Terminal block and method for manufacturing terminal body

Abstract

The invention provides a terminal block which is favorable for reducing the size of the terminal block. According to the embodiment of the invention, the terminal block comprises a terminal body, the terminal body includes a first plate portion, a second plate portion disposed to overlap the first plate portion, a first coupling portion connecting an end portion of the first plate portion to an end portion of the second plate portion, a third plate portion disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and a second coupling portion connecting an end portion of the second plate portion to an end portion of the third plate portion. A second coupling portion connecting the other end portion of the first plate portion to one end portion of the third plate portion, and a through hole formed in the first plate portion. A first conductive member is electrically connected to the third plate portion via the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a terminal block and a terminal body. Background Art

[0002] The terminal block is generally used to electrically connect a first conductive member to a second conductive member. Fig.42 As shown, the terminal block 100 of Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-61147 is configured such that the first terminal 101 and the second terminal 102 are inserted into the main housing 104 while being electrically connected together using the braided wire 103 .

[0003] At this time, the first terminal 101 is held in the main housing 104 via the first sub-housing 105, so that the first terminal 101 can move in a direction perpendicular to the penetration direction of the bolt insertion hole 101a of the first terminal 101. In addition, the second terminal 102 is held in the main housing 104 via the second sub-housing 106, so that the second terminal 102 can move in a direction perpendicular to the penetration direction of the bolt insertion hole 102a of the second terminal 102.

[0004] Therefore, even when the first conductive member electrically connected to the first terminal 101 is displaced relative to the first terminal 101, the braided wire 103 is deformed and allows the first terminal 101 to move relative to the main housing 104. This can absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member relative to the first terminal 101, thereby allowing the first conductive member and the first terminal 101 to be electrically connected to the nut 107 provided in the first sub housing 105 in a good state.

[0005] At the same time, even when the second conductive member electrically connected to the second terminal 102 is displaced relative to the second terminal 102, the braided wire 103 is deformed and allows the second terminal 102 to move relative to the main housing 104. This can absorb the positional displacement of the second conductive member relative to the second terminal 102, thereby allowing the second conductive member and the second terminal 102 to be electrically connected in a good state to the nut 108 provided in the second sub-housing 106. Such a terminal block 100 is attached to a device via a flange member 109. Summary of the invention

[0006] The terminal block 100 of Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-61147 is configured to absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member relative to the first terminal 101 and the positional deviation of the second conductive member relative to the second terminal 102 by deformation of the braided wire 103. In order to make the braided wire 103 absorb each positional deviation of the first conductive member and the positional deviation of the second conductive member in this way, a certain length of the braided wire 103 is required, resulting in a problem of increased size of the terminal block 100.

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to realize a method for manufacturing a terminal block and a terminal body that contributes to miniaturization of the terminal block.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present case, a terminal block includes a terminal; and a housing suitable for accommodating the terminal, wherein the terminal includes a terminal body, the terminal body is a bent body of a conductive material, a first connecting portion arranged on one end of the terminal body, the first connecting portion is suitable for electrically connecting a first conductive member, and a second connecting portion arranged on the other end of the terminal body, the second connecting portion is suitable for electrically connecting a second conductive member, the terminal body includes a first plate portion parallel to a plane perpendicular to a first axis, a second plate portion parallel to a plane perpendicular to the first axis, the second plate portion is arranged to overlap with the first plate portion in a direction along the first axis, a first coupling portion connecting one end of the first plate portion along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and an end of the second plate portion along the second axis, a third plate portion arranged between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, the third plate portion is parallel to a plane perpendicular to the first axis, a second coupling portion connecting the other end of the first plate portion along the second axis and one end of the third plate portion along the second axis, and a through hole formed in the first plate portion, and the first connecting portion is arranged on the third plate portion, and the first conductive member is electrically connected to the third plate portion through the through hole.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present case, a method for manufacturing a terminal body is a method for manufacturing a terminal body used in the aforementioned terminal block, the method comprising bending a long strip material made of a conductive material and extending along an axial direction into a flat spiral shape to form the third plate portion, the second coupling portion, the first plate portion, the first coupling portion and the second plate portion of the terminal body.

[0010] According to the present invention, a method for manufacturing a terminal block and a terminal body can be realized, which helps to reduce the size of the terminal block.

[0011] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, which are given by way of illustration only and thus should not be construed as limiting the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of Example 1 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the terminal block of Example 1 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0014] Figure 3 is along Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along line III-III.

[0015] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block of Example 1.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1 as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram for illustrating the manufacturing process of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1.

[0020] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram for illustrating the manufacturing process of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1.

[0021] Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram for illustrating the manufacturing process of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1.

[0022] Fig.11 It is a schematic diagram for illustrating the manufacturing process of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 1.

[0023] Fig.12 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 1 as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0024] Fig.13 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 1 as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0025] Fig.14 This is a schematic diagram of the housing of the terminal block of Example 1 viewed from the positive side of the Y axis.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the terminal in the terminal block of Example 1 is deformed toward the negative side of the Z axis, as viewed from the positive side of the X axis.

[0027] Fig.16 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the terminal in the terminal block of Example 1 is deformed toward the negative side of the X axis, as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0028] Fig.17 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the terminal body of the terminal block of Example 1 is deformed toward the negative side of the X-axis, as viewed from the positive side of the X-axis.

[0029] Fig.18 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a terminal in the terminal block of Example 1 is deformed toward the positive side of the Y axis, as viewed from the positive side of the X axis.

[0030] Fig.19 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0031] Fig. 20 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0032] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 Sectional view along line XXI-XXI.

[0033] Fig. 22 This is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block of Example 2.

[0034] Fig.23 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0035] Fig.24 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 2 as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0036] Fig.25 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0037] Fig.26 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0038] Fig. 27 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the positive side of the X-axis.

[0039] Fig.28 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 2 as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0040] Fig.29This is another perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 2 as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0041] Fig.30 This is a schematic diagram of the housing of the terminal block of Example 2 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0042] Fig.31 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0043] Fig.32 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0044] Fig.33 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0045] Fig.34 yes Fig.33 Sectional view along line XXXIV-XXXIV in FIG.

[0046] Fig.35 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 3 as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0047] Fig.36 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0048] Fig.37 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0049] Fig.38 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0050] Fig.39 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 3 as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0051] Fig.40 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of Example 3 viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0052] Fig.41 This is a perspective view showing a state where terminals housed in a housing of a terminal block according to Example 3 are viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0053] Fig.42 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-61147 is shown Figure 5 of the view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Hereinafter, specific embodiments to which the present invention is applied will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. In addition, the following description and drawings are appropriately simplified for clarity of explanation. In the following description, a three-dimensional (XYZ) coordinate system is used to make the description clear. Specifically, the Z axis corresponds to the first axis, the Y axis corresponds to the second axis, and the X axis corresponds to the third axis.

[0055] <Example 1>

[0056] The arrangement of the terminal block of this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Figure 3 is along Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along line III-III. Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the terminal block 1 is used to electrically connect a first conductive member 2 and a second conductive member 3. Here, the first conductive member 2 is, for example, a substantially cylindrical busbar extending in the Z-axis direction. Meanwhile, the second conductive member 3 is, for example, a plate-shaped busbar substantially parallel to the XY plane and extending in the Y-axis direction.

[0058] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the terminal block 1 includes a terminal 4 and a housing 5. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the terminal 4 includes a terminal body 6, a first connection portion 7 and a second connection portion 8. The details will be described later. The terminal body 6 is a bent body formed by bending a conductive material such as a strip metal plate extending in the Y-axis direction into a substantially flat spiral shape.

[0059] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0060] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the terminal body 6 includes a first plate portion 6a, a second plate portion 6b, a first coupling portion 6c, a third plate portion 6d and a second coupling portion 6e. The first plate portion 6a is substantially parallel to the XY plane and extends along the Y-axis direction. When the first plate portion 6a is viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first plate portion 6a has, for example, a substantially trapezoidal shape, and the width dimension of the trapezoidal shape in the X-axis direction decreases along the direction toward the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, a first through hole 6f is formed in the first plate portion 6a, which passes through the first plate portion 6a in the Z-axis direction. The first through hole 6f is, for example, roughly circular when viewed from the Z-axis direction. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first through hole 6f is arranged, for example, at the approximate center of the first plate portion 6a.

[0062] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the second plate portion 6b is substantially parallel to the XY plane and extends along the Y-axis direction. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the second plate portion 6b is substantially rectangular. The width dimension of the second plate portion 6b in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width dimension of the end portion of the first plate portion 6a located on the negative side of the Y-axis in the X-axis direction. The second plate portion 6b is arranged to overlap with the first plate portion 6a in the Z-axis direction.

[0063] Specifically, if Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the second plate portion 6b is arranged on the negative side of the Z axis relative to the first plate portion 6a. When viewed from the Z axis direction, the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the negative side of the Y axis is arranged at substantially the same position as the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the negative side of the Y axis. When viewed from the Z axis direction, the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the positive side of the Y axis protrudes further toward the positive side of the Y axis than the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0064] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, a second through hole 6g is formed in the second plate portion 6b and passes through the second plate portion 6b in the Z-axis direction. The second through hole 6g is, for example, substantially circular when viewed from the Z-axis direction and is arranged to substantially overlap with the first through hole 6f.

[0065] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, a third through hole 6h is formed at the end of the second plate portion 6b on the positive side of the Y axis, penetrating the second plate portion 6b in the Z axis direction. The third through hole 6h functions as the second connection portion 8 as described below.

[0066] Here, if Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the positive side of the Y axis can be wider than other parts in the X axis direction. Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the positive side of the Y axis may have a horizontally oriented C-shape when viewed from the Y axis direction. That is, the upright portions 6i may be provided at the opposite ends along the X axis direction on the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the positive side of the Y axis, so that the upright portions 6i extend upward to the positive side of the Z axis. For example, each upright portion 6i may be substantially rectangular in shape when viewed from the X axis direction.

[0067] It should be noted that if Figures 4 to 6 As shown, a cutout portion 6j that is roughly a right-angled triangle is formed on the second plate portion 6b. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the width dimension of the second plate portion 6b in the X-axis direction decreases along the direction of the area where the upright portion 6i is formed on the end of the second plate portion 6b on the positive side of the Y-axis, but the cutout portion 6j can also be omitted.

[0068] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the first coupling portion 6c connects the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the negative side of the Y axis and the end of the second plate portion 6b located on the negative side of the Y axis. The first coupling portion 6c is generally plate-shaped, and is, for example, generally parallel to the XZ plane. When viewed from the Y axis direction, the first coupling portion 6c is generally rectangular.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, the width dimension of the first coupling portion 6c in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width dimension of the end portion of the first plate portion 6a in the X-axis direction located on the negative side of the Y-axis. Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the end of the first coupling portion 6c on the positive side of the Z axis is continuous with the end of the first plate portion 6a on the negative side of the Y axis, and the end of the first coupling portion 6c on the negative side of the Z axis is continuous with the end of the second plate portion 6b on the negative side of the Y axis.

[0070] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the third plate portion 6d is substantially parallel to the XY plane and extends along the Y-axis direction. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the third plate portion 6d is substantially rectangular in shape. The width dimension of the third plate portion 6d in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width dimension of the end portion of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y-axis in the X-axis direction. The third plate portion 6d is disposed between the first plate portion 6a and the second plate portion 6b.

[0071] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the length of the third plate portion 6d along the Y-axis direction is shorter than the length of the first plate portion 6a along the Y-axis direction. In addition, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the end of the third plate portion 6d located on the positive side of the Y-axis is arranged at substantially the same position as the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y-axis. At the same time, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the end of the third plate portion 6d located on the negative side of the Y-axis is arranged on the negative side of the Y-axis relative to the first through hole 6f.

[0072] like Figures 3 to 6As shown, the third plate portion 6d has a fourth through hole 6k that penetrates the third plate portion 6d along the Z-axis direction. The fourth through hole 6k is, for example, substantially circular when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and may also be configured to be substantially concentric with the first through hole 6f. The size of the fourth through hole 6k is sufficient to allow the external thread portion 2a formed on the end portion of the first conductive member 2 located on the negative side of the Z-axis to pass through.

[0073] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the second coupling portion 6e connects the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y axis and the end of the third plate portion 6d located on the positive side of the Y axis. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the second coupling portion 6e is bent in a manner that protrudes toward the positive side of the Y axis, for example.

[0074] like Figure 7 As shown, the width dimension of the second coupling portion 6e in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width dimension of the end portion of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y-axis in the X-axis direction. Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the end of the second coupling portion 6e located on the positive side of the Z axis is continuous with the end of the first plate portion 6a located on the positive side of the Y axis, and the end of the second coupling portion 6e located on the negative side of the Z axis is continuous with the end of the third plate portion 6d located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0075] The shape of the terminal body 6 is such that the first plate portion 6a, the second plate portion 6b and the third plate portion 6d are arranged to overlap in the Z-axis direction so that they are substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the terminal body 6 is bent into a flat spiral shape to allow the third plate portion 6d, the second coupling portion 6e, the first plate portion 6a, the first coupling portion 6c and the second plate portion 6b to be continuous.

[0076] Hereinafter, a manufacturing process of the terminal body 6 in the terminal block 1 of the present embodiment will be described. Figures 8 to 11 Schematic diagram for explaining the manufacturing process of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, the strip material 9 is obtained by punching a conductive material such as a metal plate. The strip material 9 has a fourth through hole 6k, a first through hole 6f, a second through hole 6g, and a third through hole 6h formed in sequence, and a cutout portion 6j is formed at a predetermined position.

[0077] Next, if Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the strip material 9 is bent at a position between the fourth through hole 6k and the first through hole 6f, thereby forming a third plate portion 6d and a second coupling portion 6e. Fig.11As shown, the strip material 9 is bent at a position between the first through hole 6f and the second through hole 6g, thereby forming the first plate portion 6a.

[0078] Next, the strip material 9 forming the first plate portion 6a is bent at the second through hole 6g side thereof. That is, the strip material 9 is bent so that the third plate portion 6d is located inside, thereby forming the first coupling portion 6c and the second plate portion 6b.

[0079] Then, a vertical portion 6i is formed at the end of the second plate portion 6b on the positive side of the Y axis. Figures 5 to 7 The terminal body 6 is shown. In this way, the terminal body 6 can be easily manufactured by bending the strip material 9 into a flat spiral shape. It should be noted that the upright portion 6i can also be formed before bending the strip material 9.

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, the first connection portion 7 is provided on the third plate portion 6d which is one end portion of the terminal body 6. The first connection portion 7 includes a nut, which is, for example, a representative example of a connection member that is threadedly engaged with the external thread portion 2a of the first conductive member 2. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first connection portion 7 is fixed to, for example, a surface of the third plate portion 6d located on the positive side of the Z-axis in a state where the first connection portion 7 and the fourth through hole 6k are arranged approximately concentrically.

[0081] At this time, if Figure 3 As shown, when the first connection portion 7 passes through the first through hole 6f, the end of the first connection portion 7 located on the positive side of the Z axis can protrude from the first through hole 6f of the terminal body 6 to the positive side of the Z axis. In addition, a gap that allows the first connection portion 7 to be displaced in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction can be formed between the outer peripheral side surface of the first connection portion 7 and the circumferential portion of the first through hole 6f of the terminal body 6.

[0082] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the second connection portion 8 is provided on the end portion of the second plate portion 6b, which is the other end portion of the terminal body 6, located on the positive side of the Y axis. Figure 3 As shown, the second connection portion 8 includes, for example, a third through hole 6 h and is adapted to pass through a bolt 10 that has previously passed through a through hole 3 a formed in the second conductive member 3 .

[0083] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the housing 5 accommodates the terminals 4. The housing 5 is a molded product made of an insulating material such as resin. Fig.12 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of the present embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.13 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.14 This is a diagram of the housing of the terminal block of the present embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Y axis.

[0084] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown in the figure, the housing 5 has a hollow substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 5 is open on the positive side of the Y axis and the positive side of the Z axis. That is, the housing 5 includes a first side wall portion 5a, a second side wall portion 5b, a third side wall portion 5c and a bottom portion 5d. The first side wall portion 5a is in a plate shape substantially parallel to the YZ plane and extends along the Y axis direction.

[0085] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown, the second side wall portion 5b is arranged opposite to the first side wall portion 5a in the X-axis direction and is arranged on the negative side of the X-axis relative to the first side wall portion 5a. The second side wall portion 5b is in the shape of a plate that is substantially parallel to the YZ plane and extends along the Y-axis direction. Figure 1 As shown, the gap between the first side wall portion 5a and the second side wall portion 5b along the X-axis direction is substantially equal to, for example, the width of the end portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0086] At this time, if Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown, the first protrusions 5e protruding facing each other in the X-axis direction can be formed on the corners of the first side wall portion 5a located on the positive side of the Y-axis and the positive side of the Z-axis and the corners of the second side wall portion 5b located on the positive side of the Y-axis and the positive side of the Z-axis. When viewed from the X-axis direction, each first protrusion 5e is, for example, roughly rectangular in shape.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the thickness of each first protrusion 5e in the X-axis direction may be substantially equal to the thickness of each upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 in the X-axis direction. In addition, an inclined surface 5f may be formed on the end of each first protrusion 5e located on the positive side of the Z-axis, and the inclined surface 5f is inclined toward the other first protrusions 5e in the direction toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0088] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown, the third side wall portion 5c is in a plate shape that is substantially parallel to the XZ plane and extends in the X-axis direction. The end of the third side wall portion 5c located on the positive side of the X-axis is continuous with the end of the first side wall portion 5a located on the negative side of the Y-axis, and the end of the third side wall portion 5c located on the negative side of the X-axis is continuous with the end of the second side wall portion 5b located on the negative side of the Y-axis. Therefore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first side wall portion 5a, the second side wall portion 5b, and the third side wall portion 5c form a substantially C-shape.

[0089] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the bottom 5d is in a generally rectangular shape. The bottom 5d is in a generally plate-like shape parallel to the XY plane. The first side wall portion 5a protrudes from the end of the bottom 5d located on the positive side of the X-axis to the positive side of the Z-axis. The second side wall portion 5b protrudes from the end of the bottom 5d located on the negative side of the X-axis to the positive side of the Z-axis. The third side wall portion 5c protrudes from the end of the bottom 5d located on the negative side of the Y-axis to the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0090] like Fig.12 As shown, the surface of the bottom 5d located on the positive side of the Z axis has a stepped shape. That is, the surface of the bottom 5d located on the positive side of the Z axis is formed with a first portion 5g and a second portion 5h arranged on the positive side of the Z axis relative to the first portion 5g. When viewed from the Z axis direction, the first portion 5g is, for example, roughly rectangular.

[0091] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the negative side of the Y axis is arranged in the space on the positive side of the Z axis relative to the first portion 5g, and is opposite to the end of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the positive side of the Y axis. Fig.12 As shown, a second protrusion 5i protruding toward the positive side of the Z axis is formed on the first portion 5g. When viewed from the Z axis direction, the second protrusion 5i is, for example, annular. The outer diameter of the second protrusion 5i is smaller than the diameter of the second through hole 6g of the terminal 4.

[0092] like Fig.12 As shown, the second portion 5h is arranged on the positive side of the Y axis relative to the first portion 5g, and is generally rectangular when viewed from the Z axis direction. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the end portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the positive side in the Y-axis direction is arranged in a space on the positive side in the Z-axis direction relative to the second portion 5h.

[0093] like Figure 3 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, a through hole 5j is formed in the second portion 5h, suitable for the bolt 10 that has passed through the third through hole 6h of the terminal 4 to pass through. Figure 1 As shown, the gap between the surface of the second portion 5h located on the positive side of the Z axis and the end of each first protrusion 5e located on the negative side of the Z axis can be substantially equal to the height of each upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 in the Z axis direction.

[0094] When the terminal 4 is accommodated in the housing 5, Figure 1As shown, the end of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the positive side of the Y axis is placed on the surface of the second portion 5h located on the positive side of the Z axis at the bottom 5d of the housing 5, and the upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 is inserted into the space between the second portion 5h and the first protrusion 5e. At this time, the surface of the second portion 5h of the bottom 5d of the housing 5 located on the positive side of the Z axis functions as a determining plane for determining the height position of the terminal 4 in the housing 5 in the Z axis direction.

[0095] like Figure 3 As shown, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the third through hole 6h of the terminal 4 and the through hole 5j of the housing 5 are arranged approximately concentrically. In addition, in a state where there is a gap between the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 and the first portion 5g of the bottom 5d of the housing 5 in the Z-axis direction, the second protrusion 5i of the housing 5 passes through the second through hole 6g of the terminal 4.

[0096] At this time, the gap formed between the terminal 4 and the inner circumferential side of the shell 5 allows the portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the negative side of the Y axis to deform in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction relative to the portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0097] Next, the assembly process of the terminal block 1 of the present embodiment is described. First, the terminal 4 is pushed toward the negative side of the Z axis, the terminal 4 is accommodated in the housing 5 from the positive side of the Z axis, and the upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 passes over the first protrusion 5e of the housing 5 toward the negative side of the Z axis. At this time, if each first protrusion 5e has an inclined surface 5f formed thereon, the terminal 4 can be smoothly pushed toward the negative side of the Z axis.

[0098] Then, the upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 is inserted into the space between the second portion 5h and the first protrusion 5e, and the end of the second plate portion 6b on the positive side of the Y axis is placed on the surface of the second portion 5h on the positive side of the Z axis of the bottom 5d of the housing 5. At the same time, when viewed from the Z axis direction, the third through hole 6h of the terminal 4 and the through hole 5j of the housing 5 are arranged roughly concentrically, and the second protrusion 5i of the housing 5 passes through the second through hole 6g of the terminal 4. Thus, the terminal block 1 is assembled.

[0099] Here, when assembling the terminal block 1, if the gap in the X-axis direction between the first side wall portion 5a and the second side wall portion 5b of the shell 5 is approximately equal to the width dimension of the end portion of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 located on the positive side of the Y-axis, and the gap between the surface of the second portion 5h of the bottom 5d of the shell 5 located on the positive side of the Z-axis and the end portion of each first protrusion 5e located on the negative side of the Z-axis is approximately equal to the height of each upright portion 6i of the terminal 4 in the Z-axis direction, then the shell 5 can be allowed to limit the position of the terminal 4 in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction.

[0100] Next, the process of electrically connecting the first conductive member 2 and the second conductive member 3 to the terminal block 1 of the present embodiment is described. First, for example, while the first conductive member 2 is passed through the first through hole 6f of the terminal 4 from the positive side of the Z axis, the external thread portion 2a of the first conductive member 2 is screwed into the first connecting portion 7 of the terminal 4. At this time, the end of the external thread portion 2a of the first conductive member 2 located on the negative side of the Z axis can pass through the fourth through hole 6k of the terminal 4.

[0101] At the same time, for example, the second conductive member 3 is placed on the end of the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 on the positive side of the Y axis from the positive side of the Z axis, and when viewed from the Z axis direction, the through hole 3a of the second conductive member 3, the third through hole 6h of the terminal 4 and the through hole 5j of the shell 5 are arranged roughly concentrically.

[0102] Then, the bolt 10 is passed through the through hole 3a of the second conductive member 3, the third through hole 6h of the terminal 4, and the through hole 5j of the housing 5 from the positive side of the Z axis, and then screwed into the internal thread of the electronic component (not shown). Thus, the first conductive member 2 and the second conductive member 3 can be electrically connected to the terminal block 1, and the terminal block 1 can be fixed to the electronic component.

[0103] Next, the deformation state of the terminal 4 in the terminal block 1 of the present embodiment will be described. Fig.15 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the terminal in the terminal block of this embodiment is deformed toward the negative side of the Z axis, as viewed from the positive side of the X axis. Fig.16 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the terminal in the terminal block of this embodiment is deformed toward the negative side of the X axis, as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.17 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a terminal body in the terminal block of the present embodiment is deformed toward the negative side of the X-axis when viewed from the positive side of the X-axis. Fig.18 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a terminal in the terminal block of the present embodiment is deformed toward the positive side of the Y axis, as viewed from the positive side of the X axis.

[0104] like Fig.15 As shown, when a force acts on the first connecting portion 7 of the terminal 4 toward the negative side of the Z axis, the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is pushed toward the negative side of the Z axis, and thereby, the first connecting portion 7 is displaced toward the negative side of the Z axis. At the same time, the first plate portion 6a of the terminal 4 is deformed in a manner of tilting toward the negative side of the Z axis along the direction toward the positive side of the Y axis, and the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 is also deformed so that it tilts toward the negative side of the Z axis along the direction toward the negative side of the Y axis.

[0105] In this way, since the first plate portion 6a and the second plate portion 6b deform in different directions, the deformations cancel each other out. This enables the third plate portion 6d to be maintained substantially parallel to the XY plane. At this time, the third plate portion 6d can contact the second protrusion 5i of the housing 5, thereby limiting the deformation of the third plate portion 6d toward the negative side of the Z axis.

[0106] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, when a force acts on the first connection portion 7 of the terminal 4 toward the negative side of the X-axis, the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is pushed toward the negative side of the X-axis, thereby causing the first connection portion 7 to be displaced toward the negative side of the X-axis. At the same time, viewed from the positive side of the Z-axis, the first plate portion 6a is deformed in a counterclockwise rotation, and the second plate portion 6b is deformed in a clockwise rotation.

[0107] Then, if Fig.17 As shown, viewed from the positive side of the Y-axis, the first plate portion 6a and the second plate portion 6b of the terminal 4 are respectively twisted clockwise along the direction toward the negative side of the Y-axis, and the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is twisted counterclockwise along the direction toward the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0108] Thus, since the first plate portion 6a, the second plate portion 6b and the third plate portion 6d are twisted in different directions, the twists cancel each other out, which enables the third plate portion 6d to be maintained in a state substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0109] At this time, if the first plate portion 6a of the terminal 4 has a roughly trapezoidal shape so that its width dimension in the X-axis direction decreases along the direction toward the positive side of the Y-axis, then when the first connecting portion 7 shifts along the X-axis direction, the first plate portion 6a can be prevented from contacting the shell 5, thereby allowing the first connecting portion 7 to shift smoothly along the X-axis direction.

[0110] like Fig.18As shown, when a force toward the positive side of the Y axis is applied to the first connecting portion 7 of the terminal 4, the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is pushed toward the positive side of the Y axis, so that the first connecting portion 7 is displaced toward the positive side of the Y axis. When the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is pushed toward the positive side of the Y axis, the first plate portion 6a and the second plate portion 6b are deformed so that they are tilted toward the positive side of the Z axis along the direction toward the negative side of the Y axis. In addition, the third plate portion 6d of the terminal 4 is deformed in a manner of tilting toward the negative side of the Z axis along the direction toward the negative side of the Y axis.

[0111] In this way, since the first plate portion 6a, the second plate portion 6b, and the third plate portion 6d deform in different directions, these deformations cancel each other out. Thus, the third plate portion 6d can be maintained in a state substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0112] The terminal block 1 of this embodiment can absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member 2 relative to the terminal block 1 because the terminal body 6 can be deformed in all directions such as the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the terminal block 1 of this embodiment allows the first conductive member 2 to be smoothly connected to the terminal block 1.

[0113] Further, the shape of the terminal body 6 of the present embodiment is such that the first plate portion 6a, the second plate portion 6b and the third plate portion 6d are arranged to overlap in the Z-axis direction so that they are substantially parallel to each other. Therefore, the deformation of the plate portions of the terminal body 6 can offset each other, and thus the third plate portion 6d can remain substantially parallel to the XY plane as described above. Thus, the first conductive member 2 can be conveniently connected to the first connecting portion 7 of the terminal 4. That is, the terminal block 1 of the present embodiment has good connectivity with the first conductive member 2.

[0114] In addition, as described above, the terminal body 6 of the present embodiment is formed to be bent into a flat spiral shape, thereby allowing the third plate portion 6d, the second coupling portion 6e, the first plate portion 6a, the first coupling portion 6c and the second plate portion 6b to be continuous. That is, since the terminal body 6 is bent so that the third plate portion 6d is located inside it, the positional deviation of the first conductive member 2 relative to the terminal block 1 can be absorbed, and at the same time, the size of the terminal body 6 can be avoided from increasing, thereby avoiding an increase in the size of the terminal block 1. This helps to reduce the size of the terminal block 1.

[0115] In addition, the terminal body 6 of the present embodiment can be easily manufactured by bending the strip material 9 into a flat spiral shape.

[0116] <Example 2>

[0117] The structure of the terminal block of this embodiment will be described. Fig.19 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig. 20 This is a diagram of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.21 is along Fig. 20 Cross-sectional view of line XXI-XXI in FIG. Fig. 22 It is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment. Fig.23 This is a diagram of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. In addition, the terminal block 21 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the terminal block 1 of Embodiment 1. Therefore, repeated description will be omitted.

[0118] like Figures 19 to 23 As shown, the terminal block 21 includes a terminal 22 and a housing 23. The terminal 22 includes a terminal body 24, a first connection portion 25, and a second connection portion 26. The terminal body 24 is also a bent body obtained by bending a conductive material such as a strip-shaped metal plate into a substantially spiral shape.

[0119] Fig.24 This is a stereoscopic view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.25 It is a stereoscopic view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.26 It is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig. 27 It is a schematic diagram of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the positive side of the X-axis.

[0120] like Figure 24 to Figure 27 As shown, the terminal body 24 includes a first plate portion 24a, a second plate portion 24b, a first coupling portion 24c, a third plate portion 24d, and a second coupling portion 24e, and further includes a first slit portion 24f and a second slit portion 24g.

[0121] like Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, the first slit portion 24f is continuously formed in the first plate portion 24a, the first coupling portion 24c and the second plate portion 24b, so that the first slit portion 24f extends from the end of the first plate portion 24a located on the negative side of the Y axis via the first coupling portion 24c to the end of the second plate portion 24b located on the negative side of the Y axis.

[0122] For example, Figure 24 to Figure 26As shown, the first slit portion 24f is arranged on a line passing through the surfaces of the first plate portion 24a, the first coupling portion 24c and the second plate portion 24b and connecting the center of the first through hole 24h of the first plate portion 24a and the center of the second through hole 24i of the second plate portion 24b.

[0123] Here, if Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, a bent portion 24j is formed at the end of the second plate portion 24b on the positive side of the Y axis. The bent portion 24j is substantially L-shaped when viewed from the Z axis direction, and extends toward the positive side of the X axis and further toward the positive side of the Y axis.

[0124] like Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, a third through hole 24k is formed at the distal end (positive side of the Y axis) of the curved portion 24j. In addition, a plurality of fourth through holes 24l spaced apart in the X axis direction are formed at the proximal end (negative side of the Y axis) of the curved portion 24j.

[0125] For example, Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, the second slit portion 24g is continuously formed in the first plate portion 24a, the second coupling portion 24e and the third plate portion 24d, so that the second slit portion 24g reaches the end of the third plate portion 24d located on the positive direction side of the Y-axis from the first through hole 24h of the first plate portion 24a via the second coupling portion 24e.

[0126] For example, Figure 24 to Figure 26 As shown, the second slit portion 24g is arranged on a line passing through the surfaces of the first plate portion 24a, the second coupling portion 24e and the third plate portion 24d and connecting the center of the first through hole 24h of the first plate portion 24a and the center of the fifth through hole 24m of the third plate portion 24d.

[0127] like Fig.21 As shown, the first connection portion 25 includes a bolt, which is a representative example of a connection member, and is adapted to be screwed into an internal thread portion 27a formed in an end portion of the first conductive member 27 located on the negative side of the Z axis. In a state where the shaft portion 25a of the first connection portion 25 passes through the fifth through hole 24m of the terminal body 24 from the negative side of the Z axis, the first connection portion 25 is fixed to the third plate portion 24d of the terminal body 24 by clamping the first connection portion 25 from opposite sides of the first connection portion 25 in the Z axis direction with a crimping jig that has passed through the first through hole 24h and the second through hole 24i of the terminal body 24.

[0128] like Fig.21As shown, the second connection portion 26 includes a bolt, which is a representative example of a connection member, and is adapted to pass through a through hole 28a formed in an end portion of the second conductive member 28 located on the negative side in the Y-axis direction and through the third through hole 24k of the terminal body 24. In a state where the shaft portion 26a of the second connection portion 26 passes through the third through hole 24k of the terminal body 24 from the negative side in the Z-axis direction, the second connection portion 26 is fixed to the second plate portion 24b of the terminal body 24 by clamping the second connection portion 26 from the opposite side in the Z-axis direction of the second connection portion 26 using a crimping jig.

[0129] like Fig.21 and Fig.23 As shown, the housing 23 accommodates the terminal 22 . Fig.28 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.29 These are different perspective views of the housing of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.30 This is a schematic diagram of the housing of the terminal block of this embodiment viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0130] like Figures 28 to 30 As shown, the housing 23 has a substantially hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 23 is open on the negative side of the Z axis. That is, the housing 23 includes a first side wall portion 23a, a second side wall portion 23b, a third side wall portion 23c, a fourth side wall portion 23d and a top portion 23e.

[0131] like Figures 28 to 30 As shown, the first side wall portion 23a and the second side wall portion 23b are arranged to face each other in the X-axis direction. The third side wall portion 23c and the fourth side wall portion 23d are arranged to face each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0132] like Fig.19 and Fig.23 As shown, a cutout portion 23f is formed in the end portion of the fourth side wall portion 23d disposed on the positive side of the Y axis and located on the negative side of the Z axis to allow the distal end portion of the bent portion 24j of the terminal 22 to protrude from the housing 23 to the positive side of the Y axis. Figures 28 to 30 As shown, the surface of the cutout portion 23f on the positive side of the Z axis is, for example, a plane substantially parallel to the XY plane.

[0133] like Figures 28 to 30 As shown, the boss 23g adapted to pass through the corresponding fourth through hole 241 of the terminal 22 protrudes from the surface of the cutout portion 23f on the positive side of the Z axis to the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.21 and Fig.23As shown, when the end of the boss 23g is pressed by heat while the boss 23g passes through the fourth through hole 241 of the terminal 22 and the second plate portion 24b of the terminal 22 is in substantially surface contact with the surface of the cutout portion 23f of the housing 23 on the positive side of the Z axis, each boss 23g allows the terminal 22 to be fixed to the housing 23. At this time, the surface of the cutout portion 23f on the positive side of the Z axis serves as a determining plane for determining the height position of the terminal 22 in the housing 23 in the Z axis direction.

[0134] Here, if Figures 28 to 30 As shown, a first reinforcing rib 23h may be formed on the third side wall portion 23c, so that the first reinforcing rib 23h protrudes from the third side wall portion 23c toward the positive side of the Y axis. The first reinforcing rib 23h extends along the Z axis direction and is substantially rectangular when viewed from the X axis direction. Fig.21 and Fig.23 As shown, the first reinforcing rib 23 h is provided in the first slit portion 24 f of the terminal 22 .

[0135] In addition, if Figures 28 to 30 As shown, a second reinforcing rib 23i may be formed on the fourth side wall portion 23d, so that the second reinforcing rib 23i protrudes from the fourth side wall portion 23d toward the negative side of the Y axis. The second reinforcing rib 23i extends along the Z axis direction and is substantially rectangular when viewed from the X axis direction. Fig.21 As shown, the second reinforcing rib 23 i is provided in the second slit portion 24 g of the terminal 22 .

[0136] As described above, forming the first reinforcing rib 23h and the second reinforcing rib 23i in the housing 23 can improve the rigidity of the housing 23. In addition, since the first reinforcing rib 23h is provided in the first slit portion 24f of the terminal 22 and the second reinforcing rib 23i is provided in the second slit portion 24g of the terminal 22, it is also possible to avoid increasing the size of the terminal block 21.

[0137] like Figures 28 to 30 As shown, a fixing portion 23j is formed on the fourth side wall portion 23d, and the fixing portion 23j protrudes from the end of the fourth side wall portion 23d located on the negative side of the X axis to the positive side of the Y axis. The fixing portion 23j is in the shape of a plate that is substantially parallel to the XY plane, and is substantially rectangular when viewed from the Z axis direction. At this time, a chamfered portion 23k may also be formed on the end of the fixing portion 23j located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0138] In addition, if Fig.28 and Fig.29As shown, the fixing portion 23j can be reinforced by the third reinforcement rib 23l from the opposite side of the fixing portion 23j in the X-axis direction. For example, the third reinforcement rib 23l has a substantially right triangle shape when viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0139] like Figures 28 to 30 As shown, the fixing portion 23j has a first through hole 23m formed therein. Fig.23 As shown, a collar 30 is provided in the first through hole 23m, and the collar 30 is suitable for passing a bolt 29 for fixing the terminal block 21 to the electronic component.

[0140] like Fig.28 and Fig.30 As shown, the top portion 23e has a second through hole 23n formed therein. Figures 19 to 21 As shown, the second through hole 23 n is suitable for passing through the first conductive member 27 .

[0141] Next, the assembly process of the terminal block 21 of the present embodiment is described. First, the distal end of the bent portion 24j of the terminal 22 is made to protrude from the cutout portion 23f of the housing 23 toward the positive side of the Y axis, and a portion of the terminal 22 located on the negative side of the Y axis relative to the bent portion 24j is received in the housing 23 from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0142] At this time, the boss 23g of the housing 23 is passed through each fourth through hole 241 of the terminal 22, and the second plate portion 24b of the terminal 22 is substantially in surface contact with the surface of the cutout portion 23f of the housing 23 located on the positive side of the Z axis. In addition, the first reinforcing rib 23h of the housing 23 is provided in the first slit portion 24f of the terminal 22, and the second reinforcing rib 23i of the housing 23 is provided in the second slit portion 24g of the terminal 22.

[0143] Next, the end portion of each boss 23g of the housing 23 located on the negative side of the Z axis is heat-pressed, thereby allowing the bent portion 24j of the terminal 22 to be sandwiched between the end portion of the boss 23g of the housing 23 located on the negative side of the Z axis and the surface of the cutout portion 23f located on the positive side of the Z axis, thereby fixing the terminal 22 to the housing 23. Thus, the assembly of the terminal block 21 is completed.

[0144] Next, the process of fixing the terminal block 21 of this embodiment to the electronic component and electrically connecting the first conductive member 27 and the second conductive member 28 to the terminal block 21 is described. First, the collar 30 is set in the first through hole 23m of the housing 23. Then, the bolt 29 is passed through the collar 30 and screwed into the internal thread portion of the electronic component, thereby fixing the terminal block 21 to the electronic component.

[0145] Next, for example, while the first conductive component 27 passes through the second through hole 23n of the shell 23 and the first through hole 24h of the terminal 22 from the positive side of the Z axis, the shaft portion 25a of the first connecting portion 25 of the terminal 22 is screwed into the internal thread portion 27a of the first conductive component 27, thereby electrically connecting the first conductive component 27 to the terminal block 21.

[0146] At the same time, for example, the shaft portion 26a of the second connection portion 26 passes through the through hole 28a of the second conductive member 28, so that the second conductive member 28 is placed at the distal end of the bent portion 24j of the terminal 22, and the nut 31 is screwed to the shaft portion 26a of the second connection portion 26 from the positive side of the Z axis. This allows the second conductive member 28 to be electrically connected to the terminal block 21. Thus, the terminal block 21 can be fixed to the electronic component, and the first conductive member 27 and the second conductive member 28 can be electrically connected to the terminal block 21.

[0147] This terminal block 21 is also configured, like the terminal block 1 described in Embodiment 1, so that the terminal body 24 can be deformed in all directions including the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, so that the position displacement of the first conductive member 27 relative to the terminal block 21 can be absorbed. Therefore, the terminal block 21 of this embodiment can make the first conductive member 27 well connected to the terminal block 21.

[0148] In addition, the shape of the terminal body 24 of the present embodiment is also such that the first plate portion 24a, the second plate portion 24b and the third plate portion 24d are arranged to overlap in the Z-axis direction so that they are substantially parallel to each other. Therefore, the deformation of the plate portions of the terminal body 24 can offset each other, and thus the third plate portion 24d can remain substantially parallel to the XY plane. Therefore, the first conductive member 27 can be easily connected to the first connecting portion 25 of the terminal 22. That is, the connectivity of the terminal block 21 of the present embodiment with the first conductive member 27 is also high.

[0149] In addition, since the terminal body 24 of this embodiment is also bent in such a way that the third plate portion 24d is located inside, it is possible to absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member 27 relative to the terminal block 21, and at the same time, it is possible to avoid increasing the size of the terminal body 24, thereby avoiding increasing the size of the terminal block 21. This helps to reduce the size of the terminal block 21.

[0150] Specifically, since the terminal body 24 of the present embodiment has the first slit portion 24f and the second slit portion 24g formed therein, the terminal body 24 is more easily deformed than the terminal body 6 of Embodiment 1. Therefore, compared with the terminal block 1 of Embodiment 1, the terminal block 21 of the present embodiment can more easily absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member 27 relative to the terminal block 21, and therefore, the first conductive member 27 can be well connected to the terminal block 21.

[0151] In addition, when the housing 23 has the first reinforcing rib 23h and the second reinforcing rib 23i formed thereon, it is possible to improve the rigidity of the housing 23. In addition, when the first reinforcing rib 23h is provided in the first slit portion 24f of the terminal 22 and the second reinforcing rib 23i is provided in the second slit portion 24g of the terminal 22, it is possible to avoid increasing the size of the terminal block 21.

[0152] Although the terminal body 24 of the present embodiment has the first slit portion 24f and the second slit portion 24g formed therein, only one of them may be provided, or both may be omitted. In addition, although the first slit portion 24f is continuously formed in the first plate portion 24a, the first coupling portion 24c, and the second plate portion 24b of the terminal body 24, the first slit portion 24f does not need to be continuous, and may be formed in at least one of the first plate portion 24a, the first coupling portion 24c, or the second plate portion 24b.

[0153] Similarly, although the second slit portion 24g is continuously formed in the first plate portion 24a, the second coupling portion 24e, and the third plate portion 24d of the terminal body 24, the second slit portion 24g does not need to be continuous and can be formed in at least one of the first plate portion 24a, the second coupling portion 24e, or the third plate portion 24d.

[0154] <Example 3>

[0155] The structure of the terminal block of this embodiment will be described. Fig.31 This is a perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.32This is a perspective view of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.33 This is a diagram of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.34 is along Fig.33 It is to be noted that the terminal block 41 of the present embodiment has substantially the same structure as the terminal block 1 of Embodiment 1, etc. Therefore, repeated description will be omitted.

[0156] like Figure 31 to Figure 34 As shown, the terminal block 41 includes a terminal 42 on the positive side of the X-axis, a terminal 42 on the negative side of the X-axis, and a housing 43. Here, since the terminal 42 on the positive side of the X-axis and the terminal 42 on the negative side of the X-axis have the same structure, the structure of the terminal 42 on the positive side of the X-axis is described as a representative example.

[0157] like Fig.34 As shown, the terminal 42 has substantially the same configuration as the terminal 22 of Embodiment 2, and specifically includes a terminal body 44, a first connection portion 45, and a second connection portion 46. The terminal body 44 is also a bent body obtained by bending a conductive material such as a strip metal plate into a substantially spiral shape.

[0158] Fig.35 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis.

[0159] Fig.36 This is a perspective view of the terminal body in the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.37 This is a diagram of a terminal body in the terminal block of the present embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.38 This is a diagram of a terminal body in the terminal block of the present embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis.

[0160] like Figures 34 to 38 As shown, the terminal body 44 includes a first plate portion 44a, a second plate portion 44b, a first coupling portion 44c, a third plate portion 44d, a second coupling portion 44e, a first slit portion 44f and a second slit portion 44g.

[0161] like Figures 34 to 38As shown, a first through hole 44h is formed in the first plate portion 44a, and the first through hole 44h is suitable for passing through the first conductive member 27 and the crimping clamp, and the crimping clamp is located on the positive side of the Z axis, and is used to fix the first connection portion 45 to the third plate portion 44d. A second through hole 44i is formed in the second plate portion 44b, and the second through hole 44i is suitable for passing through the crimping clamp, and the crimping clamp is located on the negative side of the Z axis, and is used to fix the first connection portion 45 to the third plate portion 44d. Here, the first connection portion 45 may include, for example, a bolt that is the same as the first connection portion 25 of Example 2.

[0162] In addition, if Figures 34 to 38 As shown, a third through hole 44j is formed in the end portion of the second plate portion 44b located on the positive side of the Y axis, and the second connecting portion 46 is fixed in a state where the shaft portion 46a of the second connecting portion 46 passes through the third through hole 44j. Here, the second connecting portion 46 may include, for example, a bolt similar to the second connecting portion 26 of Embodiment 2.

[0163] like Figures 35 to 38 As shown, unlike the terminal body 24 of Example 2, the end of the second plate portion 44b located on the positive side of the Y axis does not include the bent portion 24j and the fourth through hole 24l. In addition, a wide portion 44k wider than other portions in the X-axis direction is formed at the end of the second plate portion 44b located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0164] like Fig.37 and Fig.38 As shown, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each wide portion 44k is, for example, roughly triangular. At this time, each wide portion 44k may have an inclined portion, and when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the width dimension of the inclined portion in the X-axis direction increases along the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0165] like Fig.37 and Fig.38 As shown, the wide portions 44k on the positive side of the X-axis are arranged at intervals in the Y-axis direction, and the wide portions 44k on the negative side of the X-axis are arranged at intervals in the Y-axis direction. In addition, the wide portions 44k on the positive side of the X-axis and the wide portions 44k on the negative side of the X-axis are arranged opposite to each other in the X-axis direction.

[0166] like Figures 34 to 38 As shown, the third plate portion 44d has a fourth through hole 441 formed therein, and the first connection portion 45 is fixed in a state where the shaft portion 45a of the first connection portion 45 passes through the fourth through hole 441.

[0167] The first slit portion 44f is continuously formed in the first plate portion 44a, the first coupling portion 44c and the second plate portion 44b. Fig.36 and Fig.38 As shown, the first slit portion 44f may be formed, for example, to a position beyond the second through hole 44i of the second plate portion 44b on the positive side of the Y axis. The second slit portion 44g is continuously formed in the first plate portion 44a, the second coupling portion 44e and the third plate portion 44d.

[0168] like Fig.31 and 32 As shown, the housing 43 accommodates the terminal 42. The housing 43 includes a plurality of (e.g., two) accommodating portions 47 and a fixing portion 48 arranged along the X-axis direction corresponding to the number of the terminals 42. Here, the plurality of accommodating portions 47 have the same shape. Therefore, the accommodating portion 47 on the positive side of the X-axis is used as a representative for description.

[0169] Fig.39 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of the present embodiment as viewed from the positive side of the Z axis. Fig.40 This is a perspective view of the housing of the terminal block of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z axis. Fig.41 This is a perspective view showing a state where terminals housed in a housing of a terminal block according to the present embodiment are viewed from the positive Z-axis side.

[0170] like Fig.39 and Fig.40 As shown, the receiving portion 47 includes a body 47a, a protrusion 47b, a reinforcing rib 47c and an inserting portion 47d. The body 47a has a substantially hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape. The body 47a includes a first side wall portion 47e, a second side wall portion 47f, a third side wall portion 47g, a top portion 47h and a bottom portion 47i.

[0171] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the first side wall portion 47e and the second side wall portion 47f are arranged to face each other in the X-axis direction. The gap in the X-axis direction between the first side wall portion 47e and the second side wall portion 47f is substantially equal to the width dimension in the X-axis direction from the end of each wide width portion 44k of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the X-axis to the end of each wide width portion 44k of the terminal 42 located on the negative side of the X-axis. Here, the second side wall portion 47f also serves as the first side wall portion 47e of the body 47a adjacent to the negative side of the X-axis.

[0172] like Fig.39 and Fig.40As shown, the third side wall portion 47g is continuous with the end of the first side wall portion 47e located on the negative side of the Y axis and the end of the second side wall portion 47f located on the negative side of the Y axis. The top portion 47h covers the portion of the space surrounded by the first side wall portion 47e, the second side wall portion 47f and the third side wall portion 47g located on the negative side of the Y axis from the positive direction side of the Z axis. Therefore, a continuous first opening 47j is formed on the positive side of the Y axis of the body 47a and on the positive side of the Y axis relative to the top portion 47h.

[0173] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the top portion 47h has a through hole 47k and a cutout portion 471 formed therein. The through hole 47k is suitable for passing the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45. At this time, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first through hole 44h of the terminal 42 is substantially concentric with the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45. The through hole 47k is, for example, substantially circular when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and the diameter of the through hole 47k is slightly larger than the diameter of the first conductive member 27.

[0174] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the cutout portion 471 is formed in the top portion 47h, extending from the through hole 47k to the positive side of the Y axis, and reaching the end of the top portion 47h located on the positive side of the Y axis. The width dimension of the cutout portion 471 in the X-axis direction is slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45.

[0175] like Fig.39 and Fig.40 As shown, the bottom 47i connects the corner of the first side wall 47e located on the positive side of the Y axis and the negative side of the Z axis and the corner of the second side wall 47f located on the positive side of the Y axis and the negative side of the Z axis. Therefore, a second opening 47m is formed on the negative side of the Y axis of the bottom 47i of the body 47a.

[0176] like Fig.41 As shown, the end of the second plate portion 44b of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the Y axis is placed on the surface of the positive side of the Z axis of the bottom 47i. At this time, the surface of the positive side of the Z axis of the bottom 47i is used as a determining plane for determining the height position of the terminal 42 in the body 47a in the Z axis direction.

[0177] like Figure 39 to Figure 41As shown, the protrusion 47b protrudes from the top 47h to the positive side of the Z axis in a manner of surrounding the through hole 47k. When viewed from the Z axis direction, the protrusion 47b is, for example, roughly annular, but may also be roughly conical, so that the diameter of the outer peripheral side surface of the protrusion 47b decreases in the direction toward the positive side of the Z axis. The protrusion 47b has a through hole 47n and a cutout 47o formed therein.

[0178] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the through hole 47n is formed in the protrusion 47b and is continuous with the through hole 47k of the body 47a in the Z-axis direction. The through hole 47n is suitable for passing the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45. The diameter of the through hole 47n is substantially equal to the diameter of the through hole 47k of the body 47a.

[0179] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the cutout portion 47o is formed by partially cutting off the Y-axis positive side of the protrusion 47b. The cutout portion 47o is continuous with the cutout portion 471 of the body 47a in the Z-axis direction. The width dimension of the cutout portion 47o in the X-axis direction is substantially equal to the width dimension of the cutout portion 471 of the body 47a in the X-axis direction.

[0180] like Fig.39 and Fig.40 As shown, the reinforcing rib 47c is the same as the first reinforcing rib 23h of the housing 23 of the second embodiment, and protrudes from the third side wall portion 47g of the body 47a toward the positive side of the Y axis. Fig.32 and Fig.34 As shown, the reinforcing rib 47 c is provided in the first slit portion 44 f of the terminal 42 .

[0181] At this time, if Fig.39 and Fig.40 As shown, the reinforcing rib 47c may have a horizontal portion 47p formed thereon, which protrudes from the end of the reinforcing rib 47c located on the negative side of the Z axis toward the positive side of the Y axis. Fig.32 and Fig.34 As shown, the horizontal portion 47 p is provided on the negative side in the Z axis relative to the end portion of the third plate portion 44 d of the terminal 42 which is located on the negative side in the Y axis.

[0182] When the end of the third plate portion 44d of the terminal 42 has been displaced by a predetermined amount toward the negative side of the Z axis, the horizontal portion 47p is adapted to contact the end of the third plate portion 44d of the terminal 42 located on the negative side of the Y axis. Thus, the displacement amount of the end of the third plate portion 44d on the negative side of the Y axis can be limited.

[0183] As described above, the insertion portion 47d is used to insert the terminal 22 into the body 47a. Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the insertion portion 47d is formed by the first opening 47j of the body 47a, the cutout portion 471 of the body 47a, and the cutout portion 47o of the protrusion 47b.

[0184] like Figure 39 to Figure 41 As shown, the fixing portion 48 has a shape substantially the same as the fixing portion 23j of the housing 23 of the second embodiment, for example, protruding from the accommodating portion 47 located on the negative side of the X-axis toward the negative side of the X-axis. The fixing portion 48 has a through hole 48a formed therein. Fig.32 As shown, the collar 50 is disposed in the through hole 48 a , and the collar 50 is adapted to pass through a bolt 49 for fixing the terminal block 41 to an electronic component.

[0185] Next, the assembly process of the terminal block 41 of this embodiment is described. First, the terminal 42 is inserted into the body 47a from the first opening 47j of the body 47a at the insertion portion 47d of the housing 43 toward the negative side of the Y axis.

[0186] Then, the shaft portion 45a of the first connection portion 45 of the terminal 42 passes through the cutout portion 471 of the body 47a and through the cutout portion 47o of the protrusion 47b at the insertion portion 47d of the housing 43. In addition, the shaft portion 45a of the first connection portion 45 of the terminal 42 passes through the through hole 47k of the body 47a and through the through hole 47n of the protrusion 47b.

[0187] At this time, viewed from the Z-axis direction, the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45 of the terminal 42, the first through hole 44h of the terminal 42, the through hole 47k of the body 47a, and the through hole 47n of the protrusion 47b are arranged approximately concentrically.

[0188] At the same time, the end of the second plate portion 44b of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the Y axis is placed on the surface of the bottom 47i of the body 47a located on the positive side of the Z axis. At this time, the gap in the X-axis direction between the first side wall portion 47e and the second side wall portion 47f of the body 47a of the housing 43 is approximately equal to the width dimension in the X-axis direction from the end of each wide width portion 44k on the positive side of the X axis of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the X axis to the end of each wide width portion 44k on the negative side of the X axis of the terminal 42 located on the negative side of the X axis.

[0189] Therefore, the end of the second plate portion 44b of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the Y axis is sandwiched and held between the first side wall portion 47e and the second side wall portion 47f of the body 47a of the housing 43. This allows the terminal 42 to be confined in the housing 43. Thus, the assembly of the terminal block 41 is completed.

[0190] Next, the process of fixing the terminal block 41 of this embodiment to the electronic component and electrically connecting the first conductive member 27 and the second conductive member 28 to the terminal block 41 is described. First, the collar 50 is set in the through hole 48a of the fixing portion 48 of the housing 43. Then, the bolt 49 is passed through the collar 50 and screwed into the internal thread portion of the electronic component to fix the terminal block 41 to the electronic component.

[0191] Next, for example, while the first conductive component 27 passes through the through hole 47k of the main body 47a of the shell 43, the through hole 47n of the protrusion 47b, and the first through hole 44h of the terminal 42 from the positive side of the Z axis, the shaft portion 45a of the first connecting portion 45 of the terminal 42 is screwed into the internal thread portion 27a of the first conductive component 27, so that the first conductive component 27 is electrically connected to the terminal block 41.

[0192] At this time, the first conductive member 27 is surrounded by the protrusion 47b of the accommodation portion 47, and when the first conductive member 27 swings, the first conductive member 27 contacts the protrusion 47b. Thus, the swing of the first conductive member 27 can be restricted.

[0193] At the same time, for example, the shaft portion 46a of the second connecting portion 46 passes through the through hole 28a of the second conductive member 28 via the first opening 47j of the main body 47a at the insertion portion 47d of the shell 43, so that the second conductive member 28 is configured from the positive side of the Z axis at the end of the second plate portion 44b of the terminal 42 located on the positive side of the Y axis.

[0194] Then, the nut 51 is screwed into the shaft portion 46a of the second connection portion 46 to electrically connect the second conductive member 28 to the terminal block 41. Thus, the terminal block 41 can be fixed to the electronic component, and the first conductive member 27 and the second conductive member 28 can be electrically connected to the terminal block 41.

[0195] This terminal block 41 is also configured, like the terminal block 1 described in Embodiment 1, so that the terminal body 44 can be deformed in all directions including the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, so that the position displacement of the first conductive member 27 relative to the terminal block 41 can be absorbed. Therefore, the terminal block 41 of this embodiment can make the first conductive member 27 well connected to the terminal block 41.

[0196] In addition, the shape of the terminal body 44 of the present embodiment is also such that the first plate portion 44a, the second plate portion 44b and the third plate portion 44d are arranged to overlap in the Z-axis direction so that they are substantially parallel to each other. Therefore, the deformation of the plate portions of the terminal body 44 can offset each other, so that the third plate portion 44d can be kept substantially parallel to the XY plane. Therefore, the first conductive member 27 can be easily connected to the first connecting portion 45 of the terminal 42. That is, the connectivity between the terminal block 41 of the present embodiment and the first conductive member 27 is also high.

[0197] In addition, since the terminal body 44 of this embodiment is also bent in such a manner that the third plate portion 44d is located inside, it is possible to absorb the positional deviation of the first conductive member 27 relative to the terminal block 41 while avoiding an increase in the size of the terminal body 44, thereby avoiding an increase in the size of the terminal block 41. This helps to reduce the size of the terminal block 41.

[0198] In particular, since the protrusion 47b is formed on the housing 43 of the terminal block 41 of the present embodiment, when the first conductive member 27 swings, the first conductive member 27 can contact the protrusion 47b, thereby limiting the swing of the first conductive member 27. In addition, since the horizontal portion 47p is formed on the reinforcing rib 47c of the housing 43 of the terminal block 41, when the end portion of the third plate portion 44d of the terminal 42 located on the negative side of the Y axis is displaced to the negative side of the Z axis by a predetermined displacement amount, the horizontal portion 47p is allowed to contact the end portion of the third plate portion 44d located on the negative side of the Y axis, thereby limiting the displacement amount of the end portion of the third plate portion 44d located on the negative side of the Y axis.

[0199] In addition, the insertion portion 47d is formed in the housing 43 of the terminal block 41 of this embodiment, so the terminal 42 can be easily inserted into the receiving portion 47 of the housing 43 toward the negative side of the Y axis. This makes it easy to assemble the terminal block 41.

[0200] The present invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and can be appropriately changed within the gist of the present invention.

[0201] The number of each terminal 4, 22 and 42 in the terminal blocks 1, 21 and 41 of the above-mentioned embodiment is only exemplary, and therefore can be appropriately changed. In this case, the shape of the housing can be appropriately changed so that the terminal 4, 22 or 42 can be accommodated therein according to the number of the terminal 4, 22 or 42.

[0202] The terminal block 1, 21 or 41 of each of the above embodiments is fixed to an electronic component, but the type of the fixing component used to fix such a terminal block is not limited to a specific one. In addition, the number, arrangement, shape, etc. of the fixing parts of the housing are not particularly limited as long as the terminal block can be fixed to the fixing component. In addition, the device for fixing the terminal block to the fixing component is not limited to a specific one.

[0203] The first conductive member 2 or 27 and the second conductive member 3 or 28 electrically connected to the terminal block 1, 21 or 41 of each of the aforementioned embodiments are merely exemplary. Therefore, as long as the shape of such conductive members enables them to be electrically connected to the terminal 4, 22 or 42, it is acceptable. In addition, the means for electrically connecting the first conductive member and the second conductive member to the terminal is not limited to a specific means.

[0204] The shape of the terminal body 6, 24 or 44 of the terminal block 1, 21 or 41 of each of the aforementioned embodiments and the shape of the housing 5, 23 or 43 are merely exemplary. In short, as long as a terminal bent into a flat spiral shape is provided to allow the third plate portion, the second coupling portion, the first plate portion, the first coupling portion and the second plate portion to be continuous, and to allow the first conductive member to be electrically connected to the third plate portion via a through hole formed in the first plate portion, it is acceptable.

[0205] Those skilled in the art can combine the first to third embodiments as needed.

[0206] From the disclosure of this description, it is obvious that the embodiments of the present invention can be changed in many ways. Such changes should not be regarded as departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such modifications obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included in the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A terminal block, characterized in that: The terminal block comprises: terminal; and A housing adapted to accommodate the terminal, wherein The terminal comprises: a terminal body, the terminal body being a bent body of conductive material, a first connection portion, disposed at one end of the terminal body, the first connection portion being adapted to be electrically connected to a first conductive member, and A second connecting portion is provided at the other end of the terminal body, and the second connecting portion is suitable for being electrically connected to a second conductive member. The terminal body comprises: The first plate portion is parallel to a plane perpendicular to the first axis, a second plate portion parallel to the plane perpendicular to the first axis, the second plate portion being arranged to overlap with the first plate portion in a direction along the first axis, a first coupling portion connecting one end of the first plate portion along a direction of a second axis perpendicular to the first axis to one end of the second plate portion along the direction of the second axis, a third plate portion, disposed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, wherein the third plate portion is parallel to a plane perpendicular to the first axis, a second coupling portion connecting the other end of the first plate portion in the direction of the second axis to one end of the third plate portion in the direction of the second axis, and a through hole formed in the first plate portion, and The first connecting portion is disposed on the third plate portion, and the first conductive component is electrically connected to the third plate portion through the through hole.

2. The terminal block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The terminal body includes a slit portion formed in one or more of the third plate portion, the second coupling portion, the first plate portion, the first coupling portion, and the second plate portion.

3. The terminal block according to claim 2, characterized in that: The terminal body includes a slit portion continuously formed in two or more of the third plate portion, the second coupling portion, the first plate portion, the first coupling portion, and the second plate portion.

4. The terminal block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The terminal body includes a through hole formed in the second plate portion.

5. The terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first plate portion is formed such that a width dimension of the first plate portion in a direction along a third axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis decreases in a direction toward the other end portion of the first plate portion along the second axis.

6. The terminal block according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A connecting member electrically connected to the first conductive member is fixed to the third plate portion as the first connecting portion, and The connection member protrudes from the through hole of the first plate portion toward a side opposite to the third plate portion.

7. The terminal block according to claim 6, characterized in that: The housing comprises: a body adapted to accommodate the terminal, the body comprising a through hole adapted to pass the first conductive member, and A protrusion protrudes from the body in the direction of the first axis to restrict the swing of the first conductive member in a state where the first conductive member passes through the through hole in the body.

8. The terminal block according to claim 7, characterized in that: The housing includes an insertion portion formed in the body, the insertion portion being adapted to insert the terminal into the body while allowing the connection member to pass through a through hole in the body and through an interior of the protrusion in a direction of the second axis.

9. The terminal block according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The housing includes a reinforcing rib adapted to pass through a slit portion continuously formed in the first plate portion, the first coupling portion, and the second plate portion of the terminal body, The reinforcing rib includes a horizontal portion, and the horizontal portion is suitable for being arranged on the other end of the third plate portion along the second axis direction and located on one side of the second plate portion. The other end portion of the third plate portion along the second axis direction comes into contact with the horizontal portion when displaced by a predetermined amount toward the second plate portion.

10. A method for manufacturing a terminal body used for the terminal block according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The method comprises: A long strip material made of a conductive material and in an axial direction is bent into a flat spiral shape to form the third plate portion, the second coupling portion, the first plate portion, the first coupling portion, and the second plate portion of the terminal body.

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