Connector assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a connector assembly capable of connecting electric wires to each other through a first connector and a second connector having the same structure, and capable of achieving waterproofness with a simple structure. The first connector (11) has a first waterproof sheet (14) disposed on a planar first joining surface (12B) of the first insulator (12) so as to surround a first contact housing section that houses the first contact (13). The second connector (21) has a second waterproof piece (24) disposed on a planar second joining surface (22B) of the second insulator (22) so as to surround a second contact accommodating portion for accommodating the second contact (23), and when the first connector (11) and the second connector (21) are fitted to each other, the first waterproof piece (14) and the second waterproof piece (24) are in close contact with each other, and the first contact (13) and the second contact (23) are in contact with each other. The first electric wire (C1) and the second electric wire (C2) are electrically connected to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector assembly, and in particular to a connector assembly in which a first connector and a second connector are engaged with each other, wherein the first connector is connected to the end of a first wire, and the second connector is connected to the end of a second wire and has the same structure as the first connector. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a connector for connecting two electric wires to each other.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, Fig.43 As shown in FIG. 1 , a connector assembly is disclosed for connecting a plurality of electric wires to each other by fitting a first connector 1 and a second connector 2. The first connector 1 and the second connector 2 have the same structure and are formed as hermaphrodites.

[0004] The first connector 1 includes a first insulator 3 and a plurality of first contacts 4 held by the first insulator 3. The first insulator 3 includes a flat plate portion 3A extending forward of the first connector 1 and provided with the plurality of first contacts 4, and a pair of guide portions 3B adjacent to both sides of the thin plate portion 3A and extending forward on a surface different from the thin plate portion 3A.

[0005] The second connector 2 has a second insulator 5 and a plurality of second contacts 6 (not shown) held by the second insulator 5, similarly to the first connector 1. The second insulator 5 has a flat plate portion 5A extending forward of the second connector 2 and provided with a plurality of second contacts 6, and a pair of guide portions 5B adjacent to both sides of the thin plate portion 5A and extending forward on a surface different from the thin plate portion 5A.

[0006] like Fig.43 As shown, if the first connector 1 and the second connector 2 are plugged into each other in the reverse directions of front to back, left to right, and top to bottom, the thin plate portion 3A and the thin plate portion 5A overlap with each other, and a pair of guide portions 3B and a pair of guide portions 5B overlap and contact with each other, respectively, whereby the first connector 1 and the second connector 2 are in a mating state.

[0007] Therefore, if Fig.44 As shown, contact portions 4A of first contacts 4 disposed on thin plate portion 3A and contact portions 6A of second contacts 6 disposed on thin plate portion 5A are in elastic contact, and the plurality of first contacts 4 and the plurality of second contacts 6 are electrically connected to each other.

[0008] Since the contact portions 4A of the plurality of first contacts 4 and the contact portions 6A of the plurality of second contacts 6 are in elastic contact, a force in a direction away from each other is applied to the first connector 1 and the second connector 2. Fig.43The pair of guide portions 3B and the pair of guide portions 5B shown are in contact with each other, and the mating state of the first connector 1 and the second connector 2 is maintained.

[0009] Prior art literature

[0010] Patent Literature

[0011] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-55657

[0012] In such a connector assembly, it is desirable to have a waterproof structure in order to prevent water from penetrating from the outside into the contact portion between the first contact 4 and the second contact 6. However, the first insulator 3 and the second insulator 5 respectively have a thin plate portion 3A, 5A extending forward and a pair of guide portions 3B, 5B extending forward on a surface different from the thin plate portion 3A, 5A, and the thin plate portion 3A and the thin plate portion 5A overlap each other, and the pair of guide portions 3B and the pair of guide portions 5B overlap each other, thereby forming a mating state.

[0013] Since the first insulator 3 and the second insulator 5 have such a complicated structure, there is a problem that it is difficult to form a waterproof structure. Summary of the invention

[0014] The present invention is made to solve such conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a connector assembly that can connect electric wires to each other by using a first connector and a second connector having the same structure, and can achieve waterproofing with a simple structure.

[0015] The connector assembly of the present invention is a connector assembly formed by a first connector and a second connector being engaged with each other, wherein the first connector is connected to the end of a first electric wire, and the second connector is connected to the end of a second electric wire and has the same structure as the first connector.

[0016] The first connector includes a first insulator, a first contact held by the first insulator and connected to an end of the first electric wire, and a first waterproof sheet.

[0017] The second connector includes a second insulator, a second contact held by the second insulator and connected to an end of the second electric wire, and a second waterproof sheet.

[0018] The first insulator has a planar first joint surface and a concave first contact accommodating portion formed on the first joint surface and accommodating the first contact.

[0019] The second insulator has a planar second joint surface opposite to the first joint surface and a concave second contact receiving portion formed on the second joint surface and receiving the second contact.

[0020] The first waterproof sheet is arranged on the first joint surface in a manner of surrounding the first contact accommodating portion.

[0021] The second waterproof sheet is arranged on the second joint surface in a manner of surrounding the second contact accommodating portion.

[0022] When the first connector and the second connector are mated with each other, the first waterproof sheet and the second waterproof sheet are sandwiched between the first joint surface and the second joint surface and are in close contact with each other, the first contact and the second contact are in contact with each other, and the first wire and the second wire are electrically connected to each other.

[0023] Preferably, the first electric wire and the second electric wire are each composed of a coated electric wire in which the outer periphery of the conductor portion is covered with an insulating coating portion.

[0024] The conductor portion at the end of the first electric wire is connected to the first contact in the first contact receiving portion.

[0025] The conductor portion at the end portion of the second electric wire is connected to the second contact in the second contact accommodation portion.

[0026] In this case, it is preferred that the first insulator has a first wire accommodating groove formed on the first joint surface in a manner communicating with the first contact accommodating portion and accommodating a portion of the first wire.

[0027] The second insulator has a second wire accommodating groove formed on the second joint surface in a manner communicating with the second contact accommodating portion and accommodating a portion of the second wire.

[0028] The first waterproof sheet is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the first wire receiving groove and a portion of the first wire.

[0029] The second waterproof sheet is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the second electric wire accommodating groove and a portion of the second electric wire.

[0030] The first connector and the second connector may be configured to be fitted to each other by pressing the second connector relative to the first connector in a direction perpendicular to the first joint surface and the second joint surface.

[0031] Alternatively, the first connector and the second connector may be configured to fit together by relatively moving along the second joint surface and the first joint surface.

[0032] In this case, preferably, the first contact has a first protrusion that protrudes toward the second connector.

[0033] The second contact has a second protrusion protruding toward the first connector,

[0034] The first connector and the second connector move relatively until the first protrusion and the second protrusion pass over each other.

[0035] The first connector and the second connector may move relative to each other in a manner of sliding in a straight line.

[0036] Alternatively, the first connector and the second connector may move relative to each other in a rotational and sliding manner.

[0037] More preferably, the first insulator has a first locking portion and a first locked portion,

[0038] The second insulator has a second locking portion and a second locked portion,

[0039] When the first connector and the second connector are fitted with each other, the first locked portion is locked by the second locking portion, and the second locked portion is locked by the first locking portion, so that the first insulator and the second insulator are fixed to each other.

[0040] Alternatively, the first insulator has a first locking portion,

[0041] The second insulator has a second locking portion,

[0042] When the first connector and the second connector are fitted with each other, the first locking portion and the second locking portion interfere with each other, so that the first insulator and the second insulator are fixed to each other.

[0043] Furthermore, the first contact and the second contact may be configured to contact each other at two points.

[0044] Effects of the present invention:

[0045] According to the present invention, the first insulator of the first connector has a planar first joint surface and a concave first contact accommodating portion formed on the first joint surface, and the second insulator of the second connector has a planar second joint surface opposite to the first joint surface and a concave second contact accommodating portion formed on the second joint surface, the first waterproof sheet is arranged on the first joint surface in a manner surrounding the first contact accommodating portion, and the second waterproof sheet is arranged on the second joint surface in a manner surrounding the second contact accommodating portion, when the first connector and the second connector are engaged with each other, the first waterproof sheet and the second waterproof sheet are sandwiched between the first joint surface and the second joint surface and are tightly attached to each other, the first contact and the second contact are in contact with each other, and the first wire and the second wire are electrically connected to each other, so that the wires can be connected to each other through the first connector and the second connector having the same structure, and waterproofing can be achieved with a simple structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the first embodiment in a mating state.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a plan view showing the connector assembly according to the first embodiment in a mating state.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a side view showing the connector assembly according to the first embodiment in a mating state.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the first embodiment in a state before mating.

[0050] Figure 5 This is an assembly diagram of the first connector in the connector assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the first insulator of the first connector in the first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the first contact of the first connector in the first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a plan view showing the first connector in the first embodiment.

[0054] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 BB line cross-sectional view.

[0055] Fig.10 The second connector in Embodiment 1 is Fig. 9 The corresponding cross-sectional view.

[0056] Fig.11 yes Figure 2 AA line section view.

[0057] Fig.12 This is a partially enlarged view showing the first locking portion and the second locked portion of the connector assembly according to the first embodiment in the mating state.

[0058] Fig.13 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a mating state.

[0059] Fig.14 It is a plan view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a mating state.

[0060] Fig.15 This is a side view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a mating state.

[0061] Fig.16 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a state before mating.

[0062] Fig.17 This is an assembly diagram of the first connector in the connector assembly according to the second embodiment.

[0063] Fig.18 This is a perspective view showing a first insulator of a first connector in accordance with a second embodiment.

[0064] Fig.19 This is a perspective view showing a first contact of a first connector in accordance with a second embodiment.

[0065] Fig. 20 This is a plan view showing the first connector in the second embodiment.

[0066] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 DD line cross-sectional view.

[0067] Fig. 22 The second connector in Embodiment 2 is Fig.21 The corresponding cross-sectional view.

[0068] Fig.23 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector slide linearly.

[0069] Fig.24 This is a side view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector slide linearly.

[0070] Fig.25 This is a side cross-sectional view showing the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector slide linearly.

[0071] Fig.26 yes Fig.14 CC line section view.

[0072] Fig. 27 This is a partially enlarged view showing a first locking portion and a second locked portion of the connector assembly according to the second embodiment in a mated state.

[0073] Fig.28 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a mating state.

[0074] Fig.29 It is a plan view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a mating state.

[0075] Fig.30 This is a side view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a mating state.

[0076] Fig.31 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a state before mating.

[0077] Fig.32This is an assembly diagram of the first connector in the connector assembly according to the third embodiment.

[0078] Fig.33 This is a perspective view showing a first insulator of a first connector in a third embodiment.

[0079] Fig.34 This is a perspective view showing a first contact of a first connector in accordance with a third embodiment.

[0080] Fig.35 It is a top view showing the first connector in the third embodiment.

[0081] Fig.36 yes Fig.35 FF line cross-sectional view.

[0082] Fig.37 The second connector in Embodiment 3 is Fig.36 The corresponding cross-sectional view.

[0083] Fig.38 This is a perspective view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector are rotated and slid.

[0084] Fig.39 This is a side view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector are rotated and slid.

[0085] Fig.40 This is a side cross-sectional view showing the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a state before the first connector and the second connector are rotated and slid.

[0086] Fig.41 yes Fig.29 EE line cross-sectional view.

[0087] Fig.42 This is a partially enlarged view showing a first locking portion and a second locked portion of the connector assembly according to the third embodiment in a mated state.

[0088] Fig.43 This is a perspective view showing a conventional connector assembly in a state before mating.

[0089] Fig.44 It is a cross-sectional view showing a conventional connector assembly in a mating state.

[0090] Reference numerals

[0091] 1 first connector, 2 second connector, 3 first insulator, 3A, 5A thin plate portion, 3B, 5B guide portion, 4 first contact, 5 second insulator, 6 second contact, 11, 31, 51 first connector, 12, 32, 52 first insulator, 12A, 32A flat plate portion, 12B, 32B, 52B first mating surface, 12C, 52C first contact accommodating portion, 12D, 52D press-fit hole, 12E, 22F, 32D, 42G , 52E first wire receiving groove, 12F, 22E, 32G, 42D second wire receiving groove, 12G, 32H, 52F first locking portion, 12H through hole, 12J, 32L first locked portion, 13, 33, 53 first contact, 13A, 23A, 33A, 43A, 53A, 63A wire connecting portion, 13B, 33B foot portion, 13C, 33C, 53B, 63B extension portion, 13D, 32J, 33D , 52G, 62G arm portion, 13E, 33E, 53C first protrusion, 14, 34, 54 first waterproof sheet, 14A, 24A, 34A, 44A, 54A, 64A opening portion, 21, 41, 61 second connector, 22, 42, 62 second insulator, 22B, 42B, 62B second mating surface, 22C, 62C second contact accommodating portion, 22G, 42H, 62F second locking portion, 22J, 42L second Locking portion, 23, 43, 63 second contact, 23E, 43E, 63C second convex portion, 24, 64 second waterproof sheet, 32C, 32E recessed portion, 32F connecting groove, 32K, 32M, 52H, 62H protrusion, 52A circular plate portion, 52J, 62J reduced diameter portion, 53D press-fit portion, C1 first electric wire, C2 second electric wire, CA conductor portion, CB insulating covering portion, RA rotating shaft, S1 front end side contact portion, S2 base end side contact portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0093] Implementation Method 1

[0094] Figure 1 to Figure 3 The connector assembly of Embodiment 1 is shown. The connector assembly includes a first connector 11 and a second connector 21, and the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are fitted to each other by pressing the second connector 21 relative to the first connector 11, thereby electrically connecting the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2.

[0095] The first connector 11 is connected to the end of the first wire C1, and the second connector 21 is connected to the end of the second wire C2. The first wire C1 and the second wire C2 are respectively covered wires whose outer peripheries of the conductor CA are covered by the insulating coating CB, and extend in opposite directions along the same straight line.

[0096] The first connector 11 has a first insulator 12 extending along the extension direction of the first electric wire C1, and the second connector 21 has a second insulator 22 extending along the extension direction of the second electric wire C2. The first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are fitted with each other in a state where the second insulator 22 overlaps the first insulator 12.

[0097] Here, for convenience, the direction from the first connector 11 toward the second connector 21 when the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are in the mating state is called the +Z direction, the direction in which the first wire C1 and the second wire C2 extend is called the Y direction, and the width direction of the first insulator 12 and the second insulator 22, that is, the direction orthogonal to the YZ plane is called the X direction.

[0098] The first connector 11 and the second connector 21 have the same structure. The first connector 11 is connected to the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, and the second connector 21 is connected to the +Y direction end of the second electric wire C2.

[0099] Figure 4 The connector assembly of Embodiment 1 is shown in a state before mating. The first connector 11 and the second connector 21 have the same structure and are formed as hermaphrodites. The second connector 21 is mated with the first connector 11 in an opposite posture in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction relative to the first connector 11.

[0100] Figure 5 The assembling diagram of the first connector 11 is shown. The first contacts 13 are arranged on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 12 , the first waterproof sheet 14 is arranged on the +Z direction side of the first contacts 13 , and the first electric wires C1 are arranged on the +Z direction side of the first waterproof sheet 14 .

[0101] The first waterproof sheet 14 has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the first insulator 12 when viewed from the +Z direction, and a rectangular opening 14A extending in the Y direction is formed at the center of the first waterproof sheet 14. In addition, at the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, the conductor portion CA is exposed by removing the insulating coating portion CB, and the exposed conductor portion CA of the first electric wire C1 is located on the +Z direction side of the first contact 13 via the opening 14A of the first waterproof sheet 14.

[0102] like Figure 6As shown, the first insulator 12 is formed of an insulating resin and has a substantially rectangular flat plate portion 12A extending in the Y direction along the XY plane. The flat plate portion 12A has a planar first joint surface 12B facing the +Z direction and a concave first contact accommodating portion 12C formed on the first joint surface 12B and open in the +Z direction. The first contact accommodating portion 12C extends in the Y direction, and a pair of press-fit holes 12D are formed on the +X direction side and the -X direction side of the +Y direction end of the first contact accommodating portion 12C.

[0103] In addition, the first joint surface 12B is formed with: a first wire accommodating groove 12E extending from the first contact accommodating portion 12C to the +Y direction end of the first insulator 12 in the Y direction; and a second wire accommodating groove 12F extending from the first contact accommodating portion 12C to the -Y direction end of the first insulator 12 in the Y direction.

[0104] That is, in the XY plane, the periphery of the first contact accommodating portion 12C is completely surrounded by the planar first joint surface 12B and the first and second wire accommodating grooves 12E and 12F.

[0105] Furthermore, a pair of flat plate-shaped first locking portions 12G extending outward in the X direction and projecting in the +Z direction are formed on both sides of the flat plate portion 12A located on the +X direction side and the -X direction side of the second wire receiving groove 12F. A through hole 12H penetrating in the X direction is formed in the first locking portion 12G.

[0106] Furthermore, a pair of first locked portions 12J extending outward in the X direction from the flat plate portion 12A are formed on both sides of the flat plate portion 12A located on the +X direction side and the −X direction side of the first wire accommodating groove 12E.

[0107] like Figure 7 As shown, the first contact 13 is formed of a conductive and bent metal plate and has a substantially rectangular wire connecting portion 13A extending along the XY plane and a pair of leg portions 13B bent in the -Z direction from the +X direction end and the -X direction end of the wire connecting portion 13A.

[0108] Furthermore, the first contact 13 includes an extension portion 13C extending from the wire connection portion 13A in the -Y direction so as to form the same plane as the wire connection portion 13A, and an arm portion 13D further extending from the extension portion 13C in the -Y direction, and a first convex portion 13E bent so as to protrude in the +Z direction is formed at the -Y direction end of the arm portion 13D. The front end side contact portion S1 is formed by the surface on the +Z direction side of the first convex portion 13E, and the base end side contact portion S2 is formed by the surface on the +Z direction side of the extension portion 13C.

[0109] like Figure 8As shown, in the first connector 11, the first contact 13 is accommodated and held in the first contact accommodation portion 12C by the pair of leg portions 13B of the first contact 13 being pressed into the pair of press-fit holes 12D of the first insulator 12. In addition, a first waterproof sheet 14 made of a rubber material or the like is arranged on the surface of the first joint surface 12B of the first insulator 12, and the first contact 13 is exposed through an opening 14A of the first waterproof sheet 14.

[0110] The conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating portion CB near the −Y direction end portion of the first electric wire C1 is connected to the electric wire connecting portion 13A of the first contact 13 by welding, for example.

[0111] like Fig. 9 As shown, the −Z direction portion of the insulation coating CB near the −Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodation groove 12E of the first insulator 12 via the first waterproof sheet 14 .

[0112] The first convex portion 13E of the first contact 13 is located on the +Z direction side of the first joint surface 12B of the first insulator 12 through the opening 14A of the first waterproof sheet 14 , and the front end contact portion S1 faces the +Z direction.

[0113] Here, Fig.10 The second connector 21 is shown to be fitted with the first connector 11. The second connector 21 has the same structure as the first connector 11, and is fitted with the first connector 11 in an inverse posture in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction.

[0114] like Fig.10 As shown, in the second connector 21, the second contact 23 is accommodated and held in the second contact accommodating portion 22C of the second insulator 22, and a second waterproof sheet 24 made of rubber material or the like is arranged on the surface of the second joint surface 22B of the second insulator 22, and the second contact 23 is exposed through the opening portion 24A of the second waterproof sheet 24.

[0115] Furthermore, in the XY plane, the periphery of the second contact accommodating portion 22C is completely surrounded by the planar second joint surface 22B, the second wire accommodating groove 22E, and the first wire accommodating groove 22F.

[0116] The +Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the +Y direction end of the second electric wire C2 is accommodated in the second electric wire accommodating groove 22E of the second insulator 22 via the second waterproof sheet 24, and the conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating CB is connected to the electric wire connecting portion 23A of the second contact 23, for example by welding.

[0117] The second protrusions 23E of the second contacts 23 are located on the −Z direction side of the second joint surface 22B of the second insulator 22 through the openings 24A of the second waterproof sheet 24 , and the front end contact portions S1 face the −Z direction.

[0118] In addition, the second insulator 22 of the second connector 21 has a second locking portion 22G and a second locked portion 22J described later, and the second locking portion 22G and the second locked portion 22J have the same structure as the first locking portion 12G and the first locked portion 12J of the first insulator 12 of the first connector 11, and the second locking portion 22G has a through hole that passes through in the X direction.

[0119] When assembling the connector assembly of the first embodiment, the second connector 21 is arranged on the +Z direction side of the first connector 11 in a posture opposite to the first connector 11 in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction, and is pressed toward the first connector 11 in the −Z direction.

[0120] Thus, the second insulator 22 overlaps the +Z direction side of the first insulator 12, and the first waterproof sheet 14 arranged on the surface of the first joint surface 12B and the second waterproof sheet 24 arranged on the surface of the second joint surface 22B are sandwiched between the first joint surface 12B and the second joint surface 22B and are in close contact with each other.

[0121] The second insulator 22 is overlapped on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 12, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first locked portion 12J of the first insulator 12 is locked by the second locking portion 22G of the second insulator 22, and the second locked portion 22J of the second insulator 22 is locked by the first locking portion 12G of the first insulator 12, so that the first insulator 12 and the second insulator 22 are fixed to each other.

[0122] As a result, the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 are fitted with each other, and the assembly of the connector assembly is completed.

[0123] At this time, if Fig.11 As shown, the front end side contact portion S1 of the first contact 13 and the base end side contact portion S2 of the second contact 23 are elastically in contact in the Z direction, and the front end side contact portion S1 of the second contact 23 and the base end side contact portion S2 of the first contact 13 are elastically in contact in the Z direction. As a result, the first contact 13 and the second contact 23 are in contact and electrically connected at two points separated from each other in the Y direction. As a result, the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are electrically connected to each other with good reliability via the first contact 13 and the second contact 23.

[0124] In addition, the -Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodating groove 12E of the first insulator 12 via the first waterproof sheet 14, and the +Z direction portion is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodating groove 22F of the second insulator 22 via the second waterproof sheet 24.

[0125] Similarly, the +Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the +Y direction end of the second wire C2 is accommodated in the second wire accommodating groove 22E of the second insulator 22 via the second waterproof sheet 24, and the -Z direction portion is accommodated in the second wire accommodating groove 12F of the first insulator 12 via the first waterproof sheet 14.

[0126] Furthermore, as described above, by fitting the first connector 11 and the second connector 21, the first waterproof sheet 14 disposed on the planar first joint surface 12B so as to surround the first contact accommodating portion 12C and the second waterproof sheet 24 disposed on the planar second joint surface 22B so as to surround the second contact accommodating portion 22C are pressed against each other in the Z direction and come into close contact with each other. Therefore, it is possible to easily form a waterproof structure using the first waterproof sheet 14 and the second waterproof sheet 24 made of a rubber material or the like.

[0127] In addition, if the second locked portion 22J of the second insulator 22 is locked by the first locking portion 12G of the first insulator 12, Fig.12 As shown, the second locked portion 22J is inserted into and hooked in the through hole 12H of the first locking portion 12G. Although not shown, the first locked portion 12J is similarly inserted into and hooked in the through hole of the second locking portion 22G. Thus, the second connector 21 in the mating state is effectively prevented from moving from the first connector 11 in the +Z direction to release the mating state.

[0128] Furthermore, the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 can be detached from each other by deforming the first locking portion 12G and the second locking portion 22G of the first connector 11 and the second connector 21 in the mating state with a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver to release the hook of the second locked portion 22J and the first locked portion 12J.

[0129] Implementation Method 2

[0130] Figure 13 to Figure 15 The connector assembly of Embodiment 2 is shown. The connector assembly includes a first connector 31 and a second connector 41, and the first connector 31 and the second connector 41 are fitted with each other by sliding the second connector 41 linearly relative to the first connector 31, thereby electrically connecting the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2.

[0131] The first connector 31 is connected to the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, and the second connector 41 is connected to the +Y direction end of the second electric wire C2. The first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are the same as the electric wires used in the first embodiment, and each constitutes a covered electric wire whose outer periphery of the conductor part CA is covered by the insulating coating part CB, and extends in opposite directions along the same straight line.

[0132] The first connector 31 includes a first insulator 32 extending in the Y direction, and the second connector 41 includes a second insulator 42 extending in the Y direction. The first connector 31 and the second connector 41 are fitted to each other in a state where the second insulator 42 overlaps the first insulator 32 .

[0133] Fig.16 The connector assembly of Embodiment 2 is shown in a state before mating. The first connector 31 and the second connector 41 have the same structure and are formed as hermaphrodites. The second connector 41 is mated with the first connector 31 in an opposite posture in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction relative to the first connector 31.

[0134] Fig.17 The assembling diagram of the first connector 31 is shown. The first contact 33 is arranged on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 32 , the first waterproof sheet 34 is arranged on the +Z direction side of the first contact 33 , and the first electric wire C1 is arranged on the +Z direction side of the first waterproof sheet 34 .

[0135] The first waterproof sheet 34 has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the first insulator 32 when viewed from the +Z direction, and a rectangular opening 34A extending in the Y direction is formed at the center of the first waterproof sheet 34. In addition, at the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, the conductor CA is exposed by removing the insulating coating CB, and the exposed conductor CA of the first electric wire C1 is located on the +Z direction side of the first contact 33 via the opening 34A of the first waterproof sheet 34.

[0136] like Fig.18 As shown, the first insulator 32 is formed of an insulating resin and has a substantially rectangular flat plate portion 32A extending in the Y direction along the XY plane. The flat plate portion 32A has a planar first joint surface 32B facing the +Z direction, and a recessed portion 32C opening in the +Z direction is formed on the first joint surface 32B at a position offset from the center of the flat plate portion 32A in the Y direction to the +Y direction side.

[0137] Furthermore, a first wire accommodating groove 32D extending from the recess 32C to the +Y direction end portion of the first insulator 32 in the Y direction is formed on the first joint surface 32B.

[0138] Furthermore, the first joint surface 32B is formed with: a recess 32E arranged at the center of the first insulator 32 in the Y direction and open toward the +Z direction; a connecting groove 32F connected to the recess 32E and extending from the recess 32E in the -Y direction; and a second wire accommodating groove 32G extending from the connecting groove 32F in the Y direction to the -Y direction end of the first insulator 32.

[0139] The recessed portion 32C accommodates a portion of the first contact 33 and holds the first contact 33, and the recessed portion 32E accommodates the contact portion of the first contact 33 and the second contact 43 described later of the second connector 41 when the first connector 31 is mated with the second connector 41. The recessed portions 32C and 32E form a concave first contact accommodating portion arranged on the first mating surface 32B.

[0140] A pair of L-shaped first locking portions 32H extending outward in the X direction and projecting in the +Z direction from the flat plate portion 32A are formed on both sides of the flat plate portion 32A located on the +X direction side and the -X direction side of the connecting groove 32F. The first locking portion 32H includes an arm portion 32J extending in the -Y direction on the +Z direction side relative to the first joint surface 32B and a protrusion 32K projecting in the -Z direction from the middle portion of the arm portion 32J.

[0141] A pair of first locked portions 32L extending outward in the X direction from the flat plate portion 32A are formed on both sides of the flat plate portion 32A located on the +X direction side and the -X direction side of the recess 32C. A protrusion 32M protruding in the -Z direction is formed on the first locked portion 32L.

[0142] like Fig.19 As shown, the first contact 33 is formed of a conductive and bent metal plate, and has a substantially rectangular wire connecting portion 33A extending along the XY plane and a pair of leg portions 33B bent in the -Z direction from the +X direction end and the -X direction end of the wire connecting portion 33A.

[0143] Furthermore, the first contact 33 includes an extension portion 33C that extends in the -Y direction after temporarily protruding in the +Z direction from the -Y direction end of the wire connecting portion 33A, and an arm portion 33D that further extends in the -Y direction from the extension portion 33C, and a first convex portion 33E that is curved so as to protrude in the +Z direction is formed at the -Y direction end of the arm portion 33D. The front end side contact portion S1 is formed by the surface on the +Z direction side of the first convex portion 33E, and the base end side contact portion S2 is formed by the surface on the +Z direction side of the extension portion 33C.

[0144] like Fig. 20As shown, in the first connector 31, the first contact 33 is held by the first insulator 32 by a pair of leg portions 33B of the first contact 33 being pressed into a recess 32C of the first insulator 32 forming a part of the first contact accommodation portion. In addition, a first waterproof sheet 34 made of a rubber material or the like is arranged on the surface of the first joint surface 32B of the first insulator 32, and the first contact 33 is exposed through an opening 34A of the first waterproof sheet 34.

[0145] The conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating portion CB near the −Y direction end portion of the first electric wire C1 is connected to the electric wire connecting portion 33A of the first contact 33 by welding, for example.

[0146] like Fig.21 As shown, the −Z direction portion of the insulation coating CB near the −Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodation groove 32D of the first insulator 32 via the first waterproof sheet 34 .

[0147] The first convex portion 33E of the first contact 33 is located on the +Z direction side of the first joint surface 32B of the first insulator 32 through the opening 34A of the first waterproof sheet 34 , and the front end side contact portion S1 faces the +Z direction.

[0148] Here, Fig. 22 The second connector 41 is shown to be fitted with the first connector 31. The second connector 41 has the same structure as the first connector 31, and is fitted with the first connector 31 in an inverse posture in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction relative to the first connector 31.

[0149] like Fig. 22 As shown, in the second connector 41, a pair of legs of the second contact 43 are pressed into a recess of the second insulator 42 that forms a part of the second contact accommodating portion, and the second contact 43 is retained in the second insulator 42, and a second waterproof sheet 44 is arranged on the surface of the second joint surface 42B of the second insulator 42.

[0150] The +Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the +Y direction end of the second electric wire C2 is accommodated in the second electric wire accommodating groove 42D of the second insulator 42 via the second waterproof sheet 44, and the conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating CB is connected to the electric wire connecting portion 43A of the second contact 43, for example by welding.

[0151] The second convex portion 43E of the second contact 43 is located on the −Z direction side of the second joint surface 42B of the second insulator 42 through the opening 44A of the second waterproof sheet 44 , and the front end side contact portion S1 faces the −Z direction.

[0152] In addition, the second insulator 42 of the second connector 41 has a second locking portion 42H and a second locked portion 42L described later having the same structure as the first locking portion 32H and the first locked portion 32L of the first insulator 32 of the first connector 31, the second locking portion 42H has a protrusion formed on the arm portion, and the second locked portion 42L has a protrusion.

[0153] When assembling the connector assembly of the second embodiment, first, Fig.23 As shown, the second connector 41 is overlapped on the +Z direction side of the first connector 31 in a posture that is opposite to the first connector 31 in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction. At this time, in a state where the second waterproof sheet 44 of the second connector 41 is in contact with the first waterproof sheet 34 of the first connector 31, the second insulator 42 of the second connector 41 is arranged at a position offset by a predetermined distance to the -Y direction side with respect to the first insulator 32 of the first connector 31.

[0154] Therefore, if Fig.24 As shown, the second locking portion 42H and the second locked portion 42L of the second connector 41 are respectively located further away from the first locked portion 32L and the first locking portion 32H of the first connector 31 in the -Y direction, and the first insulator 32 of the first connector 31 and the second insulator 42 of the second connector 41 are in a state where they are not yet locked to each other.

[0155] In addition, at this time, if Fig.25 As shown, the +Z direction portion of the insulating covering CB near the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is in a state that has not been fully accommodated in the first electric wire accommodating groove 42G of the second insulator 42, and the -Z direction portion of the insulating covering CB near the +Y direction end of the second electric wire C2 is in a state that has not been fully accommodated in the second electric wire accommodating groove 32G of the first insulator 32.

[0156] In this state, if the second connector 41 is slid relative to the first connector 31 in the +Y direction until the second insulator 42 of the second connector 41 and the first insulator 32 of the first connector 31 are in the same Y direction position, Fig.26 As shown, the front end side contact portion S1 of the first contact 33 and the base end side contact portion S2 of the second contact 43 are elastically in contact in the Z direction, and the front end side contact portion S1 of the second contact 43 and the base end side contact portion S2 of the first contact 33 are elastically in contact in the Z direction. As a result, the first contact 33 and the second contact 43 are in contact and electrically connected at two points separated from each other in the Y direction. As a result, the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are electrically connected to each other with good reliability via the first contact 33 and the second contact 43.

[0157] As a result, the first connector 31 and the second connector 41 are fitted with each other, and the assembly of the connector assembly is completed.

[0158] The second connector 41 slides relatively to the first connector 31 in the +Y direction until the second insulator 42 of the second connector 41 and the first insulator 32 of the first connector 31 are in the same Y direction position. Fig.15 As shown, the first locked portion 32L of the first insulator 32 is locked by the second locking portion 42H of the second insulator 42, and the second locked portion 42L of the second insulator 42 is locked by the first locking portion 32H of the first insulator 32, thereby the first insulator 32 and the second insulator 42 are fixed to each other.

[0159] Thus, if the first insulator 32 and the second insulator 42 are fixed to each other, the first waterproof sheet 34 arranged on the planar first joint surface 32B in a manner surrounding the first contact accommodating portion and the second waterproof sheet 44 arranged on the planar second joint surface 42B in a manner surrounding the second contact accommodating portion are pressed against each other in the Z direction and adhered tightly to each other.

[0160] In addition, if Fig.26 As shown, the -Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the -Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodating groove 32D of the first insulator 32 via the first waterproof sheet 34, and the +Z direction portion is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodating groove 42G of the second insulator 42 via the second waterproof sheet 44.

[0161] Similarly, the +Z direction portion of the insulating coating CB near the +Y direction end of the second wire C2 is accommodated in the second wire accommodating groove 42D of the second insulator 42 via the second waterproof sheet 44, and the -Z direction portion is accommodated in the second wire accommodating groove 32G of the first insulator 32 via the first waterproof sheet 34.

[0162] Therefore, it is possible to easily form a waterproof structure using the first waterproof sheet 34 and the second waterproof sheet 44 formed of a rubber material or the like.

[0163] In addition, if the second locked portion 42L of the second insulator 42 is locked by the first locking portion 32H of the first insulator 32, Fig. 27 As shown, the projection 32K of the arm portion 32J of the first locking portion 32H is hooked on the projection 42M of the second locked portion 42L. Although not shown, the projection of the arm portion of the second locking portion 42H is similarly hooked on the projection 32M of the first locked portion 32L. Thus, the second connector 41 in the mating state is effectively prevented from moving straight from the first connector 31 in the -Y direction, and the mating state is released.

[0164] In addition, for the first connector 31 and the second connector 41 in the engaged state, the first connector 31 and the second connector 41 can be detached from each other by sliding straight in the direction opposite to the engaging operation only with the force of the protrusion 32K of the first locking part 32H and the protrusion of the second locking part 42H respectively crossing over the protrusion 42M of the second locked part 42L and the protrusion 32M of the first locked part 32L.

[0165] Implementation 3

[0166] Figure 28 to Figure 30 The connector assembly of Embodiment 3 is shown. The connector assembly includes a first connector 51 and a second connector 61, and the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are engaged with each other by rotating and sliding the second connector 61 relative to the first connector 51 about the rotation axis RA, thereby electrically connecting the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2.

[0167] The first connector 51 is connected to the +Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, and the second connector 61 is connected to the -Y direction end of the second electric wire C2. The first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are the same as the electric wires used in the first and second embodiments, and each constitutes a covered electric wire whose outer periphery of the conductor part CA is covered by the insulating coating part CB, and extends in opposite directions along the same straight line.

[0168] The first connector 51 includes a first insulator 52 having a substantially disk shape, and the second connector 61 also includes a second insulator 62 having a substantially disk shape. The first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are fitted to each other in a state where the second insulator 62 is superimposed on the first insulator 52 .

[0169] In addition, the rotation axis RA passes through the centers of the first and second insulators 52 and 62 having substantially disk shapes, and extends in the Z direction.

[0170] Fig.31 The connector assembly of the third embodiment is shown in a state before mating. The first connector 51 and the second connector 61 have the same structure and are formed as hermaphrodites. When the second connector 61 starts mating with the first connector 51, it is in a state rotated by a predetermined angle on the XY plane relative to the first connector 51, but when the mating is completed, it becomes a reverse posture in the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction relative to the first connector 51.

[0171] Fig.32 1 shows an assembly diagram of the first connector 51. A first waterproof sheet 54 is disposed on the +Z direction side of the first insulator 52, a first electric wire C1 is disposed on the +Z direction side of the first waterproof sheet 54, and a first contact 53 is disposed on the +Z direction side of the first electric wire C1.

[0172] When viewed from the +Z direction, the first waterproof sheet 54 has a ring shape with a circular opening 54A formed at the center. In addition, at the +Y direction end of the first electric wire C1, the conductor portion CA is exposed by removing the insulating coating portion CB, and the exposed conductor portion CA of the first electric wire C1 is located on the +Z direction side of the opening 54A of the first waterproof sheet 54, and the first contact 53 is located on the +Z direction side of the exposed conductor portion CA of the first electric wire C1.

[0173] like Fig.33 As shown, the first insulator 52 is formed of insulating resin and has a substantially circular disk portion 52A extending along the XY plane. The disk portion 52A has a planar first joint surface 52B facing the +Z direction and a concave first contact accommodating portion 52C formed on the first joint surface 52B and open in the +Z direction.

[0174] The first contact accommodation portion 52C is formed at the center of the circular plate portion 52A, and accommodates and holds the first contact 53. The first contact accommodation portion 52C is formed with a pair of press-fit holes 52D into which a part of the first contact 53 is press-fitted.

[0175] Furthermore, a first wire accommodating groove 52E extending in the Y direction from the first contact accommodating portion 52C to the −Y direction end portion of the circular plate portion 52A is formed in the first joint surface 52B.

[0176] A pair of first locking portions 52F protruding in the +Z direction are formed on the side of the circular plate portion 52A. The pair of first locking portions 52F are located on the same diameter of the circular plate portion 52A and are opposite to each other, and each has an arm portion 52G extending along the circumferential direction of the circular plate portion 52A on the +Z direction side relative to the first joint surface 52B. The arm portions 52G of the pair of first locking portions 52F extend in the same rotation direction relative to the center of the circular plate portion 52A, and are bent along the circumferential direction of the circular plate portion 52A.

[0177] Furthermore, a protrusion 52H that protrudes in the −Z direction is formed at an intermediate portion of the arm portion 52G in the circumferential direction of the circular plate portion 52A.

[0178] Furthermore, a pair of reduced diameter portions 52J are formed on the side of the circular plate portion 52A, adjacent to the pair of first locking portions 52F and recessed toward the center of the plate portion 52A. The reduced diameter portions 52J extend from the -Z direction side of the arm portion 52G of the corresponding first locking portion 52F along the circumferential direction of the circular plate portion 52A to a rotation position beyond the front end of the arm portion 52G.

[0179] like Fig.34As shown, the first contact 53 is formed of a conductive and bent metal plate, and has a wire connecting portion 53A extending slenderly in the Y direction along the XY plane and a pair of extension portions 53B extending from the +Y direction end and the -Y direction end of the wire connecting portion 53A along the XY plane.

[0180] The extension portion 53B connected to the +Y direction end of the wire connection portion 53A extends from the +Y direction end of the wire connection portion 53A along the XY plane in the -X direction and then extends in the -Y direction. A first convex portion 53C is formed at the -Y direction end so as to be curved and protrude in the +Z direction.

[0181] On the other hand, the extension portion 53B connected to the -Y direction end of the wire connection portion 53A extends from the -Y direction end of the wire connection portion 53A along the XY plane in the +X direction and then extends in the +Y direction, and a first protrusion 53C is formed at the +Y direction end so as to protrude in the +Z direction.

[0182] Furthermore, the first contact 53 has a pair of press-fit portions 53D extending in the -Z direction from the +Y direction end portion and the -Y direction end portion of the wire connecting portion 53A, respectively.

[0183] like Fig.35 As shown, in the first connector 51 , a first waterproof sheet 54 made of a rubber material or the like is arranged on the surface of the first joint surface 52B of the first insulator 52 .

[0184] The conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating portion CB near the +Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is connected to the surface of the wire connecting portion 53A on the -Z direction side of the first contact 53 by, for example, welding, and the first contact 53 is accommodated in the first contact accommodating portion 52C of the first insulator 52. The first contact 53 is fixed to the first insulator 52 by the pair of press-fit portions 53D being pressed into the pair of press-fit holes 52D of the first contact accommodating portion 52C.

[0185] Furthermore, the insulating coating portion CB of the first electric wire C1 connected to the surface of the electric wire connecting portion 53A of the first contact 53 on the −Z direction side is accommodated in the first waterproof sheet 54. Fig.33 The first insulator 52 is shown in the first wire receiving groove 52E.

[0186] like Fig.36 As shown, a pair of first protrusions 53C formed on a pair of extension portions 53B of the first contact 53 are respectively arranged on the +Z direction side of the first contact accommodating portion 52C of the first insulator 52 through the opening portion 54A of the first waterproof sheet 54, and are located closer to the +Z direction side than the first joint surface 52B.

[0187] Here, Fig.37The second connector 61 is shown to be fitted with the first connector 51. The second connector 61 has the same structure as the first connector 51, and is fitted with the first connector 51 in an inverse posture with respect to the first connector 51 in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction.

[0188] In the second connector 61 , the second contacts 63 are accommodated in the second contact accommodation portions 62C of the second insulator 62 , and the second waterproof sheet 64 is arranged on the surface of the second joint surface 62B of the second insulator 62 .

[0189] The conductor portion CA exposed from the insulating coating portion CB near the −Y direction end portion of the second electric wire C2 is connected to the second contact 63 by welding, for example, and the second contact 63 is accommodated in the second contact accommodation portion 62C of the second insulator 62 .

[0190] The pair of second protrusions 63C formed on the pair of extensions 63B of the second contacts 63 are arranged on the −Z direction side of the second contact accommodating portion 62C of the second insulator 62 through the opening 64A of the second waterproof sheet 64 and are located closer to the −Z direction side than the second joint surface 62B.

[0191] The second insulator 62 of the second connector 61 has a pair of second locking portions 62F having the same structure as the first locking portions 52F of the first insulator 52 of the first connector 51 , and each second locking portion 62F has a protrusion 62H formed on an arm portion 62G described later.

[0192] When assembling the connector assembly of the third embodiment, first, Fig.38 As shown, the second connector 61 is overlapped on the +Z direction side of the first connector 51 in a posture that is reversed in the Z direction relative to the first connector 51. The second electric wire C2 connected is in a rotation position extending from the Y direction to a direction rotated by a predetermined angle around the rotation axis RA, and the arm portion 62G of the second locking portion 62F of the second insulator 62 is located along the outer periphery of the reduced diameter portion 52J of the first insulator 52, and the arm portion 52G of the first locking portion 52F of the first insulator 52 is located along the outer periphery of the reduced diameter portion 62J of the second insulator 62. In this state, the second connector 61 can be overlapped on the +Z direction side of the first connector 51.

[0193] At this time, if Fig.39 As shown, the arm portion 52G of the first locking portion 52F and the arm portion 62G of the second locking portion 62F are located at different rotational positions in the rotation direction centered on the rotation axis RA, and the first insulator 52 of the first connector 51 and the second insulator 62 of the second connector 61 are not yet locked to each other.

[0194] In addition, at this time, if Fig.40As shown, the second contacts 63 of the second connector 61 are located away from the first contacts 53 in the rotation direction about the rotation axis RA and have not yet come into contact with the first contacts 53 of the first connector 51 .

[0195] Furthermore, since the second connector 61 is overlapped on the +Z direction side of the first connector 51 , the second waterproof sheet 64 of the second connector 61 is in contact with the first waterproof sheet 54 of the first connector 51 .

[0196] In this state, if the second connector 61 is rotated and slid relative to the first connector 51 around the rotation axis RA until the direction in which the second electric wire C2 connected to the second connector 61 extends becomes the Y direction, Fig.41 As shown, the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 move relatively until the first convex portion 53C of the first contact 53 and the second convex portion 63C of the second contact 63 pass over each other, and the pair of first convex portions 53C of the first contact 53 elastically contacts the pair of second convex portions 63C of the second contact 63. As a result, the first contact 53 and the second contact 63 contact and are electrically connected at two points separated from each other. As a result, the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are electrically connected to each other with good reliability via the first contact 53 and the second contact 63.

[0197] As a result, the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are fitted into each other, and the assembly of the connector assembly is completed.

[0198] By rotating and sliding the second connector 61 relative to the first connector 51 around the rotation axis RA until the direction in which the second electric wire C2 connected to the second connector 61 extends becomes the Y direction, Fig.30 As shown, the arm portion 52G of the first locking portion 52F of the first insulator 52 and the arm portion 62G of the second locking portion 62F of the second insulator 62 are at positions overlapping each other in the Z direction. As a result, the first locking portion 52F and the second locking portion 62F interfere with each other, and the first insulator 52 and the second insulator 62 are locked and fixed to each other.

[0199] Thus, if the first insulator 52 and the second insulator 62 are fixed to each other, the first waterproof sheet 54 arranged on the planar first joint surface 52B in a manner surrounding the first contact accommodating portion 52C and the second waterproof sheet 64 arranged on the planar second joint surface 62B in a manner surrounding the second contact accommodating portion 62C are pressed against each other in the Z direction and are in close contact with each other.

[0200] Furthermore, the insulating coating CB near the +Y direction end of the first electric wire C1 is accommodated in the first electric wire accommodation groove 52E of the first insulator 52 via the first waterproof sheet 54. In addition, the second insulator 62 has a second electric wire accommodation groove similar to the first insulator 52, which is formed on the second joint surface 62B and extends from the second contact accommodation portion 62C to the +Y direction end of the second insulator 62 in the Y direction, and the insulating coating CB near the -Y direction end of the second electric wire C2 is accommodated in the second electric wire accommodation groove of the second insulator 62 via the second waterproof sheet 64.

[0201] Therefore, it is possible to easily form a waterproof structure using the first waterproof sheet 54 and the second waterproof sheet 64 formed of a rubber material or the like.

[0202] In addition, if the first insulator 52 and the second insulator 62 are locked to each other, Fig.42 As shown, the projection 62H of the arm 62G of the second lock portion 62F is hooked on the projection 52H of the arm 52G of the first lock portion 52F. This effectively prevents the second connector 61 in the mated state from rotating relative to the first connector 51 around the rotation axis RA to release the mated state.

[0203] In addition, when the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 are engaged with each other, the first protrusion 53C of the first contact 53 and the second protrusion 63C of the second contact 63 are in a state of crossing over each other. Therefore, the first protrusion 53C and the second protrusion 63C interfere with each other, thereby preventing the second connector 61 from deviating from the first connector 51 in the -Y direction and releasing the engaged state.

[0204] In the third embodiment, the first contact 53 has a pair of first protrusions 53C and the second contact 63 has a pair of second protrusions 63C, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first contact 53 may have a single first protrusion 53C and the second contact 63 may have a single second protrusion 63C that are in elastic contact in the Z direction.

[0205] However, as in the third embodiment, if the first contact 53 and the second contact 63 are configured to be in contact at two points by means of the pair of first convex portions 53C and the pair of second convex portions 63C, the reliability of the electrical connection can be improved.

[0206] In addition, for the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 in the engaged state, the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 can be disengaged from each other by rotating and sliding the first connector 51 and the second connector 61 in the direction opposite to the engaging operation only with the force of the protrusion 52H of the first locking portion 52F passing over the protrusion 62H of the second locking portion 62F.

[0207] In the connector assembly of the above-mentioned embodiments 1-3, the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 are electrically connected to each other using the first connector 11, 31, 51 and the second connector 21, 41, 61, so the connection and disconnection of the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 can be easily switched only by engaging and disassembling the first connector 11, 31, 51 and the second connector 21, 41, 61.

[0208] Furthermore, the first connector 11, 31, 51 and the second connector 21, 41, 61 have the same structure as each other and are formed as hermaphrodites, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the connector assembly. In addition, the connectors connected to the ends of the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 will not be mistaken, and the electrical connection between the first electric wire C1 and the second electric wire C2 can be reliably performed.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising a first connector and a second connector that are engaged with each other, wherein the first connector is connected to an end of a first electric wire, and the second connector is connected to an end of a second electric wire and has the same structure as the first connector, characterized in that: The first connector includes a first insulator, a first contact held by the first insulator and connected to an end of the first electric wire, and a first waterproof sheet. The second connector includes a second insulator, a second contact held by the second insulator and connected to an end of the second electric wire, and a second waterproof sheet. The first insulator has a planar first joint surface and a concave first contact accommodating portion formed on the first joint surface and accommodating the first contact. The second insulator has a planar second joint surface opposite to the first joint surface and a concave second contact accommodating portion formed on the second joint surface and accommodating the second contact. The first waterproof sheet is arranged on the first joint surface in a manner of surrounding the first contact accommodating portion. The second waterproof sheet is arranged on the second joint surface in a manner of surrounding the second contact accommodating portion. When the first connector and the second connector are mated with each other, the first waterproof sheet and the second waterproof sheet are sandwiched between the first joint surface and the second joint surface and are tightly attached to each other, the first contact and the second contact are in contact with each other, and the first wire and the second wire are electrically connected to each other.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first electric wire and the second electric wire are each composed of a coated electric wire in which the outer periphery of a conductor portion is covered by an insulating coating portion. The conductor portion at the end of the first electric wire is connected to the first contact in the first contact accommodation portion. The conductor portion in the end portion of the second electric wire is connected to the second contact in the second contact accommodation portion.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The first insulator has a first wire accommodating groove, which is formed on the first joint surface in a manner communicating with the first contact accommodating portion and accommodates the insulating coating portion of the first wire. The second insulator has a second wire accommodating groove, which is formed on the second joint surface in a manner communicating with the second contact accommodating portion and accommodates the insulating coating portion of the second wire. The first waterproof sheet is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the first wire accommodating groove and a portion of the first wire. The second waterproof sheet is sandwiched between a bottom surface of the second wire accommodating groove and a portion of the second wire.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first connector and the second connector are fitted to each other by pressing the second connector relative to the first connector in a direction orthogonal to the first joint surface and the second joint surface.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first connector and the second connector are fitted with each other by relatively moving along the second joint surface and the first joint surface.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first contact has a first protrusion protruding toward the second connector, The second contact has a second protrusion protruding toward the first connector, The first connector and the second connector move relatively to each other until the first protrusion and the second protrusion pass over each other.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first connector and the second connector move relative to each other in a mutually linear sliding manner.

8. The connector assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The first connector and the second connector move relative to each other in a rotating and sliding manner.

9. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The first insulator has a first locking portion and a first locked portion. The second insulator has a second locking portion and a second locked portion, When the first connector and the second connector are fitted with each other, the first locked portion is locked by the second locking portion, and the second locked portion is locked by the first locking portion, so that the first insulator and the second insulator are fixed to each other.

10. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The first insulator has a first locking portion, The second insulator has a second locking portion, When the first connector and the second connector are fitted with each other, the first locking portion and the second locking portion interfere with each other, so that the first insulator and the second insulator are fixed to each other.

11. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The first contact and the second contact are in contact with each other at two points.

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