connector

Abstract

A connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of terminals, a plurality of electric wires, a housing including a cylindrical portion having an opening, and a cover (70) inserted into the cylindrical portion to cover the opening. The cover (70) has a cover main body (80) having a vent hole (81a) and a vent film (100) covering the vent hole (81a). The cover main body (80) has an inner wall (86) surrounding an outer periphery of the vent film (100) and an outer wall (89) located on an outer periphery side of the inner wall (86) and surrounding an outer periphery edge of the cover main body (80). The inner wall (86) has an inner side discharge port (88) that communicates inside and outside of the inner wall (86) in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. The outer wall (89) has an outer side discharge port (90) that communicates inside and outside of the outer wall (89) in the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction. The inner side discharge port (88) faces the inner peripheral surface of the outer wall (89). The outer side discharge port (90) faces the outer peripheral surface of the inner wall (86).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, connectors for connecting to electrical equipment used in vehicles were known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The connector described in Patent Document 1 includes multiple wires with terminals, a resin housing in which the multiple wires with terminals are embedded, and a sealing cap covering the housing.

[0003] The housing has a cylindrical cover with an opening that exposes the terminals.

[0004] The sealing cap comprises a cap body covering an opening in the cover, a vent membrane, and a metal shielding shell assembled to the cap body. The cap body has a fitting portion that engages with the interior of the cover. A vent hole penetrating the axial direction of the cover is provided in the fitting portion. The vent membrane covers the vent hole. The vent membrane is both waterproof and breathable. Using the vent membrane, gas is allowed to pass through the vent hole while liquid is prevented from passing through.

[0005] An annular surrounding wall protruding in the direction of the aforementioned axis is provided around the vent. This surrounding wall helps prevent the operator's fingers from coming into contact with the vent membrane, for example, during operations such as assembling the shielding shell and the main body of the cover.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-92069 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, it is possible for liquids such as water to seep between the cover body and the shielding shell. When such a liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the surrounding wall, it may remain on the surface of the venting membrane.

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a connector that can inhibit the retention of liquid in a ventilated membrane.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] The connector disclosed herein comprises: a plurality of terminals arranged side by side; a plurality of wires respectively connected to the plurality of terminals; a resin housing including a cylindrical portion and a retaining portion, the cylindrical portion having an opening exposing the ends of the plurality of terminals, the retaining portion protruding from the cylindrical portion toward the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion and retaining the plurality of terminals and the plurality of wires; and a cover inserted into the cylindrical portion, covering the opening, wherein bolt holes are provided at the ends of the terminals, the bolt holes penetrating in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion and into which bolts are inserted, the cover having: a resin cover body having a vent hole penetrating in the axial direction, covering the opening. The cover body comprises: an opening; and a vent membrane covering the vent from the side opposite to the plurality of terminals in the axial direction, allowing gas passage and preventing liquid passage; the cover body having: an inner wall surrounding the outer periphery of the vent membrane; and an outer wall located on the outer periphery side of the inner wall and including the outer periphery of the cover body; the inner wall having an inner outlet communicating with the inside and outside of the inner wall in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction; the outer wall having an outer outlet communicating with the inside and outside of the outer wall in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction; the inner outlet facing the inner periphery of the outer wall; and the outer outlet facing the outer periphery of the inner wall.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to this disclosure, it is possible to suppress liquid retention in the ventilated membrane. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle on which the connector is mounted according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a 3D view of the connector.

[0018] Figure 3 This is an exploded 3D view of the connector.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a bottom view of the casing.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a 3D view of the shell.

[0022] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 A sectional view along line 7-7.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a side view of the casing.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a side view of the casing.

[0025] Figure 10 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the shell along line 10-10.

[0026] Figure 11 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the shell along line 11-11.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional view of the first sealing component.

[0028] Figure 13 This is a exploded 3D diagram of the lid.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a top view of the lid.

[0030] Figure 15 It's a 3D model of the cover.

[0031] Figure 16 This is a sectional perspective view of the lid.

[0032] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector.

[0033] Figure 18 This is a top view of the connector. Detailed Implementation

[0034] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0035] The embodiments of this disclosure are first described by listing them.

[0036] [1] The connector disclosed herein comprises: a plurality of terminals arranged side by side; a plurality of wires respectively connected to the plurality of terminals; a resin housing including a cylindrical portion and a retaining portion, the cylindrical portion having an opening exposing the ends of the plurality of terminals, the retaining portion protruding from the cylindrical portion toward the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion and retaining the plurality of terminals and the plurality of wires; and a cover inserted into the cylindrical portion, covering the opening, wherein bolt holes are provided at the ends of the terminals, the bolt holes penetrating in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion and into which bolts are inserted, the cover having: a resin cover body having a vent hole penetrating in the axial direction, covering the terminals. An opening; and a vent membrane covering the vent from the side opposite to the plurality of terminals in the axial direction, allowing gas passage and preventing liquid passage, the cover body having: an inner wall surrounding the outer periphery of the vent membrane; and an outer wall located on the outer periphery side of the inner wall and including the outer periphery of the cover body, the inner wall having an inner outlet communicating with the inside and outside of the inner wall in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, the outer wall having an outer outlet communicating with the inside and outside of the outer wall in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, the inner outlet facing the inner periphery of the outer wall, and the outer outlet facing the outer periphery of the inner wall.

[0037] According to this structure, when liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the inner wall, the liquid easily drains out through the inner outlet to the outer circumference of the inner wall. Similarly, when liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the outer wall, the liquid easily drains out through the outer outlet to the outer circumference of the outer wall. Here, the inner outlet faces the inner circumference of the outer wall, and the outer outlet faces the outer circumference of the inner wall. Therefore, for example, when liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the outer wall through the outer outlet, the liquid does not easily reach the inner outlet directly. Thus, liquid does not easily seep into the inner circumference of the inner wall. Based on the above, liquid retention in the ventilated membrane can be suppressed.

[0038] [2] Preferably, when the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the inner outlet is designated as the first imaginary axis and the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the outer outlet is designated as the second imaginary axis, the entire inner outlet is positioned in the axial direction of the second imaginary axis closer to the location of the outer outlet than the intersection of the first imaginary axis and the second imaginary axis.

[0039] According to this structure, when the connector is configured with its outer outlet facing downwards in a vertical direction, the inner outlet faces downwards at an angle. As a result, liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall easily drains through the inner outlet to the outer circumference of the inner wall due to its own weight. At this time, with the outer outlet facing downwards, liquid drained from the inner outlet easily drains through the outer outlet to the outer circumference of the outer wall due to its own weight. Therefore, by configuring the connector in the above-described manner, the effect of preventing liquid retention in the venting membrane is more significant.

[0040] [3] Preferably, the inner wall has a first end edge and a second end edge forming the inner outlet, the first end edge being located near the outer outlet than the second end edge, and the inner wall is provided with an extension including the first end edge, the extension extending obliquely relative to the second imaginary axis as it moves toward the first end edge and closer to the outer outlet in the axial direction of the second imaginary axis.

[0041] According to this structure, when the connector is configured with its outer outlet facing downwards in a vertical direction, the extension extends obliquely downwards. As a result, liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall, upon reaching the extension due to its own weight, flows obliquely downwards along the extension. Consequently, the liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall is easily discharged to the outer circumference of the inner wall through the inner outlet. Therefore, by configuring the connector in the above-described manner, the effect of preventing liquid retention in the venting membrane can be further enhanced.

[0042] [4] Preferably, it has a metal shielding shell that covers the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion and covers the outer outlet from the outer periphery of the outer wall.

[0043] According to this structure, the outer outlet is covered by a shielding shell from the outer periphery of the outer wall. Therefore, liquid cannot easily seep in from the outer periphery to the inner periphery of the outer wall through the outer outlet. This effectively prevents liquid from reaching the venting membrane.

[0044] [5] Preferably, the cover body has a partition wall located between two adjacent terminals.

[0045] According to this structure, because the partition is located between two adjacent terminals, proper insulation between the two terminals can be achieved. Furthermore, compared to using a cover body without a partition, the insulation distance between the two terminals can be reduced. Therefore, the increase in the size of the connector in the parallel direction of multiple terminals can be suppressed.

[0046] [6] Preferably, the cover body has: an opposing wall located on the side opposite to the partition wall and opposite to the partition wall, separated by one of the terminals; and a connecting wall located on the side opposite to the retaining portion and connecting the partition wall and the opposing wall, wherein the connecting wall is configured to restrict the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion by contacting the terminal when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a state of reversal relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center.

[0047] According to this structure, when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a reversed state relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center, the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion is restricted by contact with the terminal through the connecting wall. As a result, the operator can easily notice the misassembly of the cover into the cylindrical portion.

[0048] [7] Preferably, each of the terminals has: a first extension extending from the retaining portion toward the interior of the cylindrical portion; a second extension extending from the first extension toward the axial direction; and a third extension extending from the second extension toward the side opposite to the first extension in the extending direction of the first extension, and is provided with the bolt hole. When the connecting wall is set as the first connecting wall, the cover body has a second connecting wall located between the first connecting wall and the second extension, and connecting the partition wall and the opposing wall.

[0049] According to this structure, the partition wall and the opposing wall are connected by a first connecting wall and a second connecting wall. The second connecting wall is located between the first connecting wall and the second extension of the terminal. This avoids interference between the second connecting wall and the terminal and improves the strength of the partition wall and the opposing wall.

[0050] [8] Preferably, the housing has ribs that connect the outer surface of the portion of the retaining portion located between two adjacent terminals and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0051] According to this structure, the retaining part and the cylindrical part are connected by ribs, thus preventing the retaining part from tilting relative to the cylindrical part.

[0052] [9] Preferably, the rib has a recess.

[0053] According to this structure, during the injection molding of the shell, a portion of the mold is positioned in the space forming the recess, and the resin material constituting the shell is filled around this portion. Therefore, by allowing refrigerant to circulate within this portion of the mold, the ribs are cooled. This allows the ribs to solidify earlier than other parts, thus suppressing the tilting of the retaining portion relative to the cylindrical portion. Consequently, a decrease in the dimensional accuracy of the shell can be prevented.

[0054] Furthermore, according to the above structure, because the ribs have recesses, the amount of resin material used in the shell can be reduced, and the shell can be made lighter.

[0055]

[10] Preferably, the device includes an interlocking connector disposed inside the cylindrical portion, which electrically detects whether the housing is connected in the correct position relative to the connected object, and the interlocking connector is disposed parallel to the plurality of terminals in the parallel direction of the plurality of terminals.

[0056] According to this structure, multiple terminals and interlocking connectors are arranged side by side in a parallel direction. Therefore, compared with the case where the terminals and interlocking connectors are arranged side by side in a direction that intersects both the parallel direction and the axial direction, the increase in the size of the housing in the intersecting direction can be suppressed.

[0057]

[11] Preferably, the cover body has a receiving portion that receives one end of the interlocking connector, and the receiving portion is configured such that when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a state of reversal relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center, the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion is restricted by contacting the terminal.

[0058] According to this structure, when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a reversed position relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center, the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion is restricted by contact between the receiving portion and the terminal. As a result, the operator can easily notice any misassembly of the cover into the cylindrical portion.

[0059]

[12] Preferably, the cylindrical portion has a partition wall that separates the interior of the cylindrical portion between the plurality of terminals and the interlocking connector.

[0060] According to this structure, because a partition wall is provided inside the cylindrical portion, the insulation distance between multiple terminals and interlocking connectors can be reduced compared to the case where no partition wall is provided. Therefore, the size of the connector in the parallel direction of multiple terminals can be suppressed.

[0061] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure]

[0062] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 Specific examples of the connectors described herein are illustrated below. In the accompanying drawings, for ease of illustration, portions of the structure are sometimes shown enlarged or simplified. Additionally, the dimensional ratios of the various parts sometimes differ in the drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is intended by the claims to include all variations within the meaning and scope of the claims. The term "orthogonal" in this specification includes not only strictly orthogonal cases, but also cases that are substantially orthogonal to the extent that they achieve the desired effect in this embodiment.

[0063] (Structure of wire harnesses W1 and W2)

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, wiring harnesses W1 and W2 are installed in vehicle V. Wiring harness W1 electrically connects, for example, an electrical device M1 such as a motor located at the front of vehicle V and a battery B located on the floor of vehicle V. Wiring harness W2 electrically connects, for example, an electrical device M2 such as a motor located at the rear of vehicle V and a battery B.

[0065] A connector C1 for connecting to electrical device M1 is provided at one end of wire harness W1. A connector C2 for connecting to electrical device M2 is provided at one end of wire harness W2. The structures of connector C1 and connector C2 can be the same or different from each other. Electrical device M1 is equivalent to the "connection object".

[0066] (Structure of connector C1)

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, connector C1 is assembled to housing 200 with a portion inserted into insertion hole 201 provided in housing 200 of electrical device M1.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, connector C1 includes multiple terminals 10, multiple wires 20, a housing 30, a cover 70, and a shielding shell 120. The multiple terminals 10 are arranged side-by-side. The multiple wires 20 are electrically connected to the multiple terminals 10 respectively. The housing 30 holds the multiple terminals 10 and the multiple wires 20. The cover 70 covers a portion of the housing 30. The shielding shell 120 covers both the cover 70 and a portion of the housing 30.

[0069] Connector C1 may have, for example, two terminals 10 and two wires 20. Alternatively, connector C1 may have three or more terminals 10 and three or more wires 20.

[0070] In each figure, the X-axis extends in the parallel direction of the two terminals 10. The Y-axis extends along the length of the wire 20. The Z-axis extends in the assembly direction of the housing 200 of the electrical device M1 and the connector C1. The X, Y, and Z axes are orthogonal to each other. Hereinafter, the direction along the X-axis will be referred to as the X-axis direction, the direction along the Y-axis will be referred to as the Y-axis direction, and the direction along the Z-axis will be referred to as the Z-axis direction.

[0071] Connector C1 is assembled to housing 200, for example, in an orientation that aligns with both the X-axis and vertical directions. Furthermore, the vertical orientation of the paper in each drawing may not necessarily align with the vertical direction.

[0072] (Structure of terminal 10)

[0073] like Figure 4As shown, terminal 10 has a first extension 11, a second extension 12, and a third extension 13. Terminal 10 is, for example, plate-shaped. Examples of materials used for terminal 10 include ferrous, copper, and aluminum-based metals.

[0074] The first extension 11 extends in the Y-axis direction. The first extension 11 has a wire connection portion 14 that is electrically connected to the wire 20. The wire connection portion 14 is provided at the end of the first extension 11 in the Y-axis direction.

[0075] The second extension 12 extends toward the housing 200 in the Z-axis direction from the end of the first extension 11 on the side opposite to the wire connection 14.

[0076] The third extension 13 extends from the end of the second extension 12 on the side opposite to the first extension 11 toward the side opposite to the first extension 11 in the extending direction of the first extension 11, i.e., in the Y-axis direction. The third extension 13 is located outside the housing 30.

[0077] The third extension 13 is provided with a bolt hole 13a that extends through in the Z-axis direction. The third extension 13 is electrically connected to a counterpart terminal 210 provided inside the housing 200 by a bolt (not shown) inserted into the bolt hole 13a.

[0078] (Structure of wire 20)

[0079] The wire 20 has a core wire 21 and an insulating covering portion 22 that covers the outer periphery of the core wire 21. Examples of materials for the core wire 21 include copper-based or aluminum-based metallic materials. Examples of materials for the insulating covering portion 22 include resin materials whose main component is a polyolefin resin such as cross-linked polyethylene or cross-linked polypropylene.

[0080] The core wire 21 is, for example, a stranded wire formed by twisting together multiple metal wires. The cross-sectional shape of the core wire 21, orthogonal to its length direction, is, for example, circular.

[0081] The core wire 21 is exposed from the insulation sheath 22 at the end of the wire 20. The core wire 21 exposed from the insulation sheath 22 is electrically connected to the wire connection portion 14 of the terminal 10 by, for example, crimping.

[0082] (Structure of housing 30)

[0083] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the housing 30 has a cylindrical portion 31 and a retaining portion 43. Examples of materials that can be used for the housing 30 include resin materials such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0084] (Structure of cylindrical part 31)

[0085] The cylindrical portion 31 has an opening 32 exposing two terminals 10. The opening 32 extends through the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction. The axial direction of the cylindrical portion 31 is aligned with the Z-axis direction. The opening edge of the cylindrical portion 31 is formed into an elongated oval shape in the X-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0086] An interlocking connector IC is disposed inside the cylindrical portion 31. The interlocking connector IC is arranged side by side with the two terminals 10 in the X-axis direction.

[0087] The interlocking connector IC electrically detects whether the housing 30 is properly connected to the insertion hole 201 of the outer casing 200. When the housing 30 is properly connected to the outer casing 200, the interlocking connector IC engages with a waiting connector (not shown) located inside the outer casing 200. The interlocking connector IC and the waiting connector constitute an interlocking circuit. When the interlocking connector IC engages with the waiting connector, i.e., when the interlocking circuit is closed, the connector C1 and the electrical device M1 become energized.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the cylindrical portion 31 has a first end portion 31a and a second end portion 31b located opposite each other in the Z-axis direction. The first end portion 31a is a portion of the cylindrical portion 31 that is fitted with the cover 70 on one side. The second end portion 31b is a portion of the cylindrical portion 31 that is inserted into the insertion hole 201 of the housing 200.

[0089] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the cylindrical portion 31 has a first partition wall 33 and a second partition wall 34. The first partition wall 33 is equivalent to a "partition wall".

[0090] The first partition wall 33 divides the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 between the two terminals 10 and the interlocking connector IC. The first partition wall 33 extends in the Z-axis direction. The first partition wall 33 connects the portions of the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 31 that are opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 is divided by the first partition wall 33 into the portion where the two terminals 10 are located and the portion where the interlocking connector IC is located.

[0091] The second partition wall 34 divides the portion of the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 where the interlocking connector IC is located in the Z-axis direction. The second partition wall 34 connects the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 31 and the first partition wall 33.

[0092] An insertion hole 34a extending through the Z-axis is provided in the second partition wall 34. An interlocking connector IC is inserted into the insertion hole 34a.

[0093] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, an insertion part 35 is provided in the cylindrical portion 31, and the insertion part 35 is inserted into the insertion hole 201 of the housing 200. The insertion part 35 is the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 that includes the second end portion 31b.

[0094] A first receiving groove 36 is provided all around the outer periphery of the insertion part 35. An annular first sealing member 50 is received in the first receiving groove 36. The axial direction of the first sealing member 50 is consistent with the Z-axis direction.

[0095] From now on, the circumferential direction of the first sealing member 50 will be referred to only as the circumferential direction.

[0096] The first storage slot 36 has a slot body 37 and two engaging parts 38A and 38B.

[0097] The groove body 37 is formed in a ring shape that extends throughout the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0098] Two engaging portions 38A and 38B are provided circumferentially spaced apart. The two engaging portions 38A and 38B are located on opposite sides of each other across the central axis of the first sealing member 50. The two engaging portions 38A and 38B are respectively provided at one end and the other end of the groove body 37 in the X-axis direction.

[0099] Each engaging portion 38A, 38B includes a first engaging groove 39 and a second engaging groove 40. The first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 extend from the groove body 37 in opposite directions along the Z-axis. The first engaging groove 39 extends from the groove body 37 toward the position of the first end 31a in the Z-axis direction. The second engaging groove 40 extends from the groove body 37 toward the position of the second end 31b in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 have the same shape.

[0100] The first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 extends circumferentially beyond the second engaging groove 40. The second engaging groove 40 extends circumferentially beyond the first engaging groove 39.

[0101] In this embodiment, "one side of the circumference" is the counterclockwise direction when viewing the second end 31b from the first end 31a of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction, and "the other side of the circumference" is the clockwise direction.

[0102] The first engaging groove 39 of the engaging portion 38A and the second engaging groove 40 of the engaging portion 38B are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 of the engaging portion 38B and the second engaging groove 40 of the engaging portion 38A are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction.

[0103] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the cylindrical portion 31 has two fixing portions 41 protruding towards its outer periphery. The two fixing portions 41 protrude towards each other in opposite directions in the XY plane, intersecting both the X-axis and Y-axis directions. Each fixing portion 41 is provided with a cylindrical metal collar 42. Each collar 42 passes through in the Z-axis direction.

[0104] (Structure of retaining part 43)

[0105] like Figure 4 As shown, the retaining portion 43 protrudes from the first end 31a of the cylindrical portion 31 toward the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 31, more specifically in the Y-axis direction. The retaining portion 43 retains two terminals 10 and two wires 20. The ends of the wires 20, the wire connecting portions 14, and a portion of the first extension portion 11 are embedded in the retaining portion 43. The two terminals 10, the two wires 20, and the housing 30 are integrally formed by insert molding. Each wire 20 extends out of the retaining portion 43 in the Y-axis direction.

[0106] A second receiving groove 44 is provided all around the outer periphery of the retaining part 43. An annular second sealing member 60 is received in the second receiving groove 44.

[0107] (Structure of Rib 45)

[0108] like Figure 6 As shown, the housing 30 has a rib 45, which connects the outer surface of the retaining portion 43 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31. The rib 45 is located at the position of the second end 31b when viewed from the retaining portion 43.

[0109] like Figure 10 As shown, rib 45 protrudes from the outer surface of the portion of the retaining portion 43 located between two adjacent terminals 10. That is, rib 45 is located between the two terminals 10 in the X-axis direction. Rib 45 is provided at a position offset to one side in the X-axis direction from the middle portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31 in the X-axis direction.

[0110] like Figure 11 As shown, the rib 45 is positioned in the Y-axis direction at a position overlapping the two wire connection portions 14. Therefore, the rib 45 protrudes from the outer surface of the portion of the retaining portion 43 located between two adjacent wire connection portions 14.

[0111] Rib 45 has a recess 46. Recess 46 is recessed in the Z-axis direction from the second end 31b toward the first end 31a. The cross-sectional shape of recess 46, orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, is, for example, formed as a rectangle elongated in the Y-axis direction. This cross-sectional shape is uniformly consistent throughout the Z-axis direction of recess 46. That is, the inner wall of rib 45 forming recess 46 extends along the entire circumference of recess 46 in the Z-axis direction. Figure 11As shown by the double-dotted line, the recess 46 is configured to be inserted into the mold M used for injection molding of the housing 30.

[0112] The amount of protrusion of the rib 45 from the outer surface of the retaining part 43 is smaller in the Y-axis direction as it moves further away from the cylindrical part 31.

[0113] (Structure of the first sealing member 50)

[0114] like Figure 12 As shown, the first sealing member 50 has a sealing body 51 and two engaging portions 52A and 52B.

[0115] The sealing body 51 is formed in an annular shape that extends along the X-axis. A lip protruding outwards is provided along the entire circumference of the sealing body 51. The sealing body 51 is housed in the groove body 37 of the first receiving groove 36.

[0116] Two engaging portions 52A and 52B are provided circumferentially spaced apart. The two engaging portions 52A and 52B are located on opposite sides of each other across the central axis of the first sealing member 50. The two engaging portions 52A and 52B are respectively provided at one end and the other end of the sealing body 51 in the X-axis direction.

[0117] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, each engaging portion 52A, 52B includes a first engaging protrusion 53 and a second engaging protrusion 54. The first engaging protrusion 53 and the second engaging protrusion 54 protrude from the sealing body 51 toward opposite sides in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging protrusion 53 extends from the sealing body 51 toward the position of the first end 31a in the Z-axis direction. The second engaging protrusion 54 extends from the sealing body 51 toward the position of the second end 31b in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging protrusion 53 and the second engaging protrusion 54 have the same shape.

[0118] The first engaging protrusion 53 and the second engaging protrusion 54 are positioned in an overlapping manner along the Z-axis. The first engaging protrusion 53 protrudes more circumferentially than the second engaging protrusion 54. The second engaging protrusion 54 protrudes more circumferentially than the first engaging protrusion 53. The first engaging protrusion 53 and the second engaging protrusion 54 engage with the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40, respectively.

[0119] The first engaging protrusion 53 of engaging portion 52A and the second engaging protrusion 54 of engaging portion 52B are positioned at the same location in the Y-axis direction. The first engaging protrusion 53 of engaging portion 52B and the second engaging protrusion 54 of engaging portion 52A are positioned at the same location in the Y-axis direction.

[0120] Based on the above, the first sealing member 50 is formed with a double symmetry shape with the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis as its respective axes of symmetry. That is, when the first sealing member 50 is reversed with the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis as its respective central axes, the shapes of the first sealing member 50 before and after the reversal overlap.

[0121] The insertion part 35 is housed in the first receiving groove 36 by the first sealing member 50, thereby preventing water from entering between the insertion part 35 and the insertion hole 201 of the outer casing 200. Furthermore, since the insertion part 35 is located outside the shielding shell 120, the first sealing member 50 is also located outside the shielding shell 120.

[0122] (The structure of the cover 70)

[0123] like Figure 7 As shown, the cover 70 covers the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31 by being inserted from the first end 31a into the cylindrical portion 31.

[0124] like Figure 13 As shown, the cover 70 has a cover body 80 and a venting membrane 100. Examples of materials that can be used for the cover body 80 include resin materials such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Examples of materials that can be used for the venting membrane 100 include porous resin materials.

[0125] The cover body 80 has a cover portion 81 that covers the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31. The cover portion 81 is formed into an elongated oval shape in the X-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0126] A third receiving groove 82 is provided around the entire outer periphery of the cover portion 81. A third annular sealing member 110 is received in the third receiving groove 82.

[0127] The cover portion 81 has a vent 81a extending through the cover portion 81 in the Z-axis direction. The vent 81a is located at a position offset from the middle portion of the cover portion 81 in the X-axis direction.

[0128] A venting membrane 100 covers the vent hole 81a from the side opposite to the two terminals 10 in the Z-axis direction (see reference). Figure 7 The vent membrane 100 is circular when viewed from the Z-axis. The diameter of the vent membrane 100 is larger than the diameter of the vent hole 81a. The vent membrane 100 is fixed, for example, by welding it to the cover portion 81.

[0129] The venting membrane 100 is configured to allow gases such as air to pass through while preventing liquids such as water from passing through. The venting membrane 100 can alleviate the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cylindrical section 31.

[0130] A partition 81b is provided in the vent 81a to divide the vent 81a into an X-shape. The partition 81b of the vent 81a can prevent the operator's fingers from coming into contact with the ventilation membrane 100 through the vent 81a.

[0131] like Figure 7 As shown, a gap is provided in the Z-axis direction between the venting membrane 100 and the partition 81b. This gap prevents the venting membrane 100 from being easily sealed by the partition 81b, thus minimizing obstruction of gas passage within the venting membrane 100.

[0132] like Figure 3 and Figure 13 As shown, the cover portion 81 has a boss 83 protruding in the Z-axis direction opposite to the two terminals 10. The boss 83 protrudes from the middle portion of both the X-axis and Y-axis directions of the cover portion 81. The boss 83 is formed into a cylindrical shape with one end closed. A fastening hole is provided in the boss 83, and a tap screw 170 with a washer is fastened in the fastening hole. The fastening hole is open in the Z-axis direction on the side opposite to the two terminals 10.

[0133] The cover portion 81 has a first support protrusion 84 and a second support protrusion 85. Each support protrusion 84, 85 protrudes in the Z-axis direction to the side opposite to the two terminals 10. The first support protrusion 84 and the second support protrusion 85 are located on opposite sides of each other in the XY plane in a direction intersecting both the X-axis and Y-axis directions, separated by a boss 83. The first support protrusion 84 is located on the side where the retaining portion 43 is located when viewed from the boss 83 in the Y-axis direction.

[0134] Each support protrusion 84 and 85 is cylindrical. The diameter of the first support protrusion 84 is smaller than the diameter of the second support protrusion 85.

[0135] like Figure 13 As shown, the cover 81 has an inner wall 86 and an outer wall 89 protruding in the Z-axis direction, respectively. The inner wall 86 surrounds the outer periphery of the venting membrane 100. The outer wall 89 is located on the outer periphery side of the inner wall 86 and forms the outer periphery of the cover body 80. That is, the outer wall 89 includes the outer periphery of the cover body 80.

[0136] The end faces of the inner wall 86 and the outer wall 89 in the Z-axis direction are flush with each other. In addition, the aforementioned boss 83, the first support protrusion 84 and the second support protrusion 85 protrude beyond the end faces of the inner wall 86 and the outer wall 89 in the Z-axis direction.

[0137] The outer periphery of the outer wall 89 is located on the outer periphery side of the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31. The outer wall 89 covers the end face of the first end portion 31a of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0138] The inner wall 86 has an inner outlet 88 that connects the inside and outside of the inner wall 86 in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis. The outer wall 89 has an outer outlet 90 that connects the inside and outside of the outer wall 89 in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis. The inner outlet 88 and the outer outlet 90 point in opposite directions. The inner outlet 88 is entirely opposed to the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall 89. The outer outlet 90 is entirely opposed to the outer circumferential surface of the inner wall 86.

[0139] From now on, the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the inner outlet 88 will be called the first imaginary axis L1, and the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the outer outlet 90 will be called the second imaginary axis L2. In addition, the intersection of the first imaginary axis L1 and the second imaginary axis L2 will be called the intersection point P.

[0140] like Figure 14 As shown, the second imaginary axis L2 extends in the X-axis direction. The first imaginary axis L1 extends obliquely relative to the second imaginary axis L2 in the XY plane. The angle α formed by the first imaginary axis L1 and the second imaginary axis L2 is an acute angle.

[0141] The inner outlet 88 is positioned along the axial direction of the second imaginary axis L2, i.e., the X-axis, at a location further outward than the intersection point P of the outlet 90. In other words, the inner outlet 88 is located further outward than the intersection point P of the third imaginary axis L3, which extends along the Y-axis and passes through the intersection point P.

[0142] Preferably, when the outer outlet 90 points towards the 6 o'clock position on the clock, the inner outlet 88 points, for example, towards the area between the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions clockwise. However, this does not apply if the inner outlet 88 is not aligned with the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall 89.

[0143] The inner wall 86 has a first end edge 86a and a second end edge 86b forming an inner outlet 88. The first end edge 86a is located near the outlet 90, which is further outward than the second end edge 86b.

[0144] The inner wall 86 is provided with a first extension 87a extending from a first end edge 86a and a second extension 87b extending from a second end edge 86b. The first extension 87a and the second extension 87b are opposite to each other. The first extension 87a is equivalent to an "extension".

[0145] The portion of the inner wall 86, excluding the first extension 87a and the second extension 87b, is formed, for example, in an arc shape along the outer periphery of the vent membrane 100. The first extension 87a and the second extension 87b extend, for example, in a straight line. The first extension 87a and the second extension 87b extend closer to each other as they move toward the inner outlet 88.

[0146] The first extension 87a extends obliquely relative to the second imaginary axis L2 in a manner that is closer to the outer outlet 90 in the axial direction of the second imaginary axis L2, i.e., in the X-axis direction, toward the first end edge 86a.

[0147] like Figure 15 As shown, the cover 70 has a partition wall 91, an opposing wall 92, a first connecting wall 93, and a second connecting wall 94 that protrude from the cover portion 81 toward the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction.

[0148] The partition 91 is located between two adjacent terminals 10. The partition 91 extends substantially the entirety of the cover portion 81 in the Y-axis direction. The portions of the two terminals 10 located inside the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31 are located opposite each other with respect to the partition 91. The partition 91 protrudes beyond the two terminals 10 in the Z-axis direction.

[0149] Opposing wall 92 is located on the opposite side of partition wall 91, separated by a terminal 10. Opposing wall 92 is opposite partition wall 91 in the X-axis direction. Opposing wall 92 extends substantially throughout the cover portion 81 in the Y-axis direction. The amount of protrusion of opposing wall 92 from cover portion 81 is less than the amount of protrusion of partition wall 91 from cover portion 81.

[0150] like Figure 4 and Figure 15 As shown, the first connecting wall 93 is located on the side opposite to the retaining portion 43, separated from the aforementioned terminal 10. The first connecting wall 93 connects the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92. The amount of protrusion of the first connecting wall 93 from the cover portion 81 is the same as the amount of protrusion of the opposing wall 92 from the cover portion 81.

[0151] like Figure 4 and Figure 16 As shown, the second connecting wall 94 is located between the first connecting wall 93 and the second extension 12 of the aforementioned terminal 10. The second connecting wall 94 connects the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92. The amount by which the second connecting wall 94 protrudes from the cover portion 81 is less than the amount by which the first connecting wall 93 protrudes from the cover portion 81. A gap is provided throughout the second connecting wall 94 between the second connecting wall 94 and the terminal 10.

[0152] Here, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a reversed position relative to its normal orientation with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 as the center, the first connecting wall 93 is configured to restrict the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31 by contacting the first extension 11 of the terminal 10. In this embodiment, the protrusion of the first connecting wall 93 from the cover portion 81 is greater than the distance from the cover portion 81 to the first extension 11 in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in the aforementioned reversed state, the first connecting wall 93 contacts the first extension 11.

[0153] like Figure 7 and Figure 15 As shown, the cover 70 has a receiving portion 95 that protrudes from the cover portion 81 into the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 and receives one end of the interlocking connector IC. The receiving portion 95 is formed into a cylindrical shape with one end closed.

[0154] The amount of the storage portion 95 protruding from the cover portion 81 is less than the amount of the partition wall 91, the opposing wall 92, the first connecting wall 93 and the second connecting wall 94 protruding from the cover portion 81, and is greater than the distance from the cover portion 81 to the first extension portion 11 of the terminal 10 in the Z-axis direction.

[0155] Here, when the cover 70 does not have the first connecting wall 93, and the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a reversed state relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 as the center, the storage portion 95 is provided at a position that can contact the first extension portion 11 of the terminal 10. That is, when the cover 70 does not have the first connecting wall 93, the storage portion 95 is configured to restrict the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31 by contacting the terminal 10.

[0156] A short pin (not shown) is provided inside the housing 95. The interlocking connector IC is housed in the housing 95, and two terminals (not shown) located inside the interlocking connector IC are electrically connected via the short pin. This enables the circuitry inside the interlocking connector IC to conduct.

[0157] (Structure of shielding shell 120)

[0158] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the shielding shell 120 has a first shell 130, a second shell 140, and a third shell 150. Examples of materials for each shell 130, 140, and 150 include ferrous or aluminum-based metals.

[0159] (Structure of Shell 130)

[0160] like Figure 3 As shown, the first housing 130 has a first portion 131 and a second portion 135. The first portion 131 covers the outer periphery of the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite to the insertion portion 35. The second portion 135 covers the outer periphery of a portion of the retaining portion 43. The first portion 131 and the second portion 135 open toward the housing 200 in the Z-axis direction.

[0161] Part 131 has an opening 132 into which a cylindrical portion 31 is inserted. Viewed from the Z-axis direction, the opening 132 is formed in an elongated oval shape that is longer in the X-axis direction.

[0162] like Figure 17As shown, part 131 covers the outer outlet 90 of the outer wall 89 from the outer periphery of the cover body 80.

[0163] like Figure 3 As shown, the first part 131 has two fixed protrusions 133 protruding to the outer periphery of the opening 132. Each fixed protrusion 133 is provided with a threaded hole 133a passing through in the Z-axis direction.

[0164] Part 131 has two fixing portions 134 protruding towards the outer periphery of the opening 132. The two fixing portions 134 are positioned corresponding to the two fixing portions 41 of the housing 30. Each fixing portion 134 has a through hole 134a extending in the Z-axis direction. The through hole 134a communicates with a collar 42 provided in the fixing portion 41. Figure 2 As shown, the connector C1 is fixed to the housing 200 by bolts (not shown) inserted into the fixing part 134 and the fixing part 41 and fastened to the threaded hole 202 provided in the housing 200.

[0165] like Figure 3 As shown, the second part 135 has a protrusion 136 that protrudes in the Z-axis direction to the side opposite to the retaining part 43. A threaded hole 136a that passes through in the Y-axis direction is provided in the protrusion 136.

[0166] (Structure of the second shell 140)

[0167] The second shell 140 is cylindrical. The second shell 140 covers the outer periphery of the portion of the retaining part 43 that is not covered by the second part 135.

[0168] The second housing 140 has a protrusion 141 that protrudes in the Z-axis direction to the side opposite to the retaining portion 43. A through hole 141a that extends through in the Y-axis direction is provided in the protrusion 141. The second housing 140 is fixed to the first housing 130 by fastening it to the threaded hole 136a of the first housing 130 by inserting a bolt 160 into the through hole 141a.

[0169] Although the illustration is omitted, a metal braided component that covers the two wires 20 together is fitted on the outer peripheral surface of the second shell 140 via a tightening ring.

[0170] (Structure of the third shell 150)

[0171] The third shell 150 is formed as a flat plate extending in the XY plane. The third shell 150 covers the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31 and the opening 132 of the first shell 130. Thus, the cover 70 is covered by the third shell 150 from the side opposite to the outer shell 200 in the Z-axis direction.

[0172] like Figure 7As shown, the third shell 150 is in contact with the end faces of the inner wall 86 and outer wall 89 of the cover body 80 in the Z-axis direction.

[0173] like Figure 3 As shown, the third housing 150 has two through holes 151 that communicate with the two threaded holes 133a of the first housing 130, respectively. The third housing 150 is fixed to the first housing 130 by bolts (not shown) inserted into each through hole 151.

[0174] The third housing 150 has a boss 83 of the cover 70 inserted into a boss insertion hole 152. The diameter of the boss insertion hole 152 is larger than the diameter of the boss 83. The diameter of the boss insertion hole 152 is smaller than the diameter of the washer of the aforementioned tap screw 170. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, a gap is provided between the washer and the third housing 150 in the Z-axis direction.

[0175] like Figure 3 As shown, the third housing 150 has a first insertion hole 153 and a second insertion hole 154 into which the first support protrusion 84 and the second support protrusion 85 are respectively inserted. The diameter of the first insertion hole 153 is larger than the diameter of the first support protrusion 84. The diameter of the second insertion hole 154 is larger than the diameter of the second support protrusion 85.

[0176] Based on the above, gaps are provided between the boss 83 and the boss insertion hole 152, between the first support protrusion 84 and the first insertion hole 153, and between the second support protrusion 85 and the second insertion hole 154. The third shell 150 is configured such that it can rock relative to the cover 70 in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis within these gaps. This allows the operator to easily align the through hole 151 and the threaded hole 133a.

[0177] The function and effects of this implementation method are explained.

[0178] (1) The cover 70 comprises: a cover body 80 having a vent 81a; and a vent membrane 100 covering the vent 81a. The cover body 80 comprises: an inner wall 86 surrounding the outer periphery of the vent membrane 100; and an outer wall 89 located on the outer periphery of the inner wall 86 and including the outer periphery of the cover body 80. The inner wall 86 has an inner outlet 88 communicating with the inside and outside of the inner wall 86 in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis. The outer wall 89 has an outer outlet 90 communicating with the inside and outside of the outer wall 89 in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis. The inner outlet 88 faces the inner periphery of the outer wall 89. The outer outlet 90 faces the outer periphery of the inner wall 86.

[0179] With this structure, for example, when a liquid such as water seeps into the inner circumference of the inner wall 86 through the gap between the third shell 150 and the cover 70, the liquid can easily drain out through the inner outlet 88 to the outer circumference of the inner wall 86. Similarly, when a liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the outer wall 89, the liquid can easily drain out through the outer outlet 90 to the outer circumference of the outer wall 89. Here, the inner outlet 88 faces the inner circumference of the outer wall 89, and the outer outlet 90 faces the outer circumference of the inner wall 86. Therefore, for example, when a liquid seeps into the inner circumference of the outer wall 89 through the outer outlet 90, the liquid does not easily reach the inner outlet 88 directly. Thus, liquid does not easily seep into the inner circumference of the inner wall 86. Based on the above, liquid retention in the venting membrane 100 can be suppressed.

[0180] (2) The inner outlet 88 is located on the side of the outer outlet 90, which is closer to the intersection point P of the first imaginary axis L1 and the second imaginary axis L2.

[0181] Based on such a structure, such as Figure 18 As shown, in connector C1, where the outer outlet 90 is positioned with its opening facing downwards in a vertical direction, the inner outlet 88 opens downwards at an angle. Thus, as... Figure 18 As indicated by the middle arrow, liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall 86 is easily discharged through the inner outlet 88 to the outer circumference of the inner wall 86 due to its own weight. At this time, the outer outlet 90 opens downwards, so liquid discharged from the inner outlet 88 is easily discharged through the outer outlet 90 to the outer circumference of the outer wall 89 due to its own weight. Therefore, the effect of inhibiting liquid retention in the ventilated membrane 100 is more significant.

[0182] (3) The first extension 87a extends obliquely relative to the second imaginary axis L2 in a manner that is closer to the outer outlet 90 in the axial direction of the second imaginary axis L2 than the first end edge 86a.

[0183] According to this structure, in the connector C1, where the outer outlet 90 is arranged to open downwards in a vertical direction as in this embodiment, the first extension 87a extends obliquely downwards. As a result, liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall 86 reaches the first extension 87a by its own weight and flows obliquely downwards along the first extension 87a. Consequently, the liquid immersed in the inner circumference of the inner wall 86 is easily discharged to the outer circumference of the inner wall 86 through the inner outlet 88. Therefore, the effect of suppressing liquid retention in the venting membrane 100 is further enhanced.

[0184] (4) The first shell 130 of the shielding shell 120 covers the outer outlet 90 from the outer periphery of the outer wall 89.

[0185] With this structure, the outer outlet 90 is covered by the first shell 130 from the outer periphery of the outer wall 89. Therefore, liquid cannot easily seep in from the outer periphery of the outer wall 89 to the inner periphery through the outer outlet 90. This effectively prevents liquid from reaching the venting membrane 100.

[0186] (5) The cover body 80 has a partition 91 located between two adjacent terminals 10.

[0187] With this structure, since the partition 91 is located between two adjacent terminals 10, proper insulation between the two terminals 10 can be achieved. Furthermore, compared to using a cover body 80 without the partition 91, the insulation distance between the two terminals 10 can be reduced. Therefore, the increase in the size of the connector C1 in the parallel direction of the two terminals 10, i.e., the X-axis direction, can be suppressed.

[0188] (6) The cover body 80 has a counter wall 92 opposite to the partition wall 91, and a first connecting wall 93 connecting the partition wall 91 and the counter wall 92. The first connecting wall 93 is configured such that when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a reversed state relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 as the center, it restricts the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31 by contacting the terminal 10.

[0189] With this structure, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a reversed position relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 as the center, it contacts the terminal 10 through the first connecting wall 93, thereby restricting the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31. As a result, the operator can easily notice any misassembly of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31.

[0190] (7) The cover body 80 has a second connecting wall 94, which is located between the first connecting wall 93 and the second extension 12 of the terminal 10, and connects the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92.

[0191] With this structure, the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92 are connected by a first connecting wall 93 and a second connecting wall 94. The second connecting wall 94 is located between the first connecting wall 93 and the second extension 12 of the terminal 10. This avoids interference between the second connecting wall 94 and the terminal 10 and improves the strength of the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92.

[0192] (8) The housing 30 has ribs 45, the outer surface of the portion of the retaining portion 43 located between two adjacent terminals 10 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0193] With this structure, since the retaining part 43 and the cylindrical part 31 are connected by the rib 45, the tilting of the retaining part 43 relative to the cylindrical part 31 can be suppressed.

[0194] (9) Rib 45 has a recess 46.

[0195] With this structure, during injection molding of the housing 30, a portion of the mold M is positioned in the space forming the recess 46, and the resin material constituting the housing 30 is filled around this portion. Therefore, for example, by allowing refrigerant to flow into the interior of the aforementioned portion of the mold M, the rib 45 is cooled. This allows the rib 45 to solidify earlier than other portions, thus suppressing the tilting of the retaining portion 43 relative to the cylindrical portion 31. Therefore, it suppresses any reduction in the dimensional accuracy of the housing 30.

[0196] (10) The interlocking connector IC is arranged side by side with the two terminals 10 in the X-axis direction.

[0197] With this structure, compared to the case where the terminals 10 and the interlocking connector IC are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the parallel direction of the two terminals 10, the increase in the size of the housing 30 in the Y-axis direction can be suppressed.

[0198] (11) The cylindrical portion 31 has a first partition wall 33 between the two terminals 10 and the interlocking connector IC, which separates the interior of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0199] With this structure, because a first partition wall 33 is provided inside the cylindrical portion 31, the insulation distance between the two terminals 10 and the interlocking connector IC can be reduced compared to the case where the first partition wall 33 is not provided. Therefore, the increase in the size of the connector C1 in the X-axis direction can be suppressed.

[0200] <Variation Example>

[0201] This embodiment can be implemented in the following variations. This embodiment and the following variations can be combined with each other within the scope of technical non-contradiction.

[0202] • The first partition wall 33 can also be omitted from the cylindrical part 31.

[0203] • The storage section 95 can also be omitted from the main body 80.

[0204] • The interlocking connector IC can also be arranged side by side with terminal 10 in the Y-axis direction.

[0205] • The interlocking connector IC can also be omitted from connector C1.

[0206] The cross-sectional shape of the rib 45, which is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction of the recess 46, can be, for example, a circle or a polygon.

[0207] The recess 46 can also be recessed in any direction, such as the X-axis or Y-axis, depending on the pulling direction of the mold M.

[0208] Rib 45 may also have multiple recesses 46.

[0209] • The recess 46 can also be omitted from rib 45.

[0210] Rib 45 can also be viewed from the retaining part 43 and is located at the position of the first end 31a.

[0211] • The housing 30 may also have multiple ribs 45.

[0212] • Rib 45 can also be omitted from shell 30.

[0213] • At least one of the partition wall 91, opposing wall 92, first connecting wall 93, and second connecting wall 94 may be omitted from the cover body 80. When the first connecting wall 93 is omitted from the cover body 80, it is preferable that the cover body 80 has a receiving portion 95. With this structure, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a reversed position relative to its normal orientation with the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 as the center, the receiving portion 95 contacts the first extension 11 of the terminal 10. This restricts the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31. Therefore, it is easier for the operator to notice any misassembly of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31.

[0214] • The first shell 130 of the shielding shell 120 may not cover the outer outlet 90 from the outer periphery of the outer wall 89. The first shell 130 may also have an opening opposite to the outer outlet 90.

[0215] • The shield 120 can also be omitted from connector C1.

[0216] • Alternatively, the first extension 87a and the second extension 87b can be omitted from the inner wall 86. In this case, the inner wall 86 is generally arc-shaped.

[0217] • The orientation of connector C1 is not limited to the orientation of this embodiment. For example, connector C1 may also be used with the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 31, i.e., the Z-axis direction and the vertical direction, aligned.

[0218] • If the inner outlet 88 faces the inner circumference of the outer wall 89, and the outer outlet 90 faces the outer circumference of the inner wall 86, then the inner outlet 88 and the outer outlet 90 can point in any direction. In this case, the angle α formed by the first imaginary axis L1 and the second imaginary axis L2 can be any angle, such as 90° or more.

[0219] Alternatively, a portion of the inner outlet 88 may face the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall 89, and a portion of the outer outlet 90 may face the outer circumferential surface of the inner wall 86.

[0220] The inner wall 86 may also have multiple inner outlets 88.

[0221] The outer wall 89 may also have multiple outer outlets 90.

[0222] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0223] α angle

[0224] B battery

[0225] C1 and C2 connectors

[0226] IC interlock connector

[0227] L1 First Imaginary Axis

[0228] L2 Second Imaginary Axis

[0229] L3 Third Imaginary Axis

[0230] M mold

[0231] M1 Electrical equipment (connection object)

[0232] M2 Electrical Equipment

[0233] P intersection point

[0234] V vehicle

[0235] W1 and W2 wiring harnesses

[0236] 10 terminals

[0237] 11. Extension 1

[0238] 12 Second Extension

[0239] 13 Third Extension

[0240] 13a Bolt hole

[0241] 14. Wire connection part

[0242] 20 wires

[0243] 21-core wire

[0244] 22 Insulation Covering Part

[0245] 30. Housing

[0246] 31 cylindrical part

[0247] 31a First end

[0248] 31b Second end

[0249] 32 Opening

[0250] 33. First partition wall (partition wall)

[0251] 34 Second partition wall

[0252] 34a Insertion Hole

[0253] 35 Insertion section

[0254] 36 Storage Slot 1

[0255] 37. Main body of the channel

[0256] 38A and 38B are stuck together.

[0257] 39 First card slot

[0258] 40 Second card slot

[0259] 41 Fixing part

[0260] 42 rings

[0261] 43. Maintenance section

[0262] 44 Second storage compartment

[0263] 45 ribs

[0264] 46 recess

[0265] 50 First sealing component

[0266] 51 Sealing Body

[0267] 52A and 52B locking parts

[0268] 53 First card protrusion

[0269] 54 Second card protrusion

[0270] 60 Second sealing component

[0271] 70 caps

[0272] 80 Cover body

[0273] 81 cover

[0274] 81a Vent

[0275] 81b Separator

[0276] 82 Third storage compartment

[0277] 83 convex platform

[0278] 84 First Support Protrusion

[0279] 85 Second Support Protrusion

[0280] 86 Inner Wall

[0281] 86a First edge

[0282] 86b Second edge

[0283] 87a First Extension (Extension)

[0284] 87b Second Extension

[0285] 88 Inner exhaust outlet

[0286] 89 outer wall

[0287] 90 Outer outlet

[0288] 91 Next door

[0289] 92 Opposite Walls

[0290] 93 First Connecting Wall

[0291] 94 Second Connecting Wall

[0292] 95 Storage Department

[0293] 100 ventilation membrane

[0294] 110 Third sealing component

[0295] 120 Shielding Shell

[0296] 130 First Shell

[0297] 131 Part 1

[0298] 132 Opening

[0299] 133 Fixed protrusion

[0300] 133a Threaded hole

[0301] 134 Fixing part

[0302] 134a Through Hole

[0303] 135 Part 2

[0304] 136 Protrusion

[0305] 136a threaded hole

[0306] 140 Second Shell

[0307] 141 Protrusion

[0308] 141a Through hole

[0309] 150 Third Shell

[0310] 151 Through hole

[0311] 152 Boss Insertion Hole

[0312] 153 First insertion hole

[0313] 154 Second Insertion Hole

[0314] 160 bolts

[0315] 170 tap screw

[0316] 200 casing

[0317] 201 Insertion Hole

[0318] 202 Threaded Hole

[0319] 210 Counterparty Terminal

Claims

1. A connector comprising: Multiple terminals arranged side by side; Multiple wires are connected to the multiple terminals respectively; A resin housing includes a cylindrical portion and a retaining portion, the cylindrical portion having an opening exposing the ends of the plurality of terminals, and the retaining portion protruding from the cylindrical portion toward the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion and retaining the plurality of terminals and the plurality of wires; as well as The cap is inserted into the cylindrical portion to cover the opening. Each of the terminals has a bolt hole at its end, which extends through the axial direction of the cylindrical portion and into which a bolt is inserted. The cover has: The resin-made cap body has a vent hole extending through the axial direction, covering the opening; and A venting membrane covers the vent holes from the side opposite to the plurality of terminals in the axial direction, allowing gas to pass through while preventing liquid from passing through. The cover body has: an inner wall surrounding the outer periphery of the ventilated membrane; and an outer wall located on the outer periphery side of the inner wall, and including the outer periphery of the cover body. The inner wall has an inner outlet that connects the inside and outside of the inner wall in a direction orthogonal to the axis direction. The outer wall has an outer outlet that connects the inside and outside of the outer wall in a direction orthogonal to the axis direction. The inner outlet faces the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall, and the outer outlet faces the outer circumferential surface of the inner wall.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, When the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the inner outlet is designated as the first imaginary axis, and the imaginary axis extending in the communication direction of the outer outlet is designated as the second imaginary axis, The inner outlet is positioned along the axial direction of the second imaginary axis closer to the location of the outer outlet than the intersection of the first and second imaginary axes.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein, The inner wall has a first end edge and a second end edge forming the inner outlet. The first end edge is located near the outer outlet, which is closer to the second end edge. An extension portion extending from the first end edge is provided on the inner wall. The extension extends obliquely relative to the second imaginary axis in such a way that it is closer to the outer outlet in the axial direction of the second imaginary axis as it moves toward the first end edge.

4. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It has a metal shielding shell that covers the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion. The shielding shell covers the outer outlet from the outer periphery of the outer wall.

5. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4 The cover body has a partition wall located between two adjacent terminals.

6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein, The cover body has: The opposing wall, separated by one of the terminals, is located on the opposite side of the partition wall and is opposite to the partition wall; and A connecting wall, located on the opposite side of the retaining portion across the terminal, connects the partition wall and the opposing wall. The connecting wall is configured such that, when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a state of reversal relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center, the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion is restricted by contacting the terminal.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, Each terminal has: a first extension extending from the retaining portion toward the interior of the cylindrical portion; and a second extension extending from the first extension toward the axial direction. And a third extension, extending from the second extension toward the side opposite to the first extension in the extending direction of the first extension, and provided with the bolt hole. When the connecting wall is designated as the first connecting wall... The cover body has a second connecting wall located between the first connecting wall and the second extension, and connecting the partition wall and the opposing wall.

8. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The housing has ribs that connect the outer surface of the portion of the retaining part located between two adjacent terminals and the outer surface of the cylindrical part.

9. The connector according to claim 8, wherein, The rib has a recess.

10. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The device includes an interlocking connector located inside the cylindrical portion, which electrically detects whether the housing is properly connected relative to the connected object. The interlocking connector is arranged side-by-side with the plurality of terminals in the parallel direction of the plurality of terminals.

11. The connector according to claim 10, wherein, The cover body has a storage section that houses one end of the interlocking connector. The storage section is configured such that, when the cover is inserted into the cylindrical portion in a state of reversal relative to the normal posture with the central axis of the cylindrical portion as the center, the insertion of the cover into the cylindrical portion is restricted by contacting the terminal.

12. The connector according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein, The cylindrical portion has a partition wall that separates the interior of the cylindrical portion between the plurality of terminals and the interlocking connector.

Images