152] like Figure 32 As shown, the guide portion 370D of this variant is located above the contact point 360D in the vertical direction. The guide portion 370D extends in a first position in the first horizontal direction and moves upward in the vertical direction.

[0153] Although the present invention has been described in detail above through embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto and various modifications and substitutions are possible.

[0154] In the above embodiments, in the unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, 100C and mating connectors 500, 500C do not match each other, the abutment portions 342, 342C are positioned beyond the connection guide surfaces 220, 220C in a first orientation along the first horizontal direction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, in the unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, 100C and mating connectors 500, 500C do not match each other, the abutment portions 342, 342C can be positioned in the first horizontal direction at the same position as the connection guide surfaces 220, 220C. In other words, connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C should be configured such that, in an unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C do not match with mating connectors 500 and 500C, the abutment portions 342 and 342C are positioned in the first horizontal direction at the same position as the connection guide surfaces 220 and 220C, or positioned in a first orientation along the first horizontal direction beyond the connection guide surfaces 220 and 220C. This allows the abutment portions 342 and 342C to contact the receiving portions 332 and 332C at a relatively early timing during the intermediate period of the mating process between connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C and mating connectors 500 and 500C, thereby generating the desired torque M at the designated contact position SP of terminals 300, 300A, 300B, and 300C. Therefore, when connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C are matched with mating connectors 500 and 500C, connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C can reliably prevent terminals 300, 300A, 300B, and 300C from bending.

[0155] In the above embodiments, in the unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, 100C and mating connectors 500, 500C do not match each other, protrusions 350, 350C protrude along a first orientation. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, in the unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, 100C and mating connectors 500, 500C do not match each other, protrusions 350, 350C may protrude along a first orientation. In other words, protrusions 350, 350C should be configured such that in the unmatched state where connectors 100, 100A, 100B, 100C and mating connectors 500, 500C do not match each other, protrusions 350, 350C protrude along a first orientation or protrude along a first orientation. This helps to tilt the second portions 343 and 343C of terminals 300, 300A, 300B, and 300C in a second orientation when connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C are mated with mating connectors 500 and 500C. Therefore, when connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C are mated with mating connectors 500 and 500C, connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C can further prevent terminals 300, 300A, 300B, and 300C from bending.

[0156] Although each connecting portion 330, 330A, 330C of the terminals 300, 300A, 300B, 300C in the above embodiments does not have a portion press-fitted to the housings 200, 200C, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, the terminals 300, 300A, 300B, 300C can be modified as follows: instead of having fixed portions 310, 310B, the terminals 300, 300A, 300B, 300C have fixed portions 310, 310B positioned outward in a first horizontal direction beyond the original position of the fixed portions 310, 310B; the connecting portions 330, 330A, 330C have press-fit portions that are press-fitted to the housings 200, 200C. In this case, the receiving portions 332, 332C are positioned in the first horizontal direction between the press-fit portions and the retaining portions 320, 320C.

[0157] Although electronic devices 800, 800A, 800B, and 800C include target objects 700, 700A, 700B, and 700C forming circuit boards and connector assemblies 600 and 600C mounted on the circuit boards with connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C, the present invention is not limited thereto. Specifically, electronic devices 800, 800A, 800B, and 800C can be modified, for example, as follows: the housings 200 and 200C of connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C are used as floating housings; target objects 700, 700A, 700B, and 700C are used as fixed housings; and connectors 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C are mounted on the fixed housings. In other words, electronic devices 800, 800A, 800B, and 800C can be modified to function as floating connectors. That is, the present invention also applies to floating connectors.

[0158] The above description describes the preferred embodiments of the present invention and the technical principles applied thereto. For those skilled in the art, any obvious changes such as equivalent transformations or simple substitutions based on the technical solutions of the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A connector assembly comprising a mating connector and a connector configured for mounting on a target object, characterized in that: The mating connector is matable from above to the connector positioned below it in the vertical direction; The mating connector includes a mating housing and mating terminals; The mating housing holds the mating terminals; The connector includes a housing and terminals; The housing holds the terminal; The terminal has a fixed part, a retaining part, a connecting part, a supporting part, and a single contact point; The fixed part is configured to be fixed to the target object; The retained portion is held by the housing; The connecting part connects the fixed part and the retained part to each other; The connecting part has a receiving part; The support portion extends from the held portion and is elastically deformable; The support portion has an abutment portion; The abutting portion is positioned above the receiving portion along the vertical direction; The abutting part contacts the receiving part in the mating state where the connector and the mating connector are mated together; The contact point is supported by the support portion; The contact point is in contact with the matching terminal in the matching state; The contact point is oriented in a first horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction; The first orientation starting from the contact point is away from the held portion; The terminal also has a protrusion; The protrusion is formed on the support portion; In the mismatched state where the connector and the mating connector do not match each other, the protrusion protrudes or bulges along the first orientation; as well as The protrusion is positioned beyond the contact point in the first orientation of the first horizontal direction.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the unmatched state, the contact point is movable in the first horizontal direction; and The abutting portion is positioned between the retained portion and the fixed portion along the first horizontal direction.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector is visible when viewed from below along the vertical direction.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The terminal also has a guide portion; The guide portion is positioned above the contact point in the vertical direction; The guide portion extends in a second position in the first horizontal direction and faces upward in the vertical direction; The second orientation is opposite to the first orientation; During the intermediate period of the mating process of the mating connector and the connector mating each other, the mating terminal moves on the guide portion, while the mating terminal pushes the entire terminal downward, and the abutment portion begins to press against the receiving portion; At the initial stage when the abutting portion presses against the receiving portion, the mating terminal and the guiding portion come into contact with each other at a set contact position; The guide portion receives a vertical force from the mating terminal at the designated contact position; The vertical force is oriented perpendicular to the contact surfaces where the mating terminal and the guide portion contact each other at the set contact position; The guide portion receives frictional force at the designated contact position, and the frictional force is caused by the friction between the mating terminal and the guide portion due to the movement of the mating terminal on the guide portion; The line of action of the combined force of the vertical force and the frictional force intersects the connecting part at the reference point; as well as The abutting portion is positioned beyond the reference point in the first orientation of the first horizontal direction.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the mismatched state, the connector has a gap between the abutting portion and the receiving portion; and The size of the gap is smaller than the thickness of the target object.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the first horizontal direction, the abutting portion is closer to the contact point than the portion that is held.

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