Connector, connector assembly and connecting device

Abstract

The connector is provided with a shield which is in contact with a counterpart shield of a counterpart connector in a fitted state in which the connector and the counterpart connector are fitted. The shield includes an outer wall, an inner wall having an inner facing portion, and a connecting portion connecting the outer wall and the inner wall. The connecting portion has an inner connecting portion connected to the inner facing portion. The inner connection portion has an inner bent portion bent so as to bulge toward the inner side of the connector. A step is formed on the outer surface of the inner bent part through the first part and the second part. A part of the first part is located at a position closer to the inner side of the connector than the second part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to connectors, connector assemblies, and connection devices, and more particularly, to connectors for mating with a mating connector on the other side, connector assemblies including the connectors, and connection devices including the connectors. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an electrical connector kit. The electrical connector kit includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is mounted on a first circuit board. The second connector is mounted on a second circuit board and is matingly engageable with the first connector in an insertion / removal direction.

[0003] The first connector has a first connection terminal, a first high-frequency connection terminal, and a first external ground member. The first high-frequency connection terminal transmits high-frequency signals having a frequency higher than that of the signals transmitted by the first connection terminal. The first external ground member is a conductor connected to a ground potential and surrounds the first high-frequency connection terminal.

[0004] The second connector has a second connection terminal, a second high-frequency connection terminal, and a second external ground member. The second connection terminal is electrically connected to the first connection terminal during mating. The second high-frequency connection terminal is electrically connected to the first high-frequency connection terminal during mating. The second external ground member is a conductor connected to a ground potential, surrounds the second high-frequency connection terminal, and is electrically connected to the first external ground member during mating.

[0005] When the first connector and the second connector are mated, when viewed from above in the insertion / removal direction, the second external ground member is located inside the first external ground member. In addition, the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are located outside the first external ground member, and the second external ground member is closed in a circumferential shape so as to surround the first high-frequency connection terminal and the second high-frequency connection terminal.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2020 / 040004 Summary of the Invention

[0009] In a connector such as that used in the electrical connector kit of Patent Document 1, it is desired that the mated state with the mating connector on the other side is not inadvertently released.

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a connector, a connector assembly including the connector, and a connection device that can easily maintain the mated state with the mating connector on the other side.

[0011] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a connector that mates with a mating connector having a mating-side shield. The connector includes a housing, terminals, and a shield. The terminals are held by the housing. The shield is held by the housing so as to circumferentially surround the terminals. The shield is configured to contact the mating-side shield in a mated state where the connector and the mating connector are mated. The connector is configured to be connected to the mating connector by moving toward the mating connector. The shield has an outer wall, an inner wall, and a connecting portion. The outer wall has an outer opposing portion. The inner wall has an inner opposing portion. The inner wall is located closer to the inside of the connector than the outer wall. The connecting portion connects the outer wall and the inner wall. The connecting portion has an inner connecting portion connected to the inner opposing portion, an outer connecting portion connected to the outer opposing portion, and an upper connecting portion. The inner connecting portion has an inner bending portion that bulges and bends toward the inside of the connector. The outer connecting portion has an outer bending portion that bulges and bends toward the outside of the connector. The upper connecting portion connects the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion. The inner bending portion and the outer bending portion are connected via the upper connecting portion. The outer opposing portion and the inner opposing portion face each other with a gap therebetween. The outer surface of the inner bending portion has a first portion and a second portion. The second portion is continuous with the first portion. A step is formed by the first portion and the second portion. A part of the first portion protrudes more toward the inside of the connector than the second portion.

[0012] A connector assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the connector and the mating connector.

[0013] A connecting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the connector and a circuit board to which the connector is connected.

[0014] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0015] According to the present disclosure, a connector that can easily maintain a mated state with a mating connector, a connector assembly including the connector, and a connecting device can be obtained. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 is a top view of the connector assembly in the mated state.

[0018] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first connector in the connector assembly.

[0019] Figure 4Is a perspective view of the first housing in the first connector described above.

[0020] Figure 5 Is a perspective view of the first terminal and the first inner shield in the first connector described above.

[0021] Figure 6 Is a perspective view of the first outer shield in the first connector described above.

[0022] Figure 7 Is a top view of the circuit pattern of the first circuit board connected to the first connector described above.

[0023] Figure 8 Is a perspective view of the second housing in the second connector described above.

[0024] Figure 9 Is a perspective view of the second terminal and the second inner shield in the second connector described above.

[0025] Figure 10 Is a perspective view of the second outer shield in the second connector described above.

[0026] Figure 11 Is a perspective view of the main part of the second outer shield described above.

[0027] Figure 12 Is a bottom view of the circuit pattern of the second circuit board connected to the second connector described above.

[0028] Figure 13A Is Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the main part corresponding to the A-A line of

[0029] Figure 13B Is Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the main part corresponding to the B-B line of

[0030] Figure 14 Is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly at the part corresponding to the XV-XV line in the state where the connector assembly described above is disassembled Figure 2 of

[0031] Figure 15 Is Figure 2 A sectional view along the XV-XV line of

[0032] Figure 16 Is Figure 2 A sectional view along the XVI-XVI line of

[0033] Figure 17 Is Figure 2 A sectional view along the XVII-XVII line of

[0034] Figure 18 is Figure 2 the sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII.

[0035] Figure 19 is Figure 2 the sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX.

[0036] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the first outer shield in the first connector of the connector assembly according to Modification 1.

[0037] Figure 21 is a perspective view of the second outer shield in the second connector of the connector assembly according to Modification 2. Detailed implementation mode

[0038] Hereinafter, the connector, the connector assembly, and the connection device according to the implementation mode will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the following implementation mode is only one of the various implementation modes of the present disclosure. As long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved, the following implementation mode can be variously changed according to design and the like. In addition, the drawings described in the following implementation mode are schematic drawings, and the ratio of the sizes and thicknesses of the respective components in the drawings does not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio.

[0039] (1)Overview

[0040] As Figure 1 shown, the connector assembly 100 of the present implementation mode includes a first connector 1 (opposite-side connector) and a second connector 5 (connector). The connector assembly 100 is used, for example, to electrically connect between a plurality of circuit boards mounted in a portable terminal such as a smartphone. The first connector 1 is mounted, for example, on a first circuit board 91 such as a printed wiring board or a flexible printed wiring board in an antenna module (AiP; Antenna in Package) (refer to Figures 14 - 19 ). The second connector 5 is mounted, for example, on a second circuit board 92 such as a printed wiring board or a flexible printed wiring board (refer to Figures 14 - 19 ). In addition, the use of the connector assembly 100 is not limited thereto. The connector assembly 100 can also be used, for example, in electronic devices other than portable terminals such as camera modules. In addition, the use of the connector assembly 100 is not limited to the use of electrically connecting between a plurality of circuit boards. As long as it is, for example, a use of electrically connecting between a plurality of components such as between a circuit board and a display, between a circuit board and a battery, etc. In addition, in the drawings other than Figures 14 - 19 for convenience, the illustration of the first circuit board 91 and the second circuit board 92 is omitted.

[0041] The second connector 5 is the connector of the present disclosure. The second connector 5 is fitted with the first connector 1. Accordingly, the first connector 1 is the mating connector of the second connector 5 (connector).

[0042] As Figure 1 shown, the second connector 5 is configured to move relative to the first connector 1 in one direction along the first axis A1 toward the first connector 1, thereby being fitted with the first connector 1. Hereinafter, the direction (the direction along the first axis A1) in which the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted is sometimes referred to as the vertical direction. Further, hereinafter, the side where the first connector 1 is located when the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted in the vertical direction is sometimes referred to as "upper", and the side where the second connector 5 is located is sometimes referred to as "lower". That is, the second connector 5 is configured to move relative to the first connector 1 upward along the first axis A1 toward the first connector, thereby being connected to the first connector 1. However, the definition of these directions is not intended to limit the usage mode of the connector assembly 100. Further, hereinafter, the state in which the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted (refer to Figure 2 ) is referred to as the "fitted state".

[0043] Further, hereinafter, the two axes orthogonal to the first axis A1 are referred to as the second axis A2 and the third axis A3. As Figure 1 shown, the second axis A2 is the axis along the short side direction of the connector assembly 100. The third axis A3 is the axis along the long side direction of the connector assembly 100.

[0044] As Figure 1 shown, the second connector 5 includes a housing (second housing 6), terminals (second terminals 7), and a shielding body (second outer shielding body 81). The second terminals 7 are held by the second housing 6. The second outer shielding body 81 is held by the second housing 6 so as to surround the second terminals 7 in the circumferential direction. In the present disclosure, the so-called "circumferential direction" means the direction along the outer periphery of the connector. For example, when focusing on the second horizontal shielding body 810 among the second outer shielding bodies 81, the circumferential direction means the direction along the third axis A3. Further, when focusing on the second vertical shielding body 820 among the second outer shielding bodies 81, the circumferential direction means the direction along the second axis A2.

[0045] As Figure 1 , Figure 10 , Figure 13A , Figure 13BAs shown, the second outer shield 81 has an inner wall 801, a connecting portion 802, and an outer wall 803. The outer wall 803 has an outer opposing portion 895. The inner wall 801 has an inner opposing portion 865. The inner wall 801 is located on the inner side of the second connector 5 closer than the outer wall 803. In the present disclosure, the "inner side of the connector" means the side closer to the center of the connector when viewed along the first axis A1. The connecting portion 802 connects the outer wall 803 and the inner wall 801.

[0046] As Figure 13A , Figure 13B shown, the connecting portion 802 has an inner connecting portion 806, an outer connecting portion 809, and an upper connecting portion 808. The inner connecting portion 806 is connected to the inner opposing portion 865. The inner connecting portion 806 has an inner bending portion 860 that bulges and bends toward the inner side of the second connector 5. The outer connecting portion 809 is connected to the outer opposing portion 895. The outer connecting portion 809 has an outer bending portion 890 that bulges and bends toward the outer side of the second connector 5. The upper connecting portion 808 connects the inner connecting portion 806 and the outer connecting portion 809. The inner bending portion 860 and the outer bending portion 890 are arranged with the upper connecting portion 808 interposed therebetween on an axis (second axis A2 or third axis A3) orthogonal to the first axis A1. The outer opposing portion 895 and the inner opposing portion 865 oppose each other with a gap on an axis (second axis A2 or third axis A3) orthogonal to the first axis A1.

[0047] As Figure 11 shown, the outer surface of the inner bending portion 860 has a first portion 871 and a second portion 872. In the present disclosure, the "outer surface" of the shield held by the housing means the surface away from the housing among the surface close to the housing and the surface away from the housing. The second portion 872 is continuous with the first portion 871 via a step in the circumferential direction. The first portion 871 protrudes more toward the inner side of the second connector 5 than the second portion 872.

[0048] In the second connector 5 (connector) of the present embodiment, the outer surface of the inner bending portion 860 has a second portion 872 and a first portion 871 that protrudes more toward the inner side of the second connector 5 than the second portion 872. Thus, in the second outer shield 81 (shield), a protruding portion 88 is formed in a portion corresponding to the first portion 871. Therefore, in the second connector 5 of the present embodiment, for example, by engaging the protruding portion 88 with a recess of the first outer shield 41 (opposing side shield) of the first connector 1 (opposing side connector), it is possible to prevent the engaged state from being accidentally released. That is, the second connector 5 (connector) of the present embodiment has the advantage of easily maintaining the engaged state with the first connector 1 (opposing side connector).

[0049] In addition, in the second outer shield 81 of the second connector 5 of the present embodiment, at least a part of the protruding portion 88 is formed in the inner bent portion 860 (the portion corresponding to the first portion 871). Here, for example, when the protruding portion is formed only on the unbent wall portion (for example, the inner wall 801), it is necessary to cut up a part of the wall portion or, for example, join other members to the surface of the wall portion by welding or the like to form the protruding portion. When the protruding portion is formed by cutting, a gap (space) is formed between the protruding portion and other surrounding portions, and the shielding property may deteriorate. In addition, when the protruding portion is formed by joining other members, processes such as preparation and joining of other members are required. On the other hand, when at least a part of the protruding portion 88 is formed in the inner bent portion 860 as in the second outer shield 81 of the present embodiment, the protruding portion 88 can be formed by rolling a portion other than the protruding portion 88 and including the inner bent portion 860. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a decrease in shielding property and simplify the process. In addition, by forming at least a part of the protruding portion 88 in the inner bent portion 860, the size of the first axis A1 of the wall portion can be reduced compared to the case where the entire protruding portion 88 is formed on the wall portion (for example, the inner wall 801), and the height of the first axis A1 of the connector assembly 100 in the state where the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted can be reduced.

[0050] (2) Details

[0051] Hereinafter, the connector assembly 100, the first connector 1 (opposite-side connector), the second connector 5 (connector), the first connection device 101, and the second connection device 102 (connection device) of the present embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0052] (2.1) First Connector

[0053] The first connector 1 is a head (plug connector) and, as Figures 3 - 6 shown, includes a first housing 2, a plurality (here, eight) of first terminals 3, and a first shield 4. In Figures 3 - 6 , for convenience, the first connector 1 is illustrated with its top and bottom flipped.

[0054] (2.1.1) First Housing

[0055] As Figure 4 shown, the first housing 2 is formed of an insulating resin material into a flat shape that is long along the third axis A3. In the first housing 2, both sides of the second axis A2 at the central portion of the third axis A3 are cut away in a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the first axis A1. When viewed from the first axis A1 (hereinafter, also referred to as "top view"), the first housing 2 is formed in a substantially H shape.

[0056] As Figure 4 shown, the first housing 2 has a first inner bottom wall 21, a first inner peripheral wall 22, a first outer bottom wall 23, a first outer peripheral wall 24, and a pair of holding walls 25. The first inner bottom wall 21, the first inner peripheral wall 22, the first outer bottom wall 23, the first outer peripheral wall 24, and the pair of holding walls 25 are integrally formed.

[0057] The first inner bottom wall 21 is a rectangular plate-like shape that is long along the third axis A3.

[0058] The first inner peripheral wall 22 protrudes downward (toward the upper side of Figure 4 ) from the peripheral edge of the first inner bottom wall 21 and is in the shape of a rectangular frame in plan view. Specifically, the first inner peripheral wall 22 includes a pair of first horizontal inner side walls 221 and a pair of first vertical inner side walls 222. The pair of first horizontal inner side walls 221 are a pair of walls that are long along the third axis A3 among the first inner peripheral wall 22. The pair of first vertical inner side walls 222 are a pair of walls that are long along the second axis A2 among the first inner peripheral wall 22. The portion surrounded by the inner bottom surface of the first inner bottom wall 21 and the inner side surface of the first inner peripheral wall 22 constitutes the first fitting recess 201 into which the second connector 5 is fitted. Specifically, the base portion 65 of the second connector 5 is fitted into the first fitting recess 201.

[0059] The first outer bottom wall 23 is composed of four partial bottom walls that extend in a rectangular shape from the four corners of the first inner bottom wall 21 toward the outside of the second axis A2 and the third axis A3, respectively.

[0060] The first outer peripheral wall 24 protrudes downward from the peripheral edge of the first outer bottom wall 23 so as to surround the first inner peripheral wall 22. The first outer peripheral wall 24 has four first outer side walls 240. The four first outer side walls 240 correspond one by one to the four partial bottom walls of the first outer bottom wall 23. The four first outer side walls 240 are each in the shape of an L in plan view. Specifically, the four first outer side walls 240 each have a first vertical outer side wall 241 and a first horizontal outer side wall 242. The first vertical outer side wall 241 is a wall that is long along the second axis A2 among the first outer side walls 240. The first horizontal outer side wall 242 is a wall that is long along the third axis A3 among the first outer side walls 240. The four first outer side walls 240 are each formed along the outer peripheral edge of the corresponding partial bottom wall.

[0061] A pair of holding walls 25 are integrally formed with a pair of first vertical inner side walls 222 at both ends of the first inner peripheral wall 22 on the third axis A3. The pair of holding walls 25 are each in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. Recesses 251 for arranging the first specific terminals 31 are formed on the pair of holding walls 25 respectively so as to reach their lower surfaces, the surfaces on the outside of the third axis A3, and the surfaces on one side of the second axis A2.

[0062] On the second axis A2, both side surfaces of each of a pair of holding walls 25 on both sides of the second axis A2 face the inner surfaces of the first horizontal outer walls 242 of the two first outer side walls 240. The portion surrounded by the side surface of the held wall 25, the inner bottom surface of the first outer bottom wall 23, and the inner surface of the first outer peripheral wall 24 constitutes a second fitting recess 202 into which the second connector 5 is fitted. Specifically, in the second fitting recess 202, the second inner peripheral wall 62 of the second connector 5 is fitted.

[0063] The first housing 2 holds a plurality of first terminals 3 and a first shield 4.

[0064] In the present embodiment, some (6) of the plurality of (8) first terminals 3 (first connection terminals 32) are provided on a pair of first horizontal inner walls 221. Specifically, three first connection terminals 32 are held on each of the pair of first horizontal inner walls 221. The first connection terminals 32 are accommodated in recesses provided in the first horizontal inner walls 221. In addition, the remaining first terminals 3 (first specific terminals 31) among the plurality of (8) first terminals 3 are accommodated in recesses 251 formed in a pair of holding walls 25.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the first outer shield 41 sandwiches the first outer peripheral wall 24. In addition, in the present embodiment, the first inner shield 45 among the first shields 4 is accommodated in a groove hole 26 formed in the first housing 2.

[0066] (2.1.2) First Terminal

[0067] The first terminal 3 (the other-side terminal) is a terminal for signal transmission and is formed by bending a strip-shaped metal plate. In addition, metal plating is applied to the first terminal 3.

[0068] The plurality of first terminals 3 include one or more first specific terminals 31. In addition, the plurality of first terminals 3 include terminals other than one or more first specific terminals 31 (first connection terminals 32). Here, two of the eight first terminals 3 are first specific terminals 31, and the remaining six are first connection terminals 32.

[0069] The two first specific terminals 31 are arranged on both sides of the third axis A3 within the first connector 1. The two first specific terminals 31 are respectively held by a pair of holding walls 25.

[0070] The six first connection terminals 32 are arranged on the third axis A3, in the region between the two first specific terminals 31, and are divided into three each and arranged along the third axis A3 on both sides of the second axis A2. Three of the six first connection terminals 32 are held on each of the pair of first horizontal inner walls 221.

[0071] For example, the first specific terminal 31 is a terminal for transmitting a signal with a relatively high frequency. The two first specific terminals 31 have the same shape as each other. For example, in one of the two first specific terminals 31, a signal current flows from the first circuit board 91 toward the second circuit board 92. In the other of the two first specific terminals 31, a signal current flows from the second circuit board 92 toward the first circuit board 91.

[0072] The first connection terminal 32 is a terminal for transmitting a signal with a relatively low frequency. Some or all of the plurality of (for example, six) first connection terminals 32 may be terminals for transmitting power. Here, the six first connection terminals 32 have the same shape as each other. The first connection terminals 32 may also be terminals having different shapes.

[0073] (2.1.2.1) The first specific terminal

[0074] As Figure 5 shown, the first specific terminal 31 is formed integrally with a holding piece 311, a terminal piece 312, a first contact piece 313, and a connecting piece 314.

[0075] The holding piece 311 is the part mainly held by the first housing 2 in the first specific terminal 31. As Figure 5 shown, the holding piece 311 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the third axis A3. A pair of holding protrusions for the first housing 2 to hold the first specific terminal 31 are formed on end faces on both sides of the second axis A2 of the holding piece 311. The holding piece 311 protrudes upward in the first axis A1 from the side end (the outer end on the third axis A3) of the connecting piece 314.

[0076] The terminal piece 312 is a flat plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. The terminal piece 312 protrudes along the third axis A3 from the upper end face of the holding piece 311. The width dimension (the dimension in the second axis A2) of the terminal piece 312 is one level smaller than the width dimension of the part of the holding piece 311 where the holding protrusions are formed. As Figure 1 shown, one surface (the upper surface) of the terminal piece 312 is exposed on the upper surface of the first outer bottom wall 23 of the first housing 2.

[0077] The first contact piece 313 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. The first contact piece 313 protrudes upward in the first axis A1 from one end of the connecting piece 314 in the second axis A2. As Figure 3 shown, the surface on the outer side of the second axis A2 of the first contact piece 313 is exposed in the second fitting recess 202 of the first housing 2. The first contact piece 313 has a first contact 315 (a recess) configured to contact the second specific terminal 71. The first contact 315 is located on the outer surface of the first contact piece 313 that is exposed in the second fitting recess 202.

[0078] The connecting piece 314 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. The connecting piece 314 connects the holding piece 311 and the first contact piece 313. Specifically, the holding piece 311 is connected to the outer end on the third axis A3 of the connecting piece 314, and the terminal piece 312 is connected to one end on the second axis A2 of the connecting piece 314.

[0079] The first specific terminal 31 is held by the first housing 2, for example, by pressing the holding piece 311 into a groove outside the third axis A3 of the recess 251 of the holding wall 25 of the first housing 2 (see Figure 3 ). In a state where the first connector 1 is not fitted to the second connector, the first contact piece 313 can also be separated from the holding wall 25 (the bottom surface of the groove of the recess 251) of the first housing 2 on the second axis A2.

[0080] As Figure 3 shown, the directions in which the first contact pieces 313 of the two first specific terminals 31 project from the connecting piece 314 are opposite to each other on the second axis A2. The two first specific terminals 31 are arranged to have rotational symmetry about the center of the first housing 2 when viewed along the first axis A1.

[0081] As Figure 16 shown, the first specific terminal 31 is connected to the conductor pattern 911 of the first circuit board 91 (see Figure 7 ). Specifically, the first specific terminal 31 is joined to the conductor pattern 911 of the first circuit board 91 by solder on the upper surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) of the terminal piece 312.

[0082] (2.1.2.2) The first connection terminal

[0083] As Figure 5 shown, the first connection terminal 32 includes a protruding piece 321, a contact piece 322, a connecting piece 323, and a terminal piece 324, which are integrally formed. The protruding piece 321 and the contact piece 322 have contacts that contact the second connection terminal 72 in the fitted state.

[0084] The protruding piece 321 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. As Figure 3 shown, the inner surface of the protruding piece 321 on the second axis A2 is exposed in the first fitting recess 201 of the first housing 2.

[0085] The contact piece 322 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. As Figure 3 shown, the outer surface of the contact piece 322 on the second axis A2 is exposed in the second fitting recess 202 of the first housing 2.

[0086] The connecting piece 323 is bent into a U shape so as to connect the lower end of the protruding piece 321 and the lower end of the contact piece 322. The lower surface of the connecting piece 323 is exposed on the lower surface of the first transverse inner side wall 221 of the first housing 2.

[0087] The terminal piece 324 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. The terminal piece 324 protrudes outward from the upper end of the contact piece 322 along the second axis A2. As Figure 1 shown, the upper surface of the terminal piece 324 is exposed on the upper surface of the first housing 2.

[0088] The first connection terminal 32 is integrally formed with the first housing 2, for example, by simultaneous molding.

[0089] As Figure 14 、 Figure 15 shown, the first connection terminal 32 is connected to the conductor pattern 912 of the first circuit board 91 (a conductor pattern different from the conductor pattern 911 to which the first specific terminal 31 is connected; refer to Figure 7 ). Specifically, the first connection terminal 32 is connected to the conductor pattern 912 of the first circuit board 91 on the upper surface of the terminal piece 324 (the surface intersecting the thickness direction).

[0090] (2.1.3) The first shield

[0091] The first shield 4 is an electromagnetic shield for blocking electromagnetic waves. The first shield 4 reduces the influence of external noise (electromagnetic waves) on the signal current flowing through the first terminal 3 and the second terminal 7. In addition, the first shield 4 reduces the influence of the noise (electromagnetic waves) caused by the signal current flowing through the first terminal 3 and the second terminal 7 on external electrical equipment and the like.

[0092] As Figure 3 shown, the first shield 4 surrounds at least one of the plurality of first terminals 3. The first shield 4 surrounds at least the first specific terminal 31 among the plurality of first terminals 3. Here, the first shield 4 surrounds the plurality of first specific terminals 31 and also surrounds the plurality of first connection terminals 32.

[0093] The material of the first shield 4 is selected, for example, from copper alloys such as phosphor bronze and Cossen copper, stainless steel, copper-nickel-zinc alloy, and the like.

[0094] As Figure 5 、 Figure 6 shown, the first shield 4 includes a first outer shield 41 and a first inner shield 45.

[0095] (2.1.3.1) The first outer shield

[0096] As Figure 3As shown, the first outer shield 41 is held on the first outer peripheral wall 24 of the first housing 2. The first outer shield 41 surrounds a plurality of first terminals 3.

[0097] As Figure 6 shown, the first outer shield 41 includes a pair of first horizontal shields 410 and a pair of first vertical shields 420.

[0098] The pair of first horizontal shields 410 extend along the third axis A3. As Figure 3 shown, the first horizontal shield 410 covers the outer surface of the first horizontal outer wall 242 of the first outer wall 240. The pair of first horizontal shields 410 are respectively arranged across two adjacent first horizontal outer walls 242, such that the gap between two adjacent first horizontal outer walls 242 is bridged. In addition, the first horizontal shield 410 covers at least a part of the lower surface of the first horizontal outer wall 242.

[0099] The pair of first vertical shields 420 extend along the second axis A2. As Figure 3 shown, the first vertical shield 420 covers the outer surface of the first vertical outer wall 241 of the first outer wall 240. The pair of first vertical shields 420 are respectively arranged across two adjacent first vertical outer walls 241, such that the gap between two adjacent first vertical outer walls 241 is bridged. In addition, the first vertical shield 420 covers at least a part of the lower surface of the first vertical outer wall 241.

[0100] As Figure 6 shown, each of the pair of first horizontal shields 410 is connected to both of the pair of first vertical shields 420. Therefore, the first outer shield 41 is formed in a quadrilateral frame shape in plan view. The first outer shield 41 (the pair of first horizontal shields 410 and the pair of first vertical shields 420) is formed by, for example, deep drawing. The end portion of the first horizontal shield 410 on the third axis A3 and the end portion of the first vertical shield 420 on the second axis A2 are connected without a seam (seamlessly). Therefore, the first outer shield 41 surrounds the first terminals 3 seamlessly in the circumferential direction.

[0101] As Figure 6 shown, the first horizontal shield 410 has a first side wall portion 411, a first connecting portion 412, a bending portion 414, a third side wall portion 413, and a joint portion 415.

[0102] The first side wall portion 411 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. The first side wall portion 411 extends along the first axis A1 (vertical direction). In addition, the first side wall portion 411 extends along the third axis A3.

[0103] The first connecting portion 412 is connected to the lower end of the first side wall portion 411. The first connecting portion 412 bends inwardly of the second axis A2 from the lower end of the first side wall portion 411. Specifically, the first connecting portion 412 is bent into an L-shaped configuration when viewed from the third axis A3. The first horizontal shielding body 410 has at least one (in this case, a plurality of) first connecting portions 412. The plurality of first connecting portions 412 are arranged at intervals along the second axis A2. In the first horizontal shielding body 410, one first connecting portion 412 is provided at each of the two ends of the third axis A3.

[0104] The bending portion 414 bends upward from the front end of the first connecting portion 412. The bending portion 414 is provided at a portion on the inner side of the first connecting portion 412 on the third axis A3. The first connecting portion 412 and the bending portion 414 are bent into a U-shaped configuration protruding downward toward the first axis A1 when viewed from the third axis A3.

[0105] The third side wall portion 413 is a plate-like shape having a thickness along the second axis A2. The third side wall portion 413 is connected to the front end of the bending portion 414. The third side wall portion 413 faces the first side wall portion 411 on the second axis A2. The third side wall portion 413 is located at a position closer to the inner side of the first connector 1 than the first side wall portion 411. A holding convex portion for the first housing 2 to hold the first horizontal shielding body 410 is formed on one end face of the third side wall portion 413 on the third axis A3. The first outer shielding body 41 is held in the first housing 2 by inserting (pressing) four third side wall portions 413 into the recesses 243 formed on the inner surfaces of four first horizontal outer side walls 242 of the first outer peripheral wall 24 of the first housing 2, respectively.

[0106] The joint portion 415 is connected to the upper end of the first side wall portion 411. The joint portion 415 bends outwardly of the second axis A2 from the upper end of the first side wall portion 411 and extends toward the second axis A2. As Figure 18 、 Figure 19 shown, the upper surface of the joint portion 415 is connected to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91 (refer to Figure 7 ).

[0107] As Figure 6 shown, the first horizontal shielding body 410 has a recess 47 on its outer surface. More specifically, in the first horizontal shielding body 410, a rectangularly recessed recess 47 is formed on the outer surface of the first side wall portion 411. One recess 47 is formed at each of the two ends of the third axis A3 of the first side wall portion 411 (the portion where the first connecting portion 412 is formed). Thus, the outer surface of the first side wall portion 411 of the first horizontal shielding body 410 of the first outer shielding body 41 has a reference surface 416 (a flat surface) and a concave surface 417 recessed from the reference surface 416.

[0108] As Figure 6As shown, the reference plane 416 and the concave surface 417 are connected by an inclined surface 419 at the periphery of the concave surface 417. The recess 47 is in the shape of a tray in which the edge portion (four sides) slopes outward.

[0109] As Figure 6 shown, the first longitudinal shielding body 420 has a first side wall portion 421, a first connecting portion 422, and a joint portion 425.

[0110] The first side wall portion 421 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the third axis A3. The first side wall portion 421 extends along the first axis A1 (vertical direction). In addition, the first side wall portion 421 extends along the second axis A2. The first side wall portion 421 of the first longitudinal shielding body 420 is connected to the first side wall portion 411 of the first transverse shielding body 410 without a seam (seamlessly).

[0111] The first connecting portion 422 is connected to the lower end of the first side wall portion 421. The first connecting portion 422 bends inward from the lower end of the first side wall portion 421 toward the third axis A3. Specifically, the first connecting portion 422 is bent into an L-shaped configuration when viewed from the second axis A2. The first longitudinal shielding body 420 has at least one (here, a plurality of) first connecting portions 422. The plurality of first connecting portions 422 are arranged at intervals along the second axis A2. In the first longitudinal shielding body 420, one first connecting portion 422 is provided at each of the two ends of the second axis A2. The first connecting portion 422 of the first longitudinal shielding body 420 is connected to the first connecting portion 412 of the first transverse shielding body 410 without a seam (seamlessly).

[0112] The joint portion 425 is connected to the upper end of the first side wall portion 421. The joint portion 425 bends outward from the upper end of the first side wall portion 421 toward the third axis A3 and extends along the third axis A3. As Figures 14 - 17 shown, the upper surface of the joint portion 425 is connected to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91 (see Figure 7 ). The joint portion 425 of the first longitudinal shielding body 420 is connected to the joint portion 415 of the first transverse shielding body 410 without a seam (seamlessly).

[0113] As Figure 6 shown, the first outer shielding body 41 further has a connecting portion 430. The connecting portion 430 is a plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. When viewed along the first axis A1, the connecting portion 430 is triangular in shape. The connecting portion 430 is provided at a portion where the first transverse shielding body 410 and the first longitudinal shielding body 420 are connected, and connects the lower side end of one end on the third axis A3 of the first transverse shielding body 410 and the lower side end of one end on the second axis A2 of the first longitudinal shielding body 420.

[0114] The first longitudinal shielding body 420 and the first transverse shielding body 410 are held together in the first housing 2.

[0115] As shown Figure 3 in FIG. 317, on the third axis A3, the outer side surface of the holding piece 311 of the first specific terminal 31 and the central portion of the first side wall portion 421 of the first longitudinal shield 420 are opposed to each other. The dimension of the second axis A2 of the first side wall portion 421 of the first longitudinal shield 420 is larger than the dimension of the second axis A2 of the first specific terminal 31. When viewed from the third axis A3, the whole of the first specific terminal 31 is included in the first side wall portion 421. Further, in the present embodiment, the first side wall portion 421 is parallel to the holding piece 311 of the first specific terminal 31.

[0116] As shown Figure 6 in FIG. 321, the first longitudinal shield 420 has a recess 47 on its outer surface. More specifically, in the first longitudinal shield 420, a recess 47 recessed in a rectangular shape is formed on the outer surface of the first side wall portion 421. One recess 47 is formed on each of one side and the other side closer to the center of the second axis A2 of the first side wall portion 421. Thus, the outer surface of the first side wall portion 421 of the first longitudinal shield 420 of the first outer shield 41 has a reference surface 426 (flat surface) and a concave surface 427 recessed from the reference surface 426.

[0117] As shown Figure 6 in FIGS. 324 Figure 14 and 325, the reference surface 426 and the concave surface 427 are connected by an inclined surface 429 at the periphery of the concave surface 427. The recess 47 is in a tray shape in which the edge portion (four sides) is inclined to expand outward.

[0118] Thus, the other-side shield (the first outer shield 41) has a recess 47 on its outer surface. For convenience, if the first side wall portions 411 and 421 are not distinguished and are referred to as the first side wall portion 401, then in the first outer shield 41, a recess 47 recessed in a rectangular shape is formed on the outer surface of the first side wall portion 401. Further, if the reference surfaces 416 and 426 are not distinguished and are referred to as the reference surface 406, and the concave surfaces 417 and 427 are not distinguished and are referred to as the concave surface 407, then the first outer shield 41 has an outer wall (the first side wall portion 401), and the outer surface of the outer wall has a reference surface 406 (flat surface) and a concave surface 407 recessed from the reference surface 406. Further, if the inclined surfaces 419 and 429 are not distinguished and are referred to as the inclined surface 409, then the concave surface 407 is connected to the reference surface 406 via the inclined surface 409.

[0119] (2.1.3.2) The First Inner Shield

[0120] The first inner shield 45 is disposed between two of the plurality of first terminals 3. Here, the first inner shield 45 is disposed between the first specific terminal 31 and the first connection terminal 32.

[0121] As Figure 3 、 Figure 5 shown, in the present embodiment, the first shield 4 includes two first inner shields 45. The two first inner shields 45 are arranged along the third axis A3 so as to separate between one first specific terminal 31 and a plurality (six) of first connection terminals 32, and between the plurality of first connection terminals 32 and another first specific terminal 31, respectively.

[0122] Thus, by arranging the first inner shield 45 between the two first specific terminals 31, it is possible to reduce the influence of the noise caused by the signal current flowing through one first specific terminal 31 on the signal current flowing through the other first specific terminal 31 and the first connection terminals 32. That is, it is possible to improve the insulation (isolation) between the two first specific terminals 31.

[0123] As Figure 5 shown, the first inner shield 45 has a main piece 451, an opposed piece 452, and a pair of support pieces 453.

[0124] The main piece 451 has a thickness along the third axis A3 and is a rectangular plate shape that is long along the second axis A2. The opposed piece 452 has a thickness along the third axis A3 and is a plate shape that extends downward from the lower end surface at the central portion of the main piece 451 in the second axis A2. The pair of support pieces 453 are plate shapes that extend downward from both sides of the opposed piece 452 on the second axis A2 on the lower end surface of the main piece 451.

[0125] As Figure 3 、 Figure 16 shown, the first inner shield 45 is fixed to the first housing 2. The opposed piece 452 and the pair of support pieces 453 are accommodated in a groove portion formed on the upper surface of the first longitudinal inner wall 222. The inner surface of the opposed piece 452 along the third axis A3 is exposed in the first fitting recess 201. The outer surfaces of the pair of support pieces 453 along the second axis A2 are exposed in the second fitting recess 202. In addition, a part of the lower surface of the main piece 451 that is more outward than the support pieces 453 is exposed in the second fitting recess 202.

[0126] Here, in a state where the first shield 4 is not connected to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91, the first outer shield 41 and the first inner shield 45 are separated from each other and are not electrically connected to each other.

[0127] (2.2) Second Connector

[0128] The second connector 5 is a socket (female connector), as Figure 1 、 Figures 8 - 10 shown, and includes a second housing 6, a plurality (here eight) of second terminals 7, and a second shield 8.

[0129] (2.2.1) Second housing

[0130] As Figure 8 shown, the second housing 6 is formed of an insulating resin material into a flat, substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape that is long along the third axis A3. In the second housing 6, both sides of the second axis A2 at the central portion of the third axis A3 are cut away into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the first axis A1. Further, in the second housing 6, both sides of the third axis A3 at the central portion of the second axis A2 are cut away into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the first axis A1.

[0131] As Figure 8 shown, the second housing 6 has a second inner bottom wall 61, a second inner peripheral wall 62, a second outer bottom wall 63, a second outer peripheral wall 64, and a pedestal portion 65. The second inner bottom wall 61, the second inner peripheral wall 62, the second outer bottom wall 63, the second outer peripheral wall 64, and the pedestal portion 65 are integrally formed.

[0132] The second inner bottom wall 61 is a rectangular plate shape that is long along the third axis A3.

[0133] The second inner peripheral wall 62 projects upward from the periphery of the second inner bottom wall 61. Specifically, the second inner peripheral wall 62 includes a pair of second inner side walls 621 and four protruding walls 622. The pair of second inner side walls 621 are a pair of walls that are long along the third axis A3. The pair of second inner side walls 621 are provided near the center of the third axis A3 (in the region between the partial bottom walls of the second outer bottom wall 63 described later) at both ends of the second axis A2 of the second inner bottom wall 61. The four protruding walls 622 extend along the third axis A3 from both ends of the third axis A3 of the pair of second inner side walls 621. The four protruding walls 622 project upward from the second inner bottom wall 61 (bottom wall). Two of the four protruding walls 622 are opposed to each other on the second axis A2, and the remaining two of the four protruding walls 622 are opposed to each other on the second axis A2. A groove-shaped receiving portion 623 that extends along the first axis A1 is formed in one of the two opposed protruding walls 622. A groove-shaped groove portion 624 that extends along the first axis A1 is formed in the other of the two opposed protruding walls 622. In the second housing 6, an opening 66 that penetrates the bottom wall (second inner bottom wall 61) on the first axis A1 is formed in the region where the receiving portion 623 and the groove portion 624 are opposed. The space in the receiving portion 623, the space in the groove portion 624, and the opening 66 are connected to each other.

[0134] The base portion 65 is in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped that is long along the third axis A3 and protrudes upward from the center of the second inner bottom wall 61. The portion surrounded by the inner bottom surface of the second inner bottom wall 61, the inner side surface of the second inner peripheral wall 62, and the outer side surface of the base portion 65 constitutes the third fitting recess 601 into which the first connector 1 is fitted. Specifically, the first inner peripheral wall 22 of the first connector 1 is fitted into the third fitting recess 601.

[0135] The second outer bottom wall 63 is composed of four partial bottom walls that extend in a rectangular shape in a plane orthogonal to the first axis A1 from the four corner portions of the second inner bottom wall 61, respectively.

[0136] The second outer peripheral wall 64 protrudes upward from the peripheral edge of the second outer bottom wall 63 so as to surround the second inner peripheral wall 62. The second outer peripheral wall 64 is in the shape of a rectangular frame with the central portions of its four sides cut off in a plan view. The second outer peripheral wall 64 extends in the circumferential direction.

[0137] The portion surrounded by the outer side surface of the second inner peripheral wall 62, the inner bottom surface of the second outer bottom wall 63, and the inner side surface of the second outer peripheral wall 64 constitutes the fourth fitting recess 602. In the state where the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted together, the first outer peripheral wall 24 of the first connector 1 is fitted into the fourth fitting recess 602.

[0138] The second housing 6 holds a plurality of second terminals 7 and a second shield 8.

[0139] In the present embodiment, some (six) of the plurality of (eight) second terminals 7 (second connection terminals 72) straddle the second inner side wall 621 and the base portion 65, respectively. Specifically, three second connection terminals 72 are provided on each of the pair of second inner side walls 621. In addition, in the present embodiment, the remaining second terminals 7 (second specific terminals 71) among the plurality of (eight) second terminals 7 are arranged between two protruding walls 622 that face each other on the second axis A2.

[0140] In the present embodiment, the second outer shield 81 of the second shield 8 sandwiches the second outer peripheral wall 64. In addition, in the present embodiment, the second inner shield 85 of the second shield 8 is disposed in a groove hole 67 formed in the second housing 6. The second inner shield 85 is integrally formed with the second housing 6 by, for example, simultaneous molding.

[0141] (2.2.2) Second Terminal

[0142] The second terminal 7 (terminal) is a terminal for signal transmission and is formed by bending a strip-shaped metal plate. In addition, metal plating is applied to the second terminal 7. When the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are in a fitted state, the plurality of second terminals 7 are in contact with the plurality of first terminals 3 of the first connector 1, respectively.

[0143] The plurality of second terminals 7 include one or more second specific terminals 71. In addition, the plurality of second terminals 7 include terminals other than one or more second specific terminals 71 (second connection terminals 72). Here, two of the eight second terminals 7 are second specific terminals 71, and the remaining six are second connection terminals 72.

[0144] The two second specific terminals 71 are arranged on both sides of the third axis A3 within the second connector 5. The two second specific terminals 71 are respectively arranged between two protruding walls 622.

[0145] The six second connection terminals 72 are on the third axis A3, in the region between the two second specific terminals 71, and are divided into three each and arranged along the third axis A3 on both sides of the second axis A2. The six second connection terminals 72 are respectively held by a pair of second inner walls 621, three each.

[0146] For example, the second specific terminal 71 is a terminal for transmitting a signal with a relatively high frequency. The two second specific terminals 71 have the same shape as each other. For example, a signal current flows from the first circuit board 91 toward the second circuit board 92 through one of the two second specific terminals 71, and a signal current flows from the second circuit board 92 toward the first circuit board 91 through the other of the two second specific terminals 71.

[0147] The second connection terminal 72 is a terminal for transmitting a signal with a relatively low frequency. Some or all of the plurality of (for example, six) second connection terminals 72 may be terminals for transmitting power. The six second connection terminals 72 have the same shape as each other. The second connection terminals 72 may also be terminals with different shapes.

[0148] (2.2.2.1) Second Specific Terminal

[0149] The second specific terminal 71 is in contact with the first specific terminal 31 (the terminal on the other side) in the engaged state and is connected to the first specific terminal 31.

[0150] As Figure 9 shown, the second specific terminal 71 has a terminal piece 714, a second contact piece 713, a holding piece 715, and a connecting piece 712, and is formed integrally thereof.

[0151] The connecting piece 712 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. The connecting piece 712 connects the terminal piece 714, the second contact piece 713, and the holding piece 715. Specifically, the second contact piece 713 is connected to the first end of the second axis A2 of the connecting piece 712, and the holding piece 715 is connected to the second end of the second axis A2 of the connecting piece 712. In addition, the terminal piece 714 is connected to the side end of the third axis A3 of the connecting piece 712.

[0152] The terminal piece 714 is a plate-like shape that is substantially rectangular when viewed along the first axis A1. The terminal piece 714 projects from the connection piece 712 along the third axis A3. The terminal piece 714 is connected in the connection piece 712 between the portion connected to the second contact piece 713 (the first end on the second axis A2) and the portion connected to the holding piece 715 (the second end on the second axis A2). The terminal piece 714 has a substantially rectangular flat plate-like portion (flat plate portion) having a thickness along the first axis A1, and a bent portion that is bent and connected between the flat plate portion and the connection piece 712. Through the bent portion, the lower surface of the flat plate portion of the terminal piece 714 is located at a position lower than the lower surface of the connection piece 712. The terminal piece 714 (flat plate portion) is configured to be connected to the second circuit board 92.

[0153] The second contact piece 713 is the portion that contacts the first specific terminal 31 (the other-side terminal) in the second specific terminal 71 (terminal). The second contact piece 713 projects upward from the first end on the second axis A2 of the connection piece 712. The second contact piece 713 has a second contact 711 configured to contact the first specific terminal 31. The second specific terminal 71 is bent in a C shape when viewed along the third axis A3, and the protruding end of the bent portion is the second contact 711. The second contact 711 contacts the first contact 315 of the first contact piece 313.

[0154] The holding piece 715 is the portion of the second specific terminal 71 that is held by the second housing 6. As Figure 9 shown, the holding piece 715 is a plate-like shape that is substantially rectangular and has a thickness along the second axis A2. The holding piece 715 projects upward from the second end on the second axis A2 of the connection piece 712. A pair of holding protrusions for holding the second specific terminal 71 by the second housing 6 are formed on the end faces on both sides of the third axis A3 of the holding piece 715. The holding piece 715 is held in the accommodation portion 623 formed in the protruding wall 622. Specifically, the holding piece 715 is held by the second housing 6 by pressing the pair of holding protrusions into the inner side surface of the groove-shaped accommodation portion 623 (see Figure 1). With the holding piece 715 held in the accommodating portion 623, the second contact piece 713 is accommodated in the groove portion 624. Further, with the holding piece 715 held in the accommodating portion 623, the connecting piece 712 is disposed in the opening portion 66. With the holding piece 715 held in the accommodating portion 623, portions of the second specific terminal 71 other than the holding piece 715 (the connecting piece 712, the second contact piece 713, and the terminal piece 714) do not contact the second housing 6 (a gap is provided). However, not limited thereto, portions of the second specific terminal 71 other than the holding piece 715 may also contact the second housing 6. The holding piece 715 is configured to not contact (be away from) the first specific terminal 31 in the mated state where the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are mated. The second contact piece 713 and the holding piece 715 are disposed opposite to each other along the second axis A2.

[0155] As Figure 16 shown, the second specific terminal 71 is connected to the conductor pattern 921 of the second circuit board 92 (refer to Figure 12 ). Specifically, the second specific terminal 71 is connected to the conductor pattern 921 of the second circuit board 92 on the lower surface of the terminal piece 714 (a surface intersecting the thickness direction).

[0156] (2.2.2.2) Second connection terminal

[0157] As Figure 9 shown, the second connection terminal 72 includes a contact piece 721, a spring piece 722, a standing piece 723, a descending piece 724, a connecting piece 725, and a terminal piece 726, which are integrally formed. The contact piece 721 and the standing piece 723 have contacts that contact the first connection terminal 32 in the mated state.

[0158] The contact piece 721 is a plate-like shape having a thickness along the second axis A2, and is bent into a C-shaped when viewed from the third axis A3. The surfaces on the outer sides of the second axis A2 of the contact piece 721 are inclined such that the two sides of the contact piece 721 along the second axis A2 become gradually thinner compared to the central portion. In the mated state, the contact piece 721 contacts the protruding piece 321 of the first connection terminal 32.

[0159] The spring piece 722 is formed in a U-shaped when viewed from the third axis A3. The spring piece 722 elastically deforms along the second axis A2 such that the size of the upper opening changes. Due to the elastic force of the spring piece 722, the contact piece 721 elastically contacts the first connection terminal 32 in the mated state.

[0160] The standing piece 723 is a substantially rectangular plate-like shape having a thickness along the second axis A2. The lower end of the standing piece 723 is connected to the upper end of the spring piece 722. In the mated state, the standing piece 723 contacts the first connection terminal 32.

[0161] The standing piece 723 has a step 7230 in the middle in the vertical direction. In the fitted state, the portion of the standing piece 723 above the step 7230 contacts the contact piece 322 of the first connection terminal 32.

[0162] The descending piece 724 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. On both end faces on the third axis A3 of the descending piece 724, a pair of holding projections for the second housing 6 to hold the second connection terminal 72 are formed.

[0163] The connecting piece 725 is bent in an inverted U shape so as to connect the upper end of the standing piece 723 and the upper end of the descending piece 724. The connecting piece 725 applies a reaction force (elastic force) to the second connection terminal 72 with respect to the force along the second axis A2.

[0164] The terminal piece 726 is a substantially rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the first axis A1. The terminal piece 726 projects outward from the lower end of the descending piece 724 along the second axis A2. The lower surface of the terminal piece 726 is exposed on the lower surface of the second housing 6.

[0165] As Figure 17 shown, the second connection terminal 72 is connected to the conductor pattern 922 of the second circuit board 92 (a conductor pattern different from the conductor pattern 921 to which the second specific terminal 71 is connected; refer to Figure 12 )). Specifically, the second connection terminal 72 is connected to the conductor pattern 922 of the second circuit board 92 through the lower surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) of the terminal piece 726.

[0166] (2.2.3) Second shield

[0167] The second shield 8 is an electromagnetic shield for blocking electromagnetic waves. The second shield 8 reduces the influence of external noise (electromagnetic waves) on the signal current flowing through the first terminal 3 and the second terminal 7. In addition, the second shield 8 reduces the influence of the noise (electromagnetic waves) caused by the signal current flowing through the first terminal 3 and the second terminal 7 on external electrical equipment and the like. In the fitted state, the second shield 8 contacts the first shield 4.

[0168] As Figure 1 shown, the second shield 8 surrounds at least one of the plurality of second terminals 7. The second shield 8 surrounds at least the second specific terminal 71 among the plurality of second terminals 7. Here, the second shield 8 surrounds the plurality of second specific terminals 71 and also surrounds the plurality of second connection terminals 72.

[0169] The material of the second shield 8 can be selected, for example, from copper alloys such as phosphor bronze and Cossen copper, stainless steel, copper nickel zinc alloy, and the like.

[0170] As Figure 9 ,Figure 10 As shown, the second shield 8 includes a second outer shield 81 and a second inner shield 85.

[0171] (2.2.3.1)Second outer shield

[0172] As Figure 1 shown, the second outer shield 81 is held on the second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6. The second outer shield 81 surrounds a plurality of second terminals 7.

[0173] As Figure 10 shown, the second outer shield 81 includes a pair of second horizontal shields 810 and a pair of second vertical shields 820.

[0174] A pair of second horizontal shields 810 extends in the circumferential direction. As Figure 1 shown, a pair of second horizontal shields 810 extends along the third axis A3. A pair of second horizontal shields 810 covers the outer surfaces of the side walls along the third axis A3 among the second outer peripheral walls 64. A pair of second horizontal shields 810 are respectively disposed across the side walls adjacent on the third axis A3. In addition, a pair of second horizontal shields 810 covers the upper surfaces and inner surfaces of the side walls along the third axis A3 among the second outer peripheral walls 64.

[0175] A pair of second vertical shields 820 extends in the circumferential direction. As Figure 1 shown, a pair of second vertical shields 820 extends along the second axis A2. A pair of second vertical shields 820 covers the outer surfaces of the side walls along the second axis A2 among the second outer peripheral walls 64. A pair of second vertical shields 820 are respectively disposed across the side walls adjacent on the second axis A2. In addition, a pair of second vertical shields 820 covers the upper surfaces and inner surfaces of the side walls along the second axis A2 among the second outer peripheral walls 64.

[0176] A pair of second horizontal shields 810 and a pair of second vertical shields 820 are integrally formed so as to be rectangular frame-shaped in plan view. The second outer shield 81 (a pair of second horizontal shields 810 and a pair of second vertical shields 820) is formed, for example, by drawing. The end portions on the third axis A3 of the second horizontal shields 810 and the end portions on the second axis A2 of the second vertical shields 820 are connected without seams (seamlessly). Therefore, the second outer shield 81 surrounds the second terminals 7 seamlessly in the circumferential direction. A cutout 83 is formed inside the corner portion where the second horizontal shields 810 and the second vertical shields 820 are connected.

[0177] As Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13A , Figure 13BAs shown, the second horizontal shielding body 810 has a second side wall portion 811, a second connecting portion 812, a fourth side wall portion 813, an extension portion 814, and a joining portion 815.

[0178] The second side wall portion 811 is a rectangular flat plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. The second side wall portion 811 extends along the first axis A1 (vertical direction). Further, the second side wall portion 811 extends along the third axis A3. The second side wall portion 811 has an inner opposing portion 866.

[0179] The fourth side wall portion 813 is a plate having a thickness along the second axis A2. The fourth side wall portion 813 is outside the second side wall portion 811 on the second axis A2 and is opposed to the second side wall portion 811. The fourth side wall portion 813 is provided over the entire length of the second horizontal shielding body 810 on the third axis A3. The fourth side wall portion 813 has an outer opposing portion 896. The outer opposing portion 896 and the inner opposing portion 866 are opposed to each other with a space therebetween on the second axis A2.

[0180] The second connecting portion 812 connects the second side wall portion 811 and the fourth side wall portion 813. The second connecting portion 812 connects the upper end of the second side wall portion 811 and the upper end of the fourth side wall portion 813.

[0181] As Figure 13A shown, the second connecting portion 812 has an inner connecting portion 816, an upper connecting portion 818, and an outer connecting portion 819.

[0182] The upper connecting portion 818 is a flat plate extending along the third axis A3 and having a thickness along the first axis A1. The upper connecting portion 818 connects the inner connecting portion 816 and the outer connecting portion 819. The upper connecting portion 818 covers the upper surface of the second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6. The lower end surface of the upper connecting portion 818 faces the space between the inner opposing portion 866 and the outer opposing portion 896.

[0183] The inner connecting portion 816 connects the upper connecting portion 818 and the second side wall portion 811. The inner connecting portion 816 is connected to the inner opposing portion 866. In Figure 13A this, the inner connecting portion 816 is more on the upper side and the inner opposing portion 866 (second side wall portion 811) is more on the lower side compared to the virtual line M1. The inner connecting portion 816 has an inner bending portion 861.

[0184] As Figure 13A shown, the inner bending portion 861 bends so as to bulge toward the inside of the second connector 5. The inner bending portion 861 bends downward from the inner end of the upper connecting portion 818 on the second axis A2. The lower end of the inner bending portion 861 is connected to the upper end of the inner opposing portion 866.

[0185] The outer connecting portion 819 connects the upper connecting portion 818 and the fourth side wall portion 813. The outer connecting portion 819 is connected to the outer opposing portion 896. In Figure 13A , compared with the virtual line M1, the outer connecting portion 819 is on the upper side, and the outer opposing portion 896 (the fourth side wall portion 813) is on the lower side. The outer connecting portion 819 has an outer bending portion 891.

[0186] As Figure 13A shown, the outer bending portion 891 bends so as to bulge toward the outside of the second connector 5. The outer bending portion 891 bends downward from the outer end of the second axis A2 of the upper connecting portion 818. The lower end of the outer bending portion 891 is connected to the upper end of the outer opposing portion 896.

[0187] The inner bending portion 861 and the outer bending portion 891 are arranged on the second axis A2 with the upper connecting portion 818 therebetween.

[0188] The inner opposing portion 866 of the second side wall portion 811 is arranged below the inner connecting portion 816. The inner opposing portion 866 is opposed to the outer opposing portion 896 with a space therebetween on the second axis A2 (see Figure 13A ). The inner opposing portion 866 is opposed to the outer opposing portion 896 on the second axis A2 without the upper connecting portion 818 therebetween. The inner opposing portion 866 is opposed to the outer opposing portion 896 with a space or the second housing 6 (the second outer peripheral wall 64) therebetween. The upper end of the inner opposing portion 866 is connected to the inner bending portion 861.

[0189] The outer opposing portion 896 of the fourth side wall portion 813 is arranged below the outer connecting portion 819. The outer opposing portion 896 is opposed to the inner opposing portion 866 with a space therebetween on the second axis A2 (see Figure 13A ). The upper end of the outer opposing portion 896 is connected to the outer bending portion 891.

[0190] As Figure 13A shown, the second side wall portion 811, the second connecting portion 812, and the fourth side wall portion 813 are connected in an inverted U shape so as to protrude upward toward the first axis A1 when viewed from the third axis A3.

[0191] As Figure 10 , Figure 11 shown, the second horizontal shielding body 810 has protrusions 88 on its outer surface. One protrusion 88 is formed at each of both ends of the third axis A3 of the second horizontal shielding body 810 (the portion corresponding to the portion where the recess 47 is formed in the first horizontal shielding body 410). The protrusion 88 will be described later.

[0192] As Figure 11 , Figure 13AAs shown, the second side wall portion 811 has an inclined surface 845 at the lower end away from the second connecting portion 812. The inclined surface 845 is inclined such that the thickness of the second side wall portion 811 decreases as it approaches the lower end. The inclined surface 845 is formed at a position below the protruding portion 88.

[0193] As Figure 10 shown, the extending portion 814 is a plate shape having a thickness along the second axis A2. The extending portion 814 protrudes downward from the central portion of the third axis A3 at the lower end of the second side wall portion 811. The extending portion 814 faces the fourth side wall portion 813 on the second axis A2. A pair of holding protrusions for holding the second horizontal shielding body 810 by the second housing 6 are formed on both end surfaces of the extending portion 814 on the third axis A3. The second outer shielding body 81 is held in the second housing 6 by inserting (pressing) the extending portion 814 into the cut portion of the second outer peripheral wall 64 in the second housing 6.

[0194] The joint portion 815 bends outward from the lower end of the fourth side wall portion 813 with respect to the second axis A2. The joint portion 815 extends from the central portion and both end portions of the third axis A3 at the lower end of the fourth side wall portion 813. At the lower end of the fourth side wall portion 813, a rectangular cutout 8130 is formed at a portion where the joint portion 815 is not provided. As Figure 18 、 Figure 19 shown, the lower surface of the joint portion 815 is connected to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92 (see Figure 12 ).

[0195] The second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6 is disposed between the second side wall portion 811 and the fourth side wall portion 813.

[0196] When viewed from the second axis A2, the second side wall portion 811, the extending portion 814, and the fourth side wall portion 813 of the second horizontal shielding body 810 are opposed to the outside of the second connection terminal 72. Therefore, on the second axis A2, the second connection terminal 72 is doubly shielded by the second side wall portion 811, the extending portion 814, and the fourth side wall portion 813.

[0197] As Figure 10 shown, the second vertical shielding body 820 has a second side wall portion 821, a second connecting portion 822, a fourth side wall portion 823, and a joint portion 825.

[0198] The second side wall portion 821 is a rectangular flat plate shape having a thickness along the third axis A3. The second side wall portion 821 extends along the first axis A1 (vertical direction). Further, the second side wall portion 821 extends along the second axis A2. The second side wall portion 821 has an inner opposing portion 867.

[0199] The fourth side wall portion 823 is plate-shaped with a thickness along the third axis A3. The fourth side wall portion 823 is located outside the second side wall portion 821 on the third axis A3 and faces the second side wall portion 821. The fourth side wall portion 823 is provided over the entire length of the second longitudinal shield 820 on the second axis A2. The fourth side wall portion 823 of the second longitudinal shield 820 is connected to the fourth side wall portion 813 of the second transverse shield 810 without a seam (seamlessly). The fourth side wall portion 823 has an outer opposing portion 897. The outer opposing portion 897 and the inner opposing portion 867 oppose each other with a space therebetween on the third axis A3.

[0200] The second connecting portion 822 connects the second side wall portion 821 and the fourth side wall portion 823. The second connecting portion 822 connects the upper end of the second side wall portion 821 and the upper end of the fourth side wall portion 823. The second connecting portion 822 of the second longitudinal shield 820 is connected to the second connecting portion 812 of the second transverse shield 810 without a seam (seamlessly).

[0201] As Figure 13B shown, the second connecting portion 822 has an inner connecting portion 826, an upper connecting portion 828, and an outer connecting portion 829.

[0202] The upper connecting portion 828 is a flat plate shape that extends along the second axis A2 and has a thickness along the first axis A1. The upper connecting portion 828 connects the inner connecting portion 826 and the outer connecting portion 829. The upper connecting portion 828 covers the upper surface of the second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6. The lower end surface of the upper connecting portion 828 faces the space between the inner opposing portion 867 and the outer opposing portion 897.

[0203] The inner connecting portion 826 connects the upper connecting portion 828 and the second side wall portion 821. The inner connecting portion 826 is connected to the inner opposing portion 867. In Figure 13B it, compared to the virtual line M2, the inner connecting portion 826 is more on the upper side and the inner opposing portion 867 (the second side wall portion 821) is more on the lower side. The inner connecting portion 826 has an inner bending portion 862.

[0204] As Figure 13B shown, the inner bending portion 862 bends bulgingly toward the inside of the second connector 5. The inner bending portion 862 bends downward from the end portion on the inner side of the third axis A3 of the upper connecting portion 828. The lower end of the inner bending portion 862 is connected to the upper end of the inner opposing portion 867.

[0205] The outer connecting portion 829 connects the upper connecting portion 828 and the fourth side wall portion 823. The outer connecting portion 829 is connected to the outer opposing portion 897. In Figure 13BAmong them, compared with the virtual line M2, the outer connecting portion 829 is located more on the upper side, and the outer opposing portion 897 (the fourth side wall portion 823) is located more on the lower side. The outer connecting portion 829 has an outer bending portion 892.

[0206] As Figure 13B shown, the outer bending portion 892 is bent so as to bulge outwardly toward the outside of the second connector 5. The outer bending portion 892 bends downward from the outer end of the third axis A3 of the upper connecting portion 828. The lower end of the outer bending portion 892 is connected to the upper end of the outer opposing portion 897.

[0207] The inner bending portion 862 and the outer bending portion 892 are arranged on the third axis A3 with the upper connecting portion 828 therebetween.

[0208] The inner opposing portion 867 of the second side wall portion 821 is arranged below the inner connecting portion 826. The inner opposing portion 867 is opposed to the outer opposing portion 897 with a space therebetween on the third axis A3 (see Figure 13B ). The inner opposing portion 867 is not opposed to the outer opposing portion 897 on the third axis A3 with the upper connecting portion 828 therebetween. The inner opposing portion 867 is opposed to the outer opposing portion 897 with a space or the second housing 6 (the second outer peripheral wall 64) therebetween. The upper end of the inner opposing portion 867 is connected to the inner bending portion 862.

[0209] The outer opposing portion 897 of the fourth side wall portion 823 is arranged below the outer connecting portion 829. The outer opposing portion 897 is opposed to the inner opposing portion 867 with a space therebetween on the third axis A3 (see Figure 13B ). The upper end of the outer opposing portion 897 is connected to the outer bending portion 892.

[0210] As Figure 13B shown, the second side wall portion 821, the second connecting portion 822, and the fourth side wall portion 823 are connected in an inverted U shape so as to protrude upward toward the first axis A1 when viewed from the second axis A2.

[0211] As Figure 10 , Figure 11 shown, the second longitudinal shield 820 has protrusions 88 on its outer surface. One protrusion 88 is formed on each of the one side and the other side (the portion corresponding to the portion where the recess 47 is formed in the first longitudinal shield 420) of the second longitudinal shield 820 that is closer to the side than the center of the second axis A2. The protrusion 88 will be described later.

[0212] As Figure 11 , Figure 13BAs shown, the second side wall portion 821 has an inclined surface 845 at its lower end that is away from the second connecting portion 822. The inclined surface 845 is inclined such that the thickness of the second side wall portion 821 becomes smaller as it approaches the lower end. The inclined surface 845 is formed at a position below the protruding portion 88.

[0213] The joint portion 825 is connected to the lower end of the fourth side wall portion 823. The joint portion 825 bends outward from the lower end of the fourth side wall portion 823 with respect to the third axis A3. The joint portion 825 is provided along the entire length of the second longitudinal shield 820 on the second axis A2. As Figures 14 - 17 shown, the lower surface of the joint portion 825 is connected to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92 (see Figure 12 ).

[0214] The second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6 is disposed between the second side wall portion 821 and the fourth side wall portion 823.

[0215] As described above, the second horizontal shield 810 and the second longitudinal shield 820 have protruding portions 88 on their outer surfaces. Hereinafter, for convenience, the second side wall portions 811 and 821 are collectively referred to as the inner wall 801 without distinction, the fourth side wall portions 813 and 823 are collectively referred to as the outer wall 803 without distinction, and the second connecting portions 812 and 822 are collectively referred to as the connecting portion 802 without distinction. In addition, the inner connecting portions 816 and 826 are collectively referred to as the inner connecting portion 806 without distinction, the outer connecting portions 819 and 829 are collectively referred to as the outer connecting portion 809 without distinction, and the upper connecting portions 818 and 828 are collectively referred to as the upper connecting portion 808 without distinction. In addition, the inner bending portions 861 and 862 are collectively referred to as the inner bending portion 860 without distinction, and the inner opposing portions 866 and 867 are collectively referred to as the inner opposing portion 865 without distinction. In addition, the outer bending portions 891 and 892 are collectively referred to as the outer bending portion 890 without distinction, and the outer opposing portions 896 and 897 are collectively referred to as the outer opposing portion 895 without distinction.

[0216] As Figure 11 shown, the protruding portion 88 protrudes slightly raised from the surroundings. The protruding amount of the protruding portion 88 gradually increases toward the inside of the second connector 5. In addition, the protruding amount of the protruding portion 88 gradually increases downward. As Figure 11 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B shown, the protruding end (lower end) of the protruding portion 88 becomes an inclined surface 89. Further, the thickness of the outer surface below the protruding portion 88, that is, the thickness of the outer surface continuous with the inclined surface 89 of the inner wall 801 below, is smaller than the thickness of the protruding portion 88.

[0217] The protrusion 88 is formed at least on the outer surface of the connecting portion 802. The protrusion 88 is formed at least on the outer surface of the portion corresponding to the inner curved portion 860. In the present embodiment, the protrusion 88 is formed within the range of the outer surface of the inner curved portion 860 and the outer surface of the inner opposing portion 865.

[0218] If it is described by changing the viewing method, then as Figure 11 shown, the outer surface of the inner curved portion 860 has a first portion 871 and a second portion 872. The second portion 872 is continuous with the first portion 871 via a step in the circumferential direction. If the first portion 871 and the second portion 872 of the second horizontal shield 810 are respectively referred to as the first portion 8711 and the second portion 8721, then the second portion 8721 is continuous with the first portion 8711 via a step in the direction along the third axis A3. In addition, if the first portion 871 and the second portion 872 of the second vertical shield 820 are respectively referred to as the first portion 8712 and the second portion 8722, then the second portion 8722 is continuous with the first portion 8712 via a step in the direction along the second axis A2.

[0219] The first portion 871 is a curved surface. The second portion 872 is a curved surface with a radius of curvature smaller than that of the first portion 871. The first portion 871 is the portion corresponding to the protrusion 88 and protrudes more toward the inside of the second connector 5 than the second portion 872. The second portion 872 exists on both sides of the first portion 871 in the circumferential direction. The second portion 872 exists between two first portions 871 in the circumferential direction.

[0220] The first portion 8711 is formed on the outer surface of the inner curved portion 861 that intersects the straight line passing through the upper connecting portion 818 and along the second axis A2 among the inner curved portions 861.

[0221] The first portion 8712 is formed on the outer surface of the inner curved portion 862 that intersects the straight line passing through the upper connecting portion 828 and along the third axis A3 among the inner curved portions 862.

[0222] In the inner curved portion 860, the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the first portion 871 is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the second portion 872 in the inner curved portion 860.

[0223] In addition, as Figure 11As shown, the outer surface of the inner opposed portion 865 has a third portion 873 and a fourth portion 874. The third portion 873 is continuous with the first portion 871. The third portion 873 is continuous with the first portion 871 in the bending direction in which the first portion 871 is bent. The fourth portion 874 is continuous with the second portion 872. The fourth portion 874 is continuous with the second portion 872 in the bending direction in which the second portion 872 is bent. Further, the fourth portion 874 is continuous with the third portion 873 via a step in the circumferential direction. If the third portion 873 and the fourth portion 874 of the second horizontal shield 810 are respectively referred to as a third portion 8731 and a fourth portion 8741, the fourth portion 8741 is continuous with the third portion 8731 via a step in the direction along the third axis A3. Further, if the third portion 873 and the fourth portion 874 of the second vertical shield 820 are respectively referred to as a third portion 8732 and a fourth portion 8742, the fourth portion 8742 is continuous with the third portion 8732 via a step in the direction along the second axis A2.

[0224] The third portion 873 is a curved surface. The fourth portion 874 is a flat surface. However, it is not limited thereto, and at least a part of the third portion 873 (the lower end part of the third portion 873) may be a flat surface, and at least a part of the fourth portion 874 (the upper end part of the fourth portion 874) may be a curved surface. The third portion 873 is a portion corresponding to the protrusion 88 and protrudes more toward the inside of the second connector 5 than the fourth portion 874. The fourth portions 874 exist on both sides of the third portion 873 in the circumferential direction. The fourth portion 874 exists between two third portions 873 in the circumferential direction. The maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the third portion 873 in the inner opposed portion 865 is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the fourth portion 874 in the inner opposed portion 865.

[0225] The protrusion 88 is composed of a portion corresponding to the first portion 871 among the inner bent portions 860 and a portion corresponding to the third portion 873 among the inner opposed portions 865.

[0226] The protruding portion 88 is formed, for example, by rolling (stretching while applying pressure) the portions other than the protruding portion 88 among the inner connecting portion 806 and the inner wall 801. Therefore, the thicknesses (L1, L3) of the portions other than the protruding portion 88 among the inner connecting portion 806 and the inner wall 801 are smaller than the thicknesses (L2, L4) of the portions in the second outer shield 81 where the rolling process is not performed, such as the outer wall 803 (L1 < L2, L3 < L4). In addition, the thickness of the portion in the second outer shield 81 where the rolling process is not performed is substantially constant. For example, the thicknesses of the portions of the inner connecting portion 806 corresponding to the protruding portion 88 (the thickness of the portion corresponding to the first portion 871 and the thickness of the portion corresponding to the third portion 873) are substantially the same as the thicknesses (L2, L4) of the outer wall 803.

[0227] (2.2.3.2) The second inner shield

[0228] The second inner shield 85 is disposed between two of the plurality of second terminals 7. Here, the second inner shield 85 is disposed between the second specific terminal 71 and the second connection terminal 72.

[0229] As Figure 1 , Figure 9 shown, in the present embodiment, the second shield 8 includes two second inner shields 85. The two second inner shields 85 are arranged along the third axis A3 so as to separate the space between one second specific terminal 71 and a plurality of (six) second connection terminals 72, and the space between the plurality of second connection terminals 72 and the other second specific terminal 71, respectively.

[0230] Thus, by disposing the second inner shield 85 between the two second specific terminals 71, the influence of the noise caused by the signal current flowing through one second specific terminal 71 on the signal currents flowing through the other second specific terminal 71 and the second connection terminals 72 can be reduced. That is, the insulation (isolation) between the two second specific terminals 71 can be improved.

[0231] As Figure 9 shown, the second inner shield 85 has a main piece 851, a pair of support pieces 852, a pair of protruding pieces 853, a pair of terminal pieces 854, and a pair of holding pieces 855.

[0232] The main piece 851 is a rectangular plate-like shape having a thickness along the third axis A3 and being longer along the second axis A2. Each of the pair of support pieces 852 is a plate-like shape having a thickness along the third axis A3. The pair of support pieces 852 project upward from the upper end surface of the main piece 851 at intervals along the second axis A2. Each of the pair of protruding pieces 853 is a plate-like shape having a thickness along the first axis A1. The pair of protruding pieces 853 project outward from both ends of the main piece 851 along the second axis A2 toward the outside of the third axis A3. Each of the pair of terminal pieces 854 is a plate-like shape having a thickness along the first axis A1. The pair of terminal pieces 854 project outward from the front ends of the pair of protruding pieces 853 toward the outside of the second axis A2. Each of the pair of holding pieces 855 is a plate-like shape that projects obliquely upward and inward toward the second axis A2 from a portion in the middle of the pair of protruding pieces 853 along the third axis A3.

[0233] As Figure 1 , Figures 14 - 17 shown, the second inner shield 85 is fixed to the second housing 6. The lower surface of the main piece 851 is exposed from the lower surface of the second housing 6, and the inner end surfaces of the pair of support pieces 852 along the second axis A2 are exposed in the third fitting recess 601.

[0234] As Figure 1 shown, the terminal piece 854 extends to the outside of the second outer peripheral wall 64 of the second housing 6 in a plan view. In addition, the terminal piece 854 is located below the cutout 8130 of the second outer shield 81. The terminal piece 854 extends to the outside of the second outer shield 81 when viewed from the first axis A1. The lower surface of the terminal piece 854 is connected to the ground pattern 920 (refer to Figure 12 ) of the second circuit board 92.

[0235] In this way, in the second shield 8, the second inner shield 85 that is separate from the second outer shield 81 has a terminal piece 854 that is connected to the ground pattern 920 of the circuit board (the second circuit board 92). The terminal piece 854 is disposed below the lower end of the second outer shield 81. Thereby, the connection operation (such as soldering, etc.) of the second inner shield 85 to the ground pattern 920 becomes easy.

[0236] Here, in a state where the second shield 8 is not connected to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92, the second outer shield 81 and the second inner shield 85 are separated from each other and are not electrically connected. As Figure 19 shown, the upper surface of the first inner shield 45 (the main piece 451) is connected to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91, and the lower surface of the second inner shield 85 (the main piece 851) is connected to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92.

[0237] (2.3) Connecting device

[0238] As Figures 14 - 19As shown, the first connector 1 is connected to the first circuit board 91. Through the first connector 1 and the first circuit board 91, the first connection device (counterpart connection device) 101 is formed. That is, the first connection device 101 includes the first connector 1 and the first circuit board 91 to which the first connector 1 is connected. In addition, the second connector 5 is connected to the second circuit board 92. Through the second connector 5 and the second circuit board 92, the second connection device (connection device) 102 is formed. That is, the second connection device 102 includes the second connector 5 and the second circuit board 92 to which the second connector 5 is connected.

[0239] (2.3.1) The first connection device

[0240] In the first connection device 101, the two first specific terminals 31 (terminal pieces 312 thereof) of the first connector 1 are respectively joined to the two conductor patterns 911 of the first circuit board 91 by solder (see Figure 16 ). In addition, the six first connection terminals 32 (terminal pieces 324 thereof) of the first connector 1 are respectively joined to the six conductor patterns 912 of the first circuit board 91 by solder (see Figure 15 ). In addition, the main pieces 451 of the two first inner shields 45 of the first connector 1 are joined to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91 by solder (see Figure 15 , Figure 19 ), and the joint portions 415, 425 of the first outer shield 41 are joined to the ground pattern 910 of the first circuit board 91 by solder (see Figures 15 - 19 ).

[0241] In the first connector 1, the terminal piece 312 of the first specific terminal 31 is arranged at the center between a pair of first horizontal shields 410 when viewed from the first axis A1. That is, the terminal piece 312 is arranged at symmetric positions on the second axis A2. As a result, the degree of freedom in the wiring design of the first circuit board 91 to which the first connector 1 is connected is increased, and miniaturization of the first connection device 101 can be achieved.

[0242] (2.3.2) The second connection device

[0243] In the second connection device 102, the two second specific terminals 71 (terminal pieces 714 thereof) of the second connector 5 are respectively joined to the two conductor patterns 921 of the second circuit board 92 by solder (see Figure 16 ). In addition, the six second connection terminals 72 (terminal pieces 726 thereof) of the second connector 5 are respectively joined to the six conductor patterns 922 of the second circuit board 92 by solder (see Figure 17). In addition, the main pieces 851 and terminal pieces 854 of the two second inner shields 85 of the second connector 5 are joined to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92 by solder, for example (see Figure 15 , Figure 17 , Figure 19 ). The joint portions 815 and 825 of the second outer shield 81 are joined to the ground pattern 920 of the second circuit board 92 by solder, for example (see Figures 15 - 19 ).

[0244] In the second connector 5, the terminal piece 714 of the second specific terminal 71 is disposed at the center between a pair of second horizontal shields 810 when viewed from the first axis A1. That is, the terminal piece 714 is disposed at symmetric positions on the second axis A2. As a result, the degree of freedom in the wiring design of the second circuit board 92 to which the second connector 5 is connected is increased, and miniaturization of the second connection device 102 can be achieved.

[0245] (2.4) Connector assembly

[0246] Regarding the structure of the connector assembly 100 in which the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are fitted together, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 14 - 19 for description. As shown in Figure 1 , Figure 14 , the first connector 1 (the mating connector) is fitted from above the second connector 5 (the connector).

[0247] (2.4.1) Connection of terminals

[0248] In the fitted state, the two first specific terminals 31 of the first connector 1 are respectively in contact with and electrically connected to the two second specific terminals 71 of the second connector 5. As a result, signals can be transmitted and received between the first circuit board 91 on which the first connector 1 is mounted and the second circuit board 92 on which the second connector 5 is mounted via the first specific terminal 31 and the second specific terminal 71. As shown in Figure 18 , in the fitted state, the first contact piece 313 of the first specific terminal 31 and the second contact piece 713 of the second specific terminal 71 are in contact with each other. Specifically, in the fitted state, the first contact 315 on the outer surface of the first contact piece 313 of the first specific terminal 31 with respect to the second axis A2 is in contact with the second contact 711 of the second contact piece 713 of the second specific terminal 71.

[0249] In the mated state, the holding piece 715 of the second specific terminal 71 is not in contact with and is separated from the first specific terminal 31. Further, the connecting piece 314 of the first specific terminal 31 faces the connecting piece 712 of the second specific terminal 71. The connecting piece 314 of the first specific terminal 31 and the connecting piece 712 of the second specific terminal 71 are not in contact with and are separated from each other. The lower surface of the connecting piece 314 of the first specific terminal 31 and the upper surface of the connecting piece 712 of the second specific terminal 71 are parallel to each other. In the mated state, the first specific terminal 31 and the second specific terminal 71 are in contact only at one location (the first contact point 315 and the second contact point 711). The contact pressure between the first contact point 315 and the second contact point 711 is ensured by the elastic force of the second contact piece 713 of the second specific terminal 71 or the like.

[0250] In the connector assembly 100 of the present embodiment, the second specific terminal 71 of the second connector 5 (connector) is in contact with the first specific terminal 31 of the first connector 1 (the other connector) only at one location (the second contact point 711). Therefore, it is possible to suppress fluctuations in the characteristic impedance along the current path while ensuring the connection reliability between the terminals. By suppressing fluctuations in the characteristic impedance, it is possible to reduce losses caused by reflection of high-frequency signals.

[0251] Further, in the mated state, the six first connection terminals 32 of the first connector 1 are respectively in contact with and electrically connected to the six second connection terminals 72 of the second connector 5. Thereby, it is possible to transmit and receive signals between the first circuit board 91 on which the first connector 1 is mounted and the second circuit board 92 on which the second connector 5 is mounted via the first connection terminals 32 and the second connection terminals 72.

[0252] Specifically, the first connection terminal 32 is in contact with the second connection terminal 72 through the surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) inside the second axis A2 of the protruding piece 321 and the surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) outside the second axis A2 of the contact piece 322. Further, the second connection terminal 72 is in contact with the first connection terminal 32 through the surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) inside the second axis A2 of the contact piece 721 and the surface (the surface intersecting the thickness direction) outside the second axis A2 of the standing piece 723.

[0253] More specifically, between the contact piece 721 and the erected piece 723 of the second connection terminal 72, the protruding piece 321, the contact piece 322, and the connecting piece 323 of the first connection terminal 32 are inserted. Moreover, the recessed portion 3210 of the contact piece 721 contacts the protruding piece 321. Thus, it is assumed that the first connection terminal 32 is clamped between the contact piece 721 and the erected piece 723, so that the second connection terminal 72 contacts the first connection terminal 32. Through the elastic force of the spring piece 722 of the second connection terminal 72 and the like, the contact pressure between the protruding piece 321 and the contact piece 721 is ensured, and the contact pressure between the contact piece 322 and the erected piece 723 is ensured.

[0254] (2.4.2) Connection of the shielding body

[0255] In the mated state, the first outer shielding body 41 of the first connector 1 contacts and is electrically connected to the second outer shielding body 81 of the second connector 5. In addition, in the mated state, the first inner shielding body 45 of the first connector 1 contacts and is electrically connected to the second inner shielding body 85 of the second connector 5. Thus, the potentials of the first shielding body 4 and the second shielding body 8 become the same ground potential.

[0256] As Figures 15 - 19 shown, in the mated state, at least one of the outer surface of the inner connecting portion 806 (816, 826) in the second outer shielding body 81 and the outer surface of the inner wall 801 (the second side wall portions 811, 821) contacts the first outer shielding body 41. Here, both the outer surface of the inner connecting portion 806 (816, 826) and the outer surface of the inner wall 801 (the second side wall portions 811, 821) in the second outer shielding body 81 contact the first outer shielding body 41.

[0257] More specifically, as Figure 15 , Figure 18 shown, in the mated state, the third portion 873 (8731, 8732) of the outer surface of the inner opposing portion 865 (866, 867) in the inner wall 801 (the second side wall portions 811, 821) contacts the concave surface 407 (417, 427) of the first outer shielding body 41. In addition, as Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 19 shown, in the mated state, the fourth portion 874 (8741, 8742) of the outer surface of the inner opposing portion 865 (866, 867) in the inner wall 801 (the second side wall portions 811, 821) contacts the reference surface 406 (416, 426) of the first outer shielding body 41.

[0258] In addition, as Figure 15 , Figure 18As shown, in the fitted state, the lower end portion (the portion near the boundary with the third portion 873) of the first portion 871 (8711, 8712) on the outer surface of the inner curved portion 860 (861, 862) in the connecting portion 802 (812, 822) contacts the concave surface 407 (417, 427) of the first outer shield 41. Further, as Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 19 shown, in the fitted state, the lower end portion (the portion near the boundary with the fourth portion 874) of the second portion 872 (8721, 8722) on the outer surface of the inner curved portion 860 (861, 862) in the connecting portion 802 (812, 822) contacts the reference surface 406 (416, 426) of the first outer shield 41.

[0259] In other words, in the fitted state, at least one of the first surface and the second surface (both in this case) contacts the first outer shield 41. The first surface includes the first portion 871 and the portion (the third portion 873) that is continuously connected to the first portion 871 (8711, 8712) without a step in the inner opposing portion 865 (866, 867). The second surface includes the second portion 872 and the portion (the fourth portion 874) that is continuously connected to the second portion 872 (8721, 8722) without a step in the inner opposing portion 865 (866, 867). In the present embodiment, in the fitted state, the outer surface of the second outer shield 81 contacts the first outer shield 41. Specifically, in the fitted state, at least one of the first portion 871 and the second portion 872 of the second outer shield 81 (both in this case) contacts the first outer shield 41. Further, in the fitted state, at least one of the third portion 873 and the fourth portion 874 of the second outer shield 81 (both in this case) contacts the first outer shield 41. Additionally, the first portion 871 may be away from and not contact the first outer shield 41, and the second portion 872 may be away from and not contact the first outer shield 41.

[0260] Furthermore, as Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 19 shown, in the fitted state, the outer surface of the portion of the inner wall 801 (the second side wall portion 811, 821) that is lower than the inner opposing portion 865 (866, 867) contacts the reference surface 406 (416, 426) of the first outer shield 41.

[0261] From the perspective of the first connector 1 (the mating connector), the outer surface of the first outer shield 41 (the first side wall portion 401 thereof) has a reference surface 406 (416, 426) and a concave surface 407 (417, 427). Moreover, in the mated state, the second outer shield 81 (the shield) contacts at least one (both in this case) of the reference surface 406 and the concave surface 407. In the present embodiment, in the mated state, the third portion 873 of the outer surface of the inner opposing portion 865 of the second outer shield 81 contacts the concave surface 407, and the fourth portion 874 of the outer surface of the inner opposing portion 865 of the second outer shield 81 and the outer surface of the inner wall 801 contact the reference surface 406. In addition, in the mated state, the first portion 871 of the second outer shield 81 contacts the concave surface 407, and the second portion 872 contacts the reference surface 406.

[0262] In the mated state, at least one of the first portion 871 of the inner bent portion 860 and the third portion 873 of the inner opposing portion 865 of the second outer shield 81 linearly contacts the concave surface 407 of the first outer shield 41, and more preferably, contacts in a planar manner. In addition, in the mated state, at least one of the second portion 872 of the inner bent portion 860 and the fourth portion 874 of the inner opposing portion 865 of the second outer shield 81 linearly contacts the reference surface 406 of the first outer shield 41, and more preferably, contacts in a planar manner. Further, on the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81, the outer surface of the portion located more downward than the inner opposing portion 865 linearly contacts the reference surface 406 of the first outer shield 41, and more preferably, contacts in a planar manner. The first horizontal shield 410 of the first outer shield 41 and the second horizontal shield 810 of the second outer shield 81 preferably contact seamlessly along the third axis A3 between the cuts 83 of the second outer shield 81. The first vertical shield 420 of the first outer shield 41 and the second vertical shield 820 of the second outer shield 81 preferably contact seamlessly along the second axis A2 between the cuts 83 of the second outer shield 81. In the mated state, a shield can be continuously formed by the first outer shield 41 and the second outer shield 81. Thereby, the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be improved.

[0263] When the first connector 1 is mated with the second connector 5, as Figure 1 , Figure 14As shown, the first connector 1 is positioned above the second connector 5. If the first connector 1 is moved downward from this state, a portion of the first side wall portion 401 of the first outer shield 41 that is below the recess 47 in the reference plane 416 comes into contact with the protruding portion 88 (at least one of the first portion 871 and the third portion 873) of the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81. As a result, the first side wall portion 401 of the first outer shield 41 flexes inward, and the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81 flexes outward.

[0264] If the first connector 1 is further moved downward from here, the protruding portion 88 enters the recess 47, and the first side wall portion 401 and the inner wall 801 return to their original shapes. At this time, the protruding portion 88 collides with the concave surface 407, providing a so-called click feeling to the user holding the first outer shield 41. Therefore, the user can easily grasp the fact that the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are engaged.

[0265] In the engaged state where the first connector 1 and the second connector 5 are engaged (refer to Figures 15 - 19 ), a shield is formed by the first outer shield 41 and the second outer shield 81 to surround the plurality of first terminals 3 and the plurality of second terminals 7. In the engaged state, in the space between the first circuit board 91 and the second circuit board 92, all of the plurality of first terminals 3 and the plurality of second terminals 7 are surrounded by the shield formed by the first shield 4 and the second shield 8 over the entire circumference without gaps. Thereby, the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be improved. In particular, preferably, in the space between the first circuit board 91 and the second circuit board 92, the first specific terminal 31 and the second specific terminal 71 for transmitting high-frequency signals are surrounded by the shield formed by the first shield 4 and the second shield 8 over the entire circumference without gaps.

[0266] In addition, as Figure 19 shown, in the connector assembly 100 of the present embodiment, in the engaged state, the end face along the thickness direction of the first inner shield 45 (the end face intersecting the second axis A2) and the end face along the thickness direction of the second inner shield 85 are in contact. Thereby, the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be improved.

[0267] In addition, in the engaged state, the protruding portion 88 that enters the recess 47 is caught by the edge portion of the recess 47, so that the first connector 1 is difficult to separate from the second connector 5. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the engaged state from being accidentally released.

[0268] When removing the second connector 5 from the first connector 1, from Figures 15 - 19The state causes the first connector 1 to move upward. As a result, the protruding portion 88 of the second outer shield 81 moves relatively downward within the recess 47 of the first outer shield 41, and the lower end of the protruding portion 88 contacts the edge portion of the recess 47.

[0269] If the first connector 1 is further moved upward from this point, the protruding portion 88 crosses over the edge portion of the recess 47, and thus the protruding portion 88 moves outside the recess 47. As a result, the first side wall portion 401 of the first outer shield 41 flexes inward, and the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81 flexes outward. Here, in the connector assembly 100 of the present embodiment, an inclined surface 89 is formed at the lower end of the protruding portion 88, and an inclined surface 419 is formed at the edge portion of the recess 47. Therefore, the protruding portion 88 is not excessively caught by the edge portion of the recess 47. Accordingly, by applying a somewhat large force, the first connector 1 can be smoothly detached from the second connector 5. Further, by forming an inclined surface 845 at the lower end of the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81, it is also possible to prevent the edge portion of the recess 47 from being caught by the lower end of the inner wall 801. In particular, in the engaged state, the inclined surface 845 of the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81 is located at a position above the lower end of the first outer shield 41 (refer to Figure 15 , Figure 18 ). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the lower end of the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81 from being caught by the edge portion of the recess 47, and the first connector 1 can be smoothly detached from the second connector 5.

[0270] If the first connector 1 is further moved upward, the protruding portion 88 disengages from the outer surface of the first side wall portion 401, the first side wall portion 401 and the inner wall 801 return to their original shapes, and the first connector 1 is detached from the second connector 5.

[0271] (3) Modification

[0272] The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described embodiments. As long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved, the above-described embodiments can be variously changed according to design and the like. Hereinafter, modification examples of the above-described embodiments are listed. The modification examples described below can be applied in appropriate combinations.

[0273] (3.1) Modification Example 1

[0274] Regarding the connector assembly 100 of Modification Example 1, refer to Figure 20This will be described. The connector assembly 100 of this modification is different from the connector assembly 100 of the embodiment in the first outer shield 41 (opposite-side shield) of the first connector 1 (opposite-side connector). In the connector assembly 100 of this modification, for the structures common to the connector assembly 100 of the embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0275] As Figure 20 shown, the outer surface of the first outer shield 41 of the first connector 1 (opposite-side connector) of this modification has a reference plane 416 and a convex portion 48 protruding from the reference plane 416. The convex portion 48 protrudes, for example, in a semi-circular shape along the thickness direction of the first side wall portion 401 from the reference plane 416. As Figure 20 shown, the convex portion 48 has, for example, a first portion 481 extending along the first side wall portion 401, and second portions 482 and third portions 483 extending upward ( Figure 20 below) from both ends of the first portion 481, and is U-shaped when viewed in a direction orthogonal to the first axis A1. The convex portion 48 is formed at a position corresponding to the protruding portion 88 in the second outer shield 81 of the second connector 5 (connector) (the position where the recess 47 is provided in the first outer shield 41 of the embodiment).

[0276] In the mated state, the first portion 481 of the convex portion 48 is located below the protruding portion 88 of the second outer shield 81. Moreover, the outer surface of the first portion 481 of the convex portion 48 of the first outer shield 41 contacts the inner wall 801 of the second outer shield 81. In addition, the front end (at least one of the first portion 871 and the third portion 873) of the protruding portion 88 of the second outer shield 81 contacts the region surrounded by the convex portion 48 on three sides among the reference planes 406 of the first side wall portion 401 of the first outer shield 41. Thus, in the connector assembly 100 of this modification, in the mated state, the second outer shield 81 (shield) contacts at least one (both in this case) of the reference plane 406 and the convex portion 48.

[0277] In this modification, it is also possible to prevent the mated state of the second connector 5 (connector) and the first connector 1 (opposite-side connector) from being accidentally released, and it is easy to maintain the mated state of the first connector 1 and the second connector 5.

[0278] (3.2) Modification 2

[0279] Regarding the connector assembly 100 of Modification 2, refer to Figure 21This will be described. The connector assembly 100 of this modification is different from the connector assembly 100 of the embodiment in the second outer shield 81 (shield) of the second connector 5 (connector). For the structures common to the connector assembly 100 of this modification and the connector assembly 100 of the embodiment, the same reference numerals are used and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0280] As Figure 21 shown, when viewed along the first axis A1 (vertical direction), the second outer shield 81 of the second connector 5 (connector) of this modification is formed in a substantially rectangular shape having a corner portion 830 formed by connecting the second horizontal shield 810 and the second vertical shield 820.

[0281] The second side wall portion 811 of the second horizontal shield 810 and the second side wall portion 821 of the second vertical shield 820 are connected to each other via a connecting portion 831 in the circumferential direction at the corner portion 830. Thus, the second side wall portion 811 of the second horizontal shield 810 and the second side wall portion 821 of the second vertical shield 820 are formed seamlessly in the circumferential direction. In addition, the second connecting portion 812 of the second horizontal shield 810 and the second connecting portion 822 of the second vertical shield 820 are formed seamlessly in the circumferential direction. Further, the fourth side wall portion 813 of the second horizontal shield 810 and the fourth side wall portion 823 of the second vertical shield 820 are formed seamlessly in the circumferential direction. In short, in this modification, the second horizontal shield 810 and the second vertical shield 820 are formed seamlessly from the inner wall to the outer wall in the circumferential direction at the corner portion 830.

[0282] In this modification, it is also possible to continuously form a shield by the first outer shield 41 and the second outer shield 81 in the mated state. Thereby, the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be improved.

[0283] (3.3) Other modifications

[0284] In a modification, the second outer shield 81 (and / or the first outer shield 41) may not surround the entire circumference of the second terminal 7 (the first terminal 3). For example, the second outer shield 81 may be in a shape that surrounds three sides of the second terminal 7 (C-shaped when viewed along the first axis A1).

[0285] In a modification, the second outer shield 81 (and / or the first outer shield 41) may be constituted by combining a plurality of members. For example, the second outer shield 81 may be constituted by combining two members that are L-shaped when viewed along the first axis A1.

[0286] In a modification, the protruding portion 88 may not be formed on the inner opposing portion 865 and may be formed only on the inner bending portion 860. That is, the third portion 873 may not exist.

[0287] (Summary)

[0288] As described above, the connector (the second connector 5) involved in the first method is a connector that mates with a mating connector (the first connector 1) having a mating-side shield (the first outer shield 41). The connector includes a housing (the second housing 6), terminals (the second terminals 7), and a shield (the second outer shield 81). The terminals are held by the housing. The shield is held by the housing so as to surround the terminals in the circumferential direction. The shield is configured to contact the mating-side shield in the mated state where the connector and the mating connector are mated. The connector is configured to be connected to the mating connector by moving toward the mating connector. The shield has an outer wall (803), an inner wall (801), and a connecting portion (802). The outer wall (803) has an outer opposing portion (895). The inner wall (801) has an inner opposing portion (865). The inner wall (801) is located at a position closer to the inside of the connector than the outer wall (803). The connecting portion (802) connects the outer wall (803) and the inner wall (801). The connecting portion (802) has an inner connecting portion (806) connected to the inner opposing portion (865), an outer connecting portion (809) connected to the outer opposing portion (895), and an upper connecting portion (808) connecting the inner connecting portion (806) and the outer connecting portion (809). The inner connecting portion (806) has an inner bent portion (860) bent so as to bulge toward the inside of the connector. The outer connecting portion (809) has an outer bent portion (890) bent so as to bulge toward the outside of the connector. The inner bent portion (860) and the outer bent portion (890) are connected via the upper connecting portion (808). The outer opposing portion (895) and the inner opposing portion (865) oppose each other with a gap therebetween. The outer surface of the inner bent portion (860) has a first portion (871) and a second portion (872). The second portion (872) is continuous with the first portion (871). A step is formed by the first portion (871) and the second portion (872). A part of the first portion (871) is located at a position closer to the inside of the connector than the second portion (872).

[0289] According to this method, a connector that can easily maintain the mated state with the mating connector can be obtained.

[0290] In the connector of the second method, it is configured that in the mated state, the outer surface of the inner bent portion (860) contacts the mating-side shield.

[0291] According to this method, by the shield contacting the mating-side shield, improvement in electromagnetic wave shielding performance can be achieved.

[0292] In the connector of the third mode, it is configured such that in the mated state, the first part (871) or the second part (872) contacts the mating-side shield.

[0293] According to this mode, by contacting the shield with the mating-side shield, it is possible to improve the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves.

[0294] In the connector of the fourth mode, the inner opposing part (865) has a first surface or a second surface that contacts the mating-side shield in the mated state. The first surface includes a first part (871) and a third part (873) that is continuously connected to the first part (871) without a step. The second surface includes a second part (872) and a fourth part (874) that is continuously connected to the second part (872) without a step. A part of the third part (873) is located closer to the inner side of the connector than the fourth part (874).

[0295] According to this mode, by contacting the mating-side shield with the first surface and / or the second surface, it is possible to improve the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves.

[0296] In the connector of the fifth mode, it is configured such that in the mated state, the third part (873) or the fourth part (874) of the shield contacts the mating-side shield.

[0297] According to this mode, by contacting the mating-side shield with the third part (873) and / or the fourth part (874), it is possible to improve the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves.

[0298] In the connector of the sixth mode, the outer surface of the mating-side shield has a reference surface (406) and a concave surface (407) that is recessed from the reference surface (406). The shield is configured to contact the reference surface (406) or the concave surface (407) in the mated state.

[0299] According to this mode, by contacting the shield with the reference surface (406) and / or the concave surface (407), it is possible to improve the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves. In addition, by contacting the shield with the concave surface (407), it is easy to maintain the mated state with the mating-side connector.

[0300] In the connector of the seventh mode, the outer surface of the mating-side shield has a reference surface (406) and a convex part (48) that protrudes from the reference surface (406). The shield is configured to contact the reference surface (406) or the convex part (48) in the mated state.

[0301] According to this mode, by contacting the shield with the reference surface (406) and / or the convex part (48), it is possible to improve the shielding performance against electromagnetic waves. In addition, by contacting the shield with the reference surface (406) below the convex part (48), it is easy to maintain the mated state with the mating-side connector.

[0302] In the connector of the eighth mode, in any of the first to seventh modes, the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the first portion (871) in the inner bending portion (860) is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the second portion (872) in the inner bending portion (860).

[0303] According to this mode, the first portion (871) can be manufactured by rolling, preventing a decrease in shielding performance and simplifying the process.

[0304] In the connector of the ninth mode, the inner wall (801) has an inclined surface (845) at the end away from the connecting portion (802).

[0305] According to this mode, when the connector is detached from the mating connector, it can be detached smoothly.

[0306] In the connector of the tenth mode, it is configured that in the engaged state, the inclined surface (845) of the inner wall (801) of the shielding body is located above the lower end of the mating shielding body.

[0307] According to this mode, when the connector is detached from the mating connector, it can be detached smoothly.

[0308] In the connector of the eleventh mode, the shielding body surrounds the terminal seamlessly in the circumferential direction.

[0309] According to this mode, an improvement in shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be achieved.

[0310] In the connector of the twelfth mode, the mating connector further includes: a mating terminal (first terminal 3), configured to be connected to the terminal of the connector in the engaged state. The mating shielding body surrounds the mating terminal seamlessly in the circumferential direction.

[0311] According to this mode, an improvement in shielding performance against electromagnetic waves can be achieved.

[0312] The connector assembly of the thirteenth mode includes a connector of any of the first to twelfth modes and a mating connector.

[0313] According to this mode, a connector assembly that can easily maintain the engaged state between the connector and the mating connector can be obtained.

[0314] The connecting device (second connecting device 102) of the fourteenth mode includes a connector of any of the first to thirteenth modes and a circuit board (second circuit board 92) to which the connector is connected.

[0315] According to this mode, a connecting device having a connector that can easily maintain the engaged state with the mating connector can be obtained.

[0316] Symbol Explanation

[0317] 1 First Connector (Counterpart Connector)

[0318] 101 First Connection Device

[0319] 102 Second Connection Device (Connection Device)

[0320] 2 First Housing

[0321] 3 First Terminal (Counterpart Terminal)

[0322] 32 First Connection Terminal

[0323] 4 First Shield

[0324] 401, 411, 421 First Side Wall Portion

[0325] 406, 416, 426 Reference Plane

[0326] 407, 417 Concave Surface

[0327] 409, 419, 429 Inclined Plane

[0328] 41 First Outer Shield (Counterpart Shield)

[0329] 410 First Horizontal Shield

[0330] 412 First Connecting Portion

[0331] 415 Joint Portion

[0332] 420 First Vertical Shield

[0333] 422 First Connecting Portion

[0334] 425 Joint Portion

[0335] 427 Concave Surface

[0336] 48 Protrusion

[0337] 5 Second Connector (Connector)

[0338] 6 Second Housing (Housing)

[0339] 61 Second Inner Bottom Wall

[0340] 62 Second Inner Peripheral Wall

[0341] 63 Second Outer Bottom Wall

[0342] 64 Second Outer Peripheral Wall

[0343] 65 units

[0344] 7th second terminal (terminal)

[0345] 72nd second connection terminal

[0346] 8th second shield

[0347] 801 inner wall

[0348] 802 connecting part

[0349] 803 outer wall

[0350] 806, 816 inner connecting part

[0351] 808, 818 upper connecting part

[0352] 809, 819 outer connecting part

[0353] 81st second outer shield (shield)

[0354] 810th second horizontal shield

[0355] 811, 821 second side wall part

[0356] 812, 822 second connecting part

[0357] 813, 823 fourth side wall part

[0358] 814 extension part

[0359] 815, 825 joint part

[0360] 826 inner connecting part

[0361] 828 upper connecting part

[0362] 829 outer connecting part

[0363] 845 inclined surface

[0364] 860, 861, 862 inner bending part

[0365] 865, 866, 867 inner opposing part

[0366] 871, 8711, 8712 first part

[0367] 872, 8721, 8722 second part

[0368] 873, 8731, 8732 third part

[0369] 874, 8741, 8742 fourth part

[0370] 89 Inclined surface

[0371] 890, 891, 892 Outer curved portions

[0372] 895, 896 Outer opposed portions

[0373] 897 Outer opposed portion

[0374] 91 First circuit board

[0375] 92 Second circuit board (circuit board)

[0376] A1 First axis.

Claims

1. A connector that is fitted to a mating connector having a mating-side shield, the connector comprising: a housing; terminals held by the housing; and a shield held by the housing so as to surround the terminals in the circumferential direction and configured to contact the mating-side shield in a fitted state where the connector and the mating connector are fitted together, the connector being configured to be connected to the mating connector by moving toward the mating connector, the shield having: an outer wall having an outer opposing portion; an inner wall having an inner opposing portion, located at a position closer to the inside of the connector than the outer wall; and a connecting portion connecting the outer wall and the inner wall, the connecting portion having: an inner connecting portion having an inner bent portion bent so as to bulge toward the inside of the connector and connected to the inner opposing portion; an outer connecting portion having an outer bent portion bent so as to bulge toward the outside of the connector and connected to the outer opposing portion; and an upper connecting portion connecting the inner connecting portion and the outer connecting portion, the inner bent portion and the outer bent portion being connected via the upper connecting portion, the outer opposing portion and the inner opposing portion opposing each other with a gap therebetween, an outer surface of the inner bent portion having: a first portion; and a second portion continuous with the first portion, a step being formed by the first portion and the second portion, a part of the first portion being located at a position closer to the inside of the connector than the second portion.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the connector is configured such that, in the fitted state, the outer surface of the inner bent portion contacts the mating-side shield.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein the connector is configured such that, in the fitted state, the first portion or the second portion contacts the mating-side shield.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the inner opposing portion has a first surface or a second surface that contacts the mating-side shield in the fitted state, the first surface includes the first portion and a third portion continuously connected to the first portion without a step, the second surface includes the second portion and a fourth portion continuously connected to the second portion without a step, a part of the third portion being located at a position closer to the inside of the connector than the fourth portion.

5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein the connector is configured such that, in the fitted state, the third portion or the fourth portion contacts the mating-side shield.

6. The connector according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein an outer surface of the mating-side shield has a reference surface and a concave surface recessed from the reference surface, the shield being configured to contact the reference surface or the concave surface in the fitted state.

7. The connector according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein an outer surface of the mating-side shield has a reference surface and a convex portion protruding from the reference surface, the shield being configured to contact the reference surface or the convex portion in the fitted state.

8. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the first portion in the inner bent portion is greater than the maximum thickness of the portion corresponding to the second portion in the inner bent portion.

9. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the inner wall has an inclined surface at the end away from the connecting portion.

10. The connector according to claim 9, wherein, the connector is configured such that in the engaged state, the inclined surface of the inner wall is located at a position higher than the lower end of the other-side shield.

11. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the shield surrounds the terminal seamlessly along the circumferential direction.

12. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, the other-side connector further includes: an other-side terminal configured to be connected to the terminal of the connector in the engaged state, and the other-side shield surrounds the other-side terminal seamlessly along the circumferential direction.

13. A connector assembly, comprising: the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and the other-side connector.

14. A connection device, comprising: the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and a circuit board connecting the connector.

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