Connector assembly

Abstract

The present application provides a connector assembly that can easily fit a first connector and a second connector, and can improve contact reliability of a first contact and a second contact. In a state where a second insulator (23) is located at a fitting start position with respect to a first insulator (13), if a lever member (22) is rotated from an initial rotation position to a first rotation position, the second insulator is moved to a fitting position in a fitting direction by a cam mechanism, and if the lever member is further rotated from the first rotation position to a second rotation position, in a state where the second insulator is held at the fitting position, a first contact (14) and a second contact (24) are brought into contact with each other at a prescribed contact pressure by an outer peripheral cam surface (25D) of a rotation shaft member (25).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector assembly, and more particularly to a connector assembly in which a first connector and a second connector are engaged by rotating a rod member. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a connector assembly was known that utilized the rotation of a rod component to facilitate the mating action of a pair of connectors. For example, in Patent Document 1, such as... Figure 55 As shown, a connector assembly comprising a first connector 1 and a second connector 2 that engages with the first connector 1 along an engagement direction D is disclosed. A protrusion 1B is formed on the first housing 1A of the first connector 1 in a direction orthogonal to the engagement direction D. A rod member 3 is mounted on the outside of the second housing 2A of the second connector 2 in a manner that allows it to rotate around a pivot point 2B.

[0003] The rod component 3 has a guide groove (not shown) opposite to the outer side of the second housing 2A, so that the second connector 2 approaches the first connector 1 along the mating direction D. The rod component 3 is rotated while the protrusion 1B of the first connector 1 is inserted into the guide groove of the rod component 3, thereby mating the first connector 1 and the second connector 2.

[0004] Through the mating of the first connector 1 and the second connector 2, such as Figure 56 As shown, the first contact 1C disposed within the first housing 1A is electrically connected to the second contact 2D inserted into the contact insertion port 2C of the second connector 2.

[0005] The second contact 2D is connected to the front end of the wire 4. For example, by mounting the first connector 1 on an electrical device (not shown), current can flow through the electrical device via the wire 4.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-152265

[0009] When using this connector assembly to allow current to flow through electrical equipment, the larger the current, the thicker the wire 4 connected to the second contact 2D needs to be.

[0010] However, if the electrical equipment, such as that mounted in a vehicle, is placed in an environment subject to external forces such as vibration, the external forces are transmitted through the thick wire 4 to the contact point between the first contact 1C and the second contact 2D, which can cause poor contact.

[0011] Therefore, while increasing the contact force between the first contact 1C and the second contact 2D can improve contact reliability, it also increases the insertion force required to engage the second connector 2 with the first connector 1. Even with the rotation of the rod component 3, it becomes difficult to easily engage the first connector 1 with the second connector 2. Furthermore, increasing the contact force may damage the surfaces of the first contact 1C and the second contact 2D, reducing contact reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention was made to solve such existing problems, and its object is to provide a connector assembly that can easily fit a first connector and a second connector, and can improve the contact reliability between the first contact and the second contact.

[0013] The connector assembly of the present invention comprises:

[0014] A first connector has a first insulator and a first contact held in the first insulator;

[0015] The second connector has a second insulator and a second contact held in the second insulator, and is engaged with the first connector in the mating direction;

[0016] The rod component is held in one of the first and second insulators in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis;

[0017] A rotating shaft component, extending along a rotating shaft and rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the rod component, and having a cam surface for pressing the first and second contacts against each other; and

[0018] The cam mechanism, in conjunction with the rotation of the lever component, causes the first and second insulators to move relative to each other along the engagement direction.

[0019] With the second insulator in the engagement start position relative to the first insulator, when the rod component is rotated from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the second insulator moves towards the engagement position along the engagement direction via the cam mechanism. When the rod component is further rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, while the second insulator is held in the engagement position, the first contact and the second contact come into contact with each other at a specified contact pressure via the cam surface of the rotating shaft component.

[0020] It can be configured such that the first contact and the second contact extend along the engagement direction,

[0021] One of the first and second contacts is composed of a spring contact, and the other is composed of a fixed-side contact.

[0022] The cam surface of the rotating shaft component presses the spring contact toward the fixed side contact in a direction intersecting with the engagement direction, causing the first contact and the second contact to come into contact with each other.

[0023] Preferably, the spring contact has: a force point portion that contacts the cam surface of the rotating shaft component and receives pressing force from the cam surface; a fulcrum portion that serves as a fulcrum for the elastic deformation of the spring contact when the force point portion is subjected to pressing force; and a contact portion disposed between the force point portion and the fulcrum portion and in contact with the fixed-side contact.

[0024] The distance from the fulcrum to the force point is longer than the distance from the fulcrum to the contact point.

[0025] In the first embodiment, the rotating shaft component has a small-diameter portion and a large-diameter portion arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, based on the difference in diameter of the portion from the rotating shaft in a cross-section orthogonal to the rotating shaft.

[0026] The smaller diameter portion does not contact the force point of the spring contact when it is opposite to the force point of the spring contact, while the larger diameter portion does contact the force point of the spring contact when it is opposite to the force point of the spring contact.

[0027] The cam surface is composed of the outer peripheral cam surface disposed on the surface of the large-diameter portion.

[0028] During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the surface of the small diameter portion faces the force point of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the surface of the large diameter portion faces the force point of the spring contact, and the first and second contacts are pressed against each other by the outer peripheral cam surface.

[0029] In the second embodiment, the rotating shaft component can also be configured such that it is held in the second insulator in a manner that allows it to slide along the rotation axis direction of the rod component.

[0030] The rotating shaft component has a protrusion formed on its outer periphery.

[0031] The second insulator has a concave protrusion receiving portion for accommodating the protrusion.

[0032] The rotation of the rod member relative to the second insulator is locked by sliding the rotating shaft member relative to the second insulator to accommodate the protrusion in the protrusion receiving portion.

[0033] In the third embodiment, the rotating shaft component has an insertion groove that extends circumferentially along a plane orthogonal to the rotating shaft, into which the force point of the spring contact is inserted.

[0034] The insertion slot has a first side surface and a second side surface, which are respectively axially aligned along the rotation axis and circumferentially adjacent to each other.

[0035] The first side portion does not contact the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact, while the second side portion is formed as a cam surface that contacts the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact.

[0036] During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the first side face is opposite to the force point of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the second side face is opposite to the force point of the spring contact, and the first and second contacts are pressed against each other by the cam surface.

[0037] In the fourth embodiment, the rotating shaft component has a protruding plate that extends circumferentially along a plane orthogonal to the rotating shaft and is opposite the force point of the spring contact in the axial direction along the rotating shaft.

[0038] The protruding plate has a first outer surface surface and a second outer surface surface, which are respectively axially oriented along the axis of rotation and arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0039] The first outer surface portion does not contact the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact, while the second outer surface portion is formed as a cam surface that contacts the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact.

[0040] During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the first outer surface face is opposite to the force point of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the second outer surface face is opposite to the force point of the spring contact, and the first and second contacts are pressed against each other by the cam surface.

[0041] It can be configured such that the second contact is composed of a spring contact.

[0042] When the lever component is rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the cam surface contacts the second contact and presses the second contact against the first contact.

[0043] Furthermore, preferably, the rod component is rotatably held in place of the second insulator.

[0044] The cam mechanism has a cam groove formed in the rod member and a pin protruding from the first insulator and inserted into the cam groove.

[0045] Preferably, the second insulator has a pair of rotating shaft component receiving portions that accommodate both ends of the rotating shaft component to enable rotatability.

[0046] The first insulator has an abutting surface that abuts against the front end face of the second insulator when the second insulator is in the mating position.

[0047] The connector assembly includes: a waterproof seal for the mating portion, disposed on one of the abutment surface of the first insulator and the front end surface of the second insulator, and sealing the space between the abutment surface of the first insulator and the front end surface of the second insulator when the second insulator is in the mating position; and a pair of waterproof seals for the rotating shaft, respectively surrounding the two ends of the rotating shaft components, and sealing the space between the outer peripheral surfaces of the two ends of the rotating shaft components and the inner surfaces of the receiving portions of the pair of rotating shaft components.

[0048] The effects of the invention:

[0049] According to the present invention, when the second insulator is in the engagement start position relative to the first insulator, if the rod member is rotated from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the second insulator moves to the engagement position along the engagement direction via the cam mechanism. If the rod member is further rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, while the second insulator is held in the engagement position, the first contact and the second contact contact each other with a predetermined contact pressure via the cam surface of the rotating shaft member. This allows the first connector and the second connector to be easily engaged, and improves the contact reliability between the first contact and the second contact. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the state of the connector assembly before fitting according to Embodiment 1.

[0051] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the first connector used in Embodiment 1.

[0052] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the second connector used in Embodiment 1.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 1.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 1.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a side view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0058] Figure 9 This is a side view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0060] Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0061] Figure 12 This is a side view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0062] Figure 13 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0063] Figure 14 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0064] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 2 in the mating state.

[0065] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 2.

[0066] Figure 17 This is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 2, omitting the rod component.

[0067] Figure 18 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the connector assembly of Embodiment 2 in the mating state.

[0068] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 2, showing the state in which the rotation of the rod component is locked.

[0069] Figure 20 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 2, showing the state in which the rotation of the rod component is locked.

[0070] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing the state of the connector assembly before fitting according to Embodiment 3.

[0071] Figure 22This is an exploded perspective view of the first connector used in Embodiment 3.

[0072] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of the second connector used in Embodiment 3.

[0073] Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 3.

[0074] Figure 25 This is a partial top view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 3.

[0075] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0076] Figure 27 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0077] Figure 28 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0078] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0079] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0080] Figure 31 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0081] Figure 32 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0082] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0083] Figure 34 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0084] Figure 35This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0085] Figure 36 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0086] Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 3 when the rotation angle of the lever component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0087] Figure 38 This is a perspective view showing the state of the connector assembly before fitting according to embodiment 4.

[0088] Figure 39 This is an exploded perspective view of the first connector used in Embodiment 4.

[0089] Figure 40 This is an exploded perspective view of the second connector used in embodiment 4.

[0090] Figure 41 This is a perspective view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 4.

[0091] Figure 42 This is a partial top view showing the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 4.

[0092] Figure 43 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0093] Figure 44 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0094] Figure 45 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0095] Figure 46 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the lever component during the engagement operation is 0 degrees.

[0096] Figure 47 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0097] Figure 48This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0098] Figure 49 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0099] Figure 50 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 45 degrees.

[0100] Figure 51 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0101] Figure 52 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0102] Figure 53 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the rod component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0103] Figure 54 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft component used in Embodiment 4 when the rotation angle of the lever component during the engagement operation is 90 degrees.

[0104] Figure 55 This is a perspective view showing the existing connector assembly before mating.

[0105] Figure 56 This is a cross-sectional view showing an existing connector assembly in a mated state.

[0106] Figure Labels

[0107] 1 First connector, 1A First housing, 1B Protrusion, 1C First contact, 2 Second connector, 2A Second housing, 2B Rotating fulcrum, 2C Contact insertion port, 2D Second contact, 3 Rod component, 4 Wire, 11, 51, 71 First connector, 13, 53, 73 First insulator, 13A, 53A, 73A Base, 13B, 53B, 73B Protrusion, 13C, 53C, 73C Support, 13D, 53D, 73D Second contact receiving portion, 13E, 5 3E, 73E mating surfaces; 13F, 53F, 73F pins; 14, 54, 74 first contacts; 15, 27, 55, 75 housings; 16, 56, 76 waterproof seals; 21, 31, 61, 81 second connectors; 22, 32, 62, 82 rod components; 22A, 62A, 82A handles; 22B circular plate; 22C, 32A center holes; 22D, 62D, 82D cam grooves; 23, 33, 63, 83 second insulators; 23A, 63A... 83A through hole, 24, 64, 84 second contacts, 24A, 64A, 84A fulcrum, 24B, 64B, 84B contact, 24C, 64C, 84C force point, 25, 35, 65, 85 rotating shaft components, 25A cam, 25B, 35A, 65B, 85B insert, 25C, 65C, 85C seal retaining groove, 25D outer peripheral cam surface, 26 inner insulator, 28, 68, 88 rotating shaft waterproof seal, 29, 69, 8 9. Waterproof seal for fitting part, 33A protruding receiving part, 35B cylindrical part, 35C protrusion, 62B, 82B flat part, 62C, 82C mounting holes, 65A insertion groove, 85A protruding plate, C wire, AX rotating shaft, R1, R2 diameter dimensions, P1 small diameter part, P2 large diameter part, L1~L6, T1, T2 distance, S1, S2 step part, F11 first side part, F12 second side part, F21 first outer surface part, F22 second outer surface part, D fitting direction Detailed Implementation

[0108] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0109] Implementation Method 1

[0110] Figure 1 The diagram shows the connector assembly of Embodiment 1 before mating. The connector assembly includes a first connector 11 and a second connector 21 that mats with the first connector 11 in the mating direction. For example, the first connector 11 is mounted on an electrical device (not shown), and the second connector 21 is mounted on the ends of two wires C, thereby enabling the two wires C to be detachably connected to the electrical device via the connector assembly.

[0111] The engagement and disengagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are performed by operating a rod member 22, which is mounted to be rotatable relative to the second connector 21 about a rotation axis AX.

[0112] For convenience, the mating direction of the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 is referred to as the Z direction, the direction in which the rotation axis AX of the rod component 22 extends is referred to as the Y direction, and the direction orthogonal to the Z and Y directions is referred to as the X direction.

[0113] The second connector 21 moves from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction to engage with the first connector 11.

[0114] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the first connector 11 is shown. The first connector 11 has a first insulator 13 and a pair of first contacts 14 respectively held in the first insulator 13 and extending in the Z direction.

[0115] The first insulator 13 has: a flat base 13A extending along the XY plane; a pair of protrusions 13B that protrude from the surface of the base 13A in the +Z direction and are adjacent to each other in the X direction; and a pair of flat support portions 13C that are connected to the +Y and -Y direction ends of the base 13A respectively, and are opposite to each other in the Y direction and extend in the +Z direction.

[0116] Each of the pair of protrusions 13B has a concave second contact receiving portion 13D that opens toward the +Z direction and extends in the Z direction. Furthermore, the +Z direction side surface of the base portion 13A around the periphery of the pair of protrusions 13B forms an abutment surface 13E that contacts the second connector 21 when the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are engaged.

[0117] A pair of pins 13F protruding in the Y direction are formed on the opposing surfaces of a pair of support portions 13C. Figure 2 Only the pin 13F formed on the support portion 13C on the -Y direction side is shown, but the same pin 13F is also formed on the support portion 13C on the +Y direction side. These two pins 13F are arranged on the same straight line along the Y direction.

[0118] In addition, the first connector 11 has a pair of housings 15 fixed on the inner surfaces of a pair of second contact receiving portions 13D of the first insulator 13, and a waterproof seal 16 disposed on the -Z direction side of the base portion 13A of the first insulator 13.

[0119] Figure 3An exploded perspective view of the second connector 21 is shown. The second connector 21 has: a cylindrical second insulator 23; a rotating shaft member 25 that passes through the second insulator 23 in the Y direction and is rotatably mounted on the second insulator 23; a rod member 22 that is fixed to the rotating shaft member 25; and a pair of second contacts 24 that are connected to the ends of two wires C.

[0120] In addition, the second connector 21 has a pair of inner insulators 26 that respectively accommodate a pair of second contacts 24, and two sets of housings 27 that respectively surround the pair of inner insulators 26.

[0121] A pair of second contacts 24 are held inside the second insulator 23, respectively, while being housed in the inner insulator 26 and surrounded by the housing 27.

[0122] Furthermore, a pair of through holes 23A are formed on the side of the second insulator 23. These through holes 23A are for the rotating shaft component 25 to pass through and to accommodate the two ends of the rotating shaft component 25. Figure 3 The diagram shows only the through-hole 23A formed on the side portion of the second insulator 23 in the +Y direction, but the same through-hole 23A is also formed on the side portion of the second insulator 23 in the -Y direction. These two through-holes 23A are arranged on the same straight line along the Y direction.

[0123] The rod member 22 has a U-shaped handle portion 22A and a pair of circular plate portions 22B, which are connected to both ends of the handle portion 22A, are opposite each other in the Y direction, and extend along the XZ plane respectively. A central hole 22C is formed in each of the pair of circular plate portions 22B. The rod member 22 is held rotatable relative to the second insulator 23 by connecting its two ends to these central holes 22C through a pair of through holes 23A penetrating the second insulator 23.

[0124] Furthermore, cam grooves 22D are formed on the outer surfaces of the pair of circular plate portions 22B that face opposite directions. Figure 3 In the diagram, only the cam groove 22D formed on the circular plate portion 22B on the +Y direction side is shown, but the same cam groove 22D is also formed on the circular plate portion 22B on the -Y direction side.

[0125] A pair of pins 13F of the first insulator 13 are inserted into the cam grooves 22D of a pair of circular plate portions 22B. These cam grooves 22D and pins 13F constitute a cam mechanism. The cam mechanism is linked with the rotation of the rod member 22 to cause the first insulator 13 and the second insulator 23 to move relative to each other in the Z direction.

[0126] In addition, the second connector 21 has: a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 28 that surround the two ends of the rotating shaft component 25 along the XZ plane and seal the inner surface of the pair of through holes 23A of the second insulator 23 and the outer peripheral surface of the two ends of the rotating shaft component 25; and a fitting portion waterproof seal 29 that is disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 23 in the -Z direction and seals the abutment surface 13E of the first insulator 13 and the front end face of the second insulator 23 in the -Z direction when the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are fitted together.

[0127] like Figure 4 As shown, the rotating shaft component 25 extends along the rotating shaft AX in the Y direction. A cam portion 25A is formed at the center of the rotating shaft component 25 in the Y direction, and a pair of insert portions 25B extending in the Y direction are formed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 25 in the Y direction. Furthermore, a pair of annular sealing member retaining grooves 25C are formed between the cam portion 25A and the pair of insert portions 25B, respectively, along the XZ plane and formed on the outer periphery of the rotating shaft component 25.

[0128] A pair of inserts 25B are respectively inserted into the center holes 22C of the corresponding circular plate portions 22B of the rod member 22, thereby connecting with the rod member 22. In addition, a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 28 are held in the rotating shaft member 25 by being inserted into a pair of annular seal retaining grooves 25C.

[0129] like Figure 5 As shown, the cam portion 25A has a cross-sectional shape similar to an ellipse having a minor axis and a major axis. Along the circumference of the cam portion 25A, two small-diameter portions P1 with a smaller diameter dimension R1 at a distance of less than the rotation axis AX and two large-diameter portions P2 with a larger diameter dimension R2 at a distance of less than the rotation axis AX are alternately arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction at a 90-degree interval. The outer peripheral cam surface 25D is formed from the surface of the large-diameter portion P2.

[0130] Next, the engagement operation of the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 will be described.

[0131] like Figure 1 As shown, the rotation angle of the rod member 22 extending along the X direction of the handle portion 22A is referred to as "0 degrees", and the rotation position of the rod member 22 is referred to as "initial rotation position". The rod member 22 is mounted on the second connector 21 in such a way that the rotation angle can be rotated from 0 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0132] First, with the rotation angle of the rod component 22 at 0 degrees, the second connector 21 is moved towards the first connector 11 from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction, as follows: Figure 6As shown, the +Z direction portion of the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11 is inserted into the interior of the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21.

[0133] Therefore, as Figure 7 As shown, the pin 13F of the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11 is inserted into the entrance of the cam groove 22D of the rod member 22 of the second connector 21, and the second insulator 23 is located at the engagement start position relative to the first insulator 13.

[0134] Furthermore, in the second connector 21, the second contact 24, which is held inside the second insulator 23, is located in the same Y-direction position as the cam portion 25A, which is formed in the center of the rotating shaft component 25 that passes through the second insulator 23 in the Y-direction.

[0135] like Figure 8 As shown, the second contact 24 is composed of a spring contact bent into a U-shape, having a fulcrum portion 24A formed in the bent portion of the U-shape, a contact portion 24B located on the side closer to the +Z direction than the fulcrum portion 24A, and a force point portion 24C located on the side closer to the +Z direction than the contact portion 24B and forming a free end.

[0136] The force point 24C of the second contact 24 is located in the same Z-direction position as the rotation axis AX of the rotating shaft component 25, and is opposite to the cam portion 25A of the rotating shaft component 25. However, when the rotation angle of the rod component 22 is 0 degrees, the rotating shaft component 25 is connected to the rod component 22 with the small diameter portion P1 of the cam portion 25A of the rotating shaft component 25 facing the X-direction and the large diameter portion P2 facing the Z-direction. Therefore, in Figure 8 In the middle, the force point 24C of the second contact 24 is opposite to the small diameter part P1 of the rotating shaft component 25. The small diameter part P1 has a relatively small diameter dimension R1, so the force point 24C is in a state of not contacting the rotating shaft component 25.

[0137] Furthermore, at this time, the second contact 24, which is inside the second insulator 23, is inserted into the middle position in the Z direction within the second contact receiving portion 13D of the first connector 11, but the contact portion 24B of the second contact 24 has not yet reached the position opposite to the first contact 14 of the first connector 11.

[0138] Next, as Figure 9 As shown, if the lever component 22 is rotated so that the handle portion 22A is at a 45-degree angle relative to the X direction, then as Figure 10 As shown, the pin 13F of the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11 advances relative to the cam groove 22D of the rod member 22, and the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21 moves in the -Z direction relative to the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11.

[0139] Therefore, as Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 24B of the second contact 24 is in a state opposite to the side of the first contact 14 of the first connector 11. The Z-direction position of the second insulator 23 relative to the first insulator 13 at this time is called the "fitting position", and the rotational position of the rod member 22 is called the "first rotational position".

[0140] At this time, as the rod component 22 rotates, the rotating shaft component 25 also rotates 45 degrees around the rotating shaft AX. However, the outer peripheral cam surface 25D formed on the surface of the large diameter portion P2 has not yet faced the X direction, and the force point portion 24C of the second contact 24 continues not to contact the rotating shaft component 25.

[0141] like Figure 12 As shown, if the lever component 22 is rotated from this state until the handle portion 22A is 90 degrees relative to the X direction, then as Figure 13 As shown, the pin 13F of the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11 is inserted into the deepest part of the cam groove 22D of the rod member 22, but the Z-direction position of the second insulator 23 relative to the first insulator 13 does not change due to the shape of the cam groove 22D.

[0142] Therefore, as Figure 14 As shown, with the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21 held in the mating position relative to the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11, the contact portion 24B of the second contact 24 continues to face the side of the first contact 14 of the first connector 11.

[0143] On the other hand, as the rod member 22 rotates, the rotating shaft member 25 also rotates around the rotating shaft AX, and the outer peripheral cam surface 25D formed on the surface of the large diameter portion P2 is oriented towards the X direction. The large diameter portion P2 has a relatively large diameter dimension R2, so the outer peripheral cam surface 25D contacts the force point portion 24C of the second contact 24 and presses the force point portion 24C of the second contact 24 in the X direction.

[0144] Here, the distance L2 from the fulcrum portion 24A to the force point portion 24C in the second contact 24 is set to be longer than the distance L1 from the fulcrum portion 24A to the contact portion 24B. Therefore, according to the so-called lever principle, a force greater than the pressing force received by the force point portion 24C from the outer peripheral cam surface 25D of the rotating shaft component 25 acts on the contact portion 24B, and the contact portion 24B of the second contact 24 contacts the first contact 14 with a higher contact pressure.

[0145] The rotational position of the rod component 22 at this time is referred to as the "second rotational position".

[0146] Therefore, if the lever member 22 is rotated from the initial rotation position where the handle part 22A is at an angle of 0 degrees relative to the X direction to the first rotation position where the handle part 22A is at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the X direction, the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21 can be moved from the engagement start position to the engagement position relative to the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11 without the force point 24C of the second contact 24 contacting the rotating shaft member 25. This allows the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 to be easily engaged with a small insertion force.

[0147] Furthermore, if the rod member 22 is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position where the handle part 22A is at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the X direction, then when the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21 is held in the mating position relative to the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11, the force point 24C of the second contact 24 is pressed in the X direction by the outer peripheral cam surface 25D of the rotating shaft member 25, so that the contact point 24B of the second contact 24 can contact the first contact 14 with a higher contact pressure.

[0148] At this time, the first contact 14 and the second contact 24 do not rub against each other in the Z direction, but press against each other in the X direction, thus preventing damage to the surfaces of the first contact 14 and the second contact 24 and making an electrical connection.

[0149] Therefore, even when the first connector 11 is mounted on an electrical device in an environment subject to external forces such as vibration, the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 can be easily fitted together, and the first contact 14 and the second contact 24 can be made to contact with a higher contact pressure to achieve a reliable electrical connection.

[0150] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, when the second insulator 23 of the second connector 21 is in the mating position relative to the first insulator 13 of the first connector 11, the mating waterproof seal 29 disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 23 facing the -Z direction is pressed against the abutment surface 13E of the base 13A of the first insulator 13, and the front end face of the second insulator 23 and the abutment surface 13E are sealed.

[0151] Furthermore, the inner surface of the through hole 23A of the second insulator 23 is sealed with the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft component 25 by means of the rotating shaft waterproof seals 28 installed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 25 in the Y direction.

[0152] This prevents water from seeping into the connection between the first contact 14 and the second contact 24.

[0153] Implementation Method 2

[0154] Figure 15The connector assembly of Embodiment 2 is shown in the mating state. This connector assembly is configured such that the second connector 31, in place of the second connector 21, is mated with the first connector 11 in the connector assembly of Embodiment 1.

[0155] The second connector 31 has a second insulator 33, a rotating shaft component 35, and a rod component 32, the rotating shaft component 35 being held so as to slide relative to the second insulator 33 in the Y direction. Furthermore, similar to Embodiment 1, a pair of second contacts connected to the ends of the two wires C are held inside the second insulator 33.

[0156] like Figure 16 As shown, the rotating shaft component 35 replaces the embedded part 25B in the rotating shaft component 25 in Embodiment 1, and has an embedded part 35A formed at the end in the +Y direction. The other structures are the same as those of the rotating shaft component 25 in Embodiment 1.

[0157] The insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35 has: a cylindrical portion 35B that protrudes along the rotating shaft AX in the +Y direction; and a protrusion 35C that is integrally connected to the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 35B and protrudes radially in a fan shape when viewed from the Y direction.

[0158] like Figure 17 As shown, the second insulator 33 has the same structure as the second insulator 23 in Embodiment 1, except that a protruding receiving portion 33A that communicates with the through hole 23A and opens in the +Y direction is formed on the side portion on the +Y direction side.

[0159] Viewed from the Y direction, the protrusion receiving portion 33A has a shape corresponding to the protrusion 35C of the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35.

[0160] like Figure 15 As shown, the rod member 32 replaces the central hole 22C in the rod member 22 of Embodiment 1, and the central hole 32A is formed in the circular plate portion 22B on the +Y direction side. The other structures are the same as those of the rod member 22 in Embodiment 1.

[0161] Viewed from the Y direction, the central hole 32A of the rod member 32 has a shape corresponding to the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft member 35, that is, a protrusion is formed on the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion.

[0162] like Figure 18As shown, the rotating shaft component 35 is held in the second insulator 33 with the insert portion 35A inserted into the central hole 32A of the rod component 32. The insert portion 35A passes through a pair of through holes 23A in the second insulator 33 and is formed at the +Y direction end of the rotating shaft component 35. The central hole 32A of the rod component 32 has a shape corresponding to the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35. Therefore, if the insert portion 35A is inserted into the central hole 32A, the rod component 32 cannot be rotated relative to the rotating shaft component 35.

[0163] During the engagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 31, the rotating shaft component 35 slides in the +Y direction inside the pair of through holes 23A of the second insulator 33 and the central hole 32A of the rod component 32. The protrusion 35C of the insert portion 35A is positioned closer to the +Y direction than the protrusion receiving portion 33A of the second insulator 33. Therefore, the protrusion 35C of the insert portion 35A does not interfere with the protrusion receiving portion 33A of the second insulator 33, allowing the rod component 32 and the rotating shaft component 35 to rotate relative to the second insulator 33.

[0164] Thus, similar to embodiment 1, the first connector 11 and the second connector 31 can be easily fitted together, and the first contact and the second contact can be made to contact with a higher contact pressure, thereby achieving a reliable electrical connection.

[0165] Furthermore, if the first connector 11 and the second connector 31 are engaged, and the electrical connection between the first contact and the second contact is established, then as follows: Figure 19 As shown, the rotating shaft component 35 slides relative to the rod component 32 and the second insulator 33 in the -Y direction until the +Y direction end of the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35 forms the same surface as the +Y direction side surface of the rod component 32.

[0166] Therefore, as Figure 20 As shown, the protrusion 35C of the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35 is inserted into the protrusion receiving portion 33A of the second insulator 33. Figure 17 As shown, the protrusion receiving portion 33A of the second insulator 33 has a shape corresponding to the protrusion 35C. Therefore, if the protrusion 35C is inserted into the protrusion receiving portion 33A, the rotating shaft component 35 cannot be rotated relative to the second insulator 33.

[0167] Furthermore, at this time, the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35 is inserted into the center hole 32A of the rod component 32, so the rod component 32 cannot rotate relative to the rotating shaft component 35.

[0168] As a result, the rotation of the rod member 32 relative to the second insulator 33 is locked. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the electrical connection between the first connector 11 and the second connector 31 from being damaged due to rotation of the rod member 32 for any reason, and the reliability of the electrical connection can be further improved.

[0169] In addition, the protrusion 35C of the insert portion 35A of the rotating shaft component 35 is not necessarily fan-shaped; protrusions of various shapes can be formed on the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 35B.

[0170] Implementation Method 3

[0171] Figure 21 The diagram shows the connector assembly of Embodiment 3 before mating. The connector assembly includes a first connector 51 and a second connector 61 that mats with the first connector 51 in the mating direction. The second connector 61 is mounted at the ends of the two wires C.

[0172] The engagement and disengagement of the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are performed by operating a rod member 62, which is mounted to be rotatable relative to the second connector 61 about a rotation axis AX.

[0173] For convenience, the mating direction of the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 is referred to as the Z direction, the direction in which the rotation axis AX of the rod component 62 extends is referred to as the Y direction, and the direction orthogonal to the Z and Y directions is referred to as the X direction.

[0174] The second connector 61 moves from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction to engage with the first connector 51.

[0175] Figure 22 An exploded perspective view of the first connector 51 is shown. The first connector 51 has a first insulator 53 and a pair of first contacts 54 respectively held in the first insulator 53 and extending in the Z direction.

[0176] The first insulator 53 has: a flat base 53A extending along the XY plane; a pair of protrusions 53B that protrude from the surface of the base 53A in the +Z direction and are adjacent to each other in the Y direction; and a pair of flat support portions 53C that are connected to the +Y direction end and the -Y direction end of the base 53A respectively, and are opposite to each other in the Y direction and extend in the +Z direction.

[0177] Each of the pair of protrusions 53B has a concave second contact receiving portion 53D that opens toward the +Z direction and extends in the Z direction. Furthermore, the +Z direction side surface of the base portion 53A around the periphery of the pair of protrusions 53B forms an abutment surface 53E that contacts the second connector 61 when the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are engaged.

[0178] A pair of pins 53F protruding in the Y direction are formed on the opposing surfaces of a pair of support portions 53C. Figure 22 Only the pin 53F formed on the support portion 53C on the -Y direction side is shown, but the same pin 53F is also formed on the support portion 53C on the +Y direction side. These two pins 53F are arranged on the same straight line along the Y direction.

[0179] In addition, the first connector 51 has a pair of housings 55 fixed on the outer surfaces of a pair of protrusions 53B of the first insulator 53, and a waterproof seal 56 disposed on the surface of the base 53A of the first insulator 53 in the -Z direction.

[0180] Figure 23 An exploded perspective view of the second connector 61 is shown. The second connector 61 includes: a second insulator 63; a rotating shaft member 65 that passes through the second insulator 63 in the Y direction and is rotatably mounted on the second insulator 63; a rod member 62 that is fixed to the rotating shaft member 65; and a pair of second contacts 64 that are respectively connected to the ends of two wires C extending in the X direction.

[0181] In addition, the second connector 61 has a cover 66 that covers the +Z direction end of the second insulator 63.

[0182] A pair of second contacts 64 are respectively held inside the second insulator 63.

[0183] Furthermore, a pair of through holes 63A are formed on both sides of the second insulator 63 in the Y direction. These through holes 63A are for the rotating shaft component 65 to pass through and accommodate the two ends of the rotating shaft component 65.

[0184] The rod member 62 has a U-shaped handle portion 62A and a pair of flat plate portions 62B, which are connected to both ends of the handle portion 62A, are opposite each other in the Y direction, and extend along the XZ plane respectively. Mounting holes 62C are formed in each of the pair of flat plate portions 62B. The rod member 62 is held rotatable relative to the second insulator 63 by connecting the two ends of a rotating shaft member 65 that passes through a pair of through holes 63A in the second insulator 63 to these mounting holes 62C.

[0185] Furthermore, cam grooves 62D are formed on the outer surfaces of a pair of flat plates 62B that face opposite directions. Figure 23 In the diagram, only the cam groove 62D formed on the flat plate portion 62B on the +Y direction side is shown, but the same cam groove 62D is also formed on the flat plate portion 62B on the -Y direction side.

[0186] A pair of pins 53F of the first insulator 53 are inserted into the cam grooves 62D of a pair of flat plate portions 62B. These cam grooves 62D and pins 53F constitute a cam mechanism. The cam mechanism is rotated in conjunction with the rod member 62, causing the first insulator 53 and the second insulator 63 to move relative to each other in the Z direction.

[0187] Furthermore, the second connector 61 includes: a waterproof seal 67 that seals the +Z direction end of the second insulator 63 between the cover portion 66; a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 68 that surround the two ends of the rotating shaft component 65 along the XZ plane and seal the inner surface of the pair of through holes 63A of the second insulator 63 between the outer peripheral surfaces of the two ends of the rotating shaft component 65; and a fitting portion waterproof seal 69 that is disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 63 in the -Z direction and seals the abutment surface 53E of the first insulator 53 between the front end face of the second insulator 63 in the -Z direction when the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are fitted together.

[0188] like Figure 24 As shown, the rotating shaft component 65 extends along the rotating shaft AX in the Y direction. A pair of insertion grooves 65A are formed near the center of the rotating shaft component 65 in the Y direction. These insertion grooves 65A extend circumferentially along the XZ plane, which is orthogonal to the rotating shaft AX, and are spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. A pair of insert portions 65B extending in the Y direction are formed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 65 at its Y-direction. Furthermore, a pair of annular sealing member retaining grooves 65C are formed along the XZ plane on the outer periphery of the rotating shaft component 65 between the pair of insertion grooves 65A and the pair of insert portions 65B.

[0189] A pair of inserts 65B are respectively inserted into the mounting holes 62C of the corresponding flat plate portions 62B of the rod member 62, thereby connecting with the rod member 62. In addition, a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 68 are held in the rotating shaft member 65 by being inserted into a pair of annular seal retaining grooves 65C.

[0190] The pair of insertion slots 65A do not extend across the entire circumference of the rotating shaft component 65, but are formed only along the XZ plane within a specified angular range in the circumference, such as 180 degrees. Figure 25 As shown, the interiors of a pair of insertion slots 65A each have a stepped portion S1 formed on the side. The first side portion F11 and the second side portion F12 are arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft component 65, separated by the stepped portion S1. The first side portion F11 and the second side portion F12 are respectively oriented in the Y direction, which is the axial direction, along the rotating shaft AX. Due to the presence of the stepped portion S1, the second side portion F12 protrudes a distance T1 in the Y direction from the end of the first side portion F11 toward the rotating shaft component 65, thereby forming a cam surface.

[0191] In addition, not limited to the above structure, multiple cam surfaces can also be arranged circumferentially at certain angles along the XZ plane.

[0192] Next, the engagement operation of the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 will be described.

[0193] like Figure 21 As shown, the rotation angle of the rod member 62 extending along the Z direction of the handle portion 62A is referred to as "0 degrees", and the rotation position of the rod member 62 is referred to as "initial rotation position". The rod member 62 is mounted to the second connector 61 in such a way that the rotation angle can be rotated from 0 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0194] First, with the rotation angle of the rod component 62 at 0 degrees, the second connector 61 is moved towards the first connector 51 from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction, as follows: Figure 26 As shown, the +Z direction portion of the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51 is inserted into the interior of the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61.

[0195] Therefore, as Figure 27 As shown, the pin 53F of the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51 is inserted into the entrance of the cam groove 62D of the rod member 62 of the second connector 61, and the second insulator 63 is in the engagement start position relative to the first insulator 53.

[0196] Furthermore, the second contact 64, which remains inside the second insulator 63, is inserted into the middle position in the Z direction within the second contact receiving portion 53D of the first connector 51.

[0197] like Figure 28 As shown, the second contact 64 is composed of a spring contact bent into a U-shape, having a fulcrum portion 64A formed in the bent portion of the U-shape, a contact portion 64B located on the +Z direction side of the fulcrum portion 64A, and a force point portion 64C located on the +Z direction side of the contact portion 64B and forming a free end.

[0198] At this time, the contact portion 64B of the second contact 64 has not yet reached the position opposite to the first contact 54 of the first connector 51.

[0199] The force point portion 64C formed at the +Z direction end of the second contact 64 is inserted into the insertion groove 65A formed in the rotating shaft member 65. However, when the rotation angle of the rod member 62 is 0 degrees, as... Figure 29 As shown, the first side portion F11 of the insertion groove 65A is opposite to the force point portion 64C.

[0200] Therefore, as Figure 28As shown, the force point 64C of the second contact 64 is located at the position of the first side part F11 away from the insertion groove 65A in the Y direction, so that it is not in contact with the rotating shaft component 65.

[0201] Next, as Figure 30 As shown, if the lever component 62 is rotated so that the handle portion 62A is at a 45-degree angle relative to the Z direction, then as Figure 31 As shown, the pin 53F of the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51 advances relative to the cam groove 62D of the rod member 62, and the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61 moves in the -Z direction relative to the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51.

[0202] Therefore, as Figure 32 As shown, the contact portion 64B of the second contact 64 is positioned opposite the side of the first contact 54 of the first connector 51. The Z-direction position of the second insulator 63 relative to the first insulator 53 at this time is called the "fitting position", and the rotational position of the rod member 62 is called the "first rotational position".

[0203] At this time, along with the rotation of the rod component 62, the rotating shaft component 65 also rotates 45 degrees around the rotating shaft AX, but as Figure 33 As shown, the first side portion F11 of the insertion slot 65A is still opposite to the force point portion 64C, and the force point portion 64C of the second contact 64 continues to be in a state of not contacting the rotating shaft component 65.

[0204] like Figure 34 As shown, if the lever component 62 is rotated from this state until the handle portion 62A is 90 degrees relative to the Z direction, then as Figure 35 As shown, the pin 53F of the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51 is inserted into the deepest part of the cam groove 62D of the rod member 62, but the Z-direction position of the second insulator 63 relative to the first insulator 53 does not change due to the shape of the cam groove 62D.

[0205] Therefore, as Figure 36 As shown, with the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61 held in the mating position relative to the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51, the contact portion 64B of the second contact 64 continues to face the side of the first contact 54 of the first connector 51.

[0206] On the other hand, as the rod component 62 rotates, the rotating shaft component 65 also rotates around the rotating axis AX, such as Figure 37As shown, the second side portion F12 of the insertion groove 65A forming the cam surface is positioned opposite the force point portion 64C. The second side portion F12 protrudes a distance T1 in the Y direction from the end of the first side portion F11 toward the rotating shaft member 65, so the second side portion F12 contacts the force point portion 64C of the second contact 64 and presses the force point portion 64C of the second contact 64 in the Y direction.

[0207] Here, the distance L4 from the fulcrum portion 64A to the force point portion 64C in the second contact 64 is set to be longer than the distance L3 from the fulcrum portion 64A to the contact portion 64B. Therefore, according to the so-called lever principle, a force greater than the pressing force received by the force point portion 64C from the second side surface portion F12 of the insertion groove 65A of the rotating shaft component 65 acts on the contact portion 64B, and the contact portion 64B of the second contact 64 contacts the first contact 54 with a higher contact pressure.

[0208] The rotational position of the rod component 62 at this time is referred to as the "second rotational position".

[0209] Therefore, if the rod member 62 is rotated from the initial rotation position where the handle part 62A is at an angle of 0 degrees relative to the Z direction to the first rotation position where the handle part 62A is at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the Z direction, the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61 can be moved from the engagement start position to the engagement position relative to the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51 without the force point part 64C of the second contact 64 contacting the rotating shaft member 65. This allows the first connector 51 to be easily engaged with the second connector 61 with a small insertion force.

[0210] Furthermore, if the rod member 62 is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position where the handle part 62A is at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the Z direction, then with the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61 in the mating position relative to the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51, the second side part F12 of the insertion groove 65A of the rotating shaft member 65 presses the force point part 64C of the second contact 64 in the Y direction, and the contact part 64B of the second contact 64 can contact the first contact 54 with a higher contact pressure.

[0211] At this time, the first contact 54 and the second contact 64 do not rub against each other in the Z direction, but press against each other in the Y direction, thus preventing damage to the surfaces of the first contact 54 and the second contact 64 and making an electrical connection.

[0212] In addition, such as Figure 35As shown, when the second insulator 63 of the second connector 61 is in the mating position relative to the first insulator 53 of the first connector 51, the mating waterproof seal 69 disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 63 facing the -Z direction is pressed against the abutment surface 53E of the base 53A of the first insulator 53, and the front end face of the second insulator 63 and the abutment surface 53E are sealed.

[0213] Furthermore, the inner surface of the through hole 63A of the second insulator 63 is sealed to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft component 65 by means of the rotating shaft waterproof seals 68 installed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 65 in the Y direction.

[0214] In addition, the +Z direction end of the second insulator 63 is sealed with a waterproof seal 67 between itself and the cover 66.

[0215] This prevents water from seeping into the connection between the first contact 54 and the second contact 64 from the outside.

[0216] Implementation Method 4

[0217] Figure 38 The diagram shows the connector assembly of Embodiment 4 before mating. The connector assembly includes a first connector 71 and a second connector 81 that mats with the first connector 71 in the mating direction. The second connector 81 is mounted at the ends of the two wires C.

[0218] The engagement and disengagement of the first connector 71 and the second connector 81 are performed by operating a rod member 82, which is mounted to be rotatable relative to the second connector 81 about a rotation axis AX.

[0219] For convenience, the mating direction of the first connector 71 and the second connector 81 is referred to as the Z direction, the direction in which the rotation axis AX of the rod component 82 extends is referred to as the Y direction, and the direction orthogonal to the Z and Y directions is referred to as the X direction.

[0220] The second connector 81 moves from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction to engage with the first connector 71.

[0221] Figure 39 An exploded perspective view of the first connector 71 is shown. The first connector 71 has a first insulator 73 and a pair of first contacts 74 respectively held in the first insulator 73 and extending in the Z direction.

[0222] The first insulator 73 has: a flat base 73A extending along the XY plane; a pair of protrusions 73B that protrude from the surface of the base 73A in the +Z direction and are adjacent to each other in the Y direction; and a pair of flat support portions 73C that are connected to the +Y direction end and the -Y direction end of the base 73A respectively, and are opposite to each other in the Y direction and extend in the +Z direction.

[0223] Each of the pair of protrusions 73B has a concave second contact receiving portion 73D that opens toward the +Z direction and extends in the Z direction. Furthermore, the +Z direction side surface of the base portion 73A of the periphery of the pair of protrusions 73B forms an abutment surface 73E that contacts the second connector 81 when the first connector 71 and the second connector 81 are engaged.

[0224] A pair of pins 73F protruding in the Y direction are formed on the opposing surfaces of a pair of support portions 73C. Figure 39 Only the pin 73F formed on the support portion 73C on the -Y direction side is shown, but the same pin 73F is also formed on the support portion 73C on the +Y direction side. These two pins 73F are arranged on the same straight line along the Y direction.

[0225] In addition, the first connector 71 has a pair of housings 75 fixed on the outer surfaces of a pair of protrusions 73B of the first insulator 73, and a waterproof seal 76 disposed on the surface of the base 73A of the first insulator 73 in the -Z direction.

[0226] Figure 40 An exploded perspective view of the second connector 81 is shown. The second connector 81 includes: a second insulator 83; a rotating shaft member 85 that passes through the second insulator 83 in the Y direction and is rotatably mounted on the second insulator 83; a rod member 82 that is fixed to the rotating shaft member 85; and a pair of second contacts 84 that are respectively connected to the ends of two wires C extending in the X direction.

[0227] In addition, the second connector 81 has a cover 86 that covers the +Z direction end of the second insulator 83.

[0228] A pair of second contacts 84 are respectively held inside the second insulator 83.

[0229] Furthermore, a pair of through holes 83A are formed on both sides of the second insulator 83 in the Y direction. These through holes 83A are for the rotating shaft component 85 to pass through and accommodate the two ends of the rotating shaft component 85.

[0230] The rod member 82 has a U-shaped handle portion 82A and a pair of flat plate portions 82B, which are connected to both ends of the handle portion 82A, are opposite each other in the Y direction, and extend along the XZ plane respectively. Mounting holes 82C are formed in each of the pair of flat plate portions 82B. The rod member 82 is held rotatable relative to the second insulator 83 by connecting the two ends of a rotating shaft member 85 that passes through a pair of through holes 83A in the second insulator 83 to these mounting holes 82C.

[0231] Furthermore, cam grooves 82D are formed on the outer surfaces of the pair of flat plates 82B that face opposite directions. Figure 40 In the diagram, only the cam groove 82D formed on the flat plate portion 82B on the +Y direction side is shown, but the same cam groove 82D is also formed on the flat plate portion 82B on the -Y direction side.

[0232] A pair of pins 73F of the first insulator 73 are inserted into the cam grooves 82D of a pair of flat plate portions 82B. These cam grooves 82D and pins 73F constitute a cam mechanism. The cam mechanism is linked with the rotation of the rod member 82 to cause the first insulator 73 and the second insulator 83 to move relative to each other in the Z direction.

[0233] Furthermore, the second connector 81 includes: a waterproof seal 87 that seals the +Z direction end of the second insulator 83 between the cover portion 86; a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 88 that surround the two ends of the rotating shaft component 85 along the XZ plane and seal the inner surface of the pair of through holes 83A of the second insulator 83 between the outer peripheral surfaces of the two ends of the rotating shaft component 85; and a fitting portion waterproof seal 89 that is disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 83 in the -Z direction and seals the abutment surface 73E of the first insulator 73 between the front end face of the second insulator 83 in the -Z direction when the first connector 71 and the second connector 81 are fitted together.

[0234] like Figure 41 As shown, the rotating shaft component 85 extends along the rotating shaft AX in the Y direction. A pair of protruding plates 85A are formed near the center of the rotating shaft component 85 in the Y direction. These protruding plates 85A extend circumferentially along the XZ plane, which is orthogonal to the rotating shaft AX, and are spaced apart from each other in the Y direction. A pair of insert portions 85B extending in the Y direction are formed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 85. Furthermore, a pair of annular sealing grooves 85C are formed along the XZ plane on the outer periphery of the rotating shaft component 85 between the pair of protruding plates 85A and the pair of insert portions 85B.

[0235] A pair of inserts 85B are respectively inserted into the mounting holes 82C of the corresponding flat plate portions 82B of the rod member 82, thereby connecting with the rod member 82. In addition, a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals 88 are held in the rotating shaft member 85 by being inserted into a pair of annular seal retaining grooves 85C.

[0236] The pair of protruding plates 85A do not extend across the entire circumference of the rotating shaft component 85, but are formed only along the XZ plane within a specified angular range in the circumference, such as 180 degrees. Figure 42 As shown, a pair of protruding plates 85A each have a stepped portion S2 formed on a surface facing the Y direction. The first outer surface portion F21 and the second outer surface portion F22 are arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft component 85, separated by the stepped portion S2. The first outer surface portion F21 and the second outer surface portion F22 are respectively oriented along the rotation axis AX in the Y direction, which is the axial direction. Due to the presence of the stepped portion S2, the second outer surface portion F22 protrudes a distance T2 in the Y direction from the end of the first outer surface portion F21 facing the rotating shaft component 85, thereby forming a cam surface.

[0237] In addition, not limited to the above structure, multiple cam surfaces can also be arranged circumferentially at certain angles along the XZ plane.

[0238] Next, the engagement operation of the first connector 71 and the second connector 81 will be explained.

[0239] like Figure 38 As shown, the rotation angle of the rod member 82 extending along the Z direction of the handle portion 82A is referred to as "0 degrees", and the rotation position of the rod member 82 is referred to as "initial rotation position". The rod member 82 is mounted on the second connector 81 in such a way that the rotation angle can be rotated from 0 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0240] First, with the rotation angle of the rod component 82 at 0 degrees, the second connector 81 is moved towards the first connector 71 from the +Z direction toward the -Z direction, as follows: Figure 43 As shown, the +Z direction portion of the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71 is inserted into the interior of the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81.

[0241] Therefore, as Figure 44 As shown, the pin 73F of the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71 is inserted into the entrance of the cam groove 82D of the rod member 82 of the second connector 81, and the second insulator 83 is in the engagement start position relative to the first insulator 73.

[0242] Furthermore, the second contact 84, which remains inside the second insulator 83, is inserted into the middle position in the Z direction within the second contact receiving portion 73D of the first connector 71.

[0243] like Figure 45 As shown, the second contact 84 is composed of a spring contact bent into a U-shape, having a fulcrum portion 84A formed in the bent portion of the U-shape, a contact portion 84B located on the +Z direction side of the fulcrum portion 84A, and a force point portion 84C located on the +Z direction side of the contact portion 84B and forming a free end.

[0244] At this time, the contact portion 84B of the second contact 84 has not yet reached the position opposite to the first contact 74 of the first connector 71.

[0245] The force point portion 84C formed at the +Z direction end of the second contact 84 is located at the same Z direction position as the protruding plate 85A formed on the rotating shaft member 85, but when the rotation angle of the rod member 82 is 0 degrees, such as Figure 46 As shown, the first outer surface part F21 of the protruding plate 85A is opposite to the force point part 84C.

[0246] Therefore, as Figure 45 As shown, the force point 84C of the second contact 84 is located at the position of the first outer surface part F21 of the protruding plate 85A in the Y direction, so that it is not in contact with the rotating shaft component 85.

[0247] Next, as Figure 47 As shown, if the lever component 82 is rotated so that the handle portion 82A is at a 45-degree angle relative to the Z direction, then as Figure 48 As shown, the pin 73F of the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71 advances relative to the cam groove 82D of the rod member 82, and the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81 moves in the -Z direction relative to the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71.

[0248] Therefore, as Figure 49 As shown, the contact portion 84B of the second contact 84 is positioned opposite the side of the first contact 74 of the first connector 71. The Z-direction position of the second insulator 83 relative to the first insulator 73 at this time is called the "fitting position", and the rotational position of the rod member 82 is called the "first rotational position".

[0249] At this time, along with the rotation of the rod component 82, the rotating shaft component 85 also rotates 45 degrees around the rotating shaft AX, but as Figure 50 As shown, the first outer surface part F21 of the protruding plate 85A is still opposite to the force point part 84C, and the force point part 84C of the second contact 84 continues to be in a state of not contacting the rotating shaft component 85.

[0250] like Figure 51 As shown, if the lever component 82 is rotated from this state until the handle portion 82A is 90 degrees relative to the Z direction, then as Figure 52As shown, the pin 73F of the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71 is inserted into the deepest part of the cam groove 82D of the rod member 82, but the Z-direction position of the second insulator 83 relative to the first insulator 73 does not change due to the shape of the cam groove 82D.

[0251] Therefore, as Figure 53 As shown, with the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81 held in the mating position relative to the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71, the contact portion 84B of the second contact 84 continues to face the side of the first contact 74 of the first connector 71.

[0252] On the other hand, as the rod component 82 rotates, the rotating shaft component 85 also rotates around the rotating axis AX, as shown below. Figure 54 As shown, the second outer surface portion F22 of the protruding plate 85A forming the cam surface is positioned opposite the force point portion 84C. The second outer surface portion F22 protrudes a distance T2 in the Y direction from the end of the first outer surface portion F21 toward the rotating shaft component 85. Therefore, the second outer surface portion F22 contacts the force point portion 84C of the second contact 84 and presses the force point portion 84C of the second contact 84 in the Y direction.

[0253] Here, the distance L6 from the fulcrum portion 84A to the force point portion 84C in the second contact 84 is set to be longer than the distance L5 from the fulcrum portion 84A to the contact portion 84B. Therefore, according to the so-called lever principle, a force greater than the pressing force received by the force point portion 84C from the second outer surface part F22 of the protruding plate 85A of the rotating shaft component 85 acts on the contact portion 84B, and the contact portion 84B of the second contact 84 contacts the first contact 74 with a higher contact pressure.

[0254] The rotational position of the rod component 82 at this time is referred to as the "second rotational position".

[0255] Therefore, if the rod member 82 is rotated from the initial rotation position where the handle part 82A is at an angle of 0 degrees relative to the Z direction to the first rotation position where the handle part 82A is at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the Z direction, the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81 can be moved from the engagement start position to the engagement position relative to the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71 without the force point part 84C of the second contact 84 contacting the rotating shaft member 85. This allows the first connector 71 to be easily engaged with the second connector 81 with a small insertion force.

[0256] Furthermore, if the rod member 82 is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position where the handle part 82A is at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the Z direction, then with the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81 in the mating position relative to the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71, the second outer surface part F22 of the protruding plate 85A of the rotating shaft member 85 presses the force point part 84C of the second contact 84 in the Y direction, and the contact part 84B of the second contact 84 can contact the first contact 74 with a higher contact pressure.

[0257] At this time, the first contact 74 and the second contact 84 do not rub against each other in the Z direction, but press against each other in the Y direction, thus preventing damage to the surfaces of the first contact 74 and the second contact 84 and making an electrical connection.

[0258] In addition, such as Figure 52 As shown, when the second insulator 83 of the second connector 81 is in the mating position relative to the first insulator 73 of the first connector 71, the mating waterproof seal 89 disposed on the front end face of the second insulator 83 facing the -Z direction is pressed against the abutment surface 73E of the base 73A of the first insulator 73, and the front end face of the second insulator 83 and the abutment surface 83E are sealed.

[0259] Furthermore, the inner surface of the through hole 83A of the second insulator 83 is sealed with the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft component 85 by means of the rotating shaft waterproof seals 88 installed at both ends of the rotating shaft component 85 in the Y direction.

[0260] In addition, the +Z direction end of the second insulator 83 is sealed with a waterproof seal 87 between itself and the cover portion 86.

[0261] This prevents water from seeping into the connection between the first contact 74 and the second contact 84 from the outside.

[0262] In addition, in the above embodiments 1 to 4, the initial rotation position, the first rotation position and the second rotation position of the rod components 22, 32, 62 and 82 are set to positions with rotation angles of 0 degrees, 45 degrees and 90 degrees, respectively. However, they are not limited to this and can be set to other rotation angles.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, characterized in that, have: A first connector has a first insulator and a first contact held in the first insulator; The second connector has a second insulator and a second contact held in the second insulator, and engages with the first connector in the engagement direction; The rod component is held in one of the first insulator and the second insulator in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis; A rotating shaft component, extending along the rotating shaft and rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the rod component, and having a cam surface for pressing the first contact and the second contact against each other; and The cam mechanism, in conjunction with the rotation of the rod component, causes the first insulator and the second insulator to move relative to each other along the engagement direction. With the second insulator in the engagement start position relative to the first insulator, when the rod component is rotated from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the second insulator moves towards the engagement position along the engagement direction via the cam mechanism, and the first contact and the second contact remain in contact with the cam surface of the rotating shaft component; when the rod component is further rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, while the second insulator is held in the engagement position, the first contact and the second contact contact each other with a predetermined contact pressure via the cam surface of the rotating shaft component.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first contact and the second contact extend along the engagement direction, respectively. One of the first contact and the second contact is composed of a spring contact, and the other is composed of a fixed-side contact. The cam surface of the rotating shaft component presses the spring contact toward the fixed side contact in a direction intersecting the engagement direction, causing the first contact and the second contact to come into contact with each other.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The spring contact has: a force point portion that contacts the cam surface of the rotating shaft component and receives pressing force from the cam surface; and a fulcrum portion that serves as a fulcrum for the elastic deformation of the spring contact when the force point portion is subjected to the pressing force. And a contact portion, disposed between the force point portion and the fulcrum portion, and in contact with the fixed-side contact. The distance from the fulcrum to the force point is longer than the distance from the fulcrum to the contact point.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating shaft component has a small-diameter portion and a large-diameter portion arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, based on the difference in diameter from the rotating shaft in a cross-section orthogonal to the rotating shaft. The smaller diameter portion does not contact the force point portion of the spring contact when it is opposite to the force point portion, while the larger diameter portion contacts the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact. The cam surface is formed by the outer peripheral cam surface disposed on the surface of the large-diameter portion. During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the surface of the small diameter portion faces the force point of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the surface of the large diameter portion faces the force point of the spring contact, and the first contact and the second contact are pressed against each other by the outer peripheral cam surface.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rotating shaft component is held in the second insulator in a manner that allows it to slide along the rotation axis direction of the rod component. The rotating shaft component has a protrusion formed on its outer periphery. The second insulator has a concave protrusion receiving portion for accommodating the protrusion. The rotation of the rod member relative to the second insulator is locked by sliding the rotating shaft member relative to the second insulator to accommodate the protrusion in the protrusion receiving portion.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating shaft component has an insertion groove that extends circumferentially along a plane orthogonal to the rotating shaft and into which the force point portion of the spring contact is inserted. The insertion slot has a first side surface and a second side surface, which are respectively axially aligned along the rotation axis and circumferentially adjacent to each other. The first side portion does not contact the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact, while the second side portion is formed on the cam surface that contacts the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact. During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the first side portion faces the force point portion of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the second side portion faces the force point portion of the spring contact, and the first contact and the second contact are pressed against each other by the cam surface.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating shaft component has a protruding plate that extends circumferentially along a plane orthogonal to the rotating shaft and is opposite the force point of the spring contact in the axial direction along the rotating shaft. The protruding plate has a first outer surface surface and a second outer surface surface, which are respectively axially oriented along the rotation axis and circumferentially adjacent to each other. The first outer surface portion does not contact the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact, while the second outer surface portion is formed on the cam surface that contacts the force point portion when it is opposite to the force point portion of the spring contact. During the rotation of the rod component from the initial rotation position to the first rotation position, the first outer surface portion faces the force point portion of the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the second outer surface portion faces the force point portion of the spring contact, and the first contact and the second contact are pressed against each other by the cam surface.

8. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, The second contact is formed by the spring contact. When the rod component is rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the cam surface contacts the second contact and presses the second contact against the first contact.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rod component can be rotatably held in place of the second insulator. The cam mechanism has a cam groove formed in the rod member and a pin protruding from the first insulator and inserted into the cam groove.

10. The connector assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second insulator has a pair of rotating shaft component receiving portions that accommodate both ends of the rotating shaft component to enable rotatability. The first insulator has an abutting surface that abuts against the front end face of the second insulator when the second insulator is in the fitted position. The connector assembly includes: a fitting waterproof seal disposed on one of the abutment surface of the first insulator and the front end surface of the second insulator, and sealing between the abutment surface of the first insulator and the front end surface of the second insulator when the second insulator is in the fitting position; and a pair of rotating shaft waterproof seals disposed to respectively surround the two ends of the rotating shaft components, and sealing between the outer peripheral surfaces of the two ends of the rotating shaft components and the inner surfaces of the receiving portions of the pair of rotating shaft components.

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