Connector, connector pair, and method for manufacturing connector

Abstract

The connector comprises a connector body and a plurality of terminals attached to the connector body. Wherein the plurality of terminals form a terminal row extending in the length direction of the connector, one terminal in a pair of adjacent terminals has an end face facing the outer side of the connector in the width direction and a lower surface adjacent to the end face, the lower surface is used for being welded to a substrate, and the end face is provided with an end face facing the outer side of the connector in the width direction. And the other terminal of the pair of adjacent terminals has an end face facing the outer side of the connector in the width direction, and the end face is higher than the lower surface of the terminal in position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This International PCT application claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. JP 2022-100903, filed on Jun. 23, 2022. The above-cited patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a connector, a connector pair, and a method of manufacturing the connector. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, connectors such as board-to-board connectors have been used to electrically connect a pair of parallel circuit substrates to each other. These types of connectors are attached to opposing surfaces of a pair of circuit substrates and fit together to ensure electrical continuity (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a conventional connector.

[0006] In the figure, 801 represents a first connector mounted on the surface of a first circuit substrate (not shown), and 901 represents a second connector mounted on the surface of a second circuit substrate (not shown). As shown in the figure, the first connector 801 and the second connector 901 move toward each other in a facing position and then fit together.

[0007] The second connector 901 includes a second base 911 and a plurality of second terminals 961 arranged in two rows on the left and right sides and mounted on the second base 911. The second terminals 961 in the right row and the second terminals 961 in the left row have the same shape and face each other. In addition, the substrate connection portion 962 of each second terminal 961 protrudes outward in the width direction of the second base 911.

[0008] On the other hand, the first connector 801 includes a first base 811 and a first terminal row 860A and a second terminal row 860B arranged along the left and right long sides of the first base 811. In addition, in the first terminal row 860A and the second terminal row 860B, the first terminals 861a of type a and the first terminals 861b of type b are arranged alternately. In addition, the first terminals 861a of type a and the first terminals 861b of type b are arranged side by side in the width direction.

[0009] The substrate connection portion 862a of the type a first terminal 861a protrudes outward in the width direction of the first base 811. On the other hand, the substrate connection portion 862b of the type b first terminal 861b protrudes inward in the width direction of the first base 811 and is shorter than the substrate connection portion 862a of the type a first terminal 861a. Furthermore, the substrate connection portion 862b of the type b first terminal 861b is exposed in a window 813 formed in the widthwise inner portion of the first base 811 and is mounted on the surface of the second circuit substrate.

[0010] In this way, in the first connector 801 which is smaller than the second connector 901, the first terminals 861a of type a and the first terminals 861b of type b are arranged alternately, so that the substrate connection portion 862a and the substrate connection portion 862b are staggered in the length direction, which increases the spacing between them so that solder bridges do not occur, the welding operation can be easily carried out, and good electrical characteristics can be ensured.

[0011] Prior art literature: Patent literature: Patent literature 1: Japanese unexamined patent publication 2016-152083 Summary of the Invention

[0012] However, in the conventional connector, the first terminal 861a of type a and the first terminal 861b of type b are formed integrally with the first base 811. Thus, in a miniaturized situation, the interval between the first terminal column 860A and the second terminal column 860B is narrow and the spacing between the first terminal 861a of type a and the first terminal 861b of type b of the first terminal column 860A and the second terminal column 860B is narrow, which makes manufacturing difficult.

[0013] Typically, in connectors, the terminals are integrated with the protrusions of the base using a molding method called overmolding or insert molding. As a result, the spacing between the protrusions forming the respective terminal rows is narrow and the spacing between the terminals in each terminal row is narrow, making it difficult to correctly arrange multiple terminals at positions corresponding to a pair of protrusions in the molding mold of the base.

[0014] The purpose here is to provide a connector, a connector pair and a method for manufacturing a connector, which solves the conventional problems mentioned above, can narrow the spacing between terminals in the terminal column and the interval between terminal columns, will not cause solder bridges, is easy to manufacture, can be miniaturized even if multi-polarized, and has high reliability.

[0015] Therefore, the connector includes a connector body and a plurality of terminals attached to the connector body; wherein the plurality of terminals form a terminal column extending in the length direction of the connector, one terminal in an adjacent pair of terminals has an end face facing the outside in the width direction of the connector and a lower surface adjacent to the end face, the lower surface being used for soldering to the substrate, and the other terminal in the adjacent pair of terminals has an end face facing the outside in the width direction of the connector, which end face is positioned higher than the lower surface of the one terminal.

[0016] In another connector, the plurality of terminals have substrate connection portions, there are a plurality of terminal columns, and among the end faces of the plurality of substrate connection portions, end faces facing adjacent terminal columns are plated, while end faces not facing adjacent terminal columns are not plated.

[0017] In still another connector, the plurality of terminals are integrally held in the connector body, and the plurality of terminal rows are integrally connected.

[0018] In still another connector, in the terminal row, positions of outer side surfaces of adjacent terminals are shifted relative to each other in a width direction of the connector.

[0019] In yet another connector, the terminal has two contact surfaces, and in the terminal row, positions of the two contact surfaces of adjacent terminals are shifted relative to each other in the width direction of the connector.

[0020] In yet another connector, the terminal has a substrate connection portion, and of the two contact surfaces, a width dimension of the contact surface on the proximal side of the substrate connection portion is greater than a width dimension of the contact surface on the distal side of the substrate connection portion.

[0021] The connector pair includes a connector according to the present disclosure and a mating connector that is mated with the connector.

[0022] A method for manufacturing a connector, wherein the connector has a connector body and a plurality of terminals attached to the connector body, the plurality of terminals forming a terminal column extending in a length direction, the method for manufacturing the connector comprising: a process of integrally forming adjacent terminals in the terminal column with the connector body in a state of being connected by overlapping different carriers, wherein the substrate connection portion of one of the adjacent terminals is connected to one of the terminal carriers of the different terminal carriers, the non-substrate connection portion of the other terminal of the adjacent terminals is connected to the other terminal carrier of the different terminal carriers, the terminal carrier of the one terminal is overlapped on the lower side of the other terminal carrier, and the terminals are integrally formed with the connector body; and a process of cutting the terminals integrally formed with the connector body off the carrier.

[0023] The present disclosure can narrow the pitch between terminals in a terminal array, narrow the interval between terminal arrays, prevent the occurrence of solder bridges, facilitate manufacturing, achieve miniaturization even with multi-polarization, and improve reliability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first connector according to this embodiment;

[0025] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the first connector according to this embodiment;

[0026] FIG3 is a three-side view of the first connector according to this embodiment, wherein: Figure 3A It is a top view. Figure 3B is a side view, and Figure 3C It is a bottom view;

[0027] FIG4 is a side view of the first connector according to this embodiment, wherein: Figure 4A is the overall view, and Figure 4B yes Figure 4A An enlarged view of part B;

[0028] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the main part of the first connector of this embodiment, and is Figure 1 An enlarged view of part A in FIG;

[0029] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a first process of manufacturing the first connector according to the present embodiment;

[0030] FIG7 is a perspective view showing a first carrier tape connected to a first terminal of the present embodiment, wherein: Figure 7A is a diagram showing the carrier tape connected to the first terminal corresponding to the first terminal column, and Figure 7B is a diagram showing the carrier tape connected to the first terminals corresponding to the second terminal row;

[0031] FIG8 is a perspective view showing a second carrier tape connected to the first terminal of this embodiment, wherein: Figure 8A is a diagram showing the carrier tape connected to the first terminal corresponding to the first terminal column, and Figure 8B is a diagram showing the carrier tape connected to the first terminals corresponding to the second terminal row;

[0032] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a second process of manufacturing the first connector according to the present embodiment;

[0033] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a second connector according to this embodiment;

[0034] Figure 11 is an exploded view of the second connector according to this embodiment;

[0035] FIG12 is a first two-side view of the second connector according to this embodiment, wherein: Figure 12A is a top view, and Figure 12B It is a bottom view;

[0036] FIG13 is a second two-side view of the second connector according to this embodiment, wherein: Figure 13A is a side view, and Figure 13B It is the front view;

[0037] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a fitted state of the first connector and the second connector as viewed from the first connector side according to the present embodiment;

[0038] Figure 15 is a plan view showing a fitted state of the first connector and the second connector as viewed from the first connector side according to the present embodiment;

[0039] FIG16 is a cross-sectional view of the first connector and the second connector in the fitted state according to the present embodiment, wherein: Figure 16A It is along Figure 15 The cross-sectional view is made by the LL line, and Figure 16B It is along Figure 15 A cross-sectional view made along the MM line; and

[0040] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a conventional connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first connector according to this embodiment. Figure 2 FIG3 is an exploded view of the first connector according to the present embodiment. FIG4 is a side view of the first connector according to the present embodiment. Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the main part of the first connector of this embodiment, and is Figure 1 3. (a) is a top view, (b) is a side view, and (c) is a bottom view. In Figure 4, (a) is an overall view, and (b) is an enlarged view of part B of (a).

[0043] In the figure, reference numeral 10 denotes a first connector, one of a pair of substrate-to-substrate connectors, serving as two connectors in this embodiment. First connector 10 is a surface-mount connector mounted on the surface of a first substrate (not shown), serving as a mounting element, and mates with a second connector 101, serving as a mating connector. Furthermore, second connector 101 is the other of the pair of substrate-to-substrate connectors and is a surface-mount connector mounted on the surface of a second substrate (not shown), serving as a mounting element.

[0044] The first connector 10 and the second connector 101 according to this embodiment are preferably used to electrically connect a first substrate and a second substrate, but can also be used to electrically connect other components. For example, the first substrate and the second substrate can each be a printed circuit substrate, a flexible flat cable (FFC), a flexible circuit substrate (FPC), etc. used in electronic devices, but can be any type of substrate.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, expressions indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and rear, used to describe the configuration and operation of the various parts of the first connector 10 and the second connector 101, are relative rather than absolute, and are appropriate when the various parts of the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 are in the postures shown in the figures. However, when their postures change, these directions should be interpreted differently depending on the change in posture.

[0046] The first connector 10 is integrally formed from an insulating material such as synthetic resin and includes a first base 11, which serves as the connector body and is flat and generally square-shaped in plan view. The first base 11 includes a pair of protrusions 12 extending in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the first connector 10, and a pair of first protruding ends 16 connected to and engaging the longitudinal ends of the protrusions 12. The pair of protrusions 12 face each other and are parallel to each other, serving as terminal retaining portions for retaining the first terminals 61. Furthermore, the pair of first protruding ends 16 face each other and are parallel to each other. The longitudinal ends of the protrusions 12 are connected to the first protruding ends 16 via extension ends 14 extending in a direction oblique to the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the first connector 10. Furthermore, the space defined by the pair of protrusions 12, the pair of first protruding ends 16, and the extension ends 14 forms an elongated groove 13 extending in the longitudinal direction of the first connector 10. The groove 13 is a through-hole that opens on the top and bottom surfaces of the first connector 10.

[0047] Note that, in this embodiment, the recess 13 is described as a single through-hole, but it may be a hole having a bottom on the base plate. Alternatively, the base plate may have multiple through-holes. In this case, the plurality of through-holes may be set as needed to visually confirm that the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61 is positioned in the recess 13. This allows the connection between the tail portion 62 and the base plate, such as by soldering, and the appearance thereof to be easily confirmed from the outside.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for ease of description, the first connector 10 is described as having a pair of protrusions 12 (i.e., two protrusions arranged in parallel). However, three or more protrusions 12 may be arranged in parallel. Furthermore, the first base 11 does not necessarily need to be generally square-shaped but may have any shape as long as both ends in the longitudinal direction can be joined by the first protruding end portions 16.

[0049] The first base 11 is formed integrally with the first terminal 61 as a terminal and the first reinforcing fitting 51 as a reinforcing fitting by a molding method called over molding, outsert molding, or insert molding (hereinafter referred to as "insert molding"). In other words, the first base 11 is formed by filling the cavity of the mold in which the first terminal 61 and the first reinforcing fitting 51 are pre-set with an insulating material. Therefore, the first terminal 61 and the first reinforcing fitting 51 do not exist and are separated from the first base 11. In other words, Figure 2 The shape of the portion where the first terminal 61 and the first reinforcement member 51 are mounted on the first base 11 does not exist in the state where the first terminal 61 and the first reinforcement member 51 are separated. Figure 2 The illustration is for illustrative purposes only.

[0050] In this embodiment, a plurality of first terminals 61 are attached to the plurality of protrusions 12 to form a plurality of terminal arrays 60 extending in the longitudinal direction of the first connector 10. In the first base 11, the plurality of protrusions 12 are integrally connected to the first protruding end portion 16, so that the plurality of terminal arrays 60 are also held by the plurality of protrusions 12 of the first base 11 and can be said to be integrally connected.

[0051] In addition, the plurality of first terminals 61 include first terminals 61A of a first type of terminal and first terminals 61B of a second type of terminal. In addition, in each terminal column 60, the first terminals 61A and the first terminals 61B are arranged alternately. In addition, one terminal column 60 and an adjacent terminal column 60 are arranged so that the first terminals 61A and the first terminals 61B are arranged side by side in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the first connector 10. It is noted that in the example shown in the figure, in each terminal column 60, eight first terminals 61A and first terminals 61B are arranged at a predetermined spacing (for example, about 0.18 mm), but the number and spacing of the first terminals 61 in each terminal column 60 can be appropriately changed.

[0052] The protrusion 12 includes: a mating surface 12a, which is an upper surface facing upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis); and an outer side surface 12b and an inner side surface 12c, which are connected to the left and right sides of the mating surface 12a. The outer side surface 12b is a surface facing the outer side of the width direction of the first base 11, and the inner side surface 12c is a surface facing the inner side of the width direction of the first base 11 toward the groove portion 13. In addition, the protrusion 12 includes a terminal partition 12d between adjacent first terminals 61 in the terminal column 60 (that is, between adjacent first terminals 61A and first terminals 61B). The terminal partition 12d is a portion that maintains insulation between adjacent first terminals 61 in the terminal column 60.

[0053] Furthermore, a bottom plate portion 17 is formed at the lower end of the protrusion 12. Bottom plate portion 17 includes a plate-shaped lower plate portion 17a, located below and projecting outward in the width direction of the first base 11 relative to the outer side surface 12b and inward in the width direction of the first base 11 relative to the inner side surface 12c; and a plate-shaped upper plate portion 17b, located above lower plate portion 17a. Both ends of upper plate portion 17b, in the width direction of the first base 11, are located at substantially the same positions as the outer side surface 12b and the inner side surface 12c. The lower surface 17c of bottom plate portion 17 serves as the mounting surface of the first base 11, facing the first substrate.

[0054] The first terminal 61 is an integrally formed element formed by stamping and bending a conductive metal plate. Furthermore, the first terminal 61A, a first-type terminal, includes an outer column portion 63 extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction); a tail portion 62, which serves as a substrate connection portion and protrudes from the lower end of the outer column portion 63 toward the outside in the width direction of the first base 11; an inner column portion 65 extending vertically opposite the outer column portion 63; and a connecting portion 64, which bends and connects the upper end of the inner column portion 65 to the upper end of the outer column portion 63. The outer side surface of the outer column portion 63, located on the outside of the width direction of the first base 11, serves as an outer side surface 63a that contacts the second terminal 161 of the second connector 101, described later. The inner side surface of the inner column portion 65, located on the inside of the width direction of the first base 11, serves as an inner side surface 65a that contacts the second terminal 161 of the second connector 101, described later. An anchor portion 65b, shaped like an anchor, is formed at the lower end of the inner column portion 65 and embedded in the bottom plate portion 17 of the first base 11 to prevent it from being pulled out. Furthermore, an upper end protrusion 64a, which projects inward in the width direction of the first base 11, is formed at the junction of the upper end of the inner column portion 65 and the connecting portion 64. Furthermore, the end surface 62a at the distal end of the tail portion 62 is a cross-sectional surface formed by cutting away from a connecting arm 68a of the terminal carrier 68, described later. Furthermore, the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 is adjacent to the end surface 62a and is connected to the conductive trace of the first substrate. It is also a connection surface that is connected to a connection pad formed on the surface of the first substrate by soldering or the like. Note that the conductive trace is typically a signal line, but may also be a power line.

[0055] Furthermore, the first terminal 61B, which is a second-type terminal, includes an outer column portion 63 extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction); a horizontal portion 66 slightly protruding from the lower end of the outer column portion 63 outward in the width direction of the first base 11; an inner column portion 65 extending in the vertical direction opposite the outer column portion 63; and a connecting portion 64 that bends and connects the upper end of the inner column portion 65 to the upper end of the outer column portion 63. Furthermore, a tail portion 62 protruding inward in the width direction of the first base 11 is connected to the lower end of the inner column portion 65 as a substrate connecting portion.

[0056] Note that horizontal portion 66 has a similar shape to tail portion 62, but is shorter than tail portion 62 and does not function as a substrate connection portion. In other words, horizontal portion 66 can be considered a non-tail portion that does not function as a substrate connection portion. Furthermore, horizontal portion 66 is embedded in bottom plate portion 17 of first base 11 and acts as an anchor to prevent it from being pulled out to a certain extent.

[0057] The outer side surface of the outer column portion 63 on the outside of the first base 11 in the width direction serves as an outer side surface 63a that contacts the second terminals 161 of the second connector 101, described later. The inner side surface of the inner column portion 65 on the inside of the first base 11 in the width direction serves as an inner side surface 65a that contacts the second terminals 161 of the second connector 101, described later.

[0058] Furthermore, an upper end protrusion 64a, which projects outward in the width direction of the first base 11, is formed at the junction of the upper end of the outer column 63 and the connecting portion 64. Furthermore, the end surface 66a at the distal end of the horizontal portion 66 is a cross-section formed by cutting away from a connecting arm 68a of the terminal carrier 68, described later. Furthermore, the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 is connected to the conductive traces of the first substrate and is a connection surface that is connected to connection pads formed on the surface of the first substrate by soldering or the like. Note that the conductive traces are typically signal lines, but may also be power lines.

[0059] Note that, for the first terminal 61A, the width dimension (dimension in the X-axis direction) of the outer side 63a is greater than that of the inner side 65a, while for the first terminal 61B, the width dimension of the inner side 65a is greater than that of the outer side 63a. In other words, for the first terminal 61, the width dimension of the contact surface on the proximal side of the tail portion 62 is greater than the width dimension of the contact surface on the distal side of the tail portion 62.

[0060] As described above, in each terminal row 60, first terminals 61A and first terminals 61B are arranged alternately, or the first terminal row 60 and the adjacent terminal row 60 are arranged so that the first terminals 61A and first terminals 61B are aligned with each other in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the first connector 10. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG3(a), in the lower terminal row 60, first terminal 61A, the first terminal 61 located at the front end (positive end in the X-axis direction), is positioned with its tail 62 protruding outward (toward the positive Y-axis direction), while first terminal 61B, the second first terminal 61 located from the front end, is positioned with its tail 62 protruding inward (toward the negative Y-axis direction). In this manner, because multiple first terminals 61 are mounted on the protrusion 12 in alternating, opposite orientations, the pitch between the tails 62 protruding from both sides of the protrusion 12 is twice the pitch between the first terminals 61. This configuration facilitates the connection of the first terminals to the connection pads of the first substrate, such as by soldering.

[0061] Furthermore, when the first terminals 61 are integrated with the first housing 11, the upper surface of the connecting portion 64 is located substantially flush with the mating surface 12a, which is the upper surface of the protrusion 12. In other words, the upper surface of the connecting portion 64 of each first terminal 61 is substantially flush with the mating surface 12a of the protrusion 12. Furthermore, the outer side surface 63a of each first terminal 61A is located substantially flush with the outer side surface 12b of the protrusion 12. In other words, the outer side surface 63a of each first terminal 61A is substantially flush with the outer side surface 12b of the protrusion 12. Conversely, the outer side surface 63a of the first terminal 61B is located further inward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the outer side surface 63a of the first terminal 61A and the outer side surface 12b of the protrusion 12. In other words, the outer side surface 63a of the first terminal 61B is displaced further inward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the outer side surface 63a of the first terminal 61A and the outer side surface 12b of the protrusion 12. Note that the end surface 66 a of the distal end of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B is located at substantially the same position as the outer side surface 63 a of the first terminal 61A and the outer side surface 12 b of the convex portion 12 .

[0062] Furthermore, the inner side surfaces 65a of the first terminals 61B are located at substantially the same position as the inner side surfaces 12c of the protrusions 12. In other words, the inner side surfaces 65a of each first terminal 61B are substantially flush with the inner side surfaces 12c of the protrusions 12. Conversely, the inner side surfaces 65a of the first terminals 61A are located further outward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the inner side surfaces 65a of the first terminals 61B and the inner side surfaces 12c of the protrusions 12. In other words, the inner side surfaces 65a of the first terminals 61A are displaced further outward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the inner side surfaces 65a of the first terminals 61B and the inner side surfaces 12c of the protrusions 12.

[0063] In this manner, for each terminal row 60 , the outer side surface 63 a and the inner side surface 65 a , which are contact surfaces of the adjacent first terminals 61 , are displaced from each other in the width direction of the first base 11 .

[0064] Note that for each terminal array 60, a terminal partition wall 12d exists between adjacent outer column portions 63, inner column portions 65, and connecting portions 64 of adjacent first terminals 61, and the terminal partition wall 12d is integrated with the outer column portions 63, inner column portions 65, and connecting portions 64. As a result, insulation between adjacent first terminals 61 is reliably maintained while the first terminals 61 are firmly held to the protrusion 12 of the first base 11.

[0065] Furthermore, the tail portion 62 extending from the lower end of the outer column portion 63 of each first terminal 61A protrudes outward in the width direction of the first housing 11 from the side surface of the lower plate portion 17a at the bottom plate portion 17 at the lower end of the protrusion 12. In contrast, the horizontal portion 66 extending from the lower end of the outer column portion 63 of each first terminal 61B does not protrude from the side surface of the upper plate portion 17b at the bottom plate portion 17 at the lower end of the protrusion 12. In other words, the end surface 62a at the distal end of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A is located further outward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the side surface of the bottom plate portion 17, while the end surface 66a at the distal end of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B is located further inward in the width direction of the first housing 11 than the side surface of the bottom plate portion 17.

[0066] Furthermore, the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A is located substantially flush with the lower surface 17c of the bottom plate portion 17. Conversely, the lower surface 66b of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B is located higher than the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A. In other words, the end surface 66a of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B, which faces outward in the width direction of the first housing 11, is located higher than the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A. In this manner, the end surface 66a of the first terminal 61B is located inward in the width direction of the first housing 11 relative to the side surface of the bottom plate portion 17; however, it is located higher than the lower surface 62b of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A. This prevents solder bridges from forming when the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A is connected to the connection pad of the first substrate.

[0067] Note that the lower plate portion 17a of the bottom plate portion 17, located on the outside of the first base 11 in the width direction, includes a tail cover 17a1 that covers at least a portion of the upper surface of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A. This allows the first terminal 61A, including the tail portion 62, to be more securely held to the protrusion 12 of the first base 11. Furthermore, the lower plate portion 17a of the bottom plate portion 17, located on the inside of the first base 11 in the width direction, also includes a tail cover 17a1 that covers at least a portion of the upper surface of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61B. This allows the first terminal 61B, including the tail portion 62, to be more securely held to the protrusion 12 of the first base 11.

[0068] Furthermore, a recessed portion 17a2 corresponding to the lower plate portion 17a of the bottom plate portion 17 on the widthwise outer side of the first base 11 is formed between adjacent tail covering portions 17a1 at a position corresponding to the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B. This recessed portion 17a2 accommodates the connecting arm 68a of the terminal carrier 68 connected to the horizontal portion 66. Furthermore, the upper plate portion 17b of the bottom plate portion 17 on the widthwise outer side of the first base 11 includes a horizontal covering portion 17b1 that covers at least a portion of the upper surface of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B. This allows the first terminal 61B, including the horizontal portion 66, to be more securely held to the protrusion 12 of the first base 11.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first terminal 61 is assumed to have a highly conductive metal, typically gold, nickel, palladium, or the like, used for connectors, plated on its surface to reduce resistance. However, the end face 62a of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A and the end face 66a at the end of the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B are unplated cut surfaces produced by cutting away from the connecting arm 68a of the terminal carrier 68. In contrast, the end face 62a of the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61B is not a cut surface produced by cutting away from the connecting arm 68a of the terminal carrier 68 and is therefore plated. In other words, the end face 62a of the tail portion 62 located facing the adjacent second terminal column 60 is plated, while the end face 62a of the tail portion 62 located facing the second terminal column 60 is not unplated.

[0070] When the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 are mated, the first protruding end portion 16 serves as the insertion projection, inserted into the mating recess 122 of the second protruding end portion 121 of the second connector 101, described later, and integrally mounted thereon with the first reinforcement fitting 51. As described above, both ends of each protrusion 12 are connected to the first protruding end portion 16 via an extension end portion 14 extending in a direction oblique to the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the first connector 10. This allows the width of the first protruding end portion 16 (the dimension in the Y-axis direction) to be set smaller than the width of the first connector 10 (the distance between the outer side surfaces 12b of the left and right protrusions 12). Note that the extension end portion 14 does not necessarily need to be inclined inward and can extend straight.

[0071] The first reinforcing member 51 is an integrally formed member formed from sheet metal by processes such as stamping and bending. It comprises an upper plate 54 extending in the width direction of the first base 11; generally rectangular legs 55 connected to the left and right edges of the upper plate 54 and extending downward; and an end wall outer cladding portion 52 and an end wall inner cladding portion 53 connected to the front and rear edges of the upper plate 54 and extending downward. Note that the tail portion 52a serves as a base plate connection portion connected to the lower end of the end wall outer cladding portion 52. The width of the end wall outer cladding portion 52 is greater than that of the end wall inner cladding portion 53.

[0072] As described above, the first reinforcement fitting 51 is integrated with the first protruding end portion 16. Furthermore, the upper plate 54 is embedded in the upper surface of the first protruding end portion 16. In this state, the upper surface of the upper plate 54 is flush with the upper surface of the first protruding end portion 16 and constitutes more than half of the area of ​​the upper surface of the first protruding end portion 16. Furthermore, the left and right legs 55 are embedded in the left and right outer side surfaces of the first protruding end portion 16. The outer side surfaces of the legs 55 are flush with the outer side surface of the first protruding end portion 16 and constitute more than half of the area of ​​the outer side surface of the first protruding end portion 16. Furthermore, the end wall outer cladding portion 52 and the end wall inner cladding portion 53 are embedded in the outer and inner side surfaces of the first protruding end portion 16. The outer side surfaces of the end wall outer cladding portion 52 and the end wall inner cladding portion 53 are each flush with the outer and inner side surfaces of the first protruding end portion 16 and constitute more than half of the area of ​​the outer and inner side surfaces of the first protruding end portion 16.

[0073] The tail portion 52a is connected to the lower end of the end wall outer covering 52, bends approximately 90 degrees, extends outward in the longitudinal direction of the first base 11, and is connected to a connection pad connected to the conductive trace of the first substrate by welding or the like. The conductive trace is typically a power line, but can also be a signal line. If desired, the lower end of the leg portion 55 can be positioned close to or in contact with the surface of the first substrate. In this case, the lower end of the leg portion 55 is connected to the connection pad of the first substrate by welding or the like, thereby increasing the connection strength between the first reinforcing member 51 and the first substrate.

[0074] A method of manufacturing the first connector 10 configured as described above will now be described.

[0075] Figure 6 FIG7 is a perspective view showing a first step of manufacturing the first connector according to the present embodiment. FIG7 is a perspective view showing a first carrier tape connected to the first terminals of the present embodiment. FIG8 is a perspective view showing a second carrier tape connected to the first terminals of the present embodiment. Figure 9 7 and 8, (a) shows the carrier tape connected to the first terminals corresponding to the first terminal column, while (b) shows the carrier tape connected to the first terminals corresponding to the second terminal column.

[0076] The first terminal 61 is an element formed by bending a metal plate in the thickness direction and is manufactured by performing a process such as stamping and bending on the metal plate. Figure 6As shown in FIG8 , a plurality of first terminals 61 are supplied connected to a flat terminal carrier tape 68 as a carrier tape. In addition, each of the plurality of first terminals 61A as the first type of terminal is connected to a flat carrier tape body 68b of the first terminal carrier tape 68A via an elongated connecting arm 68a at the end of the tail portion 62, as shown in FIG7 , and by cutting off the tail portion 62 from the connecting arm 68a at the cutting portion 68d, it becomes Figure 2 Components shown. FIG7(a) shows the first terminal carrier 68A and the first terminal 61A corresponding to the terminal column 60 on the upper side (negative Y-axis side) of FIG3(a). FIG7(b) shows the first terminal carrier 68A and the first terminal 61A corresponding to the terminal column 60 on the lower side (positive Y-axis side) of FIG3(a). In the example shown in the figure, for the first terminal carrier 68A, each connecting arm 68a includes a bent portion 68c, and the tail portion 62 connected to the connecting arm 68a deviates from the carrier body 68b in the positive or negative X-axis direction and the negative Z-axis direction.

[0077] In addition, each of the plurality of first terminals 61B as the second type of terminals is connected to the flat carrier body 68b of the second terminal carrier 68B via the elongated connecting arm 68a at the end of the tail portion 62, as shown in FIG8, and is separated from the connecting arm 68a by the horizontal portion 66 at the cut portion 68d to form a Figure 2 Components shown. FIG8(a) shows the second terminal carrier 68B and the first terminal 61B corresponding to the terminal array 60 on the upper side (the negative side of the Y axis) of FIG3(a). FIG8(b) shows the second terminal carrier 68B and the first terminal 61B corresponding to the terminal array 60 on the lower side (the positive side of the Y axis) of FIG3(a). In the example shown in the figure, for the second terminal carrier 68B, each connecting arm 68a does not include a bent portion 68c.

[0078] Note that in the example shown in the figure, for the first terminal carrier 68A, the bent portion 68c is formed on the connecting arm 68a and the tail portion 62 deviates from the carrier body 68b, while for the second terminal carrier 68B, the bent portion 68c is not formed on the connecting arm 68a; however, this is not limiting. It is also possible that for the second terminal carrier 68B, the bent portion 68c is formed on the connecting arm 68a and the tail portion 62 deviates from the carrier body 68b, while for the first terminal carrier 68A, the bent portion 68c is not formed on the connecting arm 68a. In addition, if there is a deviation in the relative positions of the connecting arms 68a of the first terminal carrier 68A and the connecting arms 68a of the second terminal carrier 68B, it is possible that the bent portion 68c is not formed on the connecting arms 68a of both the first terminal carrier 68A and the second terminal carrier 68B. However, if the bent portion 68c is not formed on the connecting arm 68a, it becomes difficult to maintain the position accuracy of the first terminal 61 as the first connector 10 is miniaturized, so it is desirable to form a bent portion 68c on the connecting arm 68a of one of the first terminal carrier 68A or the second terminal carrier 68B to provide a deviation in the relative position of the connecting arm 68a.

[0079] Furthermore, in the process of forming the first base 11 integrally by insert molding, the plurality of first terminals 61 are supplied in a state connected to the plurality of terminal carriers 68 and set in a molding die (not shown), as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown. Specifically, the second terminal carrier 68B shown in FIG8(a) is overlapped on the first terminal carrier 68A shown in FIG7(a); and the terminal array 60 on the negative side of the Y-axis in which the first terminals 61A and the first terminals 61B are alternately arranged and positioned is set in the forming mold. In the same manner, the second terminal carrier 68B shown in FIG8(b) is overlapped on the first terminal carrier 68A shown in FIG7(b); and the terminal array 60 on the positive side of the Y-axis in which the first terminals 61A and the first terminals 61B are alternately arranged and positioned is set in the forming mold.

[0080] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, a pair of first reinforcing fittings 51 are also supplied. Note that, like the first terminals 61, each first reinforcing fitting 51 is formed by bending a metal plate in the thickness direction and is manufactured by stamping and bending the metal plate. It is supplied attached to a carrier tape, but for ease of explanation, the carrier tape for the first reinforcing fittings 51 is omitted. Thus, the pair of first reinforcing fittings 51 are positioned at both ends of the first connector 10 in the longitudinal direction and set in the molding die.

[0081] Subsequently, an insulating material such as molten synthetic resin is filled into the cavity of the molding die. In other words, insert molding is performed. Note that the insulating material may be any type of material, but here, since fluidity is important, it is preferable to use liquid crystal polymer (LCP). When the filled insulating material cools and solidifies to form the first base 11, the molding die is opened and the mold is inserted. Figure 6 The semi-finished product of the first connector 10 shown in the state where the first terminals 61 are connected to the terminal carrier tape 68 is removed from the molding die.

[0082] Then, the terminal carrier tape 68 is Figure 6 The semi-finished product of the first connector 10 shown in FIG. 7 is cut off. Specifically, at the cutting portion 68d shown in FIG. 7 , the connecting arm 68a of the first terminal carrier 68A is cut off, thereby separating the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61A from the connecting arm 68a; and at the cutting portion 68d shown in FIG. 8 , the connecting arm 68a of the second terminal carrier 68B is cut off, thereby separating the horizontal portion 66 of the first terminal 61B from the connecting arm 68a. In addition, the carrier tape (not shown) is also cut off from each first reinforcing fitting 51. As a result, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown, the terminal carrier tape 68 and the carrier tape for the first reinforcing member 51 are cut to obtain a completed product of the first connector 10 .

[0083] Next, the configuration of the second connector 101 constituting a connector pair together with the first connector 10 will be described.

[0084] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the second connector according to this embodiment. Figure 11 FIG1 is an exploded view of the second connector according to this embodiment. FIG12 is a first two-side view of the second connector according to this embodiment. FIG13 is a second two-side view of the second connector according to this embodiment. Note that in FIG12, (a) is a top view and (b) is a bottom view; whereas in FIG13, (a) is a side view and (b) is a front view.

[0085] The second connector 101, as a mating connector according to the present embodiment, has a second base 111 integrally formed with an insulating material such as a synthetic resin as a mating connector body. As shown in the figure, the second base 111 has a generally rectangular thick plate shape that is a generally cuboid. In addition, on the side of the second base 111 where the first connector 10 is embedded (i.e., the mating surface 111a side (Z-axis negative direction side)), there is a generally rectangular recess 112 surrounding it, forming the recess 112 that is mated with the first base 11. Inside the recess 112 is a second protrusion 113, which is an island portion that is mated with the groove portion 13 and is formed integrally with the second base 111; in addition, side wall portions 114 extending parallel to the second protrusion 113 on both sides of the second protrusion 113 are formed integrally with the second base 111.

[0086] The second convex portion 113 and the side wall portion 114 protrude upward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from the bottom surface of the concave portion 112 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the second connector 101. As a result, groove portions 112a, which are elongated concave portions extending in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the second connector 101, are formed on both sides of the second convex portion 113 as a portion of the concave portion 112.

[0087] A groove-shaped second terminal receiving cavity 115a is formed on the side surfaces on both sides of the second protrusion 113 and on the inner side surfaces of the sidewall portion 114. Furthermore, a hole-shaped second terminal receiving cavity 115b is formed on the second protrusion 113 and the sidewall portion 114. The second terminal receiving cavity 115a and the second terminal receiving cavity 115b are interconnected and integrated into the bottom surface of the recess portion 112a. Therefore, when collectively described, the second terminal receiving cavity 115a and the second terminal receiving cavity 115b are referred to as the second terminal receiving cavity 115. The second terminal receiving cavities 115 are arranged at a spacing corresponding to the first terminals 61 and in an appropriate number. Furthermore, each second terminal receiving cavity 115 accommodates a second terminal 161 serving as a mating terminal; thus, a plurality of second terminals 161 are arranged side by side in each recess portion 112a at a spacing and number corresponding to the first terminals 61 (16 in the example shown).

[0088] The second terminal 161 is an element integrally formed by stamping a conductive metal plate, and includes: a main body portion 163 extending in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction); a tail portion 162 connected to the lower end (positive end in the Z-axis direction) of the main body portion 163; a proximal connection portion 163b extending from near the lower end of the main body portion 163 in the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the second connector 101; a proximal contact portion 166, as a first contact portion, connected to the end of the proximal connection portion 163b near the lower end and extending in the up-down direction; a distal connection portion 164 extending from the lower end of the proximal contact portion 166 in the width direction of the second connector 101; and a distal contact portion 165 extending upward (negative direction of the Z-axis) from the end of the distal connection portion 164.

[0089] Note that the proximal contact protrusion 166a and the distal contact protrusion 165a may be formed facing each other near the distal end of the proximal contact portion 166 and near the distal end of the distal contact portion 165 as needed. In addition, the body portion 163 is a portion that is pressed into and retained in the second terminal receiving cavity 115b, and an engaging protrusion 163a for biting into the side surface of the second terminal receiving cavity 115b may be formed near the distal end of the body portion 163 as needed.

[0090] In addition, the tail portion 162 is bent and connected to the lower end of the main body portion 163, extends in the width direction of the second base 111, and is connected to a connection pad connected to the conductive trace of the second substrate by welding or the like. Note that the conductive trace is typically a signal line but can also be a power line. In addition, the proximal contact portion 166 and the distal contact portion 165 are portions that contact the first terminal 61 provided on the first connector 10 when the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 are mated. The proximal contact protrusion 166a and the distal contact protrusion 165a contact the inner side surface 65a and the outer side surface 63a serving as the contact surface of the first terminal 61 and can engage with the upper end protrusion 64a as needed.

[0091] The second terminal 161 is inserted into the second terminal receiving cavity 115 from below the second base 111 and mounted in the second base 111. Therefore, the body portion 163 is pressed into and retained in the second terminal receiving cavity 115b, the proximal contact portion 166 and the distal contact portion 165 are exposed in the groove portion 112a, and the lower surface of the tail portion 162 of the second terminal 161 is exposed to the mounting surface 111b, which is the lower surface of the second base 111.

[0092] In addition, the second terminals 161 installed in each groove portion 112a constitute a terminal column extending along each groove portion 112a in the longitudinal direction of the second connector 101, and in each terminal column, adjacent second terminals 161 are arranged in postures opposite to each other with respect to the width direction of the groove portion 112a. Figure 10 to Figure 1In the example shown in FIG3 , among the second terminals 161 mounted in the recess 112a on the positive side of the Y-axis, the second terminal 161 at the leading end (positive end of the X-axis) is positioned with its tail 162 protruding in the negative direction of the Y-axis, while the second terminal 161 positioned next to the leading end has its tail 162 protruding in the positive direction of the Y-axis. In this manner, because the second terminals 161 are mounted side by side in the recess 112a in alternating, opposite directions, the spacing between the tails 162 exposed on the mounting surface 111b on either side of the recess 112a is set to twice the spacing of the second terminals 161. This facilitates connection to the connection pads of the second substrate via soldering or other means. Furthermore, the spacing between the proximal and distal contact portions 166, 165 exposed in the recess 112a is twice the spacing of the second terminals 161.

[0093] In addition, the plurality of second terminals 161 mounted in the respective groove portions 112a are adjacently arranged to face opposite directions in the width direction of the second connector 101. Figure 10 to Figure 1 In the example shown in FIG3 , in both the terminal columns on the positive Y-axis side and the negative Y-axis side, the posture of the second terminal 161 located at the front end (positive X-axis end) is such that the tail 162 protrudes in the negative Y-axis direction, while the posture of the second terminal 161 located second from the front end is such that the tail 62 protrudes in the positive Y-axis direction.

[0094] Furthermore, second protruding ends 121 serve as mating guides at both ends of the second base 111 in the longitudinal direction. A mating recess 122 is formed in each second protruding end 121 as a portion of the recess 112. The mating recess 122 is a generally rectangular recess connecting the longitudinal ends of each recess 112a. Furthermore, when the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 are mated, the first protruding end 16 of the first connector 10 is inserted into the mating recess 122.

[0095] A second reinforcing fitting 151 as a mating reinforcing fitting is attached to the second protruding end portion 121. Note that the second reinforcing fitting 151 is an element that is integrated with the second base 111 during the insert molding process and is therefore not separated from the second base 111. In addition, the portion of the second base 111 to which the second reinforcing fitting 151 is attached does not have a state in which it is separated from the second reinforcing fitting 151. Figure 11 It should be understood that Figure 11 The illustration is for illustrative purposes only.

[0096] The second reinforcing member 151 is an integrally formed element formed from sheet metal by processes such as stamping and bending. It includes: a second body portion 152 extending in the width direction of the second base 111; side covers 153 connected to the left and right ends of the second body portion 152; a pair of left and right tail portions 156 connected to the lower end of the second body portion 152; an end wall cover 157 connected to the upper end of the second body portion 152; a recess cover 155 connected to the end wall cover 157; and a pair of left and right elastic elements. The tail portions 156 extend outward in the longitudinal direction of the second connector 101 and are connected and secured to connection pads (not shown) connected to conductive traces on the second substrate by welding or other means. Note that the conductive traces are typically power lines but may also be signal lines. Furthermore, the lower ends 153c of the side covers 153 can approach or contact the surface of the second substrate as needed. In this case, the lower end 153 c of the side cover portion 153 is connected to the connection pad of the second substrate by welding or the like, thereby increasing the connection strength between the second reinforcing member 151 and the second substrate.

[0097] The upper ends of the side covering portions 153 are connected by a side wall upper covering portion 153b. This side wall upper covering portion 153b is bent at least 90 degrees, and the distal end of the side wall upper covering portion 153b extends obliquely downward into the mating recess 122. Furthermore, a contact protrusion 154a is formed at the upper end (i.e., near the distal end) of the contact arm portion 154, bulging toward the center of the width of the second base 111 and serving as a contact portion. Furthermore, an island end covering portion 155a is connected to the distal end of the recess covering portion 155 at the center of the width of the second connector 101.

[0098] Furthermore, the recess covering portion 155 is housed within the bottom plate opening 128b, which is formed to penetrate the bottom plate 122b of the mating recess 122 in the plate thickness direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the contact arm portion 154 is housed within the bottom plate opening 128b and the side wall recess 128a formed on the inner side surface of the mating recess 122 and continuous with the bottom plate opening 128b. It should be noted that the contact arm portion 154 is not integrated with the second base 111 and is housed within the bottom plate opening 128b and the side wall recess 128a in an elastically deformable state. Therefore, the contact arm portion 154, serving as an elastic element, has a long spring length and can exert a spring force to apply contact pressure to the contact protrusion 154a, thereby reliably retaining the contact protrusion 154a on the first reinforcing fitting 51.

[0099] Furthermore, the island end covering portion 155a covers both ends (i.e., the island ends) of the second protrusion 113, with at least the distal end of the island end covering portion 155a being buried. Therefore, when the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 are mated, the longitudinal ends of the second protrusion 113 will not be damaged even if they come into contact with a portion of the first connector 10.

[0100] Next, the operation of fitting the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 having the above-described configuration together will be described.

[0101] Figure 14 1 is a perspective view showing a fitted state of the first connector and the second connector according to the present embodiment, as viewed from the first connector side. Figure 15 FIG16 is a plan view showing the mating state of the first connector and the second connector according to the present embodiment as viewed from the first connector side. FIG17 is a cross-sectional view of the first connector and the second connector in the mating state according to the present embodiment. Note that in FIG16, (a) is a cross-sectional view of the first connector and the second connector in the mating state. Figure 15 (b) is a cross-sectional view along the LL line, and (b) is a cross-sectional view along the LL line Figure 15 A cross-sectional view made from the MM line.

[0102] The first connector 10 is mounted on the surface of the first substrate, wherein the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61 is connected to a connection pad connected to a conductive trace of the first substrate (not shown) by soldering or the like, and wherein the tail portion 52a of the first reinforcing member 51 is connected to a connection pad connected to a conductive trace of the first substrate by soldering or the like. Note that the conductive trace connected to the connection pad connected to the tail portion 62 of the first terminal 61 is a signal line, while the conductive trace connected to the pad connected to the tail portion 52a of the first reinforcing member 51 is a power line.

[0103] Similarly, the second connector 101 is mounted on the surface of the second substrate, wherein the tail portion 162 of the second terminal 161 is connected to a connection pad connected to a conductive trace of the second substrate (not shown) by soldering, etc., and wherein the tail portion 156 of the second reinforcement member 151 is connected to a connection pad connected to a conductive trace of the second substrate by soldering, etc. Note that the conductive trace connected to the connection pad connected to the tail portion 162 of the second terminal 161 is a signal line, while the conductive trace connected to the pad connected to the tail portion 156 of the second reinforcement member 151 is a power line.

[0104] First, the operator places the mating surface 12a of the convex portion 12, which is the mating surface of the first base 11 of the first connector 10, opposite to the first mating surface 111a of the second base 111 of the second connector 101, so that when the position of the convex portion 12 of the first connector 10 is aligned with the position of the corresponding groove portion 112a of the second connector 101 and when the position of the first protruding end portion 16 of the first connector 10 is aligned with the position of the corresponding mating recess 122 of the second connector 101, the position alignment of the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 is completed.

[0105] In this state, if the first connector 10 and / or the second connector 101 are moved in a direction approaching the other side (i.e., in a fitting direction), the convex portion 12 and the first protruding end portion 16 of the first connector 10 are inserted into the groove portion 112a and the fitting recess 122 of the second connector 101. Figure 14 to Figure 1 As shown in FIG6 , the mating of the first connector 10 and the second connector 101 is completed.

[0106] Furthermore, the first terminal 61 and the second terminal 161 are in a conductive state. Specifically, as shown in FIG16 , the outer column portion 63, the connecting portion 64, and the inner column portion 65 of the first terminal 61 are positioned between the proximal contact portion 166 and the distal contact portion 165 of each second terminal 161. Furthermore, the proximal contact protrusion 166a of the proximal contact portion 166 and the distal contact protrusion 165a of the distal contact portion 165 contact the outer side surface 63a of the outer column portion 63 and the inner side surface 65a of the inner column portion 65, which serve as contact surfaces.

[0107] Here, the distance from the outer side surface 63a to the inner side surface 65a of each first terminal 61 is greater than the distance from the proximal contact protrusion 166a to the distal contact protrusion 165a of the second terminal 161. Consequently, when the outer column 63, connecting portion 64, and inner column 65 of the first terminal 61 respectively enter between the proximal contact portion 166 and the distal contact portion 165 of each second terminal 161, the second terminal 161 elastically deforms, and the distance between the proximal contact protrusion 166a and the distal contact protrusion 165a increases. Consequently, due to the reaction force of the second terminal 161, the proximal contact protrusion 166a and the distal contact protrusion 165a are pressed against the outer side surface 63a and the inner side surface 65a, reliably maintaining contact between the proximal contact protrusion 166a and the distal contact protrusion 165a and the outer side surface 63a and the inner side surface 65a. Consequently, the conductive state between the first terminal 61 and the second terminal 161 is reliably maintained.

[0108] In this manner, according to the present embodiment, the first connector 10 is provided with the first base 11 and the plurality of first terminals 61 attached to the first base 11. Furthermore, the plurality of first terminals 61 form a terminal array 60 extending in the longitudinal direction of the first connector 10, and a first terminal 61A of one of a pair of adjacent first terminals 61 includes an end surface 62a facing outward in the width direction of the first connector 10 and a lower surface 62b adjacent to the end surface 62a, the lower surface 62b being for soldering to the substrate, while a first terminal 61B of the other of the pair of adjacent first terminals 61 includes an end surface 66a facing outward in the width direction of the first connector 10, the end surface 66a being positioned higher than the lower surface 62b of the first terminal 61A.

[0109] As a result, the spacing between the first terminals 61 in the terminal array 60 is narrow, which can narrow the interval between the terminal array 60, prevent solder bridges from occurring, facilitate manufacturing, and even allow miniaturization when there is multi-polarization, and improve the reliability of the first connector 10.

[0110] Furthermore, the first terminal 61 has a tail portion 62, and a plurality of terminal rows 60 are present. The end face 62a of the tail portion 62 is plated in the portion facing the adjacent terminal row 60, while the end face 62a not facing the adjacent terminal row 60 is not plated. Furthermore, the first terminal 61 is integrally held in the first base 11, and the plurality of terminal rows 60 are integrally connected.

[0111] Furthermore, in the terminal array 60, the positions of the outer side surfaces 63a of adjacent first terminals 61 are displaced relative to each other in the width direction of the first connector 10. Furthermore, the first terminals 61 include an outer side surface 63a and an inner side surface 65a as two contact surfaces. Furthermore, in the terminal array 60, the positions of the two contact surfaces of adjacent first terminals 61 are displaced relative to each other in the width direction of the first connector 10. Furthermore, of the two contact surfaces, the width dimension of the contact surface on the proximal side of the tail portion 62 is greater than the width dimension of the contact surface on the distal side of the tail portion 62.

[0112] In addition, in this embodiment, a method for manufacturing a first connector 10 is provided, wherein the method includes a first base 11 and a plurality of first terminals 61 attached to the first base 11, wherein the plurality of first terminals 61 form a terminal array 60 extending in the longitudinal direction of the first connector 10. Furthermore, the method may include: forming adjacent first terminals 61 in the terminal array 60 integrally with the first base 11 in a state where the terminals are connected by overlapping different terminal carriers 68, wherein the tail portion 62 of a first terminal 61A of one of the adjacent first terminals 61 is connected to a first terminal carrier 68A of one of the different terminal carriers 68, the non-tail portion connecting horizontal portion 66 of a first terminal 61B of the other of the adjacent first terminals 61 is connected to a second terminal carrier 68B of the other of the different terminal carriers 68, the first terminal carrier 68A is overlapped on the lower side of the second terminal carrier 68B, and the terminals are integrally formed with the first base 11; and separating the first terminals 61 integrally formed with the first base 11 from the terminal carrier 68.

[0113] Thus, the first connector 10 can be easily manufactured.

[0114] It is noted that the disclosure herein describes features associated with suitable exemplary embodiments. After reading the disclosure herein, those skilled in the art will naturally think of various other embodiments, modifications and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

[0115] The present disclosure is applicable to a connector, a connector pair, and a method of manufacturing a connector.

Claims

1. A connector, (a) comprises a connector body and a plurality of terminals attached to the connector body; in, (b) the plurality of terminals form a terminal row extending in the longitudinal direction of the connector, (c) one of the adjacent pair of terminals has an end surface facing outward in the width direction of the connector and a lower surface adjacent to the end surface, the lower surface being used for soldering to the substrate, and (d) The other terminal of the adjacent pair of terminals has an end surface facing outward in the width direction of the connector, and the end surface is positioned higher than the lower surface of the one terminal.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of terminals have substrate connection portions, There are multiple terminal columns, and Among the end surfaces of the plurality of substrate connection portions, the end surfaces facing the adjacent terminal columns are plated, and the end surfaces not facing the adjacent terminal columns are not plated.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of terminals are integrally held in the connector body and the plurality of terminal rows are integrally connected.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: In the terminal array, positions of outer side surfaces of adjacent terminals are displaced from each other in a width direction of the connector.

5. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal has two contact surfaces, and in the terminal row, positions of the two contact surfaces of adjacent terminals are shifted from each other in the width direction of the connector.

6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein: The terminal has a substrate connection portion, and of the two contact surfaces, a width dimension of a contact surface on a proximal side of the substrate connection portion is larger than a width dimension of a contact surface on a distal side of the substrate connection portion.

7. A connector pair, comprising a connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and a mating connector engaged with the connector.

8. A method for manufacturing a connector, (a) The connector includes a connector body and a plurality of terminals attached to the connector body, the plurality of terminals forming a terminal row extending in a length direction. The manufacturing method of the connector includes: (b) a step of integrally forming adjacent terminals in the terminal row with the connector body in a state where the terminals are connected by overlapping different carrier tapes, The process is to connect the substrate connection portion of one of the adjacent terminals to one of the terminal carriers that are different from each other, connect the non-substrate connection portion of the other of the adjacent terminals to the other of the terminal carriers that are different from each other, overlap the one terminal carrier on the lower side of the other terminal carrier, and form the one terminal carrier integrally with the connector body; and (c) A step of cutting the terminal formed integrally with the connector body from the carrier tape.

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