Connector

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to disperse the force of an electric wire pressing against the edge of an outlet opening of a chamber to a large extent as much as possible. A connector according to the present disclosure holds a terminal via a terminal holder, the connector being provided with: a terminal-equipped electric wire having an electric wire and a terminal attached to an end portion of the electric wire; a terminal holder having a chamber in which the terminal is accommodated; and a housing having a holder holding portion that holds the terminal holder and a wire guide portion that guides the wire extending from the holder holding portion. The terminal holder has an outlet opening edge portion through which the electric wire extends from the chamber, and the outlet opening edge portion has a convex curved surface curved from the inner peripheral surface of the chamber in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a connector having a socket connector, wherein the socket connector has a socket housing and a plurality of socket terminals. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 discloses that socket terminals fixed to a linear conductor are inserted into terminal mounting holes in the socket housing. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-220184 Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] It is assumed that the linear conductor extending from the socket housing will be pulled in a direction intersecting the axis of the terminal mounting hole. In this case, the linear conductor is pressed against the opening edge of the terminal mounting hole. Under such circumstances, it is desirable to distribute the force acting on the linear conductor over as wide a range as possible.

[0005] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to distribute the force that presses the wire against the edge of the outlet opening of the chamber as widely as possible. Solution for solving the problem

[0006] The connector disclosed herein retains terminals via a terminal retainer, wherein the connector comprises: a wire with a terminal, having a wire and the terminal mounted at the end of the wire; the terminal retainer having a chamber for receiving the terminal; and a housing having a retainer retaining portion for retaining the terminal retainer and a wire guiding portion for guiding the wire extending from the retainer retaining portion, the terminal retainer having an outlet opening edge for the wire to extend from the chamber, the outlet opening edge having a convex curved surface that is curved from the inner peripheral surface of the chamber toward a direction intersecting the extending direction of the chamber. Invention Effects

[0007] According to this disclosure, the force exerted by the wire pressing against the edge of the outlet opening of the chamber can be distributed over a wide range as much as possible. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the connector according to embodiment 1. Figure 2 This is a 3D view of the connector. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the connector. Figure 4This is an exploded perspective view of the connector. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 V-V line sectional view. Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the terminal module. Figure 7 It is a partial sectional three-dimensional view of the shell. Figure 8 It is a partial sectional three-dimensional view of the shell. Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line IX-IX. Figure 10 This is a 3D diagram showing a connector that is different from a connector. Figure 11 This is an exploded 3D view of the connector. Figure 12 yes Figure 10 Sectional view along line XII-XII. Figure 13 This is a rear view showing the terminal retainer. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the IVX-IVX line. Figure 15 yes Figure 13 XV-XV line sectional view. Figure 16 yes Figure 13 XVI-XVI line sectional view. Detailed Implementation

[0009] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure] The embodiments of this disclosure are first described by listing them.

[0010] The connector disclosed herein is shown below.

[0011] (1) A connector holds a terminal via a terminal retainer, wherein the connector comprises: a wire with a terminal, having a wire and the terminal mounted at the end of the wire; the terminal retainer having a cavity for receiving the terminal; and a housing having a retainer retaining portion for retaining the terminal retainer and a wire guiding portion for guiding the wire extending from the retainer retaining portion, the terminal retainer having an outlet opening edge for extending the wire from the cavity, the outlet opening edge having a convex curved surface that is curved from the inner peripheral surface of the cavity toward a direction intersecting the extending direction of the cavity.

[0012] According to this connector, when the wire is pulled, it can press against the convex curved surface in the outlet opening edge. Since the convex curved surface can be used to increase the contact area between the wire and the outlet opening edge, the force of the wire pressing against the outlet opening edge of the chamber can be distributed over a large area as much as possible.

[0013] (2) Based on the connector in (1), the convex surface may be bent with a radius of curvature greater than the allowable bending radius of the wire.

[0014] Therefore, it is difficult for the wire to bend with a radius of curvature smaller than the allowable bending radius.

[0015] (3) Based on the connector in (1) or (2), the chamber may include a first chamber and a second chamber arranged in parallel, the outlet opening edge includes a first outlet opening edge and a second outlet opening edge corresponding to the first chamber and the second chamber respectively, the terminal retainer also has a partition wall separating the first chamber and the second chamber, the partition wall has an outlet-side partition edge located between the first outlet opening edge and the second outlet opening edge, the portion of the outlet-side partition edge on the side of the first outlet opening edge is formed with the convex surface, the convex surface having a larger radius of curvature than the portion of the outlet-side partition edge on the side of the second outlet opening edge.

[0016] If we assume that we are attempting to form convex surfaces on both sides of the first and second outlet opening edges in the outlet opening edge portion, then we need to either reduce the area of ​​each convex surface or thicken the partition wall. If we reduce the area of ​​each convex surface, the force distribution range becomes narrower. If we thicken the partition wall, it will lead to a larger connector. Therefore, considering the lead-out direction of the wire, when the wire extending from the first outlet opening edge is guided toward the first outlet opening edge side, a convex surface is formed on the portion of the outlet-side partition edge portion toward the first outlet opening edge. This can suppress the increase in connector size while distributing the force of the wire pressing against the outlet-side partition edge of the chamber as widely as possible.

[0017] (4) Based on any of the connectors in (1) to (3), the terminal retainer may have a thick-walled forming portion that causes a portion of the outlet opening edge in the cavity to protrude into the cavity, and the convex surface is a curved surface from the thick-walled forming portion toward a direction intersecting the extension direction of the cavity.

[0018] In this case, since the convex surface is a curved surface on the guiding direction side from the thick-walled forming part toward the wire guiding part, it is easy to increase the size of the convex surface.

[0019] (5) Based on the connector in (4), the thick-walled forming portion may be formed in the cavity in a region closer to the outlet opening edge than the region where the terminal is disposed.

[0020] The area within the chamber closer to the outlet opening edge than the area where the terminals are disposed is the area through which the power supply line passes. Compared to the portion of the terminal that connects to the wire, the wire is more likely to be thinner. Therefore, if a thick-walled portion is formed in the area within the chamber closer to the outlet opening edge than the area where the terminals are disposed, it is less likely to result in a larger terminal holder.

[0021] (6) Based on any of the connectors in (1) to (5), the terminal retainer may have a base retainer and an intermediate retainer that overlaps with the base retainer, wherein the base retainer and the intermediate retainer are respectively formed with the cavity and the outlet opening edge, and in the extending direction of the cavity, the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer is offset relative to the outlet opening edge of the base retainer.

[0022] In this case, since the positions where the wires extend from the base holder and the positions where the wires extend from the intermediate holder are offset in the direction of the cavity's extension, these wires are less likely to interfere. Therefore, it is easy to stably press the wires extending from the base holder against the convex surface of the base holder, and it is easy to stably press the wires extending from the intermediate holder against the convex surface of the intermediate holder.

[0023] (7) Based on the connector in (6), it is also possible that, in the extension direction of the chamber, the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer is located on the outer side of the outlet opening edge of the base retainer, the convex surface is formed on the side opposite to the intermediate retainer in the outlet opening edge of the base retainer, and the convex surface is formed on the base retainer side in the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer.

[0024] Therefore, when the wires are guided in the same direction as the direction from the intermediate retainer toward the base retainer, the wires extending from the intermediate retainer and the base retainer respectively can be stably pressed against the convex surface while avoiding interference.

[0025] (8) Based on the connector of (6) or (7), the convex surface may be formed on the side where the outlet opening edge of the base retainer and the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer intersect the direction of the extension direction of the chamber and the direction in which the base retainer and the intermediate retainer coincide.

[0026] Therefore, when the wire is guided to the direction that intersects the extension direction of the cavity and the overlapping direction, the wires extending from the intermediate retainer and the base retainer can be stably pressed against the convex surface while avoiding interference.

[0027] (9) Based on any of the connectors in (1) to (8), the convex surface may have a first convex surface and a second convex surface, wherein the first convex surface and the second convex surface are formed at different positions in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge.

[0028] In this case, regardless of whether the wire is led out towards the first convex surface or the second convex surface, the force exerted by the wire against the outlet opening edge of the chamber can be distributed over a wide range as much as possible. Therefore, even if the terminal holder is held in either of the housings in different guiding directions, the force exerted by the wire against the outlet opening edge of the chamber can be distributed over a wide range as much as possible.

[0029] (10) Based on the connector in (9), the first convex surface and the second convex surface may be connected in an arc shape when viewed from the edge of the outlet opening along the extension direction of the chamber.

[0030] Therefore, the wire can make contact with a larger contact area relative to the portion where the first and second convex surfaces connect. Consequently, the force exerted by the wire against the outlet opening edge of the chamber can be distributed over a wider area.

[0031] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure] Hereinafter, specific examples of the connectors of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0032] [Implementation Method] The connector of the embodiment will be described below.

[0033] <Overall Structure> The overall structure of the connector is described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of connector 20. Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of connector 20. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 V-V line sectional view.

[0034] Connector 20 is a connector that holds terminal 12 via terminal retainer 32. Details regarding terminal 12 and terminal retainer 32 will be provided later. Figure 6The following will be explained. By connecting the other side connector to the connector 20, the other side terminal of the other side connector is connected to the terminal 12.

[0035] The connector 20 includes a wire 11 with terminals, a terminal retainer 32, and a housing 50.

[0036] The wire 11 with terminals has a wire 16 and a terminal 12 mounted on the end of the wire 16.

[0037] Terminal 12 is housed in terminal holder 32. Terminal module 30 is formed by terminal 12 and terminal holder 32 housing terminal 12. Wire 16 extends outward from terminal holder 32. Terminal 12 is installed in housing 50 in the terminal module 30.

[0038] The housing 50 holds the terminal 12 via the terminal retainer 32. The housing 50 has a retainer holding portion 60 and a wire guide portion 52. The terminal retainer 32 is housed in the retainer holding portion 60. The wire guide portion 52 is integrally connected to the retainer holding portion 60 and guides the wire 16 extending from the retainer holding portion 60. The wire guide portion 52 guides the extension direction of the wire 16 from the connector 20.

[0039] Additionally, a stop 90 is fitted to the aforementioned retaining part 60. The stop 90 holds the terminal module 30 in place to prevent it from detaching from the housing 50. In this embodiment, the stop 90 is fitted to the housing 50 from the side opposite to the direction in which the wire 16 is led out from the terminal module 30. Such a stop 90 may also be referred to as a front stop.

[0040] For this connector 20, the other-side connector is connected from the side opposite to the direction in which the wire 16 is led out from the terminal module 30. In the following description, for convenience, the side connected to the other-side connector is sometimes referred to as the front side, and the opposite side as the rear side. Additionally, a locking piece 68a for maintaining the connection with the other-side connector is located in the housing 50. For convenience, the side of the locking piece 68a relative to the housing 50 is sometimes referred to as the upper side, and the opposite side as the lower side. Furthermore, the aforementioned front / back and upper / lower directions are sometimes used as a reference.

[0041] The structure of each part is explained.

[0042] <About Terminal Modules> Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of terminal module 30. (For example...) Figures 3-6As shown, the terminal module 30 includes a terminal 12 and a terminal retainer 32 for holding the terminal 12. The terminal 12 is a component formed by stamping or other processes of a metal sheet, and includes a wire connection portion 12a and a terminal connection portion 12b. The wire connection portion 12a and the terminal connection portion 12b are connected, for example, in a straight line. The wire connection portion 12a at one end of the terminal 12 is connected to the end of the wire 16 by crimping or the like. The terminal connection portion 12b is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and a pin-shaped or tab-shaped male connection portion of the opposite terminal is inserted into the terminal connection portion 12b for connection.

[0043] In this embodiment, the terminal module 30 includes a plurality of terminals 12. More specifically, the terminal module 30 includes four terminals 12. The four terminals 12 are arranged in a two-by-two configuration. A plurality of wires 16 extend from the rear end of the terminal module 30. The number of terminals 12 held by the terminal module 30 is arbitrary; it may include only one terminal or more terminals.

[0044] The terminal holder 32 is a resin component used to hold the terminals 12. The terminal holder 32 holds the plurality of terminals 12 in a predetermined arrangement while they are insulated from each other. With the plurality of terminals 12 held by the terminal holder 32, the terminal holder 32 is held in the housing 50. Thus, the plurality of terminals 12 can be easily held in a predetermined arrangement within the housing 50.

[0045] More specifically, the terminal retainer 32 includes a base retainer 34, an intermediate retainer 36, and a cover retainer 38.

[0046] The base retainer 34 has multiple (here, two) chambers 34g1 and 34g2. The chambers 34g1 and 34g2 are arranged side-by-side and open upwards and rearwards. A front wall 34FW is erected at the leading edge of the base retainer 34. Terminals 12 are disposed within the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 through the openings above and rearwards. Chamber 34g1 is an example of a first chamber, and chamber 34g2 is an example of a second chamber. More chambers may also be formed in the base retainer 34.

[0047] The base retainer 34 includes a partition wall 34W and a pair of side walls 34SW. The partition wall 34W is the wall that separates the first chamber 34g1 from the second chamber 34g2. The pair of side walls 34SW are the walls that separate the outer sides of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2.

[0048] Positioning protrusions 34gp protrude from the bottom of chambers 34g1 and 34g2. Terminal 12 has a recess 12g that is recessed between the crimping portion of the wire-covering portion in the wire connection portion 12a and the terminal connection portion 12b. By inserting the positioning protrusion 34gp into the recess 12g of terminal 12, terminal 12 is positioned within the positioning protrusion 34gp.

[0049] The intermediate retainer 36 is a component with a breadth of width capable of closing the upper openings of multiple chambers 34g1, 34g2. The intermediate retainer 36 has a locking piece 36p capable of engaging with the locking protrusion 34r1 of the base retainer 34.

[0050] With the intermediate retainer 36 blocking the upper openings of the multiple chambers 34g1, 34g2, the locking tab 36p engages with the locking protrusions 34r1 on both sides of the base retainer 34, thereby holding the intermediate retainer 36 in an overlapping state relative to the base retainer 34. In this state, the upward movement of the terminals 12 within the chambers 34g1, 34g2 is restricted, and the aforementioned positioning protrusions 34gp are maintained in the state of being embedded in the recesses 12g.

[0051] The intermediate retainer 36 has a plurality of (two in this case) chambers 36g1, 36g2 located on the side opposite to the base retainer 34. The chambers 36g1, 36g2 are arranged side-by-side and open upwards and rearwards. When the intermediate retainer 36 and the base retainer 34 are engaged, the front wall 34FW of the base retainer 34 is positioned forward of the front openings of the chambers 36g1, 36g2. Terminals 12 are disposed within the chambers 36g1, 36g2 through the upper and rear openings.

[0052] Chamber 36g1 is an example of a first chamber, and chamber 36g2 is an example of a second chamber. More chambers may also be formed in the base retainer 34.

[0053] The intermediate retainer 36 includes a partition wall 36W and a pair of side walls 36SW. The partition wall 36W is the wall that separates the first chamber 36g1 from the second chamber 36g2. The pair of side walls 36SW are the walls that separate the outer sides of the chambers 36g1 and 36g2.

[0054] A positioning protrusion 36gp protrudes from the bottom of chambers 36g1 and 36g2. The positioning protrusion 36gp is inserted into the recess 12g of terminal 12, thereby positioning terminal 12 within the positioning protrusion 36gp.

[0055] If the terminal retainer 32 has multiple intermediate retainers 36, the terminal retainer 32 can hold the terminal 12 in three or more layers in the longitudinal direction.

[0056] The cover retainer 38 is a component with a wide range of widths capable of closing the upper openings of multiple chambers 36g1, 36g2. The cover retainer 38 has a locking tab 38p that can engage with the locking protrusion 34r2 of the base retainer 34.

[0057] With the cover retainer 38 blocking the upper openings of the multiple chambers 36g1 and 36g2, the locking piece 38p passes over the outside of the intermediate retainer 36 and engages with the locking protrusions 34r2 on both sides of the base retainer 34. Thus, with the intermediate retainer 36 positioned between the base retainer 34 and the cover retainer 38, the cover retainer 38 is held in a closed position relative to the base retainer 34. In this state, upward movement of the terminals 12 within the chambers 36g1 and 36g2 is restricted, and the aforementioned positioning protrusions 36gp are maintained embedded in the recesses 12g.

[0058] With multiple terminals 12 held by terminal holders 32, multiple wires 16 extend from the rear openings of chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, and 36g2.

[0059] The opening edges in the terminal retainer 32 for the power supply line 16 extending from the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 are the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 on the base retainer 34 side. The outlet opening edge 35h1 is the edge corresponding to the first chamber 34g1 of the base retainer 34, and is the first outlet opening edge 35h1 on the base retainer 34 side located at the rear edge of the first chamber 34g1. The outlet opening edge 35h2 is the edge corresponding to the second chamber 34g2 of the base retainer 34, and is the second outlet opening edge 35h2 on the base retainer 34 side located at the rear edge of the second chamber 34g2.

[0060] The opening edges in the terminal retainer 32 for the power supply line 16 extending from the chambers 36g1 and 36g2 are the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 on the intermediate retainer 36 side. The outlet opening edge 37h1 is the edge corresponding to the first chamber 36g1 of the intermediate retainer 36, and is the first outlet opening edge 37h1 on the intermediate retainer 36 side located at the rear edge of the first chamber 36g1. The outlet opening edge 37h2 is the edge corresponding to the second chamber 36g2 of the intermediate retainer 36, and is the second outlet opening edge 37h2 on the intermediate retainer 36 side located at the rear edge of the second chamber 36g2.

[0061] Additionally, a through hole is formed in the front wall 34FW to allow the counterpart terminal to pass through. Multiple counterpart terminals pass through this through hole and are connected to their respective terminals 12.

[0062] A locking recess 33 is formed on the side of the terminal retainer 32, which can be engaged by the spear-shaped portion 66. In this embodiment, a square-shaped hole with an inner and outer through shape is formed at the base end of the locking piece 38p of the cover retainer 38; this hole is the locking recess 33. The recess for engaging the spear-shaped portion can also be a bottomed recess.

[0063] The structures of the aforementioned outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 will be described in further detail later.

[0064] <About the casing> Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional view obtained by partially cutting through the shell 50. Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line IX-IX. In Figure 9 In the diagram, the terminal module 30 is drawn as a top view rather than a sectional view.

[0065] like Figures 1-5 , Figures 7-9 As shown, the housing 50 is a molded component based on resin or the like. As described above, the housing 50 includes a retainer holding portion 60 and a wire guide portion 52.

[0066] The retaining part 60 is the portion that holds the terminal 12 via the retaining terminal module 30. Furthermore, the retaining part 60 is the portion that connects to the other-side connector while holding the terminal 12.

[0067] In this embodiment, the retainer retaining part 60 includes a receiving wall part 62 and an outer wall part 68.

[0068] The receiving wall portion 62 is formed as a cylinder surrounding the terminal module 30. The outer wall portion 68 is formed as a cylinder surrounding the foremost portion of the receiving wall portion 62 at intervals. In this embodiment, the receiving wall portion 62 and the outer wall portion 68 are formed as square cylinders. Here, the square cylinder shape is not only a square cylinder with right angles, but can also be a square cylinder with rounded corners.

[0069] The rear opening in the storage wall 62 is the first opening 62a, and the front opening is the second opening 62b. The terminal module 30 is arranged inside the storage wall 62 with the wire 16 leading out from the first opening 62a.

[0070] The middle portion of the extending direction of the storage wall portion 62 is connected to the rear end of the outer wall portion 68 via a connecting wall 61. That is, the connecting wall 61 is located in the middle portion of the extending direction of the storage wall portion 62, and the portion of the storage wall portion 62 that is forward of the connecting wall 61 together with the outer wall portion 68 forms a double wall.

[0071] The front portion and outer wall portion 68 of the aforementioned receiving wall portion 62 are the parts that connect to the counterpart connector. The cylindrical portion of the counterpart connector can be inserted between the front portion of the receiving wall portion 62 and the outer wall portion 68. Therefore, the connection portion between the terminal 12 and the counterpart terminal is surrounded by the receiving wall portion 62, the cylindrical portion of the counterpart connector, and the outer wall portion 68. As a result, the waterproofness and protection of the terminal connection portion are improved. In addition, an annular elastic member G1 can be sandwiched between the receiving wall portion 62 and the cylindrical portion of the counterpart connector, thereby improving the waterproofness of the connection portion.

[0072] A locking piece 68a is formed on a portion (upper part) of the circumferential direction of the outer wall portion 68, which engages with the connector on the opposite side.

[0073] The rear portion of the receiving wall 62 is thicker than the front portion and extends to a position further rearward than the rear end of the outer wall 68.

[0074] The retaining part 60 has a spear-shaped part 66. The spear-shaped part 66 is formed to be elastically deformable with its base end connected to the receiving wall part 62 as a fulcrum. The spear-shaped part 66 has a locking protrusion 67 that protrudes inward toward the receiving wall part 62 and can engage with the terminal module 30 inside the receiving wall part 62.

[0075] The spear-shaped portion 66 is configured to elastically deform inward and outward from the receiving wall portion 62. The locking protrusion 67 of the spear-shaped portion 66 protrudes inward from the receiving wall portion 62 in the initial state. When the terminal module 30 is inserted into the receiving wall portion 62, the spear-shaped portion 66 elastically deforms outward, thereby allowing the insertion of the terminal module 30. With the terminal module 30 housed within the receiving wall portion 62, the spear-shaped portion 66 returns to its original position on the inner circumferential side by elastic force. Thus, the locking protrusion 67 can lock onto the terminal module 30.

[0076] More specifically, the front portion of the receiving wall 62 has a pair of side walls 63, an upper wall 64, and a lower wall 65. The pair of side walls 63, the upper wall 64, and the lower wall 65 are connected in a manner that forms a square tube.

[0077] The upper wall 64 and the lower wall 65 extend forward from the pair of side walls 63. A plate-like spear-shaped portion 66 extends from the leading edge of the pair of side walls 63.

[0078] The spear-shaped portion 66 is formed to be elastically deformable inward and outward of the receiving wall portion 62. In this embodiment, the spear-shaped portion 66 is formed as a plate extending forward from the leading edge of the side wall 63. Slits S are formed in the front-rear direction between the upper edge of the spear-shaped portion 66 and the upper wall 64, and between the lower edge of the spear-shaped portion 66 and the lower wall 65. Therefore, the spear-shaped portion 66 can elastically deform inward and outward of the receiving wall portion 62 with its base end 66P connected to the rear end side as a fulcrum. That is, the spear-shaped portion 66 is supported in a cantilever shape along the axial direction of the receiving wall portion 62 toward the front side (second opening 62b side) opposite to the side from which the wire 16 extends from the receiving wall portion 62.

[0079] The locking protrusion 67 is a portion of the spear-shaped portion 66 that protrudes toward the terminal component receiving space 62S. In this embodiment, the locking protrusion 67 protrudes partially in the width direction of the spear-shaped portion 66. More specifically, the locking protrusion 67 is formed in the upper portion of the inner surface of the spear-shaped portion 66. The locking protrusion 67 is formed at a position where it engages with the locking recess 33 of the terminal module 30 when the terminal module 30 is received within the receiving wall portion 62. The locking protrusion 67 has a guide surface 67f1 whose protrusion size gradually decreases as it faces rearward. When the terminal module 30 is inserted into the receiving wall portion 62, the terminal module 30 presses against the guide surface 67f1, thereby allowing the locking protrusion 67 to move outward. By restoring the spear-shaped portion 66 to its initial shape, the locking protrusion 67 engages with the locking recess 33 of the terminal module 30, thereby restricting the position of the terminal module 30 to prevent it from being pulled out rearward.

[0080] The wire guide portion 52 is integrally molded with the retainer portion 60 using resin. The wire guide portion 52 is formed in a square cylindrical shape. The upper end of the wire guide portion 52 is connected to the rear end of the receiving wall portion 62. The wire guide portion 52 extends downward from the portion connected to the rear end of the receiving wall portion 62. The internal space of the wire guide portion 52 is formed to extend downward from the rear of the terminal module 30. The wire 16 extending from the terminal module 30 bends downward behind the terminal module 30 and within the upper internal space of the wire guide portion 52. The wire 16 then passes through the wire guide portion 52 and is led downward.

[0081] An opening 52h for mounting is formed at the rear of the wire guide portion 52.

[0082] The mounting opening 52h is located at the rear of the housing wall 62, making it easy to install the terminal module 30 into the housing wall 62 through this opening. Furthermore, the mounting opening 52h is located along the direction in which the wire 16 extends downwards from the rear of the housing wall 62. Therefore, during the installation of the terminal module 30, the wire 16 extending from the terminal module 30 can be led out of the housing 50 through the mounting opening 52h. Thus, sufficient space for the wire 16 is easily ensured during the installation of the terminal module 30.

[0083] The mounting opening 52h is closed by the cover member 70. The cover member 70 is a component integrally molded from resin or the like. The cover member 70 has a plate-shaped cover body 71 for closing the mounting opening 52h and a locking piece 72 extending from the cover member 70. With the cover body 71 closed, the locking protrusion 50p1 on the outer side of the housing 50 engages with the locking hole of the locking piece 72. Thus, the cover member 70 is assembled with the housing 50 with the mounting opening 52h closed.

[0084] Alternatively, an annular elastic member G2, which closes the gap between the inner periphery of the installation opening 52h and the cover member 70, can be disposed.

[0085] The lower end of the wire guide portion 52, located on the opposite side of the retainer retainer portion 60, is formed as a lead-out end 54 that is entirely surrounded. The wire 16 passes through the wire guide portion 52 and then through the lead-out end 54 and is led outward.

[0086] Alternatively, a rubber plug G3 can be fitted to the aforementioned lead-out end 54, with the wire 16 inserted into the insertion hole formed in the rubber plug G3. This prevents water from entering along the wire 16. The rubber plug G3 can also be pressed from the outside by the pressing member 74 to prevent it from falling off the lead-out end 54.

[0087] In this embodiment, an example of the wire guide 52 guiding the wire 16 downwards has been described. The wire guide 52 may also guide the wire 16 in other directions. For example, the wire guide 52 may guide the wire 16 directly backwards, to the right, to the left, or upwards. Next, an example of a housing extending horizontally, and more specifically to the right, relative to the retaining member retaining portion will be described.

[0088] <Regarding the stop component> like Figures 2-5 , Figures 7-9As shown, the stop 90 is a component used to limit the elastic deformation of the spear-shaped portion 66. More specifically, the stop 90 limits the outward deformation of the spear-shaped portion 66. With the spear-shaped portion 66 locked in place by the terminal module 30, the stop 90 limits the outward deformation of the spear-shaped portion 66. As a result, the terminal module 30 can be prevented from being pulled out of the receiving wall portion 62.

[0089] The stop member 90 is a molded component based on resin or the like. In this embodiment, the stop member 90 is fitted to the end of the second opening 62b on the front side of the receiving wall portion 62.

[0090] More specifically, the stop 90 has a front wall 91 and a peripheral wall 92.

[0091] The front wall 91 is formed as a plate that can be configured to close the second opening 62b. Through holes are formed in the front wall 91 at positions corresponding to each terminal 12, allowing the opposite terminal to pass through.

[0092] The peripheral wall 92 is formed in the shape of a square tube surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion of the receiving wall portion 62. Assembly recesses 92g are formed on the inner surfaces of the left and right wall portions of the peripheral wall 92 (see reference). Figure 7 In this embodiment, an assembly protrusion 62p is formed on the outer surface of the spear-shaped portion 66 (see reference). Figure 8 A mounting protrusion may also be formed on the outer surface of the receiving wall portion 62. When the stop 90 is externally fitted to the top of the receiving wall portion 62, the mounting protrusion 62p is inserted into the mounting recess 92g. Thus, with the peripheral wall 92 surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion of the receiving wall portion 62 and the front wall 91 positioned on the front side of the receiving wall portion 62, the stop 90 is fitted to the front end portion of the receiving wall portion 62.

[0093] The stop 90 has a limiting portion 94 located outside the spear-shaped portion 66 to restrict the outward movement of the spear-shaped portion 66. In this embodiment, the limiting portion 94 is the portion located next to the mounting recess 92g on the inner surface of the left and right wall portions of the peripheral wall 92. When the stop 90 is fitted to the front end of the receiving wall portion 62, the limiting portion 94 is positioned opposite the outward-facing portion of the spear-shaped portion 66. Here, the limiting portion 94 is positioned opposite the outward-facing portion of the tip of the spear-shaped portion 66.

[0094] The limiting part 94 and the spear-shaped part 66 can contact each other. A gap can also be formed between the limiting part 94 and the spear-shaped part 66 within a range that does not release the locking of the locking protrusion 67 relative to the locking recess 33. Preferably, this gap is set as small as possible.

[0095] <Terminal module retaining structure> When the terminal module 30 is inserted into the receiving wall portion 62 from the rear, the front edge of the terminal module 30 contacts the guide surface 67f1 of the locking protrusion 67, causing the spear-shaped portion 66 to displace outward. When the front edge of the terminal module 30 passes the locking protrusion 67, the spear-shaped portion 66 returns to its original shape by elastic force, causing the locking protrusion 67 to engage with the locking recess 33. This prevents the terminal module 30 from being pulled out rearward.

[0096] Furthermore, the terminal module 30's rear end protrusion 30P contacts the rear end of the receiving wall portion 62, thereby restricting the forward movement of the terminal module 30 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0097] Next, the stop 90 is fitted onto the front end of the receiving wall portion 62. Then, the limiting portion 94 and the spear-shaped portion 66 face outwards. This restricts the outward movement of the tip of the spear-shaped portion 66, making it difficult for the locking protrusion 67 to move outwards from the locking recess 33.

[0098] <Regarding the direction of the wire> The housing 50 is configured such that the wire guide portion 52 extends downward relative to the retainer retaining portion 60. The terminal module 30 may also be mounted on a housing that guides the wire 16 in a direction different from that of the housing 50.

[0099] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of connector 120, which is different from connector 20. Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of connector 120. Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view along line XII-XII. This connector 120 is configured to guide the wire 16 laterally relative to the terminal module 30.

[0100] Regarding this connector 120, the description will focus on the differences from connector 20.

[0101] The connector 120 includes a wire 11 with terminals, a terminal retainer 32, and a housing 150.

[0102] The terminald wire 11 and terminal retainer 32 are the same as those described for connector 20. Therefore, the terminal module 30 is used as a component shared by connector 20 and connector 120.

[0103] The stop 90 may also be the same as the stop 90 described for the connector 20 above.

[0104] The housing 150 includes a retainer retaining portion 60 and a wire guide portion 152. The retainer retaining portion 60 may also be a portion with the same shape as the retainer retaining portion 60 described for the connector 20.

[0105] Similar to the wire guide portion 52 described above, the wire guide portion 152 is a portion integrally molded with the retainer portion 60 using resin, and is formed into a square tube shape.

[0106] Unlike the wire guide 52, the wire guide 152 extends horizontally, with one end (left end) connected to the rear end of the receiving wall 62. Thus, the wire guide 152 extends horizontally from the portion connected to the rear end of the receiving wall 62. The internal space of the wire guide 152 is formed so that it extends horizontally to the right from the rear of the terminal module 30. The wire 16 extending from the terminal module 30 bends to the right in the internal space of one end (left end) of the wire guide 152, behind the terminal module 30. The wire 16 then passes through the wire guide 152 and is led outward to the right.

[0107] That is, housings 50 and 150 guide the wire 16 extending from terminal module 30 in a direction intersecting the extension direction of terminal 12, but the guiding directions are different. Housing 50 guides the wire 16 towards base holder 34 along the stacking direction of intermediate holder 36 relative to base holder 34. Housing 150 guides the wire 16 along the direction in which the first chambers 34g1, 36g1 and the second chambers 34g2, 36g2 are arranged (refer to...). Figure 6 (Provide guidance.)

[0108] Similar to the wire guide 52, an installation opening 152h is formed at the rear of the wire guide 152.

[0109] Since the mounting opening 152h opens at the rear of the housing wall 62, the terminal module 30 can be easily installed into the housing wall 62 through the mounting opening 152h. Furthermore, the mounting opening 152h opens horizontally along the lead-out direction of the wire 16 from the rear of the housing wall 62. Therefore, during the installation of the terminal module 30, the wire 16 extending from the terminal module 30 can be led out from the housing 150 through the mounting opening 152h. Thus, during the installation of the terminal module 30, sufficient space for the wire 16 is easily ensured.

[0110] The mounting opening 152h is closed by the cover member 70. This cover member 70 can be the same as that described for the connector 20 above. With the mounting opening 152h closed on the cover body 71, the locking protrusion 150p1 on the outer side of the housing 150 engages with the locking hole of the locking piece 72. Thus, the cover member 70 is assembled with the housing 150 with the mounting opening 152h closed.

[0111] Alternatively, an annular elastic member G2, which closes the gap between the inner periphery of the installation opening 152h and the cover member 70, can be disposed.

[0112] Similar to the wire guide portion 52, the lower end of the wire guide portion 152 located on the opposite side of the retainer retainer portion 60 is formed as a lead-out end 54 that is entirely surrounded. The wire 16 passes through the wire guide portion 152 and then through the lead-out end 54 and is led outward.

[0113] Alternatively, a rubber plug G3 can be fitted to the aforementioned lead-out end 54, with the wire 16 inserted into the insertion hole formed in the rubber plug G3. This prevents water from entering along the wire 16. The rubber plug G3 can also be pressed from the outside by the pressing member 74 to prevent it from falling off the lead-out end 54.

[0114] <Regarding the shape of the outlet opening edge of the base retainer> Figure 13 This is a rear view of the terminal retainer 32. Figure 13 In the diagram, a double-dotted line represents a wire 16 that is guided downward from the housing 50, and a single-dotted line represents a wire 16 that is guided laterally from the housing 150. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 IVX-IVX line sectional view, Figure 15 yes Figure 13 XV-XV line sectional view, Figure 16 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view along line XVI-XVI. In Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the text, the cover component 70 is omitted.

[0115] As described above, the wire 16 extending from the terminal retainer 32 is guided by the housings 50 and 150 in a direction that intersects with the terminals 12 and chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, and 36g2. When the wire 16 is pulled, it may press against the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2.

[0116] The outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 have convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b that are curved from the inner peripheral surfaces of the chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, and 36g2 toward a direction intersecting the extending direction of the chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, and 36g2. Therefore, when the wire 16 is pulled, it presses against the convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b at the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 (see reference). Figure 14 and Figure 15 The double-dotted line L). As a result, the contact area between the wire 16 and the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 increases, and the force acting on the wire 16 is dispersed over a wider area.

[0117] The convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b can also be surfaces bent with a radius of curvature greater than the permissible bending radius of the wire 16. The permissible bending radius of the wire 16 is the minimum radius of curvature allowed to maintain the performance of the wire 16. The permissible bending radius is limited by the specifications of the wire 16, etc. As an example, the permissible bending radius can also be a value of 6 times the diameter of the wire 16.

[0118] The outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 are surrounded by the rear opening edges of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 of the base retainer 34 and a portion of the rear lower edge of the intermediate retainer 36, and are mainly formed in the base retainer 34. When viewed from the rear, the outlet opening edge 35h1 corresponds to the left chamber 34g1, and the outlet opening edge 35h2 corresponds to the right chamber 34g2.

[0119] Alternatively, convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b can be formed on a portion of the full circumference of each of the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2. That is, the radius of curvature of a portion of the full circumference of the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 can be larger than the radius of curvature of other portions, and the portion with the larger radius of curvature is the convex surface 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b.

[0120] The convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h1b may also be located at different positions relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge 35h1. Similarly, the convex surfaces 35h2b and 35h2b may also be located at different positions relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge 35h2.

[0121] Here, convex curved surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a are formed on the guide direction side of the entire circumference of the outlet opening edge 35h1 and 35h2, which is guided by the wire guide 52, and convex curved surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b are formed on the guide direction side of the guide 152.

[0122] More specifically, the convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a are formed on the side opposite to the intermediate retainer 36 along the entire circumference of the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2. Thus, when the terminal module 30 is assembled into the housing 50 of the downward-guided wire 16, the downward-guided wire 16 is guided via the convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a. The downward-pulled wire 16 presses against the convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a.

[0123] The convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b are formed on one side (here, the right side) of the direction in which the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 are arranged throughout the circumference of the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2. The position of the convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b throughout the circumference of the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 is one of the directions intersecting with the extension direction of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 and the direction in which the base retainer 34 coincides with the intermediate retainer 36. Thus, when the terminal module 30 is assembled into the housing 150 that guides the right-side wire 16, the right-side wire 16 is guided via the convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b. The wire 16, pulled to the right, presses against the convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b.

[0124] Sometimes the convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a are referred to as the first convex surfaces, and the convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b are referred to as the second convex surfaces.

[0125] In chamber 34g1, when viewed from the rear along its extending direction, the portions where the first convex surface 35h1a and the second convex surface 35h1b are connected in an arc shape, as well as the portions where the first convex surface 35h1a and the second convex surface 35h1b are connected in an arc shape, are also formed in a convex curved shape from the inner periphery of chamber 34g1 toward the outer side orthogonal to the extending direction of chamber 34g1. That is, the connecting portion of convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b is formed in a trumpet-shaped expansion shape. In this embodiment, when viewed from the rear, the first convex surface 35h1a is arc-shaped. The upper part of the second convex surface 35h1b is a straight line extending in the vertical direction, and the lower part is arc-shaped. Thus, the first convex surface 35h2a and the second convex surface 35h2b are connected in a J-shape when viewed from the rear.

[0126] Similarly, the first convex surface 35h2a and the second convex surface 35h2b are also connected in an arc shape.

[0127] To increase the contact area with the wire 16, the convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b preferably form the longest possible arc with the largest possible radius of curvature. Therefore, the base retainer 34 of the terminal retainer 32 has a thick-walled forming portion 34p. In this embodiment, the thick-walled forming portion 34p is a portion that protrudes inward from the outlet opening edge 35h1, 35h2 side of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2. More specifically, the thick-walled forming portion 34p is formed on the bottom side of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2, on both sides of the partition wall 34W, and on the inward-facing portion of the side wall 34SW on one side (right side). Figure 14 and Figure 16 ). 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b are formed as curved surfaces extending outward from the thick-walled forming portion 34p toward the extending direction of chambers 34g1 and 34g2.

[0128] By utilizing the thick-walled forming portion to make the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b 34p thick, it is easy to make the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b extend over a wide range with a large radius of curvature. In addition, it is possible to prevent the terminal retainer 32 from becoming thin-walled at the outer portions of the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b.

[0129] Alternatively, the aforementioned thick-walled forming portion 34p may also be formed in the region of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 on the side of the outlet opening edge 35h1 and 35h2, which is closer to the region where the terminal 12 is disposed (see reference). Figure 16 The wire 16 is thinner than the wire connection portion 12a of the terminal 12. By forming a thick-walled portion 34p in the aforementioned area, the enlargement of the terminal holder 32 is suppressed, while the thick-walled portion 34p is easily formed.

[0130] The explanation will focus on the second convex surface 35h1b. The partition wall 34W has an outlet-side partition edge 34We located between the first outlet opening edge 35h1 and the second outlet opening edge 35h2. The second convex surface 35h1b is formed in the portion of the first outlet opening edge 35h1 within this outlet-side partition edge 34We (see reference). Figure 13 and Figure 16 ).

[0131] The second convex surface 35h1b has a radius of curvature r larger than the radius of curvature of the portion on the second outlet opening edge 35h2 side of the outlet-side partition edge 34We. In other words, when viewed from above, the corner of the first outlet opening edge 35h1 in the outlet-side partition edge 34We is curved with a radius of curvature r larger than that of the corner on the second outlet opening edge 35h2 side.

[0132] Therefore, compared with the case where convex surfaces are formed on both sides of the outlet-side dividing edge 34We, the area where the second convex surface 35h1b exists can be increased, and the contact area between the wire 16 and the second convex surface 35h1b can be increased more easily.

[0133] The outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 are surrounded by the rear opening edges of the chambers 36g1 and 36g2 of the intermediate retainer 36 and a portion of the rear lower edge of the cover retainer 38, and are mainly formed in the intermediate retainer 36. When viewed from the rear, the outlet opening edge 37h1 corresponds to the left chamber 36g1, and the outlet opening edge 37h2 corresponds to the right chamber 36g2.

[0134] Alternatively, convex surfaces 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b can be formed on a portion of the full circumference of each of the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2. That is, the radius of curvature of a portion of the full circumference of the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 can be larger than the radius of curvature of other portions, and the portion with the larger radius of curvature is the convex surface 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b.

[0135] The convex surfaces 37h1a and 37h1b may also be located at different positions relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge 37h1. The convex surfaces 37h2a and 37h2b may also be located at different positions relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge 37h2.

[0136] Here, convex curved surfaces 37h1a and 37h2a are formed on the guide direction side of the entire circumference of the outlet opening edge 37h1 and 37h2, which is guided by the wire guide 52, and convex curved surfaces 37h1b and 37h2b are formed on the guide direction side of the guide 152.

[0137] More specifically, convex surfaces 37h1a and 37h2a are formed on the base retainer 34 side throughout the circumference of the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2. Thus, when the terminal module 30 is assembled into the housing 50 of the downward-guided wire 16, the downward-guided wire 16 is guided via the convex surfaces 37h1a and 37h2a. The downward-pulled wire 16 presses against the convex surfaces 37h1a and 37h2a.

[0138] The convex surfaces 37h1b and 37h2b are formed on one side (here, the right side) of the circumference of the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2, in the direction in which the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 are arranged. The position of the convex surfaces 37h1b and 37h2b in the circumference of the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 is one of the directions intersecting with the extension direction of the chambers 36g1 and 36g2 and the direction in which the base retainer 34 coincides with the intermediate retainer 36. Thus, when the terminal module 30 is assembled into the housing 150 that guides the right-side wire 16, the right-side wire 16 is guided via the convex surfaces 37h1b and 37h1b. The wire 16, pulled to the right, presses against the convex surfaces 37h1b and 37h2b.

[0139] Sometimes the convex surfaces 37h1a and 37h2a are referred to as the first convex surfaces, and the convex surfaces 37h1b and 37h2b are referred to as the second convex surfaces.

[0140] In chamber 36g1, when viewed from the rear along its extension direction, the first convex surface 37h1a and the second convex surface 37h1b are connected in an L-shape. Similarly, the first convex surface 37h2a and the second convex surface 37h2b are connected in an L-shape.

[0141] Furthermore, when the terminal retainer 32 is only applicable to the housing 50 having the wire guide portion 52, the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h2a, 37h1a, and 37h2a may be formed only on the guide direction side guided by the wire guide portion 52. For example, when the terminal retainer 32 is only applicable to the housing 150 having the wire guide portion 152, the convex surfaces 35h1b, 35h2b, 37h1b, and 37h2b may be formed only on the guide direction side guided by the wire guide portion 152. When the terminal retainer 32 is applicable to both the housing 50 and 150, it is preferable to form the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b on both guide direction sides guided by the wire guide portions 52 and 152.

[0142] Similar to the second convex surface 35h1b, the aforementioned second convex surface 37h1b is formed in a portion of the first outlet opening edge 37h1 in the rear end edge of the partition wall 36W used to separate the chambers 36g1 and 36g2 (see reference). Figure 13 and Figure 15 ).

[0143] This increases the area where the second convex surface 37h1b exists, making it easier to increase the contact area between the wire 16 and the second convex surface 37h1b.

[0144] In the extending direction of chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, 36g2, the outlet opening edges 37h1, 37h2 of the intermediate retainer 36 are located rearward and outward compared to the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2 of the base retainer 34. Therefore, the wires 16 extending from the outlet opening edges 37h1, 37h2 are staggered with each other, making it less likely for these wires 16 to interfere with each other. Especially when the wires 16 are led downwards, the wires 16 extending from the outlet opening edges 37h1, 37h2 are easily guided by passing behind the wires 16 extending from the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2. Thus, the wires 16 extending from the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2 are less likely to forcefully press against the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2.

[0145] <Effects, etc.> With the connectors 20 and 120 configured as described above, when the wire 16 is pulled, the wire 16 can press against the convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b in the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2b. By using 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b, the contact area between the wire 16 and the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 can be increased, thus enabling the force of the wire 16 pressing against the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 of the chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, and 36g2 to be dispersed over a larger area as much as possible.

[0146] In addition, if the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b, 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, and 37h2b are bent at a radius greater than the allowable bending radius of the wire 16, then the wire 16 is difficult to bend at a radius of curvature smaller than the allowable bending radius, and the performance of the wire 16 can be easily maintained.

[0147] Furthermore, a convex surface 35h1b is formed on the first outlet opening edge 35h1 side of the outlet-side partition edge 34We. If we were to attempt to form convex surfaces on both the first and second outlet opening edges of the outlet opening edge, the area of ​​each convex surface would need to be reduced or the partition wall thickened. Reducing the area of ​​each convex surface would narrow the force distribution range. Thickening the partition wall would result in a larger connector. Therefore, considering the lead-out direction of the wire 16, assuming that the wire 16 extending from the first outlet opening edge 35h1 is guided towards the second outlet opening edge 35h2 side, a convex surface is formed on the portion of the outlet-side partition edge 34We on the first outlet opening edge side. This suppresses the increase in connector size while distributing the force of the wire 16 extending from the chamber 34g1 against the outlet-side partition edge 34We over a wider area as much as possible.

[0148] By similarly forming the convex surface 37h1b, the force exerted by the wire 16 pressing against the right side of the first outlet opening edge 37h1 of the chamber 36g1 can be dispersed over a large area as much as possible.

[0149] In addition, the terminal retainer 32 has a thick-walled forming portion 34p. By setting the convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b as curved surfaces extending outward from the thick-walled forming portion 34p toward the extending direction intersecting the chambers 34g1 and 34g2, the convex curved surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, and 35h2b can be easily enlarged.

[0150] Furthermore, by forming a thick-walled portion 34p at a position closer to the outlet opening edge 35h1, 35h2 than the area where the terminal 12 is disposed, the area through which the wire 16, which is thinner than the wire connection portion 12a, passes can be utilized. Thus, the thick-walled portion 34p can be formed while suppressing the enlargement of the terminal holder 32.

[0151] Furthermore, in the extending direction (front-back direction) of chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, 36g2, the outlet opening edges 37h1, 37h2 of the intermediate retainer 36 are offset from the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2 of the base retainer 34. Therefore, the wires 16 extending from the outlet opening edges 37h1, 37h2 are less likely to interfere with each other. Consequently, the wires 16 extending from the base retainer 34 are easily and stably pressed against the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h1b, 35h2a, 35h2b of the base retainer, and the wires 16 extending from the intermediate retainer 36 are easily and stably pressed against the convex surfaces 37h1a, 37h1b, 37h2a, 37h2b of the intermediate retainer 36.

[0152] In particular, the outlet opening edges 37h1 and 37h2 of the intermediate retainer 36 are located further rearward and outward than the outlet opening edges 35h1 and 35h2 of the base retainer 34. Therefore, when the wire 16 is guided in the same direction as from the intermediate retainer 36 toward the base retainer 34, the wires 16 extending from the intermediate retainer 36 and the base retainer 34 can be stably pressed against the lower convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h2a, 37h1a, and 37h2a while avoiding interference between them.

[0153] Furthermore, since convex curved surfaces 35h1b, 35h2b, 37h1b, and 37h2b are formed on the lateral sides (right sides) of the outlet opening edges 35h1, 35h2, 37h1, and 37h2 respectively, the transversely led-out wires 16 can be stably pressed against the convex curved surfaces 35h1b, 35h2b, 37h1b, and 37h2b while avoiding interference between them.

[0154] Furthermore, the convex surfaces 35h1a, 35h2a, 37h1a, 37h2a and convex surfaces 35h1b, 35h2b, 37h1b, 37h2b are located at different positions relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, 36g2. Therefore, in the case where the terminal retainer 32 is selectively assembled into the housings 50, 150 with different lead-out directions, even if the wire 16 is guided in any direction, the force of the wire 16 pressing against the outlet opening edge of the chambers 34g1, 34g2, 36g1, 36g2 can be distributed over a wide range as much as possible.

[0155] Furthermore, since the convex surfaces 35h1a and 35h2a are connected to the convex surfaces 35h1b and 35h2b in an arc shape, the wire 16 makes contact with these arc-shaped connecting portions with a larger contact area. Therefore, the force exerted by the wire 16 against the outlet opening edge of the chambers 34g1 and 34g2 can be distributed over a wider area.

[0156] [Variation Example] The structure of the terminal retainer 32 held in connectors 20 and 120 is not limited to the examples described above. The terminal retainer may not be a structure consisting of multiple retainers 34, 36, 36 combined. For example, the retainer may also have a structure including a housing with a cavity and a stop, wherein the stop prevents the terminal inserted into the cavity from falling out.

[0157] The number of terminals held in a terminal module is arbitrary. The terminal module can also hold more terminals in the width direction or hold terminals in more layers.

[0158] Furthermore, the structures described in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0159] 11. Wires with terminals 12 terminals 12a Wire connection part 12b Terminal Connection 12g concave part 16 electrical wires 20 and 120 connectors 30-terminal module 30P protrusion 32 Terminal Retainer 33 Locking recess 34 Base retainer 34FW Front Wall 34SW, 36SW sidewalls 34W, 36W partition wall 34We Outlet Side Separation Edge 34g1, 36g1 First chamber (chamber) 34g2, 36g2 Second chamber (chamber) 34GP and 36GP positioning protrusions 34p Thick-walled forming section 34r1, 34r2 locking protrusions 35h1, 37h1 First outlet opening edge (outlet opening edge) 35h2, 37h2 Second outlet opening edge (outlet opening edge) 35h1a, 35h2a, 37h1a, 37h2a First convex surface (convex surface) 35h1b, 35h2b, 37h1b, 37h1b Second convex surface (convex surface) 36 Intermediate retainer 36p locking clip 38. Cover retainer 38p locking clip 50, 150 housing 50p1, 150p1 locking protrusion 52, 152 Wire Guide Section 52h, 152h installation openings 54 Lead-out end 60 Retaining part 61 Connecting Wall 62. Wall-mounted storage 62S Terminal Component Storage Space 62a First opening 62b Second opening 62p Assembly protrusion 63 Sidewall 64 upper wall 65 lower wall 66 Spear-shaped part 66P base terminal 67. Locking protrusion 67f1 Guide surface 68. Outer wall portion 68a locking plate 70 Cover Components 71. Main body of the cover 72 locking clips 74 Pressing Components 90 Stop 91 Anterior wall 92 Zhou Bi 92g recess for assembly 94 Restriction Department G1 and G2 Annular Elastic Members G3 rubber stopper S slit r radius of curvature

Claims

1. A connector that holds terminals via terminal retainers, wherein, The connector includes: A wire with terminals, having a wire and the terminals mounted at the ends of the wire; The terminal holder has a cavity for receiving the terminal; as well as The housing has a retainer holding portion for holding the terminal retainer and a wire guide portion for guiding the wire extending from the retainer holding portion. The terminal retainer has an outlet opening edge that allows the wire to extend from the chamber. The outlet opening edge has a convex curved surface that curves from the inner circumferential surface of the chamber toward a direction intersecting the extending direction of the chamber.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The convex surface bends with a radius of curvature greater than the allowable bending radius of the wire.

3. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The chamber includes a first chamber and a second chamber arranged side by side. The outlet opening edge includes a first outlet opening edge and a second outlet opening edge, which correspond to the first chamber and the second chamber, respectively. The terminal retainer also has a partition wall separating the first chamber and the second chamber. The partition wall has an outlet-side partition edge located between the first outlet opening edge and the second outlet opening edge. The convex curved surface is formed on the portion of the first outlet opening edge in the outlet-side partition edge. The convex surface has a larger radius of curvature than the portion of the second outlet opening edge in the outlet-side partition edge.

4. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The terminal retainer has a thick-walled forming portion that causes a portion of the outlet opening edge in the chamber to protrude into the interior of the chamber. The convex surface is a curved surface extending from the thick-walled forming portion toward a direction intersecting the extension direction of the chamber.

5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein, The thick-walled portion is formed in the chamber in a region adjacent to the outlet opening edge, beyond the region where the terminal is disposed.

6. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The terminal retainer has a base retainer and an intermediate retainer that overlaps with the base retainer. The base retainer and the intermediate retainer are respectively formed with the chamber and the outlet opening edge. In the extending direction of the chamber, the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer is offset relative to the outlet opening edge of the base retainer.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, In the extending direction of the chamber, the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer is located further outward than the outlet opening edge of the base retainer. The convex curved surface is formed on the side opposite to the intermediate retainer in the outlet opening edge of the base retainer. The convex curved surface is formed on the base retainer side of the outlet opening edge of the intermediate retainer.

8. The connector according to claim 6, wherein, The convex curved surface is formed on the side where the outlet opening edge of the base holder and the outlet opening edge of the intermediate holder intersect the two directions: the extension direction of the chamber and the direction in which the base holder and the intermediate holder coincide.

9. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The convex surface has a first convex surface and a second convex surface. The first convex surface and the second convex surface are formed at different positions in the circumferential direction of the outlet opening edge.

10. The connector according to claim 9, wherein, When viewed from the outlet opening edge side along the extension direction of the chamber, the first convex surface and the second convex surface are connected in an arc shape.

Images