Connector

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a connector capable of preventing a lock for holding the connector in a fitted state from being accidentally released. The first connector (10A) has a restricting portion (26) and a first fitting lock portion (27) formed continuously from the restricting portion (26). The restricting portion (26) elastically deforms in a direction in which the first connector (10A) and the second connector (10B) come into contact with the one surface (P1) of the panel (P) during the fitting process of the first connector (10A) and the second connector (10B). The second connector (10B) has: a pressing part (73) that presses the restricting part (26) in the direction in which the restricting part (26) comes into contact with the one surface (P1) of the panel (P) during the fitting process; and an elastically deformable lock arm (67) that is disposed separately from the pressing part (73). The lock arm (67) has a second fitting lock part (69) that can be engaged with the first fitting lock part (27).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The connector disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a first connector housing and a second connector housing that can be mated with each other. The first connector housing is held on a panel before the two connector housings are mated. An arm portion extending in a cantilevered manner along the mating direction of the two connector housings is formed on the first connector housing. A locking portion and a protrusion portion are formed at the top end of the arm portion.

[0003] During the mating process of the two connector housings, the locking portion steps over the rib formed on the second connector housing, and the arm portion is elastically deformed. As a result, the protrusion is in contact with one side of the panel, thereby limiting the first connector housing from falling off the panel. Then, the locking portion passes over the rib, and the arm portion is elastically restored, thereby locking the locking portion and the rib, and the two connector housings remain in a mating state. Patent documents 2 to 4 also disclose such a locking structure of a connector positioned on a panel. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-16198 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-305695 Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-78102 Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-283977 Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] In the case of Patent Document 1, the rib must lock the same locking portion after pressing the locking portion, and there is a situation where the degree of freedom of shape is low. In this regard, since the locking portion also has a shape corresponding to the shape of the rib, it is difficult to stably maintain the locking (engagement locking) of the locking portion and the rib.

[0006] Here, an object of the present invention is to provide a connector that can stably maintain a mating lock. Solutions to Solve Problems

[0007] The connector of the present invention comprises a first connector and a second connector that is engaged with the first connector from one side of a panel, the first connector having a limiting portion and a first engaging locking portion formed continuously from the limiting portion, the limiting portion being elastically deformed in a direction of contact with the one side during the engaging process of the first connector and the second connector, the second connector having a pressing portion and an elastically deformable locking arm separately arranged with the pressing portion, the pressing portion pressing the limiting portion in a direction of contact with the one side during the engaging process, and the locking arm having a second engaging locking portion that can be locked with the first engaging locking portion. Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a connector capable of stably maintaining a mating lock. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment except for the first terminal fitting and the second terminal fitting. Figure 2 This is a front view of the first connector housing. Figure 3 It is a partially enlarged top view of the first connector housing. Figure 4 It is a front view of the second connector housing. Figure 5 It is a top view of the second connector housing. Figure 6 A partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing a state in which the receiving portion and the releasing portion are arranged to face each other before the first connector and the second connector are mated. Figure 7 This is a side view showing a state at the start of fitting of the first connector and the second connector. Figure 8 It is a plan view showing a state at the start of fitting of the first connector and the second connector. Fig. 9 It is a side view showing a state of the first connector and the second connector in the process of fitting together. Fig.10 It is a partially enlarged side sectional view showing a state in which, during the mating process between the first connector and the second connector, the receiving portion is pressed by the releasing portion to release the engagement between the first locking portion and the panel. Fig.11 It is a top cross-sectional view showing a state in which, during the mating process of the first connector and the second connector, the pressed portion is pressed by the pressing portion, the extending portion is elastically deformed, and the restricting body portion and one surface of the panel are arranged to face each other so as to be in contact with each other. Fig.12 It is a side view showing a state where the first connector and the second connector are fitted together. Fig.13 It is a plan view showing a state where the first connector and the second connector are fitted together. Fig.14 It is a partially enlarged top cross-sectional view showing a state in which the first fitting lock portion and the second fitting lock portion are locked when the first connector and the second connector are in the fitted state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] [Description of Embodiments of the Invention] First, embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of examples. The connector of the present invention, (1) A first connector and a second connector that engages with the first connector from one side of a panel, the first connector having a limiting portion and a first engaging locking portion formed continuously from the limiting portion, the limiting portion being elastically deformed in a direction of contact with the one side during the engagement process of the first connector and the second connector, the second connector having a pressing portion and an elastically deformable locking arm separately arranged from the pressing portion, the pressing portion pressing the limiting portion in a direction of contact with the one side during the engagement process, and the locking arm having a second engaging locking portion that can be locked with the first engaging locking portion.

[0011] During the mating process of the first connector and the second connector, the limiting portion is pressed by the pressing portion and configured to contact one side of the panel, thereby limiting the first connector from falling off the panel. Thus, the first connector and the second connector can be mated. When the pressing of the pressing portion is released and the limiting portion is displaced in the direction of elastic recovery, the first mating locking portion continuous from the limiting portion is configured to be locked with the second mating locking portion of the locking arm, and the first connector and the second connector are maintained in a mating state. Here, the second mating locking portion is configured separately from the locking arm, so it can be independent of the shape of the locking arm. As a result, the second mating locking portion can be formed into a shape that can stably maintain the locking with the first mating locking portion. Moreover, since the locking arm is a shape that can be elastically deformed, the locking arm can be elastically deformed according to maintenance and other conditions, and the locking of the first mating locking portion and the second mating locking portion is released, so that the first connector and the second connector in the mating state are separated.

[0012] (2) In the connector described in (1) above, preferably, the locking arm is in a cantilevered shape extending from the other side of the panel to the one side, the second engaging locking portion is arranged in the middle part of the extension direction of the locking arm, and the free end of the locking arm is arranged in a manner facing the one side.

[0013] When the first connector and the second connector in the mating state are to be separated, the free end of the locking arm can be pressed to elastically deform the locking arm, thereby releasing the locking of the first mating locking portion and the second mating locking portion. In particular, since the free end of the locking arm is arranged to face one side of the panel, the pressing operation of the free end can be performed from one side without any hindrance.

[0014] (3) In the connector described in (1) or (2) above, it is preferred that the limiting portions are arranged in pairs in the first connector at intervals in a direction intersecting the mating direction of the first connector and the second connector, and the first mating locking portion is shaped like a bridge mounted on the pair of limiting portions.

[0015] Since the first fitting lock portion is shaped to bridge the paired restricting portions, it is possible to ensure a predetermined rigidity and to more stably maintain the locking with the second fitting lock portion.

[0016] (4) In the connector described in any one of (1) to (3) above, preferably, the first fitting lock portion and the second fitting lock portion are arranged in a non-contact state with each other during the fitting process.

[0017] According to the configuration of (4) above, during the mating process of the first connector and the second connector, no contact resistance is generated between the first mating lock portion and the second mating lock portion, so that the operating force when the connectors are mated can be reduced.

[0018] [Details of Embodiments of the Invention] Specific examples of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the examples, but is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0019] <Implementation Method 1> like Figure 1 As shown, the connector 10 of the first embodiment is a connector positioned on the panel P, and includes a first connector 10A and a second connector 10B that can be mated with each other. The first connector 10A is a male connector, and before the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are mated, it is kept in a standby state on the panel P. The first connector 10A has a first connector housing 11 and a first terminal part 12 (see Fig.11 ). The second connector 10B is a female connector and is held on the panel P when the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are in a mating state. The second connector 10B includes a second connector housing 13 and a second terminal part 14 (see Fig.11) and the wire sheath 15. The panel P is, for example, a vehicle door panel (not shown), and the surface facing the door side (vehicle outer side), that is, one side in the plate thickness direction, is referred to as one surface P1, and the surface facing the vehicle body side (vehicle inner side), that is, the other side in the plate thickness direction, is referred to as the other surface P2. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the panel P has a through hole P3 extending from one surface P1 to the other surface P2. The first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are respectively held on the panel P in a state of being inserted into the through hole P3. In the following description, regarding the front-to-back direction, the side where the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are engaged with each other is referred to as the front side. The up-down direction is Figure 1 The vertical direction is used as a reference. Unless otherwise specified, the vertical direction is synonymous with the height direction and is indicated by the reference symbol X in the figure. The left-right direction is a direction orthogonal to both the front-back direction and the vertical direction. Unless otherwise specified, the left-right direction is synonymous with the width direction and is indicated by the reference symbol Y in the figure. The references of these directions are not necessarily consistent with the references of the directions when the connector 10 is mounted on a vehicle, etc., which is not shown in the figure.

[0020] In addition, in the following description, the side of the connector 10 facing the center in the left-right direction is referred to as the left-right inner side, and the side opposite thereto away from the center and facing at least one of the left-right directions is referred to as the left-right outer side. Similarly, the side of the connector 10 facing the center in the up-down direction is referred to as the up-down inner side, and the side opposite thereto away from the center and facing at least one of the up-down directions is referred to as the up-down outer side. In addition, the front-to-back middle portion is the portion other than the two end portions in the front-to-back direction, and is not limited to the center in the front-to-back direction. Similarly, the left-to-right middle portion is the portion other than the two end portions in the left-to-right direction, and is not limited to the center in the left-to-right direction, and the up-down middle portion is the portion other than the two end portions in the up-down direction, and is not limited to the center in the up-down direction.

[0021] (1st connector 10A) The first connector housing 11 is made of synthetic resin. Figures 1 to 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first connector housing 11 is generally long in the vertical direction. The first connector housing 11 includes a terminal receiving portion 16 and a cylindrical cover portion 17 protruding forward from the terminal receiving portion 16. Fig.11 As shown, the terminal receiving portion 16 has a plurality of first cavities 18. The first terminal parts 12 are inserted into and locked in each of the first cavities 18 from the rear.

[0022] The first terminal part 12 is made of conductive metal, such as Fig.11 As shown, the first terminal part 12 is connected to the terminal end of the electric wire W1. The first terminal part 12 is a male terminal part, and has a protruding piece 19 protruding forward. The protruding piece 19 is arranged to protrude toward the inner side of the cover part 17.

[0023] like Figure 2As shown, the cover portion 17 has a pair of side walls 21 facing each other in the left-right direction and a pair of end walls 22 facing each other in the up-down direction. The height dimension of each side wall 21 is greater than the width dimension of each end wall 22.

[0024] like Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, one side wall 21 ( Figure 1 and Figure 7 A pair of opposing walls 23 are formed on the outer surface of the side wall 21 (outside the paper surface). The opposing walls 23 are opposed in the up-down direction and are arranged at the upper and lower middle parts of the outer surface of one side wall 21. In addition, one side wall 21 has a covering wall 24 that connects the left and right outer ends of each opposing wall 23 to each other. The front end of the covering wall 24 is connected to the first flange portion 25 that surrounds the outer peripheral side of the cover portion 17. The front surface of the first flange portion 25 is a surface along the radial direction of the cover portion 17, and is arranged opposite to the other surface P2 of the panel P so as to be in contact.

[0025] like Figure 7 As shown, a restriction portion 26 and a first fitting lock portion 27 that can restrict vibration in the up-down direction (X direction) are formed on the outer surface side (including a position away from the outer surface) of one side wall 21 . The restricting portions 26 are arranged in pairs on the outer surface side of one side wall 21 at intervals in the vertical direction. Fig.11 As shown, each limiting portion 26 includes a fulcrum portion 28 located at the rear end, an extension portion 29 extending forward from the fulcrum portion 28, a pressed portion 31 protruding from the front end side of the extension portion 29 to the left and right inner sides, and a limiting main body portion 32 protruding from the front end side of the extension portion 29 to the left and right outer sides. The fulcrum portion 28, the extension portion 29, the pressed portion 31, and the limiting main body portion 32 are arranged in pairs symmetrically up and down on the outer surface side of one side wall 21 in a manner corresponding to each limiting portion 26.

[0026] like Figure 2 As shown, the supporting point portion 28 extends in the vertical direction, and the upper and lower outer ends are connected to the wall surface of the corresponding opposing wall 23. The supporting point portion 28 is arranged inside the covering wall 24 and is covered by the covering wall 24.

[0027] The extension part 29 is in the shape of a plate or a square rod with the plate surface facing the up-down direction. The rear end of the extension part 29 is connected to the upper and lower inner ends of the corresponding fulcrum part 28. Fig.14 As shown, the rear portion of the extension portion 29 is arranged inside the cover wall 24 and is covered by the cover wall 24. The front portion of the extension portion 29 is arranged so as to be exposed in front of the first flange portion 25.

[0028] like Fig.11As shown, the pressed portion 31 contacts and is pressed by a pressing portion 73 described later of the second connector housing 13. The front surface of the pressed portion 31 is inclined toward the rear. The rear surface of the pressed portion 31 is inclined toward the front. The top end surface of the pressed portion 31 in the protruding direction is formed flat along the front-back direction.

[0029] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the limiting body 32 is arranged on the side opposite to the pressed portion 31 across the extension portion 29. The limiting body 32 is in the shape of a rectangular plate with the plate surface facing the left-right direction (Y direction). The left and right outer end surfaces of the limiting body 32 are arranged along the front-back direction. The rear surface of the limiting body 32 is arranged along the left-right direction. Figure 7 As shown, the front end of the restriction body portion 32 is connected to the first fitting lock portion 27 .

[0030] like Fig.11 As shown, the pressed portion 31 is pressed by the pressing portion 73, so that the extension portion 29 elastically deforms to the left and right sides with the fulcrum portion 28 as the fulcrum. When the extension portion 29 elastically deforms, the restriction body 32 also shifts to the left and right sides, and the rear surface of the restriction body 32 is arranged opposite to the one surface P1 of the panel P.

[0031] like Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown in the figure, the first fitting lock portion 27 is formed continuously from each restriction portion 26. Specifically, the first fitting lock portion 27 is in the shape of a plate extending in the up-down direction, and the upper end portion is connected to the front end of the upper restriction portion 26, and the lower end portion is connected to the front end of the lower restriction portion 26. That is, the first fitting lock portion 27 is in a shape that is bridged in a manner that connects the front ends of the restriction portions 26 to each other.

[0032] The first engaging locking portion 27 has a portion that protrudes outwardly to the left and right sides of the limiting main body portion 32 and extends in the up-down direction. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the outer peripheral edge portions of the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the front surface of the first engaging locking portion 27 are tapered toward the front. Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the rear surface of the first interlocking locking portion 27 is arranged along the up-down direction and the left-right direction. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , each restriction portion 26 and the first fitting lock portion 27 are integrated with each other to form a rectangular frame-shaped restriction lock portion 33. The restriction lock portion 33 is disposed at a top and bottom middle portion of the outer surface side of the one side wall 21.

[0033] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a pair of inner guide ribs 34 are protrudingly provided on both sides of the outer surface of one side wall 21 across the limiting locking portion 33. Each inner guide rib 34 is in the shape of a plate with the plate surface facing the up-down direction and extending in the front-back direction. In addition, a pair of outer guide ribs 35 are formed on the outer surface side of one side wall 21, protruding forward from each opposing wall 23. The outer guide ribs 35 are in the shape of a prism, and are arranged to be away from the outer surface of one side wall 21 to the left and right sides.

[0034] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first locking portion 36 and the receiving portion 37 are formed on the outer surface of each end wall 22. The first locking portion 36 is in the shape of a plate with the plate surface facing the left and right directions. The left and right side surfaces (plate surface) of the first locking portion 36 are arranged along the up-down direction and the left-right direction. The first locking portion 36 is arranged in the left and right middle parts of the end wall 22. Figure 6 As shown, the first locking portion 36 is formed in a shape that protrudes upward and downward from the front end portion of the outer surface of the end wall 22 and then extends rearward in a cantilevered shape. The first locking portion 36 can be elastically deformed in the upward and downward directions with the front end portion connected to the outer surface of the end wall 22 as a fulcrum (see Fig.10 ).

[0035] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the front surface of the first locking portion 36 is inclined toward the rear except for the portion that rises from the end wall 22. The portion that rises from the end wall 22 in the front surface of the first locking portion 36 is arranged along the up-down direction. In addition, a panel locking portion 38 is formed in the front-back middle portion of the upper and lower outer surfaces of the first locking portion 36. The panel locking portion 38 is arranged so as to be locked with the surface facing the rear, that is, the surface P1 of the panel P.

[0036] The receiving portion 37 is formed continuously from the first locking portion 36. Fig.10 As shown, the receiving portion 37 is pressed by the release portion 63 of the second connector housing 13, which will be described later, and the pressing force is transmitted to the first locking portion 36, causing the first locking portion 36 to elastically deform. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the receiving portion 37 is provided in pairs on the left and right sides of the first locking portion 36. Specifically, the receiving portion 37 is in the shape of a rib extending in the front-back direction and is arranged at the rear portion of the upper and lower inner sides of the left and right sides of the first locking portion 36. Figure 6 As shown, the upper and lower outer surfaces of the receiving portion 37 constitute the sliding surface 39 on which the release portion 63 slides. The sliding surface 39 is in an inclined shape inclined toward the rear except for the rear end. The rear end of the sliding surface 39 is arranged along the front-rear direction.

[0037] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, a pair of protective walls 41 are formed on both sides of the outer surface of each end wall 22 separated by the first locking portion 36, and the pair of protective walls 41 are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction from the first locking portion 36. Each protective wall 41 is in the shape of a rectangular plate with the plate surface facing the left-right direction, and is arranged in a manner to cover the front end of the first locking portion 36 from the left and right outer sides.

[0038] The left and right side surfaces of the protection wall 41 are arranged along the vertical direction and the left and right direction. The left and right inner side surfaces of the protection wall 41 and the left and right outer side surfaces of the first locking portion 36 constitute an entry space 42 for allowing the release portion 63 to enter. The receiving portion 37 is arranged behind the entry space 42.

[0039] (Second connector 10B) The second connector housing 13 is made of synthetic resin. Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. , the overall shape is long in the vertical direction. Figure 4 As shown, the second connector housing 13 includes a housing body 43 and a fitting cylinder 44 surrounding the outer periphery of the housing body 43. A fitting space 45 is formed between the housing body 43 and the fitting cylinder 44 so as to be open to the front. The cover 17 fits into the fitting space 45.

[0040] The housing body 43 has a plurality of second cavities 46. The second terminal fittings 14 are inserted into and locked in the second cavities 46 from the rear. The second terminal part 14 is made of conductive metal, such as Fig.11 As shown, the terminal portion of the wire W2 is connected. The second terminal part 14 is a female terminal part, and has a cylindrical connecting portion 47. When the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are fitted, the protrusion 19 of the first terminal part 12 is inserted into the inner side of the connecting portion 47. The protrusion 19 contacts the elastic contact portion (not shown) formed on the inner side of the connecting portion 47, thereby electrically connecting the first terminal part 12 and the second terminal part 14.

[0041] A second flange portion 48 is formed at the rear end of the second connector housing 13 so as to protrude radially outward. The rear surface of the second flange portion 48 is continuous with the rear surface of the connection portion connecting the housing body portion 43 and the fitting cylinder portion 44 without a step, and is arranged along the radial direction. The grommet 15 is mounted on the second flange portion 48.

[0042] The wire protection sleeve 15 is made of rubber, such as Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 4 , the device has a corrugated tube portion 49 and a mounting portion 51 expanded from the front end of the tube portion 49. Fig.14As shown, the mounting portion 51 covers the rear end portion of the second flange portion 48 from the rear. Inside the wire sheath 15, the wire W2 connected to the second terminal part 14 is inserted from the mounting portion 51 to the tube portion 49. When the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are in a mating state, the lip portion of the mounting portion 51 is in close contact with the one surface P1 of the panel P.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, the fitting cylinder 44 has a base wall 52 and a pair of auxiliary walls 53. The base wall 52 covers one side (i) of the left and right sides of the housing body 43. Figure 4 The pair of auxiliary walls 53 covers the upper and lower end surfaces of the shell body 43. The height dimension of the base wall 52 is greater than the width dimension of each auxiliary wall 53.

[0044] A groove-shaped recessed portion 54 extending in the front-rear direction is formed on each auxiliary wall 53. Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the front end of the recess 54 opens at the front end surface of the auxiliary wall 53. The rear end of the recess 54 is closed at a position behind the front and rear center of the auxiliary wall 53 and inside the second locking portion 58 described later. In addition, a pair of slits 55 are formed on both sides of the recess 54 of each auxiliary wall 53 and are arranged away from the recess 54 in the left and right directions. The rear end of each slit 55 opens at the rear surface of the second flange portion 48. The front end of each slit 55 is closed at a position ahead of the front and rear center of the auxiliary wall 53. The groove width of the slit 55 is smaller than the groove width of the recess 54.

[0045] The portion of the auxiliary wall 53 between the front end of each slit 55 and the front end surface of the auxiliary wall 53 in the front-rear direction is configured as a fixing portion 56 that cannot be elastically deformed. Figure 4 As shown, one end of the fixing portion 56 in the left-right direction is connected to the base wall 52. The other end of the fixing portion 56 in the left-right direction is connected to a vertical wall 57 arranged opposite to the base wall 52 in the left-right direction. Figure 5 As shown, the front portion of the recess 54 is formed in the fixing portion 56 .

[0046] The auxiliary wall 53 has a second locking portion 58 extending rearward in a cantilevered manner from the fixing portion 56. The second locking portion 58 has a plate-shaped locking body portion 59 extending in the width direction and the front-rear direction. The locking body portion 59 defines the left and right inner ends of each slit 55 between the slits 55 paired in the left and right directions. The rear end of the locking body portion 59 is arranged at the rear end of the second connector housing 13, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the second flange portion 48 passes through an opening 61 that is formed through the second flange portion 48 and faces the rear surface of the second flange portion 48 .

[0047] The rear portion of the recess 54 is provided through the left and right middle portions of the locking body portion 59. The locking body portion 59 can be elastically deformed in the upward and downward directions with the connection portion (front end portion) with the fixing portion 56 as a fulcrum. In addition, the second locking portion 58 has a locking protrusion 62 protruding upward and downward outward from the rear portion of the locking body portion 59. The locking protrusion 62 is mounted on the locking body portion 59 in a manner spanning the recess 54. The front surface of the locking protrusion 62 is inclined toward the rear. The rear surface of the locking protrusion 62 is inclined toward the front. The locking protrusion 62 is arranged in front of the second flange portion 48.

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, a pair of release portions 63 are formed on the inner surface of the auxiliary wall 53, and the pair of release portions 63 are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction. Figure 5 As shown, the left and right paired release portions 63 are arranged adjacent to the recessed portion 54 on both sides of the front portion of the recessed portion 54. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 4 , the release portion 63 is configured to protrude from the fixing portion 56 toward the fitting space 45. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the release portion 63 is in the shape of a plate with the plate surface facing the left-right direction.

[0049] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the front surface of the release portion 63 is inclined toward the rear. The rear surface of the release portion 63 is inclined toward the front. The top end surface (upper and lower inner end surface) of the release portion 63 in the protruding direction is arranged along the front-to-back direction. Figure 5 As shown, the left and right inner side surfaces of the release portion 63 are continuous with the inner side surface of the recessed portion 54 without any step.

[0050] like Figure 7 As shown, a plate-shaped support portion 64 extending in the vertical direction is formed at the front of the upper and lower middle portions of the base wall 52. The upper and lower ends of the support portion 64 are connected to a pair of fitting guide portions 65 extending in the front-rear direction at the upper and lower middle portions of the base wall 52. Figure 4 As shown, the cross section of each engaging guide portion 65 is in the shape of a door opening inward. Each inner guide rib 34 engages with each engaging guide portion 65. A pair of recesses 66 are formed at positions adjacent to each engaging guide portion 65 near the upper and lower ends of the base wall 52. The cross section of each recess 66 is in the shape of a door opening outward. Fig. 9 and Fig.12 As shown, each outer guide rib 35 engages with each recess 66 .

[0051] like Figure 7 and Fig.14As shown in FIG. 1 , the base wall 52 has a locking arm 67 extending rearward from the support portion 64. The locking arm 67 can be elastically deformed in the left-right direction with the connection portion (front end portion) with the support portion 64 as a fulcrum. The locking arm 67 has an arm body portion 68 formed in a rectangular plate shape when viewed from the side, and a second engaging locking portion 69 protruding from the outer surface of the rear portion of the arm body portion 68. Figure 1 and Fig.14 As shown, the rear end of the arm body 68 is disposed at the rear end of the second connector housing 13 , passes through a detachment hole 71 penetrating the second flange 48 , and faces the rear surface of the second flange 48 .

[0052] The second fitting lock portion 69 is arranged forward of the second flange portion 48. Fig.14 As shown, the front surface of the second fitting lock portion 69 is inclined rearward. The rear surface of the second fitting lock portion 69 is arranged along the left-right direction, or is slightly inclined rearward with respect to the left-right direction.

[0053] like Figure 7 As shown, the base wall 52 has a pair of pressing body parts 72 on both sides of the locking arm 67, and the pair of pressing body parts 72 are arranged to be separated from the locking arm 67 upward and downward. Each pressing body part 72 is a rib with a rectangular cross section extending backward from the support part 64, and the upper and lower ends are connected to each fitting guide part 65 over the entire length of the extension direction. Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown in the figure, the area from each pressing body part 72 to the upper and lower ends of the support part 64 is formed as a pressing part 73 extending in the front-to-back direction and not elastically deformable. The outer surface of the pressing part 73 is arranged along the front-to-back direction and the upper-lower direction, and is continuous with the outer surface of the support part 64 except the pressing part 73 and the outer surface of the arm body part 68 without a step. In addition, the outer surface of the pressing part 73 is perpendicularly intersected with the upper and lower inner side surfaces of the adjacent fitting guide part 65.

[0054] <Function of Connector 10> Before the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are mated, the first connector housing 11 is inserted into the through hole P3 of the panel P. During the insertion of the first connector housing 11, the front surface of each first locking portion 36 slides along the hole surface of the through hole P3 of the panel P, and each first locking portion 36 elastically deforms upward, downward and inward. Then, each first locking portion 36 elastically recovers, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the panel locking portion 38 of each first locking portion 36 is disposed opposite to the opening edge of the through hole P3 on one surface P1 of the panel P so as to be in contact with each other. Figure 7As shown, the first flange portion 25 is disposed opposite to the other surface P2 of the panel P so as to be in contact with each other. Thus, the first connector housing 11 is kept in a standby state on the panel P and is restricted from coming out of the panel P in the front-rear direction. The panel P is disposed so as to be sandwiched between each first locking portion 36 and the first flange portion 25. In addition, the front portion of the restriction locking portion 33 passes through the through hole P3 without interfering with the panel P and is disposed on the side of the one surface P1 of the panel P.

[0055] Next, the second connector housing 13 is shallowly engaged with the cover portion 17 of the first connector housing 11 from the side of the panel P1, and the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are engaged. At this time, each inner guide rib 34 is engaged with each engagement guide portion 65 (see FIG. Figure 7 ), and each release portion 63 is engaged with each entry space 42 (refer to Figure 8 ). Thus, the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B can be prevented from being mis-engaged, and the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B can be guided in the front-to-back direction. In addition, when the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B start to engage, a portion of the front surface of each pressed portion 31 straddles the outer surface of the supporting portion 64 of each pressing portion 73, and each extension portion 29 of the limiting locking portion 33 begins to elastically deform to the left and right sides. Each release portion 63 is still arranged away from each receiving portion 37, and each first locking portion 36 maintains a state in which it can be locked with one side P1 of the panel P.

[0056] In the state where the mating operation of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B is progressing from the state at the start of the mating, the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are in the mating process, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown, the top end surface of the pressed portion 31 in the protruding direction extends from the support portion 64 side of the pressing portion 73 to the upper surface of the portion on the pressing body portion 72 side, limiting the extension portion 29 of the locking portion 33 from being elastically deformed to a greater extent to the left and right sides. As a result, the limiting body portion 32 is able to be in contact with one surface P1 of the panel P, thereby limiting the first connector housing 11 from coming off the panel P. At this time, the first mating locking portion 27 and the second mating locking portion 69 are configured in a non-contact state, and the locking arm 67 is maintained in a natural state without elastic deformation. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, the release portion 63 slides on the sliding surface 39 of the receiving portion 37, and each first locking portion 36 integrated with the receiving portion 37 is elastically deformed upward and downward inward, and the panel locking portion 38 of the first locking portion 36 is away from the opening edge of the through hole P3. In this way, when the restriction portion 26 can be in contact with the one side P1 of the panel P, the locking of the first locking portion 36 relative to the one side P1 of the panel P is released.

[0057] In the case of the first embodiment, the receiving parts 37 are arranged in pairs on the left and right sides of the first locking part 36, and the releasing parts 63 are arranged in pairs at positions corresponding to the receiving parts 37. Therefore, an equal force is applied to the first locking part 36 from the receiving parts 37 on the left and right sides in the direction of releasing the locking with the panel P, and the first locking part 36 can be elastically deformed smoothly without twisting.

[0058] Then, the locking protrusion 62 of each second locking portion 58 slides along the hole surface of the panel P, and the locking body 59 of each second locking portion 58 elastically deforms upward and downward inward. When the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are further engaged, the locking body 59 of the second locking portion 58 elastically recovers. Fig.12 As shown, the locking protrusion 62 of the second locking portion 58 is arranged to be in contact with the opening edge of the through hole P3 in the other surface P2 of the panel P. In addition, the second flange portion 48 is arranged to be in contact with the one surface P1 of the panel P. As a result, the second connector housing 13 is retained on the panel P and is restricted from coming off in the front-rear direction from the panel P. The panel P is arranged in a manner sandwiched between each second locking portion 58 and the second flange portion 48. The release portion 63 contacts the rear end portion (the rear end portion when viewed from the first connector 10A) of the sliding surface 39 of the receiving portion 37, and the first locking portion 36 maintains a state of elastic deformation to the upper and lower inner sides (refer to Fig.14 ).

[0059] As described above, while each second locking portion 58 is arranged to be locked on the panel P, or after the second locking portion 58 is arranged to be locked on the panel P, each pressed portion 31 of the limiting locking portion 33 passes over (through) the upper surface of the pressing main body 72 side of each pressing portion 73, and the extension portion 29 elastically recovers to the left and right inner sides. As each extension portion 29 elastically recovers, the first interlocking locking portion 27 formed continuously from each extension portion 29 also shifts to the upper and lower inner sides, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 2 , the rear surfaces of the first fitting lock portion 27 and the second fitting lock portion 69 (rear surfaces when viewed from the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B, respectively) are arranged to face each other so as to be in contact with each other. Fig.12 As shown, the first mating lock portion 27 is arranged on the side of one surface P1 of the panel P and is inserted between the mating guide portions 65 that are paired in the vertical direction. In this way, the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69 are arranged to be locked, so that the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are maintained in a mating state.

[0060] When the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B in the mating state are to be separated due to maintenance or the like, first, the grommet 15 is removed from the second flange portion 48, and the tip of a jig or a finger (not shown) is brought into contact with the rear end of the lock body 59 of each second lock portion 58 through the opening 61, so that the lock body 59 of each second lock portion 58 is elastically deformed upward and downward inward. As a result, the locking between the locking protrusion 62 and the panel P is released, and the first connector housing 11 and the second connector housing 13 in the mating state are removed from the panel P. Then, the tip of a jig or a finger (not shown) is brought into contact with the rear end of the arm body 68 of the lock arm 67 through the removal hole 71, so that the arm body 68 is elastically deformed inward to the left and right. As a result, the second mating lock portion 69 is separated from the first mating lock portion 27, and the locking between the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69 is released. In this state, by pulling the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B apart, the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are separated from each other.

[0061] As described above, the connector 10 of the present embodiment 1 includes the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B that is mated with the first connector 10A from the side of the one surface P1 of the panel P. The first connector 10A includes the limiting portion 26 and the first mating locking portion 27. The limiting portion 26 is elastically deformed in the direction of contact with the one surface P1 of the panel P during the mating process of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B. The first mating locking portion 27 is formed continuously from the limiting portion 26. The second connector 10B includes the pressing portion 73 and the elastically deformable locking arm 67. The pressing portion 73 presses the limiting portion 26 in the direction of contact with the one surface P1 of the panel P during the mating process. The locking arm 67 is configured separately from the pressing portion 73. In addition, the locking arm 67 includes the second mating locking portion 69 that can be locked with the first mating locking portion 27.

[0062] During the mating process of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B, the limiting portion 26 is pressed by the pressing portion 73 and configured to be in contact with the surface P1 of the panel P, thereby limiting the first connector 10A from falling off the panel P. In this way, the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B can be mated. When the pressing of the pressing portion 73 is released and the limiting portion 26 is displaced in the direction of elastic recovery, the first mating locking portion 27 continuous from the limiting portion 26 is configured to be locked with the second mating locking portion 69 of the locking arm 67, and the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are maintained in a mating state. Here, since the second mating locking portion 69 is configured separately from the locking arm 67, it can be formed independently of the shape of the locking arm 67. As a result, the second mating locking portion 69 can be formed into a shape that can stably maintain the locking with the first mating locking portion 27. Furthermore, since the lock arm 67 is elastically deformable, it can be elastically deformed according to maintenance or the like to release the locking of the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69, thereby disengaging the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B in the mating state.

[0063] In addition, the locking arm 67 is in a cantilevered shape extending from the other side P2 of the panel P to the one side P1 (rear side), and the second interlocking locking portion 69 is arranged in the front and rear middle part of the locking arm 67, and the rear end portion (free end portion) of the locking arm 67 is arranged in a manner facing the one side P1 of the panel P.

[0064] When the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B in the mating state are to be disengaged, the rear end of the lock arm 67 is pressed to elastically deform the lock arm 67, thereby releasing the locking of the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69. In particular, since the rear end of the lock arm 67 is arranged to face the one surface P1 side of the panel P, the rear end of the lock arm 67 can be pressed from the one surface P1 side of the panel P without any hindrance.

[0065] In addition, in the first connector 10A, the limiting portions 26 are arranged in pairs at intervals in a direction (up and down direction) intersecting the mating direction of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B, and the first mating lock portion 27 is a shape that is bridged on the paired limiting portions 26. Since the first mating lock portion 27 is a shape that is bridged on the paired limiting portions 26, a predetermined rigidity can be ensured, and the locking with the second mating lock portion 69 can be maintained more stably.

[0066] In addition, the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69 are arranged in a non-contact state with each other during the mating process of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B. Therefore, no contact resistance is generated between the first mating lock portion 27 and the second mating lock portion 69, and the operating force when the connector 10 is mated can be reduced.

[0067] Furthermore, in the case of the connector 10 of the first embodiment, the first connector 10A has an elastically deformable first locking portion 36 locked with the panel P, and a receiving portion 37 formed continuously from the first locking portion 36. The second connector 10B has a release portion 63 and an elastically deformable second locking portion 58, the release portion 63 pressing the receiving portion 37 during the mating process of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B to release the locking of the first locking portion 36 with respect to the panel P, and the second locking portion 58 being locked with the panel P when the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B are in the mating state. The receiving portions 37 are arranged in pairs on both sides of the first locking portion 36. The release portions 63 correspond to the paired receiving portions 37 and are arranged in pairs on both sides of the second locking portion 58.

[0068] During the mating process of the first connector 10A and the second connector 10B, the receiving portions 37 arranged in pairs on both sides of the first locking portion 36 are pressed by the corresponding releasing portions 63, so that uniform forces can be applied to the first locking portion 36 from both sides in the unlocking direction. As a result, the first locking portion 36 can be smoothly elastically deformed when the locking with the panel P is released.

[0069] The second lock portion 58 has a plate-shaped lock body 59 with a plate width oriented in the left-right direction. A recess 54 extending in the front-rear direction and opening at the front end is formed in the left-right middle portion of the lock body 59. The first lock portion 36 is shaped to fit into the recess 54.

[0070] Since the first locking portion 36 can be fitted with the recessed portion 54 formed in the left and right middle portions of the lock body portion 59, the above-mentioned structure of arranging the receiving portion 37 on the left and right sides of the first locking portion 36 and arranging the release portion 63 on the left and right sides of the second locking portion 58 can be realized efficiently in terms of space saving. In addition, by fitting the first locking portion 36 with the recessed portion 54, the bending action of the second locking portion 58 can be guided.

[0071] In addition, the release portions 63 formed in pairs in the left-right direction are arranged adjacent to the recessed portion 54 on both left and right sides of the recessed portion 54. Therefore, while suppressing the size increase of the connector 10, the structure in which the receiving portion 37 is arranged on both left and right sides of the first locking portion 36 and the release portions 63 are arranged on both left and right sides of the second locking portion 58 can be realized with better space efficiency.

[0072] The first connector 10A has protection walls 41 on both sides of the first lock portion 36, and the protection walls 41 are disposed at a distance in the left-right direction from the first lock portion 36. The protection walls 41 and the first lock portion 36 form an entry space 42 into which the release portion 63 can enter.

[0073] Therefore, the first lock portion 36 is protected from external foreign matter by the protection wall 41. In addition, the space between the protection wall 41 and the first lock portion 36 forms an entry space 42 for allowing the release portion 63 to enter, so that the size of the connector 10 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0074] [Other embodiments of the present invention] The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. In the case of the above-mentioned first embodiment, the first connector 10A has a restriction portion 26 and a first fitting lock portion 27 on the side wall 21, and has a first locking portion 36 and a receiving portion 37 on the end wall 22. In addition, the second connector 10B has a locking arm 67 and a pressing portion 73 on the base wall 52, and has a second locking portion 58 and a release portion 63 on the auxiliary wall 53. In contrast to this, according to other embodiments, the first connector may have a restriction portion and a first fitting lock portion on the end wall, and a first locking portion and a receiving portion on the side wall, in contrast to the above-mentioned first embodiment. In addition, the second connector may have a locking arm and a pressing portion on the auxiliary wall, and a second locking portion and a release portion on the base wall. In the case of the first embodiment, the first connector 10A has a male first connector housing 11 and a male first terminal part 12, and the second connector 10B has a female second connector housing 13 and a female second terminal part 14. In this regard, according to other embodiments, the first connector may have a female first connector housing and a female first terminal part, and the second connector may have a male second connector housing and a male second terminal part, which is opposite to the first embodiment. Description of Reference Numerals

[0075] 10: Connector 10A: 1st connector 10B: 2nd connector 11: 1st connector housing 12: 1st terminal part 13: Second connector housing 14: Second terminal parts 15: Wire sheath 16: Terminal storage part 17: Hood 18: Cavity 1 19: Tab 21: Sidewall 22: End wall 23: Opposing wall 24: Cover the wall 25: 1st flange 26: Restriction Department 27: First engagement lock portion 28: Fulcrum Department 29: Extension 31: Pressed part 32: Limit the main body 33: Limit locking part 34: Inner guide rib 35: Outer guide rib 36: 1st locking part 37: Bearing part 38: Panel stopper 39: Sliding surface 41: Protective wall 42: Entering Space 43: Shell body 44: Fitting barrel 45: Chimeric Space 46: Cavity 2 47: Connection 48: Second flange 49: Management Department 51: Installation 52: Base wall 53: Auxiliary wall 54: concave part 55: Slit 56: Fixed part 57: Vertical Wall 58: Second locking part 59: Lock the main body 61: Opening 62: Locking protrusion 63: Lifting Department 64: Supporting part 65: Fitting guide 66: Concave 67: Locking Arm 68: Arm body 69: Second interlocking lock portion 71: Disassembly hole 72: Press the main body 73: Pressing part P: Panel P1: One side P2: The other side P3: Through hole W1, W2: Wires

Claims

1. A connector comprising a first connector and a second connector that is engaged with the first connector from one side of a panel, The first connector has a restriction portion and a first mating lock portion formed continuously from the restriction portion, wherein the restriction portion is elastically deformed in a direction of contacting the one surface during the mating process of the first connector and the second connector. The second connector has a pressing portion and an elastically deformable locking arm separately arranged from the pressing portion, wherein the pressing portion presses the limiting portion in a direction of contacting the one surface during the mating process. The lock arm has a second fitting lock portion that can be locked with the first fitting lock portion.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The locking arm is in a cantilevered shape extending from the other side of the panel to the one side. The second engaging locking portion is arranged at a middle portion in the extending direction of the locking arm. The free end portion of the locking arm is arranged to face the one surface side.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The restricting portions are arranged in pairs in the first connector at intervals in a direction intersecting a mating direction of the first connector and the second connector. The first fitting lock portion is shaped to bridge the pair of restriction portions.

4. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first fitting lock portion and the second fitting lock portion are arranged in a non-contact state with each other during the fitting process.

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