Relay connector

Abstract

A relay connector (10) is provided with a plurality of terminals (23) having conductivity, and a housing (20) having a main body section (30) that holds the plurality of terminals (23), and a cylindrical first connector fitting section (40) that protrudes from a first end surface (31) of the main body section (30) in a first direction (X1). A relay connector (10) is provided with: a recess (50) which is recessed from a first end surface (31) of a main body (30) in a first opposite direction and surrounds a plurality of terminals (23); and a potting material (24) that fills the recess (50) and seals the plurality of terminals (23). The housing (20) has one or more protrusions (45) that protrude from the first end surface (31) in the first direction (X1) and that protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting section (40) toward the inside in the radial direction of the first connector fitting section (40). In a plan view from the first direction (X1), the tip of the protrusion (45) on the inside in the radial direction is formed so as to engage with the recess (50).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Conventionally, relay connectors for use in vehicles, such as those mounted on oil-containing machine boxes, such as transmissions, are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Relay connectors are used to electrically connect the interior and exterior of a machine box. To prevent oil and other substances within the machine box from leaking out, these relay connectors utilize a potting compound to enhance their oil-stopping function. Specifically, a recessed portion is provided in the housing that holds the multiple terminals, and this recessed portion is filled with a potting compound. Furthermore, the potting compound is bonded to the multiple terminals, thereby preventing oil within the machine box from leaking out through the terminals. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-40551 Summary of the Invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] However, in recent years, the miniaturization and space-saving nature of equipment boxes equipped with relay connectors has been advancing, and with this, the miniaturization of relay connectors has also been advancing. As relay connectors become smaller, the recessed area filled with potting material also becomes smaller, shortening the distance between the outer edge of the recessed area and the terminal. This, coupled with the difference in linear expansion coefficients between the potting material and the housing, can lead to stress concentration in the potting material, which can lead to cracks in the potting material.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a relay connector capable of suppressing cracks in a potting material. Solutions to Problems

[0006] The relay connector of the present invention comprises: a plurality of conductive terminals; a housing having a main body, a cylindrical first connector fitting portion, and a cylindrical second connector fitting portion, the main body holding the plurality of terminals, the first connector fitting portion protruding from a first end face of the main body toward a first direction, and the second connector fitting portion protruding from a second end face provided on the opposite side of the first end face of the main body toward a first reverse direction, which is the reverse direction to the first direction; a recessed portion recessed from the first end face of the main body toward the first reverse direction and surrounding the plurality of terminals; and a potting material filled in the recessed portion and sealing the plurality of terminals, the housing having one or more protrusions, the protrusions protruding from the first end face toward the first direction and protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion toward the radially inner side of the first connector fitting portion, the radially inner tips of the protrusions being formed so as to engage with the recessed portion when viewed from above from the first direction. Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the relay connector of the present invention, cracks in the potting material can be suppressed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a relay connector according to an embodiment ( Figure 3 1-1 line cross-sectional view in the figure). Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing a relay connector according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is a schematic plan view showing a relay connector according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a relay connector according to an embodiment ( Figure 1 4-4 line section view in the figure). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] [Description of Embodiments of the Invention] First, embodiments of the present invention will be described below. [1] The relay connector of the present invention comprises: a plurality of terminals having conductivity; a housing having a main body, a cylindrical first connector fitting portion, and a cylindrical second connector fitting portion, the main body holding the plurality of terminals, the first connector fitting portion protruding from a first end face of the main body toward a first direction, and the second connector fitting portion protruding from a second end face provided on the opposite side of the first end face of the main body toward a first reverse direction, which is a direction opposite to the first direction; a recessed portion recessed from the first end face of the main body toward the first reverse direction and surrounding the plurality of terminals; and a potting material filled in the recessed portion and sealing the plurality of terminals, the housing having one or more protruding portions, the protruding portions protruding from the first end face toward the first direction and protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion toward the radial inner side of the first connector fitting portion, wherein the radially inner tip of the protruding portion is formed so as to engage with the recessed portion when viewed from above from the first direction.

[0010] According to this structure, when viewed from above in the first direction, the tip of the protrusion, which protrudes radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion, is formed so as to engage with the recess. In other words, the recess filled with potting material is formed so as to extend radially outward from the tip of the protrusion. Therefore, even if, for example, the tip of the protrusion extends close to the terminal due to the reduction in the front width of the first connector mating portion, the outer edge of the recess can be appropriately spaced away from the terminal, ensuring a longer distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal. This prevents the distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal from being shortened compared to a case where the recess is formed only in the area radially inward from the tip of the protrusion. As a result, stress concentration in the potting material filled in the recess can be suppressed, and cracking of the potting material can be appropriately suppressed.

[0011] [2] In the above [1], the protrusion may include a misassembly preventing projection, and the recess may be formed so as to surround the radially inner tip of the misassembly preventing projection from three directions when viewed from above from the first direction.

[0012] With this structure, the recess can be formed so as to extend around the side wall of the incorrect assembly preventing projection. Consequently, the recess can be appropriately formed to extend radially outward from the tip of the incorrect assembly preventing projection. Consequently, even if the tip of the incorrect assembly preventing projection extends close to the terminal, the distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal can be appropriately prevented from shortening. Consequently, cracks in the potting material can be appropriately suppressed.

[0013] [3] In the above [1] or [2], the radially inner top end of the protrusion may be formed into a shape that becomes increasingly thinner toward the end, and when viewed from above from the first direction, the outer edge shape of the recess has a shape along the radially inner top end of the protrusion.

[0014] According to this structure, the tip of the protrusion is formed to become increasingly tapered toward the terminal. Therefore, the tip of the protrusion is formed so that it moves away from the terminal as it approaches the sidewall of the protrusion. Since the recess is formed along the tip of the protrusion, the outer edge of the recess can be appropriately formed away from the terminal. Thus, even if the tip of the protrusion extends close to the terminal, the distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal can be appropriately prevented from shortening.

[0015] [4] In any one of the above [1] to [3], the housing may have an enlarged recess, which is recessed from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion toward the radially outer side of the first connector fitting portion, and enlarges the internal space of the first connector fitting portion, and is formed in a manner that enters the interior of the enlarged recess when viewed from above from the first direction.

[0016] According to this structure, an enlarged recess is provided on the inner circumference of the first connector fitting portion. This allows the interior space of the first connector fitting portion to be expanded while suppressing the size of the first connector fitting portion. Furthermore, because the recess is formed so as to extend into the interior of the enlarged recess, the outer edge of the recess can be appropriately spaced from the terminal, ensuring a longer distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal.

[0017] [5] In any one of the above [1] to [4], it may also be that, when viewed from above from the first direction, the outer edge shape of the recess has a curved shape that bends away from the terminal arranged radially outside the first connector mating portion among the multiple terminals.

[0018] With this configuration, the outer edge of the recess is formed into a curved shape. Therefore, when the potting material is filled into the recess, its fluidity is enhanced. This prevents the potting material from accumulating at the outer edge of the recess, thereby effectively preventing the potting material from creeping out of the recess at the outer edge.

[0019] [6] In any one of the above [1] to [5], the outer edge shape of the recess may be formed only by a curved shape. According to this structure, the outer edge of the recess is formed solely of a curved shape. Therefore, when the potting material is filled into the recess, the fluidity of the potting material can be further improved. This can more appropriately prevent the potting material from climbing up the outer edge of the recess.

[0020] [7] In any one of the above [1] to [6], the relay connector may be mounted on a mounting hole of a machine box, the external space of the machine box is an atmospheric environment, and the internal space of the machine box is an oil environment, the first end face is an end face facing the outside of the machine box, the second end face is an end face facing the inside of the machine box, the first connector fitting portion is provided in a manner protruding toward the external space of the machine box, and the second connector fitting portion is provided in a manner protruding toward the internal space of the machine box.

[0021] According to this structure, a recess is provided on the first end surface facing the outside of the machine box, and the recess is filled with potting material. The potting material can appropriately suppress oil leakage from the inside of the machine box, which is an oil-filled environment, along the terminals to the outside of the machine box.

[0022] [8] In any one of the above [1] to [7], the first connector fitting portion may be formed as a non-waterproof structure that fits internally into a counterpart connector that is a non-waterproof connector, and the first connector fitting portion may have a through hole that is provided in a circumferential portion of the first connector fitting portion and connects the inside and outside of the first connector fitting portion.

[0023] With this structure, a non-waterproof mating connector is fitted inside the first connector's mating portion. In this case, the front width of the first connector's mating portion decreases, and the tip of the protrusion tends to extend close to the terminal. Even in this case, the distance between the outer edge of the recess and the terminal can be appropriately prevented from shortening. As a result, cracks in the potting material can be appropriately suppressed.

[0024] [Details of Embodiments of the Invention] The following describes a specific example of the relay connector of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each of the drawings, for the sake of convenience, a part of the structure is sometimes enlarged or simplified. In addition, the dimensional ratios of each part are sometimes different in each of the drawings. "Orthogonal" or "parallel" in this specification includes not only the case of being strictly orthogonal or parallel, but also the case of being roughly orthogonal or parallel within the range of the effect of the present embodiment. "Cylindrical" used in the description of this specification includes not only a shape with a circumferential wall continuously formed throughout the circumference, but also a shape formed by combining multiple parts to form a cylindrical shape, a shape with a notch in a part of the circumference such as a C-shape. In addition, the shape of "cylindrical" includes a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon with a pointed or rounded corner, but is not limited to this. In addition, the present invention is not limited to these examples, but is shown in the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0025] (Overall structure) like Figure 1 As shown, the relay connector 10 is mounted on a vehicle's machine box 200. The relay connector 10 can be mounted on the machine box 200 in any orientation, depending on the orientation of the machine box 200. The relay connector 10 is secured to the machine box 200, for example, using bolts. The relay connector 10 is a connector for electrically connecting the interior and exterior of the machine box 200.

[0026] The machine case 200 is, for example, a gearbox. It is made of metal, for example. The interior of the machine case 200 is an oil-filled environment, while the exterior of the machine case 200 is an atmospheric environment. Electrical components, such as a motor and sensors, are housed within the machine case 200. The machine case 200 has a mounting hole 201 through which the relay connector 10 extends. The mounting hole 201 is formed to connect the interior and exterior of the machine case 200.

[0027] The relay connector 10 engages with the mounting hole 201 of the device case 200. For example, the relay connector 10 is electrically connected to a mating connector 100 outside the device case 200. The mating connector 100 is provided in a control unit that houses control circuitry and the like. Although not shown, the relay connector 10 is electrically connected to a second mating connector provided inside the device case 200, for example. For example, the control circuit provided in the control unit is electrically connected to electrical components provided inside the device case 200 via the mating connector 100, the relay connector 10, and the second mating connector.

[0028] (Structure of Relay Connector 10) like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the relay connector 10 includes a housing 20, a plurality of conductive terminals 23 held in the housing 20, a potting material 24 that seals the plurality of terminals 23, and a sealing member 25. The relay connector 10 of this embodiment includes ten terminals 23.

[0029] (Structure of Housing 20) like Figure 1As shown, the housing 20 includes a main body 30 and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion 40 that protrudes from a first end face 31 of the main body 30 in a first direction X1. The housing 20 includes a cylindrical second connector fitting portion 60 that protrudes from a second end face 32 of the main body 30 in a first opposite direction X2 that is the opposite direction of the first direction X1. Here, the first end face 31 is an end face facing the outside of the machine case 200, and the second end face 32 is an end face facing the inside of the machine case 200. The housing 20 is, for example, a single component in which the main body 30, the first connector fitting portion 40, and the second connector fitting portion 60 are continuously and integrally formed. The housing 20 is made of, for example, an insulating synthetic resin. As the material of the housing 20, for example, polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, or polybutylene terephthalate can be used.

[0030] In the following description, when describing the positional relationship of the components of the relay connector 10, the direction perpendicular to the first direction X1 is considered to be Figure 2 The direction toward the right in the direction X1 is called the second direction Y1, and the direction opposite to the second direction Y1 is called the second opposite direction Y2. Figure 2 The upward direction is referred to as a third direction Z1, and the direction opposite to the third direction Z1 is referred to as a third opposite direction Z2.

[0031] (Structure of the Main Body 30) like Figure 1 As shown, the main body 30 includes, for example, an insertion portion 33 inserted into the assembly hole 201 of the device case 200 , a terminal holding portion 35 holding the plurality of terminals 23 , and a flange portion 36 disposed outside the device case 200 .

[0032] The insertion portion 33 is inserted into the assembly hole 201 of the device case 200, for example, along the first reverse direction X2. The insertion portion 33 engages with the inner side of the assembly hole 201. The insertion portion 33 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape. The insertion portion 33 is, for example, open in the first reverse direction X2. The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 33 is, for example, formed to conform to the inner circumferential surface defining the assembly hole 201. The insertion portion 33 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape with a continuous peripheral wall extending throughout the entire circumference, i.e., an annular structure with a starting and ending point aligned.

[0033] The outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 33 is provided with, for example, a receiving groove 33X for receiving the sealing member 25. The receiving groove 33X is formed so as to be recessed from the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 33 toward the radial inner side of the insertion portion 33. The receiving groove 33X is formed, for example, over the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 33. The cylindrical sealing member 25 is fitted into the receiving groove 33X. When the insertion portion 33 is fitted into the assembly hole 201, the sealing member 25 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface defining the assembly hole 201 over the entire circumference, thereby sealing the outer peripheral surface of the housing 20 and the inner peripheral surface of the machine box 200.

[0034] (Structure of Sealing Member 25) The sealing member 25 is configured to be elastically deformable. The sealing member 25 is, for example, formed into a cylindrical shape that is continuous throughout the circumference of the insertion portion 33, that is, an annular structure with the starting end and the terminal end being consistent. The sealing member 25 is, for example, an O-ring. The inner circumferential shape of the sealing member 25 is, for example, formed into a shape that follows the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 33. The outer circumferential shape of the sealing member 25 is, for example, formed into a shape that follows the inner circumferential surface that demarcates the assembly hole 201. The sealing member 25 of this embodiment is formed into a cylindrical shape whose inner and outer circumferential shapes are circular. The sealing member 25 is, for example, made of rubber.

[0035] (Structure of the Main Body 30) The main body 30 includes, for example, a bottom wall 34 that closes the opening in the first direction X1 of the insertion portion 33. An end surface of the bottom wall 34 in the first opposite direction X2 constitutes a second end surface 32 of the main body 30.

[0036] The terminal holding portion 35 protrudes, for example, from the end surface of the bottom wall 34 facing the first opposite direction X2, i.e., the second end surface 32 of the main body 30, toward the first opposite direction X2. The terminal holding portion 35 is, for example, disposed within the interior space of the insertion portion 33. The terminal holding portion 35 is, for example, disposed within the interior space of the second connector fitting portion 60. The terminal holding portion 35 is, for example, continuously and integrally formed with the peripheral wall of the second connector fitting portion 60. The terminal holding portion 35 is, for example, disposed radially of the insertion portion 33, spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the insertion portion 33.

[0037] The terminal holding portion 35 tightly covers the outer peripheral surface of each terminal 23 over the entire circumference. The terminal holding portion 35 holds the terminal 23 in a state of embedding the axial middle portion thereof. In other words, a portion of each terminal 23 is embedded in the interior of the housing 20.

[0038] Here, each terminal 23 is, for example, rod-shaped. Each terminal 23 extends linearly along the first direction X1. Each terminal 23 is, for example, made of metal. Each terminal 23 protrudes from an end surface of the terminal holding portion 35 in the first direction X1 toward the first direction X1, and also protrudes from an end surface of the terminal holding portion 35 in the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2.

[0039] like Figure 3 As shown, for example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, ten terminals 23 are spaced apart along the second direction Y1 and spaced apart along the third direction Z1. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the ten terminals 23 are arranged in a grid or matrix. Eight of the ten terminals 23 are arranged in a 4×2 matrix. The remaining two terminals 23 are located farther away from the eight terminals 23 in the third opposite direction Z2. The remaining two terminals 23 are located in the center of the second direction Y1.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, when the insertion portion 33 is engaged with the mounting hole 201, the flange portion 36 is disposed in the space outside the device case 200. The flange portion 36 is formed, for example, to extend radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 33. The flange portion 36 is formed, for example, to protrude radially outward over the entire circumference of the insertion portion 33. Specifically, the flange portion 36 protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the insertion portion 33 into the mounting hole 201 (here, the first reverse direction X2). The end surface of the flange portion 36 in the first reverse direction X2 is configured to contact the outer surface of the device case 200. The end surface of the flange portion 36 in the first reverse direction X2 is configured, for example, to engage with the outer surface of the device case 200 in the first direction X1. The insertion portion 33 protrudes, for example, from the end surface of the flange portion 36 in the first reverse direction X2. The end surface of the flange portion 36 in the first direction X1 constitutes the first end surface 31 of the main body 30.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the flange portion 36 has, for example, a fixing portion 37. The fixing portion 37 protrudes radially outward more than other portions. The fixing portion 37 of this embodiment protrudes toward the third reverse direction Z2. The fixing portion 37 is formed in a plate shape. The fixing portion 37 has, for example, a through hole 37X that penetrates the fixing portion 37 along the plate thickness direction (here, the first direction X1). A metal collar 38 is inserted into the through hole 37X, for example. The collar 38 is formed in, for example, a cylindrical shape. A fixing bolt, not shown in the figure, is inserted into the hole of the collar 38. As shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the housing 20 is fixed to the machine box 200 by fastening bolts inserted into holes of the collar 38 .

[0042] The main body 30 includes, for example, a bottom wall 39 that closes the opening in the first reverse direction X2 of the first connector fitting portion 40. The bottom wall 39 is, for example, formed integrally and continuously with the bottom wall 34. The end surface of the bottom wall 39 in the first direction X1 constitutes the first end surface 31 of the main body 30. The end surface of the bottom wall 39 in the first direction X1 constitutes the bottom surface of the first connector fitting portion 40.

[0043] (Structure of the First Connector Fitting Portion 40) When the insertion portion 33 is engaged with the assembly hole 201, the first connector engaging portion 40 is provided in the external space of the machine case 200. The counterpart connector 100 provided on the outside of the machine case 200 is engaged with the first connector engaging portion 40. Here, the counterpart connector 100 has a counterpart housing 101 and a counterpart terminal not shown in the figure, and the counterpart terminal is retained in the counterpart housing 101 and electrically connected to the terminal 23. The counterpart connector 100 of this embodiment is a non-waterproof connector. The counterpart housing 101 of the counterpart connector 100 is engaged with the inside of the first connector engaging portion 40 along the first reverse direction X2. The first connector engaging portion 40 of this embodiment is formed as a non-waterproof structure that is engaged with the counterpart connector 100 as a non-waterproof connector internally.

[0044] The first connector fitting portion 40 protrudes in the first direction X1 from the first end surface 31, i.e., the end surface of the flange portion 36 in the first direction X1. The first connector fitting portion 40 protrudes toward the exterior of the device case 200. The first connector fitting portion 40 is, for example, open in the first direction X1. The first connector fitting portion 40 surrounds the outer periphery of the terminal 23, which protrudes from the potting material 24 in the first direction X1. The inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 is provided separately from the terminal 23. The inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 surrounds the outer periphery of the terminal 23, for example, while being separated from the terminal 23.

[0045] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the first connector fitting portion 40 is formed into a square cylindrical shape as a whole. The first connector fitting portion 40 includes, for example, a peripheral wall 41 extending in the second direction Y1, a peripheral wall 42 extending in the second opposite direction Y2, a peripheral wall 43 extending in the third direction Z1, and a peripheral wall 44 extending in the third opposite direction Z2. The peripheral walls 41 and 42 each have a step at their ends in the third direction Z1.

[0046] The inner circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 is provided with protrusions 45, 46, and 47. The protrusions 45, 46, and 47 protrude radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion 40. The first connector fitting portion 40 of this embodiment includes one protrusion 45, two protrusions 46, and two protrusions 47. The first connector fitting portion 40 is formed, for example, into a plane-symmetrical shape with respect to an imaginary plane that includes the center of the first connector fitting portion 40 in the second direction Y1 and extends along the XZ plane.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the protruding portions 45 , 46 , and 47 extends along the first direction X1 . Each of the protruding portions 45 , 46 , and 47 extends over the entire length of the first connector fitting portion 40 in the axial direction, for example.

[0048] A protrusion 45 is provided, for example, on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 44. The protrusion 45 protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 44 toward the radial inner side (here, the third direction Z1) of the first connector fitting portion 40. The protrusion 45 is provided, for example, at the center portion of the peripheral wall 44 in the second direction Y1. The radial inner tip of the protrusion 45, that is, the end portion of the protrusion 45 in the third direction Z1, for example, extends to the vicinity of the plurality of terminals 23. Figure 4 As shown, the radially inner top end of the protrusion 45 is formed, for example, into a shape that becomes increasingly tapered toward the end. The shape of the first connector fitting portion 40 including the protrusion 45 is formed, for example, into an asymmetrical shape. The protrusion 45 is, for example, an anti-misassembly protrusion that prevents the counterpart connector 100 from being fitted in an incorrect position relative to the first connector fitting portion 40. The protrusion 45 is formed, for example, so as to be insertable into the anti-misassembly groove 102 provided in the counterpart housing 101 along the first direction X1. The protrusion 45 is provided, for example, so as to be able to engage with the anti-misassembly groove 102 in the circumferential direction of the first connector fitting portion 40 when the counterpart housing 101 is fitted with the first connector fitting portion 40.

[0049] The two protrusions 46 are provided, for example, one each on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 41 and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 42. One protrusion 46 protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 41 toward the radially inner side of the first connector mating portion 40 (here, the second reverse direction Y2). One protrusion 46 protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 42 toward the radially inner side of the first connector mating portion 40 (here, the second direction Y1). The two protrusions 46 are provided, for example, on the inner circumferential surfaces of the stepped portions of the peripheral walls 41 and 42, respectively. The two protrusions 46 are formed, for example, so as to oppose each other in the second direction Y1. The radially inner tip of each protrusion 46 extends, for example, to the vicinity of the plurality of terminals 23. The radially inner tip of each protrusion 46 is formed, for example, to gradually taper toward the distal end. Each protrusion 46 is, for example, a guide protrusion that guides the mating connector 100 when mating it with the first connector mating portion 40. Each protrusion 46 is formed, for example, to be insertable along the first direction X1 into a guide groove 103 provided in the mating housing 101. Each protrusion 46 is provided, for example, to engage with the guide groove 103 in the circumferential direction of the first connector fitting portion 40 when the mating housing 101 and the first connector fitting portion 40 are fitted together.

[0050] Each of the two protrusions 47 is, for example, provided on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 44. The two protrusions 47 protrude radially inward (here, in the third direction Z1) from the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 44 of the first connector mating portion 40. The two protrusions 47 are provided, for example, so as to sandwich the protrusion 45 from both sides in the second direction Y1. The radially inner tip of each protrusion 47 is, for example, located farther from the plurality of terminals 23 than the other protrusions 45 and 46. Each protrusion 47 is, for example, a guide protrusion that guides the mating connector 100 when mating it with the first connector mating portion 40. Each protrusion 47 is, for example, formed so as to be insertable into a guide groove 104 provided in the mating housing 101 along the first direction X1. Each protrusion 47 is provided, for example, so as to engage with the guide groove 104 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 40 when the mating housing 101 and the first connector mating portion 40 are mated.

[0051] The first connector fitting portion 40 includes, for example, an enlarged recess 48 that expands the interior space of the first connector fitting portion 40. The enlarged recess 48 is formed, for example, so as to be recessed from the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 43 toward the radially outer side of the first connector fitting portion 40. The enlarged recess 48 extends, for example, along the second direction Y1. The enlarged recess 48 is provided, for example, in a region that faces the terminal 23 in the third direction Z1.

[0052] The first connector fitting portion 40 has, for example, one or more through holes 49 that connect the inside and outside of the first connector fitting portion 40. The first connector fitting portion 40 of this embodiment has two through holes 49. The two through holes 49 are provided in a portion of the circumference of the first connector fitting portion 40. The two through holes 49 are provided, for example, in a manner that sandwiches the protrusion 45 from both sides in the second direction Y1. Each through hole 49 is formed, for example, in a manner that penetrates the peripheral wall 44 along the third direction Z1. Figure 1 As shown, each through-hole 49 is provided in the middle portion of the peripheral wall 44 in the first direction X1. The inner surface defining each through-hole 49 is formed to be engageable with the engaging protrusion 105 of the mating housing 101. The inner surface defining each through-hole 49 is formed to be engageable with the engaging protrusion 105 in the first direction X1.

[0053] The first connector fitting portion 40 includes a recessed portion 50 provided on the bottom surface of the first connector fitting portion 40, i.e., on the end surface of the bottom wall 39 in the first direction X1. The recessed portion 50 is formed so as to be recessed from the bottom surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 in the first reverse direction X2. For example, the recessed portion 50 is formed so as to be recessed to the middle portion of the bottom wall 34, which constitutes a portion of the insertion portion 33. For example, the recessed portion 50 is formed so that the opening width decreases as it moves from the bottom surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 toward the first reverse direction X2.

[0054] like Figure 3As shown, the recess 50 is formed so as to surround the plurality of terminals 23 when viewed from above in the first direction X1. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so as to surround the plurality of terminals 23. Ten terminals 23 are housed within one recess 50. When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the inner surface defining the recess 50 is positioned away from the terminals 23.

[0055] When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so that the recess 50 is engaged with the radially inner tip of the protrusion 45. In other words, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the radially inner tip of the protrusion 45 is engaged with the recess 50. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so as to extend radially outward from the tip of the protrusion 45. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 surrounds the radially inner tip of the protrusion 45 from three directions. Specifically, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 surrounds the radially inner tip of the protrusion 45 from three directions: the third direction Z1, the second direction Y1, and the second reverse direction Y2.

[0056] When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so that the recess 50 is engaged with the radially inner tip of the protrusion 46. In other words, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the radially inner tip of the protrusion 46 is engaged with the recess 50. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so as to extend radially outward from the tip of the protrusion 46. For example, when viewed from above in the first direction X1, the outer edge of the recess 50 has a shape that follows the tip of the protrusion 46, which tapers toward the distal end.

[0057] For example, in a plan view seen from the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so as to penetrate into the enlarged recess 48. The outer edge shape of the portion of the recess 50 that penetrates into the enlarged recess 48 is formed in a wavy shape, for example.

[0058] When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the outer edge of the recess 50 has a curved shape that bends away from the terminals 23 arranged radially outward from the first connector fitting portion 40 among the multiple terminals 23. When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the outer edge of the recess 50 of this embodiment is formed solely by a curved shape. The outer edge of the recess 50 of this embodiment has eight arc shapes 51 that are curved into an arc shape so as to be away from each of the eight terminals 23 arranged radially outward from the first connector fitting portion 40 among the ten terminals 23. The outer edge of the recess 50 of this embodiment is formed by continuously connecting the eight arc shapes 51. The radially inner top end of the protrusion 45 is surrounded by two arc shapes 51 from three directions. The shape along the radially inner top end of each protrusion 46 is composed of two arc shapes 51. The four arc shapes 51 are formed so as to enter the interior of the expanded recess 48.

[0059] (Structure of the potting material 24) The potting material 24 fills the recess 50. Therefore, the planar shape of the potting material 24, as viewed from the first direction X1, is formed to be the same as the planar shape of the recess 50, as viewed from the first direction X1. The potting material 24 is formed so as to surround each of the plurality of terminals 23. The potting material 24 is bonded to each of the plurality of terminals 23. The potting material 24 is a sealing material that seals the plurality of terminals 23.

[0060] The potting material 24 covers the outer peripheral surface of each terminal 23 in a close contact state over the entire circumference. Figure 1 As shown, the potting material 24 covers each terminal 23 in a state of embedding the middle portion of each terminal 23 in the axial direction, for example.

[0061] (Structure of Second Connector Fitting Portion 60) The second connector fitting portion 60 protrudes in the first opposite direction X2 from the end surface of the bottom wall 34 of the insertion portion 33, that is, the second end surface 32 of the main body 30. The second connector fitting portion 60 protrudes toward the interior space of the device case 200. For example, a second mating connector (not shown) provided inside the device case 200 is mated with the second connector fitting portion 60. The second connector fitting portion 60 is formed, for example, into a non-waterproof structure that is mated with the second mating connector, which is a non-waterproof connector.

[0062] The second connector fitting portion 60 is, for example, open in the first reverse direction X2. The second connector fitting portion 60 surrounds, for example, the outer periphery of the terminal 23 protruding from the end surface of the terminal holding portion 35 in the first reverse direction X2. The inner peripheral surface of the second connector fitting portion 60 is provided separately from the terminal 23. The inner peripheral surface of the second connector fitting portion 60 surrounds the outer periphery of the terminal 23 over the entire circumference while being separated from the terminal 23.

[0063] The second connector fitting portion 60 includes a through-hole 61 provided in a portion of the circumference of the second connector fitting portion 60. The through-hole 61 is formed to connect the inside and outside of the second connector fitting portion 60. The through-hole 61 is formed, for example, to penetrate the circumferential wall of the second connector fitting portion 60 along the third direction Z1. The through-hole 61 is provided in the middle portion of the second connector fitting portion 60 in the axial direction. The inner surface defining the through-hole 61 is formed, for example, to engage with an engaging protrusion (not shown) of the second mating connector.

[0064] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) The relay connector 10 includes a plurality of conductive terminals 23 and a housing 20. The housing 20 includes a main body 30 that holds the plurality of terminals 23 and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion 40 that protrudes from a first end face 31 of the main body 30 in a first direction X1. The housing 20 includes a cylindrical second connector fitting portion 60 that protrudes from a second end face 32 located on the opposite side of the first end face 31 of the main body 30 in a first reverse direction X2 that is a direction opposite to the first direction X1. The relay connector 10 includes a recess 50 that is recessed from the first end face 31 of the main body 30 in the first reverse direction X2 and surrounds the plurality of terminals 23, and a potting material 24 that fills the recess 50 and seals the plurality of terminals 23. The housing 20 includes one or more protrusions 45 and 46. The protrusions 45 and 46 protrude from the first end surface 31 in the first direction X1 and protrude from the inner circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion 40 toward the radially inner side of the first connector fitting portion 40. The radially inner tips of the protrusions 45 and 46 are formed so as to engage with the recess 50 when viewed from above in the first direction X1.

[0065] According to this structure, the tips of the protrusions 45 and 46, which protrude radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion 40, are formed so as to engage with the recess 50 when viewed from above in the first direction X1. In other words, the recess 50, filled with the potting material 24, is formed so as to extend radially outward from the tips of the protrusions 45 and 46. Therefore, even if, for example, the tips of the protrusions 45 and 46 extend close to the terminal 23 due to a reduction in the front width of the first connector fitting portion 40, the outer edge of the recess 50 can be appropriately spaced away from the terminal 23, ensuring a longer distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminal 23. This prevents the distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminal 23 from being shortened compared to a case where the recess 50 is formed only in the region radially inward of the tips of the protrusions 45 and 46. As a result, stress concentration in the potting material 24 filling the recess 50 can be suppressed, and cracking of the potting material 24 can be appropriately prevented.

[0066] (2) When viewed from above in the first direction X1, the recess 50 is formed so as to surround the tip of the protrusion 45, which serves as the misassembly prevention projection, from three directions. This configuration allows the recess 50 to be formed as a side wall extending around the tip of the protrusion 45. Therefore, the recess 50 can be appropriately formed to extend radially outward from the tip of the protrusion 45. Thus, even if the tip of the protrusion 45 extends to the vicinity of the terminal 23, the distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminal 23 can be appropriately suppressed from being shortened. Consequently, cracks in the potting material 24 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0067] (3) The top end of the protrusion 46 is formed to be tapered toward the end. Therefore, the radially inner top end of the protrusion 46 is formed so as to move away from the terminal 23 as it approaches the side wall of the protrusion 46. The recess 50 is formed to follow the top end of the protrusion 46. Therefore, the outer edge of the recess 50 can be appropriately formed to be away from the terminal 23. Thus, even if the top end of the protrusion 46 extends to the vicinity of the terminal 23, the distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminal 23 can be appropriately suppressed from being shortened.

[0068] (4) An enlarged recess 48 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion 40. The enlarged recess 48 expands the internal space of the first connector fitting portion 40. This allows the internal space of the first connector fitting portion 40 to be expanded while suppressing the size of the first connector fitting portion 40. Furthermore, since the recess 50 is formed so as to extend into the interior of the enlarged recess 48, the outer edge of the recess 50 can be appropriately spaced from the terminal 23, ensuring a longer distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminal 23.

[0069] (5) The outer edge of the recess 50 is formed into a curved shape. Therefore, when the potting material 24 is filled into the recess 50, the fluidity of the potting material 24 can be improved. This prevents the potting material 24 from stagnating at the outer edge of the recess 50, thereby appropriately preventing the potting material 24 from climbing out of the recess 50 at the outer edge.

[0070] (6) The outer edge of the recess 50 is formed solely of a curved shape. Therefore, when the potting material 24 is filled into the recess 50, the fluidity of the potting material 24 can be further improved. This can more appropriately suppress the potting material 24 from climbing up the outer edge of the recess 50.

[0071] (7) The mating connector 100, which is a non-waterproof connector, is fitted into the interior of the first connector fitting portion 40. In this case, since the front width of the first connector fitting portion 40 is reduced, the tips of the protrusions 45 and 46 tend to extend near the terminals 23. Even in this case, the distance between the outer edge of the recess 50 and the terminals 23 can be appropriately suppressed from being shortened. As a result, the occurrence of cracks in the potting material 24 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0072] (Other embodiments) The above embodiment can be implemented as the following modifications. The above embodiment and the following modifications can be implemented in combination with each other within the scope of no technical contradiction.

[0073] The structure of the first connector fitting portion 40 in the above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate. In the above embodiment, the first connector fitting portion 40 is formed as a non-waterproof structure, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first connector fitting portion 40 may be formed as a waterproof structure that fits with a counterpart connector that is a waterproof connector. In this case, for example, the through hole 49 can be omitted.

[0074] The number and formation positions of the protrusions 45 , 46 , and 47 in the above-described embodiment can be changed as appropriate. The protrusion 47 in the above embodiment may be omitted. Either of the protrusions 45 and 46 in the above embodiment may be omitted.

[0075] The enlarged recess 48 of the above embodiment may be omitted. The structure of the second connector fitting portion 60 in the above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate. In the above embodiment, the second connector fitting portion 60 is formed as a non-waterproof structure, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the second connector fitting portion 60 may be formed as a waterproof structure that fits with a second mating connector that is a waterproof connector. In this case, for example, the through hole 61 can be omitted.

[0076] The structure of the recessed portion 50 in the above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate. In the above embodiment, the outer edge shape of the recess 50 is formed only of a curved shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the outer edge shape of the recess 50 may be changed to include a straight line shape.

[0077] In the above embodiment, the recess 50 is formed on the first end surface 31 facing the outside of the device case 200, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the recess 50 may be formed on a surface facing the inside of the device case 200. For example, the recess 50 may be formed on the end surface of the terminal holding portion 35 in the first reverse direction X2.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the sealing member 25 is embodied as a rubber ring, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a ring member made of an elastic body other than rubber may be used as the sealing member 25 .

[0079] In the above embodiment, the relay connector 10 is specifically mounted on a machine case 200 serving as a transmission, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can also be applied to relay connectors used in machine cases other than transmissions. Furthermore, the internal environment of the machine case 200 to which the relay connector 10 is mounted is not limited to an oily environment; the present invention can also be applied to relay connectors for machines that do not use oil within the machine case 200.

[0080] The recess 50 of the non-limiting embodiment shown in the figure is an example of a potting resin receiving pit, which is configured to accommodate a potting resin that may be a potting material 54. Figure 3 ), the recess 50 has a pit inner peripheral wall surface that is in direct contact with the potting resin. The pit inner peripheral wall surface of the recess 50 can also be configured so that the potting resin has a potting resin side surface in which a plurality of potting resin convex curved surfaces and a plurality of potting resin concave curved surfaces alternately extend. For example, the pit inner peripheral wall surface of the recess 50 can be a curved surface in which a plurality of concave curved surface areas corresponding to a plurality of potting resin convex curved surfaces and a plurality of convex curved surface areas corresponding to a plurality of potting resin concave curved surfaces alternately extend, or it can be a non-planar surface. When the recess 50 is viewed from above ( Figure 3 ), the top end of the protrusion 45 or the top end of the protrusion 46 can also point to the bottom position or the deepest position of a corresponding concave curved surface area among the multiple concave curved surface areas of the inner peripheral wall surface of the pit of the recess 50 and be adjacent to the bottom position or the deepest position.

[0081] The embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not defined by the above description but by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Description of Reference Numerals

[0082] 10 Relay connector 20 housing 23 terminals 24. Pouring pot material 25 Sealing member 30 Main body 31 1st end face 32 2nd end face 33 Insertion 33X Storage Slot 34 bottom wall 35 Terminal holding portion 36 flange 37 Fixed part 37X through hole 38 rings 39 bottom wall 40 1st connector fitting portion 41, 42, 43, 44 surrounding walls 45 Protrusion (to prevent incorrect assembly of the protrusion) 46 protrusion 47 protrusion 48 Expand the recess 49 through hole 50 recess 51 Arc shape 60 Second connector fitting portion 61 through hole 100 Mating connector 101 Other shell 102 Anti-misassembly slot 103 guide groove 104 guide groove 105 engagement protrusion 200 machine box 201 mounting hole X1 1st direction X2 1st reverse direction Y1 2nd direction Y2 2nd reverse direction Z1 3rd direction Z2 3rd reverse direction

Claims

1. A relay connector comprising: Multiple terminals, with electrical conductivity; a housing having a main body portion, a cylindrical first connector fitting portion, and a cylindrical second connector fitting portion, wherein the main body portion holds the plurality of terminals, the first connector fitting portion protruding from a first end face of the main body portion toward a first direction, and the second connector fitting portion protruding from a second end face of the main body portion, which is located on the opposite side of the first end face, toward a first opposite direction that is opposite to the first direction; a recessed portion, recessed from the first end surface of the main body toward the first reverse direction, and surrounding the plurality of terminals; as well as a potting material that fills the recess and seals the plurality of terminals, The housing has one or more protrusions, the protrusions protruding from the first end surface toward the first direction and protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion toward the radial inner side of the first connector fitting portion. The radially inner tip of the protrusion is formed so as to engage with the recess in a plan view seen from the first direction.

2. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The protrusion has a convex portion to prevent misassembly, The recessed portion is formed so as to surround the radially inner tip of the erroneous assembly preventing protrusion from three directions in a plan view seen from the first direction.

3. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The radially inner tip of the protrusion is formed into a shape that becomes increasingly thinner toward the distal end. In a plan view seen from the first direction, an outer edge shape of the recessed portion has a shape that follows the radially inner tip of the protruding portion.

4. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The housing has an enlarged recessed portion, which is recessed from the inner peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion toward the radially outer side of the first connector fitting portion and expands the internal space of the first connector fitting portion. The recess is formed so as to enter the interior of the enlarged recess in a plan view seen from the first direction.

5. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The outer edge of the recess has a curved shape that curves away from terminals arranged radially outward of the first connector fitting portion among the plurality of terminals when viewed from the first direction. The relay connector according to claim 1 , wherein: The outer edge shape of the recessed portion is formed only by a curved line.

7. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The relay connector is assembled in the assembly hole of the machine box, the external space of the machine box is an atmospheric environment, and the internal space of the machine box is an oil environment, The first end face is the end face facing the outside of the machine box, The second end face is the end face facing the interior of the machine box, The first connector fitting portion is provided so as to protrude toward the external space of the machine box. The second connector fitting portion is provided so as to protrude into the internal space of the device box.

8. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein The first connector fitting portion is formed as a non-waterproof structure in which a counterpart connector as a non-waterproof connector is fitted. The first connector fitting portion has a through hole provided in a portion in a circumferential direction of the first connector fitting portion and connecting the inside and outside of the first connector fitting portion.

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