Charging connector

Abstract

The present application provides a charging connector, aiming at miniaturization of the charging connector. The charging connector (10) comprises: power terminals (22A, 22B); signal terminals (24A, 24B); a housing (50) and a stopper for holding the power terminals and the signal terminals; relay terminals (28A, 28B) having plate-shaped assembly portions (29Aa, 29Ba) fixed to the power terminals (22A, 22B) in a posture extending along a direction intersecting with a plug-in direction; power lines (32) electrically connected to the power terminals (22A, 22B) via the relay terminals (28A, 28B); and an outer member covering the stopper (60) and the power terminals and the signal terminals together, the power lines (32) extending along a straight line extending in the direction intersecting with the plug-in direction within the outer member (90).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to charging connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a charging socket comprising a cylindrical portion, a housing fitted into the base end of the cylindrical portion, and an end cap fitted into the housing. Multiple terminals electrically connected to terminals of an external connector are provided inside the cylindrical portion. Furthermore, the terminals are electrically connected to a battery via wiring passing through the housing and the end cap.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-83130 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Power lines are used for wiring that connects terminals and batteries. Power lines are thicker than signal lines, so their bending radius is more likely to be larger. Therefore, when assuming that the power lines are bent inside the end cover according to the routing direction, space must be provided inside the end cover to accommodate the bent power lines.

[0008] Here, it is required that the charging port be miniaturized.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to achieve miniaturization of the charging connector.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] The disclosed charging connector is mounted in a vehicle and engages with an external charging connector connected to an external power source of the vehicle for charging a battery in the vehicle. The charging connector includes: a first power terminal and a second power terminal for supplying power to the battery; a first signal terminal disposed on one side relative to the first and second power terminals, in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the first and second power terminals; and a second signal terminal disposed on one side relative to the first and second power terminals, in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the first and second power terminals. The power terminals are arranged orthogonally to each other on one side; the housing has an opening and a terminal holding portion, through which the external charging connector is inserted and removed, and the terminal holding portion is located inside the opening when viewed along the insertion / removal direction of the external charging connector, holding the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal; a stop body is formed with the end of the housing opposite to the opening, and together with the housing, holds the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal. 2 signal terminals; a first relay terminal having a first plate-shaped mounting portion and a first power line connection portion, the first plate-shaped mounting portion having a first through hole, the first plate-shaped mounting portion being fixed to the end of the first power terminal opposite to the opening in a posture extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction; a second relay terminal having a second plate-shaped mounting portion and a second power line connection portion, the second plate-shaped mounting portion having a second through hole, the second plate-shaped mounting portion being fixed to the end of the second power terminal opposite to the opening in a posture extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. The device comprises: an end portion; a first power line connected to the first power line connection portion and electrically connected to the first power terminal via the first relay terminal; a second power line connected to the second power line connection portion and electrically connected to the second power terminal via the second relay terminal; and an outer casing that covers the stop, the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal from the side opposite to the opening, wherein the first power line and the second power line extend within the outer casing along a straight line extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to this disclosure, the charging connector can be miniaturized. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a top view showing the charging connector of Embodiment 1 and its assembly method.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the charging connector of Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the charging connector of Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a front view showing the charging connector of Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the VV line.

[0019] Figure 6 It is a diagram illustrating the power terminals and the wires with terminals, as well as their storage locations.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the wire path in a charging connector.

[0021] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the power supply terminals.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the stop body and relay terminal.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a rear view showing a modified example of the charging connector. Detailed Implementation

[0024] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0025] First, the implementation methods of this disclosure are listed and explained.

[0026] The charging connector disclosed herein is as follows.

[0027] (1) An external charging connector mounted on a vehicle and connected to an external power source of the vehicle for charging a battery provided in the vehicle, the charging connector comprising: a first power terminal and a second power terminal for supplying power to the battery; a first signal terminal disposed on one side relative to the first power terminal and the second power terminal, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged; and a second signal terminal disposed on one side relative to the first power terminal and the second power terminal, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged. The columns are arranged orthogonally to each other on the other side; the housing has an opening and a terminal holding portion, through which the external charging connector is inserted and removed, the terminal holding portion being located inside the opening when viewed along the insertion and removal direction of the external charging connector, holding the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal; a stop body, which engages with the end of the housing opposite to the opening, together with the housing holding the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal. Terminals; a first relay terminal having a first plate-shaped mounting portion and a first power line connection portion, the first plate-shaped mounting portion having a first through hole, the first plate-shaped mounting portion being fixed to the end of the first power terminal opposite to the opening in a posture extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction; a second relay terminal having a second plate-shaped mounting portion and a second power line connection portion, the second plate-shaped mounting portion having a second through hole, the second plate-shaped mounting portion being fixed to the end of the second power terminal opposite to the opening in a posture extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. The device comprises: a first power line connected to the first power line connection portion and electrically connected to the first power terminal via the first relay terminal; a second power line connected to the second power line connection portion and electrically connected to the second power terminal via the second relay terminal; and an outer casing that covers the stop, the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal from the side opposite to the opening, wherein the first power line and the second power line extend within the outer casing along a straight line extending in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0028] According to this charging connector, the first and second power lines extend along a straight line within the outer casing, intersecting the insertion / removal direction. Therefore, space for accommodating bent power lines is not required within the outer casing. This allows for miniaturization of the charging connector. In particular, the change in direction of the power lines relative to the length direction of the power terminals is achieved using a relay terminal that is securely fixed to the power terminals, thus enabling miniaturization of the charging connector in the insertion / removal direction. Furthermore, the first and second power lines can be kept straight within the outer casing, simplifying the manufacturing of the charging connector.

[0029] (2) In the charging connector of (1), it may also be a charging connector in which the first power line connection portion and the second power line connection portion are arranged such that the first power line and the second power line extend toward one side along the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged, and the first relay terminal has a detour portion provided between the first plate-shaped mounting portion and the first power line connection portion, extending in a manner that detours past the first signal terminal. Thus, interference with signal lines extending from the first signal terminal can be avoided, and the first relay terminal can be configured.

[0030] (3) In the charging connector of (1) or (2), the stop body may also have a wall surrounding the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal, the wall being formed, when viewed in the insertion / removal direction, at a position that separates the first relay terminal or the second relay terminal from the first signal terminal or the second signal terminal. Thus, the wall can be used to separate each relay terminal and each signal terminal.

[0031] (4) In any of the charging connectors in (1) to (3), one of the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal may include a plate-like portion along the insertion / removal direction, and the other of the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal may include a plate-like portion along a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. By arranging the plate-like portions of the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal in different directions, they can be configured in a compact space, which helps to miniaturize the charging connector.

[0032] (5) In any of the charging connectors in (1) to (4), the first power line and the second power line may extend along the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged. Thus, the first power line and the second power line can be led out along the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged.

[0033] (6) In any of the charging connectors in (1) to (5), the charging connector may further include: a first signal line connected to the first signal terminal; and a second signal line connected to the second signal terminal, wherein the first signal line and the second signal line are bent and bundled together within the outer casing. Thus, the first signal line and the second signal line can also be reoriented and bundled together within the outer casing before being led out.

[0034] (7) In any of the charging connectors (1) to (6), the connector may further include: a first fastener, inserted through the first through hole, for securing the first plate-shaped mounting portion to the end of the first power terminal opposite to the opening; and a second fastener, inserted through the second through hole, for securing the second plate-shaped mounting portion to the end of the second power terminal opposite to the opening. Thus, the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal can be easily and securely connected to the first power terminal and the second power terminal using the first fastener and the second fastener.

[0035] (8) In the charging connector of (7), the fastening direction of the first fastener and the second fastener may also be the same as the insertion / removal direction. Therefore, the fastening operation can be easily carried out as long as the fastener is fastened along the insertion / removal direction.

[0036] (9) In any of the charging connectors in (1) to (8), the first power terminal and the second power terminal may be metal plate-shaped components bent to allow the first plate-shaped assembly and the second plate-shaped assembly to be arranged in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. This allows for a configuration in which the first plate-shaped assembly and the second plate-shaped assembly are arranged in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0037] (10) In any of the charging connectors in (1) to (9), the first power terminal may have a first cylindrical portion into which the opposite terminal is inserted, and the second power terminal may have a second cylindrical portion into which the opposite terminal is inserted. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the first cylindrical portion overlaps with the first through hole, and the second cylindrical portion overlaps with the second through hole. Thus, when viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the charging connector can be made compact.

[0038] (11) In any of the charging connectors from (1) to (10), the first power line and the second power line may include a cross-sectional area of ​​40 mm². 2The above conductors. Thus, if the electric field wire is thick, the bending radius increases, making it easier to accommodate the bent portion in a larger space. The first and second electric field wires are configured to extend along a straight line within the outer casing, intersecting the insertion / removal direction, thereby ensuring that even when using conductors with a cross-sectional area of ​​40mm²... 2 The thicker first and second power lines of the conductors described above also enable the miniaturization of the charging connector.

[0039] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure]

[0040] Specific examples of the charging connector of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims, as shown by the claims.

[0041] [Implementation Method 1]

[0042] The charging connector of Embodiment 1 will be described below.

[0043] <About Vehicles>

[0044] First, let's explain the vehicles on which the charging connector is installed.

[0045] The vehicle fitted with the charging connector is an electric vehicle equipped with a battery and an electric motor. The vehicle is driven by electricity from the battery via the electric motor. The vehicle can be either an electric vehicle with only an electric motor as its drive source, or a hybrid vehicle with both an electric motor and an engine. The battery in the vehicle is charged using power supplied from an external power source. The charging connector is configured to insert into and electrically connect to an external charging connector 200 (see [link]). Figure 5 An external charging connector is a connector for a charging cable that extends from an external power source.

[0046] There are generally two charging methods for vehicle batteries: regular charging and fast charging. Fast charging uses a larger current than regular charging, thus enabling charging in a shorter time. Regular charging uses household power or an equivalent external power source. Fast charging uses a dedicated power source, such as a charging station. The following explanation uses a charging connector compatible with fast charging as an example.

[0047] <Charging connector in the vehicle>

[0048] Combination Figure 1 The assembly method of the charging connector in the vehicle is explained. Figure 1 This is a top view showing the charging connector 10 of Embodiment 1 and its assembly method.

[0049] The charging connector 10 is, for example, mounted on a mounting part 100 provided on the outer surface of the vehicle body. Figure 1 An example of the mounting portion 100 is shown. The mounting portion 100 is, for example, formed as a recessed part of a panel constituting the vehicle body, extending inward toward the vehicle. A through hole 104 is formed in the panel 102 at the bottom of the mounting portion 100.

[0050] A connection portion for connecting to an external charging connector is provided on the front side of the charging connector 10. The connection portion includes a section into which the external charging connector is inserted and electrically connected. A portion of the charging connector 10, including the connection portion, protrudes through a through-hole 104 and is exposed on the outside of the panel 102. Another portion of the charging connector 10 is positioned on the vehicle interior side, closer to the panel 102. Typically, a body side cover 106 is provided on the mounting section 100. The body side cover 106 is mounted using hinges or the like. When the body side cover 106 is closed, it covers the opening of the panel 102. When the body side cover 106 is open, the charging connector 10 is exposed and can be connected from the outside. By engaging with the external charging connector 200, the vehicle's battery 230 is charged.

[0051] In this disclosure, such as Figure 1 As shown, among the mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z directions, the X direction is parallel to the direction in which the charging connector 10 passes through the through hole 104 of the panel 102. The charging connector 10 and the external charging connector are connected in the X direction. The Y direction is the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged, as described later. The Z direction is orthogonal to both the X and Y directions. For example, when the charging connector 10 is located on the side of the vehicle, the X direction is considered to be the width direction of the vehicle, the Y direction is considered to be the front-rear direction of the vehicle, and the Z direction is considered to be the vertical direction. Alternatively, for example, when the charging connector 10 is located at the front or rear of the vehicle, the X direction is considered to be the front-rear direction of the vehicle, the Y direction is considered to be the width direction of the vehicle, and the Z direction is considered to be the vertical direction.

[0052] <Overall Composition>

[0053] remove Figure 1 In addition, combined Figures 2 to 7 The overall structure of the charging connector 10 will be described. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the charging connector 10 of Embodiment 1. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the charging connector 10 of Embodiment 1. Figure 4 This is a front view showing the charging connector 10 of Embodiment 1. Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the VV line. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the terminal wire 38 and its storage location. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the path of the wires 30 in the charging connector 10. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the text, wire 30 is omitted. Additionally, in... Figure 6 In the middle, part of the terminal wire 38 is omitted.

[0054] The charging connector 10 includes terminals 20, wires 30, a thermistor unit 40, a housing 50, a stop 60, a wire cover 70, a cover unit 80, and a wire sheath 90.

[0055] <Terminal>

[0056] Terminal 20 includes connector terminal 21 and relay terminal 28 (see...) Figures 3-6 Connector terminals 21 are housed in housing 50. Connector terminals 21 connect to terminals of the opposite connector. The number and type of connector terminals 21 are appropriately set according to the specifications of charging connector 10. In this embodiment, connector terminals 21 include two power terminals 22, six signal terminals 24, and one ground terminal 26. Relay terminals 28 are sandwiched between power terminals 22 and wire 30. The number of relay terminals 28 is the same as that of power terminals 22 (two in this case). Each terminal 20 is formed by stamping (bending) a metal plate.

[0057] The power terminal 22 is used to supply power to the battery 230. The power terminal 22 has a cylindrical portion 23a, a fastening plate-like portion 23b, and a protrusion 23c. The power terminal 22 also has a thermistor mounting portion 23d.

[0058] The cylindrical portion 23a is the part that is electrically connected to the power supply terminal of the external charging connector. The fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is the part that secures the relay terminal 28. The power line 32 is electrically connected to the power supply terminal 22 via the relay terminal 28.

[0059] Signal terminal 24 has a parallel connection portion 25a, a wire connection portion 25b, and a protrusion 25c. Grounding terminal 26 has a parallel connection portion 27a, a wire connection portion 27b, and a protrusion 27c. Wire connection portions 25b and 27b are for connecting wires and are crimped in this case. Signal terminal 24 and grounding terminal 26 are crimped to the ends of their respective wires 30 by wire connection portions 25b and 27b, respectively. Thus, signal terminal 24 and grounding terminal 26 are electrically connected to and fixed to their respective wires 30.

[0060] Protrusions 23c, 25c, and 27c are provided in the middle of each connector terminal 21. Protrusions 23c, 25c, and 27c are the portions pressed by the stop body 60. The thermistor mounting portion 23d is the portion for mounting the thermistor unit 40.

[0061] One end of each wire 30 is connected to terminal 20. The other end of each wire 30 extends outward from the cable sheath 90. When the charging connector 10 is mounted in the vehicle, the other end of each wire 30 is connected to another device mounted in the vehicle. Such a device is appropriately configured depending on the type of wire 30, for example, a battery, an electronic control unit (ECU), etc. The number and type of wires 30 correspond to the number and type of connector terminals 21. In this embodiment, the wires 30 include two power lines 32, six signal lines 34, and one ground line 36 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2 and Figure 7 One end of the power line 32 is connected to the relay terminal 28. The power line 32 is connected to the power supply terminal 22 via the relay terminal 28. One end of the signal line 34 is connected to the signal terminal 24. One end of the ground line 36 is connected to the ground terminal 26. One end of the thermistor wire 44 is connected to the thermistor 42.

[0062] Each wire 30 is a sheathed wire. The sheathed wire has a core wire 31a and a covering portion 31b that covers the core wire 31a. The core wire 31a is formed, for example, by twisting together multiple metal wires. The core wire 31a can also be a single-core wire. The covering portion 31b is formed, for example, by extruding an insulating resin around the core wire 31a. Multiple wires 30 of different thicknesses are used as multiple wires 30. The thickness of the wire 30 is set according to the allowable current value, etc. Generally, to increase the allowable current value, the conductor cross-sectional area needs to be increased, and correspondingly, the thickness of the wire 30 becomes thicker. Furthermore, the thickness of the wire 30 is generally related to the bending difficulty of the wire 30; as the wire 30 becomes thicker, it becomes more difficult to bend. For example, when bending an easily bendable wire and a difficult-to-bend wire by the same angle, the radius of curvature of the difficult-to-bend wire is larger than that of the easily bendable wire, and correspondingly, a larger arrangement space is required.

[0063] In this example, the power line 32 is thicker than the ground line 36 and the signal line 34. Therefore, the power line 32 is more difficult to bend than the ground line 36 and the signal line 34. The cross-sectional area of ​​the conductor of the power line 32 is, for example, 40 mm². 2 The above. The cross-sectional area of ​​the conductor of power line 32 is, for example, 120 mm². 2 Furthermore, ground wire 36 is thicker than signal wire 34. Therefore, ground wire 36 is more difficult to bend than signal wire 34.

[0064] <Wire with terminals>

[0065] Terminal 20 and wire 30 are electrically connected to each other by crimping during the manufacturing process of charging connector 10 and are fixed together as a single unit. This integrated structure of wire 30 and terminal 20 is sometimes referred to as terminald wire 38. In this example, there is a terminald wire 38 with integrated power line 32 and relay terminal 28, a terminald wire 38 with integrated signal line 34 and signal terminal 24, and a terminald wire 38 with integrated ground line 36 and grounding terminal 26.

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, a shrink tube 39 can also be used to cover the terminal wire 38. The shrink tube 39 covers the connection portion between the wire 30 and the terminal 20. This can suppress water splashing at the connection portion between the wire 30 and the terminal 20, and water seeping into the covered portion 31b. For example, the shrink tube 39 covers the portion of the wire 30 that has the covered portion 31b, from the portion of the terminal 20 that is forward of the portion connecting the wire 30. The shrink tube 39 is, for example, a heat-shrinkable tube 39 that shrinks by heating. The shrink tube 39 covers the terminal wire 38 in its large-diameter state before heating. Then, the shrink tube 39 can fit tightly against the connection portion by changing into a shape corresponding to the shape of the connection portion when it shrinks by heating. For example, a hot melt adhesive can be provided on the inner surface of the shrink tube 39. This hot melt adhesive can fill the gaps between the shrink tube 39 and the terminal 20, and between the shrink tube 39 and the wire 30, thereby improving the water resistance of the shrink tube 39. A hot melt adhesive can also be provided on the inner surface of the shrink tube 39. In the terminald wire 38, the shrink tube 39 may be omitted at the connection between the wire 30 and the terminal 20, and instead left exposed. Alternatively, in the terminald wire 38, an adhesive or other resin may be used instead of the shrink tube 39 at the connection between the wire 30 and the terminal 20.

[0067] <Thermistor Unit>

[0068] The thermistor unit 40 measures the temperature of the power supply terminal 22. In the fast charging connector 10, a large current flows through the power supply terminal 22, which supplies power for charging the battery, thus the temperature rise of the power supply terminal 22 is correspondingly large. By monitoring the temperature of the power supply terminal 22 using the thermistor unit 40, excessive temperature rise of the power supply terminal 22 can be prevented. The thermistor unit 40 includes a thermistor 42 and a thermistor wire 44 (see...). Figure 6In this example, a thermistor 42 is mounted on each of a pair of power terminals 22 to measure the temperature of each of the power terminals 22. One end of the thermistor wire 44 is connected to the thermistor 42. The other end of the thermistor wire 44 extends outward from the cable sleeve 90 in the same manner as the other end of the wire 30. When the charging connector 10 is mounted in the vehicle, the other end of the thermistor wire 44 is connected to, for example, the ECU. The thermistor wire 44 is thinner than the power line 32 and the ground wire 36. Therefore, the thermistor wire 44 is easier to bend than the power line 32 and the ground wire 36.

[0069] <Shell>

[0070] The housing 50 holds the connector terminal 21 in a predetermined position (the position where the external charging connector can connect to the connector terminal 21). The housing 50 includes a housing body 51, a vehicle mounting portion 54, and a wire pressing portion 57 (see [link to housing 50]). Figures 3-6 ).

[0071] The housing body 51 houses the connector terminal 21. The housing body 51 has an outer frame portion 52 and multiple terminal holding portions 53. Each of the multiple terminal holding portions 53 is formed as a cylinder capable of housing the corresponding connector terminal 21. The outer frame portion 52 is formed as a cylinder surrounding the multiple terminal holding portions 53. At the middle portion of the terminal holding portions 53, the multiple terminal holding portions 53 and the outer frame portion 52 are connected by a flat plate-shaped connecting portion. An opening 51A for inserting / removing the external charging connector is formed in the outer frame portion 52, facing outwards from the connecting portion. The terminal holding portions 53 are located inside the opening 51A when viewed along the insertion / removal direction of the external charging connector. A cover unit 80 is mounted at the front of the housing body 51. A stop body 60 is mounted at the rear of the housing body 51.

[0072] The vehicle assembly part 54 is used to assemble the charging connector 10 to the assembly part 100. The vehicle assembly part 54 is formed as a plate protruding from the middle of the housing body 51 to the periphery of the outer frame part 52. The vehicle assembly part 54 is assembled to the assembly part 100 using, for example, screws S.

[0073] The wire pressing part 57 has a middle portion of the wire 30 extending from the terminal 20. Therefore, vibrations generated in the portion of the wire 30 closer to the end than the portion pressed by the wire pressing part 57 are less likely to be transmitted to the terminal 20, thus suppressing friction between the terminal 20 and the housing body 51. Behind the housing body 51, a block-shaped arm 56 protrudes from the outer frame portion 52 in the Y direction. A wire pressing part 57 is provided at the top end of the arm 56 along the protruding direction from the housing body 51. Three wire pressing parts 57 are provided. Two of the three wire pressing parts 57 press two power lines 32, and the remaining wire pressing part 57 presses a ground line 36. Viewed in the insertion / removal direction, the signal line 34 extends along the ground line 36.

[0074] <Stop body>

[0075] The stop body 60 prevents the terminal 20 from disengaging from the housing 50. The stop body 60 includes a terminal pressing portion 61 and walls 64, 65, and 66.

[0076] The terminal pressing part 61 presses and retracts behind the connector terminal 21 housed in the housing 50. This prevents the connector terminal 21 from disengaging from the housing 50 to the rear. The terminal pressing part 61 includes a rear cover part 62 and a plurality of protruding cylindrical parts 63.

[0077] The rear cover 62 closes the opening at the rear of the outer frame 52. Multiple through holes are formed in the rear cover 62. These through holes are located at positions corresponding to the terminal holding portions 53. The power terminal 22 and the relay terminal 28 contact each other through the through holes corresponding to the power terminal 22 and are secured by screws. The relay terminal 28 is disposed on the back side of the rear cover 62. Signal lines 34 and ground lines 36 are led out from the through holes corresponding to the signal terminal 24 and the ground terminal 26.

[0078] Multiple protruding cylindrical portions 63 protrude forward (towards the housing 50) from the rear cover portion 62. These protruding cylindrical portions 63 are formed at positions corresponding to each terminal holding portion 53. Each protruding cylindrical portion 63 communicates with each through hole. The top end of each protruding cylindrical portion 63 is inserted into the corresponding terminal holding portion 53, pressing the corresponding protrusions 23c, 25c, and 27c from the rear.

[0079] Walls 64, 65, and 66 protrude rearward from the rear cover 62 along the insertion / removal direction. Walls 64 and 65 are walls that separate the relay terminal 28 from its surroundings. Walls 64 and 65 are also limiting walls that restrict the position of the relay terminal 28. Wall 66 is a partition wall inside the cable sheath 90 that separates the storage space and drainage space of the terminal 20.

[0080] The housing 50 and the stop 60 are provided with locking portions. In this example, the locking portions include a locking protrusion formed on the housing 50 and a locking tab formed on the stop 60. By locking the locking tab with the locking protrusion, the stop 60 is joined to the rear end of the housing 50 on the side opposite to the opening 51A. Thus, the stop 60 and the housing 50 together hold the connector terminal 21.

[0081] <Wire Cover>

[0082] The wire cover 70 is fitted onto the wire pressing part 57. The wire cover 70 prevents the wire 30 from detaching from the wire pressing part 57. The wire cover 70 and the wire pressing part 57 cover the entire periphery of the middle portion of the wire 30 along its length. In this embodiment, two wire covers 70 are provided. One of the two wire covers 70 presses down on two power lines 32. The other of the two wire covers 70 presses down on a ground wire 36.

[0083] <Cover Unit>

[0084] A cover unit 80 is closable and positioned at the front of the housing body 51. When the cover unit 80 is opened, the connection port of the housing body 51 is exposed, allowing connection of an external charging connector to the charging connector 10. When the cover unit 80 is closed, the connection port of the housing body 51 is locked. The cover unit 80 includes a cover 82, a hinge unit 84, and a locking unit 86. The cover 82 is closable and mounted on the housing body 51 via the hinge unit 84. The locking unit 86 holds the cover 82 in a closed state. During charging operations, the operator can operate the locking unit 86 to open the cover 82.

[0085] <Wire Protector>

[0086] The cable sheath 90 covers the stop 60 and terminal 20 together from the side opposite to the opening 51A of the housing 50. The cable sheath 90 includes a first protective part 91 and a second protective part 94. The first protective part 91 covers the rear end of the housing body 51 and the stop 60. The second protective part 94 covers the wire pressing part 57. The cable sheath 90 is an elastic component. The cable sheath 90 is, for example, made of an elastic material such as EPDM. The cable sheath 90 is, for example, a molded integral part. The cable sheath is an example of an external component that covers the stop 60 and terminal 20 together. The external component does not necessarily have to be an elastic component, but can be formed using rigid resin, metal, etc. That is, the external component can be either a protector or a cable sheath.

[0087] A housing outlet 92 and a drain outlet 93 are formed in the first protective section 91. The housing outlet 92 is an example of an opening that covers the rear end of the housing 50. Through the housing outlet 92, the front end of the housing body 51 extends outward toward the outside of the cable sheath 90. The housing outlet 92 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the X direction. The drain outlet 93 is an opening for draining water that has entered the interior of the charging connector 10 to the outside. For example, it can be assumed that such water enters from the front end of the housing body 51 when the cover unit 80 is open. The drain outlet 93 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the Z direction.

[0088] A strapping 98 is fitted onto the outer surface of the housing outlet 92. The cable sheath 90 is fitted onto the housing 50 using the strapping 98. An annular rib 92a is provided on the inner surface of the housing outlet 92. The annular rib 92a is provided all around the circumference of the inner surface of the housing outlet 92. The annular rib 92a is in close contact with the outer surface of the housing body 51. By being secured to the housing outlet 92 by the strapping 98, the annular rib 92a is compressed between the inner surface of the housing outlet 92 and the outer surface of the housing body 51. As a result, the water-tightness between the outer surface of the housing body 51 and the inner surface of the housing outlet 92 is improved.

[0089] A wire outlet 95 is formed in the second protective section 94. The other end of the wire 30 extends outward from the wire outlet 95 to the outside of the sheath 90. Three wire outlets 95 are provided in one sheath 90. Two of the three wire outlets 95 are provided for two power lines 32. One power line 32 is inserted into each of the two wire outlets 95. The remaining wire outlet 95 is where the signal line 34, the ground line 36, and the thermistor wire 44 pass through.

[0090] <Terminal Position Relationship>

[0091] Combination Figures 3-7 The positional relationship of the connector terminals 21 held by the housing 50 and the stop body 60 will be explained.

[0092] The charging connector 10 includes a pair of power terminals 22. Viewed along the insertion / removal direction of the external charging connector, the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged in a Z-direction configuration. For example, the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged in a horizontal direction relative to the plumb line.

[0093] A pair of power terminals 22 is an example of a first power terminal and a second power terminal. In the following description, as needed, one of the pair of power terminals 22 may be designated as the first power terminal 22A and the other as the second power terminal 22B. The first and second power terminals may also be distinguished by adding "first" or "second" before their names. Similarly, the power line 32 and the screw S, which is an example of a fastener, may also be distinguished by adding "first" or "second" before their names, depending on whether they are connected to each other as the first power terminal 22A or the second power terminal 22B.

[0094] Multiple signal terminals 24, viewed along the insertion / removal direction, are arranged separately on both sides relative to the orientation of the pair of power terminals 22. In the following description, the multiple signal terminals 24 are sometimes distinguished as a first signal terminal 24A and a second signal terminal 24B. The first signal terminal 24A is the signal terminal among the multiple signal terminals 24 that is arranged on one side (e.g., the upper side) relative to the pair of power terminals 22 in a direction orthogonal to the orientation of the pair of power terminals 22 when viewed along the insertion / removal direction. The second signal terminal 24B is the signal terminal among the multiple signal terminals 24 that is arranged on the other side (e.g., the lower side) relative to the pair of power terminals 22 in a direction orthogonal to the orientation of the pair of power terminals 22 when viewed along the insertion / removal direction. Regarding the signal lines 34 connected to the signal terminals 24, as needed, the signal line 34 connected to the first signal terminal 24A is sometimes distinguished as a first signal line, and the signal line 34 connected to the second signal terminal 24B is distinguished as a second signal line.

[0095] Here, four first signal terminals 24A are arranged on one side (e.g., the upper side) along a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. More specifically, one first signal terminal 24A is arranged on one side (e.g., the upper side) closer to the middle of the pair of power terminals 22 along a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged, and the remaining three first signal terminals 24A are arranged along the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged at a position further away from the first first signal terminal 24A than the first first signal terminal 24A.

[0096] Additionally, two second signal terminals 24B are arranged on the other side (e.g., the lower side) in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. More specifically, the two second signal terminals 24B are arranged on the other side (e.g., the lower side) relative to the pair of power terminals 22 in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. A ground terminal 26 is arranged between the two second signal terminals 24B. Terminal holding portions 53 for receiving each connector terminal 21 are also provided at positions corresponding to each of the connector terminals 21.

[0097] <Power Terminals>

[0098] A more specific example of power terminal 22 will be provided. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first power terminal 22A and the second power terminal 22B have the same configuration. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the power terminal 22 includes a cylindrical portion 23a and a fastening plate-like portion 23b. The cylindrical portion 23a is provided at one end of the power terminal 22, and the fastening plate-like portion 23b is provided at the other end.

[0099] The cylindrical portion 23a is formed into a cylindrical shape into which the rod-shaped terminal 210 on the opposite side is inserted. A slit 23s is formed in the cylindrical portion 23a extending from the middle portion along its length toward the top portion. Multiple slits are formed in a circumferential arrangement in the cylindrical portion 23a. By forming slits 23s in the cylindrical portion 23a, the elongated strip 23p between the slits 23s in the cylindrical portion 23a can be elastically deformed into the cylindrical portion 23a. Therefore, the elongated strip 23p can be elastically pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the terminal 210 on the opposite side.

[0100] The fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is a portion having a fastening through hole 23bh and being formed in a plate shape. Furthermore, the fastening through hole 23bh only needs to penetrate both sides of the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b, and does not need to be a hole surrounded by other parts. A portion around the fastening through hole 23bh can also reach the outer periphery of the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b via a slit. The fastening plate-shaped portion 23b intersects the axial direction of the aforementioned cylindrical portion 23a, and is orthogonal to the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 23a. Viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the fastening through hole 23bh and the through hole 29Aah (or 29Bah) described later are arranged to overlap with the cylindrical portion 23a. The central axis of the fastening through hole 23bh and the central axis of the cylindrical portion 23a may also coincide. In this embodiment, the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is formed in a circular plate shape, except for the portion connected to the connecting portion 23e described next. The shape of the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is not particularly limited; for example, it can be formed into a polygonal plate shape or a quadrangular plate shape. Because the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is arranged in a direction intersecting the central axis relative to the cylindrical portion 23a, the plate-shaped assembly portions 29Aa and 29Ba, which overlap with the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b and are described later, are also arranged in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction.

[0101] A connecting portion 23e is provided between the cylindrical portion 23a and the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b. The connecting portion 23e has an elongated plate-shaped portion, one end of which is connected to a circumferential portion of the base end of the cylindrical portion 23a, and the other end is connected to one side of the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b.

[0102] In the connecting portion 23e, a pair of protrusions 23c are provided protruding from the cylindrical portion 23a on both sides. As described above, the stop body 60 can press the pair of protrusions 23c.

[0103] Such a power terminal 22 can also be formed by bending a metal plate-shaped component 220. For example, a metal plate-shaped component 220 made of copper plate or copper alloy plate is punched into the shape to form the power terminal 22 (see [link to punching shape] for some examples). Figure 8 The imaginary line L). During or after punching, the punched portions are bent to form a cylindrical portion 23a, a fastening plate-like portion 23b, and a protrusion 23c. This produces a power terminal 22. Such a power terminal 22 can be manufactured efficiently and at a lower cost compared to machining a block of metal.

[0104] <Relay Terminal>

[0105] A more detailed explanation of relay terminal 28 follows. Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing the stop body 60 and the relay terminal 28. (See attached image.) Figure 3 , Figures 5-7 , Figure 9 As shown, one of a pair of relay terminals 28 is connected to the first power terminal 22A, and the other is connected to the second power terminal 22B. The pair of relay terminals 28 are an example of the first and second relay terminals, but their shapes differ. In the following description, depending on the need, the relay terminal connected to the first power terminal 22A may be designated as the first relay terminal 28A, and the relay terminal connected to the second power terminal 22B may be designated as the second relay terminal 28B. The terms "first" or "second" may also be added before the names of the respective components of the first and second relay terminals 28A and 28B for distinction.

[0106] The second relay terminal 28B has a plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba, a power line connection portion 29Bb, and an intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc. With the second relay terminal 28B fixed to the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b of the second power terminal 22B, the second relay terminal 28B extends in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0107] More specifically, the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba is formed in a plate shape. The shape of the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba is not particularly limited. The plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba can be formed as a non-circular plate, or it can be a shape that connects to the wall 65 to prevent rotation. A through hole 29Bah is formed in the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba. Furthermore, the through hole 29Bah only needs to penetrate through both sides of the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba, and it does not need to be a hole surrounded by other parts. A portion around the through hole 29Bah can also reach the outer periphery of the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba via a slit. The plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba can also have the same configuration as a perforated plate-shaped terminal, referred to as an LA terminal. The fastening plate-shaped portion 23b of the rear end portion of the second power terminal 22B, opposite to the opening 51A, overlaps the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba. In this state, viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the through hole 29Bah and the fastening through hole 23bh are positioned in the same location. As an example of a fastener, a screw S is inserted into the through hole 29Bah and the fastening through hole 23bh from the side opposite to the opening 51A, and the screw S is screwed into the nut. Thus, the plate-shaped assembly 29Ba is fastened to the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b. In this state, the plate-shaped assembly 29Ba crosses the insertion / removal direction. Alternatively, the fastener may be a rivet instead of a screw. Furthermore, the fastener fastens the plate-shaped assembly 29Ba and the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b towards each other, and the direction in which the plate-shaped assembly 29Ba and the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b are joined is defined as the fastening direction. The fastening direction is the same as the direction in which the fastener is inserted into the through hole 29Bah and the fastening through hole 23bh. In this embodiment, the fastening direction is the same as the insertion / removal direction. Therefore, the fastener can be inserted into the through hole 29Bah and the fastening through hole 23bh along the insertion / removal direction. Alternatively, if the fastener is a screw, only the operation of rotating the screw about an axis along the insertion / removal direction is required.

[0108] The intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc extends from the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. In this embodiment, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc extends toward one side in the direction in which a pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. The plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc extend in the same planar shape intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0109] A power line connection portion 29Bb is provided at the end of the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc. Therefore, the second relay terminal 28B extends along a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction when viewed as a whole.

[0110] The power line connector 29Bb is the portion that connects to the power line 32. In this embodiment, the power line connector 29Bb is crimped to the core wire 31a exposed at the end of the power line 32. The power line connector 29Bb and the core wire 31a can also be connected by soldering, ultrasonic welding, or the like. The power line 32 connected to the power line connector 29Bb is electrically connected to the second power terminal 22B via the second relay terminal 28B. The power line 32 extends along a straight line from the power line connector 29Bb in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0111] The first relay terminal 28A has a plate-shaped mounting portion 29Aa, a power line connection portion 29Ab, and an intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac. With the first relay terminal 28A fixed to the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b of the first power terminal 22A, the first relay terminal 28A extends in a direction that intersects with the insertion / removal direction.

[0112] More specifically, the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa is formed in a plate shape. A through hole 29Aah is formed in the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa, similar to that of the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Ba. Like the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Ba, the shape of the outer shape of the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa and the shape of the through hole 29Aah are not particularly limited. The plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa overlaps with the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b at the rear end of the first power terminal 22A on the side opposite to the opening portion 51A. In this state, as described above, the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa is fastened to the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b using a screw S, which is an example of a fastener. In this state, the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa crosses the insertion / removal direction.

[0113] Because the first power terminal 22A and the second power terminal 22B are adjacent, the plate-shaped assembly portions 29Aa and 29Ba are disposed adjacent to each other with an open gap. In this embodiment, the plate-shaped assembly portions 29Aa and 29Ba are located at the same position in the insertion / removal direction.

[0114] The intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac extends from the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction.

[0115] A power line connection portion 29Ab is provided at the end of the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac. Therefore, the first relay terminal 28A extends along a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction when viewed as a whole.

[0116] Like power line connection 29Bb, power line connection 29Ab is a portion for connecting power line 32. By connecting power line 32 to power line connection 29Ab, power line 32 is electrically connected to first power supply terminal 22A via first relay terminal 28A. Power line 32 extends along a straight line from power line connection 29Bb in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

[0117] The pair of power lines 32 can extend in the same direction or in different directions along a direction that intersects the insertion / removal direction. In this embodiment, the pair of power lines 32 extend in the same direction along a direction that intersects the insertion / removal direction.

[0118] That is, as described above, the power line connection portion 29Bb of the second relay terminal 28B is positioned on the outer side relative to the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba, along the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. The power line connection portion 29Ab of the first relay terminal 28A is positioned parallel to the power line connection portion 29Bb. More specifically, the power line connection portion 29Ab is positioned on the inner side of the power line connection portion 29Bb. As a result, the pair of power lines 32 connected to the pair of power line connections 29Ab and 29Bb can extend in a parallel state along the direction in which the pair of power lines 32 are arranged.

[0119] The power line connection portion 29Ab of the first relay terminal 28A bypasses the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc of the second relay terminal 28B and approaches the vicinity of the power line connection portion 29Bb. Therefore, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac in the first relay terminal 28A has a structure that serves as a bypass portion.

[0120] More specifically, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac is formed as an elongated plate. One side of one end of the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac is connected to the edge of the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa opposite to the second relay terminal 28B. Thus, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac can be extended along the insertion / removal direction. By bending such an intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac in its thickness direction, when viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac can easily follow a thin and flexible path.

[0121] In this embodiment, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac includes an inclined portion 29Ac1 and an arrangement direction portion 29Ac2 (see [reference]). Figure 7 and Figure 9 The inclined portion 29Ac1 is a portion that is inclined relative to the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged, and is inclined so as to face the space between the pair of power terminals 22. The inclined portion 29Ac1 extends relative to the plate-shaped assembly portion 29Aa toward a position away from the first signal terminal 24A. The aligning direction portion 29Ac2 is a portion that bends from the end of the inclined portion 29Ac1 and extends along the direction in which the pair of power terminals 22 are arranged. The aligning direction portion 29Ac2 extends along a path that is outside the first signal terminal 24A. The aforementioned power line connection portion 29Ab is connected to the end of the aligning direction portion 29Ac2. Thus, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac passes through a meandering path that is outside the pair of power terminals 22 and the first signal terminal 24A.

[0122] In this embodiment, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac is a plate-shaped portion along the insertion / removal direction, and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc is a plate-shaped portion along a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. The relay terminal 28, in order to form a power path, needs to be a component with a cross-sectional area commensurate with the flowing current. Therefore, the width and thickness of the intermediate plate-shaped portions 29Ac and 29Bc also need to be set to correspond to the current. For example, when both sides of the intermediate plate-shaped portions 29Ac and 29Bc are aligned along a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction, a large dedicated area is required when viewing along the insertion / removal direction. By changing the extension direction of the intermediate plate-shaped portions 29Ac and 29Bc as in this embodiment, they can be easily arranged in a compact space. In particular, by making the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac, which is a detour portion and whose path length is easily lengthened, along the insertion and extraction direction, it is easy to arrange the intermediate plate-shaped portions 29Ac and 29Bc in a compact space when viewed along the insertion and extraction direction.

[0123] Furthermore, since the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac bends from the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b of the first power terminal 22A toward the cylindrical portion 23a, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac itself is housed within the length dimension of the first power terminal 22A along the insertion / removal direction. Therefore, the presence of the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac along the insertion / removal direction is unlikely to affect the enlargement of the charging connector 10 in the insertion / removal direction.

[0124] Since the aforementioned relay terminal 28 is a shape in which plate-shaped parts are connected on the same plane or a shape in which plate-shaped parts are bent, it can be formed by bending the metal plate-shaped component using stamping or the like.

[0125] The aforementioned relay terminal 28 can also be fixed to the pair of power terminals 22 by fastening the plate-shaped mounting portions 29Aa and 29Ba to the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b exposed behind the stop body 60 while the pair of power terminals 22 are held by the housing 50 and the stop body 60.

[0126] <Terminals and Walls>

[0127] The positional relationship between the walls 64 and 65 and the terminal 20 provided on the stop body 60 is explained in more detail.

[0128] like Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 9As shown, wall 64 is a wall that surrounds the first relay terminal 28A. More specifically, wall 64 is a wall that surrounds the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Aa and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac in the first relay terminal 28A. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, wall 64 is formed along the outer periphery of the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Aa and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac. By distributing the first relay terminal 28A within wall 64, rotation of the first relay terminal 28A around the screw S can be suppressed. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, wall 64 includes a portion 64a sandwiched between the first relay terminal 28A and the first signal terminal 24A and a portion 64b sandwiched between the first relay terminal 28A and the second signal terminal 24B.

[0129] Wall 65 is a wall that surrounds the second relay terminal 28B. More specifically, wall 65 is a wall that surrounds the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc in the second relay terminal 28B. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, wall 65 is formed along the outer periphery of the plate-shaped mounting portion 29Ba and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc. By configuring the second relay terminal 28B within wall 65, rotation of the second relay terminal 28B around the screw S can be restricted. Furthermore, when viewed along the insertion / removal direction, walls 64 and 65 share a portion of each other at the adjacent portions of a pair of power terminals 22. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, wall 65 includes a portion 65a sandwiched between the second relay terminal 28B and the first signal terminal 24A and a portion 65b sandwiched between the second relay terminal 28B and the second signal terminal 24B.

[0130] <Wire path in the charging connector>

[0131] like Figure 7 As shown, the power line 32 extends straight from one end connected to a pair of relay terminals 28 towards the other end within the cable sheath 90, and extends outward through an outlet into the cable sheath 90. The two power lines 32 extend within the cable sheath 90 in a Z-direction arrangement. The two power terminals 22 are housed in the housing body 51 in a Y-direction arrangement. The changing directions of the two power lines 32 and the two power terminals 22 are performed using the relay terminals 28 as described above.

[0132] One end of the signal wire 34 is inserted into the terminal holding part 53. The other end of the signal wire 34 extends from the through hole, bends and bundles together within the cable sheath 90, and faces the outlet of the cable sheath 90. More specifically, of the multiple signal wires 34, the first signal wire 34A is connected to the first signal terminal 24A located above the power terminal 22, extends from the through hole, passes between a pair of power lines 32, merges with the second signal wire 34B, and extends in the Y direction. The second signal wire 34B is connected to the second signal terminal 24B located below the power terminal 22, extends from the through hole, merges with the first signal wire 34A, and extends in the Y direction. Bundling the signal wires 34 can also be done through the guide part 58 provided on the wire pressing part 57. The guide part 58 has a pair of sidewalls 58a, and multiple signal wires 34 are arranged between these sidewalls 58a to bundle them together. In addition, multiple signal lines can also be bundled together using tape or cable ties.

[0133] One end of the ground wire 36 is inserted into the terminal retainer 53. The ground wire 36 extends from one end to the other through the through hole, bends within the sheath 90, and heads towards the outlet of the sheath 90 together with the signal wire 34. As mentioned above, the ground wire 36 is more difficult to bend than the signal wire 34, therefore, in the portion where the signal wire 34 and the ground wire 36 bend from the X direction to the Y direction, the radius of curvature of the ground wire 36 is more likely to be larger than that of the signal wire 34. By pressing the other end of the ground wire 36 with the wire pressing part 57 and the wire cover 70, excessive bulging of the ground wire 36 within the sheath 90 is prevented.

[0134] The thermistor 42 is housed together with the power terminal 22 in the housing body 51. Therefore, one end of the thermistor wire 44 is also housed in the housing body 51. The other end of the thermistor wire 44 extends outward through a through-hole toward the rear cover 62, bends within the cable sheath 90, and faces the outlet of the cable sheath 90. The portion of the thermistor wire 44 used for inserting the terminald wire 38 passes through the through-hole. The thermistor wire 44 passes between a pair of power lines 32 and extends in the Y direction together with the signal line 34.

[0135] The insertion / removal direction, the opening direction of the drain outlet 93, and the direction in which the power line 32 extends inside the sheath 90 are intersecting directions. Here, the insertion / removal direction is the X direction. The opening direction of the drain outlet 93 is the Z direction. The direction in which the power line 32 extends inside the sheath 90 is the Y direction. The insertion / removal direction, the opening direction of the drain outlet 93, and the direction in which the power line 32 extends inside the sheath 90 are orthogonal to each other, but they can also intersect at angles other than orthogonal.

[0136] <Effects, etc.>

[0137] According to the charging connector 10 configured as described above, the power line 32 extends along a straight line in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction within a sheath 90, which serves as an example of an outer casing. Therefore, space for accommodating the bent power line 32 is not required within the sheath 90. This allows for miniaturization of the charging connector 10. In particular, the change in direction of the power line 32 relative to the length direction of the power terminal 22 is achieved using a relay terminal 28 securely fixed to the power terminal 22, thus enabling miniaturization of the charging connector 10 in the insertion / removal direction. Furthermore, the thick and difficult-to-bend power line 32 is prevented from bending within the sheath 90, thus simplifying the manufacture of the charging connector 10.

[0138] In particular, if the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductor of power line 32 is 40 mm² 2 The above makes it difficult to bend the power line 32, and the space for accommodating the bent portion becomes larger. In this case, the configuration that eliminates the need to bend the power line 32 within the sheath 90 is more efficient.

[0139] In addition, the first relay terminal 28A has an intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac that extends as a detour portion that bypasses the first signal terminal 24A, thus avoiding interference with signal lines extending from the first signal terminal 24A, and the first relay terminal 28A can be configured.

[0140] In addition, the walls 64 and 65 of the stop body 60 have portions 64a, 64b, 65a, and 65b formed at positions that separate the relay terminal 28 and the signal terminal 24, thus enabling the relay terminal 28 and the signal terminal 24 to be separated by a tangible object.

[0141] In addition, the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Ac is a plate-shaped portion along the insertion / removal direction, and the intermediate plate-shaped portion 29Bc is a plate-shaped portion along the direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. Therefore, each plate-shaped portion can be arranged in a compact space along different directions, which helps to miniaturize the charging connector 10.

[0142] Furthermore, since the power line 32 is arranged along the direction of the power terminal 22, the lead-out direction of the power line 32 can be made consistent with the direction of the power terminal 22.

[0143] In addition, regarding signal line 34, because it is more flexible than power line 32, it can be easily bent within sheath 90 to change direction, and can be bundled into one and then led out.

[0144] In addition, the relay terminal 28 is fastened to the power terminal 22 using a screw S, which is an example of a fastener, so the relay terminal 28 can be easily and securely connected to the power terminal 22 using the screw S.

[0145] Furthermore, as an example of a fastener, the screw S has the same tightening direction as the insertion and removal direction. Therefore, the screw S can be inserted from the rear of the charging connector along the insertion and removal direction, and the screw S can be tightened around the axis along the insertion and removal direction, making the tightening operation easy to perform.

[0146] Furthermore, since the power terminal 22 is a bent metal plate component, in order to arrange the plate-shaped mounting portions 29Aa and 29Ba of the relay terminal 28 in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction, it is easy to realize that the fastening plate-shaped portion 23b is arranged in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction.

[0147] Furthermore, when viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the cylindrical portion 23a overlaps with the through holes 29Aah and 29Bah, thus allowing the charging connector 10 to be configured in a compact manner when viewed along the insertion / removal direction.

[0148] [Variation Example]

[0149] Figure 10 This is a rear view showing a modified example of the charging connector 110. Furthermore, in Figure 10 In this variation, some components, such as wire 30, are omitted. Furthermore, in the description of this variation, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as those described so far, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0150] exist Figure 10 The charging connector 110 shown has eight signal terminals 24. More specifically, viewed along the insertion / removal direction, four signal terminals 24 are arranged on one side and four signal terminals 24 are arranged on the other side, relative to the arrangement of the pair of power terminals 22. Furthermore, the pair of power terminals 22... Figure 10 The middle is covered by the relay terminal 28, but similarly to Embodiment 1, it is positioned corresponding to a pair of screws S. The four signal terminals 24 are positioned corresponding to the vertices of the rhombus. In addition, in this example, the ground terminal 26 is omitted. Consequently, the structure of the ground terminal 26 is omitted in the housing 150 corresponding to the housing 50 and the stop body 160 corresponding to the stop body 60.

[0151] Furthermore, the components described in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0152] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0153] 10 charging connectors

[0154] 20 terminals

[0155] 21 connector terminals

[0156] 22 power terminals (22A power terminal 1, 22B power terminal 2)

[0157] 23a cylinder section

[0158] 23b Fastening plate

[0159] 23bh Fastening Through Hole

[0160] 23c, 25c, 27c protrusions

[0161] 23d thermistor assembly section

[0162] 23e connecting section

[0163] 23p long strip

[0164] 23s slit

[0165] 24 signal terminals (24A signal terminal 1, 24B signal terminal 2)

[0166] 25a, 27a opposite side connection part

[0167] 25b and 27b wire connection parts

[0168] 26 grounding terminal

[0169] 28 trunk terminals (28A first trunk terminal, 28B second trunk terminal)

[0170] 29Aa, 29Ba Plate Assembly Part

[0171] 29Aah, 29Bah through holes

[0172] 29Ab, 29Bb power line connection parts

[0173] 29Ac, 29Bc intermediate plate-like part

[0174] 29Ac1 Inclined section

[0175] 29Ac2 Arrangement Direction Section

[0176] 30 wire

[0177] 31a core wire

[0178] 31b Covering Part

[0179] 32 power lines

[0180] 34 signal lines (34A signal line 1, 34B signal line 2)

[0181] 36 ground wire

[0182] 38 wire with terminals

[0183] 39 Shrink Tube

[0184] 40 thermistor units

[0185] 42 Thermistor

[0186] 44 Thermistor Wire

[0187] 50 housing

[0188] 51 Shell Body

[0189] 51A opening

[0190] 52 Outer Frame

[0191] 53 Terminal holding section

[0192] 54 Vehicle Assembly Department

[0193] 56 arms

[0194] 57. Wire pressing part

[0195] 58 Guidance Department

[0196] 58a sidewall

[0197] 60 stop body

[0198] 61 terminal pressing part

[0199] 62 rear cover

[0200] 63 protruding cylinder

[0201] Wall 64, 65, 66

[0202] The portions of 64a and 65a sandwiched between the relay terminal and the first signal terminal

[0203] The portions of 64b and 65b sandwiched between the relay terminal and the second signal terminal

[0204] 70 wire cover

[0205] 80 cover unit

[0206] 82 caps

[0207] 84 hinge units

[0208] 86 locking units

[0209] 90 cable sleeve

[0210] 91 First Protection Department

[0211] 92 Shell Outlet

[0212] 92a circumferential rib

[0213] 93 Drainage Outlet

[0214] 94th Protection Department 2

[0215] 95 wire outlet

[0216] 98 strapping

[0217] Assembly Department 100

[0218] 102 panel

[0219] 104 through hole

[0220] 106 body side cover

[0221] 110 charging connector

[0222] 150 housing

[0223] 160 stop body

[0224] 200 external charging connector

[0225] 210 terminal

[0226] 220 components

[0227] 230 battery

[0228] S screw

Claims

1. A charging connector mounted on a vehicle, which charges a battery of the vehicle by engaging with an external charging connector connected to an external power source of the vehicle, the charging connector comprising: The first power terminal and the second power terminal are used to supply power to the battery; The first signal terminal is disposed on one side in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged, relative to the first power terminal and the second power terminal; The second signal terminal is disposed on the other side in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged, relative to the first power terminal and the second power terminal; The housing has an opening and a terminal holding portion, through which the external charging connector is inserted and removed, and the terminal holding portion is located inside the opening when viewed along the insertion and removal direction of the external charging connector, holding the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal; The stop body is assembled with the end of the housing opposite to the opening, and together with the housing, holds the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal. The first relay terminal has a first plate-shaped mounting portion and a first power line connection portion. The first plate-shaped mounting portion has a first through hole. The first plate-shaped mounting portion is fixed to the end of the first power terminal on the side opposite to the opening in a posture extending in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction. The second relay terminal has a second plate-shaped mounting portion and a second power line connection portion. The second plate-shaped mounting portion has a second through hole. The second plate-shaped mounting portion is fixed to the end of the second power terminal on the side opposite to the opening in an attitude extending in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction. The first power line is connected to the first power line connection part and is electrically connected to the first power terminal via the first relay terminal; The second power line is connected to the second power line connection part and is electrically connected to the second power terminal via the second relay terminal; as well as An external component covers the stop, the first power terminal, the second power terminal, the first signal terminal, and the second signal terminal from the side opposite to the opening. The first power line and the second power line extend within the outer casing along a straight line that extends in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction. The first power line connection portion and the second power line connection portion are arranged in a position that allows the first power line and the second power line to extend toward one side along the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged. The first relay terminal has a detour portion, which is disposed between the first plate-shaped assembly portion and the first power line connection portion, extending in a manner that detours past the first signal terminal. The first relay terminal is configured to extend from the first plate-shaped assembly portion into the intermediate plate-shaped portion in a crisscross manner, and the first power line connection portion is disposed at the end of the intermediate plate-shaped portion on the side opposite to the first plate-shaped assembly portion. The intermediate plate-shaped portion is a plate-shaped portion along the insertion / removal direction, and is the detour portion.

2. The charging connector according to claim 1, wherein, The stop body has a wall surrounding the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal. The wall, viewed along the insertion / removal direction, is formed at a position that separates the first relay terminal or the second relay terminal from the first signal terminal or the second signal terminal.

3. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, One of the first relay terminal and the second relay terminal includes a plate-like portion along the insertion / removal direction. The first relay terminal and the other of the second relay terminals include a plate-like portion in a direction intersecting the insertion / removal direction.

4. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first power line and the second power line extend along the direction in which the first power terminal and the second power terminal are arranged.

5. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, It also has: The first signal line is connected to the first signal terminal; and The second signal line is connected to the second signal terminal. The first signal line and the second signal line are bent and bundled together within the outer casing.

6. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, It also has: The first fastener is inserted through the first through hole to fasten the first plate-shaped assembly to the end of the first power terminal on the side opposite to the opening. and The second fastener is inserted through the second through hole to secure the second plate-shaped assembly to the end of the second power terminal opposite to the opening.

7. The charging connector according to claim 6, wherein, The fastening direction of the first fastener and the second fastener is the same as the insertion / removal direction.

8. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first power terminal and the second power terminal are metal plate-shaped components bent into components that can arrange the first plate-shaped assembly and the second plate-shaped assembly in a direction intersecting the insertion and removal direction.

9. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first power terminal has a first cylindrical portion into which the opposite terminal is inserted. The second power terminal has a second cylindrical portion into which the opposite terminal is inserted. When viewed along the insertion / removal direction, the first cylindrical portion overlaps with the first through hole, and the second cylindrical portion overlaps with the second through hole.

10. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first and second power lines include those with a cross-sectional area of ​​40 mm². 2 The above conductors.

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