Connector

Abstract

The invention provides a connector capable of improving connection reliability with a counterpart connector. The connector (10) has a terminal (20), a housing (30) for holding the terminal, a slider (60) housed inside the housing (30) and provided so as to be movable along a first axis (X) to a first position and a second position, and a spring (70) for biasing the slider (60). The spring (70) has: a pair of arms (71) extending toward a second axis (Y) intersecting the first axis (X); and a connecting part (75) connecting the pair of arms and contacting the slider (60). The connecting portion (75) extends along a third axis (Z) intersecting both the first axis (X) and the second axis (Y). The spring (70) urges the slider (60) toward the first position in a state where the connecting portion is in contact with the slider along the third axis (Z).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In the past, vehicles were equipped with connectors for controlling airbag inflators and the like, so-called ignition tube connectors (for example, see Patent Document 1). This connector includes a terminal, a housing for holding the terminal, a slider housed inside the housing, and a spring that applies force to the slider. The spring has a pair of action arms that push the slider and a torsion coil portion provided at each end of the pair of action arms. In the above-mentioned connector, the engagement of the connector and the mating connector is ensured by sliding the slider through the action of the spring. Specifically, when the connector and the mating connector are engaged, the slider moves rearward while receiving the reaction force of the spring. Furthermore, after the engagement of the connector and the mating connector is completed, the slider moves forward due to the reaction force of the spring. Specifically, the slider is pushed forward by the pair of action arms. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-21397 Summary of the Invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned connector, it is desired to further improve the connection reliability with the mating connector. An object of the present invention is to provide a connector capable of improving connection reliability with a mating connector. Solutions to Problems

[0005] The connector of the present invention comprises: a terminal; a shell for holding the terminal; a sliding member housed inside the shell and configured to be movable to a first position and a second position along a first axis; and a spring that applies force to the sliding member, wherein the spring has a pair of arms extending along a second axis intersecting the first axis and a connecting portion connecting the pair of arms and in contact with the sliding member, the connecting portion extending along a third axis intersecting both the first axis and the second axis, and the spring applies force to the sliding member toward the first position when the connecting portion is in contact with the sliding member along the third axis. Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the connector of the present invention, the connection reliability with the mating connector can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing a connector and a mating connector according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is a plan view showing a portion of a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a connector according to an embodiment ( Figure 3 4-4 line section view in the figure). Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a slider according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a connector according to an embodiment ( Figure 3 6-6 line section view in the figure). Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a connector and a mating connector according to one embodiment ( Figure 3 9-9 line section view in the figure). Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing a connector and a mating connector according to one embodiment. Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing a connector and a mating connector according to one embodiment. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing a connector and a mating connector according to one embodiment. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a connector according to one embodiment. Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing a spring according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] [Description of Embodiments of the Invention] First, embodiments of the present invention will be described below. [1] The connector of the present invention comprises: a terminal; a housing for holding the terminal; a sliding member housed in the housing and configured to be movable to a first position and a second position along a first axis; and a spring for applying force to the sliding member, wherein the spring has a pair of arms extending along a second axis intersecting the first axis and a connecting portion connecting the pair of arms and in contact with the sliding member, the connecting portion extending along a third axis intersecting both the first axis and the second axis, and the spring applies force to the sliding member toward the first position when the connecting portion is in contact with the sliding member along the third axis.

[0009] According to this structure, when the connecting portion connecting the pair of arms is in line contact with the slider along the third axis, the slider is urged toward the first position by the spring. This increases the contact area between the spring and the slider, particularly the contact area along the third axis, compared to a case where only the pair of arms are in contact with the slider. Therefore, when the slider is moved from the second position to the first position along the first axis using the force of the spring, the force can be applied to the slider in a balanced manner, enabling the slider to move in a balanced manner. Therefore, when the slider moves from the second position to the first position, tilting of the slider relative to the third axis can be appropriately suppressed, allowing the slider to move in a stable posture. As a result, the spring reaction force of the spring can be appropriately applied to the slider, allowing the spring and slider to properly ensure mating with the mating connector. If this mating guarantee functions properly, it can effectively prevent the occurrence of mating defects, such as the connector and the mating connector becoming partially mated. As a result, the connection reliability of the connector and the mating connector can be improved.

[0010] [2] The pair of arms may each include a first end connected to the connecting portion and a second end provided on the opposite side of the first end, and the spring may further include a folded portion folded back from the second end toward the first end.

[0011] According to this structure, the spring can be formed into a structure without providing a twisted coil shape at the second end of each arm. Thus, compared with the conventional structure in which a twisted coil shape is provided, the spring can be miniaturized.

[0012] [3] The spring may further include an extension portion extending from the folded portion along the third axis, and the extension portion may be in contact with the inner surface of the housing.

[0013] This structure increases the contact area between the spring and the inner surface of the housing by the amount of the extension. This contact between the spring and the inner surface of the housing appropriately limits the movement of the spring within the housing. Consequently, the spring's position within the housing can be appropriately maintained at a desired position.

[0014] [4] Alternatively, the pair of arms may include a rising portion rising from the connecting portion in a first inclined direction and a descending portion descending from an end of the rising portion in a second inclined direction intersecting the first inclined direction, wherein the rising portion inclines in a direction away from the sliding member as it moves away from the connecting portion.

[0015] According to this structure, each arm of the spring is formed to be bent into an inverted V shape. Thus, each arm can appropriately apply a biasing force to the slider. [5] Alternatively, the sliding member may include a mating ensuring portion for ensuring mating with the mating connector, the mating ensuring portion being a portion pressed by a mating ensuring portion on the mating side of the mating connector, and the connecting portion being provided at a position overlapping with the mating ensuring portion when viewed from above from the first axis.

[0016] According to this structure, when the connector and the other connector are mated, the mating ensuring portion of the slider is pressed by the mating ensuring portion on the other side. The connecting portion of the spring is arranged so as to overlap with the mating ensuring portion when viewed from above. Therefore, when the mating ensuring portion is pressed by the mating ensuring portion on the other side, the connecting portion makes linear contact with the slider along the third axis at a position overlapping with the mating ensuring portion. Therefore, when the mating ensuring portion is pressed by the mating ensuring portion on the other side, the connecting portion of the spring can be used to appropriately support the slider. As a result, when the slider moves from the first position to the second position in response to the pressure from the mating ensuring portion on the other side, the slider can be properly suppressed from tilting relative to the third axis, and the slider can be made movable in a stable posture.

[0017] [6] Alternatively, the housing may include a guide groove extending along the first axis, the sliding member may include a guide protrusion engaged with the guide groove and extending along the first axis, the guide protrusion may be formed to engage with the guide groove on the second axis, and the sliding member may be movable along the first axis when the guide protrusion is engaged with the guide groove.

[0018] With this structure, the slider moves along the first axis with the guide protrusion engaged with the guide groove. At this point, the guide protrusion engages with the guide groove along the second axis. Therefore, as the slider moves along the first axis, tilting of the slider relative to the second axis is adequately suppressed, allowing the slider to move in a stable posture.

[0019] [7] Alternatively, the sliding member may include a spring receiving portion for receiving the arm and the connecting portion, the spring receiving portion including a bottom surface and a wall portion protruding from the bottom surface, and the wall portion including a guide portion for guiding the spring into an internal space of the spring receiving portion.

[0020] According to this structure, when the spring is assembled into the housing, the spring can be smoothly inserted into the inner space of the spring receiving portion by moving the spring along the guide portion, thereby improving the assembly workability of the connector.

[0021] [8] Alternatively, the housing may include: a housing body having a terminal receiving portion for receiving the terminal; and a cover member assembled to the housing body, wherein the housing is formed into a cylindrical shape surrounding the outer periphery of the sliding member and the outer periphery of the terminal by combining the housing body and the cover member.

[0022] With this structure, the housing is formed into a cylindrical shape by the multiple components of the housing body and the cover member, surrounding the outer periphery of the slider and the outer periphery of the terminal. Although the housing is cylindrical, the multiple components allow the housing to be attached to the terminal, etc., after installation. This improves the ease of assembly between the terminal, etc., and the housing, and thus enhances the ease of connector assembly.

[0023] [Details of Embodiments of the Invention] Specific examples of the connector of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. For ease of explanation, portions of the structure may be exaggerated or simplified in the drawings. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios of various components may differ between the drawings. The terms "orthogonal" or "parallel" in this specification include not only strictly orthogonal or parallel but also approximately orthogonal or parallel within the scope of achieving the functional effects of the present embodiment. The term "cylindrical" as used in this specification includes not only a cylindrical shape with a continuous circumferential wall but also a shape formed by combining multiple components, or a shape with a notch in a portion of the circumference, such as a C-shaped or U-shaped shape. Furthermore, "cylindrical" shapes include, but are not limited to, circular, elliptical, and polygonal shapes with pointed or rounded corners. "Opposing" in this specification refers to surfaces or components facing each other, and includes not only completely facing each other but also partially facing each other. "Opposing" in this specification includes not only two components separated from each other but also contacting each other. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" in this specification are used only to distinguish objects and are not used to rank the objects. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to these examples but is defined by the claims, which are intended to encompass all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0024] (Overall Structure of Connector 10) like Figure 1As shown, connector 10 is configured to be matable with mating connector 200. Connector 10 is provided in a vehicle (not shown), such as a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle. Connector 10 is also used to control a vehicle's seatbelt pretensioner, airbag inflator, and the like, and is a so-called squib connector.

[0025] In each of the drawings, a first axis X, a second axis Y perpendicular to the first axis X, and a third axis Z perpendicular to both the first axis X and the second axis Y are illustrated. Furthermore, each of the drawings illustrates a front direction X1, which is one direction along the first axis X, and a rear direction X2, which is another direction along the first axis X, that is, in the opposite direction to the front direction X1. Here, the front direction X1 represents the front of the mating direction of the connector 10 relative to the mating connector 200. In each of the drawings, an upper direction Y1, which is one direction along the second axis Y, and a lower direction Y2, which is another direction along the second axis Y, that is, in the opposite direction to the upper direction Y1, are illustrated. In each of the drawings, a first width direction Z1, which is one direction along the third axis Z, and a second width direction Z2, which is another direction along the third axis Z, that is, in the opposite direction to the first width direction Z1, are illustrated. Furthermore, the directions in the drawings do not necessarily represent the postures of the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 during use. In addition, the description of the direction of the mating connector 200 is based on the state in which the mating connector 200 and the connector 10 are fitted together.

[0026] (Configuration of Mating Connector 200) The mating connector 200 includes a mating terminal 201 and a mating housing 202 that holds the mating terminal 201. The mating housing 202 includes a mating-side fitting cylinder 203 that fits with the housing 30 of the connector 10, and a mating-side fitting securing portion 204 that secures the mating of the connector 10 and the mating connector 200. The mating terminal 201 is disposed within the mating-side fitting cylinder 203. The mating-side fitting securing portion 204 is also disposed within the mating-side fitting cylinder 203.

[0027] (Configuration of Connector 10) like Figure 2 As shown, the connector 10 includes a terminal 20, a housing 30, a slider 60, a spring 70, and a ferrite core 80. The connector 10 of this embodiment includes two terminals 20.

[0028] (Configuration of Terminal 20) The two terminals 20 are arranged along the third axis Z. Each terminal 20 includes a wire connection portion 21 and a female terminal portion 22. The wire connection portion 21 extends along the second axis Y. The female terminal portion 22 extends along the first axis X. Each terminal 20 is formed into an L shape as a whole. Each terminal 20 is made of metal.

[0029] The wire connector 21 is connected to the wire 90. Here, the wire 90 is a covered wire having a core wire and an insulating sheath surrounding the core wire. The core wire is conductive. The wire connector 21 is connected to the end of the core wire of the wire 90. The wire connector 21 is connected to the core wire of the wire 90 by, for example, crimping, ultrasonic welding, or the like.

[0030] The female terminal portion 22 is connected to the upper end portion Y1 of the wire connecting portion 21. The female terminal portion 22 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the wire connecting portion 21. The female terminal portion 22 is formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0031] (Configuration of Housing 30) The housing 30 includes a housing body 31 and a cover member 50 formed to be assembled with the housing body 31. The housing body 31 is formed into a box shape with an opening at the rear X2. The cover member 50 is assembled to the housing body 31 to close the opening of the housing body 31. The housing body 31 and the cover member 50 are separate components. Both the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 are made of resin.

[0032] The housing 30 is formed into a cylindrical shape by combining the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 to surround the terminal 20, the slider 60 and the spring 70. In other words, the terminal 20, the slider 60 and the spring 70 are accommodated in the internal space of the housing 30 formed by the housing body 31 and the cover member 50.

[0033] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing body 31 has a base 32 and peripheral walls 33, 34, 35, and 36 protruding from the base 32 toward the rear X2. The housing body 31 has a terminal receiving portion 37 for receiving the terminal 20 and a ferrite receiving portion 38 for receiving the ferrite core 80. The housing body 31 has an assembly portion 40 for assembling the slider 60 and a spring receiving portion 45 for receiving the spring 70. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the housing body 31 of this embodiment has two spring receiving portions 45. Figure 3 In order to simplify the drawings, the cover member 50 is omitted from the illustration.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, the base 32 is formed into a flat plate shape. A peripheral wall 33 is provided at the upper end Y1 of the base 32. A peripheral wall 34 is provided at the lower end Y2 of the base 32. The peripheral walls 33 and 34 extend along the third axis Z. The peripheral wall 35 is provided at the end of the base 32 in the first width direction Z1. The peripheral wall 36 is provided at the end of the base 32 in the second width direction Z2. The peripheral walls 35 and 36 extend along the second axis Y.

[0035] The terminal 20 is inserted into the terminal receiving portion 37 along the front X1. The terminal receiving portion 37 is formed to hold two terminals 20 arranged along the third axis Z. like Figure 4 As shown, the terminal receiving portion 37 includes a cylindrical portion 37A that projects rearward (X2) from the base 32, and a cylindrical portion 37B that projects forward (X1) from the base 32. The interior spaces of the cylindrical portions 37A and 37B communicate with each other. The cylindrical portions 37A and 37B accommodate the female terminal portions 22 of the terminals 20.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, the terminal receiving portion 37 has a receiving groove 37C for receiving the wire connecting portion 21 of the terminal 20. The receiving groove 37C extends from the cylindrical portion 37A along the lower side Y2. The internal space of the receiving groove 37C communicates with the internal space of the cylindrical portion 37A.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the ferrite core 80 attached to the outer periphery of the electric wire 90 is inserted into the ferrite housing 38 along the front X1. The ferrite housing 38 extends downward Y2 from the housing groove 37C of the terminal housing 37. The interior space of the ferrite housing 38 communicates with the interior space of the housing groove 37C.

[0038] The slider 60 is mounted on the mounting portion 40 along the front X1. The mounting portion 40 holds the slider 60 so that it can move along the first axis X in the internal space of the housing 30. The mounting portion 40 includes a guide groove 41 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 37A, a through hole 42 (see FIG. 1 ) penetrating the base 32, and a guide groove 41 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 37A. Figure 4 ), and a cutout portion 43 provided on the peripheral walls 35 and 36.

[0039] The guide protrusion 69 of the slider 60 is inserted into the guide groove 41 along the front direction X1. The guide groove 41 extends along the first axis X. The guide groove 41 extends over the entire axial length of the cylindrical portion 37A.

[0040] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the through hole 42 is provided on the upper side Y1 relative to the cylindrical portion 37A. The fitting securing portion 68 of the slider 60 is inserted into the through hole 42 along the front side X1. like Figure 2 As shown, the peripheral walls 35 and 36 are provided with cutout portions 43. The cutout portions 43 are formed by cutting out the upper end portions Y1 of the peripheral walls 35 and 36.

[0041] The two spring receiving portions 45 are respectively provided at both ends of the third axis Z. The arms 71 of the spring 70 are inserted into the spring receiving portions 45 along the front X1. Figure 3As shown, the spring receiving portion 45 is formed in a groove shape extending along the second axis Y. The spring receiving portion 45 provided at the end portion in the first width direction Z1 is surrounded by the outer peripheral surface of the ferrite receiving portion 38, the peripheral wall 34, and the peripheral wall 35. The spring receiving portion 45 provided at the end portion in the second width direction Z2 is surrounded by the outer peripheral surface of the ferrite receiving portion 38, the peripheral wall 34, and the peripheral wall 36.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, the housing body 31 has a fitting cylindrical portion 46 that fits into the fitting cylindrical portion 203 of the counterpart housing 202. The fitting cylindrical portion 46 fits into the inner side of the fitting cylindrical portion 203 of the counterpart housing 202. Figure 2 As shown, the fitting cylindrical portion 46 protrudes from the base portion 32 toward the front X1.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the housing body 31 has engaging portions 47 provided on the peripheral walls 33, 35, and 36. The engaging portions 47 are engaging protrusions that protrude outward from the outer surfaces of the peripheral walls 33, 35, and 36. One engaging portion 47 is provided on the peripheral wall 33. Two engaging portions 47 are provided on each of the peripheral walls 35 and 36.

[0044] (Configuration of Cover Member 50) like Figure 1 As shown, the cover member 50 is assembled to the housing body 31. The cover member 50 is formed to be attachable to and detachable from the housing body 31. The cover member 50 includes a main body 51 and an engaging portion 52 protruding from the main body 51 toward the front X1. The cover member 50 of this embodiment has three engaging portions 52 corresponding to the engaging portions 47 of the housing body 31.

[0045] The main body 51 is formed in a flat plate shape and is formed so as to close the rear opening X2 of the case body 31 . Each engaging portion 52 protrudes from the main body 51 toward the housing body 31. Each engaging portion 52 is an elastic sheet that is elastically deformable. Each engaging portion 52 is formed as a frame. Each engaging portion 52 has an engaging hole 53 that engages with the engaging portion 47. The engaging portion 47 and the engaging hole 53 engage with each other through a snap-fit ​​method that utilizes the elastic deformation of the engaging portion 52. The engagement between the engaging portion 47 and the engaging hole 53 maintains the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 in a state of being integrated.

[0046] (Configuration of Slider 60) like Figure 5 As shown, the slider 60 includes a main body 61, a spring receiving portion 63, a fitting securing portion 68, and a guide protrusion 69. The slider 60 is a single component in which the main body 61, the spring receiving portion 63, the fitting securing portion 68, and the guide protrusion 69 are integrally formed. The slider 60 is made of resin.

[0047] like Figures 6 to 12 As shown, the slider 60 is housed inside the housing 30. The slider 60 can be moved along the first axis X to a first position (see Figure 6 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 and Figure 12 ) and the second position (refer to Figure 7 、 Figure 10 and Figure 11 ) is maintained by the shell body 31. Figure 6 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 and Figure 12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first position is a position where the main body 61 engages with the base 32 of the housing body 31 on the first axis X. Figure 7 、 Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the second position is a position in which the slider 60 is pressed toward the rear X2 by the mating housing 202. The second position is a position toward the rear X2 from the first position, specifically, a position closer to the cover member 50 than the first position.

[0048] like Figure 10 As shown, when the housing 30 and the mating housing 202 are mated, the mating securing portion 68 of the slider 60 is pressed toward the rear X2 by the mating securing portion 204. As a result, the slider 60 moves parallel to the first axis X from the first position to the second position while resisting the force of the spring 70 to compress the spring 70 on the first axis X. Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the slide 60 is in the second position and the mating securing portion 68 is further pressed by the mating securing portion 204 on the other side, the mating securing portion 68 elastically deforms to expand its opening, and the mating securing portion 204 on the other side enters the interior of the mating securing portion 68. As a result, the slide 60 is allowed to move forward X1. Furthermore, when the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 are properly mated, as shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown, the slider 60 is urged toward the first position by the spring 70 , and the slider 60 moves parallel to the first axis X from the second position to the first position.

[0049] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the main body 61 of the slider 60 has a through hole 62 that penetrates the main body 61 along the first axis X. The terminal receiving portion 37 of the housing body 31 is inserted into the through hole 62 .

[0050] The spring housing portion 63 is formed to accommodate a portion of the spring 70, specifically, a pair of arms 71 of the spring 70 and a connecting portion 75 connecting the pair of arms 71. The spring housing portion 63 has a U-shaped plan view when viewed from the front (X1). The spring housing portion 63 includes a bottom surface 64 and wall portions 65 and 66 that protrude from the bottom surface 64 toward the rear (X2). The bottom surface 64 is formed by the rear (X2) end surface of the main body 61. The interior space of the spring housing portion 63 is defined by the space enclosed by the bottom surface 64, the wall portions 65 and 66, and the peripheral wall 33 of the housing body 31.

[0051] The wall portion 65 is provided at the end portion in the first width direction Z1 and the end portion in the second width direction Z2 of the main body portion 61. The wall portion 65 extends linearly along the second axis Y. Figure 3 As shown, the wall portion 65 is housed inside the cutout portion 43 of the fitting portion 40 .

[0052] like Figure 13 As shown, the wall portion 66 is provided at the periphery of the through-hole 62. The wall portion 66 is formed along the periphery of the through-hole 62 and extends throughout the entire circumference of the through-hole 62. The planar shape of the wall portion 66, as viewed from the front (X1), is formed into a U-shape. The wall portion 66 includes, for example, a guide portion 67. The guide portion 67 is formed as an inclined surface that slopes toward the front (X1) as it moves from the protruding distal end surface of the wall portion 66 (i.e., the end surface at the rear (X2)) toward the interior space of the spring housing 63. The guide portion 67 has the function of guiding the spring 70 into the interior space of the spring housing 63.

[0053] like Figure 9 As shown, the mating ensuring portion 68 has two elastic pieces 68A. The two elastic pieces 68A are arranged in a manner opposite to each other on the third axis Z. Each elastic piece 68A extends from the main body 61 toward the front X1. Each elastic piece 68A is formed into a cantilever shape with a base end connected to the main body 61 as a fixed end and a terminal end on the side opposite to the base end as a free end. Each elastic piece 68A is configured to be able to bend toward the third axis Z by elastic deformation. When the shell 30 and the other shell 202 are mated, each elastic piece 68A is pressed toward the rear X2 by the mating ensuring portion 204 on the other side. The two elastic pieces 68A are configured to be able to bend in a direction of separation from each other by being pressed by the mating ensuring portion 204 on the other side.

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the slider 60 has two guide protrusions 69. The two guide protrusions 69 are arranged in a manner opposite to each other on the third axis Z. Each guide protrusion 69 extends along the first axis X. Each guide protrusion 69 is arranged on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 62. Figure 3As shown, each guide protrusion 69 is formed to fit within the guide groove 41 of the housing body 31. Each guide protrusion 69 is formed so as to engage with the guide groove 41 in both the upper direction Y1 and the lower direction Y2 when fitted with the guide groove 41. With each guide protrusion 69 fitted within the guide groove 41, the slider 60 can move along the first axis X between a first position and a second position.

[0055] (Configuration of Spring 70) like Figure 15 As shown, spring 70 is formed from a wire rod. Spring 70 is made of metal. It includes a pair of arms 71 and a connecting portion 75 connecting the pair of arms 71. Spring 70 includes a pair of folded portions 76 provided at the ends of each of the pair of arms 71, and a pair of extended portions 77 provided at the ends of each of the pair of folded portions 76. Spring 70 is a single member in which the arms 71, connecting portion 75, folded portions 76, and extended portions 77 are continuously and integrally formed. The spring 70 of this embodiment does not have a twisted coil shape.

[0056] A pair of arms 71 are provided so as to be opposed to each other on the third axis Z. Each arm 71 extends along the second axis Y as a whole. A connecting portion 75 is connected to the upper end Y1 of each arm 71. Each arm 71 is formed, for example, to bend into an inverted V shape when viewed from above from the third axis Z. Each arm 71 has a rising portion 72 rising from the connecting portion 75 toward the first inclined direction and a descending portion 73 descending from the end of the rising portion 72 (specifically, the end at the lower Y2) toward the second inclined direction intersecting the first inclined direction. As Figure 6 As shown, the rising portion 72 is formed to be inclined toward the cover member 50 (here, toward the rear X2) as it moves away from the connecting portion 75. The descending portion 73 is formed to be inclined toward the shell body 31 (here, toward the front X1) as it moves away from the rising portion 72. The upper end Y1 of the rising portion 72, that is, the upper end Y1 of the arm 71, contacts the slider 60. The lower end Y2 of the descending portion 73, that is, the lower end Y2 of the arm 71, contacts the shell body 31. As shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the rising portion 72 is housed in the spring housing portion 63 of the slider 60 . The descending portion 73 is housed in the spring housing portion 45 of the housing body 31 .

[0057] like Figure 15 As shown, the connecting portion 75 connects the ends of the upper Y1 of the pair of arms 71. The connecting portion 75 extends continuously from the end of the upper Y1 of one arm 71 to the end of the upper Y1 of the other arm 71. The connecting portion 75 extends along the third axis Z. Figure 9As shown, the connecting portion 75 is housed in the spring housing portion 63 of the slider 60. Specifically, the connecting portion 75 is housed in the portion of the spring housing portion 63 that overlaps with the fitting securing portion 68 along the first axis X. The connecting portion 75 contacts the bottom surface 64 of the spring housing portion 63. The connecting portion 75 contacts the bottom surface 64 linearly along the third axis Z. In other words, the connecting portion 75 is in linear contact with the bottom surface 64.

[0058] like Figure 15 As shown, a pair of folded portions 76 are provided so as to face each other on the third axis Z. Each folded portion 76 is formed so as to fold back from the end portion at the lower side Y2 of each arm 71 toward the end portion at the upper side Y1 of each arm 71. Figure 6 As shown, each folded portion 76 is formed so as to fold back in a direction away from the base portion 32 of the housing body 31 (here, the rear direction X2). Each folded portion 76 folds back in a U-shape from the end portion at the lower side Y2 of each arm 71. Each folded portion 76 is provided so as to be in contact with the inner surface of the cover member 50, that is, the end surface at the front side X1 of the main body 51.

[0059] like Figure 15 As shown, each extension portion 77 extends from the end of each folded portion 76 (here, the end at the upper Y1) toward the other arm 71. Each extension portion 77 extends along the third axis Z. The pair of extension portions 77 are provided separately from each other. In other words, a gap is provided between the pair of extension portions 77. Each extension portion 77 is provided so as to be able to be aligned with the cover member 50 (see Figure 4 )’s inner surface contacts.

[0060] (Configuration of Ferrite Core 80) like Figure 2 As shown, the ferrite core 80 is attached to the outer periphery of the electric wire 90. The ferrite core 80 is formed so as to surround the outer periphery of the electric wire 90. The electric wire 90 is formed so as to penetrate the ferrite core 80 along the second axis Y. The ferrite core 80 is housed in the ferrite housing portion 38 of the case body 31.

[0061] (Manufacturing Method of Connector 10) Next, a method for manufacturing the connector 10 will be described. like Figure 3 As shown, first, the slider 60 is mounted on the mounting portion 40 of the housing body 31. Specifically, with the guide protrusion 69 engaged with the guide groove 41 and the wall portion 65 positioned within the notch 43, the slider 60 is slid along the front direction X1 to the first position. At this point, the slider 60 slides along the front direction X1 with the guide protrusion 69 guided by the guide groove 41.

[0062] Next, the terminal 20 , the electric wire 90 connected to the terminal 20 , and the ferrite core 80 attached to the outer periphery of the electric wire 90 are inserted into the terminal receiving portion 37 and the ferrite receiving portion 38 of the housing body 31 along the front direction X1 .

[0063] Next, the spring 70 is assembled to the housing body 31 and the slider 60. Specifically, the spring 70 is assembled to the housing body 31 so that the lower end Y2 of each arm 71 of the spring 70 is accommodated in each spring receiving portion 45 of the housing body 31. At this time, the connecting portion 75 of the spring 70 may not be accommodated in the spring receiving portion 63 of the slider 60. For example, the connecting portion 75 may slide onto the end surface of the wall portion 66 or the guide portion 67 (see Figure 13 ).

[0064] Then, if Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cover member 50 is mounted on the housing body 31. The spring 70 is pressed toward the front X1 by the cover member 50. Figure 14 As shown, the connection portion 75 of the spring 70 and the rising portion 72 of each arm 71 are guided to the inner space of the spring housing portion 63 along the guide portion 67. As a result, the spring 70 can be properly housed in the spring housing portion 63 of the slider 60.

[0065] Through the above steps, the connector 10 can be manufactured. (Method of Mating Connector 10 and Mating Connector 200) Next, a method of fitting the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 will be described.

[0066] First, if Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the connector 10 is prepared, and the counterpart connector 200 is prepared. Figure 9 As shown, the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 are arranged so that the fitting cylinder 46 and the mating fitting cylinder 203 face each other. At this time, the slider 60 is arranged in the first position, and the fitting securing portion 68 of the slider 60 and the mating securing portion 204 of the mating connector 200 face each other.

[0067] Then, if Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 begin to mate, the rear end surface X2 of the mating securing portion 204 on the mating side contacts the front end surface X1 of the mating securing portion 68. As the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 further mate, the mating securing portion 68 is pressed toward the rear X2 by the mating securing portion 204 on the mating side. Figure 7 As shown, the slider 60 compresses the spring 70 on the first axis X while moving from the first position to the second position along the first axis X. Figure 14As shown, when the guide protrusion 69 is engaged with the guide groove 41, the slider 60 slides from the first position to the second position along the first axis X. Thus, when the guide protrusion 69 is engaged with the guide groove 41 on the second axis Y, the slider 60 slides along the first axis X, thereby suppressing the slider 60 from tilting relative to the second axis Y. Figure 10 As shown, the connecting portion 75 of the spring 70 is provided so as to overlap with the fitting securing portion 68, which is the portion pressed by the mating fitting securing portion 204, on the first axis X. Since the connecting portion 75 contacts the slider 60 along the third axis Z, the slider 60 is prevented from tilting relative to the third axis Z when the slider 60 slides along the first axis X.

[0068] Then, if Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the slide 60 is in the second position, the mating securing portion 68 is further pressed toward the rear X2 by the mating securing portion 204 on the other side, and the pair of elastic pieces 68A of the mating securing portion 68 are elastically deformed in a manner of separating from each other. As a result, the mating securing portion 204 on the other side enters between the pair of elastic pieces 68A. As a result, the slide 60 is allowed to move toward the front X1. Then, when the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 are properly mated, as shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown, the slider 60 is urged toward the first position by the reaction force of the spring 70, and the slider 60 moves parallel to the first axis X from the second position to the first position. At this time, the spring 70 presses the slider 60 toward the front X1 using the connecting portion 75 that is in line contact with the slider 60 along the third axis Z. Therefore, when the slider 60 slides from the second position to the first position along the first axis X, it is possible to suppress the slider 60 from tilting relative to the third axis Z. In this way, when the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 are properly mated, the slider 60 is configured in the first position with the mating securing portion 204 on the mating side entirely retracted within the mating securing portion 68. In addition, if the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 cannot be properly mated, for example, the reaction force of the spring 70 is used to push the connector 10 back toward the rear X2.

[0069] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) The connector 10 includes a terminal 20, a housing 30 that holds the terminal 20, a slider 60 that is housed within the housing 30 and is configured to be movable along a first axis X between a first position and a second position, and a spring 70 that urges the slider 60. The spring 70 includes a pair of arms 71 that extend toward a second axis Y that intersects the first axis X, and a connecting portion 75 that connects the pair of arms 71 and contacts the slider 60. The connecting portion 75 extends along a third axis Z that intersects both the first axis X and the second axis Y. When the connecting portion 75 contacts the slider 60 along the third axis Z, the spring 70 urges the slider 60 toward the first position.

[0070] According to this structure, while the connecting portion 75 connecting the pair of arms 71 is in line contact with the slider 60 along the third axis Z, the slider 60 is biased toward the first position by the spring 70. This increases the contact area between the spring 70 and the slider 60, particularly along the third axis Z, compared to a case where only the pair of arms 71 are in contact with the slider 60. Therefore, when the slider 60 is moved from the second position to the first position along the first axis X by the biasing force of the spring 70, the biasing force is applied to the slider 60 in a balanced manner, enabling the slider 60 to move in a balanced manner. Therefore, when the slider 60 moves from the second position to the first position, tilting of the slider 60 relative to the third axis Z is appropriately suppressed, allowing the slider 60 to move in a stable posture. As a result, the spring reaction force of the spring 70 is appropriately applied to the slider 60, ensuring proper mating with the mating connector 200 using the spring 70 and the slider 60. If this mating function is properly guaranteed, if connector 10 and mating connector 200 cannot be properly mated, the reaction force of spring 70 pushes connector 10 back toward the rear X2. This effectively prevents the occurrence of mating failures such as a partially mated state between connector 10 and mating connector 200. As a result, the connection reliability between connector 10 and mating connector 200 is improved.

[0071] (2) The pair of arms 71 each have a first end (here, the upper end Y1) connected to the connecting portion 75 and a second end (here, the lower end Y2) located opposite the first end. The spring 70 has a folded portion 76 that folds back from the second end toward the first end.

[0072] According to this structure, the spring 70 can be formed into a structure without providing a twisted coil shape at the second end of each arm 71. Therefore, compared with the conventional structure provided with a twisted coil shape, the spring 70 can be miniaturized.

[0073] (3) Since the spring 70 can be miniaturized, the size of the ferrite core 80 can be increased. In this case, the noise elimination performance in the connector 10 can be improved.

[0074] (4) The spring 70 further includes the extension portion 77 extending from the folded portion 76 along the third axis Z. The extension portion 77 can contact the inner surface of the housing 30 , specifically, the front X1 end surface of the main body 51 of the cover member 50 .

[0075] According to this structure, the contact area between the spring 70 and the inner surface of the housing 30 can be increased by the amount of the extension portion 77. The contact between the spring 70 and the inner surface of the housing 30 can appropriately restrict the movement of the spring 70 inside the housing 30. Therefore, the posture of the spring 70 inside the housing 30 can be appropriately maintained at a desired posture.

[0076] (5) The pair of arms 71 each includes a rising portion 72 that rises from the connection portion 75 in a first oblique direction, and a descending portion 73 that descends from the end of the rising portion 72 in a second oblique direction intersecting the first oblique direction. The rising portion 72 inclines away from the connection portion 75 as it moves away from the slider 60.

[0077] According to this structure, each arm 71 of the spring 70 is formed so as to be bent into an inverted V shape. Thus, each arm 71 can appropriately apply a biasing force to the slider 60.

[0078] (6) The slider 60 includes a fitting securing portion 68 that secures fitting with the mating connector 200. The fitting securing portion 68 is a portion pressed by the mating fitting securing portion 204 of the mating connector 200. The connecting portion 75 is provided at a position overlapping the fitting securing portion 68 when viewed from above along the first axis X.

[0079] According to this structure, when the connector 10 and the mating connector 200 are mated, the mating ensuring portion 68 of the slider 60 is pressed by the mating ensuring portion 204 of the mating side. The connecting portion 75 of the spring 70 is arranged so as to overlap with the mating ensuring portion 68 when viewed from above. Therefore, when the mating ensuring portion 68 is pressed by the mating ensuring portion 204 of the mating side, the connecting portion 75 makes line contact with the slider 60 along the third axis Z at a position overlapping with the mating ensuring portion 68. Therefore, when the mating ensuring portion 68 is pressed by the mating ensuring portion 204 of the mating side, the slider 60 can be properly supported by the connecting portion 75 of the spring 70. As a result, when the slider 60 moves from the first position to the second position in response to the pressure from the mating ensuring portion 204 of the mating side, the slider 60 can be appropriately suppressed from tilting relative to the third axis Z, and the slider 60 can be moved in a stable posture.

[0080] (7) The housing 30 includes a guide groove 41 extending along the first axis X. The slider 60 includes a guide protrusion 69 that engages with the guide groove 41 and extends along the first axis X. The guide protrusion 69 is formed so as to be engageable with the guide groove 41 on the second axis Y. When the guide protrusion 69 is engaged with the guide groove 41, the slider 60 can move along the first axis X.

[0081] With this structure, the slider 60 moves along the first axis X with the guide protrusion 69 engaged with the guide groove 41. At this time, the guide protrusion 69 engages with the guide groove 41 along the second axis Y. Therefore, when the slider 60 moves along the first axis X, tilting of the slider 60 relative to the second axis Y is adequately suppressed, allowing the slider 60 to move in a stable posture.

[0082] (8) The slider 60 includes the spring housing portion 63 that houses the arm 71 and the connection portion 75. The spring housing portion 63 includes a bottom surface 64 and walls 65 and 66 that protrude from the bottom surface 64. The wall portion 66 includes a guide portion 67 that guides the spring 70 into the inner space of the spring housing portion 63.

[0083] According to this structure, when the spring 70 is assembled to the housing 30, the spring 70 can be smoothly inserted into the internal space of the spring receiving portion 63 by moving the spring 70 along the guide portion 67. This improves the assembly workability of the connector 10.

[0084] (9) Since the spring 70 can be inserted into the inner space of the spring housing portion 63 along the guide portion 67 , the spring 70 can be appropriately installed at a regular position, that is, in the inner space of the spring housing portion 63 .

[0085] (10) The housing 30 includes a housing body 31 and a cover member 50 mounted on the housing body 31. The housing body 31 includes a terminal receiving portion 37 for receiving the terminal 20. The housing 30 is formed into a cylindrical shape that surrounds the outer periphery of the slider 60 and the outer periphery of the terminal 20 by combining the housing body 31 and the cover member 50.

[0086] According to this structure, the housing 30 is formed into a cylindrical shape by the multiple components of the housing body 31 and the cover member 50, which surrounds the outer periphery of the slider 60 and the outer periphery of the terminal 20. Thus, although the housing 30 is cylindrical, the housing 30 is divided into multiple components, and the housing 30 can be attached to the terminal 20 and the like. Therefore, the assembly of the terminal 20 and the like with the housing 30 can be improved, and the assembly workability of the connector 10 can be improved.

[0087] (Variation) The above embodiment can be implemented as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be implemented in combination with each other within the scope of no technical contradiction.

[0088] The structure of the spring 70 in the above embodiment may be modified as appropriate. The extension portion 77 of the spring 70 may be omitted. The structure of each arm 71 may be modified. For example, the rising portion 72 and the descending portion 73 may be omitted, and each arm 71 may be formed to extend linearly along the second axis Y.

[0089] The structure of the slider 60 in the above embodiment may be modified as appropriate. The guide portion 67 may be omitted from the wall portion 66 of the spring housing portion 63 . The guide protrusion 69 of the slider 60 may be omitted.

[0090] The structure of the fitting ensuring portion 68 may be modified as appropriate. The structure of the housing 30 in the above-described embodiment may be modified as appropriate. The engagement structure between the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 may be modified as appropriate.

[0091] In the housing 30 of the above embodiment, the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 are formed of separate components, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 may be integrally formed via a hinge or the like.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the housing 30 is composed of two divided bodies, namely, the housing body 31 and the cover member 50 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the housing 30 may be composed of three or more divided bodies.

[0093] The structure of the housing body 31 may be modified as appropriate. The guide groove 41 may be omitted. The cutout portion 43 may be omitted. The ferrite core 80 in the above embodiment may be omitted.

[0094] The structure of the terminal 20 in the above embodiment may be modified as appropriate. The terminal 20 may be modified to have a structure in which the wire connecting portion 21 and the female terminal portion 22 are arranged in a straight line. The embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Description of Reference Numerals

[0095] 10 Connectors 20 terminals 21 Wire connection 22 Female terminal 30 Shell 31 Shell body 32 base 33, 34, 35, 36 surrounding walls 37 Terminal storage area 37A, 37B cylindrical part 37C Storage Slot 38 Ferrite storage area 40 Assembly Department 41 guide groove 42 through holes 43 incision 45 Spring storage part 46 fitting cylinder 47 snap-fit ​​portion 50 Cover member 51 Main body 52 snap-fit ​​portion 53 snap-in hole 60 Slide 61 Main body 62 through holes 63 Spring storage unit 64 Bottom 65 Wall 66 Wall 67 Guidance Department 68 Fitting Assurance Department 68A elastic sheet 69 guide protrusion 70 Spring 71 Arm 72 ascending part 73 descending part 75 connection 76 Turnback 77 Extension 80 ferrite core 90 Wire 200 other connector 201 other terminal 202 other shell 203 Mating cylinder on the other side 204 Mating securing portion on the other side X 1st axis X1 front X2 rear Y 2nd axis Above Y1 Below Y2 Z 3rd axis Z1 1st width direction Z2 2nd width direction

Claims

1. A connector comprising: terminal; a housing for holding the terminals; a sliding member housed in the housing and configured to be movable along a first axis to a first position and a second position; and A spring applies force to the sliding member, wherein The spring includes a pair of arms extending along a second axis intersecting the first axis and a connecting portion connecting the pair of arms and in contact with the slider. The connecting portion extends along a third axis that intersects both the first axis and the second axis. The spring urges the slider toward the first position when the connecting portion is in contact with the slider along the third axis.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein The pair of arms each have a first end connected to the connection portion and a second end provided on the opposite side of the first end. The spring further includes a folded portion folded back from the second end portion toward the first end portion.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: The spring further includes an extension portion extending from the folded portion along the third axis. The extension portion is capable of contacting an inner surface of the housing.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein The pair of arms each include a rising portion rising from the connecting portion in a first oblique direction and a descending portion descending from an end of the rising portion in a second oblique direction intersecting the first oblique direction. The rising portion is inclined in a direction away from the slider as it moves away from the connecting portion.

5. The connector according to claim 1, wherein The sliding member has a fitting ensuring portion for ensuring fitting with the mating connector. The mating securing portion is a portion pressed by a mating securing portion of the mating connector. The connecting portion is provided at a position overlapping with the fitting ensuring portion in a plan view from the first axis. The connector according to claim 1 , wherein: The housing has a guide groove extending along the first axis. The sliding member has a guide protrusion that fits into the guide groove and extends along the first axis. The guide protrusion is formed to be engageable with the guide groove on the second axis. The slider is movable along the first axis in a state in which the guide protrusion is engaged with the guide groove.

7. The connector according to claim 1, wherein The slider has a spring receiving portion for receiving the arm and the connecting portion. The spring housing portion has a bottom surface and a wall portion protruding from the bottom surface, The wall portion has a guide portion for guiding the spring into the inner space of the spring housing portion.

8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein The housing includes a housing body having a terminal receiving portion for receiving the terminal and a cover member mounted on the housing body. The housing is formed into a cylindrical shape surrounding the outer periphery of the slider and the outer periphery of the terminal by combining the housing body and the cover member.

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