Connector and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector and a manufacturing method thereof. The connector may include: at least one conductive connector pin; a pre-molded member formed such that the connector pin penetrates the pre-molded member and both ends of the connector pin protrude from a first surface and a second surface of the pre-molded member, respectively; and a housing configured to expose at least one end of the connector pin to the outside and accommodate the pre-molded member therein, in which the housing has a shape surrounding the pre-molded member in all directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector and a method of manufacturing the same, and more particularly to a connector and a method of manufacturing the same that can form a waterproof structure through a simple structure. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a vehicle includes an electronic controller for electronically controlling various devices, such as an electronic control unit (ECU). The electronic controller receives information from sensors or switches installed in corresponding parts of the vehicle. The electronic controller processes the received information to improve the ride comfort and safety of the vehicle or perform various electronic controls to provide various convenient functions to drivers and passengers.

[0003] For example, with the development of vehicles and computers, an electronic controller (such as an ECU) controls the states of the engine, automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system (ABS), etc. of the vehicle through computer functions to control all parts of the vehicle (such as the driving system, braking system, and steering system) and control the automatic transmission.

[0004] Electronic controllers are generally detachably connected through connectors for easy assembly and maintenance.

[0005] The connector needs to be waterproof to protect against moisture because the connector is easily exposed to moisture such as rainwater when the vehicle is running.

[0006] A male connector with its connector pins exposed to the outside is generally manufactured by inserting the connector pins into a connector mold that has been injected. At this time, an adhesive interface is formed between the connector pins plated with nickel, gold, etc. and the plastic of the connector mold, making it unable to perform a waterproof function.

[0007] Existing waterproof connectors have ensured airtightness by potting the connector pins and plastic.

[0008] However, in order to perform potting, an additional injection molding of the connector mold, application of an elastic material (such as epoxy resin) to achieve airtightness, and then hardening of the resulting structure are required. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present embodiment provides a connector and a method of manufacturing the same that can form a waterproof structure through a simple structure.

[0010] The present embodiment provides a connector and a method of manufacturing the same in which components are firmly coupled to each other.

[0011] The present embodiment provides a connector and a method of manufacturing the same that can simplify the production process.

[0012] This embodiment provides a connector capable of reducing costs and a manufacturing method thereof.

[0013] Additional aspects of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present disclosure.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a connector may include: at least one conductive connector pin; a pre-molded part formed such that the connector pin penetrates the pre-molded part and both ends of the connector pin protrude from a first surface and a second surface of the pre-molded part respectively; and a housing configured to expose at least one end of the connector pin to the outside and accommodate the pre-molded part in the housing, wherein the housing may have a shape surrounding the pre-molded part in all directions.

[0015] The housing may be in direct contact with and adhered to all surfaces of the pre-molded part.

[0016] The pre-molded part may be molded by inserting and injecting the connector pin.

[0017] The pre-molded part may be formed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material.

[0018] The housing may be molded by inserting and injecting the connector pin penetrating and connected in parallel to the pre-molded part.

[0019] The edge of the pre-molded part may be chamfered or rounded.

[0020] On the outer surface of the pre-molded part, a plurality of convex parts may be provided.

[0021] On the outer surface of the pre-molded part, a plurality of concave parts may be provided.

[0022] The pre-molded part may have a shape with at least one groove provided on its outer surface.

[0023] The connector pin may include at least one protrusion protruding outside the pre-molded part in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the connector pin and positioned inside the housing.

[0024] The protrusion may be provided as at least two protrusions respectively provided outside the first surface and the second surface of the pre-molded part.

[0025] The housing may include a wall part surrounding the protruding end of the connector pin.

[0026] The wall part may be integrally formed with the housing.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a connector may include: preparing conductive connector pins; injection molding a pre-molded part such that the connector pins penetrate the pre-molded part and both ends of the connector pins protrude from a first surface and a second surface of the pre-molded part, respectively; and injection molding a housing configured to expose at least one end of the connector pins to the outside and accommodate the pre-molded part in the housing, wherein the housing may have a shape surrounding the pre-molded part in all directions.

[0028] The injection molding of the housing may include injection molding the housing such that the housing is in direct contact with and adheres to all surfaces of the pre-molded part.

[0029] The injection molding of the pre-molded part may include injection molding the pre-molded part with a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material.

[0030] The injection molding of the housing may include molding the housing by inserting and injecting the pre-molded part through which the connector pins penetrate and are connected in parallel.

[0031] The connector pins may include at least one protrusion protruding outside the pre-molded part in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pins, and the injection molding of the housing may include injection molding the housing such that the protrusion is positioned inside the housing.

[0032] The protrusions may be provided as at least two protrusions respectively provided outside a first surface of the pre-molded part and outside a second surface of the pre-molded part.

[0033] The injection molding of the housing may include forming a wall portion surrounding a protruding end of the connector pins.

[0034] The wall portion may be injection molded integrally with the housing. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0035] These and / or other aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent and be more readily understood by reference to the following description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a connector according to an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of Figure 1 ;

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to a first embodiment;

[0039] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to a second embodiment;

[0040] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to the third embodiment;

[0041] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to the fourth embodiment;

[0042] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to the fifth embodiment;

[0043] Figure 8 is a front view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to the sixth embodiment; and

[0044] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing a connector according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0045] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are provided to fully convey the concept of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and may be implemented in another form. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description may not be shown to clarify the present disclosure, and the dimensions of the components may be exaggerated more or less for easy understanding.

[0046] The working principle and embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0047] Connector 10

[0048] Hereinafter, the configuration of the connector 10 according to an embodiment will be described.

[0049] Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a connector according to an embodiment, Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of Figure 1 the.

[0050] The connector 10 according to an embodiment can form a waterproof structure only by injection molding without potting.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the connector 10 according to an embodiment may include: at least one conductive connector pin 100; a pre-molded part 200 through which the connector pin 100 penetrates such that both ends of the connector pin 100 protrude from a first surface 201 and a second surface 202, respectively; and a housing 300 that exposes at least one end of the connector pin 100 to the outside of the housing and houses the pre-molded part 200 therein.

[0052] One end of the connector pin 100 may be exposed to the outside to contact a terminal of another connector, specifically, a female connector. In addition, the other end of the connector pin 100 may be coupled to a substrate (not shown) accommodated in the housing 300 to be electrically connected to the substrate, or may be connected to a separate wire to be electrically connected to an electronic device (not shown) through the wire.

[0053] The connector 10 may be provided with a plurality of connector pins 100, and when the connector 10 is coupled to a female connector (not shown), the plurality of connector pins 100 may be electrically connected / disconnected from the female connector simultaneously. The plurality of connector pins 100 may have the same shape or different thicknesses and shapes according to the purpose.

[0054] In addition, the plurality of connector pins 100 may be arranged at regular intervals or irregular intervals according to the purpose.

[0055] In this case, when the connector 10 is coupled to the female connector, one ends of the plurality of connector pins 100 exposed to the outside may extend in the same direction to be easily inserted into the terminals of the female connector and contact the terminals of the female connector.

[0056] One ends of the plurality of connector pins 100 exposed to the outside may have inclined surfaces to be easily inserted into the terminals of the female connector.

[0057] In Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, each connector pin 100 may have a cross-section in a quadrilateral shape and an end in a quadrilateral pyramid shape to be easily inserted into the terminals of the female connector. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the ends of the connector pins 100 may have a circular shape or a flat shape.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the connector pin 100 may penetrate the pre-molded part 200. One end of the connector pin 100 may protrude from the first surface 201 of the pre-molded part 200, and the other end of the connector pin 100 may protrude from the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200.

[0059] In this case, the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 may face in opposite directions, as Figure 2 shown. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 may face in directions perpendicular to each other or may face in the same direction. In this case, the connector pin 100 may have a bent shape such that both ends of the connector pin 100 protrude from the first surface 201 and the second surface 202, respectively.

[0060] For example, in the case where the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 face each other in a perpendicular direction, the connector pin 100 may have an "L" - shaped bent shape inside the pre - molded part 200 such that one end of the connector pin 100 protrudes from the first surface 201 and the other end of the connector pin 100 protrudes from the second surface 202.

[0061] Moreover, in the case where the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 face the same direction, the connector pin 100 may have a "U" - shaped bent shape inside the pre - molded part 200 such that one end of the connector pin 100 protrudes from the first surface 201 and the other end of the connector pin 100 protrudes from the second surface 202.

[0062] In the case where the connector 10 includes a plurality of connector pins 100, the plurality of connector pins 100 may be fixed at preset positions by penetrating the pre - molded part 200.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the pre - molded part 200 may be formed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material. Preferably, the pre - molded part 200 may be formed by injection molding with a TPE material.

[0064] The pre - molded part 200 may be formed of a TPE material to ensure adhesion to the connector pin 100 positioned by penetrating the pre - molded part 200. The TPE material may be injection - molded by applying heat thereto, and the TPE material cooled after being injected may exhibit high elastic characteristics.

[0065] The pre - molded part 200 may ensure adhesion to the connector pin 100 penetrating the pre - molded part 200 and may guide the position of the connector pin 100 inside the housing 300 when molding the housing 300.

[0066] The housing 300 may form the appearance of the connector 10 while forming a frame in which one end of the connector pin 100 is exposed to the outside and is fixed to be coupled to a female connector.

[0067] The housing 300 may be formed of an electrically insulating material such as synthetic resin.

[0068] In this case, the housing 300 may have a shape surrounding all surfaces of the pre - molded part 200. According to an embodiment, since the pre - molded part 200 is formed of a TPE material to be elastic, the housing 300 surrounding all surfaces of the pre - molded part 200 may maintain the appearance of the connector 10 and fix the connector pin 100 at a preset position.

[0069] In particular, as Figure 2As shown, the housing 300 can contact and adhere to all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200, including the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200. According to an embodiment, the housing 300 can be molded by inserting and injecting the connector pins 100 through and into the pre-molded part 200. Inserting and injecting the pre-molded part 200 includes molding the pre-molded part 200 onto the connector pins 100.

[0070] By inserting and injecting the pre-molded part 200 when molding the housing 300, the pre-molded part 200 can be remelted by the injection temperature, and the interfaces between the pre-molded part 200 and the housing 300 and between the pre-molded part 200 and the connector pins 100 can adhere to each other, and the interior of the connector 10 can be blocked from the external environment, thereby forming a waterproof structure.

[0071] The connector 10 according to an embodiment can form a waterproof structure through a simple manufacturing process of inserting and injecting the housing 300 of the pre-molded part 200 that includes the connector pins 100 penetrating and formed of a TPE material. Inserting and injecting the housing 300 includes molding the housing 300 onto the pre-molded part 200 penetrated by the connector pins 100.

[0072] Meanwhile, preferably, the connector 10 according to an embodiment can include a structure for firmly adhering components to fix the components, because the elastic pre-molded part 200 formed of a TPE material is accommodated inside the housing 300.

[0073] The connector pin 100 according to an embodiment can include at least one protrusion 110 that protrudes outside the pre-molded part 200 in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100 and is positioned inside the housing 300.

[0074] The protrusion 110 can protrude at a position where it contacts the housing 300 outside the pre-molded part 200, that is, in a direction ( Figure 2 the up and down direction) perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100 ( Figure 2 the left and right direction).

[0075] The housing 300 can be injection molded in such a way as to accommodate the protrusion 110 therein, and thereby, each connector pin 100 can be firmly coupled to the housing 300 through the protrusion 110.

[0076] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, at least two protrusions 110 can be respectively provided outside the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200. As Figure 2As shown, each connector pin 100 can be firmly coupled to the housing 300 by penetrating the pre-molded part 200 and including a first protrusion 111 protruding outside the first surface 201 and a second protrusion 112 protruding outside the second surface 202.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the pre-molded part 200 can be molded by inserting and injecting the connector pin 100. In this way, by inserting and injecting the connector pin 100, a plurality of protrusions 110 can be positioned on the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200, and the connector pin 100 can be in close contact with the pre-molded part 200.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 111 and the second protrusion 112 can be configured as a pair of protrusions protruding in opposite directions, so as to be firmly fixed to the housing 300.

[0079] According to an embodiment, one side of the protrusion 110 facing one end of the corresponding connector pin 100 can have a surface perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100, and the other side of the protrusion 110 facing the pre-molded part 200 can have a surface at a preset angle with respect to the extending direction of the connector pin 100. Therefore, the protrusion 110 can have a trapezoidal cross-section.

[0080] Since the cross-section of the protrusion is trapezoidal, the injection molding material can be easily injected when the housing 300 is injection molded, and thus, the coupling part between the connector pin 100 and the housing 300 can be firmly formed.

[0081] In addition, according to an embodiment, since the protrusion 110 protrudes outside the pre-molded part 200, in the process of manufacturing the connector 10, when the pre-molded part 200 is inserted and the connector pin 100 is injected, the position of the connector pin 100 can be easily aligned, and the connector pin 100 penetrating the pre-molded part 200 can be prevented from moving relative to the pre-molded part 200.

[0082] The housing 300 according to an embodiment can include a wall portion 310 surrounding the protruding end of the connector pin 100.

[0083] The wall portion 310 can surround the protruding end of the connector pin 100 to protect the connector pin 100 and provide a framework for enabling a female connector to be coupled to the connector pin 100.

[0084] The wall portion 310 can surround one end of the connector pin 100 to form a coupling space where the connector pin 100 protrudes, and by inserting the female connector into the coupling space, the connector pin 100 can come into contact with the terminals of the female connector. At this time, the housing of the female connector can be coupled to the wall portion 310 to maintain the contact between the connector pin 100 and the terminals. For example, the housing of the female connector can be coupled to the wall portion 310 by bringing the outer surface of the housing of the female connector into frictional contact with the wall portion 310, inserting a latch provided in the housing of the female connector into a groove in the wall portion 310, or coupling a protrusion provided in the housing of the female connector to a fixture provided in the wall portion 310.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the wall portion 310 can be integrally formed with the housing 300, and the wall portion 310 and the housing 300 can be integrally injection molded.

[0086] In this way, by integrally injection molding the wall portion 310 and the housing 300, the manufacturing process of the connector 10 can be simplified and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0087] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to the first embodiment.

[0088] Reference Figure 3 , shows a connector pin 100 and a pre-molded part 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0089] According to the first embodiment, a plurality of connector pins 100 can penetrate the pre-molded part 200 at preset positions, as described above. Figure 3 Shows an embodiment in which eight identical connector pins 100 are arranged in two rows. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, the connector pins 100 can have different sizes, a larger number of connector pins 100 can be provided, or the connector pins 100 can be arranged in a single row or irregularly.

[0090] The pre-molded part 200 can be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, a plurality of connector pins 100 can penetrate the pre-molded part 200, and the housing 300 can be inserted and injected outside the pre-molded part 200. At the same time, Figure 3 shows the pre-molded part 200 in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, the pre-molded part 200 can have another shape according to factors such as the shape of the connector, the arrangement of the pins, the manufacturing process, etc.

[0091] As described above, the pre-molded part 200 can ensure adhesion to the connector pins 100 penetrating the pre-molded part 200 and guide the position of the connector pins 100 inside the housing 300 when the housing 300 is molded.

[0092] Meanwhile, each connector pin 100 may include a protrusion 110 protruding in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100, which is not shown in Figure 3 this

[0093] The protrusion 110 may protrude in a direction ( Figure 3 the up and down direction of Figure 3 the connector pin 100) perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100 (

[0094] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the connector pin and the pre-molded part according to the second embodiment.

[0095] Referring to Figure 4 , a plurality of connector pins 100 may penetrate through the pre-molded part 200 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, as described above. Figure 4 An embodiment is shown in which four identical connector pins 100 are arranged in a row. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, the connector pins 100 may have different sizes, a larger number of connector pins 100 may be provided, or the connector pins 100 may be arranged in two rows or irregularly arranged.

[0096] Moreover, the pre-molded part 200 according to the second embodiment may include a plurality of convex portions 210 on the outer side.

[0097] Figure 4 A case is shown in which a plurality of convex portions 210 are provided on the upper side of the pre-molded part 200, that is, on the first surface 201 of the pre-molded part 200. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, a plurality of convex portions 210 may even be provided on the lower side of the pre-molded part 200, that is, on the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200, or a plurality of convex portions 210 may even be provided on the side surface of the pre-molded part 200.

[0098] The plurality of convex portions 210 may increase the adhesion between the housing 300 and the pre-molded part 200 to firmly couple the pre-molded part 200 to the housing 300 when injecting and molding the housing 300 around all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200.

[0099] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the connector pin and the pre-molded part according to the third embodiment.

[0100] Referring to Figure 5 , a plurality of connector pins 100 may penetrate through the pre-molded part 200 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5An embodiment is shown in which four identical connector pins 100 are arranged in a row. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the connector pins 100 may have different sizes, a greater number of connector pins 100 may be provided, or the connector pins 100 may be arranged in two rows or irregularly.

[0101] In addition, the pre-molded part 200 according to the third embodiment may include a plurality of concave portions 220 on the outer side.

[0102] Figure 5 A case is shown in which a plurality of concave portions 220 are provided on the upper side of the pre-molded part 200, that is, on the first surface 201 of the pre-molded part 200. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a plurality of concave portions 220 may even be provided on the lower side of the pre-molded part 200, that is, on the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200, or a plurality of concave portions 220 may even be provided on the side surface of the pre-molded part 200.

[0103] The plurality of concave portions 220 may increase the adhesion between the housing 300 and the pre-molded part 200 to firmly couple the pre-molded part 200 to the housing 300 when injecting and molding the housing 300 around all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200.

[0104] In addition, the pre-molded part 200 according to the embodiment may include on the outer surface Figure 4 all the plurality of concave portions 220 and the plurality of convex portions 210 shown. For example, the convex portions 210 and the concave portions 220 may be alternately arranged on the outer surface of the pre-molded part 200, and the convex portions 210 and the concave portions 220 may increase the adhesion between the housing 300 and the pre-molded part 200 to firmly couple the pre-molded part 200 to the housing 300 when injecting and molding the housing 300 around all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200.

[0105] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the connector pins and the pre-molded part according to the fourth embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 6 , according to the fourth embodiment, a plurality of connector pins 100 may penetrate the pre-molded part 200 at the preset positions as described above. Figure 6 An embodiment is shown in which eight identical connector pins 100 are arranged in two rows. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the connector pins 100 may have different sizes, a greater number of connector pins 100 may be provided, or the connector pins 100 may be arranged in one row or irregularly.

[0107] The pre-molded part 200 can be in the shape of a cuboid, multiple connector pins 100 can penetrate the pre-molded part 200, and the housing 300 can be inserted and injected outside the pre-molded part 200.

[0108] In this case, the pre-molded part 200 can be in the shape of a cuboid with rounded edges.

[0109] According to an embodiment, by rounding the edges of the pre-molded part 200, the injection molding material can be easily injected when the housing 300 is injection molded outside the pre-molded part 200, thereby improving the productivity of the housing 300.

[0110] In addition, as Figure 4 shown by a plurality of convex portions 210 or Figure 5 shown by a plurality of concave portions 220 can be provided on the outer surface of the pre-molded part 200, which is not shown in Figure 6 here.

[0111] Meanwhile, Figure 6 it is shown that the pre-molded part 200 is in the shape of a cuboid. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the pre-molded part 200 can have another shape according to factors such as the shape of the connector, the arrangement of the pins, the manufacturing process, etc. The pre-molded part 200 having another shape can also include a shape with rounded edges, and due to the rounded edges, the molding material of the housing 300 can be easily injected.

[0112] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a connector pin and a pre-molded part according to a fifth embodiment.

[0113] Referring to Figure 7 , according to the fifth embodiment, multiple connector pins 100 can penetrate the pre-molded part 200 at preset positions, as described above. Figure 7 An embodiment is shown in which eight identical connector pins 100 are arranged in two rows. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the connector pins 100 can have different sizes, a larger number of connector pins 100 can be provided, or the connector pins 100 can be arranged in a row or irregularly.

[0114] The pre-molded part 200 can be in the shape of a cuboid, multiple connector pins 100 can penetrate the pre-molded part 200, and the housing 300 can be inserted and injected outside the pre-molded part 200.

[0115] In this case, the pre-molded part 200 can be in the shape of a cuboid with chamfered edges.

[0116] According to an embodiment, by chamfering the edges of the pre-molded part 200, the injection molding material can be easily injected when the housing 300 is injection molded onto the outer side of the pre-molded part 200, thereby improving the productivity of the housing 300.

[0117] Moreover, as Figure 6 shown, the pre-molded part 200 may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, some of the edges of which are chamfered and the other edges are rounded.

[0118] In addition, as Figure 4 shown, a plurality of convex portions 210 or Figure 5 a plurality of concave portions 220 as Figure 7 shown may be provided on the outer surface of the pre-molded part 200, which

[0119] is not shown here. Figure 7 Meanwhile,

[0120] Figure 8 is a front view showing the connector pins and the pre-molded part according to the sixth embodiment.

[0121] Referring to Figure 8 , according to the sixth embodiment, a plurality of connector pins 100 may penetrate the pre-molded part 200 at preset positions, as described above.

[0122] The pre-molded part 200 may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, a plurality of connector pins 100 may penetrate the pre-molded part 200, and the housing 300 may be inserted and injected onto the outer side of the pre-molded part 200.

[0123] In this case, at least one groove 250 may be provided in the outer surface of the pre-molded part 200.

[0124] A plurality of grooves 250 may be provided. Figure 8 Shown are a first groove 251 and a second groove 252 that are horizontally formed parallel to each other in the side surface of the pre-molded part 200. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and grooves may even be provided in the first surface 201 or the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200.

[0125] The groove 250 can increase the adhesion between the housing 300 and the pre-molded part 200 to firmly connect the pre-molded part 200 to the housing 300 when the housing 300 surrounding all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200 is injection molded.

[0126] Moreover, the pre-molded part 200 according to the embodiment may include a groove 250 in a side surface, and may include a plurality of convex portions 210 as shown in Figure 4 or a plurality of concave portions 220 as shown in Figure 5 on the first surface 201 or the second surface 202.

[0127] By providing the convex portion 210, the concave portion 220, or the groove 250 in the outer surface of the pre-molded part 200, adhesion between the housing 300 and the pre-molded part 200 may be increased, and the pre-molded part 200 may be firmly coupled to the housing 300.

[0128] Method of manufacturing the connector 10

[0129] Hereinafter, a method of manufacturing the connector 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0130] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing a connector according to the embodiment.

[0131] Figure 9 A connector manufacturing method 1000 for manufacturing the connector 10 as described above is shown.

[0132] Referring to Figure 9 , a conductive connector pin 100 (1100) may be prepared.

[0133] A plurality of connector pins 100 may be prepared. In the case where a plurality of connector pins 100 are provided, the plurality of connector pins 100 may have the same shape or different thicknesses and shapes according to the purpose.

[0134] After preparing the connector pins 100, the pre-molded part 200 may be injection-molded such that the connector pins 100 penetrate the pre-molded part 200, and both ends of the connector pins 100 protrude from the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200 (1200).

[0135] As described above, in the case where a plurality of connector pins 100 are provided, the plurality of connector pins 100 may be arranged at regular intervals or irregularly according to the purpose.

[0136] In this case, the ends of the plurality of connector pins 100 exposed to the outside may extend in the same direction.

[0137] The pre-molded part 200 may be injection-molded such that the arranged plurality of connector pins 100 penetrate the pre-molded part 200. One end of the connector pin 100 may protrude from the first surface 201 of the pre-molded part 200, and the other end of the connector pin 100 may protrude from the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200.

[0138] According to an embodiment, the injection-molded pre-molded part 200 may include injection molding using a TPE material. By injection molding the pre-molded part 200 with the TPE material, adhesion between the pre-molded part 200 and the connector pins 100 penetrating the pre-molded part 200 can be ensured.

[0139] In Figures 3 to 8 various embodiments of coupling the connector pins 100 to the pre-molded part 200 by injection molding the pre-molded part 200 are shown.

[0140] According Figures 3 to 8 The pre-molded part 200 according to the shown embodiment may be injection molded by a mold corresponding to the pre-molded part 200.

[0141] After the pre-molded part 200 is injection molded, the housing 300 may be injection molded such that at least one end of the connector pins 100 is exposed to the outside and the pre-molded part 200 is accommodated inside the housing 300 (1300).

[0142] The housing 300 may form the appearance of the connector 10 and form a framework in which one end of the connector pins 100 is fixed while being exposed to the outside to be coupled to a female connector.

[0143] The housing 300 may have a shape surrounding all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200. In particular, as Figure 2 shown, the housing 300 may contact and adhere to all surfaces of the pre-molded part 200, including the first surface 201 and the second surface 202 of the pre-molded part 200.

[0144] To this end, the injection molding of the housing 300 (1300) may include insert injection and molding of the pre-molded part 200, through which the connector pins 100 penetrate and are coupled to the pre-molded part 200. By insert injecting the pre-molded part 200 when molding the housing 300, the pre-molded part 200 can be remelted by the injection temperature, and the interfaces between the pre-molded part 200 and the housing 300 and between the pre-molded part 200 and the connector pins 100 can adhere to each other, and the inside of the connector 10 can be blocked from the external environment, thereby forming a waterproof structure.

[0145] According to an embodiment, the connector 10 can simplify the manufacturing process and form a waterproof structure by insert injecting the housing 300 including the pre-molded part 200, through which the connector pins 100 penetrate and the pre-molded part 200 is formed of a TPE material inside.

[0146] Meanwhile, as described above, each connector pin 100 may include at least one protrusion 110 protruding outside the pre-molded part 200 in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the connector pin 100. In this case, the injection-molded housing 300 (1300) may include the injection-molded housing 300 such that the protrusion 110 is positioned inside the housing 300.

[0147] Thus, since the housing 300 is injection-molded such that the protrusion 110 is received inside the housing 300, the connector pin 100 can be firmly coupled to the housing 300 through the protrusion 110.

[0148] Meanwhile, as described above, the housing 300 may include a wall portion 310 surrounding the protruding end of the connector pin 100.

[0149] Therefore, the injection-molded housing 300 (1300) may include forming the wall portion 310.

[0150] At this time, the wall portion 310 may be integrally injection-molded with the housing 300.

[0151] Thus, by integrally injection-molding the wall portion 310 with the housing 300, the manufacturing process of the connector 10 can be simplified and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0152] Thus, the connector 10 according to the embodiment can form a waterproof structure through a simple structure, and the method 1000 for manufacturing the connector 10 can simplify the manufacturing process and reduce the cost.

[0153] Waterproof performance of the connector 10

[0154] Hereinafter, the product waterproof performance of the connector 10 manufactured according to the method 1000 for manufacturing the connector 10 will be described.

[0155] [Table 1]

[0156] Brine deposition Leakage volume Water resistivity test (0.4 bar) Passed 0.0138 cc No water inflow

[0157] Table 1 shows the product waterproof performance of the connector 10 manufactured according to the method 1000 for manufacturing the connector 10 according to the embodiment before the environmental test.

[0158] Referring to Table 1, the connector 10 according to the embodiment has passed the salt water deposition test and shows a leakage amount of 0.0138 cc, and as a result of the water resistivity test, no water inflow is detected.

[0159] The connector 10 manufactured by the manufacturing method 1000 according to the embodiment has been tested in two environments.

[0160] First, an environmental test is performed under high temperature and high humidity conditions.

[0161] The product waterproof performance after the connector 10 has been exposed to an environment of 85 degrees Celsius and 85% humidity for 1000 hours is shown in Table 2 below.

[0162] [Table 2]

[0163] Brine deposition Leakage volume Water resistivity test (0.4 bar) Passed 0.017 cc No water inflow

[0164] Referring to Table 2, the connector 10 according to the embodiment has passed the brine deposition test and shows a leakage amount of 0.017 cc, and as a result of the water resistivity test at 0.4 bar, no water inflow is detected.

[0165] It can be seen that although the leakage amount has increased slightly compared to the performance of the connector 10 before the environmental test, sufficient waterproof performance is maintained.

[0166] Secondly, a thermal shock test has been carried out.

[0167] The product waterproof performance after the operation of exposing the connector 10 to an environment of 125 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes and then exposing the connector 10 to an environment of -40 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes is repeated 1000 cycles is shown in Table 3 below.

[0168] [Table 3]

[0169] Brine deposition Leakage volume Water resistivity test (0.4 bar) Passed 0.038 cc No water inflow

[0170] Referring to Table 3, the connector 10 according to the embodiment has passed the brine deposition test and shows a leakage amount of 0.038 cc, and as a result of the water resistivity test at 0.4 bar, no water inflow is detected.

[0171] It can be seen that although the leakage amount is greater than that after the high-temperature and high-humidity test compared to the performance of the connector 10 before the environmental test and after the high-temperature and high-humidity test, waterproof performance is still maintained.

[0172] In this way, the connector 10 manufactured according to the method 1000 for manufacturing the connector 10 according to the embodiment can have a simplified process and a simple structure, while showing sufficient waterproof performance and maintaining waterproof performance even in high-temperature and high-humidity environments and thermal shocks.

[0173] The connector according to the embodiment and its manufacturing method can form a waterproof structure with a simple structure.

[0174] In the connector according to the embodiment and its manufacturing method, the components of the connector can be firmly coupled to each other.

[0175] The connector according to the embodiment and its manufacturing method can simplify the manufacturing process.

[0176] The connector and its manufacturing method according to the embodiment can reduce the manufacturing cost.

Claims

1. A connector, the connector comprising: At least one conductive connector pin; A pre-molded part, the pre-molded part being penetrated by the connector pin such that end portions of the connector pin respectively protrude from a first surface and a second surface of the pre-molded part; And A housing, the housing surrounding all surfaces of the pre-molded part penetrated by the connector pin to accommodate the pre-molded part in the housing and exposing one of the end portions of the connector pin to the outside of the housing.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The housing directly contacts all surfaces of the pre-molded part penetrated by the connector pin.

3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The housing is molded on the pre-molded part that is penetrated by the connector pin and accommodated in the housing.

4. The connector according to claim 3, wherein One or more edges of the pre-molded part that is penetrated by the connector pin and accommodated in the housing are chamfered or rounded.

5. The connector according to claim 3, wherein, The outer surface of the pre-molded part that is penetrated by the connector pin and accommodated in the housing has a plurality of convex portions.

6. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The connector pin includes at least one protrusion, the at least one protrusion being positioned outside the pre-molded part and inside the housing and protruding in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the connector pin penetrates the pre-molded part.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one protrusion includes a protrusion positioned outside the first surface of the pre-molded part and another protrusion positioned outside the second surface of the pre-molded part.

8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes a wall portion surrounding the exposed one of the end portions of the connector pin.

9. A method of manufacturing a connector, the method of manufacturing a connector comprising the steps of: Injection molding a pre-molded part on at least one conductive connector pin such that the connector pin penetrates the pre-molded part and end portions of the connector pin respectively protrude from a first surface and a second surface of the pre-molded part; And Injection molding a housing surrounding all surfaces of the pre-molded part penetrated by the connector pin to accommodate the pre-molded part in the housing and exposing one of the end portions of the connector pin to the outside of the housing.

10. The method of manufacturing a connector according to claim 9, wherein, The step of injection molding the housing includes molding the housing by inserting and injecting the pre-molded part penetrated by the connector pin.

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