Connector for machines

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a connector for a machine, which reduces contact pressure of a partition wall against an inner circumferential surface of a cylindrical portion of a resin housing when a connector cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion. A connector for a machine (20) includes a terminal block (30) including a resin housing (40) having a cylindrical portion (42) and three or more terminals (32), and a connector cover (50) covering an opening on one end side of the cylindrical portion. Connection portions (33) of the three or more terminals protrude from a first partial inner circumferential surface (44) of the cylindrical portion toward a second partial inner circumferential surface (45). The connector cover includes an insertion portion (64) inserted into the cylindrical portion, a resin cover portion (60) having partition walls (66), and a seal ring (52). The plurality of partition walls each separate the three or more connection portions. A first rib (67) extends from each of the plurality of partition walls along the first partial inner circumferential surface, and a second rib (68) extends from each of the plurality of partition walls along the second partial inner circumferential surface (45).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connectors for machines. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a connector having a housing made of synthetic resin integrally formed with a plurality of terminals, and a protective cover made of synthetic resin that closes the working holes of the housing. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-27756 Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] To increase the insulation distance between adjacent terminals, it is considered to install a partition in the protective cover and place the partition between adjacent terminals.

[0005] If a partition is installed in the protective cover, the partition may come into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the working hole when the protective cover is inserted into the working hole of the housing. It is desirable to minimize the contact pressure of the partition on the inner circumferential surface of the working hole. Furthermore, contact pressure is the force per unit area.

[0006] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to minimize the contact pressure of the partition wall on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion when inserting the connector cover into the cylindrical portion of the resin housing. Solution for solving the problem

[0007] The machine connector disclosed herein comprises: a terminal block having a resin housing and three or more terminals, the resin housing having a cylindrical portion and the terminals having connecting portions; and a connector cover that detachably covers one end opening of the cylindrical portion, the cylindrical portion having an inner circumferential surface including a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface facing the first inner circumferential surface, the three or more terminals being partially covered and supported by the resin housing with their respective connecting portions located within the cylindrical portion, the three or more connecting portions being arranged at intervals within the cylindrical portion along an arrangement direction intersecting the penetrating direction of the cylindrical portion, and protruding from the first inner circumferential surface to the second inner circumferential surface, the connector cover comprising a resin cover portion and a sealing ring, the resin cover portion having a cover body portion and an insertion portion for insertion into the cylindrical portion. The resin cap includes a plurality of partitions extending from the insertion portion toward the other end of the cylindrical portion. The sealing ring is fitted to the outer periphery of the insertion portion and contacts the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion. Each of the plurality of partitions extends toward the other end of the cylindrical portion at a position that separates the three or more connecting portions, and overlaps from the base end of the three or more connecting portions to the top end in the protruding direction of the connecting portion. The resin cap also includes a first rib and a second rib. The first rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the first portion from a first end of each of the plurality of partitions located at the base end of the connecting portion, i.e., the end near the other end of the cylindrical portion. The second rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the second portion from a second end of each of the plurality of partitions located at the top end of the connecting portion, i.e., the end near the other end of the cylindrical portion. Invention Effects

[0008] According to this disclosure, when inserting the connector cover into the cylindrical portion of the resin housing, the contact pressure of the partition wall on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion is minimized as much as possible. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the machine connector according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Sectional view along line II-II. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the connector used in the machine. Figure 4 This is a bottom view of the connector used in the machine. Figure 5 This is a 3D view of the connector cover from the machine side. Figure 6 This is an illustrative diagram showing the connector cover in the middle of insertion relative to the terminal block. Figure 7This is an illustrative diagram showing the connector cover in the middle of insertion relative to the terminal block. Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the contact state between the partition wall and the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical part. Figure 9 This is an illustrative diagram showing the connector cover in the middle of insertion relative to the terminal block. Detailed Implementation

[0010] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure] First, embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described.

[0011] The machine connector disclosed herein is as follows.

[0012] (1) A machine connector comprises: a terminal block having a resin housing and three or more terminals, the resin housing having a cylindrical portion and the terminals having connecting portions; and a connector cover that covers one end opening of the cylindrical portion in a detachable manner, the cylindrical portion having an inner circumferential surface including a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface facing the first inner circumferential surface, the three or more terminals being partially covered and supported by the resin housing such that their respective connecting portions are located within the cylindrical portion, the three or more connecting portions being arranged at intervals within the cylindrical portion along an arrangement direction intersecting the penetrating direction of the cylindrical portion, and protruding from the first inner circumferential surface to the second inner circumferential surface, the connector cover comprising: a resin cover portion and a sealing ring, the resin cover portion having a cover body portion and an insertion portion for insertion into the cylindrical portion. The resin cap includes a plurality of partitions extending from the insertion portion toward the other end of the cylindrical portion. The sealing ring is fitted to the outer periphery of the insertion portion and contacts the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion. Each of the plurality of partitions extends toward the other end of the cylindrical portion at a position that separates the three or more connecting portions, and overlaps from the base end of the three or more connecting portions to the top end in the protruding direction of the connecting portion. The resin cap also includes a first rib and a second rib. The first rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the first portion from a first end of each of the plurality of partitions located at the base end of the connecting portion, i.e., the end near the other end of the cylindrical portion. The second rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the second portion from a second end of each of the plurality of partitions located at the top end of the connecting portion, i.e., the end near the other end of the cylindrical portion.

[0013] According to this disclosure, a partition wall extends from the sealing ring at the tip side in the insertion direction. Therefore, when the connector cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion, the outward portion of the partition wall at the tip side in the insertion direction may abut against the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion. Even if the partition wall abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion, a first rib extending along the first portion of the inner circumferential surface or a second rib extending along the second portion of the inner circumferential surface also abuts against that inner circumferential surface. Therefore, compared to the case without the first and second ribs, the contact area between the resin cover and the inner circumferential surface can be increased. As a result, when the connector cover is inserted into the resin housing, the contact pressure of the partition wall relative to the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion can be minimized.

[0014] (2) Preferably, in the machine connector of (1), the first rib and the second rib extend to the insertion portion. In this case, the insertion portion can be reinforced by the first rib and the second rib and become less prone to deformation. As a result, the sealing performance achieved by the sealing ring provided on the outer periphery of the insertion portion can be improved.

[0015] (3) Preferably, in the machine connector of (1) or (2), the second rib extends in a manner that connects the plurality of partitions. This can improve the strength of each partition and increase the insulation distance.

[0016] (4) Preferably, in any of the machine connectors in (1) to (3), a gap is provided between the second rib and the inner circumferential surface of the second part. In this case, since a gap is provided between the second rib and the inner circumferential surface of the second part, it is easy to insert the insertion part into the cylindrical part.

[0017] (5) Preferably, in any one of (1) to (4) of the machine connector, the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin cover is greater than the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin housing. Therefore, it is easy to maintain a seal by pressing the resin housing with the resin cover.

[0018] (6) Preferably, in any of (1) to (5) machine connectors, in the insertion direction of the insertion portion, within the interval from the sealing position based on the sealing ring to at least a portion of the overlap of the partition wall, the first inner circumferential surface and the second inner circumferential surface are positioned at a certain interval in the protruding direction of the connection portion. This allows the area of ​​the sealing position where the sealing ring is disposed in the cylindrical portion to be reduced to a limit through which the partition wall can pass. This enables miniaturization of the resin cap portion.

[0019] (7) Preferably, in any of (1) to (6) of the machine connectors, the portion of the connector cover inserted into the cylindrical portion, that is, the portion closest to the inner circumferential surface of the first and second portions on its insertion-direction tip side, is the partition wall. If the portion of the connector cover inserted into the cylindrical portion, that is, the portion closest to the inner circumferential surface of the first and second portions on its insertion-direction tip side, is the partition wall, then the partition wall is likely to abut against the inner circumferential surface of the first or second portion. In this case, the contact pressure of the partition wall relative to the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion can be minimized.

[0020] (8) Preferably, in any one of (1) to (7) machine connectors, the cover body has a screw fixing part that is threaded relative to the machine to be installed. Thus, even if the partition wall comes into contact with the inner circumferential surface before or during thread tightening, the contact pressure of the partition wall relative to the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical part can be minimized.

[0021] (9) Preferably, in any of (1) to (8) the machine connector, one of the terminal block and the connector cover has a guide groove, and the other has a guided portion guided by the guide groove, the guide groove being a groove that restricts the passage path of the insertion portion within the cylindrical portion, the guide groove being formed such that the guided portion is guided before the end of the partition wall opening at the other end of the cylindrical portion reaches the contact position of the sealing ring in the inner circumferential surface. In this case, the partition wall is less likely to contact the position of the sealing ring in the inner circumferential surface. Thus, the contact portion of the sealing ring in the inner circumferential surface is easily ensured to be a smooth surface suitable for sealing.

[0022] [Details of the embodiments disclosed herein] Specific examples of the machine connectors of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples but is defined by the claims, and all modifications within the scope and meaning of the claims are expected.

[0023] [Implementation Method] <Overall Composition> The machine connectors involved in the embodiments will be described below. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the machine connector 20. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Sectional view along line II-II. Figure 2 In the image, the machine 10, which has the machine connector 20 installed, is shown with a double-dotted line. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the machine connector 20. Figure 4This is a bottom view of the machine connector 20. For ease of explanation, in some cases, the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 42 (described later) is taken as the Z direction. In the Z direction, the side facing the machine 10 is taken as the -Z direction, and the direction from the machine 10 outwards is taken as the +Z direction. In other cases, the extension direction of the terminal 32 inside the cylindrical portion 42 is taken as the X direction, the top end side of the terminal 32 is taken as the +X direction, and the base end side is taken as the -X direction. In addition, the direction orthogonal to both the Z and X directions is taken as the Y direction, one side of which is taken as the +Y direction, and the other side as the -Y direction.

[0024] The machine connector 20 is a connector used to connect the wire 22 to the machine 10.

[0025] Here, machine 10 is a machine mounted on a vehicle (see...). Figure 2 Machine 10 is, for example, an inverter or an electric motor. Machine 10 includes a housing 12 and a machine-side terminal block 14. Electrical components are housed within the housing 12 of machine 10. The machine-side terminal block 14, having a cylindrical portion 15, is mounted on the outer periphery of the housing 12. The machine-side terminal block 14 is formed, for example, of resin. A machine-side terminal 16 extends from the housing 12 toward the cylindrical portion 15. The base of the machine-side terminal 16 connects to the electrical components within the housing 12. The top end of the machine-side terminal 16 is bent into a position perpendicular to the axis of the cylindrical portion 15 (XX direction). A hole for screw insertion is formed at the top end of the machine-side terminal 16.

[0026] The machine connector 20 is connected to the machine-side terminal block 14, thereby electrically connecting the external wire 22 to the internal electrical components of the machine. This allows power to be supplied to the machine 10 from the outside. The machine connector 20 includes a terminal block 30 and a connector cover 50.

[0027] Terminal block 30 has terminal 32. Terminal block 30 is assembled with machine-side terminal block 14, thereby positioning terminal 32 in contact with machine-side terminal 16. Terminal 32 is threadedly fastened relative to machine-side terminal 16.

[0028] The connector cover 50, by engaging with the terminal block 30, covers the connection portion between the terminal 32 and the machine-side terminal 16. The connector cover 50 is installed on the terminal block 30 during vehicle manufacturing. Additionally, the connector cover 50 is sometimes removed from the machine-side terminal block 14, even during vehicle maintenance.

[0029] The terminal block 30 and the connector cover 50 will be described in more detail below.

[0030] Terminal block The terminal block 30 has a resin housing 40 and three or more terminals 32.

[0031] Terminal 32 has a connecting portion 33 that connects to the end of wire 22. The connecting portion 33 is the part that connects to machine-side terminal 16, for example, a perforated plate-like portion. In this embodiment, it is a crimped round terminal, and the perforated plate-like portion at its top is the connecting portion. Here, terminal block 30 has four terminals 32, each of which connects to the end of wire 22. Furthermore, the number of terminals 32 and wires 22 can be three or more, and the number is arbitrary.

[0032] The resin housing 40 is formed of resin and is the portion that holds the terminal 32. The resin housing 40 has a cylindrical portion 42. The terminal 32 is held in the cylindrical portion 42.

[0033] More specifically, the cylindrical portion 42, viewed along its axial direction, is longer in one direction (Y direction) and shorter in another direction (X direction). For example, the cylindrical portion 42 is a cylindrical shape formed by connecting semi-cylindrical portions to both sides of two rectangular plate-shaped portions that are spaced apart. The inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 includes a first inner circumferential surface 44 and a second inner circumferential surface 45. The first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 are rectangular shapes that are longer in one direction (Y direction) and shorter in the axial direction (Z direction) of the cylindrical portion 42. The first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 are spaced apart in the X direction.

[0034] In the middle part of the inner circumferential surface 43 in the Z direction, a stepped portion 42s is formed facing the -Z side (machine side) (see...). Figure 2 The machine-side portion 42a of the inner circumferential surface 43 extends beyond the outer portion 42b of the machine via a stepped portion 42s. One end opening 42h1 of the cylindrical portion 42 faces the outer side of the machine 10. The other end opening 42h2 of the cylindrical portion 42 faces the side of the machine 10.

[0035] With the connector cover 50 and terminal block 30 assembled, the sealing ring 52 of the connector cover 50 (described later) contacts the inner circumferential surface 43 along its circumferential direction. This seals the gap between the terminal block 30 and the connector cover 50.

[0036] Three or more terminals 32 are partially covered and supported by the resin housing 40 with their respective connecting portions 33 located within the cylindrical portion 42. The three or more connecting portions 33 are arranged at intervals within the cylindrical portion 42 along an arrangement direction (Y direction) intersecting the through direction of the cylindrical portion 42. Each connecting portion 33 protrudes from the inner peripheral surface 44 of the first portion toward the inner peripheral surface 45 of the second portion. As described above, the protruding direction of the connecting portion 33 is the +X side, and its opposite side is the -X side. There is a gap between each connecting portion 33. There is a gap between the top end of each connecting portion 33 and the inner peripheral surface 45 of the second portion. The top end of each connecting portion 33 is formed in a circular plate shape, and a connecting portion 34 with a width narrower than the width of the connecting portion 33 is continuously formed at the base end on the inner peripheral surface 44 side of each connecting portion 33. The positions supporting each connecting portion 33 correspond to the positions of each machine-side terminal 16.

[0037] In the Z direction, which is the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 42, the connecting portion 33 is located at the middle of the inner peripheral surface 43. More specifically, the connecting portion 33 is located in the portion 42b on the outer side of the machine. In this embodiment, the surface of the connecting portion 33 facing the machine 10 is positioned in a plane that is continuous with the surface of the stepped portion 42s. A surface parallel to the Z direction is continuously formed in the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 at a position on the outer side of the machine 10 than the terminal 32.

[0038] The portion of terminal 32 that connects to wire 22 is embedded within resin housing 40. Wire 22 is pulled out to the outside of the first inner circumferential surface 44 within resin housing 40. A wire holding portion 49 protrudes from the outer circumferential side of the first inner circumferential surface 44 within resin housing 40. The end of wire 22 on the terminal 32 side passes through the wire holding portion 49 and is pulled out to the outside of the wire holding portion 49.

[0039] The resin housing 40 has a guide groove 47. In this embodiment, the guide groove 47 is formed by the inner surfaces of a pair of guide wall portions 46 and the surface 47a between them. That is, a pair of guide wall portions 46 separated along the X direction are formed at both ends of the outer periphery of the resin housing 40 in the Y direction. The bottom surface 47a of the guide groove between the pair of guide wall portions 46 in the outer periphery of the resin housing 40 is formed as a plane perpendicular to the Y direction. The guide groove 47 is formed with a guide side surface 47b on the inner sides of the pair of guide wall portions 46 and the bottom surface 47a of the guide groove. The guide groove 47 is formed at both ends of the resin housing 40 in the Y direction.

[0040] An outer sealing member mounting groove 41g is formed in the outer periphery of the resin housing 40 near the machine 10. An outer sealing ring 41 is mounted in this outer sealing member mounting groove 41g. The outer sealing ring 41 is an annular member made of an elastic material such as rubber. When the resin housing 40 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 15 of the machine-side terminal block 14, the outer periphery of the outer sealing ring 41 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 15. Thus, a seal is formed between the resin housing 40 and the machine-side terminal block 14.

[0041] <Connector Cover> Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the connector cover 50 as seen from the side of machine 10. (Example) Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the connector cover 50 covers one end opening 42h1 of the outer side of the cylindrical portion 42 of the machine 10 in a detachable state. The connector cover 50 includes a resin cover portion 60 and a sealing ring 52.

[0042] The resin cap 60 is a portion formed of resin. Preferably, the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin forming the resin cap 60 is greater than the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin forming the resin shell 40. The hardness of the resin is determined, for example, by the properties of the substrate itself or the amount of reinforcing material incorporated into the substrate. For example, PA6T (polyamide 6T) is harder than PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), therefore, PA6T can be used to form the resin cap 60, and PBT can be used to form the resin shell 40. Furthermore, for example, the more reinforcing fibers such as glass fibers are incorporated into the substrate, the harder it becomes. Therefore, the proportion of reinforcing fibers in the resin of the resin cap 60 can be greater than the proportion of reinforcing fibers in the resin of the resin shell 40. The final resin hardness is set by the hardness of the substrate itself and the proportion of reinforcing material incorporated. Therefore, it is preferable to set the proportions of the substrate and reinforcing material in each resin such that the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin forming the resin cap 60 is greater than the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin forming the resin shell 40. The Rockwell hardness value HR is tested, for example, by the test method specified in JIS Z2245.

[0043] By making the Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin cover 60 greater and harder than that of the resin housing 40, the resin cover 60 can effectively push the resin housing 40 towards the machine 10. For example, the resin housing 40 is integral with the sealing ring 52 to seal the opening of the cylindrical portion 42. Therefore, the resin housing 40 may be pushed outwards from the machine 10 due to the expansion of air inside the machine 10. In such a case, the connector cover 50, which is fixed to the machine 10 by screws or the like, pushes the resin housing 40 toward the machine 10. If the resin cover 60 is formed to be harder than the resin housing 40, the connector cover 50 itself is less prone to deformation, thereby easily maintaining the state in which the connector cover 50 pushes the resin housing 40.

[0044] The resin cap 60 has a cap body 61, an insertion portion 64, and a plurality of partitions 66. The resin cap 60 is, for example, a component integrally molded from the same resin using a mold.

[0045] The main body 61 of the cover has a pressing part 62 and a pair of screw fixing parts 63. The pressing part 62 is formed into an elongated rectangular plate shape. The dimension of the pressing part 62 in the long side direction (Y direction) is greater than the dimension of the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical part 42 in the long side direction (Y direction), and the dimension of the pressing part 62 in the short side direction (X direction) is greater than the dimension of the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical part 42 in the short side direction (X direction). Therefore, the pressing part 62 can cover the outer side of the side opening 42h1 at one end of the cylindrical part 42.

[0046] Both ends of the pressing portion 62 extend outwards along the long side of the cylindrical portion 42. A pair of screw fixing portions 63 are connected to both ends of the pressing portion 62. The screw fixing portions 63 are formed as L-shaped legs extending from both ends of the pressing portion 62 toward the machine 10 side and extending along the fixing object surface on the machine 10 side at the position reaching the machine 10. A screw insertion hole 63h is formed at the end of the screw fixing portion 63. Bolts or other screws are inserted into the screw insertion hole 63h and screwed and fastened to the nut portion on the machine 10 side. Thus, the cover body portion 61 is in a state of pressing the cylindrical portion 42 toward the machine 10.

[0047] The insertion portion 64 is the part of the pushing portion 62 that protrudes from the side facing the machine 10. In this embodiment, the insertion portion 64 is formed with an opening on the machine 10 side. It is assumed that the space within the insertion portion 64 accommodates the top of a screw used to fasten the terminal 16 to the terminal 32. The outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 64 is, for example, within the limit that it can be inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the same shape as or smaller than the outer portion 42b of the machine in the inner peripheral surface 43. The protruding dimension of the insertion portion 64 is smaller than the distance between the opening 42h1 at one end of the cylindrical portion 42 and the connecting portion 33 of the terminal 32. When the insertion portion 64 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the pushing portion 62 abuts against the end face at one end of the cylindrical portion 42, restricting the position of the insertion portion 64 in the insertion direction. In this state, the top end of the insertion portion 64 is above the connecting portion 33.

[0048] A sealing member assembly groove 64g is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part 64 and at the middle part of the insertion part 64 in the axial direction (Z direction). The sealing member assembly groove 64g is an annular groove along the circumference of the insertion part 64.

[0049] The sealing ring 52 is a ring-shaped member formed of an elastic material such as rubber. The sealing ring 52 is fitted into the sealing member mounting groove 64g, thereby assembling the sealing ring 52 into the insertion portion 64. With the insertion portion 64 inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the sealing ring 52 contacts the outer portion 42b of the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42. Thus, a seal is formed between the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 and the insertion portion 64.

[0050] The axial center portion of the outer peripheral surface of the sealing ring 52 is the most prominent. This most outwardly protruding annular portion of the outer peripheral surface of the sealing ring 52 is designated as the annular top 52t. With the sealing ring 52 sealing the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 and the insertion portion 64, the position where the annular top 52t is pressed against the inner peripheral surface 43 is designated as the sealing position P of the sealing ring 52 in the insertion direction (Z direction) of the insertion portion 64. See the following description for the sealing position P.

[0051] In the insertion direction (Z direction) of the insertion portion 64, in the interval from the sealing position P to the connecting portion 33, the first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 are positioned at a certain interval in the protrusion direction (X direction) of the connecting portion 33. That is, in a cross-section parallel to the XZ plane, in the interval from the sealing position P to the connecting portion 33, the first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 are parallel.

[0052] Multiple partitions 66 are provided with three or more connecting portions 33 at the separation positions. In this embodiment, four connecting portions 33 are arranged at intervals along the Y direction, and partitions 66 are provided at three positions between adjacent connecting portions 33. The partitions 66 extend beyond the connecting portions 33 toward the opening side (-Z side) of the other end of the cylindrical portion 42, and when the insertion portion 64 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the top end of the partition 66 is located at a position that allows the connecting portion 33 to pass over the machine 10. Therefore, foreign objects present between the connecting portions 33 can be squeezed out from between the connecting portions 33. In addition, the partitions 66 overlap with the base ends and top ends of three or more connecting portions 33 in the protruding direction (X direction) of the connecting portions 33. Preferably, the partitions 66 overlap with at least a portion of the connecting portion 34 in the X direction. The partitions 66 enter between the multiple connecting portions 33, thereby increasing the insulation distance between the connecting portions 33.

[0053] The relationship between the partition wall 66 and the sealing position P will be explained. As described above, the top end of the insertion portion 64 is located away from the opening 42h1 at one end of the cylindrical portion 42 from the connecting portion 33. The partition wall 66 extends from the top end of the insertion portion 64 toward the opening 42h2 at the other end of the cylindrical portion 42, passing over the connecting portion 33. Thus, portions of the first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 that are opposed at a certain interval in the protruding direction of the connecting portion 33 (partial 42b side) exist in the interval T in the insertion direction of the insertion portion 64 from the sealing position P to the partition wall 66, where at least a portion overlaps (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0054] The resin cap 60 has a first rib 67 and a second rib 68 connected to a plurality of partitions 66. The first rib 67 and the second rib 68 will be described in detail below.

[0055] <First and second ribs> The first rib 67 extends along the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first portion from the first end of each of the plurality of partitions 66 located on the base end side (-X side) of the connecting portion 33, wherein the first end of the first rib 67 is the end that opens to the other end side (-Z side) of the cylindrical portion 42. In this embodiment, the first rib 67 is located between the connecting portions 34 on the base end side of the connecting portion 33.

[0056] The first rib 67 can extend from the partition wall 66 in one direction or to both sides in the thickness direction of the partition wall 66. In this embodiment, the first rib 67 extends from the partition wall 66 in both sides in the thickness direction of the partition wall 66. Therefore, when viewed from the top side of the partition wall 66 and the first rib 67, the two ribs extend in a T-shape relative to the partition wall 66. The surface of the first rib 67 facing the base end side (-X side) of the connecting portion 33 is continuously connected along the extension of the surface of the partition wall 66 facing the base end side (-X side) of the connecting portion 33. Therefore, the outward surfaces of the partition wall 66 and the first rib 67 can simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42.

[0057] The first rib 67 may be provided at least on the top (-Z) side of the partition wall 66. In this embodiment, the first rib 67 extends in the Z direction from the top side of the partition wall 66 to the insertion portion 64, which is the base end side, and is connected to the insertion portion 64.

[0058] A gap is provided between the first ribs 67 that are connected to each of the plurality of partitions 66. A connecting portion 34 connected to the base end side of the connecting portion 33 is disposed in the gap.

[0059] The second rib 68 extends along the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part from the second end of the connecting part 33 located at the top end (+X side) of each of the plurality of partitions 66. The second end of the second rib 68 is the end of the cylindrical part 42 that is open at the other end (-Z side).

[0060] The second rib 68 can extend from the partition wall 66 in the thickness direction of the partition wall 66 to one side or to both sides. In this embodiment, the second rib 68 extends in a manner that connects the plurality of partition walls 66. Thus, in the direction in which the plurality of partition walls 66 are arranged side by side, the second rib 68 extends towards the center of the arrangement direction of the partition walls 66 from the partition walls at both ends, and extends outward in the arrangement direction from the middle partition wall.

[0061] The surface of the second rib 68 facing the top end (+X side) of the connecting portion 33 is continuously connected to the extension of the surface of the partition wall 66 facing the top end (+X side) of the connecting portion 33. Therefore, the outward surfaces of the partition wall 66 and the second rib 68 can simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42.

[0062] Of course, the second rib does not necessarily have to extend in a way that connects the partitions 66; it can extend in the same way as the first rib 67 described above, by setting gaps between the partitions 66.

[0063] The second rib 68 only needs to be provided at least on the top side (-Z side) of the partition wall 66. In this embodiment, the second rib 68 extends from the top side of the partition wall 66 in the Z direction to the insertion portion 64, which serves as the base end, and connects to the insertion portion 64. Therefore, the partition wall 66 and the second rib 68 can surround the two ends and the top side of the middle connection portion 33 in the arrangement direction of the plurality of connection portions 33, thereby increasing the insulation distance between the connection portions 33.

[0064] If we observe the connector cover 50 as a whole, the portion of the connector cover 50 inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, that is, the portion closest to the inner peripheral surface 44 of the first portion and the inner peripheral surface 45 of the second portion on the top side (-Z direction) of the insertion direction, is the two corners on the top side of the partition wall 66. Therefore, when the connector cover 50 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the corners of the partition wall 66 may contact the inner peripheral surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42. The outward extension of the first rib 67 and the outward extension of the second rib 68 extend continuously from the corners of the partition wall 66 outward in the thickness direction of the partition wall 66. Therefore, when either of the two corners on the top side of the partition wall contacts the inner peripheral surface 43, the outward extension of the first rib 67 or the outward extension of the second rib 68 can simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 43.

[0065] With the connector cover 50 and terminal block 30 assembled, the first rib 67 and the first inner circumferential surface 44 can be in contact or separated. To further improve the insulation between the connecting portions 33, it is preferable that the gap between the first rib 67 and the first inner circumferential surface 44 is as small as possible.

[0066] With the connector cover 50 assembled with the terminal block 30, a gap is provided between the second rib 68 and the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part. The second rib 68, which seals the gap between the partitions 66, is located on the top side of the connecting portion 33. Therefore, sufficient insulation distance is ensured on the top side of the connecting portion 33 by this second rib 68. Thus, the distance D between the second rib 68 and the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part (see...) Figure 2 It is larger than the distance between the first rib 67 and the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first part.

[0067] Therefore, for example, to further improve insulation, the distance between the first rib 67 and the first inner peripheral surface 44 can be further reduced, and a gap can be provided between the second rib 68 and the second inner peripheral surface 45. As a result, relative to the interval between the first inner peripheral surface 44 and the second inner peripheral surface 45, the size of the insertion part 64 and the partition wall 66 can be easily reduced, making it easier to insert the insertion part 64 and the partition wall 66.

[0068] <Guiding Structure> The resin cap 60 has a be Figure 3 The guided portion 58 is guided by a pair of guide grooves 47. The guided portion 58 is guided by the guide grooves 47, thereby restricting the passage path of the insertion portion 64 within the cylindrical portion 42.

[0069] More specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the guided portion 58 is formed at both ends of the pressing portion 62, that is, inside the screw fixing portion 63. The guided portion 58 is formed as an elongated plate protruding from the end of the face of the pressing portion 62 on the machine 10 side toward the machine 10 side. It is not necessary to provide a reinforcing piece 58g between the guided portion 58 and the screw fixing portion 63.

[0070] The guided portion 58 is formed to be positioned between a pair of guide sides 47b of the guide groove 47. By positioning the guided portion 58 between the pair of guide sides 47b, the position in the X direction and the slope around the Y direction are limited.

[0071] Furthermore, each of the pair of guided portions 58 is configured to contact the bottom surface 47a of the guide grooves of the pair of guide grooves 47. By having each of the pair of guided portions 58 contact the bottom surface 47a of the guide groove from both outer sides of the cylindrical portion 42, the position in the Y direction and the slope around the X direction are restricted.

[0072] Preferably, the guide groove 47 is formed such that the end of the opening 42h2 (-Z side) on the other end side of the cylindrical portion 42 in the partition wall 66 guides the guided portion 58 before reaching the position (sealing position P) in the inner circumferential surface 43 where the sealing ring 52 contacts (see See Figure 6 as well as Figure 7This positional relationship will be explained in more detail in the description of the insertion action of the connector cover 50.

[0073] Furthermore, it is not necessary to form a guide groove 47 on the resin housing 40 side and a guided portion 58 on the resin cover 60. A guide groove can be formed on the resin cover, and a guided portion guided by the guide groove can be formed on the resin housing.

[0074] <Actions during assembly> Combination Figures 6 to 9 An example of assembling the connector cover 50 onto the terminal block 30 will be described. Figure 6 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 9 The diagram shows the relationship between the position of the partition 66 relative to the inner circumferential surface 43 and the position of the guided portion 58 relative to the guide groove 47 during the insertion of the connector cover 50.

[0075] Terminal 30 is assembled on the machine-side terminal block 14, and terminal 32 is fixed relative to terminal 16 by means of threaded fastening or the like. In this state, as... Figure 6 As shown, the connector cover 50 is assembled relative to the terminal block 30.

[0076] First, the partition wall 66 on the top side of the insertion part 64 is inserted into the cylindrical part 42. The insertion of the insertion part 64 can be performed, for example, by threading the screw S through the screw fixing part 63 to the nut on the machine 10 side. When the insertion of the insertion part 64 is performed by threaded tightening, the insertion operation is easy, but it is possible that even if the partition wall 66 strongly interacts with the inner circumferential surface 43, it may not be noticeable or certain. With the guided part 58 having reached the entrance of the guide groove 47, although the top part of the partition wall 66 has entered the cylindrical part 42, it has not reached the sealing position P.

[0077] like Figure 7 As shown, with the top end of the partition wall 66 already at the sealing position P, the guided portion 58 is guided by the guide groove 47. Therefore, the guide groove 47 guides the guided portion 58 before the top end of the partition wall 66 reaches the sealing position P. Thus, with the top end of the partition wall 66 already at the sealing position P, it is possible to prevent the insertion portion 64 from tilting too much and the top end of the partition wall 66 from being forcefully pressed against the inner circumferential surface 43.

[0078] However, considering the insertion operation of the guided portion 58 relative to the guide groove 47, a gap is provided between the interval between the pair of guide sides 47b of the guide groove 47 and the width of the guided portion 58. In this case, it is conceivable that when the insertion amount of the guided portion 58 relative to the guide groove 47 is small, the insertion portion 64 and the partition wall 66 are allowed to tilt slightly relative to the cylindrical portion 42.

[0079] Therefore, as Figure 8 As shown, it is conceivable that the top corner of the partition 66 contacts either the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first part or the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part. In this case, as described above, the corner of the partition 66 and the outward-facing portion of the second rib 68 simultaneously contact the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part. Therefore, the contact pressure is distributed to the corner of the partition 66 and the outward-facing portion of the second rib 68, making the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part less prone to deformation. Alternatively, the corner of the partition 66 and the outward-facing portion of the first rib 67 simultaneously contact the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first part. Therefore, the contact pressure is distributed to the corner of the partition 66 and the outward-facing portion of the first rib 67, making the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first part less prone to deformation.

[0080] Therefore, the first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 can be easily ensured to be smooth surfaces suitable for achieving a seal through contact with the sealing ring 52.

[0081] If the insertion part 64 is pressed further inward, the annular top 52t of the sealing ring 52 reaches the sealing position P and contacts the smooth inner circumferential surface 44 of the first part and the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part, thus achieving good sealing performance.

[0082] <Effects, etc.> According to the machine connector 20 configured as described above, a partition wall 66 extends from the sealing ring 52 towards the insertion tip. Therefore, when the connector cover 50 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, the outward portion of the partition wall 66 towards the insertion tip may abut against the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42. Even if the partition wall 66 abuts against the inner circumferential surface 43, the first rib 67 extending along the first portion of the inner circumferential surface 44 or the second rib 68 extending along the second portion of the inner circumferential surface 45 abuts against the inner circumferential surface 43. Therefore, compared to the case without the first rib 67 and the second rib 68, the contact area between the resin cover portion 60 and the inner circumferential surface 43 can be increased. Thus, when the connector cover 50 is inserted into the resin housing 40, the contact pressure of the partition wall 66 relative to the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 can be minimized.

[0083] Furthermore, it is conceivable that a cavity, such as the top, for accommodating the screws of the connecting terminals 16 and 32 is formed within the insertion portion 64. Therefore, because the insertion portion 64 is cylindrical, the sealing ring 52 is pressed against the inner circumferential surface 43, thereby being subjected to an inwardly deforming force. If the first rib 67 and the second rib 68 extend into the insertion portion 64, the insertion portion 64 can be made less prone to deformation due to the first rib 67 and the second rib 68. This improves the sealing performance of the sealing ring 52 between the insertion portion 64 and the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42.

[0084] Furthermore, if the second rib 68 extends in a manner that connects the multiple partitions 66, the strength of the partitions 66 and the insertion portion 64 can be improved, and the insulation distance between the connecting portions 33 can be increased. By improving the strength of the insertion portion 64, the sealing performance of the sealing ring 52 between the insertion portion 64 and the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 can also be improved, as described above.

[0085] Furthermore, by providing a gap between the second rib 68 and the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second part, the insertion part 64 can be easily inserted into the cylindrical part 42. In particular, by combining the configuration with the second rib 68 in a manner that connects the plurality of partitions 66, the insulation distance between the connecting parts 33 can be increased at the top end side of the connecting parts 33, and the insertion part 64 can be easily inserted into the cylindrical part 42.

[0086] In addition, if the resin cap 60 is harder than the resin housing 40, the resin housing 40 can be pressed with the resin cap 60, which is not easily deformed, to easily ensure a sealing condition.

[0087] Furthermore, in the insertion direction (Z direction) of the insertion portion 64, within the section T where at least a portion overlaps from the sealing position P to the partition wall 66, as long as the first inner circumferential surface 44 and the second inner circumferential surface 45 are positioned at a certain interval in the protrusion direction (X direction) of the connecting portion 33, the portion of the inner circumferential surface 43 of the cylindrical portion 42 including the sealing position P can be reduced to the extent that the partition wall 66 can pass through. This allows for miniaturization of the resin cap portion 60. Furthermore, miniaturization can also be achieved for the terminal block 30 as a whole.

[0088] Considering that in the sealed position P, if the distance between the first part inner circumferential surface 44 and the second part inner circumferential surface 45 is reduced, then the partition wall 66 will contact the inner circumferential surfaces 44 and 45. As described above, the configuration that disperses the contact pressure with the first rib 67 and the second rib 68 is more effective.

[0089] If the portion of the connector cover 50 inserted into the cylindrical portion 42, that is, the portion closest to the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first portion and the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second portion on its top side, is a partition wall 66, then the partition wall 66 is likely to come into contact with the inner circumferential surface 44 of the first portion or the inner circumferential surface 45 of the second portion. In this case, the contact pressure of the partition wall 66 relative to the inner circumferential surface 43 can be effectively reduced by the first rib 67 and the second rib 68.

[0090] In addition, the cover body 61 has a screw fixing part 63 for threaded fastening to the machine 10, which is the machine to be installed. Before or during threading, even if the partition wall 66 comes into contact with the inner peripheral surface 43, the contact pressure of the partition wall 66 relative to the inner peripheral surface 43 can be effectively reduced by the first rib 67 and the second rib 68.

[0091] Furthermore, the guide groove 47 guides the guided portion 58 before the top end of the partition wall 66 reaches the sealing position P, thus preventing the partition wall 66 from easily contacting the inner circumferential surface 43 at the sealing position P. Consequently, the portion of the inner circumferential surface 43 that contacts the sealing ring 52 is easily ensured to be a smooth surface suitable for sealing.

[0092] Furthermore, the components described in the above embodiments and various modifications can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0093] 10 machines 12 enclosures 14 Machine-side terminal blocks 15 cylindrical part 16 machine-side terminals 20 Machine Connectors 22 wire 30 terminal block 32 terminals 33 Connecting part 34 connecting parts 40 Resin Housing 41 Outer sealing ring 41g outer seal assembly groove 42 cylindrical part The machine side portion of the inner circumferential surface of 42a 42b The outer part of the machine's inner circumference 42h1 has an opening at one end. 42h2 has an opening at the other end. 42s Step Section 43 Inner circumferential surface 44 Part 1 Inner Circumferential Surface 45 Part 2 Inner Circumferential Surface 46 Guide Wall 47 guide groove 47a Guide groove bottom surface 47b guide side 49. Wire Holding Part 50 connector cover 52 sealing ring 52t ring top 58 Guided Department 58g Enhanced Tablet 60 Resin Cap 61 Cover body 62 Pushing section 63 Screw fixing part 63h screw through hole 64 Insertion Section 64g sealing component assembly groove 66 next door 67 First Rib 68 Second Rib P sealing position S screw

Claims

1. A connector for a machine, wherein, have: A terminal block having a resin housing and three or more terminals, the resin housing having a cylindrical portion and the terminals having connecting portions; and A connector cover that detachably covers one end opening of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical portion has an inner circumferential surface, which includes a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface facing the first inner circumferential surface. The resin housing partially covers and supports the three or more terminals so that their respective connecting portions are located within the cylindrical portion. The three or more connecting portions are arranged at intervals within the cylindrical portion along an arrangement direction intersecting the penetrating direction of the cylindrical portion, and protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the first portion to the inner peripheral surface of the second portion. The connector cover includes a resin cover portion and a sealing ring. The resin cover portion has a cover body portion, an insertion portion that is inserted into the cylindrical portion, and a plurality of partitions extending from the insertion portion toward the other end of the cylindrical portion. The sealing ring is fitted to the outer periphery of the insertion portion and contacts the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion. Each of the plurality of partitions extends toward the other end of the cylindrical portion at the position that separates the three or more connecting portions, and overlaps from the base end of the three or more connecting portions to the top end in the protruding direction of the connecting portions. The resin cap also includes a first rib and a second rib. The first rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the first portion from the first end of each of the plurality of partitions located on the base end side of the connecting portion and opening near the other end side of the cylindrical portion. The second rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the second portion from the second end of each of the plurality of partitions located on the top end side of the connecting portion and opening near the other end side of the cylindrical portion. A gap is provided between the second rib and the inner circumferential surface of the second part.

2. The machine connector according to claim 1, wherein, The Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin cap is greater than that of the resin shell.

3. A connector for a machine, wherein, have: A terminal block having a resin housing and three or more terminals, the resin housing having a cylindrical portion and the terminals having connecting portions; and A connector cover that detachably covers one end opening of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical portion has an inner circumferential surface, which includes a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface facing the first inner circumferential surface. The resin housing partially covers and supports the three or more terminals so that their respective connecting portions are located within the cylindrical portion. The three or more connecting portions are arranged at intervals within the cylindrical portion along an arrangement direction intersecting the penetrating direction of the cylindrical portion, and protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the first portion to the inner peripheral surface of the second portion. The connector cover includes a resin cover portion and a sealing ring. The resin cover portion has a cover body portion, an insertion portion that is inserted into the cylindrical portion, and a plurality of partitions extending from the insertion portion toward the other end of the cylindrical portion. The sealing ring is fitted to the outer periphery of the insertion portion and contacts the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion. Each of the plurality of partitions extends toward the other end of the cylindrical portion at the position that separates the three or more connecting portions, and overlaps from the base end of the three or more connecting portions to the top end in the protruding direction of the connecting portions. The resin cap also includes a first rib and a second rib. The first rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the first portion from the first end of each of the plurality of partitions located on the base end side of the connecting portion and opening near the other end side of the cylindrical portion. The second rib extends along the inner circumferential surface of the second portion from the second end of each of the plurality of partitions located on the top end side of the connecting portion and opening near the other end side of the cylindrical portion. The Rockwell hardness value HR of the resin cap is greater than that of the resin shell.

4. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The first rib and the second rib extend to the insertion portion.

5. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The second rib extends in a manner that connects the plurality of partitions.

6. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, In the insertion direction of the insertion portion, within the interval from the sealing position based on the sealing ring to at least a portion of the overlapping area of ​​the partition wall, the first part of the inner circumferential surface and the second part of the inner circumferential surface are positioned at a certain interval in the protruding direction of the connection portion.

7. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The portion of the connector cover that is inserted into the cylindrical part and is closest to the inner circumferential surface of the first part and the inner circumferential surface of the second part on its top side in the insertion direction is the partition wall.

8. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, The main body of the cover has a screw fixing part that is fastened to the machine thread of the object to be installed.

9. The machine connector according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein, One of the terminal block and the connector cover has a guide groove, and the other has a guided portion that is guided by the guide groove. The guide groove is a groove that restricts the passage path of the insertion part within the cylindrical part. The guide groove is formed such that the guided portion is guided before the end of the opening on the other side of the cylindrical portion in the partition wall reaches the position in the inner circumferential surface that contacts the sealing ring.

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