Substrate connector

Abstract

A substrate connector includes a housing and a terminal, and the terminal includes a terminal body, a coupling portion, and a substrate connecting portion. Further, the coupling portion includes a first coupling portion, and the first coupling portion includes a reinforcing portion whose cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the one direction has a curved portion. Further, the reinforcing portion includes an exposed portion formed from the other end of the first connecting portion to an insertion opening of the insertion space in a state in which the terminal is held by the housing. Further, the reinforcing portion includes an insertion portion continuously provided to the exposed portion and inserted into the insertion space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a substrate connector. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, patent document JP2021-026801A discloses this type of substrate connector. In patent document JP2021-026801A, a substrate connector to be attached to a circuit substrate is disclosed.

[0003] The substrate connector includes a housing, the housing includes a cover portion opened forward and a terminal insertion hole formed in the rear wall of the cover portion. In addition, the substrate connector includes a terminal, the terminal includes a terminal contact portion arranged in the cover portion and an insertion portion inserted in the terminal insertion hole. The terminal also includes: a lead-out portion, which is led out rearward from the terminal insertion hole; a descending portion, which extends obliquely backward and downward from the rear end of the lead-out portion; and a substrate connecting portion, which is formed at the lower end of the descending portion and connected to the circuit substrate.

[0004] Furthermore, the press-fit portion and the second press-fit portion protruding in directions crossing each other are provided on the insertion portion, and the press-fit portion and the second press-fit portion are press-fitted to the inner wall of the terminal insertion hole. In this way, positioning between the terminal and the housing is performed. Summary of the invention

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned prior art, when the terminal is attached to the housing, the lead-out portion, the descending portion and the substrate connecting portion are exposed to the outside of the housing, and the terminal exposed portion including the lead-out portion, the descending portion and the substrate connecting portion is formed into a flat plate shape with a small plate thickness. Therefore, the substrate connecting portion formed at the end of the terminal exposed portion is easy to swing in the up-down direction or the left-right direction. When the substrate connecting portion swings in the up-down direction or the left-right direction, there may be a risk of the position of the substrate connecting portion changing. In this way, in the above-mentioned prior art, it is difficult to improve the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a substrate connector capable of improving the positioning accuracy of a substrate connection portion fixed to a circuit substrate.

[0007] The substrate connector according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a shell, an insertion space formed in the shell and extending in one direction; and a terminal, which is inserted into the insertion space and held by the shell; wherein the terminal comprises: a terminal body, which is inserted into the insertion space; a substrate connecting portion, which is connected to a circuit substrate in a state exposed from the shell; and a connecting portion, which connects the terminal body and the substrate connecting portion to each other, the connecting portion comprising: a first connecting portion, one end of which extends in the one direction and is connected to the terminal body, and the other end of the first connecting portion is extended from the shell The first connection portion is connected to the second connection portion by a second threading device, wherein the first connection portion is connected to the second connection portion by a second threading device, wherein the first connection portion includes a reinforcing portion, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion taken along a plane orthogonal to the one direction has a curved portion, and the reinforcing portion includes: an exposed portion, which forms an insertion opening from the other end of the first connection portion to the insertion space when the terminal is held by the shell; and an insertion portion, which is continuously arranged with the exposed portion and inserted into the insertion space.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a board connector capable of improving the positioning accuracy of a board connection portion fixed to a circuit board. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing one example of a substrate connector according to the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 : is a vertical cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which one example of the substrate connector according to the embodiment is fitted into one example of the mating connector.

[0011] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically showing a state before one example of a terminal according to an embodiment is inserted into a corresponding housing.

[0012] Figure 4 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of one example of a terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0013] Figure 5 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a state before the first modification example of the terminal according to the present embodiment is inserted into a corresponding housing.

[0014] Figure 61 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the first modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of the terminal insertion hole formed in the corresponding housing.

[0015] Figure 7 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the second modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of the terminal insertion hole formed in the corresponding housing.

[0016] Figure 8 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the third modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of the terminal insertion hole formed in the corresponding housing.

[0017] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a fourth modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0018] Fig.10 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a fifth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0019] Fig.11 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a sixth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0020] Fig.12 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a seventh modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0021] Fig.13 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of an eighth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0022] Fig.14 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a ninth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0023] Fig.15 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a tenth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0024] Fig.16 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the eleventh modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of the terminal insertion hole formed in the corresponding housing.

[0025] Fig.171 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a twelfth modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0026] Fig.18 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a thirteenth modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0027] Fig.19 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a fourteenth modified example of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing.

[0028] Fig. 20 1 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the horizontal cross-sectional shape of a fifteenth modification of the terminal according to the embodiment and the shape of a terminal insertion hole formed in a corresponding housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] The substrate connector according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for ease of explanation and may differ from the actual ratios.

[0031] Below, the direction in which the terminal moves relative to the housing when the terminal is inserted into the housing is defined as the X direction (front-back direction: one direction) for description. In addition, below, the direction in which the plurality of terminals are arranged when the terminals are held by the housing is defined as the Y direction (width direction) for description. In addition, the up-down direction of each component is defined in a state where a circuit substrate with a substrate connector attached is arranged so that the substrate connector is positioned on the upper side and the circuit substrate is positioned on the lower side for description.

[0032] Furthermore, the substrate connector is described by defining the side of the substrate connector that faces the mating connector when mated into the mating connector as the front side (one side) in the front-to-back direction (one direction). Furthermore, the mating connector is described by defining the side of the mating connector that faces the substrate connector when mated into the substrate connector as the front side (one side) in the front-to-back direction (one direction).

[0033] In addition, the following embodiments and their modifications include similar constituent elements. Therefore, in the following description, similar components are denoted by common reference symbols, and their repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0034] The substrate connector 1 according to the present embodiment is attached to an FPC substrate 2 as a flexible circuit substrate, and is configured to be fitted into a mating connector 3 in a state of being attached to the FPC substrate 2. The substrate connector 1 includes: a housing 1a in which a plurality of insertion spaces are formed that penetrate therethrough in an X direction (front-rear direction: one direction); and terminals that are inserted into the insertion spaces and held by the housing 1a.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the housing 1 a is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in the Y direction (width direction) and has rigidity. For example, the housing 1 a can be formed of an insulating resin material.

[0036] In addition, at two positions including the upper part and the lower part of the housing 1a, a plurality of insertion spaces are formed to be arranged at a predetermined interval in the Y direction (width direction). In this way, in the present embodiment, two upper and lower insertion spaces are formed in the housing 1a, i.e., an upper insertion space S1 located on the upper side of the housing 1a and a lower insertion space S2 located on the lower side of the housing 1a.

[0037] In addition, the upper terminal 5 is inserted into the upper insertion space S1 from the upper insertion opening S1a opened in the rear surface of the housing 1a, and the lower terminal 6 is inserted into the lower insertion space S2 from the lower insertion opening S2a. Note that the front opening of the upper insertion space S1 corresponds to the upper introduction opening S1b, into which the terminal body 81 of the mating upper terminal 8 described later is introduced. Similarly, the front opening of the lower insertion space S2 corresponds to the lower introduction opening S2b, into which the terminal body 91 of the mating lower terminal 9 described later is introduced.

[0038] In this way, in the present embodiment, the upper terminal 5 is inserted into the upper insertion space S1, the lower terminal 6 is inserted into the lower insertion space S2, and then each terminal is held by the shell 1a. Thus, the substrate connector 1 is formed. In addition, in a state where the terminals (upper terminal 5, lower terminal 6) are held by the shell 1a, the shell 1a and the terminals are fixed to the FPC substrate 2. In this way, the substrate connector 1 is attached to the FPC substrate 2. It should be noted that, for example, the fixing tool assembled on the shell 1a can be fixed to the FPC substrate 2 by welding, etc. to perform the fixing of the shell 1a to the FPC substrate 2.

[0039] The terminals (upper terminals 5, lower terminals 6) include: terminal bodies 51, 61, which are inserted into the insertion spaces (upper insertion space S1, lower insertion space S2); and substrate connecting portions 53, 63, which are connected to the FPC substrate (circuit substrate) 2 in a state exposed from the housing 1a. In addition, the terminals (upper terminals 5, lower terminals 6) include connecting portions 52, 62 that connect the terminal bodies 51, 61 and the substrate connecting portions 53, 63 to each other.

[0040] For example, a metal material having a flat plate shape is subjected to a stamping process so that the outer shape of the material is a predetermined shape, and the processed product obtained after the stamping process is appropriately subjected to plastic processing such as bending. In this way, terminals (upper terminal 5, lower terminal 6) can be formed.

[0041] Furthermore, the terminal body 51, 61 includes a cylindrical box portion 511, 611 having a space formed therein and a neck portion 512, 612 formed between the box portion 511, 611 and the coupling portion 52, 62. Furthermore, in the space of the box portion 511, 611, a contact portion 511a, 611a is formed.

[0042] In addition, if Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the connecting portion 52, 62 includes a first connecting portion 521, 621, one end 521a, 621a of the first connecting portion 521, 621 extends along the X direction (one direction) and is connected to the terminal body 51, 61, and the other end 521b, 621b is exposed from the housing 1a. In addition, the connecting portion 52, 62 includes a second connecting portion 522, 622, which extends in the Z direction (a direction intersecting the X direction as a direction) and is connected to the substrate connecting portion 53, 63. In addition, the connecting portions 52 and 62 include a third connecting portion 523, 623 that connects the first connecting portion 521, 621 and the second connecting portion 522, 622 to each other.

[0043] Note that in the present embodiment, the portions of the coupling portions 52 , 62 and the substrate connecting portions 53 , 63 exposed from the housing 1 a (terminal exposed portions) are formed to have a crank-like shape, and the substrate connecting portions 53 , 63 are formed at the distal ends of the terminal exposed portions.

[0044] When the board connector 1 is attached to the FPC board 2, the board connection parts 53, 63 are fixed to a conductor pattern (not shown) formed on the FPC board 2 by soldering or the like. Thus, each terminal of the board connector 1 is electrically connected to the conductor pattern of the FPC board 2.

[0045] Furthermore, the board connector 1 to which the FPC board 2 is attached is fitted into the mating connector 3 , so the terminals (upper terminals 5 , lower terminals 6 ) are electrically connected to the mating terminals (mating upper terminals 8 , mating lower terminals 9 ).

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, the mating connector 3 includes a mating housing 3a, and a mating space S3 is formed in the mating housing 3a. In the mating space S3, the substrate connector 1 to which the FPC substrate 2 is attached is inserted.

[0047] Note that the lock lever 3b is formed at the upper portion of the counterpart housing 3a, and the lock lever 3b is locked with the lock portion 1b formed at the upper portion of the housing 1a. Thus, the housing 1a and the counterpart housing 3a are locked to each other in a mating state.

[0048] Note that the counterpart housing 3a is also formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in the Y direction (width direction) and has rigidity. The counterpart housing 3a can also be formed using an insulating resin material.

[0049] In addition, in the counterpart housing 3a, two upper and lower insertion spaces are similarly formed, in other words, an upper insertion space S4 located on the upper side of the counterpart housing 3a and a lower insertion space S5 located on the lower side of the counterpart housing 3a. The upper insertion space S4 and the lower insertion space S5 are formed at positions corresponding to the upper insertion space S1 and the lower insertion space S2 of the housing 1a, respectively.

[0050] Furthermore, the mating upper terminal 8 is inserted into the upper insertion space S4 from an upper insertion opening S4a opened in the rear surface of the mating housing 3a, and the mating lower terminal 9 is inserted into the lower insertion space S5 from a lower insertion opening S5a.

[0051] In this way, in the present embodiment, the mating upper terminal 8 is inserted into the upper insertion space S4, the mating lower terminal 9 is inserted into the lower insertion space S5, and then each terminal is held by the mating housing 3a. Thus, the mating connector 3 is formed. In addition, in a state where the terminals (mating upper terminal 8, mating lower terminal 9) are held by the mating housing 3a, the mating housing 3a and the terminals are fixed to the printed circuit substrate 4. In this way, the mating connector 3 is attached to the printed circuit substrate 4. Note that, for example, the fixing tool assembled to the mating housing 3a can be fixed to the printed circuit substrate 4 by welding or the like.

[0052] The mating terminals (upper terminals 8, lower terminals 9) include terminal bodies 81, 91 inserted into the insertion spaces (upper insertion space S4, lower insertion space S5), and substrate connecting portions 83, 93 connected to the printed circuit board 4 in a state exposed from the mating housing 3a. In addition, the mating terminals (upper terminals 8, lower terminals 9) include connecting portions 82, 92 connecting the terminal bodies 81, 91 and the substrate connecting portions 83, 93 to each other.

[0053] For example, a metal material having a flat plate shape is subjected to a stamping process so that the outer shape of the material is a predetermined shape, and the processed product obtained after the stamping process is appropriately subjected to plastic processing such as bending. In this way, a mating terminal (upper terminal 8, lower terminal 9) can also be formed.

[0054] Furthermore, the terminal bodies 81 , 91 include tabs 811 , 911 , and mating contact portions 811 a , 911 a that come into contact with the contact portions 511 a , 611 a in the mating state between the substrate connector 1 and the mating connector 3 are formed at the tabs 811 , 911 .

[0055] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the connecting portion 82, 92 includes a first connecting portion 821, 921, one end of which extends in the X direction (one direction) and is connected to the terminal body 81, 91, and the other end is exposed from the mating housing 3a. In addition, the connecting portion 82, 92 includes a second connecting portion 822, 922, which extends in the Z direction (a direction intersecting the X direction as one direction) and is connected to the substrate connecting portion 83, 93. In addition, the connecting portion 82, 92 includes a third connecting portion 823, 923 that connects the first connecting portion 821, 921 and the second connecting portion 822, 922 to each other.

[0056] Note that in the present embodiment, the portions of the coupling portions 82, 92 and the board connection portions 83, 93 exposed from the mating housing 3a (terminal exposed portions) are also formed in a crank-like shape, and the board connection portions 83, 93 are formed at the distal ends of the terminal exposed portions.

[0057] When the mating connector 3 is attached to the printed circuit board 4, the board connection parts 83, 93 are fixed to a conductor pattern (not shown) formed on the printed circuit board 4 by soldering or the like. Thus, each terminal of the mating connector 3 is electrically connected to the conductor pattern of the printed circuit board 4.

[0058] Here, in the present embodiment, the positioning accuracy of the board connection portion 53 fixed to the FPC board (circuit board) 2 can be further improved.

[0059] Specifically, the first connection portion 521 includes a reinforcing portion 5211 having a curved portion 7 in a cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction).

[0060] In addition, the reinforcing portion 5211 includes an exposed portion 52111 that forms an insertion opening S1a from the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521 to the insertion space S1 when the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is held by the housing 1a. In addition, the reinforcing portion 5211 includes an insertion portion 52112 that is continuously provided to the exposed portion 52111 and inserted into the insertion space S1.

[0061] In this way, in the present embodiment, the first coupling portion 521 includes the reinforcing portion 5211, and the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) has the curved portion 7. Thus, compared with a terminal having a rectangular cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction), the secondary moment of area increases, and thus the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is difficult to move.

[0062] In addition, when the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is held by the housing 1a, a reinforcing portion 5211 is formed from the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521 to the inside of the insertion space S1. In other words, the reinforcing portion 5211 whose cross-sectional shape has a curved portion 7 is formed not only on the outside of the housing 1a, but also in the insertion space S1. Thus, the reinforcing portion 5211 can be supported by the housing 1a, and thus the entire portion of the upper terminal (terminal) 5 protruding from the housing 1a is difficult to move. Thus, the substrate connecting portion 53 formed at the end of the upper terminal (terminal) 5 can be more reliably prevented from swinging in the up-and-down direction or the left-and-right direction, and the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion 53 can be further improved.

[0063] In addition, in this embodiment, the bending portion 7 includes a bending portion 71. Specifically, Figure 4 As shown, the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed so that the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) is a substantially L-shaped shape including two straight line portions 73 (horizontal straight line portion 731 and vertical straight line portion 732) and a bent portion 71.

[0064] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the reinforcing portion 5211 having a substantially L-shaped cross-sectional shape is formed from one end 521a to the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521. Therefore, in the present embodiment, one end 5211a of the reinforcing portion 5211 and one end 521a of the first connecting portion 521 substantially match each other, and the other end 5211b of the reinforcing portion 5211 and the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521 substantially match each other. In other words, the first connecting portion 521 has a uniform cross-sectional shape (substantially L-shaped) from one end 521a to the other end 521b.

[0065] In this way, when the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed so that the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) includes the bent portion 71 , the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion 53 can be improved with a simpler configuration.

[0066] In addition, the L-shaped shape is a shape that can be formed by a single bending process, has good bending workability during manufacturing, and is not easily broken. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0067] In addition, when the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a substantially L-shaped shape, the interval in the vertical direction and the interval between the terminals can be reduced. In addition, the mold life can be extended.

[0068] Note that the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) can be formed into various shapes. Figures 5 to 20 A modified example of the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is described. However, Figures 5 to 20 The shapes shown in are also merely examples, and other shapes may be employed.

[0069] The cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Figure 5 and Figure 6 The shape shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0070] Here, in Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the bent portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a substantially U-shape (semicircular shape) including one curved portion 72.

[0071] In addition, Figure 5 and Figure 6In the embodiment, the width (length in the Y direction) of the reinforcing portion 5211 is greater than the width of the terminal body 51 , and thus an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed in the upper insertion space S1 .

[0072] Thereby, the upper terminal (terminal) 5 held by the housing 1a can be more reliably prevented from rotating within the housing 1a, and the positioning accuracy of the board connection portion 53 attached to the FPC board (circuit board) 2 can be further improved.

[0073] This U-shape is a shape that has good bending workability and is not prone to wrinkling during manufacturing. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0074] Furthermore, by forming the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 into a substantially U-shape, it is possible to extend the life of the die.

[0075] Notice, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown in FIG. 5 can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first coupling portion 521 .

[0076] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Figure 7 The shape shown. Figure 7 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0077] Here, in Figure 7 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a substantially I-shaped shape including one curved portion 72 (stacked structure).

[0078] This I-shaped shape is a shape that can be formed by a single bending process and is not easily broken during manufacture. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0079] Furthermore, when the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a substantially I-shaped shape, the interval in the vertical direction and the interval between the terminals can be reduced. Furthermore, the mold life can be extended.

[0080] Notice, Figure 7 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0081] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Figure 8 The shape shown. Figure 8In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0082] Here, in Figure 8 In the illustrated reinforcement portion 5211 , the curved portion 7 includes a curved portion 72 . Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a substantially C-shape including one curved portion 72 .

[0083] In addition, Figure 8 In the embodiment, the width (length in the Y direction) of the reinforcing portion 5211 is greater than the width of the terminal body 51 , and thus an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed in the upper insertion space S1 .

[0084] This C-shaped shape is a shape that has good bending workability during manufacturing and is not prone to wrinkling. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0085] Furthermore, by forming the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 into a substantially C-shape, it is possible to extend the life of the mold.

[0086] Notice, Figure 8 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0087] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig. 9 The shape shown. Fig. 9 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0088] Here, in Fig. 9 In the illustrated reinforcing portion 5211 , the curved portion 7 includes a curved portion 72 . Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a substantially O-shaped shape including one curved portion 72 .

[0089] In addition, Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the width (length in the Y direction) of the reinforcing portion 5211 is greater than the width of the terminal body 51 , and thus an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed in the upper insertion space S1 .

[0090] For example, this O-shaped shape can be formed by bending a metal plate into a ring shape. In addition, the shape is not easy to break during manufacturing. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0091] In addition, when the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a substantially O-shaped shape, the stability in the up-down direction and the stability in the left-right direction can be enhanced. In addition, the spacing in the vertical direction and the spacing between the terminals can be reduced. In addition, the mold life can be extended.

[0092] Notice, Fig. 9 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0093] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.10 The shape shown. Fig.10 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0094] Here, in Fig.10 In the reinforcement 5211 shown, the bending portion 7 includes a bending portion 71. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 5211 is formed into a square U shape (bent U shape) including three straight portions 73 (two horizontal straight portions 731 and one vertical straight portion 732) and two bending portions 71.

[0095] This shape can enhance the stability in the left-right direction and reduce the horizontal spacing.

[0096] Notice, Fig.10 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0097] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.11 The shape shown. Fig.11 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0098] Here, in Fig.11 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a bent portion 71. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a quadrilateral shape including four straight portions 73 (two horizontal straight portions 731 and two vertical straight portions 732) and three bent portions 71.

[0099] This shape can also enhance the stability in the left-right direction. In addition, the spacing in the horizontal direction can be reduced.

[0100] Notice, Fig.11The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0101] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.12 The shape shown. Fig.12 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0102] Here, in Fig.12 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a substantially S-shaped shape including one straight portion 73 (horizontal straight portion 731) and two curved portions 72.

[0103] In addition, Fig.12 In the embodiment, the width (length in the Y direction) of the reinforcing portion 5211 is greater than the width of the terminal body 51 , and thus an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed in the upper insertion space S1 .

[0104] This S-shaped shape is a shape that has good bending workability and is not easy to wrinkle during manufacturing, and is not easy to break. Therefore, this shape can be easily manufactured.

[0105] In addition, when the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a substantially S-shaped shape, the stability in the left-right direction can be enhanced. In addition, because this shape is difficult to twist against the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed. In addition, the mold life can be extended.

[0106] Notice, Fig.12 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0107] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.13 The shape shown. Fig.13 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0108] Here, in Fig.13 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the bending portion 7 includes a bending portion 71. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a crank-like shape including one straight portion 73 (horizontal straight portion 731) and two bending portions 71.

[0109] In addition, Fig.13In the embodiment, the width (length in the Y direction) of the reinforcing portion 5211 is greater than the width of the terminal body 51 , and thus an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed in the upper insertion space S1 .

[0110] Furthermore, when the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed into a crank-like shape, the stability in the left-right direction can be enhanced. Furthermore, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed.

[0111] Notice, Fig.13 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0112] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.14 The shape shown. Fig.14 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0113] Here, in Fig.14 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a bent portion 71 and a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a shape including two straight portions 73 (two horizontal straight portions 731), two bent portions 71 and one curved portion 72 (a shape obtained by bending the end of the U-shape outward).

[0114] This shape can enhance the stability in the up-down direction and the left-right direction. In addition, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed.

[0115] Notice, Fig.14 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0116] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.15 The shape shown. Fig.15 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0117] Here, in Fig.15 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a bent portion 71 and a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a shape including three curved portions 72 and two bent portions 71 (substantially a W-shape).

[0118] This shape can enhance the stability in the up-down direction and the left-right direction. In addition, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed.

[0119] Notice, Fig.15 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0120] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.16 The shape shown. Fig.16 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0121] Here, in Fig.16 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the curved portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a shape including three curved portions 72 (substantially a wave-like shape).

[0122] This shape can enhance the stability in the up-down direction and the left-right direction. In addition, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed.

[0123] Notice, Fig.16 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0124] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.17 The shape shown. Fig.17 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0125] Here, in Fig.17 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the bending portion 7 includes a bending portion 71. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a shape including four straight line portions 73 (two horizontal straight line portions 731 and two inclined straight line portions) and three bending portions 71 (a shape obtained by bending the end of the V-shape outward).

[0126] This shape can enhance the stability in the up-down direction and the left-right direction. In addition, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed.

[0127] Notice, Fig.17The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0128] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.18 The shape shown. Fig.18 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0129] Here, in Fig.18 In the reinforcement 5211 shown, the bent portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 5211 is formed into a shape including three straight portions 73 (three horizontal straight portions 731) and two curved portions 72 (a flat C-shape: a double stack structure).

[0130] With this shape, the pitch in the vertical direction and the pitch between the terminals can be reduced. In addition, the mold life can be extended.

[0131] Notice, Fig.18 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown in FIG. 5 can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first coupling portion 521 .

[0132] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig.19 The shape shown. Fig.19 In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0133] Here, in Fig.19 In the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the bent portion 7 includes a curved portion 72. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 is formed into a shape including three straight portions 73 (three horizontal straight portions 731) and two curved portions 72 (a flat S-shaped shape: a triple stacked structure).

[0134] With this shape, the interval in the vertical direction and the interval between the terminals can be reduced.

[0135] Notice, Fig.19 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0136] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion 5211 may be Fig. 20 The shape shown. Fig. 20In the case of the reinforcement portion 5211 shown, the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane (YZ plane) orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) also includes the bent portion 7.

[0137] Here, in Fig. 20 In the reinforcement 5211 shown, the bending portion 7 includes a bending portion 71. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 5211 is formed into a shape (Z-shape) including three straight portions 73 (two horizontal straight portions 731 and one inclined straight portion) and two bending portions 71.

[0138] This shape can enhance the stability in the left-right direction. In addition, since this shape is difficult to twist with respect to the housing 1a, the movement of the terminal can be more reliably suppressed. In addition, the spacing in the horizontal direction can be reduced.

[0139] Notice, Fig. 20 The reinforcement portion 5211 shown can also have a uniform cross-sectional shape from one end 521 a to the other end 521 b of the first connection portion 521 .

[0140] [Actions and Effects]

[0141] The characteristic configuration of the substrate connector shown in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modified examples and the effects produced thereby are described below.

[0142] The substrate connector 1 shown in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modified example includes a housing 1a, in which an insertion space (upper insertion space S1, lower insertion space S2) is formed that penetrates in the X direction (one direction). In addition, the substrate connector 1 includes terminals (upper terminal 5, lower terminal 6) inserted into the insertion space (upper insertion space S1, lower insertion space S2) and held by the housing 1a.

[0143] In addition, the terminal (upper terminal 5, lower terminal 6) includes: a terminal body 51, 61, which is inserted into the insertion space (upper insertion space S1, lower insertion space S2); and a substrate connection portion 53, 63, which is attached to the FPC substrate (circuit substrate) 2 in a state exposed from the housing 1a. In addition, the terminal (upper terminal 5, lower terminal 6) includes a connecting portion 52, 62 that connects the terminal body 51, 61 and the substrate connection portion 53, 63 to each other.

[0144] In addition, the connecting portion 52, 62 includes a first connecting portion 521, 621, which has one end 521a, 621a extending in the X direction (one direction) and connected to the terminal body 51, 61 and the other end 521b, 621b exposed from the housing 1a. In addition, the connecting portion 52, 62 includes a second connecting portion 522, 622, which extends in the Z direction (a direction intersecting the X direction as one direction) and is connected to the substrate connecting portion 53, 63. In addition, the connecting portions 52 and 62 include a third connecting portion 523, 623 that connects the first connecting portion 521, 621 and the second connecting portion 522, 622 to each other.

[0145] Here, the first connection portion 521 includes a reinforcing portion 5211 having a curved portion 7 in a cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction).

[0146] The reinforcing portion 5211 includes an exposed portion 52111, which forms an insertion opening S1a from the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521 to the insertion space S1 when the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is held by the housing 1a. In addition, the reinforcing portion 5211 includes an insertion portion 52112, which is continuously provided to the exposed portion 52111 and inserted into the insertion space S1.

[0147] In this manner, in the substrate connector 1 shown in the above-described embodiment and its modified example, the first connecting portion 521 includes the reinforcing portion 5211 whose cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) has the bent portion 7. Thus, compared with a terminal having a rectangular cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction), the secondary moment of area is increased, and thus the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is difficult to move.

[0148] In addition, while the upper terminal (terminal) 5 is held by the housing 1a, the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed from the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521 to the inside of the insertion space S1. In other words, the reinforcing portion 5211 having a curved portion 7 in a cross-sectional shape is formed not only outside the housing 1a but also inside the insertion space S1. Thus, the reinforcing portion 5211 can be supported by the housing 1a, and thus the entire portion of the upper terminal (terminal) 5 protruding from the housing 1a is difficult to move. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the substrate connecting portion 53 formed at the end of the upper terminal (terminal) 5 from swinging in the up-and-down direction or the left-and-right direction, and the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion 53 can be further improved.

[0149] In this manner, with the board connector 1 shown in the above-described embodiment and its modified example, it is possible to further improve the positioning accuracy of the board connection portion 53 attached to the FPC board (circuit board) 2 .

[0150] Furthermore, the bent portion 7 may include a bent portion 71 .

[0151] In this way, when the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed so that the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) includes the bent portion 71 , the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion 53 can be improved with a simpler configuration.

[0152] In addition, the bending portion 7 may include a curved portion 72 .

[0153] In this way, when the reinforcing portion 5211 is formed so that the cross-sectional shape taken along a plane orthogonal to the X direction (one direction) includes the curved portion 72, it is also possible to increase the sectional secondary moment of the upper terminal (terminal) 5 with a simpler structure. Thus, the positioning accuracy of the substrate connecting portion 53 can be more easily improved.

[0154] In addition, the insertion space S1 may include an expansion space S1 c having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement part 5211 .

[0155] Thus, the upper terminal (terminal) 5 held by the housing 1a can be more reliably prevented from rotating in the housing 1a. Therefore, the positioning accuracy of the board connection portion 53 attached to the FPC board (circuit board) 2 can be further improved.

[0156] [other]

[0157] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made within the gist of the present embodiment.

[0158] For example, the structures shown in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modified examples can be appropriately combined with each other.

[0159] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and its modified examples, the substrate connector 1 is attached to the FPC substrate 2. The substrate connector 1 may also be attached to a circuit substrate having rigidity, such as a printed circuit substrate.

[0160] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and its modified examples, the terminal (upper terminal 5: female terminal) including the box portion 511 is exemplified. However, the present disclosure is applicable to various types of terminals, such as male terminals.

[0161] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modification, the reinforcement part 5211 is provided only in the upper terminal 5. However, the reinforcement part may be provided to both the upper terminal 5 and the lower terminal 6, or the reinforcement part may be provided only to the lower terminal 6.

[0162] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modified example, the terminals (upper terminal 5 and lower terminal 6) are inserted into the two insertion spaces S1 and S2 in the housing 1a as an example. However, the present disclosure is applicable to a substrate connector in which only one insertion space is formed. In addition, the present disclosure is also applicable to a substrate connector in which more than three insertion spaces are formed. In this case, the present disclosure can be applied to all terminals, or the present disclosure can be applied to only some of the terminals. In addition, when the present invention is applied to only some of the terminals, the present disclosure is preferably applied to the upper terminal away from the circuit substrate to which the substrate connection portion is connected.

[0163] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment and its modified example, the reinforcement portion 5211 is provided from one end 521a to the other end 521b of the first connecting portion 521. However, it is not necessary to provide the reinforcement portion 5211 from one end 521a to the other end 521b. It is only necessary that one end of the reinforcement portion 5211 is positioned in the insertion space in a state where the terminal is held by the housing 1a. Therefore, it is not necessary to form the reinforcement portion up to the one end 521a of the first connecting portion 521.

[0164] Furthermore, the specifications (shape, size, arrangement, etc.) of the housing, terminals, and other details may be changed appropriately.

[0165] Although specific embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A substrate connector, comprising: A housing, wherein an insertion space is formed in the housing and penetrates in one direction; as well as a terminal inserted into the insertion space and held by the housing, Wherein, the terminal comprises: a terminal body, the terminal body being inserted into the insertion space; a substrate connection portion connected to a circuit substrate while being exposed from the housing; and a connecting portion connecting the terminal body and the substrate connecting portion to each other, The connecting portion comprises: a first connecting portion, one end of which extends in the one direction and is connected to the terminal body, and the other end of which is exposed from the housing; a second connecting portion extending in a direction intersecting the one direction and connected to the substrate connecting portion; and a third connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion to each other, The first connecting portion includes a reinforcing portion, a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing portion taken along a plane orthogonal to the one direction having a curved portion, and The reinforcement part comprises: an exposed portion that forms an insertion opening from the other end of the first coupling portion to the insertion space in a state where the terminal is held by the housing; and An insertion portion is provided continuously with the exposed portion and is inserted into the insertion space.

2. The substrate connector according to claim 1, wherein: The curved portion includes a bent portion.

3. The substrate connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The bent portion includes a curved portion.

4. The substrate connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The insertion space includes an expansion space having a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement portion.

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