Connector

Abstract

The present invention improves the reliability of repeated electrical connection between a connector and an external terminal in a state in which the connector has a low profile by a simple structure. The connector is electrically connected with an external terminal, and the connector is provided with a plurality of contact parts which are electrically connected with the external terminal; and a plurality of support portions that elastically support the plurality of contact portions such that the plurality of contact portions come into contact with the external terminal from mutually different directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to connectors. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, a wide variety of connectors have been developed. Patent document 1 describes a socket contactor. This socket contactor has a contact point for one side of the connector contactor to make contact, and a guide surface for the other side of the connector contactor to slide.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-224249 Summary of the Invention

[0006] For example, in applications where external terminals are repeatedly attached and detached from the connector, there is sometimes a need to improve the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector and the external terminals. Furthermore, when the connector is housed within a relatively small electronic device, there is sometimes a need for a low-profile connector achieved through a simple construction.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to improve the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector and external terminals while keeping the connector low-profile through a simple construction. Other objects of the present invention will become clear from the description herein.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a connector electrically connected to external terminals, wherein,

[0009] The connector has:

[0010] Multiple contacts electrically connected to the external terminals; and

[0011] Multiple support portions elastically support the multiple contacts in such a way that the multiple contacts contact the external terminals from different directions relative to each other.

[0012] According to the above-described method of the present invention, the reliability of repeated electrical connections of the connector and external terminals can be improved while keeping the connector low-profile through a simple structure. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the two connectors of Embodiment 1 mounted on the substrate.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the connector surface of Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the back side of the connector in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector and substrate of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, showing the substrate and external terminals electrically connected to each other via the connector.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector and substrate of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, illustrating the mounting of external terminals to the connector.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector and substrate of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, used to illustrate the removal of the external terminals from the connector.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the connector in variation 1.

[0020] Figure 8 It means along Figure 7 A perspective view of the connector in the deformed state of the cross section of line A-A, Example 1.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the connector surface of embodiment 2.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the back side of the connector in Embodiment 2.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector and substrate of Embodiment 2, viewed from the side with the connector mounted on the substrate.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the connector in variation example 2.

[0025] Figure 13 It means along Figure 12 A perspective view of the connector in the deformed state of the cross section of the B-B line, Example 2.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 10A, 10A1, 10B, 10B1 connectors; 20A, 20B substrates; 22A pad; 24A, 24B holes; 30 external terminal; 110A top plate; 110B bottom plate; 112A slit; 120A mounting arm; 120B guide protrusion; 120aB guide bend surface; 122A mounting arm extension; 124A mounting arm front end; 130A guide arm; 130aA guide bend surface; 130B side plate; 132A guide arm extension; 132B straight section; 134A guide arm front end. End portion, 134B elastic support portion, 136B proximity contact portion, 136aB contact surface, 138B protrusion, 140A, 140A1 elastic retaining arm, 142A, 142A1 elastic support portion, 142aA spring portion, 144A, 144A1 retaining beam portion, 146A front end contact portion, 146A1 bending contact portion, 146aA, 146aA1 contact surface, 146bA guide inclined surface, 146bA1 guide bent surface, 146cA front end inclined surface, 146cA1 front end bent surface Detailed Implementation

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments and variations of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings. In all the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same constituent elements, and descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the two connectors 10A of Embodiment 1 mounted on the substrate 20A. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the front side of connector 10A according to embodiment 1. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the back side of connector 10A according to embodiment 1. Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 10A and the substrate 20A of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, showing the substrate 20A and the external terminal 30 electrically connected to each other via the connector 10A.

[0030] Figures 1 to 4 In this document, to illustrate the directions, the X, Y, and Z directions are defined. The Z direction is the height direction of connector 10A. The X direction is one of the directions perpendicular to the Z direction. The X direction is parallel to the direction from one of the resilient retaining arms 140A (described later) towards another. The Y direction is perpendicular to both the X and Z directions.

[0031] Unless otherwise specified, the +X side refers to the side indicated by the front end of the X-axis, which represents the X direction, and the -X side refers to the opposite side of the side indicated by the front end of the X-axis, which represents the X direction. Unless otherwise specified, the +Y side refers to the side indicated by the front end of the Y-axis, which represents the Y direction, and the -Y side refers to the opposite side of the side indicated by the front end of the Y-axis, which represents the Y direction. Unless otherwise specified, the +Z side refers to the side indicated by the front end of the Z-axis, which represents the Z direction, and is the front side of connector 10A. Unless otherwise specified, the -Z side refers to the opposite side of the side indicated by the front end of the Z-axis, which represents the back side of connector 10A. Figure 4 In the middle, the white circle with an "×" indicates that the front of the Y-axis points to the inside of the paper.

[0032] Reference Figure 1 The connector 10A and the substrate 20A of Embodiment 1 are described below.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, with the substrate 20A arranged approximately perpendicular to the Z direction, two connectors 10A are mounted on the +Z side of the substrate 20A. Viewed from the Z direction, the two connectors 10A are arranged along the X direction. The substrate 20A is, for example, a flexible substrate such as a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) or a rigid substrate such as a printed circuit board (PCB). Figure 1 In the example shown, the substrate 20A and the electronic device having two external terminals 30 arranged in the X direction can be electrically connected to each other via two connectors 10A arranged in the X direction. Examples of electronic devices include batteries. The connectors 10A can be used, for example, in true wireless earbuds (TWS). By mounting a number of connectors 10A corresponding to the number of external terminals 30 of the electronic device on the substrate 20A, the substrate 20A can also be electrically connected to electronic devices having one or more external terminals 30.

[0034] Reference Figures 2 to 4 And refer to as needed Figure 1 This describes the connector 10A of Embodiment 1. Figure 4 In the image, with the two mounting arms 120A and one guide arm 130A located on the -Y side relative to the top plate 110A removed, the cross-section of the central portion of the top plate 110A and the base plate 20A in the Y direction is shown in shaded.

[0035] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3As shown, the connector 10A of Embodiment 1 has a top plate 110A, four mounting arms 120A, a pair of guide arms 130A, and a pair of resilient retaining arms 140A. The connector 10A of Embodiment 1 is formed by pressure processing of metals or alloys such as electroplated copper alloys and unplated stainless steel. The material of the connector 10A is not particularly limited as long as it meets the specified characteristics such as conductivity and strength; for example, metals or alloys not listed above can also be used. The method of forming the connector 10A is not limited to pressure processing.

[0036] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the top plate 110A is configured approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. Viewed from the Z direction, the top plate 110A has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of long sides approximately parallel to the X direction and a pair of short sides approximately parallel to the Y direction. A slit 112A extending along the Y direction is divided in the approximately central portion of the top plate 110A in the X direction. The +Z side surface of the top plate 110A is a generally flat surface approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. Therefore, when the suction port (not shown) is suctioned to the +Z side surface of the top plate 110A, the connector 10A can be moved, and automatic assembly of the connector 10A can be easily performed. The shape of the top plate 110A is not limited to... Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 Example shown.

[0037] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, viewed from the Z direction, the four assembly arms 120A are arranged approximately symmetrically. Specifically, viewed from the +Z side, the four assembly arms 120A include a pair of assembly arms 120A located on two opposing sides in the Y direction at the -X side end of the top plate 110A, and another pair of assembly arms 120A located on two opposing sides in the Y direction at the +X side end of the top plate 110A. Viewed from the +Z side, each pair of assembly arms 120A includes a pair of assembly arm extensions 122A extending from the two opposing sides in the Y direction at the -X side end of the top plate 110A toward the -Z side, and a pair of assembly arm front ends 124A extending from the -Z side end of the pair of assembly arm extensions 122A toward a side in the Y direction that is away from each other. Viewed from the +Z side, the other pair of assembly arms 120A includes another pair of assembly arm extensions 122A extending toward the -Z side from two opposing sides in the Y direction at the +X side end of the top plate 110A, and another pair of assembly arm front ends 124A extending toward the Y direction from the -Z side end of the other pair of assembly arm extensions 122A, on opposite sides. For example... Figure 2 as well as Figure 3As shown, the pair of assembly arms 120A, with rounded corners between the extension portion 122A and the front end portion 124A of the pair of assembly arms, are bent at approximately a right angle within the range from the extension portion 122A to the front end portion 124A of the pair of assembly arms. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the other pair of assembly arms 120A, with the corners of the other pair of assembly arm extensions 122A and the other pair of assembly arm front ends 124A rounded, bends at approximately a right angle within the range from the other pair of assembly arm extensions 122A to the other pair of assembly arm front ends 124A.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the connector 10A and the substrate 20A are mounted together with each pad 22A on the +Z side of the front end 124A of each mounting arm electrically connected to each other, for example, by soldering. Thus, each mounting arm 120A becomes a terminal for electrical connection with the pad 22A of the substrate 20A. By using four mounting arms 120A arranged approximately symmetrically, the connector 10A can be easily mounted on the +Z side of the substrate 20A, and automatic assembly of the connector 10A can be easily performed. The number and arrangement of the mounting arms 120A provided on the top plate 110A are not limited to... Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown in the example, the number of assembly arms 120A provided on the top plate 110A is, for example, one, two, three, or five or more. When multiple assembly arms 120A are provided, the multiple assembly arms 120A can be arranged approximately symmetrically or asymmetrically.

[0039] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, viewed from the Z direction, the pair of guide arms 130A are generally symmetrically arranged. Specifically, viewed from the +Z side, the pair of guide arms 130A includes a pair of guide arm extensions 132A extending toward the -Z side from two opposing sides in the Y direction at approximately the center of the top plate 110A in the X direction, and a pair of guide arm front ends 134A extending toward opposite sides in the Y direction from the -Z side ends of the pair of guide arm extensions 132A. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the pair of guide arms 130A are curved at the corners between the pair of guide arm extensions 132A and the pair of guide arm front ends 134A, and are bent at approximately right angles within the range from the pair of guide arm extensions 132A to the pair of guide arm front ends 134A.

[0040] like Figure 3As shown, the corners of a pair of guide arms 130A between a pair of guide arm extensions 132A and a pair of guide arm front ends 134A have a pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA facing each other in the Y direction. The distance between the pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA in the Y direction decreases towards the +Z side. Thus, viewed from the X direction, the pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA forms an inclined shape in which the dimension of the gap between the pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA in the Y direction decreases towards the +Z side. Figure 4 As shown, with the connector 10A mounted on the +Z side of the substrate 20A, the front ends 134A of each guide arm enter the holes 24A of the substrate 20A. This suppresses interference between the guide arms 130A and the substrate 20A, and allows the connector 10A to have a lower profile in the Z direction.

[0041] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, viewed from the Z direction, a pair of resilient retaining arms 140A are arranged approximately symmetrically. Specifically, the pair of resilient retaining arms 140A are located on two sides opposite each other, passing approximately from the center of the top plate 110A in the X direction and along a approximately central axis in the Y direction. Figure 3 As shown, each elastic retaining arm 140A has an elastic support portion 142A, two retaining beam portions 144A, and two front end contact portions 146A. Figure 2 As shown, the elastic support portion 142A of each elastic retaining arm 140A includes a spring portion 142aA. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side, the spring portion 142aA on the -X side, the two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side, and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side refer to the elastic support portion 142A, the spring portion 142aA, the two retaining beam portions 144A, and the two front end contact portions 146A of the elastic retaining arm 140A provided on the -X side edge of the top plate 110A, respectively. Unless otherwise specified, the elastic support portion 142A on the +X side, the spring portion 142aA on the +X side, the two retaining beam portions 144A on the +X side, and the two pairs of front end contact portions 146A on the +X side refer to the elastic support portion 142A, the spring portion 142aA, the two retaining beam portions 144A, and the two front end contact portions 146A of the elastic retaining arm 140A provided on the edge of the +X side of the top plate 110A, respectively.

[0042] like Figures 2 to 4As shown, the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side is rounded at the corner between the edge of the -X side of the top plate 110A and the front end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -Z side, and bends at approximately a right angle within the range from the edge of the -X side of the top plate 110A to the front end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -Z side. The spring portion 142aA on the -X side is located at the corner of the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side between the edge of the -X side of the top plate 110A and the front end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -Z side, and bends within the range from the edge of the -X side of the top plate 110A to the front end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -Z side. The spring portion 142aA on the -X side is elastically deformable by bending within a range from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side to the front end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side. The two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side are bent at approximately a right angle from their opposite ends in the Y direction at the end of the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side toward the +X side. Two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side are provided at the +X side ends of the two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side.

[0043] The two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side are rotatably supported by the spring portion 142aA on the -X side. Specifically, viewed from the Y direction, the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side can rotate around the spring portion 142aA on the -X side within the deformable range of the spring portion 142aA on the -X side. Therefore, the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side can move in a plane substantially parallel to the Z direction. In other words, the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side can move in a plane substantially perpendicular to the Y direction. Therefore, the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side, which includes the spring portion 142aA on the -X side, becomes a support portion for elastically supporting the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side, in a state where the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side can move in a plane approximately parallel to the Z direction. Thus, even if the two retaining beam portions 144A and the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side are displaced by external force, they can be returned to their original position by applying force from the spring portion 142aA on the -X side.

[0044] like Figure 3As shown, among the elastic support portion 142A on the +X side, the spring portion 142aA on the +X side, the two retaining beam portions 144A on the +X side, and the front end contact portion 146A on the +X side, the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side and the elastic support portion 142A on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to a general central axis passing through the approximate center of the top plate 110A in the X direction and along the approximate central axis in the Y direction. The spring portion 142aA on the -X side and the spring portion 142aA on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to this approximate central axis. The two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side and the two retaining beam portions 144A on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to the approximate central axis. The two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side and the two front end contact portions 146A on the +X side are also arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to the approximate central axis. Apart from these points, these portions are approximately the same as the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side, the spring portion 142aA on the -X side, the two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side, and the front end contact portions 146A on the -X side, respectively.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, the front-end contact portion 146A on the -Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the -X side and the front-end contact portion 146A on the -Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the +X side are opposite to each other in the X direction. Figure 3 As shown, the front end contact portion 146A on the +Y side of the two front end contact portions 146A on the -X side and the front end contact portion 146A on the +X side are opposite to each other in the X direction. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, a pair of retaining beam portions 144A refers to a pair consisting of the retaining beam portion 144A on the -Y side of the two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side and the retaining beam portion 144A on the -Y side of the two retaining beam portions 144A on the +X side, and a pair consisting of the retaining beam portion 144A on the +Y side of the two retaining beam portions 144A on the -X side and the retaining beam portion 144A on the +Y side of the two retaining beam portions 144A on the +X side. Unless otherwise specified, a pair of front-end contact portions 146A refers to a pair consisting of the front-end contact portion 146A on the -Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the -X side and the front-end contact portion 146A on the -Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the +X side, and a pair consisting of the front-end contact portion 146A on the +Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the -X side and the front-end contact portion 146A on the +Y side of the two front-end contact portions 146A on the +X side.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, a pair of front-end contact portions 146A are at least partially located in the Z direction between the +Z side surface of the substrate 20A and the -Z side surface of the top plate 110A. Figure 4As shown, a pair of front-end contact portions 146A include a pair of contact surfaces 146aA that are spaced apart by a predetermined distance and face each other in the X direction, a pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA located on the -Z side relative to the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, and a pair of front-end inclined surfaces 146cA located on the +Z side relative to the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, a pair of contact surfaces 146aA refers to the contact surfaces 146aA that face each other in the X direction, a pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA refers to the guide inclined surfaces 146bA that face each other in the X direction, and a pair of front-end inclined surfaces 146cA refers to the front-end inclined surfaces 146cA that face each other in the X direction.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, a pair of contact surfaces 146aA are approximately parallel to the Z direction. Therefore, the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA is approximately fixed regardless of its position in the Z direction. When no external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the dimension of the gap in the X direction is less than the dimension of the external terminal 30 in the X direction. Therefore, as... Figure 4 As shown, with the external terminal 30 inserted into the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the pair of front contact portions 146A can clamp the external terminal 30. When the external terminal 30 is clamped by the pair of front contact portions 146A, the pair of front contact portions 146A become contact portions that contact different parts of the external terminal 30. Figure 4 In the example shown, with the external terminal 30 inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the pair of contact surfaces 146aA are in contact with the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction. Thus, the pair of front contact portions 146A also become terminals for electrical connection with the external terminal 30.

[0048] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, a pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA are inclined in a direction that separates from each other in the X direction as they move away from a pair of contact surfaces 146aA toward the -Z side. Therefore, viewed from the Y direction, the pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA have an inclined shape in which the dimension of the gap between the pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA gradually decreases in the X direction as they approach the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. Figure 4 As shown, a pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA are inclined in a direction that separates from each other in the X direction as they move away from a pair of contact surfaces 146aA toward the +Z side. Thus, viewed from the Y direction, the pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA have an inclined shape in which the size of the gap between the pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA gradually decreases in the X direction as they approach the pair of contact surfaces 146aA.

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, the +Z side edge of the front contact portion 146A protrudes towards the +Z side compared to the +Z side edge of the retaining beam portion 144A. Figure 4 As shown, the -Z side edge of the front contact portion 146A and the -Z side edge of the retaining beam portion 144A are approximately one surface. That is, the front contact portion 146A is formed such that the +Z side edge of the front contact portion 146A protrudes towards the +Z side compared to the +Z side edge of the retaining beam portion 144A. This allows the width of the retaining beam portion 144A in the Z direction to be smaller than the width of the front contact portion 146A in the Z direction, thereby forming a gap between the top plate 110A and the retaining beam portion 144A, which facilitates the formation of the curved shape of the spring portion 142aA. The shapes of the retaining beam portion 144A and the front contact portion 146A are not limited to... Figure 4 The example shown. For example, the +Z side edge of the front contact portion 146A and the +Z side edge of the retaining beam portion 144A can also be approximately one surface.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 10A and substrate 20A of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, for illustrating the installation of the external terminal 30 onto the connector 10A. Figure 5 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, with the two mounting arms 120A and one guide arm 130A located on the -Y side relative to the top plate 110A removed, the cross-section of the central portion of the top plate 110A and the base plate 20A in the Y direction is shown in shaded form. (Refer to...) Figure 5 And refer to as needed Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 This describes the installation of the external terminal 30 onto the connector 10A. In Embodiment 1, the direction from the -Z side to the +Z side is the installation direction of the external terminal 30, that is, the insertion direction of the external terminal 30.

[0051] First, the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30 is inserted through the opening on the -Z side of the hole 24A in the substrate 20A toward the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 146aA. During insertion of the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30, the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30 is introduced into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA by the inclined shapes of a pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA facing each other in the Y direction and a pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA facing each other in the X direction. Thus, the pair of guide curved surfaces 130aA facing each other in the Y direction and the pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA facing each other in the X direction become guide portions for guiding the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30 toward the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. Therefore, the external terminal 30 can be easily guided toward the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. For example, even by hand, the external terminal 30 can be easily guided toward the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA.

[0052] Next, the external terminal 30 is pushed into the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 146aA in the Z direction. Figure 5 As shown, during the insertion of the external terminal 30, based on the contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction and the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the pair of retaining beams 144A sometimes rotate around the spring portion 142aA on the -X side and the spring portion 142aA on the +X side, causing the pair of front end contact portions 146A to displace toward the +Z side. However, even if the pair of front end contact portions 146A displace toward the +Z side, the +Z side surfaces of the pair of front end contact portions 146A and the -Z side surfaces of the top plate 110A will still contact each other, which can suppress excessive deformation of the spring portion 142aA. Thus, the top plate 110A becomes a limiting part for restricting the displacement of the pair of front end contact portions 146A toward the +Z side.

[0053] With the external terminal 30 held by a pair of front contact portions 146A, the connector 10A and the external terminal 30 are electrically connected to each other through contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction and the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. Thus, the substrate 20A and the external terminal 30 can be electrically connected to each other via the connector 10A.

[0054] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, the gap between the slit 112A and the pair of contact surfaces 146aA overlaps with each other in the Z direction. Therefore, with the external terminal 30 held by the pair of front contact portions 146A, the external terminal 30 can be seen through the slit 112A. By seeing the external terminal 30 through the slit 112A, it is possible to confirm whether the external terminal 30 is inserted and the amount of insertion. Therefore, compared to the case where the slit 112A is not provided, it is easier to confirm whether the external terminal 30 is inserted and the amount of insertion.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 10A and substrate 20A of Embodiment 1, viewed from the side, for illustrating the removal of the external terminal 30 from the connector 10A. Figure 6 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, with the two mounting arms 120A and one guide arm 130A located on the -Y side relative to the top plate 110A removed, the cross-section of the central portion of the top plate 110A and the base plate 20A in the Y direction is shown in shaded form. (Refer to...) Figure 6 And refer to as needed Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 This describes the removal of the external terminal 30 from the connector 10A. In Embodiment 1, the direction from the +Z side to the -Z side is the removal direction of the external terminal 30, that is, the pull-out direction of the external terminal 30.

[0056] With the external terminal 30 held by a pair of front contact portions 146A, the external terminal 30 is pulled toward the -Z side, thereby pulling the external terminal 30 out of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA. Figure 6 As shown, during the removal of the external terminal 30, based on the contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction and the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the pair of retaining beams 144A sometimes rotate around the spring portion 142aA on the -X side and the spring portion 142aA on the +X side, causing the pair of front end contact portions 146A to displace toward the -Z side. However, even if the pair of front end contact portions 146A displace toward the -Z side, the -Z side surfaces of the pair of front end contact portions 146A and the +Z side surfaces of the substrate 20A will still contact each other, which can suppress excessive deformation of the spring portion 142aA. Thus, the substrate 20A becomes a limiting part for restricting the displacement of the pair of front end contact portions 146A toward the -Z side. The limiting part for restricting the displacement of the pair of front end contact portions 146A toward the -Z side may not be the substrate 20A, and may also be provided on the connector 10A.

[0057] like Figure 6As shown, during the removal of the external terminal 30, due to the inclination of the pair of retaining beams 144A facing each other in the X direction, the dimension in the X direction of the +Z side end of the gap between the pair of front contact portions 146A may sometimes narrow. If the dimension in the X direction of the +Z side end of the gap between the pair of front contact portions 146A narrows when the external terminal 30 is removed, it may become difficult to prevent the gap between the pair of front contact portions 146A from hooking with the +Z side front end of the external terminal 30 at the +Z side end. However, as Figure 6 As shown, the +Z side end of a pair of front contact portions 146A is formed with an inclined shape by a pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA, thereby suppressing the hooking of the +Z side front end of the external terminal 30.

[0058] After the external terminal 30 is pulled out from the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 146aA, the pair of retaining beam portions 144A and the pair of front contact portions 146A are reset to their original positions, which are approximately parallel to the X direction, by the force applied by the spring portions 142aA on the -X side and the spring portions 142aA on the +X side.

[0059] In Embodiment 1, thanks to the elastic support of the elastic support portions 142A on the -X side and +X side, the dimension in the X direction of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA when the external terminal 30 is not inserted between the contact surfaces 146aA can be easily kept approximately fixed during repeated electrical connections between the connector 10A and the external terminal 30. Furthermore, thanks to the elastic support of the elastic support portions 142A on the -X side and +X side, the pushing load required to insert the external terminal 30 into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA can be easily kept approximately fixed during repeated electrical connections between the connector 10A and the external terminal 30. Moreover, thanks to the elastic support of the elastic support portions 142A on the -X side and +X side, the pulling load required to pull the external terminal 30 out of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA can be easily kept approximately fixed during repeated electrical connections between the connector 10A and the external terminal 30. Therefore, the elastic support of the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side and the elastic support portion 142A on the +X side can improve the reliability of repeated electrical connections of the connector 10A and the external terminal 30.

[0060] In Embodiment 1, the elastic support portion 142A is formed by a component constituting the connector 10A. That is, the connector 10A itself has the elastic support portion 142A. Therefore, it is unnecessary to separately provide an elastic support portion, such as a leaf spring, for applying force to the front contact portion 146A with the connector 10A. When an elastic support portion is separately provided with the connector, the assembly structure of the connector and the elastic support portion can sometimes become more complex, and it can sometimes be more difficult to achieve a low-profile design. However, in Embodiment 1, compared to the case where an elastic support portion is separately provided with the connector, the connector 10A can be made to have a low-profile design in the Z direction through a simplified structure.

[0061] In Embodiment 1, the elastic support portion 142A on the -X side and the elastic support portion 142A on the +X side are multiple support portions that elastically support a pair of front end contact portions 146A in such a way that a pair of front end contact portions 146A contact the external terminal 30 from different directions relative to each other. Specifically, the pair of front end contact portions 146A are elastically supported in such a way that they contact the external terminal 30 from opposite directions in the X direction. Thus, compared with the case where only one side of the front end contact portion 146A is elastically supported on both sides of the external terminal 30 in the X direction, it is easier to keep the dimension in the X direction of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA in the repeated electrical connection between the connector 10A and the external terminal 30, the pushing load required to insert the external terminal 30 into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA, and the pulling load required to pull the external terminal 30 out of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA fixed. Furthermore, as described above, when the connector 10A has an elastic support portion 142A, compared to the case where the connector also has an elastic support portion, the connector 10A can be made to be lower in the background by a simple structure. Therefore, in Embodiment 1, the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector 10A and the external terminal 30 can be improved by making the connector 10A lower in the background by a simple structure.

[0062] In Embodiment 1, for each elastic retaining arm 140A, the two retaining beam portions 144A are elastically supported by one elastic support portion 142A. Therefore, compared to the case where each retaining beam portion 144A is elastically supported by a separate elastic support portion, the connector 10A can be easily miniaturized. The number of retaining beam portions 144A supported by one elastic support portion 142A is not limited to two; it can be one or more.

[0063] In Embodiment 1, the plurality of front-end contact portions 146A contact the external terminal 30 from opposite directions in the X direction. However, the plurality of front-end contact portions 146A may also contact the external terminal 30 from multiple directions different from the opposite directions in the X direction.

[0064] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of connector 10A1 of variant example 1. Figure 8 It means along Figure 7 A perspective view of connector 10A1 in the state of deformation of the cross section of line A-A. Figure 8 For illustrative purposes, the external terminal 30 electrically connected to the connector 10A1 of Modified Example 1 is shown. The connector 10A1 of Modified Example 1 is the same as the connector 10A of Embodiment 1 except for the following points.

[0065] The connector 10A1 in Modification 1 has a pair of resilient retaining arms 140A1. Each resilient retaining arm 140A1 has a resilient support portion 142A1, a retaining beam portion 144A1, and a bending contact portion 146A1. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the resilient support portion 142A1 on the -X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side, and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side of the top plate 110A refer to the resilient support portion 142A1, the retaining beam portion 144A1, and the bending contact portion 146A1 of the resilient retaining arm 140A1 provided on the -X side edge of the top plate 110A, respectively. Unless otherwise specified, the elastic support portion 142A1 on the +X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the +X side, and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the +X side refer to the elastic support portion 142A1, the retaining beam portion 144A1, and the bending contact portion 146A1 of the elastic retaining arm 140A1 provided on the edge of the +X side of the top plate 110A, respectively. Similar to the top plate 110A in Embodiment 1, the top plate 110A of Modified Example 1 has a slit 112A extending in the Y direction divided in approximately the central portion of the top plate 110A in the X direction.

[0066] The elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side extends from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side toward the -Z side at its front end, then folds back approximately 180°. Viewed from the Y direction, the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side bends within the range from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side to its front end. The elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side is elastically deformable by this bending within the range from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side to its front end. The retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side extends from the front end of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side toward the +X side. The bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side extends from the +X side end of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side toward the +Z side at its front end, then folds back approximately 180°. Viewed in the Y direction, the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side is bent within the range from the +X side end of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side to the front end of the bent contact portion 146A1. The width in the Y direction of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side, and the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side is approximately fixed within the range from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side to the front end of the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side. The thickness of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side, and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side, which is perpendicular to the width in the Y direction, is approximately fixed within the range from the edge of the top plate 110A on the -X side to the front end of the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side.

[0067] The retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side are elastically supported in the Z direction by the elastic deformation of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side. Specifically, as shown... Figure 7 as well as Figure 8As shown, in the state where the external terminal 30 is not held, viewed from the Y direction, for the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side, an elastic force acts in the direction towards the -Z side due to the elastic deformation of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side. Therefore, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side can move in a plane substantially parallel to the Z direction, causing displacement towards the +Z side due to a force applied in a direction substantially parallel to the +Z side, and returning to their original position due to a decrease in the force applied in the direction substantially parallel to the +Z side. In other words, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bent contact portion 146A1 on the -X side can move in a plane substantially perpendicular to the Y direction. Furthermore, the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side, with the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side movable in a plane substantially parallel to the Z direction, becomes a support portion for elastically supporting the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side. Therefore, even if the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side are displaced by external force, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side can be returned to their original position by applying force from the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side.

[0068] Of the elastic support portion 142A1 on the +X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the +X side, and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the +X side, the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side and the elastic support portion 142A1 on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to a generally central axis passing through the approximately center of the top plate 110A in the X direction and along the approximately central axis in the Y direction. The retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side and the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to this approximately central axis. The bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the +X side are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to this approximately central axis. Apart from these, these portions are approximately the same as the elastic support portion 142A1 on the -X side, the retaining beam portion 144A1 on the -X side, and the bending contact portion 146A1 on the -X side, respectively.

[0069] like Figure 8 As shown, a pair of curved contact portions 146A1 facing each other in the X direction includes a pair of contact surfaces 146aA1 facing each other in the X direction, a pair of guide curved surfaces 146bA1 located on the -Z side relative to the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1, and a pair of front curved surfaces 146cA1 located on the +Z side relative to the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1.

[0070] A pair of contact surfaces 146aA1 are located at the closest point to each other in the X direction among a pair of curved contact portions 146A1. When no external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1, the dimension of the gap in the X direction is less than the dimension of the external terminal 30 in the X direction. Therefore, when an external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1, the pair of curved contact portions 146A1 can clamp the external terminal 30. Thus, the pair of curved contact portions 146A1 in Modified Example 1, like the front contact portion 146A in Embodiment 1, become contact portions that contact different portions of the external terminal 30. Figure 8 In the example shown, with the external terminal 30 inserted in the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 146aA1, the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1 are in contact with the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction. Thus, the pair of bent contact portions 146A1 also become terminals for electrical connection with the external terminal 30.

[0071] like Figure 8 As shown, the pair of guide curved surfaces 146bA1 are inclined in shape, with the dimension of the gap between the pair of guide curved surfaces 146bA1 gradually decreasing in the X direction as they approach the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1. Thus, the pair of guide curved surfaces 146bA1 in Modified Example 1, like the pair of guide inclined surfaces 146bA in Embodiment 1, serve as guide portions for guiding the front end of the external terminal 30 on the +Z side into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1 when the external terminal 30 is inserted.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, the gap between the pair of front curved surfaces 146cA1 has an inclined shape in which the size of the gap between the pair of front curved surfaces 146cA1 gradually decreases in the X direction as it approaches the pair of contact surfaces 146aA1. Thus, similar to the pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA in Embodiment 1, the pair of front curved surfaces 146cA1 can prevent the gap between the pair of front inclined surfaces 146cA from hooking with the front end of the external terminal 30 on the +Z side at the +Z side end when the external terminal 30 is pulled out.

[0073] In Modification 1, similarly to Embodiment 1, a pair of bent contact portions 146A1 located on both sides of the external terminal 30 in the X direction are elastically supported by elastic support portions 142A1 on the -X side and elastic support portions 142A1 on the +X side. Therefore, by simplifying the structure and reducing the back profile of the connector 10A1, the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector 10A1 and the external terminal 30 can be improved.

[0074] Figure 9This is a perspective view of the front side of connector 10B according to embodiment 2. Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the back side of connector 10B according to embodiment 2. Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connector 10B and substrate 20B of Embodiment 2, viewed from the side with the connector 10B mounted on the substrate 20B. The connector 10B of Embodiment 2 is the same as the connector 10A of Embodiment 1, except for the following points. Figure 9 as well as Figure 11 For illustration, the external terminal 30 electrically connected to the connector 10B of Embodiment 2 is shown in the figure. Figure 11 In the illustration, the cross-section of the approximate central portion of the pair of base plates 110B and the pair of guide protrusions 120B described later is shown in the shaded area.

[0075] Figures 9 to 11 In this document, to illustrate directions, the X, Y, and Z directions are defined. The Z direction is the height direction of connector 10B. The X direction is one of the directions perpendicular to the Z direction. The X direction is parallel to the direction from one of the pair of side plates 130B (described later) towards the other. The Y direction is perpendicular to both the X and Z directions. Figure 11 In the diagram, the white circle with an "×" indicates that the front of the X-axis points to the inside of the paper.

[0076] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the connector 10B of Embodiment 2 has a pair of base plates 110B, a pair of guide protrusions 120B, and a pair of side plates 130B. The connector 10B of Embodiment 2 is formed, for example, by pressure processing. Compared to the connector 10A of Embodiment 1, the connector 10B of Embodiment 2 can be formed with less bending processing. Therefore, the connector 10B of Embodiment 2 can be manufactured more simply compared to the connector 10A of Embodiment 1.

[0077] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a pair of base plates 110B are arranged along the Y direction. Each base plate 110B is configured approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. Figure 9 as well as Figure 10As shown, viewed from the Z direction, each base plate 110B has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of long sides that are approximately parallel to the X direction and a pair of short sides that are approximately parallel to the Y direction. The +Z side surface of each base plate 110B is a generally flat surface that is approximately perpendicular to the Z direction. Therefore, with the suction port (not shown) and the +Z side surface of the base plate 110B adsorbed together, the connector 10B can be moved, facilitating automatic assembly of the connector 10B. The pads (not shown) on the -Z side surface of each base plate 110B and the +Z side surface of the substrate 20B are electrically connected to each other when the connector 10B is mounted on the +Z side surface of the substrate 20B. Thus, the -Z side surface of each base plate 110B becomes a terminal for electrical connection with the substrate 20B. The shape of each base plate 110B is not limited to... Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 Example shown.

[0078] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a pair of guide protrusions 120B extend from the opposite edges of a pair of base plates 110B along the Y direction. With the front ends of the pair of guide protrusions 120B facing the +Z side, the pair of guide protrusions 120B bends within a range from the opposite edges of the pair of base plates 110B along the Y direction to the front ends of the pair of guide protrusions 120B. Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown, the front ends of a pair of guide protrusions 120B have a pair of guide curved surfaces 120aB that are opposite to each other. Figure 11 As shown, viewed from the X direction, the pair of guide curved surfaces 120aB become an inclined shape in which the size of the gap between the pair of guide curved surfaces 120aB gradually decreases in the Y direction as it approaches the +Z side.

[0079] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a pair of side plates 130B extend from two opposite sides of the base plate 110B on the -Y side along the X direction to two opposite sides of the base plate 110B on the +Y side along the X direction. Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the side plate 130B on the -X side has two straight portions 132B that bend at approximately a right angle from the -X side edge of the pair of base plates 110B toward the +Z side and extend in the Y direction, and an elastic support portion 134B located between the two straight portions 132B. The side plate 130B on the +X side includes two other straight portions 132B that bend at approximately a right angle from the +X side edge of the pair of base plates 110B toward the +Z side and extend in the Y direction, and other elastic support portions 134B located between the other two straight portions 132B.

[0080] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10As shown, a pair of elastic support portions 134B facing each other in the X direction includes a pair of proximity contact portions 136B located at the closest position to each other in the X direction among the pair of elastic support portions 134B. The pair of proximity contact portions 136B are located approximately at the center of the pair of elastic support portions 134B in the Y direction. Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, viewed from the Z direction, the pair of elastic support portions 134B bends convexly toward approximately the center of the pair of near-contact portions 136B in the Y direction. The pair of elastic support portions 134B can elastically deform according to the bending of the pair of elastic support portions 134B.

[0081] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a pair of proximity contacts 136B facing each other in the X direction includes a pair of contact surfaces 136aB facing each other in the X direction. When no external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB, the size of the gap in the X direction is smaller than the size of the external terminal 30 in the X direction. Therefore, when an external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB, the pair of proximity contacts 136B facing each other in the X direction can clamp the external terminal 30. When the external terminal 30 is clamped by the pair of proximity contacts 136B, the pair of proximity contacts 136B facing each other in the X direction become contact portions that contact different parts of the external terminal 30. In Embodiment 2, when an external terminal 30 is inserted into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB, the pair of contact surfaces 136aB can contact the two sides of the external terminal 30 facing each other in the X direction. Thus, a pair of proximity contacts 136B facing each other in the X direction also become terminals for electrical connection with external terminals 30.

[0082] A pair of proximity contacts 136B are elastically supported by a pair of elastic support portions 134B in a manner that allows them to contact and separate from each other. Specifically, within the deformable range of the pair of elastic support portions 134B, the pair of proximity contacts 136B can move in a direction that approaches each other along the X direction and in a direction that separates each other along the X direction. Thus, the pair of proximity contacts 136B can move in a plane substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. Therefore, the pair of elastic support portions 134B, in a state where the pair of proximity contacts 136B can move in a plane substantially perpendicular to the Z direction, becomes a support portion for elastically supporting the pair of proximity contacts 136B. Therefore, even if the pair of proximity contacts 136B are displaced by an external force, the pair of proximity contacts 136B can be returned to their original position by applying force through the pair of elastic support portions 134B.

[0083] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the -Z side edge of each pair of elastic support portions 134B tilts towards the +Z side as it approaches the contact portion 136B. Thus, viewed from the X direction, the -Z side edge of each elastic support portion 134B becomes an inclined shape in which the Y-direction dimension of the gap between the edges gradually decreases as it approaches the +Z side.

[0084] Reference Figures 9 to 11 This describes the installation of the external terminal 30 to the connector 10B.

[0085] First, the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30 is inserted through the opening on the -Z side of the hole 24B in the substrate 20B toward the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 136aB. During insertion, the front end of the +Z side of the external terminal 30 is introduced into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB by the inclined shapes of a pair of guide curved surfaces 120aB facing each other in the Y direction and the inclined shapes of the -Z side edges of a pair of elastic support portions 134B facing each other in the X direction. Thus, the pair of guide curved surfaces 120aB facing each other in the Y direction and the -Z side edges of the pair of elastic support portions 134B facing each other in the X direction become guide portions for guiding the +Z side end of the external terminal 30 toward the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB. Therefore, the external terminal 30 can be easily guided toward the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB.

[0086] Next, the external terminal 30 is pushed into the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB in the Z direction. The elastic support portion 134B of Embodiment 2 can move in the X direction while being fixed in the Z direction. Therefore, the deformation resistance of the elastic support portion 134B in Embodiment 2 is easily higher than that of the spring portion 142aA in Embodiment 1. Thus, in Embodiment 2, deformation of the approach contact portion 136B towards the +Z side due to contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 in the X direction and the pair of contact surfaces 136aB during insertion can be easily suppressed. Therefore, the pair of elastic support portions 134B become limiting portions for restricting the displacement of the pair of approach contact portions 136B towards the -Z side.

[0087] With the external terminals 30 held in place by the opposing elastic support portions 134B, the connector 10B and the external terminals 30 are electrically connected to each other through contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminals 30 along the X direction and a pair of contact surfaces 136aB. Thus, the substrate 20B and the external terminals 30 are electrically connected to each other via the connector 10B.

[0088] With the external terminal 30 held in place by the opposing elastic support portions 134B, the external terminal 30 can be seen through the opening on the +Z side of the gap between the pair of contact surfaces 136aB. By seeing the external terminal 30 through this opening, it is possible to confirm whether the external terminal 30 is inserted and the extent of insertion. Therefore, compared to the case where this opening is not provided, it is easier to confirm whether the external terminal 30 is inserted and the extent of insertion.

[0089] Reference Figures 9 to 11 This indicates that the external terminal 30 has been removed from the connector 10B.

[0090] With the external terminal 30 held by a pair of proximity contacts 136B, the external terminal 30 is pulled toward the -Z side, thereby pulling the external terminal 30 out of the gap between the pair of proximity contacts 136B. As described above, the deformation resistance of the elastic support portion 134B in Embodiment 2 can easily be higher than that of the spring portion 142aA in Embodiment 1. Therefore, deformation of the proximity contacts 136B toward the -Z side caused by contact between the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 in the X direction and the pair of contact surfaces 136aB when the external terminal 30 is pulled out can be easily suppressed. Thus, the pair of elastic support portions 134B become limiting portions for restricting the displacement of the pair of proximity contacts 136B toward the +Z side.

[0091] After the external terminal 30 is pulled out from the gap between a pair of contact surfaces 136aB, the pair of proximity contacts 136B are reset to their original position by the force exerted by a pair of elastic support portions 134B.

[0092] In Embodiment 2, similarly to Embodiment 1, a pair of proximity contacts 136B located on both sides of the external terminal 30 in the X direction are elastically supported by a pair of elastic support portions 134B. Therefore, by simplifying the structure and reducing the back profile of the connector 10B, the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector 10B and the external terminal 30 can be improved.

[0093] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of connector 10B1 in variant example 2. Figure 13 It means along Figure 12 A perspective view of connector 10B1 in the deformed state of the cross section of the B-B line, Example 2. Figure 12 For illustrative purposes, the external terminal 30 electrically connected to the connector 10B1 of Modified Example 2 is shown in the figure. The connector 10B1 of Modified Example 2 is the same as the connector 10B of Embodiment 2, except for the following points.

[0094] In the connector 10B1 of Modified Example 2, a pair of resilient support portions 134B divide a pair of protrusions 138B that project toward each other. In Modified Example 2, the pair of protrusions 138B are formed, for example, by pressure processing of the resilient support portions 134B. Figure 13 As shown, the pair of protrusions 138B are convexly curved. Therefore, with the external terminal 30 inserted through the gap between the pair of proximity contacts 136B, the two opposing sides of the external terminal 30 along the X direction contact the apexes of the pair of protrusions 138B. Thus, the contact position between the external terminal 30 and the proximity contacts 136B can be defined as the apex of the protrusion 138B. This makes the contact position between the external terminal 30 and the proximity contacts 136B clearly defined. Furthermore, it makes it difficult for the external terminal 30 to contact the -Z or +Z sides of the pair of proximity contacts 136B. Edges are easily formed on the -Z and +Z sides of the pair of proximity contacts 136B. In Modification 2, even if edges are formed on the -Z side and the +Z side of a pair of proximity contacts 136B, wear of the external terminal 30 caused by these edges of the pair of proximity contacts 136B can be suppressed during repeated electrical connections between the connector 10B1 and the external terminal 30.

[0095] The embodiments and variations of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various other configurations may also be employed.

[0096] According to this specification, connectors of the following types are provided.

[0097] (Method 1)

[0098] In Method 1, the connector is electrically connected to an external terminal, wherein the connector has: a plurality of contacts electrically connected to the external terminal; and a plurality of supports that elastically support the plurality of contacts in a manner that allows the plurality of contacts to contact the external terminal from different directions relative to each other.

[0099] "Contact portion" is equivalent to the "front end contact portion" of Embodiment 1, the "bending contact portion" of Modified Example 1, and the "proximity contact portion" of Embodiment 2 and Modified Example 2. "Support portion" is equivalent to the "elastic support portion" of Embodiment 1, Modified Example 1, Embodiment 2, and Modified Example 2.

[0100] According to the above method, there is no need to provide a separate support portion for the connector. Furthermore, compared to the case where the contact portion only contacts a portion of the terminal, the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector and the external terminal can be improved. Therefore, according to the above method, by simplifying the connector's construction and reducing its back profile, the reliability of repeated electrical connections between the connector and the external terminal can be improved.

[0101] (Method 2)

[0102] In Method 2, the plurality of contact portions are movable in a plane that is substantially parallel to the mounting direction in which the external terminal is mounted to the plurality of contact portions or the disassembly direction in which the external terminal is disassembled from the plurality of contact portions.

[0103] According to the above method, the support can elastically support multiple contact parts in a plane that is approximately parallel to the mounting direction or disassembly direction of the external terminals.

[0104] (Method 3)

[0105] In Method 3, the plurality of contact portions are movable in a plane substantially perpendicular to the mounting direction in which the external terminal is mounted to the plurality of contact portions or the disassembly direction in which the external terminal is disassembled from the plurality of contact portions.

[0106] According to the above method, the support can elastically support multiple contact parts in a plane that is approximately perpendicular to the mounting direction or disassembly direction of the external terminals.

[0107] (Method 4)

[0108] In method 4, the connector also has a limiting part that restricts the displacement of the plurality of contact portions.

[0109] The “restriction part” is equivalent to the “top plate” in Embodiment 1 and Modification 1, and the “elastic support part” in Embodiment 2 and Modification 2.

[0110] The above method can suppress excessive deformation of the support.

[0111] (Method 5)

[0112] In Method 5, the connector further has a guide portion that guides the external terminals toward the plurality of contacts.

[0113] The term "guide portion" is equivalent to the "guide bending surface" and "guide inclined surface" of Embodiment 1, the "guide bending surface" of Modified Example 1, the "guide bending surface" of Embodiment 2 and Modified Example 2, and the "elastic support portion".

[0114] Using the above method, external terminals can be easily guided toward multiple contacts.

Claims

1. A connector for electrical connection to external terminals, wherein, The connector has: Multiple contacts that are electrically connected to the external terminals; and Multiple support portions elastically support the multiple contacts in such a way that the multiple contacts contact the external terminals from different directions relative to each other.

2. The connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The plurality of contacts are movable in a plane substantially parallel to the mounting direction in which the external terminal is mounted to the plurality of contacts or the disassembly direction in which the external terminal is disassembled from the plurality of contacts.

3. The connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The plurality of contacts are movable in a plane substantially perpendicular to the mounting direction in which the external terminal is mounted to the plurality of contacts or the disassembly direction in which the external terminal is detached from the plurality of contacts.

4. The connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It also has a limiting part that restricts the displacement of the plurality of contact portions.

5. The connector as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It also has a guide portion that guides the external terminals toward the plurality of the contacts.

Images