Connector device and electric connector

Abstract

The connector device includes an electrical connector and a mating connector fitted to the electrical connector. The electrical connector includes: a pair of first contacts; a first housing that covers a portion of the periphery of the pair of first contacts about an axis of an axis along a fitting direction of the electrical connector and a mating connector; and a first outer cover. The mating connector is provided with: a pair of second contacts; a second housing covering a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts around the axis; and a second outer cover. The first housing and the second housing surround a contact contact portion where the pair of first contacts and the pair of second contacts are in contact around an axis when viewed from a fitting direction in a fitting state of the electrical connector and the mating connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector device and an electrical connector. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a socket connector that is mounted on a substrate and engages with a plug connector connected to the front end of a cable. The socket connector of Patent Document 1 includes a housing that is connected to the housing of the plug connector in a state of covering a pair of contact members.

[0003] Background Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6965685 Gazette Summary of the Invention

[0006] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0007] There is a demand for simplifying the housing of an electrical connector mounted on a substrate.

[0008] [Technical Means for Solving the Problems]

[0009] A connector device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: an electrical connector mounted on a first substrate; and a mating connector mounted on a second substrate and mating with the electrical connector. The electrical connector includes: a pair of conductive first contacts electrically connected to signal conductors of the first substrate; a conductive first housing electrically connected to a ground conductor of the first substrate and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts around an axis along the mating direction of the electrical connector and the mating connector; and a first outer cover holding the pair of first contacts and the first housing in an insulated state. The mating connector includes: a pair of conductive second contacts electrically connected to signal conductors of the second substrate; a conductive second housing electrically connected to a ground conductor of the second substrate and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts around the axis; and a second outer cover holding the pair of second contacts and the second housing in an insulated state. In a mated state of the electrical connector and the mating connector, the pair of first contacts contact the pair of second contacts, and the first housing contacts the second housing. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing and the second housing surround a contact portion where the pair of first contacts and the pair of second contacts contact each other around the axis.

[0010] In an electrical connector, a first housing axially covers a part of the periphery of a pair of first contacts. Compared with the case where the first housing axially covers the entire periphery of the pair of first contacts, simplification of the first housing can be achieved. In the target connector, a second housing axially covers a part of the periphery of a pair of second contacts. Compared with the case where the second housing axially covers the entire periphery of the pair of second contacts, simplification of the second housing can be achieved. When observed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing and the second housing axially surround the contact portion of the contacts. Thereby, the shielding performance in the mated state can be improved.

[0011] The first housing may include a pair of first side surfaces facing each other and a first connecting surface connecting the pair of first side surfaces. The second housing may include a pair of second side surfaces facing each other and a second connecting surface connecting the pair of second side surfaces. When observed from the mating direction in the mated state, the pair of first side surfaces, the pair of second side surfaces, the first connecting surface, and the second connecting surface may axially surround the contact portion of the contacts. The first housing has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration by the pair of first side surfaces and the first connecting surface. The second housing has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration by the pair of second side surfaces and the second connecting surface. Such configurations of the first housing and the second housing can be easily manufactured, for example, by performing bending processing or the like on a punched metal plate. Thereby, simplification of the first housing and the second housing can be achieved. In addition, when observed from the mating direction in the mated state, the pair of first side surfaces, the pair of second side surfaces, the first connecting surface, and the second connecting surface axially surround the periphery of the contact portion of the contacts. Thereby, the shielding performance in the mated state can be improved.

[0012] The pair of second side surfaces may include a pair of protrusions that protrude away from the second substrate. In the mated state, the pair of protrusions may contact the pair of first side surfaces. The housing contact portion where the pair of protrusions contact the pair of first side surfaces may be closer to the first substrate than the contact portion of the contacts. In the mated state, the pair of protrusions contact the pair of first side surfaces at a position closer to the first substrate than the contact portion of the contacts. By reducing the distance between the second substrate and the first substrate and increasing the length of the pair of protrusions in the direction from the second substrate toward the first substrate, the elasticity of the pair of protrusions can be easily ensured.

[0013] When observed from the mating direction in the mated state, a pair of first contacts can be electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing. Inside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing, the pair of first contacts are in contact with the pair of second contacts. Outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing, the pair of first contacts are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate. That is, a pair of first contacts are formed throughout the inside and outside of the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing. In such a pair of first contacts, by increasing the length from the contact portion with the pair of second contacts to the contact portion with the signal conductors of the first substrate, it is possible to easily ensure the elasticity of the pair of first contacts.

[0014] The electrical connector may include a plurality of first units each including a pair of first contacts and the first housing. The plurality of first units can be arranged along a direction orthogonal to the mating direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts, and along the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts. The target connector may include a plurality of second units each including a pair of second contacts and the second housing. The plurality of second units can be arranged along a direction orthogonal to the mating direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts, and along the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts. In the mated state, the shielding performance of each of the plurality of first units and the plurality of second units can be ensured. Thereby, the interval between the first units and the interval between the second units can be reduced, and thus the high density of the electrical connector and the target connector can be achieved.

[0015] A pair of first contacts may include first connection legs that extend along the first substrate and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate. A pair of second contacts may include second connection legs that extend along the second substrate and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the second substrate. In the mated state, the first connection legs and the second connection legs may extend in directions away from each other. The first connection legs and the second connection legs extend in directions away from each other. By separating the first connection legs and the second connection legs from each other, the influence exerted between the first connection legs and the second connection legs can be suppressed.

[0016] A pair of first sides may face each other with the first connection legs therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts. A pair of second sides may face each other with the second connection legs therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts. In the mated state, a pair of first sides may face each other with the contact portion of the contacts therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts, and a pair of second sides may face each other with the contact portion of the contacts therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts. Thereby, the shielding performance in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts and the pair of second contacts can be improved.

[0017] In the mated state, the first connection surface may not face the second connection leg portion. The second connection surface may not face the first connection leg portion. In the mated state, the first connection surface releases the second connection leg portion, and the second connection surface releases the first connection leg portion. Thereby, the visibility of the first connection leg portion and the second connection leg portion is improved.

[0018] When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, a pair of first contacts may pass between the second connection surface and the first substrate, extend outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing, and be electrically connected to the signal conductor of the first substrate. A pair of first contacts are formed between the second connection surface and the first substrate. That is, a pair of first contacts are formed inside and outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing. In such a pair of first contacts, by making the length from the contact portion with the pair of second contacts to the contact portion with the signal conductor of the first substrate longer, the elasticity of the pair of first contacts can be easily ensured.

[0019] In the mated state, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the mating direction and orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts, the first connection surface and the second connection surface may not face each other. In such a case, the visibility of the pair of first contacts and the pair of second contacts is improved.

[0020] A fitting hole may be formed in the first outer cover, and the fitting hole penetrates through so as to communicate the main surface and the back surface. The main surface faces the object connector when mated with the object connector, and the back surface faces the first substrate. A fitting projection may be formed in the second outer cover. When mated with the electrical connector, the fitting projection projects from the main surface facing the electrical connector with the base end away from the second substrate. In the mated state, the fitting hole and the fitting projection may be fitted. In such a case, the fitting projection and the fitting hole function as guides when the electrical connector is mated with the object connector. As a result, the contact reliability between the first contact and the second contact can be improved.

[0021] An electrical connector according to an aspect of the present invention is mounted on a first substrate and mated with an object connector mounted on a second substrate. The electrical connector includes: a pair of conductive first contacts electrically connected to the signal conductor of the first substrate; a conductive first housing electrically connected to the ground conductor of the first substrate and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts around an axis along the mating direction of the electrical connector and the object connector; and an outer cover holding the pair of first contacts and the first housing in an insulated state. In the mated state with the object connector, a pair of first contacts contact a pair of conductive second contacts of the object connector, and the first housing contacts the conductive second housing of the object connector. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing and the second housing surround the contact portion where the pair of first contacts and the pair of second contacts contact around the axis.

[0022] In an electrical connector, a first housing axially covers a part of the periphery of a pair of first contacts. Simplification of the first housing can be achieved as compared with the case where the first housing axially covers the entire periphery of the pair of first contacts. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state with a mating connector, the first housing and the second housing axially surround a contact portion. Thereby, shielding performance in the mated state can be improved.

[0023] [Advantages of the Invention]

[0024] According to the present invention, a connector device and an electrical connector capable of achieving simplification of a housing can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a connector device.

[0026] Figure 2 is a top view of an electrical connector.

[0027] Figure 3 In (a) is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts. Figure 3 In (b) is a top view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts. Figure 3 In (c) is a side view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts. Figure 3 In (d) is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts.

[0028] Figure 4 In (a) is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first housing. Figure 4 In (b) is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first housing. Figure 4 In (c) is a side view illustrating the appearance of the first housing. Figure 4 In (d) is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the first housing.

[0029] Figure 5 In (a) is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first unit. Figure 5 In (b) is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first unit. Figure 5 In (c) is a side view illustrating the appearance of the first unit. Figure 5 In (d) is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the first unit.

[0030] Figure 6 is an enlarged top view magnifying a part of the appearance of the electrical connector.

[0031] Figure 7 is an enlarged bottom view magnifying a part of the appearance of the electrical connector.

[0032] Figure 8 is a side view illustrating the connection based on the first side housing.

[0033] Figure 9 It is a top view of the object connector.

[0034] Figure 10 In (a), it is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contacts. Figure 10 In (b), it is a top view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contacts. Figure 10 In (c), it is a side view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contacts. Figure 10 In (d), it is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contacts.

[0035] Figure 11 In (a), it is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the second housing. Figure 11 In (b), it is a top view illustrating the appearance of the second housing. Figure 11 In (c), it is a side view illustrating the appearance of the second housing. Figure 11 In (d), it is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the second housing.

[0036] Figure 12 In (a), it is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the second unit. Figure 12 In (b), it is a top view illustrating the appearance of the second unit. Figure 12 In (c), it is a side view illustrating the appearance of the second unit. Figure 12 In (d), it is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the second unit.

[0037] Figure 13 It is an enlarged top view magnifying a part of the appearance of the object connector.

[0038] Figure 14 It is an enlarged bottom view magnifying a part of the appearance of the object connector.

[0039] Figure 15 It is a side view illustrating the connection based on the second side housing.

[0040] Figure 16 It is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first unit and the second unit in the engaged state.

[0041] Figure 17 It is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first unit and the second unit in the engaged state.

[0042] Figure 18 It represents Figure 17 a cross-sectional view along line xviii-xviii of

[0043] Figure 19 It represents Figure 17 a cross-sectional view along line xix-xix of

[0044] Figure 20 It is a perspective view of the appearance of a connector device illustrating a variation example.

[0045] Figure 21 In (a) thereof, it is a perspective view of the appearance of the first unit illustrating a variation example. Figure 21 In (b) thereof, it is a top view of the appearance of the first unit illustrating a variation example. Figure 21 In (c) thereof, it is a side view of the appearance of the first unit illustrating a variation example.

[0046] Figure 21 In (d) thereof, it is a bottom view of the appearance of the first unit illustrating a variation example. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0047] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same reference numerals are given to the same elements or elements having the same function, and redundant description is omitted.

[0048] [Connector Device]

[0049] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the connector device 1 of the present invention. The connector device 1 is, for example, a device for connecting printed substrates in an electronic device to each other. The connector device 1 includes: an electrical connector 2 mounted on a first substrate 200 (refer to Figure 2 ), and a mating connector 3 mounted on a second substrate 300 (refer to Figure 9 ) and mating with the electrical connector 2. In the connector device 1, the electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are mated in the Z-axis direction. By mating the electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3, the first substrate 200 and the second substrate 300 are electrically connected. Hereinafter, the Z-axis direction will be referred to as the mating direction. When viewed from the mating direction, both the electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3 are approximately rectangular. Hereinafter, when viewed from the mating direction, the short side direction of the rectangular electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3 will be referred to as the X-axis direction, and the long side direction will be referred to as the Y-axis direction. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are orthogonal to each other.

[0050] [Electrical Connector]

[0051] Figure 2It is a top view of the electrical connector 2. The electrical connector 2 is, for example, a socket connector and is mounted on the first substrate 200. The first substrate 200 is, for example, a printed substrate. A plurality of signal conductors (conductors forming part of the signal circuit) and a plurality of ground conductors (conductors forming part of the ground circuit) are formed on the first substrate 200, neither of which is shown. The electrical connector 2 includes: a pair of first contacts 21, a first housing 22, a first cover 23, and a pair of first side housings 24. The electrical connector 2 includes a plurality of first units 20 each including a pair of first contacts 21 and the first housing 22.

[0052] The pair of first contacts 21 are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. The pair of first contacts 21 transmit a plurality of differential signals. The plurality of differential signals are, for example, high-speed signals and low-speed signals. The pair of first contacts 21 are arranged and disposed separately from each other in the X-axis direction. Hereinafter, the X-axis direction is also referred to as the arrangement direction.

[0053] The first housing 22 is formed of a conductive material, such as a metal plate, and is electrically connected to the ground conductors of the first substrate 200. The first housing 22 covers a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis L, and the axis L is along the fitting direction. For example, the first housing 22 covers the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 from two directions in the X-axis direction and one direction in the Y-axis direction. In other words, the first housing 22 is not cylindrical.

[0054] The first cover 23 is formed of an insulating material, such as resin, and holds the pair of first contacts 21 and the first housing 22 in an insulated state. The first cover 23 holds the plurality of first units 20. The first cover 23 includes a plurality of blocks 230, and the plurality of blocks 230 hold the plurality of first units 20 along the X-axis direction respectively and are arranged and disposed along the Y-axis direction.

[0055] The plurality of first units 20 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21, and are arranged along the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21. That is, the plurality of first units 20 are arranged along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The number of the plurality of first units 20 is not limited. For example, the number of the plurality of first units 20 can be 60. In this case, 10 first units 20 arranged along the X-axis direction can be arranged in 6 groups along the Y-axis direction. The interval D1 between adjacent plurality of first units 20 in the X-axis direction can be smaller than the interval D2 between adjacent plurality of first units 20 in the Y-axis direction.

[0056] A pair of first side housings 24 are formed of a conductive material, such as a metal plate, and are connecting members that connect a plurality of blocks 230 of the first outer cover 23 along the Y-axis direction. The pair of first side housings 24 are disposed at both ends in the X-axis direction of the plurality of blocks 230. The pair of first side housings 24 connect the plurality of blocks 230 by engaging with the plurality of blocks 230 respectively.

[0057] Figure 3 (a) in is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts 21. Figure 3 (b) in is a top view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts 21. Figure 3 (c) in is a side view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts 21. Figure 3 (d) in is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of a pair of first contacts 21.

[0058] As Figure 3 shown in (b) and (d) in, when viewed from the fitting direction, a pair of first contacts 21 extend along the Y-axis direction. As Figure 3 shown in (c) in, when viewed from the arrangement direction, a pair of first contacts 21 have an approximately S-shaped configuration. A pair of first contacts 21 are formed, for example, by performing bending processing or the like on a punched metal plate. A pair of first contacts 21 include a first contact portion 211, a first connection leg portion 212, and a first connecting portion 213.

[0059] The first contact portion 211 protrudes along the Z-axis direction so as to be separated from the first substrate 200. The first connection leg portion 212 extends along the first substrate 200 and is electrically connected to a signal conductor of the first substrate 200. The first connecting portion 213 connects the first contact portion 211 and the first connection leg portion 212. The first connecting portion 213 is bent so as to be separated from the first substrate 200 and then approach the first substrate 200, thereby being formed in a crankshaft shape.

[0060] Figure 4 (a) in is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first housing 22. Figure 4 (b) in is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first housing 22. Figure 4 (c) in is a side view illustrating the appearance of the first housing 22. Figure 4 (d) in is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the first housing 22.

[0061] As Figure 4As shown in (b) and (d), when viewed from the fitting direction, the first housing 22 has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration. The first housing 22 is formed, for example, by subjecting a punched metal plate to bending processing or the like. The first housing 22 includes a pair of first side surfaces 221 facing each other and a first connection surface 222 connecting the pair of first side surfaces 221. The first housing 22 does not have a surface facing the first connection surface 222.

[0062] As Figure 4 shown in (a), the pair of first side surfaces 221 have a flat plate shape extending in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. The pair of first side surfaces 221 include a ground connection portion 221a facing the first substrate 200 and formed along the Y-axis direction. The ground connection portion 221a is electrically connected to the ground conductor of the first substrate 200.

[0063] The first connection surface 222 has a flat plate shape extending in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. The first connection surface 222 connects the pair of first side surfaces 221 at both ends in the X-axis direction. The first connection surface 222 includes a ground connection portion 222a facing the first substrate 200 and formed along the X-axis direction. The ground connection portion 222a is electrically connected to the ground conductor of the first substrate 200.

[0064] Figure 5 (a) is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20. Figure 5 (b) is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20. Figure 5 (c) is a side view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20. Figure 5 (d) is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20.

[0065] The pair of first side surfaces 221 face each other with the pair of first contacts 21 therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21. The pair of first side surfaces 221 are arranged to cover the pair of first contacts 21 in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21. As Figure 5 shown in (b), the overall length of the pair of first side surfaces 221 in the Y-axis direction is longer than the overall length of the pair of first contacts 21 in the Y-axis direction. As Figure 5 shown in (d), the overall length of the ground connection portion 221a in the Y-axis direction is longer than the overall length of the pair of first contacts 21 in the Y-axis direction.

[0066] The first connection surface 222 faces the first contact portion 211 of the pair of first contacts 21 in the Y-axis direction. The first connection surface 222 is arranged to cover the first contact portion 211 of the pair of first contacts 21 in the Y-axis direction. As Figure 5 shown in (d), the overall length of the ground connection portion 222a in the X-axis direction is longer than the distance between the arrangements of the pair of first contacts 21 in the X-axis direction.

[0067] Refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 to describe the first outer cover 23. Figure 6 It is an enlarged top view showing a part of the appearance of the electrical connector 2 in an enlarged manner. Figure 7 It is an enlarged bottom view showing a part of the appearance of the electrical connector 2 in an enlarged manner. When viewed from the fitting direction, the first outer cover 23 has an approximately rectangular shape. Each block 230 of the first outer cover 23 has a main surface 230a and a back surface 230b that extend flatly along the first substrate 200.

[0068] The main surface 230a is the surface that faces the mating connector 3 when mating with the mating connector 3. The back surface 230b is the surface that faces the first substrate 200. In each block 230, a pair of inner grooves 231, windows 232, a pair of outer grooves 233, connection grooves 234, fitting holes 235, and engaging grooves 236 are formed corresponding to a plurality of first units 20 respectively, and penetrate between the main surface 230a and the back surface 230b.

[0069] The pair of inner grooves 231 are grooves formed to accommodate a pair of first contacts 21. The window 232 is a hole that exposes the first connection leg 212 of the first contact 21 when viewed from the fitting direction. The pair of outer grooves 233 are grooves formed on both sides of the pair of inner grooves 231 in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21. The pair of outer grooves 233 accommodate a pair of first side surfaces 221 of the first housing 22. The connection groove 234 is a groove that connects the pair of outer grooves 233. The connection groove 234 accommodates the first connection surface 222 of the first housing 22. The fitting hole 235 engages with a fitting protrusion 334 described later when the electrical connector 2 is mated with the mating connector 3. The fitting hole 235 can be used for positioning between the blocks 230 in the following way: when manufacturing the electrical connector 2 by arranging a plurality of blocks 230 in the Y-axis direction, by fitting the protrusion of a jig (not shown) on which the block 230 is placed into the fitting hole 235, positioning between the blocks 230 can be performed. The engaging groove 236 is a groove that accommodates the first side housing 24. One or more engaging grooves 236 can be provided in each block 230. For example, a plurality of engaging grooves 236 are provided at specified intervals in the Y-axis direction.

[0070] Figure 8It is a side view showing the connection based on the first side housing 24. The first side housing 24 has a comb-like shape. The first side housing 24 is formed of, for example, a metal plate. The first side housing 24 includes a connection plate 241 and a protrusion 242. The connection plate 241 has an elongated plate-like shape and extends flatly in the Y-axis direction. The protrusion 242 protrudes toward the engagement grooves 236 of the plurality of blocks 230 in the fitting direction. The protrusion 242 is provided corresponding to the number of the engagement grooves 236. For example, a plurality of protrusions 242 are provided at a specified interval in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of protrusions 242 are respectively received in the plurality of engagement grooves 236 by press-fitting on each axis K1 along the fitting direction.

[0071] [Object Connector]

[0072] Figure 9 It is a top view of the object connector 3. Figure 9 It is shown in a state of being upside down along the fitting direction. That is, Figure 9 It corresponds to a top view when observing from the electrical connector 2 along the fitting direction. The object connector 3 is, for example, a plug connector and is mounted on the second substrate 300. The second substrate 300 is, for example, a printed substrate. A plurality of signal conductors and a plurality of ground conductors are formed on the second substrate 300, neither of which is shown. The object connector 3 includes: a pair of second contacts 31, a second housing 32, a second cover 33, and a pair of second side housings 34. The object connector 3 includes a plurality of second units 30 each including a pair of second contacts 31 and the second housing 32.

[0073] The pair of second contacts 31 are formed of a conductive material, for example, a metal plate, and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the second substrate 300. The pair of second contacts 31 transmit a variety of differential signals. The variety of differential signals are, for example, high-speed signals and low-speed signals. The pair of second contacts 31 are arranged and configured to be separated from each other in the X-axis direction.

[0074] The second housing 32 is formed of a conductive material, for example, a metal plate, and is electrically connected to the ground conductors of the second substrate 300. The second housing 32 covers a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts 31 around the axis L along the fitting direction. For example, the second housing 32 covers the periphery of the pair of second contacts 31 from two directions in the X-axis direction and one direction in the Y-axis direction. In other words, the second housing 32 is not cylindrical.

[0075] The second cover 33 is formed of an insulating material, for example, resin, and holds the pair of second contacts 31 and the second housing 32 in an insulated state. The second cover 33 holds the plurality of second units 30. The second cover 33 includes a plurality of blocks 330. The plurality of blocks 330 respectively hold the plurality of second units 30 along the X-axis direction and are arranged and configured along the Y-axis direction. When observed from the fitting direction, each block 330 has an approximately concave shape.

[0076] A plurality of second units 30 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31, and are arranged along the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31. That is, the plurality of second units 30 are arranged along the Y-axis direction and the X-axis direction. The number of the plurality of second units 30 is not limited. For example, the number of the plurality of second units 30 can be 60. In this case, 10 second units 30 arranged along the X-axis direction can be arranged in 6 groups along the Y-axis direction. The interval D3 between adjacent second units 30 in the X-axis direction can be smaller than the interval D4 between adjacent second units 30 in the Y-axis direction.

[0077] A pair of second side cases 34 are formed of a conductive material, such as a metal plate, and are connecting members that connect a plurality of blocks 330 of the second outer cover 33 along the Y-axis direction. The pair of second side cases 34 are arranged at both ends in the X-axis direction of the plurality of blocks 330. The pair of second side cases 34 connect the plurality of blocks 330 by engaging with the plurality of blocks 330 respectively.

[0078] Figure 10 (a) in is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contact points 31. Figure 10 (b) in is a top view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contact points 31. Figure 10 (c) in is a side view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contact points 31. Figure 10 (d) in is a bottom view illustrating the appearance of a pair of second contact points 31.

[0079] As Figure 10 As shown in (c) in, when viewed from the arrangement direction, a pair of second contact points 31 extend along the Z-axis direction. When viewed from the arrangement direction, a pair of second contact points 31 have an approximately S-shaped shape. A pair of second contact points 31 are formed, for example, by performing bending processing or the like on a punched metal plate. A pair of second contact points 31 include a second contact portion 311, a second connection leg portion 312, and a second connection portion 313.

[0080] The second contact portion 311 has a flat plate shape extending along the Z-axis direction. The second connection leg portion 312 extends along the second substrate 300 and is electrically connected to the signal conductor of the second substrate 300. The second connection portion 313 extends along the Z-axis direction and connects the second contact portion 311 and the second connection leg portion 312.

[0081] Figure 11 (a) in is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the second case 32. Figure 11 (b) in is a top view illustrating the appearance of the second case 32. Figure 11 (c) in is a side view illustrating the appearance of the second case 32. Figure 11In (d), it is a bottom view showing the appearance of the second housing 32.

[0082] As Figure 11 As shown in (b) and (d) in [reference], when viewed from the fitting direction, the second housing 32 has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration. The second housing 32 is formed, for example, by subjecting a punched metal plate to bending processing or the like. The second housing 32 includes a pair of second side surfaces 321 facing each other and a second connecting surface 322 connecting the pair of second side surfaces 321. The second housing 32 does not have a surface facing the second connecting surface 322.

[0083] As Figure 11 As shown in (a) in [reference], the pair of second side surfaces 321 have a flat plate shape extending in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. The pair of second side surfaces 321 include a ground connection portion 321a formed along the Y-axis direction and facing the second substrate 300. The ground connection portion 321a is electrically connected to the ground conductor of the second substrate 300. The pair of second side surfaces 321 include a pair of protruding portions 323 protruding in a manner away from the second substrate 300.

[0084] The pair of protruding portions 323 function as so-called leaf springs. The pair of protruding portions 323 are bent so that as they move away from the second substrate 300 in the fitting direction, they separate from each other in the X-axis direction. The pair of protruding portions 323 each include a base portion 323a, a contact portion 323b, and a front end portion 323c. The base portion 323a, the contact portion 323b, and the front end portion 323c are sequentially arranged in a manner away from the second substrate 300. The base portions 323a are inclined so as to be separated from each other. The contact portions 323b are the parts farthest from each other. The front end portions 323c are inclined so as to approach each other. The protruding portions 323 are formed such that the width gradually becomes wider from the front end portion 323c toward the base portion 323a. That is, the protruding portions 323 become wider as they approach the first substrate 200.

[0085] The second connecting surface 322 has a flat plate shape extending in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. The second connecting surface 322 connects the pair of second side surfaces 321 at both ends in the X-axis direction. The second connecting surface 322 includes a ground connection portion 322a formed along the X-axis direction and facing the second substrate 300. The ground connection portion 322a is electrically connected to the ground conductor of the second substrate 300.

[0086] Figure 12 In (a), it is a perspective view showing the appearance of the second unit 30. Figure 12 In (b), it is a top view showing the appearance of the second unit 30. Figure 12 In (c), it is a side view showing the appearance of the second unit 30. Figure 12 In (d), it is a bottom view showing the appearance of the second unit 30.

[0087] A pair of second side surfaces 321 face each other across a pair of second contact points 31 in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31. The pair of second side surfaces 321 are arranged to cover the pair of second contact points 31 in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31. As shown in (b) of Figure 12 , the overall length of the pair of second side surfaces 321 in the Y-axis direction is longer than the overall length of the pair of second contact points 31 in the Y-axis direction. The overall length of the ground connection portion 321a in the Y-axis direction is longer than the overall length of the second connection leg portion 312 in the Y-axis direction.

[0088] The protruding portion 323 faces the second contact portion 311 of the pair of second contact points 31 in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31. The protruding portion 323 is arranged to cover the second contact portion 311 in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points. As shown in (c) of Figure 12 , the overall length of the pair of second side surfaces 321 in the Z-axis direction is longer than the overall length of the pair of second contact points 31 in the Z-axis direction.

[0089] Refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 for the description of the second housing 33. Figure 13 is an enlarged top view showing a part of the appearance of the target connector 3. Figure 14 is an enlarged bottom view showing a part of the appearance of the target connector 3. When viewed from the fitting direction, the second housing 33 has an approximately rectangular shape. Each block 330 of the second housing 33 has a main surface 330a and a back surface 330b that extend flatly along the second substrate 300.

[0090] The main surface 330a is the surface that faces the electrical connector 2 when fitted with the electrical connector 2. The back surface 330b is the surface that faces the second substrate 300. In each block 330, corresponding to a plurality of second units 30 respectively, a columnar portion 331 and an engaging groove 335 are formed so as to communicate the main surface 330a and the back surface 330b. A hole 332 that penetrates in a manner to communicate the main surface 330a and the back surface 330b is formed in the columnar portion 331. In addition, a pair of side surfaces 333 are provided in the columnar portion 331 so as to be orthogonal to the X-axis direction. Each block 330 has engaging protrusions 334 at both ends in the X-axis direction, and the engaging protrusions 334 protrude from the main surface 330a and away from the second substrate 300.

[0091] The columnar portion 331 is formed in a prismatic shape, such as by insert molding, along the arrangement of the pair of second contacts 31. The columnar portion 331 houses the second connecting portions 313 of the pair of second contacts 31, and exposes the second connecting foot portions 312 of the pair of second contacts 31 from the back surface 330b. The hole 332 is a hole for housing a part of the second housing 32. Specifically, the hole 332 houses a part of the second connecting surface 322, and exposes the ground connection portion 322a from the back surface 330b. The pair of side surfaces 333 are in contact with the pair of second side surfaces 321 of the second housing 32. The fitting protrusion 334 has a columnar shape. The fitting protrusion 334 has a curved surface 334a connecting the front end and the side surface. The length from the main surface 330a to the front end of the fitting protrusion 334 may be longer than the length from the main surface 330a to the front end (front end portion 323c) of the second unit 30. In other words, the fitting protrusion 334 may protrude more than the second unit 30. When the fitting protrusion 334 is fitted with the electrical connector 2, it is fitted with the fitting hole 235. That is, the fitting protrusion 334 and the fitting hole 235 function as guides when the electrical connector 2 is fitted with the target connector 3. The curved surface 334a of the fitting protrusion 334 can slide when contacting the main surface 230a near the fitting hole 235 of the first housing 23, and align the positions of the fitting protrusion 334 and the fitting hole 235. The engaging groove 335 is a groove for housing the second side housing 34. One or more engaging grooves 335 can be provided in each block 330. For example, a plurality of engaging grooves 335 are provided at specified intervals in the Y-axis direction.

[0092] Figure 15 is an example of a side view showing the connection based on the second side housing 34. The second side housing 34 has a comb shape. The second side housing 34 is formed of, for example, a metal plate. The second side housing 34 includes a connecting plate 341 and a protruding portion 342. The connecting plate 341 has an elongated plate shape and extends in a planar manner along the Y-axis direction. The protruding portion 342 protrudes toward the engaging grooves 335 of the plurality of blocks 330 in the fitting direction. The protruding portion 342 is provided corresponding to the number of the engaging grooves 335. For example, a plurality of protruding portions 342 are provided at specified intervals in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of protruding portions 342 are respectively housed in the plurality of engaging grooves 236 by press-fitting on each axis K2 along the fitting direction.

[0093] [Fitting state]

[0094] Refer to Figures 16 - 19 Details of the fitting state (hereinafter referred to as "fitting state") of the electrical connector 2 and the target connector 3 will be described. Figure 16 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20 and the second unit 30 in the fitting state. Figure 17 is a top view illustrating the appearance of the first unit 20 and the second unit 30 in the fitting state. Figure 18 is shown along Figure 17A cross-sectional view of the cross-section along the xviii-xviii line. Figure 19 It is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-section along the Figure 17 xix-xix line. In Figures 16 - 19 the illustration of the first outer cover 23, the second outer cover 33, the first substrate 200, and the second substrate 300 is omitted.

[0095] As Figure 16 shown, in the fitted state, the first connection surface 222 does not face the second connection leg portion 312. In other words, the first connection surface 222 releases the second connection leg portion 312. The second connection surface 322 does not face the first connection leg portion 212. In other words, the second connection surface 322 releases the first connection leg portion 212. In the fitted state, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points 21, the first connection surface 222 and the second connection surface 322 do not face each other. That is, in the Y-axis direction, the first connection surface 222 and the second connection surface 322 do not face each other. In the fitted state, the first connection surface 222 does not contact the second housing 32.

[0096] As Figure 17 shown, when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, a region R surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 is formed. The first connection surface 222 of the first housing 22 and the second connection surface 322 of the second housing 32 are fitted in such a way that they face each other when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, thereby forming the region R. When viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first contact points 21 are outside the region R surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. More specifically, when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first contact points 21 pass between the second connection surface 322 and the first substrate 200 and extend outside the region R surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. When viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of second contact points 31 are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the second substrate 300 in the region R.

[0097] When viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first contact points 21 and the pair of second contact points 31 are in contact in the region R. As Figure 18 shown, in the fitted state, the pair of first contact points 21 and the pair of second contact points 31 are in contact to form a contact portion C. The contact portion C is the contact portion between the first contact portion 211 of the pair of first contact points 21 and the second contact portion 311 of the pair of second contact points 31. In the fitted state, the first contact portion 211 does not face the second connection surface 322 with the second contact portion 311 interposed therebetween.

[0098] The contact portion between the first connecting leg portion 212 and the first substrate 200 is soldered. The distance D5 between the first substrate 200 and the contact portion of the contact point C can be smaller than the distance D6 between the contact portion between the first connecting leg portion 212 and the first substrate 200 and the contact portion of the contact point C. Thereby, it is possible to prevent so-called solder wicking, that is, the solder welded between the first connecting leg portion 212 and the first substrate 200 from reaching the contact portion of the contact point C.

[0099] Return Figure 17 , when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 surround the contact portion C where the pair of first contact points 21 and the pair of second contact points 31 are in contact with each other about the axis L. More specifically, when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first side surfaces 221, the pair of second side surfaces 321, the first connecting surface 222, and the second connecting surface 322 surround the contact portion C about the axis L. In other words, when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the contact portion C is formed in the region R surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32.

[0100] The pair of first side surfaces 221 face each other with the first connecting leg portion 212 therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points 21. The pair of second side surfaces 321 face each other with the second connecting leg portion 312 therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31. In the fitted state, the pair of first side surfaces 221 face each other with the contact portion C therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points 21, and the pair of second side surfaces 321 face each other with the contact portion C therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points 31.

[0101] In the fitted state, the first connecting leg portion 212 and the second connecting leg portion 312 extend in directions away from each other. For example, the first connecting leg portion 212 extends in the positive direction of the Y axis, and the second connecting leg portion 312 extends in the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0102] As Figure 19 shown, in the fitted state, the first housing 22 contacts with the second housing 32 interposed therebetween, forming a housing contact portion S. The housing contact portion S is the contact portion between the pair of first side surfaces 221 of the first housing 22 and the pair of second side surfaces 321 of the second housing 32. More specifically, the housing contact portion S is the contact portion between the pair of first side surfaces 221 and the pair of protruding portions 323 of the pair of second side surfaces 321. The housing contact portion S is closer to the first substrate 200 than the contact portion C.

[0103] A pair of protrusions 323 are in contact with a pair of first side surfaces 221 through elastic deformation. During fitting, the front end portions 323c of the pair of protrusions 323 come into contact with the first housing 22 and slide as they tilt, thereby functioning as a guide for position alignment. The contact portions 323b of the pair of protrusions 323 are in contact with the pair of first side surfaces 221 in a pressing manner.

[0104] [Summary]

[0105] The above example includes the following components.

[0106] (1) A connector device 1 includes an electrical connector 2 mounted on a first substrate 200 and a mating connector 3 mounted on a second substrate 300 and mating with the electrical connector 2. The electrical connector 2 includes: a pair of conductive first contacts 21 electrically connected to signal conductors of the first substrate 200; a conductive first housing 22 electrically connected to a ground conductor of the first substrate 200 and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around an axis L, the axis L being along the mating direction of the electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3; and a first outer cover 23 holding the pair of first contacts 21 and the first housing 22 in an insulated state. The mating connector 3 includes: a pair of conductive second contacts 31 electrically connected to signal conductors of the second substrate 300; a conductive second housing 32 electrically connected to a ground conductor of the second substrate 300 and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts 31 around the axis; and a second outer cover 33 holding the pair of second contacts 31 and the second housing 32 in an insulated state. In the mated state of the electrical connector 2 and the mating connector 3, the pair of first contacts 21 are in contact with the pair of second contacts 31, and the first housing 22 is in contact with the second housing 32. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 surround the contact portion C where the pair of first contacts 21 and the pair of second contacts 31 are in contact around the axis.

[0107] In the electrical connector 2, the first housing 22 covers a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis. Compared with the case where the first housing 22 covers the entire periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis, simplification of the first housing 22 can be achieved. In the mating connector 3, the second housing 32 covers a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts 31 around the axis. Compared with the case where the second housing 32 covers the entire periphery of the pair of second contacts 31 around the axis, simplification of the second housing 32 can be achieved. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 surround the contact portion C around the axis. Thereby, the shielding performance in the mated state can be improved.

[0108] (2) The connector device 1 according to (1), wherein the first housing 22 has a pair of first side surfaces 221 facing each other and a first connecting surface 222 connecting the pair of first side surfaces 221, the second housing 32 has a pair of second side surfaces 321 facing each other and a second connecting surface 322 connecting the pair of second side surfaces 321, and when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first side surfaces 221, the pair of second side surfaces 321, the first connecting surface 222, and the second connecting surface 322 surround the contact portion C of the contact point around an axis. The first housing 22 has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration by means of the pair of first side surfaces 221 and the first connecting surface 222. The second housing 32 has a so-called U-shaped or H-shaped configuration by means of the pair of second side surfaces 321 and the second connecting surface 322. Such configurations of the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 can be easily manufactured, for example, by performing bending processing or the like on a punched metal plate. Thereby, simplification of the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 can be achieved. In addition, when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, the pair of first side surfaces 221, the pair of second side surfaces 321, the first connecting surface 222, and the second connecting surface 322 surround the periphery of the contact portion C of the contact point around an axis. Thereby, the shielding performance in the fitted state can be improved.

[0109] (3) The connector device 1 according to (2), wherein the pair of second side surfaces 321 has a pair of protrusions 323 that protrude away from the second substrate 300, and in the fitted state, the pair of protrusions 323 are in contact with the pair of first side surfaces 221, and the housing contact portion S where the pair of protrusions 323 are in contact with the pair of first side surfaces 221 is closer to the first substrate 200 than the contact portion C of the contact point. In the fitted state, the pair of protrusions 323 are in contact with the pair of first side surfaces 221 at a position closer to the first substrate 200 than the contact portion C of the contact point. By reducing the distance between the second substrate 300 and the first substrate 200 and increasing the length of the pair of protrusions 323 in the direction from the second substrate 300 toward the first substrate 200, the elasticity of the pair of protrusions 323 can be easily ensured.

[0110] (4) The connector device 1 according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein when viewed from the fitting direction in the fitted state, a pair of first contacts 21 are outside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. Inside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32, the pair of first contacts 21 are in contact with a pair of second contacts 31. Outside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32, the pair of first contacts 21 are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. That is, a pair of first contacts 21 are formed both inside and outside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32. In such a pair of first contacts 21, by making the length from the contact portion with the pair of second contacts 31 to the contact portion with the signal conductors of the first substrate 200 longer, it is possible to easily ensure the elasticity of the pair of first contacts 21.

[0111] (5) The connector device 1 according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the electrical connector 2 includes a plurality of first units 20 each including a pair of first contacts 21 and the first housing 22, and the plurality of first units 20 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21, and are arranged along the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21. The target connector 3 includes a plurality of second units 30 each including a pair of second contacts 31 and the second housing 32, and the plurality of second units 30 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts 31, and are arranged along the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts 31. In the fitted state, the shielding performance of each of the plurality of first units 20 and the plurality of second units 30 can be ensured. As a result, the intervals D1 and D2 between the first units 20 and the intervals D3 and D4 between the second units 30 can be made smaller, and thus high density of the electrical connector 2 and the target connector 3 can be achieved.

[0112] (6) The connector device 1 according to (2) or (3), wherein the pair of first contacts 21 include first connection legs 212 that extend along the first substrate 200 and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200, and the pair of second contacts 31 include second connection legs 312 that extend along the second substrate 300 and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the second substrate 300. In the fitted state, the first connection legs 212 and the second connection legs 312 extend in directions away from each other. The first connection legs 212 and the second connection legs 312 extend in directions away from each other. By separating the first connection legs 212 and the second connection legs 312 from each other, the influence exerted by the first connection legs 212 and the second connection legs 312 on each other can be suppressed.

[0113] (7) The connector device 1 according to (6), wherein a pair of first side surfaces 221 face each other in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21 with the first connection leg portion 212 therebetween, and a pair of second side surfaces 321 face each other in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts 31 with the second connection leg portion 312 therebetween. In the mated state, the pair of first side surfaces 221 face each other in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21 with the contact portion C therebetween, and the pair of second side surfaces 321 face each other in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contacts 31 with the contact portion C therebetween. Thereby, the shielding performance of the pair of first contacts 21 and the pair of second contacts 31 in the arrangement direction can be improved.

[0114] (8) The connector device 1 according to (6) or (7), wherein in the mated state, the first joint surface 222 does not face the second connection leg portion 312, and the second joint surface 322 does not face the first connection leg portion 212. In the mated state, the first joint surface 222 releases the second connection leg portion 312, and the second joint surface 322 releases the first connection leg portion 212. Thereby, the visibility of the first connection leg portion 212 and the second connection leg portion 312 is improved.

[0115] (9) The connector device 1 according to (2) or (3), wherein when viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the pair of first contacts 21 pass through between the second joint surface 322 and the first substrate 200 and extend outside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32, and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200. The pair of first contacts 21 are formed by passing through between the second joint surface 322 and the first substrate 200. That is, the pair of first contacts 21 are formed inside and outside the region surrounded by the first housing 22 and the second housing 32. In such a pair of first contacts 21, by making the length from the contact portion with the pair of second contacts 31 to the contact portion with the signal conductors of the first substrate 200 longer, the elasticity of the pair of first contacts 21 can be easily ensured.

[0116] (10) The connector device 1 according to (2) or (3), wherein when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the mating direction and orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts 21 in the mated state, the first joint surface 222 and the second joint surface 322 do not face each other. In such a case, the visibility of the pair of first contacts 21 and the pair of second contacts 31 is improved.

[0117] (11) The connector device 1 according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein a fitting hole 235 is formed in the first outer cover 23, the fitting hole 235 penetrates in a manner that communicates the main surface 230a and the back surface 230b, the main surface 230a faces the object connector 3 when engaging with the object connector 3, the back surface 230b faces the first substrate 200, a fitting projection 334 is formed in the second outer cover 33, when engaging with the electrical connector 2, the fitting projection 334 projects away from the second substrate 300 with the main surface 330a facing the electrical connector 2 as the base end, in the engaged state, the fitting hole 235 engages with the fitting projection 334. In this case, the fitting projection 334 and the fitting hole 235 function as guides when the electrical connector 2 engages with the object connector 3. As a result, the reliability of the contact between the first contact 21 and the second contact 31 can be improved.

[0118] (12) An electrical connector 2 is mounted on the first substrate 200 and engages with an object connector 3 mounted on the second substrate 300. The electrical connector 2 includes: a pair of first contacts 21 electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate 200; a first housing 22 electrically connected to the ground conductors of the first substrate 200 and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis L, the axis L being along the engagement direction of the electrical connector 2 and the object connector 3; and an outer cover (the first outer cover 23) that holds the pair of first contacts 21 and the first housing 22 in an insulated state. In the engaged state with the object connector 3, the pair of first contacts 21 contact the pair of second contacts 31 of the object connector 3, and the first housing 22 contacts the second housing 32 of the object connector 3. When viewed from the engagement direction in the engaged state, the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 surround the contact portion C where the pair of first contacts 21 contact the pair of second contacts 31 around the axis.

[0119] In the electrical connector 2, the first housing 22 covers a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis. Compared with the case where the first housing 22 covers the entire periphery of the pair of first contacts 21 around the axis, simplification of the first housing 22 can be achieved. When viewed from the engagement direction in the engaged state with the object connector 3, the first housing 22 and the second housing 32 surround the contact portion C around the axis. Thereby, the shielding performance in the engaged state can be improved.

[0120] [Variation example]

[0121] The embodiments have been described above, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist thereof.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the electrical connector 2 is a socket connector has been described, but the electrical connector 2 may also be a plug connector. In such a case, the mating connector 3 may be a socket connector. In such a case, simplification of the housing can also be achieved by the connector device 1, the electrical connector 2, and the mating connector 3 of the present invention.

[0123] In the above-described embodiment, the plurality of blocks 230 and the plurality of blocks 330 are arranged in the same orientation, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of blocks 230 and the plurality of blocks 330 may be arranged in different orientations. The plurality of blocks 230 and the plurality of blocks 330 may also include blocks having different configurations. For example, the plurality of blocks 230 may hold a plurality of first contacts 21 instead of holding the first housing 22. The plurality of blocks 330 may hold a plurality of second contacts 31 instead of holding the second housing 32.

[0124] Figure 20 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of a connector device 1A which is an example of a modified example. The connector device 1A is different from the connector device 1 in that it includes an electrical connector 2A and a mating connector 3A. Hereinafter, the differences between the connector device 1A and the connector device 1 will be described. The electrical connector 2A includes a first frame 24A instead of the first side housing 24. The mating connector 3A includes a second frame 34A instead of the second side housing 34.

[0125] The first frame 24A is a connecting member that connects the plurality of blocks 230 of the first outer cover 23 along the Y-axis direction. The first frame 24A has a frame shape surrounding the plurality of blocks 230 in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The first frame 24A connects the plurality of blocks 230 by engaging with each of the plurality of blocks 230. The first frame 24A is formed of, for example, resin. For example, after arranging and positioning the plurality of blocks 230, they are housed in a mold having a cavity in the shape of the first frame 24A, and resin is injected into the cavity to form the first frame 24A.

[0126] The second frame 34A is a connecting member that connects the plurality of blocks 330 of the second outer cover 33 along the Y-axis direction. The second frame 34A has a frame shape surrounding the plurality of blocks 330 in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The second frame 34A connects the plurality of blocks 330 by engaging with each of the plurality of blocks 330. The second frame 34A is formed of, for example, resin. For example, after arranging and positioning the plurality of blocks 330, they are housed in a mold having a cavity in the shape of the second frame 34A, and resin is injected into the cavity to form the second frame 34A.

[0127] Figure 21 (a) in is a perspective view showing the appearance of a first unit 20A which is an example of a modified example. Figure 21Among them, (b) is a top view of the appearance of the first unit 20A of the exemplary variation example. Figure 21 Among them, (c) is a side view of the appearance of the first unit 20A of the exemplary variation example. Figure 21 Among them, (d) is a bottom view of the appearance of the first unit 20A of the exemplary variation example. The difference between the first unit 20A and the first unit 20 is that the first housing 22A is provided instead of the first housing 22. Hereinafter, the differences between the first unit 20A and the first unit 20 will be described. The first unit 20A has a pair of first upper surfaces 223.

[0128] The pair of first upper surfaces 223 have a flat plate shape that extends in a manner approaching each other with the upper ends of the respective pair of first side surfaces 221 as the base ends. For example, the pair of first upper surfaces 223 are formed to bend from the upper end of one first side surface 221 toward the other first side surface 221 and face each other. The pair of first upper surfaces 223 are disposed above the first connection portions 213 of the respective pair of first contacts 21 in the fitting direction. The pair of first upper surfaces 223 face the first substrate 200 with the first connection portions 213 interposed therebetween. The pair of first upper surfaces 223 are not located above the first contact portions 211 in the fitting direction. That is, the pair of first upper surfaces 223 do not face the first contact portions 211. According to this configuration, the shielding property of the first unit 20A is improved.

[0129] [Symbol Explanation]

[0130] 1, 1A: Connector device

[0131] 2, 2A: Electrical connector

[0132] 3, 3A: Object connector

[0133] 20: First unit

[0134] 21: First contact

[0135] 22: First housing

[0136] 23: First outer cover

[0137] 24: First side housing

[0138] 30: Second unit

[0139] 31: Second contact

[0140] 32: Second housing

[0141] 33: Second outer cover

[0142] 34: Second side housing

[0143] 200: First substrate

[0144] 211: First contact part

[0145] 212: First connecting leg part

[0146] 213: First connecting part

[0147] 221: First side surface

[0148] 222: First connecting surface

[0149] 223: First upper surface

[0150] 235: Fitting hole

[0151] 236: Engaging groove

[0152] 300: Second substrate

[0153] 311: Second contact part

[0154] 312: Second connecting leg part

[0155] 313: Second connecting part

[0156] 321: Second side surface

[0157] 322: Second connecting surface

[0158] 323: Protrusion

[0159] 334: Fitting protrusion

[0160] 335: Engaging groove

[0161] 24A: First frame

[0162] 34A: Second frame

[0163] C: Contact contact part

[0164] L: Axis

[0165] R: Region

[0166] S: Housing contact part.

Claims

1. A connector device includes an electrical connector mounted on a first substrate and a mating connector mounted on a second substrate and mating with the electrical connector. The electrical connector includes: A pair of conductive first contacts electrically connected to signal conductors of the first substrate; A conductive first housing electrically connected to a ground conductor of the first substrate and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts around an axis along the mating direction of the electrical connector and the mating connector; and A first outer cover holding the pair of first contacts and the first housing in an insulated state; The mating connector includes: A pair of conductive second contacts electrically connected to signal conductors of the second substrate; A conductive second housing electrically connected to a ground conductor of the second substrate and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of second contacts around the axis; and A second outer cover holding the pair of second contacts and the second housing in an insulated state; In the mated state of the electrical connector and the mating connector, the pair of first contacts contact the pair of second contacts, and the first housing contacts the second housing. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing and the second housing surround a contact portion where the pair of first contacts contact the pair of second contacts around the axis.

2. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein The first housing includes a pair of first side surfaces facing each other and a first connecting surface connecting the pair of first side surfaces. The second housing includes a pair of second side surfaces facing each other and a second connecting surface connecting the pair of second side surfaces. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the pair of first side surfaces, the pair of second side surfaces, the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface surround the contact portion around the axis.

3. The connector device according to claim 2, wherein The pair of second side surfaces include a pair of protrusions protruding away from the second substrate. In the mated state, the pair of protrusions contact the pair of first side surfaces. A housing contact portion where the pair of protrusions contact the pair of first side surfaces is closer to the first substrate than the contact portion.

4. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the pair of first contacts are electrically connected to signal conductors of the first substrate outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing.

5. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein The electrical connector includes a plurality of first units each including the pair of first contacts and the first housing. The plurality of first units are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the mating direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts and along the arrangement direction of the pair of first contacts. The mating connector includes a plurality of second units each including the pair of second contacts and the second housing. The plurality of second units are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points, and are also arranged along the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points.

6. The connector device according to claim 2, wherein the pair of first contact points include first connection legs that extend along the first substrate and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate, the pair of second contact points include second connection legs that extend along the second substrate and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the second substrate, in the mated state, the first connection legs and the second connection legs extend in directions away from each other.

7. The connector device according to claim 6, wherein the pair of first side surfaces face each other with the first connection legs therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points, the pair of second side surfaces face each other with the second connection legs therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points, in the mated state, the pair of first side surfaces face each other with the contact portion therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points, and the pair of second side surfaces face each other with the contact portion therebetween in the arrangement direction of the pair of second contact points.

8. The connector device according to claim 6, wherein in the mated state, the first joint surface does not face the second connection leg, and the second joint surface does not face the first connection leg.

9. The connector device according to claim 2, wherein when viewed from the fitting direction in the mated state, the pair of first contact points pass through the region between the second joint surface and the first substrate and extend outside the region surrounded by the first housing and the second housing, and are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate.

10. The connector device according to claim 2, wherein when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the fitting direction and orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the pair of first contact points in the mated state, the first joint surface and the second joint surface do not face each other.

11. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein a fitting hole is formed in the first outer cover and penetrates through the main surface and the back surface in a communicating manner, the main surface faces the target connector when mating with the target connector, and the back surface faces the first substrate, a fitting protrusion is formed in the second outer cover, and when mating with the electrical connector, the fitting protrusion protrudes away from the second substrate with the main surface facing the electrical connector as the base end, in the mated state, the fitting hole and the fitting protrusion are fitted together.

12. An electrical connector is mounted on a first substrate and mates with a target connector mounted on a second substrate, the electrical connector includes: a pair of conductive first contact points that are electrically connected to the signal conductors of the first substrate; A first conductive housing, electrically connected to a ground conductor of the first substrate, and covering a part of the periphery of the pair of first contacts around an axis along the mating direction of the electrical connector and the target connector; and A housing that holds the pair of first contacts and the first housing in an insulated state; In a mated state with the target connector, the pair of first contacts contact a pair of second conductive contacts of the target connector, and the first housing contacts a second conductive housing of the target connector. When viewed from the mating direction in the mated state, the first housing and the second housing surround a contact portion where the pair of first contacts contact the pair of second contacts around the axis.

Images