Connector device

Abstract

The connector rod is rotatable between a first position and a second position, and can slide between a second position and a third position. When the connector is in the first position and in a ready-to-fit position relative to the mating connector, if the rod is rotated to the second position, the connector is pulled closer to the mating position of the mating connector via a cam mechanism, and the main terminal of the connector connects with the mating main terminal of the mating connector. If the rod is slid to the third position, the flange portion of the connector housing and the mating flange portion of the mating housing of the mating connector are housed in a mutually tight fit within the groove portion of the rod and held by the rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a connector device for engaging and disengaging the connector and the mating side connector by means of rotation and sliding of a rod. Background Technology

[0002] Figure 1 The existing example of such a connector device is shown in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-100382), in which a connector housing 11 is mounted to another connector housing 21 by operating a rod 12 mounted on a connector housing 11.

[0003] A terminal cover portion 11a is provided at the bottom of the connector housing 11, and a pair of terminals (male terminals) 13 are provided inside the terminal cover portion 11a. A pair of guide pins 11b are provided on the outer wall of the connector housing 11, which respectively engage with the guide groove 14 of the rod 12 described later.

[0004] like Figure 2A , 2B As shown, the rod 12 includes a pair of arm plates 12a and 12b and an operating portion 12c connecting the pair of arm plates 12a and 12b. Guide grooves 14 extending horizontally are provided in the pair of arm plates 12a and 12b. A pair of guide pins 11b of the connector housing 11 are respectively inserted into each guide groove 14, thereby enabling the rod 12 to be rotatably and linearly movable relative to the connector housing 11.

[0005] In addition, cam grooves 15 are provided on a pair of arm plate portions 12a, 12b. When a connector housing 11 is installed on another connector housing 21, the cam pin 21a of the other connector housing 21 (described later) is inserted into a pair of cam grooves 15.

[0006] Furthermore, in this example, one of the pair of arm plate portions 12a and 12b is wider than the other, and a connector portion 12d is provided in the wider arm plate portion 12b, and a mating detection male terminal 16 is provided in the connector portion 12d.

[0007] Another connector housing 21 has a generally cuboid shape with its upper surface exposed, and its internal space is the mounting space 21b of the connector housing 11. A terminal cover storage portion 21c is provided on the bottom part of the mounting space 21b, which is the lower surface, and a pair of terminals (female terminals) 22 are stored in the terminal cover storage portion 21c.

[0008] A pair of cam pins 21a protrude symmetrically from the inner peripheral wall of the connector housing 21, and a connector portion 21d is provided within the mounting space 21b. A pair of mating detection female terminals 23 (see description below) are provided in the connector portion 21d. Figure 4A , 4B ).

[0009] Figure 3A , 3B 3C will be Figure 1 The state of the lever 12 during the process of installing one connector housing 11 into the mounting space 21b of the other connector housing 21, before the first connector housing 11 is installed into the other connector housing 21, is shown together with the cam pin 21a of the other connector housing 21. Figure 3A Indicator rod 12 from Figure 1 The state shown is where the rotation starts in the direction of arrow a and is located between the starting and ending positions. Figure 3B This indicates that lever 12 is in the final rotation position. Additionally, Figure 3C This indicates that rod 12 has slid along the direction of arrow b and is in the final engagement position.

[0010] The cam pin 21a of the other connector housing 21 that enters the cam groove 15 of the rod 12 moves within the cam groove 15 as the rod 12 rotates. As a result, one connector housing 11 gradually approaches and moves into the other connector housing 21. Through this approaching movement, the terminals 13 and 22 of the two connector housings 11 and 21 are in contact until the rod 12 is in the end position of rotation.

[0011] Next, slide the rod 12 in the direction of arrow b. If it slides from the end of rotation position to the end of engagement position, the male terminal 16 for engagement detection of the rod 12 contacts a pair of female terminals 23 for engagement detection of the other connector housing 21 until the rod 12 is in the end of engagement position. Figure 4A , 4B The indicator rod 12 is in the engagement end position, indicating that the installation of one connector housing 11 onto another connector housing 21 is complete.

[0012] Thus, the operation of lever 12 consists of two actions: rotation and sliding. After the rotation, the sliding action causes the male terminal 16 for engagement detection to contact the female terminal 23 for engagement detection, thereby enabling engagement detection. As a result, the power circuit becomes conductive for the first time, and current flows between terminals 13 and 22.

[0013] In addition, the operation of lever 12, which changes the power circuit from the on state to the off state, consists of two opposite actions: the power circuit is cut off by the previous sliding operation, and the terminals 13 and 22 are separated by the subsequent rotation operation.

[0014] The connector device with the above-described operation can prevent the power circuit from becoming conductive before the rod operation ends. In addition, it can prevent the occurrence of arc discharge. As a connector device for high voltage and high current, safety has been taken into consideration.

[0015] However, this type of high-voltage, high-current connector device is also used in electric vehicles for connections such as batteries and cable harnesses, ensuring operator safety when maintaining electrical systems.

[0016] However, when used in vehicles, if the connector and the mating connector move relative to each other due to vibration, the parts of the connector and the mating connector will rub against each other, resulting in problems such as deterioration of quality or connection performance. Summary of the Invention

[0017] The object of the present invention is to provide a connector device that, in view of the problem, can prevent the deterioration of quality or connection performance even when used in a vibrating environment.

[0018] The technical details described herein are not intended to explicitly or implicitly limit the scope of the invention, nor are they intended to limit the invention to anyone other than those who benefit from the invention (e.g., the applicant and the patentee). They are merely provided to facilitate understanding of the spirit of the invention. The general outline of the invention from other perspectives can be understood, for example, based on the scope of the technical solution at the time of the patent application.

[0019] The connector device of the present invention includes a first connector and a second connector.

[0020] The first connector includes a housing and a rod. The housing of the first connector has a first lug (also referred to as a "flange" in this specification). The first lug has a flat surface.

[0021] The rod of the first connector has a groove.

[0022] The second connector includes a housing. The housing of the second connector has a second lug (also referred to in this specification as the "mating side flange"). The second lug has a flat surface.

[0023] The lever is rotated from the first position to the second position, thereby engaging the first connector with the second connector. In this engaged state, the flat surfaces of the first gripper and the flat surfaces of the second gripper are in close contact with each other.

[0024] The lever is slidably operated from the second position to the third position, whereby the first and second grips are housed in the slot of the lever in a mutually fitted state. Ideally, the mechanical backlash between the mutually fitted first and second grips and the slot of the lever is as minimal as possible in the direction of engagement between the first and second connectors.

[0025] This structure prevents relative movement between the first connector and the second connector, especially relative movement between the first connector and the second connector in the direction in which the first connector and the second connector are engaged.

[0026] Preferably, the connector device is not limited to this and may also include a locking mechanism that prevents the sliding operation of the lever. Because the sliding operation of the lever is prevented by the locking mechanism, the pair of mutually engaging first and second levers are reliably held in the groove of the lever.

[0027] Preferably, the rod is not limited thereto, and also has a pair of arms, one arm having a groove at each of two different locations along its long side, and the other arm having a groove at each of two different locations along its long side. Each of these four grooves is also designed to accommodate a set of first and second grippers that fit together in close contact. This structure provides a stable and robust defense against relative movement between the first and second connectors.

[0028] The term "shell" is not limited to an object narrowly interpreted according to its dictionary definition. That is, "shell" is not limited to an object that only has the function based on the dictionary definition of the term (wherein, the object can be a single element or composed of two or more elements), nor is it limited to a part of a single object that has the function based on the dictionary definition of the term. "Shell" can be an object that only has the function based on the dictionary definition of the term, or it can be an object that has a function not based on the dictionary definition of the term, or it can be an object that has other functions besides those based on the dictionary definition of the term, or it can be a single object comprising parts that have the function based on the dictionary definition of the term and parts that do not have the function based on the dictionary definition of the term.

[0029] Invention Effects

[0030] According to the connector device of the present invention, a connector device with excellent vibration resistance can be obtained, which can prevent relative movement (vibration) between the outer shell of the connector and the mating side shell of the mating connector. Therefore, even when used in a vibration environment, the quality or connection performance will not deteriorate. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an existing example of a connector device.

[0032] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of the rod in the diagram.

[0033] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 Side view of the rod in the middle.

[0034] Figure 3A This is the main view showing the state of the rod between the start and end positions of the rotation.

[0035] Figure 3B This is the front view showing the state of the rod at the end of its rotation.

[0036] Figure 3C This is the front view showing the state of the lever in the final engagement position.

[0037] Figure 4A It means Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the connector assembly in its final installed state.

[0038] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0039] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the connector device of the present invention viewed from above the connector of Embodiment 1.

[0040] Figure 5B From Figure 5A A perspective view of the connector from below.

[0041] Figure 6A This is a front view of the mating side connector of Embodiment 1 of the connector device of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6B From Figure 6A A perspective view of the mating connector from the front side.

[0043] Figure 6C From Figure 6A A perspective view of the back side of the mating connector shown.

[0044] Figure 7A yes Figure 5A The front view of the outer shell.

[0045] Figure 7B yes Figure 5A The right-side view of the outer shell.

[0046] Figure 7C From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view taken from above the outer shell.

[0047] Figure 7D From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view taken from below the outer shell.

[0048] Figure 8A yes Figure 5A A top view of the rod in the image.

[0049] Figure 8B yes Figure 5A The front view of the rod in the image.

[0050] Figure 8C From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the rod viewed from the front side and above.

[0051] Figure 8D From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the rod from the front side and below.

[0052] Figure 8E From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view taken from the upper side of the back of the rod.

[0053] Figure 8F From Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the back side of the rod.

[0054] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the state of the connector in the engagement preparation position in Embodiment 1 of the connector device of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 10 It indicates that the lever is from Figure 9 The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of the state after rotation to the second position.

[0056] Figure 11 It indicates that the lever is from Figure 10 The image shows a 3D view of the state when the device slides to the third position.

[0057] Figure 12 It means from Figure 11 The image shown is a 3D view of the state in which the locking component is pressed in.

[0058] Figure 13A yes Figure 9 A top view showing the state.

[0059] Figure 13B yes Figure 13A The right-side view.

[0060] Figure 13C yes Figure 13A Enlarged sectional view of the D-D line.

[0061] Figure 14A It indicates that the lever is from Figure 9 The diagram shows a top view of the state when the device is rotated to an intermediate position between the first and second positions.

[0062] Figure 14B yes Figure 14A The right-side view.

[0063] Figure 14C yes Figure 14A Enlarged sectional view of the D-D line.

[0064] Figure 15A yes Figure 10 A top view showing the state.

[0065] Figure 15B yes Figure 15A The right-side view.

[0066] Figure 15C yes Figure 15A Enlarged sectional view of the D-D line.

[0067] Figure 16A yes Figure 10 A top view showing the state.

[0068] Figure 16B yes Figure 16A The D-D line sectional view.

[0069] Figure 16C yes Figure 16A Sectional view along line E-E.

[0070] Figure 17A yes Figure 11 A top view showing the state.

[0071] Figure 17B yes Figure 17A The D-D line sectional view.

[0072] Figure 17C yes Figure 17A Sectional view along line E-E.

[0073] Figure 18A yes Figure 12 A top view showing the state.

[0074] Figure 18B yes Figure 18A The C-C line sectional view.

[0075] Figure 19A This is a diagram showing a first shape example of the flange portion, the mating side flange portion, and the groove portion.

[0076] Figure 19B This is a diagram showing a second shape example of the flange portion, the mating side flange portion, and the groove portion.

[0077] Figure 19C This is a diagram showing a third shape example of the flange portion, the mating side flange portion, and the groove portion.

[0078] Figure 20A This is a perspective view of the connector device of the present invention viewed from above the connector of Embodiment 2.

[0079] Figure 20B From Figure 20A A perspective view of the connector from below.

[0080] Figure 21A This is a front view of the mating side connector of Embodiment 2 of the connector device of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 21B From Figure 21A A perspective view of the mating connector from the front side.

[0082] Figure 21C From Figure 21A A perspective view of the back side of the mating connector shown.

[0083] Figure 22A yes Figure 20A Side view of the rod in the middle.

[0084] Figure 22B yes Figure 20A The back view of the rod in the middle.

[0085] Figure 22C From Figure 20A A three-dimensional view of the rod viewed from the front side and above.

[0086] Figure 22D From Figure 20A A three-dimensional view of the back side of the rod.

[0087] Figure 22E yes Figure 22A Sectional view along line F-F.

[0088] Figure 23 It means Figure 20A The connectors shown are Figure 21A The diagram shows a perspective view of the mating connector before it is engaged.

[0089] Figure 24 It means Figure 20A The connectors shown are Figure 21A A perspective view of the mating connector in its completed connection state.

[0090] Figure 25A It means Figure 20A The connectors shown are Figure 21A The top view shows the mating connector engaged, with the rod rotated to the second position.

[0091] Figure 25B yes Figure 25A The C-C line sectional view.

[0092] Figure 26A It indicates that the lever is from Figure 25AThe top view of the state shown is when the device slides to the third position.

[0093] Figure 26B yes Figure 26A The C-C line sectional view.

[0094] Figure 27A This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the state of the interlocking housing when the connector is in the engagement preparation position in Embodiment 2 of the connector device of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 27B It indicates that the lever is from Figure 27A The image shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the state rotated to the second position.

[0096] Figure 28A It indicates that the lever is from Figure 27B The image shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the state when the plane has slid to the third position.

[0097] Figure 28B This indicates that the interlocked outer shell is from Figure 28A The image shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the state where the object has slid to the closed position. Detailed Implementation

[0098] The embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0099] Example 1

[0100] Figure 5A , 5B 6A, 6B, and 6C respectively represent connector 100 and mating-side connector 200 of embodiment 1 constituting the connector device of the present invention. The connector device composed of connector 100 and mating-side connector 200 is a high-voltage, high-current connector device with HVIL (High-Voltage Inter Lock) and is used for automotive applications.

[0101] exist Figure 5A , 5B In this diagram, 30 represents the housing, 40 represents the rod, and 300 represents the cable. Connector 100 is mounted at the ends of the two cables 300 in this example. The housing 30 houses main terminals 50 that connect to the two cables 300 respectively, and also houses interlocking terminals 60. Additionally, a locking element 70 for CPA (Connector Position Assurance) is mounted on the rod 40. Figure 5A In the text, 80 indicates the cable cover installed on the housing 30.

[0102] First, the structure of the housing 30 and the rod 40 of the connector 100 will be described.

[0103] like Figure 7A , 7B As shown in Figures 7C and 7D, the housing 30 generally consists of a fitting portion 31 and a cable storage portion 32 located behind the fitting portion 31. The fitting portion 31 has two storage portions 33 with large openings on their lower surfaces, each housing a main terminal 50. In addition to the storage portions 33, there is also a storage portion 34 with an opening on its lower surface, which houses an interlocking terminal 60.

[0104] A pair of guide shafts 35 are formed on two sides protruding outward from each other, approximately at the center of the fitting portion 31 in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, a pair of flange portions 36 are formed on two sides protruding outward from each other on the front side of the fitting portion 31 (the side opposite to the side where the cable storage portion 32 is located). Additionally, a pair of flange portions 37 are formed on both sides of the housing 30, spanning the fitting portion 31 and the cable storage portion 32, and protruding outward from each other. These four flange portions 36 and 37 form protrusions extending along the front-rear direction of the housing 30.

[0105] A groove 38 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 30, which extends from the rear end of the cable storage part 32 to the fitting part 31 in the front-rear direction. A protrusion 38a is formed in the groove 38 on the front end side of the groove 38.

[0106] like Figure 8A , 8B As shown in 8C, 8D, 8E, and 8F, the rod 40 is composed of a pair of plate-shaped arms 41 and a connecting portion 42 connecting the upper ends of the base ends of the pair of arms 41. Guide grooves 43 extending along the elongation direction of the arms 41 are formed in each of the pair of arms 41, and cam grooves 44 are also formed in each pair. Figure 8A , 8B As shown in 8C, 8D, 8E, and 8F, the cam groove 44 is formed in a curved shape, with its front end located at the front end of the arm 41.

[0107] Grooves 45 are formed on the inner surfaces of the front ends of the two arm portions 41, and grooves 46 are formed on the inner surfaces of the base ends. These four grooves 45 and 46 form a generally recessed shape extending along the extension direction of the arm portions 41. On the other hand, a mounting portion 47 for mounting the locking part 70 is formed on the upper surface at the center of the extension direction of the connecting portion 42.

[0108] A locking part 70 is mounted on the rod 40 having the above-described structure. For the rod 40 with the locking part 70 mounted, a pair of guide shafts 35 of the housing 30 are respectively inserted into and located in the guide slots 43 of a pair of arms 41, which are mounted on the housing 30 through the housing 30. The rod 40 is rotatable relative to the housing 30 between a first position and a second position, as described later, and is slidable between the second position and a third position. Figure 5A , 5B This indicates that lever 40 is in the first position.

[0109] On the other hand, in indicating the mating side connector 200 Figure 6A , 6B In 6C, 110 represents the mating-side housing, and 120 represents the mating-side main terminal. Additionally, 130 represents the mating-side interlock terminal. The mating-side connector 200 is mounted on the substrate.

[0110] The mating-side housing 110 includes a plate portion 111 and a frame-shaped fitting portion 112 that forms an upward opening and protrudes from the plate portion 111. On the frame-shaped peripheral wall 112a of the fitting portion 112, a pair of driven protrusions 113 are formed on the outer surfaces of the left and right portions, protruding outwards from each other. Furthermore, the rearward-facing portion of the peripheral wall 112a is cut into by a cutout 114. A pair of mating-side main terminals 120 are housed within the fitting portion 112, and mating-side interlocking terminals 130 are housed within the fitting portion 112 on the cutout 114 side.

[0111] On the plate portion 111 of the mating-side outer shell 110, there are also a pair of mating-side flange portions 115 and 116. These four mating-side flange portions 115 and 116 are formed at the upper ends of the upright portions 117 and 118 that rise vertically from the plate portion 111, respectively. The pair of mating-side flange portions 115 are located on the left and right sides of the fitted portion 112 on the front side, and the pair of mating-side flange portions 116 are located on the left and right sides of the fitted portion 112 on the rear side. The pair of mating-side flange portions 115 and the pair of mating-side flange portions 116 are structures that protrude outward from each other in the left-right direction.

[0112] Next, the engagement operation of the connector 100 and the mating side connector 200 will be described.

[0113] Connector 100 and mating side connector 200 complete the mating process through states 1 to 5. Figure 9 , 10 11 and 12 represent the appearance under states 1, 3 to 5. Figure 13A , 13B 13C, 14A, 14B, 14C, 15A, 15B, and 15C represent the main details of states 1 through 3. Additionally, Figure 16A , 16B 16C, 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, and 18B represent the main details of states 3 through 5.

[0114] Status 1: Figure 9 , 13A 13B, 13C

[0115] In state 1, the engaging portion 31 of the connector 100's housing 30 is engaged with the engaging portion 112 of the mating-side housing 110 of the mating-side connector 200, with the rod 40 in the first position. The connector 100 is in a ready-to-engage position relative to the mating-side connector 200, and a pair of driven protrusions 113 of the mating-side connector 200 are respectively engaged in the cam grooves 44 of the rod 40 of the connector 100. In this state 1, the main terminal 50 and the mating-side main terminal 120 are not connected, nor are the interlocking terminal 60 and the mating-side interlocking terminal 130.

[0116] State 2: Figure 14A , 14B 14C>

[0117] State 2 is the state where the lever 40 is rotated to an intermediate position between the first and second positions. Through the cam mechanism formed by the cam groove 44 of the lever 40 and the driven protrusion 113 of the mating-side connector 200 entering the cam groove 44, the connector 100 is pulled towards the mating-side connector 200, moving to the main terminal contact start position between the engagement preparation position and the engagement position. Thus, the main terminal 50 and the mating-side main terminal 120... Figure 14C The connection is as shown, i.e., the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120 are connected during the period when the rod 40 reaches the second position.

[0118] Furthermore, when the connector 100 is in the middle position with the rod 40 in the main terminal contact start position relative to the mating side connector 200 in state 2, if the rod 40 is rotated to the first position, the connector 100 is pushed back by the cam mechanism, leaving the main terminal contact start position and moving to the mating preparation position. When the connector 100 leaves the main terminal contact start position, the connection between the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120 is released.

[0119] State 3: Figure 10 , 15A ,15B,15C,16A,16B,16C>

[0120] State 3 is the state where rod 40 has rotated to the end of its rotation, i.e., the second position. Connector 100 is further pulled towards the mating connector 200 via the cam mechanism, moving to a position close to the mating connector 200. The connection between main terminal 50 and mating main terminal 120 is maintained. In state 3, as... Figure 15C As shown, the interlock terminal 60 is connected to the mating side interlock terminal 130, thereby detecting the engagement.

[0121] Furthermore, when the connector 100 is in the second position with the lever 40 in the engaged position relative to the mating side connector 200 in state 3, if the lever 40 is rotated to the middle position, the connector 100 leaves the engaged position and moves to the main terminal contact start position. When the connector 100 leaves the engaged position, the connection between the interlock terminal 60 and the mating side interlock terminal 130 is released while maintaining the connection between the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120.

[0122] The locking part 70, installed on the rod 40 for CPA, is in state 3, as follows: Figure 15C , 16B As shown, the front end of the locking piece 71 abuts against the locking part 48 provided on the rod 40, thereby preventing the locking part 70 from being pressed in the direction of arrow a.

[0123] Regarding the four flange portions 36 and 37 provided on the housing 30 of the connector 100 and the four mating side flange portions 115 and 116 provided on the mating side housing 110 of the mating side connector 200, in this state 3, the corresponding flange portions are tightly fitted together. Figure 16C This indicates the state.

[0124] Status 4: Figure 11 , 17A 17B, ​​17C

[0125] State 4 is the state where rod 40 slides from the second position to the third position, and the flanges 36 and 37 of the housing 30 of connector 100 and the mating flanges 115 and 116 of the mating housing 110 of mating connector 200 are in a mutually tight fit. Figure 17C The grooves 45 and 46 of a pair of arms 41 extending along the sliding direction (the extension direction of the arm 41) formed on the rod 40, namely the flanges 36 and 37 and the mating flanges 115 and 116, are clamped by the rod 40 in a mutually close state.

[0126] Furthermore, if the rod 40 of the connector 100, which is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector 200, is slid from the third position to the second position, the clamping of the rod 40 on the flanges 36, 37 and the mating side flanges 115, 116 is released.

[0127] On the other hand, the front end of the locking piece 71 of the locking component 70 slides from the second position to the third position via the rod 40. Figure 17B As shown, the protrusion 38a provided on the outer casing 30 is reached, thereby releasing the contact with the locking part 48, and making it a state that can be pressed in the direction of arrow a.

[0128] Status 5: Figure 12 , 18A 18B

[0129] State 5 is the state in which the locking part 70 is pressed in along the direction of arrow a, and the front end of the locking piece 71 of the locking part 70 is as follows: Figure 18B As shown, the locking part 48 is located at the front end of the lever 40, thereby locking the lever 40 and preventing it from sliding, thus achieving CPA.

[0130] Furthermore, the locking of lever 40 can be released by stretching locking part 70 in the opposite direction to arrow a.

[0131] As described above, the structure and mating operation of Embodiment 1 of the connector device of the present invention, which consists of connector 100 and mating side connector 200, have been explained. After the main terminal 50 for high current and mating side main terminal 120 are connected, the interlock terminal 60 for HVIL and mating side interlock terminal 130 are connected and closed by the HVIL circuit. A circuit device in which a high current flows between the main terminal 50 and mating side main terminal 120 is provided outside the connector device.

[0132] The connector device according to Embodiment 1 described above can achieve the following effects.

[0133] That is, the rod 40 rotates and slides. The connector 100 and the mating side connector 200 are engaged by rotating from the first position to the second position. The rotation of the rod 40 is then prevented by sliding from the second position to the third position, i.e., the engagement is locked. However, in this example, during the sliding of the rod 40 from the second position to the third position, the flanges 36 and 37 and the mating side flanges 115 and 116 are clamped in a mutually close state and stored in the grooves 45 and 46 provided on the rod 40. Thus, the housing 30 of the connector 100 and the mating side housing 110 of the mating side connector 200 are firmly clamped by the rod 40.

[0134] Therefore, it can prevent relative movement (vibration) between connector 100 and mating connector 200, and can prevent the shells from rubbing and peeling off due to vibration, or the terminals from rubbing and peeling off, plating peeling off, etc. Therefore, it can achieve excellent vibration resistance, and can achieve a connector device with no deterioration in quality or connection performance even when used in a vibrating environment.

[0135] Furthermore, regarding the flanges 36 and 37, the mating flanges 115 and 116, and the grooves 45 and 46 of the rod 40, it is preferable that the cross-sectional shapes of the connector 100 in the engaged position relative to the mating connector 200, orthogonal to the sliding direction of the rod 40, are shapes that expand in a direction away from the housing 30 and the mating housing 110, which are the protrusion directions of the flanges 36 and 37 and the mating flanges 115 and 116. This makes the clamping of the flanges 36 and 37 and the mating flanges 115 and 116 by the grooves 45 and 46 more reliable, preventing, for example, the rod 40 from moving in the width direction (the left-right direction orthogonal to the sliding direction) and falling off.

[0136] Figure 19A The cross-sectional shape described above is exemplified for the portion of the groove 45 that holds the flange 36 and the mating flange 115.

[0137] Furthermore, the shape is not limited to making the clamping of the grooves 45 and 46 onto the flanges 36 and 37 and the mating flanges 115 and 116 more reliable. Figure 19A The cross-sectional shape illustrated in the example can also be used. Figure 19B , 19C The cross-sectional shape is shown in the example.

[0138] Figure 19B In this configuration, protrusions 36a and 115a are formed on the mutually opposite outer surfaces of the protruding front ends of the flange portion 36 and the mating flange portion 115, and protrusion 45a is formed on the mutually opposing inner surfaces of the opening portion of the groove portion 45. Furthermore, Figure 19C In the middle, Figure 19A The groove 45 shown and Figure 19B The flange portion 36 shown is combined with the mating side flange portion 115. The cross-sectional shapes of the protrusions 36a, 115a, and 45a are not limited to those shown. Figure 19B , 19C The shape shown can also be square, trapezoidal, or triangular.

[0139] Furthermore, in this example, four slots 45 and 46 are provided on the rod 40 to clamp the outer shell 30 of the connector 100 and the mating side outer shell 110 of the mating side connector 200 in four directions around the fitting portion 31 of the outer shell 30. However, the number of slots, i.e. the number of flange portions and mating side flange portions provided on the outer shell 30 and the mating side outer shell 110, is not limited to four.

[0140] Example 2

[0141] Figure 20A , 20B21A, 21B, and 21C respectively represent the connector 400 and the mating-side connector 500 constituting the connector device of Embodiment 2. The parts of the connector 400 and the mating-side connector 500 are marked with the same reference numerals as those in Embodiment 1, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0142] In this example, the rod 40 of connector 400 rotates in the opposite direction to that of embodiment 1, that is, in a direction away from cable 300. In addition, the interlocking terminal 60 of connector 400 is housed in interlocking housing 90 mounted on housing 30 in this example.

[0143] The housing 30 of the connector 400 is composed of a mating portion 31, a cable storage portion 32, and a mounting portion 39 located on the front surface of the mating portion 31. A pair of guide shafts 35 are formed on both sides of the mating portion 31, and a pair of flange portions 36 are formed on both sides of the front side of the mating portion 31, and a pair of flange portions 37 are formed on both sides of the rear side of the mating portion 31. The mounting portion 39 is the part for mounting the interlock housing 90, and is formed into a generally cylindrical shape that opens in the upward and downward direction. In the mounting portion 39, at the middle in the upward and downward direction, a pair of slits 39a are formed at opposite positions, extending from the front end of the mounting portion 39 toward the rear.

[0144] like Figure 22A , 22B As shown in 22C, 22D, and 22E, the rod 40 includes a pair of arms 41, a connecting portion 42 connecting the base ends of the pair of arms 41, and an operating portion 49 located on the side opposite to the arms 41, separated by the connecting portion 42. The operating portion 49 is located at the lower end of the connecting portion 42, and a pair of reinforcing walls 49a extending in the vertical direction are located at both ends of the operating portion 49 in the width direction and are disposed across the connecting portion 42 and the operating portion 49.

[0145] A guide groove 43 and a cam groove 44 are formed on a pair of arms 41 respectively. Furthermore, grooves 46 are formed on the inner surfaces of the front ends of the two arms 41 respectively, and grooves 45 are also formed on the inner surfaces of the base ends. In addition, in this example, the grooves 45 are formed into slits that open to the outer surface of the arms 41.

[0146] In the connecting portion 42, an opening 42a is formed on the lower half side, and an opening 49b communicating with the opening 42a is also formed in the operating portion 49. Wall portions 49c extending in the vertical direction are formed on both sides of the opening 49b in the width direction of the operating portion 49, and sliding insertion portions 49d protrude from the inner surfaces of these wall portions 49c. The sliding insertion portion 49d is a protrusion extending along the elongation direction of the arm portion 41, and a cutout 49e is provided in the middle of its elongation direction.

[0147] The interlock housing 90 includes a cylindrical portion 91 and an operating portion 92 located at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 91 and covering the cylindrical portion 91. The detailed structure of the interlock housing 90 and the installation state of the housing 30 toward the mounting portion 39 will be described later.

[0148] Similar to Embodiment 1, the rod 40 is mounted on the housing 30, and relative to the housing 30, the first position, the second position, and the third position are selected, just as in Embodiment 1. Figure 20A , 20B This indicates that lever 40 is in the first position.

[0149] The mating connector 500 is mounted on the substrate, such as... Figure 21A , 21B As shown in Figure 21C, the mating-side housing 110 of the mating-side connector 500 includes a plate portion 111 and a mating portion 112 located on the plate portion 111. A pair of driven protrusions 113 are formed on the peripheral wall 112a of the mating portion 112. In this example, each pair of mating-side flange portions 115, 116 are formed and provided by protruding from the peripheral wall 112a. A pair of mating-side main terminals 120 are housed within the mating portion 112.

[0150] On the side opposite to the front of the fitted portion 112, i.e., the side where the cutout 114 is located on the peripheral wall 112a, a mounting portion 119 is formed protruding from the plate portion 111. The mounting portion 119 is formed into an upwardly opening cylindrical shape, and the mating interlock terminal 130 is mounted and fixed to the mounting portion 119.

[0151] Next, the engagement operation of the aforementioned connector 400 and mating side connector 500 will be explained.

[0152] The mating process of connector 400 and mating side connector 500 can be described according to four states A to D. Figure 23 This shows the appearance of connector 400 before it is mated with the mating connector 500 (before state A). Figure 24 This describes the appearance of state D, indicating the end of the interlocking process. Additionally, Figure 25A , 25B 26A and 26B represent the main details under states B and C, respectively. Figure 27A , 27B 28A and 28B represent the states of the interlocked outer casing 90 under states A to D.

[0153] Status A: Figure 27A >

[0154] State A is characterized by the connector 400's housing 30 engaging with the mating portion 31 of the connector 400's housing 30 in the first position, and the mating portion 112 of the mating side connector 500's mating side housing 110 engaging with the mating portion 112. The connector 400 is in a ready-to-engage position relative to the mating side connector 500, and a pair of driven protrusions 113 of the mating side connector 500 are respectively inserted into the cam grooves 44 of the connector 400's rod 40. In State A, the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120 are not connected.

[0155] The interlocking housing 90, which is slidably mounted between the open and closed positions on the mounting portion 39 of the housing 30 of the connector 400, consists of an outwardly protruding protrusion 93a at the front end (lower end) of a pair of springs 93 formed by adding a cut to the cylindrical portion 91. The protrusion is in its natural position and, as if... Figure 27A The state shown is that the interlock housing 90 enters the gap 39a of the mounting part 39. As a result, even if the operating part 92 of the interlock housing 90 is pressed, it cannot be pressed down because the protrusion 93a abuts against the abutment surface 39b formed by the inner surface of the lower side of the gap 39a. That is, the sliding of the interlock terminal 60 of the connector 400 and the mating side interlock terminal 130 of the mating side connector 500 toward the closed position of mutual connection is prevented.

[0156] Status B: Figure 25A , 25B 27B

[0157] State B is the state in which the lever 40 rotates from the first position to the second position. The connector 400 is pulled to the mating position relative to the mating side connector 500 by the cam mechanism. The main terminal 50 of the connector 400 and the mating side main terminal 120 of the mating side connector 500 are connected during the period when the lever 40 reaches the second position.

[0158] Similar to state A, the interlock housing 90 is in the open position, and connector 400 is close to the mating side connector 500. Figure 27B As shown, the interlock terminal 60 and the mating side interlock terminal 130 are not connected but are separated from each other.

[0159] In this state, the corresponding flanges 36 and 37 of the housing 30 of the connector 400 and the four mating flanges 115 and 116 of the mating housing 110 of the mating connector 500 are in close contact with each other. Figure 25B This indicates the state.

[0160] State C: Figure 26A , 26B 28A>

[0161] State C is the state where rod 40 slides from the second position to the third position, and the pair of sliding insertion portions 49d of rod 40 enter the gap 39a of the mounting portion 39 of housing 30. Thus, as... Figure 28A As shown, the protrusions 93a of a pair of springs 93 of the interlock housing 90 are pressed by the pressing part 49f at the front end of the sliding insertion part 49d (see reference). Figure 22A , 22B Pressing (22C, 22D, 22E) displaces the interlock housing 90 from its natural position to its retracted position. Thus, the interlock housing 90, slidably mounted on the mounting portion 39 of the housing 30 between the selected open and closed positions, can slide towards the closed position.

[0162] By sliding the rod 40, the flanges 36 and 37 of the housing 30 of the connector 400 and the mating flanges 115 and 116 of the mating housing 110 of the mating connector 500 are in a mutually tight fit. Figure 26B The grooves 45 and 46 shown are housed in the rod 40 and are held by the rod 40.

[0163] State D: Figure 24 , 28B >

[0164] State D is the state in which the interlock housing 90, which is in the open position in state C, is pressed in by the pressing of its operating part 92, slides, and is in the closed position. The interlock terminal 60 and the mating side interlock terminal 130 are as follows: Figure 28B The interconnections shown indicate that interlocking was detected.

[0165] Furthermore, with the interlock housing 90 pressed down and in the closed position (details omitted), the rod 40 is fixed in the third position and prevented from sliding back to the second position by the pair of rod sliding stop portions formed outwardly in the cylindrical portion 91 of the interlock housing 90 entering the cutout 49e provided in the sliding insertion portion 49d of the rod 40 through the outwardly protruding cylindrical portion 91 of the interlock housing 90.

[0166] As described above, the connector device of Embodiment 2 has been explained, but the same effect as the connector device of Embodiment 1 can also be obtained in the connector device of Embodiment 2.

[0167] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the connection and separation of the HVIL are performed by pressing down and lifting the interlock housing 90, which is separate from the rod 40. That is, the connection of the HVIL is performed by rotating the rod 40 to connect the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120, then sliding the rod 40 to press down the interlock housing 90. Conversely, the separation of the main terminal 50 and the mating side main terminal 120 is performed by lifting the interlock housing 90 to separate the HVIL, then sliding the rod 40, and then rotating it.

[0168] Therefore, sufficient time intervals are allowed between the connection and disconnection of the main terminals used for high current and the connection and disconnection of HVIL, thus enabling safer insertion and removal of connector devices.

[0169] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0170] 11 Connector Housing

[0171] 11a Terminal cover section

[0172] 11b Guide pin

[0173] 12 strokes

[0174] 12a Arm plate section

[0175] 12b Arm Plate Section

[0176] 12c Operation Section

[0177] 12d connector section

[0178] 13 terminals

[0179] 14 Guide slots

[0180] 15 Cam groove

[0181] 16 Male terminal for interlocking detection

[0182] 21 Connector Housing

[0183] 21a Cam pin

[0184] 21b Installation space

[0185] 21c Terminal cover storage section

[0186] 21d Connector Section

[0187] 22 terminals

[0188] 23. Female terminal for interlocking detection

[0189] 30. Outer shell

[0190] 31 Chimeric part

[0191] 32 Cable Storage Section

[0192] 33 Storage Department

[0193] 34 Storage Department

[0194] 35 Guide shaft

[0195] 36 Flange portion

[0196] 37. Flange portion

[0197] 36a Protrusion

[0198] 38 slots

[0199] 38a protrusion

[0200] 39 Installation Department

[0201] 39a gap

[0202] 39b Abutment Surface

[0203] 40 strokes

[0204] 41 Arm

[0205] 42 Connecting parts

[0206] 42a Opening

[0207] 43 Guide slot

[0208] 44 Cam groove

[0209] 45. Groove

[0210] 46. ​​Groove

[0211] 45a raised bar

[0212] 47 Installation Department

[0213] 48 Locking section

[0214] 49 Operations Department

[0215] 49a Reinforced Wall

[0216] 49b Opening

[0217] 49c Wall

[0218] 49d Sliding Insertion Section

[0219] 49e incision

[0220] 49f Pressing Part

[0221] 50 main terminals

[0222] 60 Interlock Terminals

[0223] 70 Locking parts

[0224] 71 Locking Pieces

[0225] 80 Cable Cover

[0226] 90 Interlocking housing

[0227] 91 cylindrical part

[0228] 92 Operations Department

[0229] 93 Reed

[0230] 93a protuberance

[0231] 100 connector

[0232] 110 Matching side shell

[0233] 111 Plate section

[0234] 112 Fitted part

[0235] 112a Zhoubi

[0236] 113 Driven protrusion

[0237] 114 Incision

[0238] 115 Matching side flange portion

[0239] 116 Matching side flange portion

[0240] 115a raised bar

[0241] 117. Erect part

[0242] 118. Erect part

[0243] 119 Installation Department

[0244] 120 Matching side main terminal

[0245] 130 mating side interlock terminal

[0246] 200 mating side connector

[0247] 300 cable

[0248] 400 connector

[0249] 500 mating side connector

Claims

1. A connector device comprising a connector having a housing, a rod, and main terminals, and a mating-side connector having a mating-side housing and mating-side main terminals. A guide groove is formed on one of the rod and the housing, and a guide shaft is formed on the other. By mounting the rod to the housing with the guide shaft positioned in the guide groove, the rod is rotatable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position selected by the rod, and is slidable between the second position and a third position. One of the cam groove and the driven protrusion forming the cam mechanism is formed in the rod, and the other is formed in the mating side housing. When the connector is in the engagement ready position relative to the mating side connector with the rod in the first position, if the rod is rotated to the second position, the connector is pulled by the cam mechanism to a mating position closer to the mating side connector than the engagement ready position, and the main terminal and the mating side main terminal are connected at least during the period when the rod reaches the second position. When the connector is in the second position relative to the mating side connector in the engaged position, if the rod is rotated to the first position, the connector is pushed back to the engaged ready position by the cam mechanism, thereby disengaging the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal. The connector device is characterized in that... The outer shell has a flange portion. The mating side housing has a mating side flange. The rod has a groove extending in the sliding direction. If the rod of the connector, which is located in the mating position relative to the mating side connector, is slid from the second position to the third position, the flange portion and the mating side flange portion are held by the rod by being received together in the same groove in an abutting state. If the rod of the connector, which is located in the mating position relative to the mating side connector, is slid from the third position to the second position, the clamping of the rod on the flange and the mating side flange is released. The rod has a pair of arms that clamp the housing, and the pair of arms are mounted on the housing. Each of the four grooves is located on the front end side and the base end side of the pair of arms, respectively. The outer shell and the mating side outer shell are respectively provided with four flange portions and four mating side flange portions respectively housed in the four groove portions.

2. The connector device according to claim 1, characterized in that, With regard to the flange portion, the mating side flange portion, and the groove portion, the cross-sectional shape of the connector in the state of being in the mating position relative to the mating side connector, which is orthogonal to the sliding direction, is a shape that expands in the direction away from the housing and the mating side housing along the protruding direction of the flange portion and the mating side flange portion.

3. The connector device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector has interlocking terminals. The mating side connector has mating side interlocking terminals. When the connector with the rod in the first position is in the engagement preparation position relative to the mating side connector, if the rod is rotated to an intermediate position between the first position and the second position, the connector moves to the main terminal contact start position between the engagement preparation position and the engagement position, and the main terminal connects with the mating side main terminal. When the connector is in the intermediate position relative to the mating side connector at the main terminal contact start position, if the rod is rotated to the second position, the connector moves to the mating position. While maintaining the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are connected. When the connector is in the second position relative to the mating side connector in the engaged position, if the rod is rotated to the intermediate position, the connector leaves the engaged position and moves to the main terminal contact start position. Here, when the connector leaves the engaged position, the connection between the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal is released while maintaining the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal. When the connector with the rod in the middle position is in the main terminal contact start position relative to the mating side connector, if the rod is rotated to the first position, the connector moves away from the main terminal contact start position and moves to the mating preparation position. Here, when the connector moves away from the main terminal contact start position, the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal is released.

4. The connector device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connector has interlocking terminals. The mating side connector has mating side interlocking terminals. When the connector with the rod in the first position is in the engagement preparation position relative to the mating side connector, if the rod is rotated to an intermediate position between the first position and the second position, the connector moves to the main terminal contact start position between the engagement preparation position and the engagement position, and the main terminal connects with the mating side main terminal. When the connector is in the intermediate position relative to the mating side connector at the main terminal contact start position, if the rod is rotated to the second position, the connector moves to the mating position. While maintaining the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are connected. When the connector is in the second position relative to the mating side connector in the engaged position, if the rod is rotated to the intermediate position, the connector leaves the engaged position and moves to the main terminal contact start position. Here, when the connector leaves the engaged position, the connection between the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal is released while maintaining the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal. When the connector with the rod in the middle position is in the main terminal contact start position relative to the mating side connector, if the rod is rotated to the first position, the connector moves away from the main terminal contact start position and moves to the mating preparation position. Here, when the connector moves away from the main terminal contact start position, the connection between the main terminal and the mating side main terminal is released.

5. The connector device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector has an interlocking housing and interlocking terminals. The mating side connector has mating side interlocking terminals. The interlock terminal is installed in the interlock housing. A spring is formed on the interlocking housing, having an outwardly protruding portion at its front end. If the protrusion is pressed, it moves from its natural position to a retracted position. The interlocking housing is slidably mounted on the housing between a selected open position and a closed position. When the protrusion is in the open position, the interlocking housing prevents sliding towards the closed position by abutting against the abutting surface of the housing. When the protrusion is in the retracted position, it can slide towards the closed position. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector and the interlocking housing is in the open position, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are separated from each other. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector, and the interlocking housing is in the closed position, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are connected to each other. When the connector is in the engaged position relative to the mating side connector, and the rod is in the second position, the protrusion is in the natural position. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector and the rod is in the third position, the protrusion is pressed by the pressing part of the rod and is in the retracted position.

6. The connector device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connector has an interlocking housing and interlocking terminals. The mating side connector has mating side interlocking terminals. The interlock terminal is installed in the interlock housing. A spring is formed on the interlocking housing, having an outwardly protruding portion at its front end. If the protrusion is pressed, it moves from its natural position to a retracted position. The interlocking housing is slidably mounted on the housing between a selected open position and a closed position. When the protrusion is in the open position, the interlocking housing prevents sliding towards the closed position by abutting against the abutting surface of the housing. When the protrusion is in the retracted position, it can slide towards the closed position. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector and the interlocking housing is in the open position, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are separated from each other. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector, and the interlocking housing is in the closed position, the interlocking terminal and the mating side interlocking terminal are connected to each other. When the connector is in the engaged position relative to the mating side connector, and the rod is in the second position, the protrusion is in the natural position. When the connector is in the mating position relative to the mating side connector and the rod is in the third position, the protrusion is pressed by the pressing part of the rod and is in the retracted position.

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