Connecting structure of connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection structure of a connector. The connection structure includes a floating connector (FC) and a mating connector (MC2). The floating connector (FC) comprises a connector part (FC2) which can be releasably connected to the mating connector (MC2) in the Y-Y'direction. The connector portion (FC2) is supported by the support so as to be movable at least in a direction including a component in the Y-Y'direction. The connector portion (FC2) is transitionable from a semi-connected state to a fully connected state with respect to the mating connector (MC2). The connector portion (FC2) includes a rotating lever (600) rotatable between a first state and a second state. In the semi-connected state, by rotating the rotating lever (600) from the first state to the second state to press the abutting portion (14) of the mating connector (MC2) from the Y-direction side by the rotating lever (600), the connector portion (FC2) is moved relative to the mating connector (MC2) in the Y-direction and transitions from the semi-connected state to the fully connected state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the connection structure of connectors. Background Technology

[0002] JP2023-139357A describes a conventional connection structure for connectors. This connection structure includes a floating connector mounted on a circuit board and a mating connector.

[0003] The floating connector includes a housing and multiple terminals. The housing contains multiple receiving spaces to accommodate the respective terminals. The upper wall of the housing has multiple upper openings communicating with the corresponding receiving spaces.

[0004] Each terminal includes a fixed portion, a lower contact portion, an inverted Ω-shaped upper contact portion, and a generally L-shaped spring portion. The fixed portion is fixed to the lower part of the corresponding receiving space of the housing to be mounted on the lower wall of the housing. The lower contact portion extends forward from the corresponding fixed portion and bends downward such that the lower surface of the lower contact portion is at the same height as the bottom surface of the lower wall of the housing. The bottom surface of the lower wall of the housing can be mounted on a circuit board, and the lower contact portion can be connected to the circuit board. The upper contact portion includes a generally U-shaped main portion, a first end on the front side, and a second end on the rear side. The spring portion includes a first spring element and a second spring element. The first spring element (which is a plate-like portion suspended from the second end of the upper contact portion) extends in both vertical and horizontal directions. The second spring element (which is a plate-like portion suspended from the lower end of the corresponding first spring element to the corresponding fixed portion) extends in both vertical and horizontal directions.

[0005] The mating connector can be connected to the floating connector at a position offset forward from a predetermined connection position relative to the floating connector. In this case, the terminals of the mating connector are inserted from above through corresponding upper openings in the housing of the floating connector into corresponding receiving spaces within the housing, and into corresponding main portions of the upper contact portions of the floating connector terminals. At this time, the first spring elements of the plurality of terminals of the floating connector elastically deform in a forward tilting manner, and the second spring elements of the terminals elastically deform in an upward manner, causing the main portions of the upper contact portions of the terminals to shift forward following the corresponding terminals of the mating connector.

[0006] The mating connector can also be connected to the floating connector at a position offset rearward from the predetermined connection position relative to the floating connector. In this case, the terminals of the mating connector are inserted from above through the corresponding upper opening of the floating connector housing into the corresponding receiving space of the housing, and into the corresponding main portion of the upper contact portion of the floating connector terminal. At this time, the first spring elements of the plurality of terminals of the floating connector elastically deform in a rearward tilting manner, and the second spring elements of the terminals elastically deform in a downward sinking manner, so that the main portion of the upper contact portion of the terminal follows the rearward displacement of the corresponding terminal of the mating connector.

[0007] Therefore, the floating connector is configured such that the elastic deformation of the spring portions of the multiple terminals causes the main portion of the upper contact portion of the multiple terminals to float according to the displacement of the mating connector in the forward or backward direction. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] The aforementioned floating connector is configured such that multiple terminals of the mating connector are vertically inserted into the corresponding main portions of the upper contact portion of the floating connector's terminals. This configuration may result in a partial connection state, in which the multiple terminals of the mating connector are not fully inserted into the corresponding main portions of the upper contact portion of the floating connector's terminals.

[0010] This invention provides a connection structure for a connector that can resolve the issue of a half-connection state.

[0011] Solution to the problem

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, the connector connection structure (assembly) includes a floating connector and a mating connector. The floating connector includes a support member and a connector portion releasably connected to the mating connector in a first direction. The support member supports the connector portion so that it can move in a direction including at least the first direction component. The connector portion can transition from a semi-connected state to a fully connected state relative to the mating connector. The semi-connected state is a state in which the connector portion is at least mechanically half-connected to the mating connector from one side of the first direction and can move relative to the mating connector to the other side of the first direction. The fully connected state is a state in which the connector portion is mechanically and electrically fully connected to the mating connector from one side of the first direction and cannot move relative to the mating connector to the other side of the first direction. Either the connector portion or the mating connector is a main connector, and the other is a secondary connector. The main connector includes a rotating rod rotatable between a first state and a second state, and the secondary connector includes an abutment portion.

[0013] In the semi-connected state, by rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state, the rotating rod presses the abutment portion from one side of the sub-connector including the abutment portion in the first direction, causing the connector portion to move relative to the mating connector to the other side in the first direction, and changing from the semi-connected state to the fully connected state.

[0014] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0015] In the connection structure (combination) of such connectors, even in the half-connection state, the connector part can be connected to the mating connector in the fully connected state by rotating the rotating rod and pressing the abutment part from one side of the other connector in the first direction using the rotating rod. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the rear, top, and left sides of the connector connection structure (assembly) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The perspective view shows the state in which the floating connector is not yet connected to the first mating connector mounted on the first circuit board and the second mating connector mounted on the second circuit board, and the state in which the rotating rod is in the unlocked position.

[0017] Figure 1B This is a rear, top, and left perspective view of a connection structure (assembly) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The perspective view shows the state in which the floating connector has been connected to a first mating connector mounted on a first circuit board and a second mating connector mounted on a second circuit board, and the state in which the rotating rod is in the locked position.

[0018] Figure 2A It is along Figure 1B The first embodiment of the connection structure is shown in a cross-sectional view taken by line 2A-2A.

[0019] Figure 2B It is along Figure 1B The first embodiment of the connection structure is shown in a cross-sectional view taken by line 2B-2B.

[0020] Figure 2C It is along Figure 1B The first embodiment of the connection structure is shown in a cross-sectional view taken by line 2C-2C.

[0021] Figure 2D It is along Figure 1B A 2D-2D cut-out view of the connection structure of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3AThis is an enlarged perspective view taken from one side, showing the following state: one of the relay terminals of the floating connector is connected to one of the terminals of the first mating connector and one of the terminals of the second mating connector of the connection structure of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3B This is an enlarged perspective view viewed from the opposite side, showing a state in which one of the relay terminals of the floating connector is connected to one of the terminals of the first mating connector and one of the terminals of the second mating connector of the connection structure of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the front, top, and right sides of the floating connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the front, bottom, and left side of the floating connector in the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4C This is a perspective view of the rear, top, and right sides of the floating connector of the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 4D This is a perspective view of the rear, bottom, and left side of the floating connector of the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 5A It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5A-5A.

[0029] Figure 5B It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5B-5B.

[0030] Figure 5C It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5C-5C.

[0031] Figure 5D It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5D-5D.

[0032] Figure 5E It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5E-5E.

[0033] Figure 5F It is along Figure 4A The first embodiment of the floating connector is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 5F-5F.

[0034] Figure 5G It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the floating connector of the first embodiment of 5G-5G line cut in the middle.

[0035] Figure 6A This is an exploded perspective view of the front, top, and right sides of the floating connector of the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 6B This is an exploded perspective view of the rear, bottom, and left sides of the floating connector of the first embodiment.

[0037] Figure 7A This is an enlarged perspective view of the front, top, and right sides of one of the relay terminals of the floating connector in the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 7B This is an enlarged perspective view of the front, top, and left sides of one of the relay terminals of the floating connector in the first embodiment.

[0039] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of the rear, top, and left sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 8B This is a perspective view of the rear, bottom, and right sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0041] Figure 8C This is a perspective view of the front, top, and left sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0042] Figure 8D This is a perspective view of the front, bottom, and right sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9A It is along Figure 8A The first mating connector and the second mating connector of the first embodiment are cut by lines 9A-9A.

[0044] Figure 9B It is along Figure 8A The first mating connector and the second mating connector of the first embodiment are cut by line 9B-9B.

[0045] Figure 9C It is along Figure 8A The first mating connector and the second mating connector of the first embodiment are cut from line 9C-9C.

[0046] Figure 9D It is along Figure 8A The first mating connector and the second mating connector of the first embodiment are cut by line 9D-9D.

[0047] Figure 10A This is an exploded perspective view of the rear, top, and left sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 10B This is an exploded perspective view of the front, bottom, and right sides of the first and second mating connectors in the first embodiment.

[0049] Figure 11A This is an enlarged perspective view of the rear, top, and left sides of one of the terminals of the first mating connector and the second mating connector in the first embodiment.

[0050] Figure 11B This is an enlarged perspective view of the rear, top, and right sides of one of the terminals of the first mating connector and the second mating connector in the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 12A The connection structure (combination) according to the second embodiment of the present invention corresponds to Figure 2C A sectional view.

[0052] Figure 12B The connection structure (combination) according to the second embodiment corresponds to Figure 2D A sectional view.

[0053] List of reference numerals

[0054] FC: Floating Connector

[0055] FC1: First Connector Section

[0056] 100a: First Subject

[0057] 110a: First main body; 120a: First partition; 130a: Plate; 140a: Side wall

[0058] 210a: First contact portion; 220a: First retainable portion; 240a: First connecting portion

[0059] 300a: First outer casing

[0060] 310a: First outer shell body

[0061] FC2: Second Connector Section

[0062] 100b: Second Subject

[0063] 110b: Second main body; 120b: Second partition; 130b: Plate; 140b: Side wall

[0064] 210b: Second contact portion; 220b: Second retainable portion; 240b: Second connecting portion

[0065] 300b: Second shell

[0066] 310b: Second outer shell body

[0067] 400: Second housing

[0068] 410: Second housing body; 420: First guideable portion, second guideable portion

[0069] 200: Terminal

[0070] 230: Elastically deformable part

[0071] 500a: First Holder

[0072] 500b: Second Holder

[0073] 600: Rotating rod

[0074] 610: Rod body; 620: Screw or pin

[0075] 700: First casing

[0076] 710: First shell body

[0077] 711: Part One; 712: Part Two; 713: Part Three

[0078] 720: Maintain part

[0079] 730: Guide

[0080] 740: Separator

[0081] 800: First shielding component

[0082] 810: Main body of the first shielding component

[0083] 811: First shielding component; 812: Second shielding component; 813: Third shielding component

[0084] 900: Second shielding component

[0085] 910: Main body of the second shielding component

[0086] 920a: First connecting part; 920b: Second connecting part; 930: Third connecting part

[0087] MC1: First mating connector; MC2: Second mating connector

[0088] 10: First subject, second subject

[0089] 11: Base; 12: Protrusion; 13: Tubular portion; 14: Abutment portion; 15: Joint protrusion

[0090] 20: First terminal, second terminal

[0091] 21: First contact part, second contact part

[0092] 22: First retainable part, second retainable part

[0093] 23: First pin section, second pin section

[0094] 24: First connecting part, second connecting part

[0095] 30: First outer shell, second outer shell

[0096] 31: First outer shell body, second outer shell body

[0097] 32: First cover, second cover

[0098] 33: First leg, second leg

[0099] B1: First Circuit Board

[0100] B2: Second circuit board Detailed Implementation

[0101] Several embodiments of the present invention (including first and second embodiments and variations thereof) will now be described. It should be noted that the components of the embodiments and variations to be described can be combined in any possible manner. It should also be noted that the materials, shapes, sizes, quantities, arrangements, etc., of the components of the embodiments and variations to be described are presented by way of example only and can be modified in any way as long as the same function is achieved.

[0102] First Embodiment

[0103] In the following text, reference will now be made to Figures 1A to 11B The connection structure (combination) CB1 of the connector according to several embodiments (including the first embodiment of the present invention and its variations) is described. Figures 1A to 3B The connection structure CB1 of the first embodiment is shown. Figures 1A to 7B The floating connector FC of the connection structure CB1 of the first embodiment is shown. Figures 1A to 3B and Figures 8A to 11B The first mating connector MC1 and the second mating connector MC2 of the connection structure CB1 of the first embodiment are shown. Figures 1A to 2D The first circuit board B1 and the second circuit board B2 of the connection structure CB1 of the first embodiment are shown.

[0104] Figures 1A to 2A , Figures 2C to 5A , Figures 5D to 5C , Figures 6A to 9C and Figures 10A to 11B The Y-Y' direction (first direction) is shown. The Y-Y' direction includes the Y' direction (one side of the first direction) and the Y direction (the other side of the first direction). Figures 1A to 2B , Figures 3A to 5C , Figures 6A to 9A , Figures 9D to 11B The Z-Z' direction (second direction) is shown. The Z-Z' direction is substantially orthogonal to the Y-Y' direction and includes the Z' direction (one side of the second direction) and the Z direction (the other side of the second direction). Figure 1A and Figure 1B , Figures 2B to 4D , Figures 5B to 8D and Figures 9B to 11B The X-X' direction (third direction) is shown. The X-X' direction is substantially orthogonal to the Y-Y' and Z-Z' directions and includes the X direction (one side of the third direction) and the X' direction (the other side of the third direction).

[0105] The connection structure CB1 includes a floating connector FC (which may be simply referred to as "connector FC"), a first mating connector MC1, and a second mating connector MC2. The connection structure CB1 may include a first circuit board B1 and a second circuit board B2. Details of these components will now be described.

[0106] The connector FC includes at least one relay terminal 200 (which may be simply referred to as "at least one terminal 200"). The at least one terminal 200 may be a single terminal 200 or multiple terminals 200. For ease of illustration, at least one terminal 200 is described as multiple terminals 200. However, even when a single terminal 200 is provided, the terminal 200 may be configured similarly to each terminal 200.

[0107] Each terminal 200 is made of a conductive material. Each terminal 200 includes a first contact portion 210a, a first retainable portion 220a, a second contact portion 210b, a second retainable portion 220b, and an elastically deformable portion 230. Each terminal 200 may also include a first connecting portion 240a and a second connecting portion 240b.

[0108] The first retainable portion 220a can be made of a plate extending in the Y-Y' direction (see...). Figure 2A , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B It is composed of a rod (not shown) or a tube (not shown). The first retainable part 220a may be generally U-shaped in a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions and extend in the Y-Y' direction.

[0109] The second retainable portion 220b is disposed on the Z-direction side relative to the first retainable portion 220a. The second retainable portion 220b may be composed of a plate extending in the Y-Y' direction (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B It is composed of a rod (not shown) or a tube (not shown). The second retainable part 220b may be generally U-shaped in a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions and extend in the Y-Y' direction.

[0110] The first contact portion 210a only needs to extend from the first retainable portion 220a in the Y direction. For example, the first contact portion 210a may be a plate extending from the first retainable portion 220a in the Y direction (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B It is composed of a rod (not shown) or a tube (not shown). The first contact portion 210a may have a forked shape extending from the first retainable portion 220a in the Y direction, and includes a first contact arm and a second contact arm (not shown).

[0111] The second contact portion 210b is disposed on the Z-direction side relative to the first contact portion 210a. The second contact portion 210b only needs to extend from the second retainable portion 220b in the Y-direction. For example, the second contact portion 210b can be a plate extending from the second retainable portion 220b in the Y-direction (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B It is composed of a rod (not shown) or a tube (not shown). The second contact portion 210b may have a forked shape extending from the second retainable portion 220b in the Y direction, and includes a first contact arm and a second contact arm (not shown).

[0112] The elastically deformable portion 230 is disposed between the first retainable portion 220a and the second retainable portion 220b, and is elastically deformable in a direction including a component of at least one of the Z-Z, X-X, or Y-Y directions (this direction may be simply referred to as "the direction including a component of at least one direction"). The direction including a component of at least one direction may include a direction including components of multiple directions among the Z-Z, X-X, and Y-Y directions. For example, in a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z and Y-Y directions, the elastically deformable portion 230 may be a generally laterally oriented U-shape, a generally laterally oriented arc shape, or a generally laterally oriented V-shape, and is elastically deformable in a direction including a component of one of the Z-Z, X-X, or Y-Y directions, in a direction including two components of the Z-Z, X-X, and Y-Y directions, or in a direction including three components of the Z-Z, X-X, and Y-Y directions. The elastically deformable portion 230 includes a first end portion 231 on the Z' direction side, a second end portion 232 on the Z direction side, and a top portion 233. When the second end portion 232 shifts (moves away from) the first end portion 231 in a direction including the Z direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 elastically deforms in that direction. When the second end portion 232 shifts (moves towards) the first end portion 231 in a direction including the Z' direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 elastically deforms in that direction. When the second end portion 232 shifts (moves towards) the first end portion 231 in a direction including the Y direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 elastically deforms in that direction. When the second end portion 232 shifts (moves towards) the first end portion 231 in a direction including the Y' direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 elastically deforms in that direction. When the second end 232 is displaced from the first end 231 in a direction including the X-direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 thereby elastically deforms in the direction including the X-direction component. When the second end 232 is displaced from the first end 231 in a direction including the X'-direction component, the elastically deformable portion 230 thereby elastically deforms in the direction including the X'-direction component.

[0113] The first connecting portion 240a connects the elastically deformable portion 230 and the first retainable portion 220a, and the second connecting portion 240b connects the elastically deformable portion 230 and the second retainable portion 220b. The first connecting portion 240a may, for example, be a plate extending from the first end 231 of the elastically deformable portion 230 to the rear end of the first retainable portion 220a on the Y' direction side (see...). Figure 2A , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B The second connecting portion 240b may be constituted, for example, a plate extending from the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 to the rear end of the second retainable portion 220b in the Y' direction (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B It consists of a rod or a bar (not shown).

[0114] For example, each of the terminals 200 described above can be manufactured by rolling. Rolling includes repeatedly performing a rolling process to obtain a thin metal sheet by passing metal material between rolling rolls, and then stamping and cutting the metal sheet into a predetermined shape for the terminal, or includes performing similar processes. In this case, each terminal 200 also has the following configuration (1) or (2). Note that the X-X' direction is the thickness direction of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200. In other words, the X-X' direction is the thickness direction of the metal material constituting the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200.

[0115] (1) Each terminal 200 has a first surface on the X-direction side and a second surface on the X'-direction side, wherein the first and second surfaces are generally flat and extend in the Z-Z' and X-X' directions (not shown). The first and second surfaces of each terminal 200 are rolled surfaces. Specifically, the elastically deformable portion 230, the first connecting portion 240a, the second connecting portion 240b, the first retaining portion 220a, and the second retaining portion 220b of each terminal 200 are constituted by the aforementioned plate, and each has a first surface on the X-direction side and a second surface on the X'-direction side, which are generally flat rolled surfaces. The first contact portion 210a of each terminal 200 is constituted by the aforementioned plate or a pair of contact arms, and has a first surface 211a on the X-direction side and a second surface 212a on the X'-direction side, which are generally flat rolled surfaces. The second contact portion 210b of each terminal 200 is formed by the plate or the pair of contact arms described above, and has a first surface 211b on the X-direction side and a second surface 212b on the X'-direction side, which are generally flat rolled surfaces.

[0116] (2) In the above-described structure (1), at least part (i.e., partially or entirely) of the first connecting portion 240a of each terminal 200 is bent or flexed such that the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the first contact portion 210a are inclined in a first tilting direction including components of the Z-Z' and X-X' directions, and / or at least part (i.e., partially or entirely) of the second connecting portion 240b is bent or flexed such that the first surface 211b and the second surface 212b of the second contact portion 210b are inclined in a second tilting direction including components of the Z-Z' and X-X' directions (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B The first and second surfaces of the first retainable portion 220a are also inclined in the first inclined direction, similar to the first surfaces 211a and 212a of the first contact portion 210a. The first and second surfaces of the second retainable portion 220b are also inclined in the second inclined direction, similar to the first surfaces 211b and 212b of the second contact portion 210b. The first connecting portion 240a can be bent into a generally arcuate or generally U-shaped shape protruding in the X or X' direction, or it can be bent into a generally V-shaped shape protruding in the X or X' direction. The second connecting portion 240b can be bent into a generally arcuate or generally U-shaped shape protruding in the X or X' direction, or it can be bent into a generally V-shaped shape protruding in the X or X' direction. The first and second surfaces of the resiliently deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 remain generally flat surfaces extending in the Z-Z' and Y-Y' directions.

[0117] The first tilting direction and the second tilting direction can be the same direction, and the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the first contact portion 210a can have the same tilt as the first surface 211b and the second surface 212b of the second contact portion 210b (see 2A). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 5A as well as Figures 6A to 7B Alternatively, the first and second tilting directions can be different, and the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the first contact portion 210a can have different tilt angles (not shown) than the first surface 211b and the second surface 212b of the second contact portion 210b. In the former case, each terminal 200 can, but does not necessarily, be shaped to have such double rotational symmetry (see...). Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is such that, when viewed from the Y-direction side along the imaginary line P, the shape of each terminal 200 before rotating 180 degrees about the rotation axis overlaps with the shape of each terminal 200 after rotating 180 degrees about the rotation axis. The rotation axis is an imaginary line P extending approximately through the center of each terminal 200 in the Y-Y' direction (see [reference]). Figure 7A and Figure 7B ).

[0118] Each of the terminals 200 described above may be manufactured not by rolling but by other known methods for manufacturing terminals (e.g., photolithography or inkjet printing). In this case, each terminal 200 may have the above-described structure (1) or (2). Alternatively, the first and second surfaces of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 may be generally flat surfaces extending in the Z-Z' and Y-Y' directions, the first connecting portion 240a and the second connecting portion 240b of each terminal 200 may be composed of a plate or rod having a structure other than the above-described structures (1) and (2), the first retaining portion 220a and the second retaining portion 220b of each terminal 200 may be composed of a plate, rod, tube or generally U-shaped member having a structure other than the above-described structures (1) and (2), and the first contact portion 210a and the second contact portion 210b of each terminal 200 may be composed of a plate, rod, tube or a pair of contact arms having a structure other than the above-described structures (1) and (2). Alternatively, the resiliently deformable portion 230, the first connecting portion 240a, the second connecting portion 240b, the first retaining portion 220a, the second retaining portion 220b, the first contact portion 210a, and the second contact portion 210b of each terminal 200 may have any of the above-described configurations other than those described in (1) and (2).

[0119] When each terminal 200 has the above-described configuration (1) or (2), the dimension of the top 233 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 in the Y-Y' direction can be smaller than the dimension of each of the first end 231 and the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 in the Z-Z' direction. In this case, the Y-direction side end and / or the Y'-direction side end of the top 233 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 can be cut off (see...). Figure 7A and Figure 7B Alternatively, the top 233 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200 may have a dimension in the Y-Y' direction that is substantially the same as or greater than the dimension in the Z-Z' direction of each of the first end 231 and the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of each terminal 200.

[0120] The first connecting portion 240a and the second connecting portion 240b can be omitted. In this case, the first end 231 of the elastically deformable portion 230 can be connected to the first retainable portion 220a, and the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 can be connected to the second retainable portion 220b.

[0121] The connector FC also includes a first connector portion FC1. The first connector portion FC1 includes a first body 100a, a first retainable portion 220a of a plurality of terminals 200, and a first contact portion 210a of a plurality of terminals 200. The first connector portion FC1 may also include a first connecting portion 240a of a plurality of terminals 200 (if present).

[0122] The first body 100a only needs to be made of insulating material (e.g., insulating resin, etc.) and is configured to hold a first retainable portion 220a of a plurality of terminals 200 at intervals in the X-X' direction.

[0123] The first body 100a includes a first body main portion 110a. The first body main portion 110a holds first retainable portions 220a of a plurality of terminals 200 at intervals in the X-X' direction. First contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude or are exposed at least partially from the first body main portion 110a, making them visible from the Y-direction side. The first body main portion 110a and the plurality of terminals 200 may also have one of the following configurations (3-1) to (3-4).

[0124] (3-1) The first main body 110a includes a block 110a1 and a frustum 110a2. The block 110a1 of the first main body 110a extends in the Y-Y' direction and is composed of a polygonal prism (e.g., a quadrangular prism, see...). Figure 5A It is composed of a hexagonal prism (not shown), a cylinder (not shown), etc. The frustum 110a2 of the main body 110a (see Figure 5A It extends in the Y' direction from the block 110a1 of the main body 110a.

[0125] The block 110a1 of the first main body 110a has a plurality of retaining holes 111a, which extend through the block 110a1 in the Y-Y' direction and are spaced apart in the X-X' direction. The platform 110a2 of the first main body 110a has a plurality of retaining grooves 112a, which are spaced apart in the X-X' direction and arranged on the Y' direction side relative to the plurality of retaining holes 111a. The plurality of retaining grooves 112a are open in the Y, Y' and Z directions. The first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111a and the plurality of retaining grooves 112a from the Y' direction side. Therefore, the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are spaced apart in the first body 100a in the X-X' direction. The first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111a of the first body 100a in the Y direction. For example, the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude fully from the plurality of retaining holes 111a in the Y direction. Alternatively, the Y' direction side portion of the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may be accommodated in the plurality of retaining holes 111a, and the Y direction side portion of the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude from the plurality of retaining holes 111a in the Y direction.

[0126] (3-2) The block 110a1 of the main body 110a may also have a plurality of connecting holes (not shown) on the Y-direction side relative to the plurality of retaining holes 111a. The plurality of connecting holes are arranged at the same intervals as the plurality of retaining holes 111a in the X-X' direction, extend through the plurality of retaining holes 111a, and open in the Y-direction. In this case, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 are disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the first body 100a, and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y-direction. For example, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may be completely accommodated in the plurality of connecting holes, and the entirety or the Y'-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may be exposed from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y-direction. Alternatively, the Y'-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may be accommodated in the plurality of connecting holes, and the Y-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y-direction.

[0127] (3-3) The main body portion 110a may include a plurality of retaining holes 111a or a plurality of retaining grooves 112a (not shown). In this case, the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111a or a plurality of retaining grooves 112a from the Y' direction side. This configuration also allows the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 to be held in the first body 100a at intervals in the X-X' direction. The first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111a or a plurality of retaining grooves 112a of the first body 100a in the Y direction. For example, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude completely from the plurality of retaining holes 111a or a plurality of retaining grooves 112a in the Y direction. Alternatively, the Y' direction side portion of the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can be accommodated in the plurality of retaining holes 111a or the plurality of retaining grooves 112a, and the Y direction side portion of the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can protrude from the plurality of retaining holes 111a or the plurality of retaining grooves 112a in the Y direction. Note that if the plurality of retaining grooves 112a are not provided, the platform body 110a2 can be omitted. If the plurality of retaining holes 111a are not provided, the block body 110a1 can be omitted.

[0128] (3-4) The main body portion 110a may include a plurality of retaining holes 111a or a plurality of retaining grooves 112a and a plurality of connecting holes (not shown). The plurality of connecting holes are disposed in the block 110a1 of the main body portion 110a, arranged at the same intervals in the X-X' direction as the plurality of retaining holes 111a or the plurality of retaining grooves 112a, communicating with the plurality of retaining holes 111a or the plurality of retaining grooves 112a, and opening in the Y direction. In this configuration, the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111a or the plurality of retaining grooves 112a from the Y' direction side. This configuration also allows the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 to be held at intervals in the first body 100a in the X-X' direction. The first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the first body 100a, and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y direction. For example, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can be completely accommodated in the plurality of connection holes, and the entirety or the Y-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can be exposed from the plurality of connection holes in the Y direction. Alternatively, the Y'-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can be accommodated in the plurality of connection holes, and the Y-direction side portion of the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 can protrude from the plurality of connection holes in the Y direction. In addition, if the plurality of retaining grooves 112a are not provided, the platform body 110a2 can be omitted. If the plurality of retaining holes 111a are not provided, the block body 110a1 can be omitted.

[0129] The first retainable portion 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 is held in the first body 100a, such that the first contact portion 210a, the second contact portion 210b, the elastically deformable portion 230, the first connecting portion 240a (if provided) and the second connecting portion 240b (if provided) of the plurality of terminals 200 are arranged correspondingly at intervals in the X-X' direction.

[0130] The first body 100a may further include a plurality of first spacers 120a. The plurality of first spacers 120a extend from the main portion 110a of the first body in the Z direction and are spaced apart in the X-X' direction. The plurality of first spacers 120a includes multiple sets of two adjacent first spacers 120a adjacent to each other in the X-X' direction. When the plurality of terminals 200 have first connecting portions 240a, each of the first connecting portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 is disposed and guided between two adjacent spacers 120a in each set, enabling movement in a direction including at least one directional component. When the plurality of terminals 200 do not have first connecting portions 240a, the plurality of first spacers 120a may be omitted; alternatively, each of the first ends 231 of the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 may be disposed and guided between two adjacent spacers 120a in each set, enabling movement in a direction including at least one directional component.

[0131] The first body 100a may further include a plate 130a and / or a pair of sidewalls 140a. The plate 130a extends from the main portion 110a of the first body in the Y' direction. The pair of sidewalls 140a includes an X-direction sidewall 140a and an X'-direction sidewall 140a. The X-direction sidewall 140a is disposed on the X-direction side relative to the main portion 110a of the first body and the plate 130a. The X'-direction sidewall 140a is disposed on the X'-direction side relative to the main portion 110a of the first body and the plate 130a.

[0132] The connector FC may also include a first housing 300a that is conductive. The first housing 300a may be made of a conductive material (e.g., a metal plate, etc.), or may include an insulating material (e.g., an insulating resin, etc.) and a metal vapor-deposited on the inner or outer surface of the insulating material. The first housing 300a includes a first housing body 310a. In a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions, the first housing body 310a has a generally annular shape (polygonal annular shape, e.g., a generally quadrilateral annular shape (see...)). Figure 2B as well as Figures 5A to 6BThe first housing body 310a extends in the Y-Y' direction. The first housing body 310a has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the first body 100a in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The first housing body 310a at least partially accommodates the first body 100a from the Y' direction side. Therefore, the first contact portions 210a and the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed inside the first housing body 310a. The dimension of the first housing body 310a in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the first body 100a in the Y-Y' direction. The portion of the first housing body 310a relative to the first body 100a on the Y-direction side defines a first connection space. Note that when the first contact portion 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 protrudes at least partially from the first body 100a, the first contact portion 210a is at least partially disposed in the first connection space of the first housing body 310a.

[0133] The first housing 300a may further include at least one first wall 320a. The at least one first wall 320a extends from the first housing body 310a in the Z direction. For example, the at least one first wall 320a may include a pair of first walls 320a. The pair of first walls 320a includes an X-direction side first wall 320a (one of the first walls 320a) and an X'-direction side first wall 320a (the other first wall 320a). The X-direction side first wall 320a and the X'-direction side first wall 320a may be formed by cutting out a portion of the first housing body 310a (e.g., the Z-direction side wall) and bending said portion towards the Z-direction side, or alternatively, may extend in the Z direction from the X-direction side wall and the X'-direction side wall of the first housing body 310a, respectively. The X-direction side first wall 320a is arranged in a relationship spaced apart from the first connection portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 and is located on the X-direction side relative to the first connection portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200. The first wall 320a on the X' direction side is arranged in a relationship spaced apart from the first connection portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200, and is located on the X' direction side relative to the first connection portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200. Note that at least one first wall 320a may be a single wall and at least one first wall 320a may be omitted.

[0134] The first outer casing 300a may further include at least one first connecting portion 330a. The at least one first connecting portion 330a may be formed by cutting out a portion of the first outer casing body 310a and bending that portion outwards from the first outer casing body 310a (e.g., to the X-direction side, X'-direction side, or Z'-direction side). Alternatively, the at least one first connecting portion 330a may extend from the Y-direction side end of the first outer casing body 310a and be folded in the Y' direction. Note that... Figures 1A to 6B The at least one first connecting portion 330a shown includes an X-direction side first connecting portion 330a and an X'-direction side first connecting portion 330a. The X-direction side first connecting portion 330a extends from the Y-direction side end of the X-direction side wall of the first housing body 310a and folds towards the X-direction side and the Y'-direction side. The X'-direction side first connecting portion 330a extends from the Y-direction side end of the X'-direction side wall of the first housing body 310a and folds towards the X'-direction side and the Y'-direction side. The X-direction side first connecting portion 330a and the X'-direction side first connecting portion 330a are elastically deformable in a direction that approaches each other in the X-X' direction. Note that at least one first connecting portion 330a may be omitted.

[0135] The first outer casing 300a itself can be omitted.

[0136] The connector FC also includes a second connector portion FC2 (main connector) and a support member. The support member includes resiliently deformable portions 230 of a plurality of terminals 200. The second connector portion FC2 is disposed spaced apart from the first connector portion FC1 and is located on the Z-direction side relative to the first connector portion FC1. The second connector portion FC2 is configured such that when the resiliently deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 are resiliently deformed in a direction including at least one directional component, the resilient deformation causes the second connector portion FC2 to shift relative to the first connector portion FC1 from a first predetermined normal position relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction including at least one directional component. The resiliently deformable portions 230 can be resiliently deformed in such a way that they function as a support member.

[0137] The second connector section FC2 includes a second body 100b, a second retainable portion 220b of a plurality of terminals 200, and a second contact portion 210b of a plurality of terminals 200. The second connector section FC2 may also include a second connection portion 240b of a plurality of terminals 200 (if provided).

[0138] The second body 100b is made of an insulating material (e.g., insulating resin, etc.) and is disposed spaced apart from the first body 100a and located on the Z-direction side relative to the first body 100a. The second body 100b has a similar structure to the first body 100a. The second body 100b may be identical in shape to the first body 100a and may be oriented to be rotated approximately 180 degrees relative to the first body 100a (see [reference]). Figure 2B as well as Figures 5A to 6B Alternatively, the second body 100b has a similar construction to the first body 100a, but may have a different shape (not shown). The second body 100b differs from the first body 100a in the following respects.

[0139] The second main body portion 110b of the second body 100b holds second retainable portions 220b of a plurality of terminals 200 at intervals in the X-X' direction. Second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from or are exposed from the second main body portion 110b, making them visible from the Y-direction side. The second main body portion 110b and the plurality of terminals 200 may also have one of the following configurations (4-1) to (4-4).

[0140] (4-1) When the main body portion 110b includes a plurality of retaining holes 111b and a plurality of retaining grooves 112b, the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111b and the plurality of retaining grooves 112b from the Y' direction side. The second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111b of the second body 100b in the Y direction. For example, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111b of the second body 100b in the Y direction, similar to the configuration described in (3-1). The plurality of retaining grooves 112b are open in the Y direction, the Y' direction, and the Z' direction.

[0141] (4-2) When the main body portion 110b includes a plurality of retaining holes 111b, a plurality of retaining grooves 112b, and a plurality of connecting holes, the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111b and the plurality of retaining grooves 112b from the Y' direction side. The second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the second body 100b, and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y direction. For example, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 may be at least partially disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the second body 100b, and may be at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y direction in a manner similar to the configuration described in (3-2) above.

[0142] (4-3) When the main body portion 110b includes a plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b, the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b from the Y' direction side. The second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b of the second body 100b in the Y direction. For example, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 may protrude at least partially from the plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b of the second body 100b in the Y direction in a manner similar to the configuration described in (3-3).

[0143] (4-4) When the main body portion 110b includes a plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b and a plurality of connecting holes, the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are securely received in the plurality of retaining holes 111b or a plurality of retaining grooves 112b from the Y' direction side. The second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the second body 100b, and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y direction. For example, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 may be at least partially disposed in the plurality of connecting holes of the second body 100b, and may be at least partially exposed or protruding from the plurality of connecting holes in the Y direction in a manner similar to the above-described configuration (3-4).

[0144] The second retainable portion 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 is held in the second body 100b such that the first contact portion 210a, the second contact portion 210b, the elastically deformable portion 230, the first connection portion 240a (if provided) and the second connection portion 240b (if provided) of the plurality of terminals 200 are arranged at intervals in the X-X' direction.

[0145] When the second body 100b also includes a plurality of second partitions 120b, the plurality of second partitions 120b extend from the main portion 110b of the second body in the Z' direction and are arranged at intervals in the X-X' direction. The plurality of second partitions 120b includes multiple sets of two adjacent second partitions 120b that are adjacent in the X-X' direction. When a plurality of terminals 200 are provided with second connection portions 240b, each of the second connection portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 is provided and guided between two adjacent partitions 120b in each set, so that it can move in a direction including at least one directional component. When the plurality of terminals 200 are not provided with second connection portions 240b, the plurality of second partitions 120b may be omitted, or alternatively, each of the second ends 232 of the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 may be provided and guided between two adjacent partitions 120b in each set, so that it can move in a direction including at least one directional component.

[0146] The second body 100b may or may not include the plate 130b and / or a pair of sidewalls 140b.

[0147] The second connector portion FC2 may further include a conductive second housing 300b. The second housing 300b has a similar construction to the first housing 300a. The second housing 300b may be identical in shape to the first housing 300a and may be oriented to be rotated approximately 180 degrees relative to the first housing 300a (see [reference]). Figure 2A , 2B as well as Figures 4A to 6B Alternatively, the second housing 300b has a similar construction to the first housing 300a, but may have a different shape (not shown). The second housing 300b differs from the first housing 300a in the following ways.

[0148] In the cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions, the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b has a generally annular shape (polygonal annular shape, for example, a generally quadrilateral annular shape (see...) Figure 2B as well as Figures 5A to 6BThe second housing body 310b extends in the Y-Y' direction. The second housing body 310b has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the second body 100b in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The second housing body 310b at least partially accommodates the second body 100b from the Y' direction side. Therefore, the second contact portion 210b and the second retainable portion 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed in the second housing body 310b. The dimension of the second housing body 310b in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the second body 100b in the Y-Y' direction. The portion of the second housing body 310b relative to the second body 100b on the Y-direction side defines a second connection space. Note that when the second contact portion 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 protrudes at least partially from the second body 100b, the second contact portion 210b is at least partially disposed in the second connection space of the second housing body 310b.

[0149] The second housing 300b may further include at least one second wall 320b. The at least one second wall 320b extends from the second housing body 310b in the Z' direction. For example, the at least one second wall 320b may include a pair of second walls 320b. The pair of second walls 320b includes an X-direction side second wall 320b (one of the second walls 320b) and an X'-direction side second wall 320b (the other second wall 320b). The X-direction side second wall 320b and the X'-direction side second wall 320b may be formed by cutting out a portion of the second housing body 310b (e.g., the Z'-direction side wall) and bending these portions toward the Z'-direction side, or alternatively, may extend in the Z' direction from the X-direction side wall and the X'-direction side wall of the second housing body 310b, respectively. The X-direction side second wall 320b is arranged in a relationship spaced apart from the second connection portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 and is located on the X-direction side relative to the second connection portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200. The second wall 320b on the X' direction side is provided in a relationship spaced apart from the second connection portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200, and is located on the X' direction side relative to the second connection portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200. Note that at least one second wall 320b may be a single wall and at least one second wall 320b may be omitted.

[0150] The second housing 300b may further include at least one second connecting portion 330b. The at least one second connecting portion 330b may be formed by cutting out a portion of the second housing body 310b and bending that portion outwards from the second housing body 310b (e.g., to the X-direction side, X'-direction side, or Z'-direction side). Alternatively, the at least one second connecting portion 330b may extend from the Y-direction side end of the second housing body 310b and be folded in the Y' direction. Note that... Figure 2B as well as Figures 4A to 6B The at least one second connecting portion 330b shown includes a second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side and a second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side. The second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side extends from the Y-direction side end of the wall on the X-direction side of the second housing body 310b and folds towards the X and Y' directions. The second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side extends from the Y-direction side end of the wall on the X'-direction side of the second housing body 310b and folds towards the X' and Y' directions. The second connecting portions 330b on the X-direction side and the second connecting portions 330b on the X'-direction side are elastically deformable in a direction in which they approach each other in the X-X' direction. Note that at least one second connecting portion 330b may also be omitted.

[0151] Note that the second outer casing 300b itself can be omitted.

[0152] The second connector part FC2 may also include a second housing 400. The second housing 400 is made of an insulating material (e.g., insulating resin, etc.) and holds the second outer shell 300b.

[0153] The second housing 400 includes a second housing body 410. The second housing body 410 has a generally U-shaped profile in cross-sectional views along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions (see...). Figure 2B as well as Figures 4A to 6B The second housing body 410 extends in the Y-Y' direction. The second housing body 410 has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the second housing body 310b in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions of the second housing 300b. The second housing body 410 securely accommodates the second housing body 310b from the Y' direction side.

[0154] The second housing body 410 may include a distal portion on the Y-direction side and a rear portion on the Y'-direction side. The distal portion of the second housing body 410 includes a top plate 411 on the Z-direction side, a side wall 412 on the X-direction side, and a side wall 413 on the X'-direction side. The rear portion of the second housing body 410 includes a top plate 414 on the Z-direction side, a side wall 415 on the X-direction side, and a side wall 416 on the X'-direction side. The top plate 414 extends from the top plate 411 in the Y' direction. The side wall 415 extends from the side wall 412 in the Y' direction. The side wall 416 extends from the side wall 413 in the Y' direction. The rear portion of the second housing body 410 may or may not include the rear wall on the Y-direction side. When the second housing body 410 has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional view as described above, at least one second wall 320b of the second outer shell 300b (if provided) extends through the space between side walls 415 and 416 of the second housing body 410, positioned relative to the second housing body 410 on the Z' direction side. When the second housing body 410 has a generally annular shape as described above, the second housing body 410 includes a bottom on the Z' direction side, which is provided with at least one slot extending through the bottom in the Z-Z' direction and opening in the Y direction, and at least one second wall 320b of the second outer shell 300b (if provided) extends through said at least one slot, positioned relative to the second housing body 410 on the Z' direction side.

[0155] The rear wall of the second housing body 410 may be provided with a retaining base 417 extending from the rear wall in the Y direction. The retaining base 417 may abut against the second connection portion 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y' direction side (if provided), or it may not abut against it. The retaining base 417 faces the top plate 414 and has a first gap 418 between them (see...). Figure 5A The first gap 418 extends within the second housing body 410 in the Y-Y' direction and opens in the Y, X, and X' directions. The dimension of the first gap 418 in the Z-Z' direction is approximately the same as the sum of the dimension of the plate 130b of the second body 100b in the Z-Z' direction and the dimension of the portion of the wall on the Z-direction side of the second housing body 310b (located on the plate 130b) in the Z-direction direction. The first gap 418 suitably and securely receives the portion of the sidewall on the Z-direction side of the plate 130b and the second housing body 310b. The base 417 faces the sidewall 415 with a second gap between them, and faces the sidewall 416 with a third gap between them (see...). Figure 5GThe second gap receives the Y'-direction side portion of the X-direction sidewall 140b of the second body 100b and the Y'-direction side portion of the X-direction sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b on the second body 100b. The third gap receives the Y'-direction side portion of the X'-direction sidewall 140b of the second body 100b and the Y'-direction side portion of the X'-direction sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b on the second body 100b. Note that the retaining base 417 can be omitted.

[0156] The first locking hole 460 may be disposed in the X-direction side portion of the top plate 411 and the side wall 412, and the second locking hole 460 may be disposed in the X'-direction side portion of the top plate 411 and the side wall 413. The first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460 extend in the Z-Z' direction and open in the Z' direction. Note that the first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460 may be omitted.

[0157] Sidewalls 415 and 416 may each be provided with a first guideable portion 420 and a second guideable portion 420. The first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 are recesses or holes respectively provided in sidewalls 415 and 416, and open in the X direction and X' direction respectively. The first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 may also open in the Y' direction. Note that the first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 may be omitted.

[0158] The top plate 414 may be provided with a shaft 430. The shaft 430 may be a cylinder extending from the top plate 414 in the Z direction and having a shaft hole in its central portion. Alternatively, the shaft 430 may be a shaft hole in the top plate 414. The top plate 414 has a dome-shaped X-direction side locking protrusion 450 in the portion on the X direction side relative to the shaft 430, and a dome-shaped X' direction side locking protrusion 450 in the portion on the X' direction side relative to the shaft 430.

[0159] The side wall 412 on the X-direction side may be provided with a guide groove extending in the Y-Y' direction on the X-direction side, and the side wall 413 on the X' direction side may be provided with a guide groove extending in the Y-Y' direction on the X' direction side (see...). Figures 4A to 6BIn this case, the second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side of the second housing 300b is disposed on the X-direction side relative to the sidewall 412 of the second housing body 410, and the distal portion of the second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side can be guided to move in the Y-Y' direction within the guide groove on the X-direction side. The second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b is disposed on the X'-direction side relative to the sidewall 413 of the second housing body 410, and the distal portion of the second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side can be guided to move in the Y-Y' direction within the guide groove on the X-direction side.

[0160] The rear portion of the second housing body 410 can be integrated with the second body 100b. The second housing 400 itself can be omitted.

[0161] The second connector FC2 also includes a rotating rod 600. The rotating rod 600 has a rod body 610 and a screw or pin 620. The rod body 610 may include a disc 610a and a handle 610b extending from the disc 610a. A shaft hole 611 is provided in the central portion of the disc 610a. When the shaft 430 of the second housing 400 is constructed of the aforementioned cylinder, the shaft 430 is received in the shaft hole 611, and the screw or pin 620 is fixedly received in the shaft hole of the shaft 430. In this case, the rod body 610 can be in an unlocked position around the shaft 430 on the rear portion of the second housing 400 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2D ) and locking location (see Figure 2C Rotate between ).

[0162] When the shaft hole in the top plate 414 of the second housing 400 replaces the shaft 430 of the second housing 400, the shaft hole of the second housing 400 communicates with the shaft hole 611 of the rod body 610, and the screw or pin 620 is fixedly received in the shaft 430 and the shaft hole of the second housing 400. In this case, the rod body 610 can rotate about the screw or pin 620 on the rear portion of the second housing 400 between an unlocked position and a locked position.

[0163] In either case, the rotation axis P1 of the rotating rod 600 (see...) Figure 2D The axis of rotation of the screw or pin 620 is the central axis and extends in the Z-Z' direction. In other words, the axial direction of the axis of rotation P1 of the rotating rod 600 corresponds to the Z-Z' direction.

[0164] Figure 2D The first state is shown, in which the lever body 610 is in the unlocked position (this state can be simply referred to as the "unlocked state") and the handle 610b of the lever body 610 points in the X' direction. Figure 2CA second state is shown in which the lever body 610 is in the locked position (this state may be simply referred to as the "locked state") and the handle 610b of the lever body 610 points in the X direction. Alternatively, the handle 610b of the lever body 610 in the unlocked state may point in the X direction, and the handle 610b of the lever body 610 in the locked state may point in the X' direction.

[0165] Locking groove 613 is provided on the Z' direction side surface of the disc of rod body 610 (in Figure 2C , Figure 2D and Figure 6B In the middle, on the Z' direction side of the disk 610a), the locking groove 613 has a generally arcuate shape and surrounds the shaft hole 611. The locking groove 613 is recessed in the Z direction and open in the Z' direction (see...). Figure 5B , Figure 5C and Figure 6B In the unlocked state, the locking groove 613 has a generally arcuate shape that protrudes to the X or X' direction. The locking groove 613 will be described below.

[0166] A locking recess 614 is provided on the Z' direction side surface of the distal portion of the handle 610b of the lever body 610. In the locked state, the locking protrusion 450 on the X direction side of the second housing 400 engages in the locking recess 614 to temporarily lock the lever body 610. In the unlocked state, the locking protrusion 450 on the X' direction side of the second housing 400 engages in the locking recess 614 to temporarily lock the lever body 610.

[0167] The lever body 610 can be composed of a disc 610a or a handle 610b. In the former case, the locking groove 613 and the locking recess 614 can be provided on the Z' direction side surface of the disc 610a. In the latter case, the locking groove 613 and the locking recess 614 can be provided on the Z' direction side surface of the handle 610b.

[0168] At the boundary between top plate 411 and top plate 414, a pair of stops 440 protruding in the Z direction may be provided. The pair of stops 440 includes a first stop 440 on the X direction side and a second stop 440 on the X' direction side. In the locked state, the first stop 440 is located on the Y direction side relative to the handle 610b of the rod body 610 and abuts against the handle 610b from the Y direction side. In the unlocked state, the second stop 440 is located on the Y direction side relative to the handle 610b of the rod body 610 and abuts against the handle 610b from the Y direction side. Therefore, the pair of stops 440 defines the rotation range of the rotating rod 600. The pair of stops 440 may be omitted.

[0169] The second housing 400 can be omitted. In this case, the second body 100b is not provided with the shaft 430 or shaft hole, and the rotating rod 600 is configured as described above, except that the rotating rod 600 is rotatably supported on the second body 100b.

[0170] The connector FC may also include a second retainer 500b. The second retainer 500b is made of insulating resin or the like. The second retainer 500b includes a retainer body 510b, a first locking member 520b, and a second locking member 520b. The retainer body 510b extends in the X-X' direction. The first locking member 520b and the second locking member 520b extend from the retainer body 510b in the Z direction and are spaced apart from each other in the X-X' direction. The first locking member 520b and the second locking member 520b are respectively received in the first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460 of the second housing 400 from the Z' direction side, and the distal portions of the first locking member 520b and the second locking member 520b are provided with corresponding lugs that are respectively locked in the first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460. In this locked state, the Y-direction side surface of the retainer body 510b abuts against the Y-direction side surface of the first locking hole 460 and the Y-direction side surface of the second housing 400, and the Y'-direction side surface of the retainer body 510b abuts against the Y-direction side surface of the portion of the second body 100b that connects the main portion 110b of the second body and the second separator 120b. Also in the locked state, the retainer body 510b abuts against the second outer shell body 310b of the second outer shell 300b housed in the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 from the Z'-direction side, or alternatively, the retainer body 510b faces the second outer shell body 310b of the second outer shell 300b housed in the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 from the Z'-direction side, such that the retainer body 510b is located near the second outer shell body 310b with a gap between them. Therefore, the second retainer 500b can be used to secure the second outer shell body 310b to the second housing body 410. Note that both the second retainer 500b and the second housing 400 can be omitted. Even when the second housing 400 is provided, the second retainer 500b can be omitted.

[0171] The connector FC may also include a first housing 700. The first housing 700 is made of an insulating material (e.g., insulating resin). The first housing 700 includes a first housing body 710, which has a generally U-shaped profile in a cross-sectional view along the X-X' and Y-Y' directions. The first housing body 710 may include a first portion 711, a second portion 712, and a third portion 713. The first portion 711 is a wall on the Y' direction side of the first housing body 710. The second portion 712 is a wall on the X direction side of the first housing body 710 and extends in the Y direction from the end of the first portion 711 on the X direction side. A receiving groove 712a (third receiving groove) extending in the Y-Y' direction may be provided on the side of the second portion 712 on the X direction side. The receiving groove 712a is open in both the Y and X directions. The third portion 713 is a wall on the X' direction side of the first housing body 710 that extends in the Y direction from the end of the first portion 711 on the X' direction side. The third part 713 may have a receiving groove 713a (third receiving groove) extending in the Y-Y' direction on its X' side. The receiving groove 713a is open in both the Y and X' directions. The receiving grooves 712a and 713a may be omitted.

[0172] The first housing 700 also includes a retaining portion 720. The retaining portion 720 is disposed on the Z' direction side of the first housing body 710 and retains the first connector portion FC1.

[0173] The retaining portion 720 has, for example, a generally U-shape in the cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions (see...). Figure 2B as well as Figures 4A to 6B The retaining portion 720 has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The retaining portion 720 securely accommodates the first housing body 310a at least partially from the Y-direction side. Note that if the first housing 300a is omitted, the retaining portion 720 securely accommodates the first body 100a at least partially from the Y-direction side.

[0174] The retaining portion 720 includes a bottom 721 on the Z' direction side, a sidewall 722 on the X direction side, and a sidewall 723 on the X' direction side. The retaining portion 720 includes a distal portion and a rear portion. The distal portion of the retaining portion 720 is formed by corresponding portions of the bottom 721, sidewall 722, and sidewall 723 on the Y direction side, and is located on the Y direction side relative to the first housing body 710. The rear portion of the retaining portion 720 is formed by corresponding portions of the bottom 721, sidewall 722, and sidewall 723 on the Y' direction side, and is located inside the first housing body 710. When the retaining portion 720 has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional view as described above, at least one first wall 320a (if provided) of the first housing 300a extends through the space between the sidewalls 722 and 723 of the retaining portion 720 to be located on the Z direction side relative to the retaining portion 720. In the case where the retaining portion 720 has a generally annular shape in the above cross-sectional view, the retaining portion 720 includes a top on the Z-direction side, the top being provided with at least one slit that extends through the top in the Z-Z' direction and opens in the Y direction, and at least one first wall 320a of the first housing 300a (if provided) extends through the at least one slit to be located on the Z-direction side relative to the retaining portion 720.

[0175] The retaining portion 720 may further include a retaining base 724 extending in the Y direction from the first portion 711 of the first housing 700. The retaining base 724 may abut against the first connection portion 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y' direction side (if provided), or it may not abut against it. The retaining base 724 faces the bottom 721 (see...). Figure 5A The first gap 725 extends within the retaining portion 720 in the Y-Y' direction and opens in the Y, X, and X' directions. The dimension of the first gap 725 in the Z-Z' direction is approximately the same as the sum of the Z-Z' direction dimension of the plate 130a of the first body 100a and the Z-Z' direction dimension of the portion of the wall on the Z' direction side of the first housing body 310a located on the plate 130a in the Y' direction direction. The first gap 725 suitably and securely receives the plate 130a and the portion of the wall on the Z' direction side of the first housing body 310a in the Y' direction direction. The retaining base 724 faces the sidewall 722 with a second gap between them, and faces the sidewall 723 with a third gap between them (see...). Figure 5FThe second gap receives the Y'-direction side portion of the X-direction sidewall 140a of the first body 100a and the Y'-direction side portion of the X-direction sidewall of the first outer shell body 310a on the first body 100a. The third gap receives the Y'-direction side portion of the X'-direction sidewall 140a of the first body 100a and the Y'-direction side portion of the X'-direction sidewall of the first outer shell body 310a on the first body 100a. Note that the retaining base 724 can be omitted.

[0176] The first locking hole 726 may be disposed in the X-direction side portion of the bottom 721 and the sidewall 722, and the second locking hole 726 may be disposed in the X'-direction side portion of the bottom 721 and the sidewall 723. The first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726 extend in the Z-Z' direction and open in the Z direction. Note that the first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726 may be omitted.

[0177] The side wall 722 on the X-direction side may be provided with a guide groove extending in the Y-Y' direction on the X-direction side, and the side wall 723 on the X' direction side may be provided with a guide groove extending in the Y-Y' direction on the X' direction side (see...). Figure 2B as well as Figures 4A to 6B In this case, the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side of the first housing 300a is disposed on the X-direction side relative to the sidewall 722 of the retaining portion 720, and the distal portion of the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side can be guided to move in the Y-Y' direction within the guide groove on the X-direction side. The first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side of the first housing 300a is disposed on the X'-direction side relative to the sidewall 723 of the retaining portion 720, and the distal portion of the first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side can be guided to move in the Y-Y' direction within the guide groove on the X'-direction side.

[0178] The first housing 700 may further include at least one guide 730. The at least one guide 730 movably guides the second connector portion FC2 in a direction including at least one directional component. The at least one guide 730 may include a first guide 730 on the X-direction side and a second guide 730 on the X'-direction side.

[0179] With the first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 of the second housing 400 provided, the first guide 730 is a protrusion protruding from the second portion 712 of the first housing body 710 toward the X' direction side, and is received in the first guideable portion 420 from the X direction side so as to be movable in a direction including at least one directional component, and the second guide 730 is a protrusion protruding from the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 toward the X direction side, and is received in the second guideable portion 420 from the X' direction side so as to be movable in a direction including at least one directional component (see...). Figure 5B and Figure 5G Therefore, the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 movably guide the second housing 400 (i.e., the second connector portion FC2) in a direction including at least one directional component. When the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 are respectively movable in the first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 in a direction including a Z-Z' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is smaller than the dimension of the first guideable portion 420 in the Z-Z' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is smaller than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 in the Z-Z' direction. The linear distance in the Z-Z' direction between the Z-direction side surface of the first guide 730 and the Z'-direction side surface of the first guideable portion 420, and the linear distance in the Z-Z' direction between the Z-direction side surface of the second guide 730 and the Z'-direction side surface of the second guideable portion 420, can each be set to a limit or can each be greater than the range of movement of the second connector portion FC2 relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction including the Z-direction component.

[0180] When the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 are respectively movable in the first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 in a direction including the X-X' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the X-X' direction is smaller than the dimension of the first guideable portion 420 in the X-X' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the X-X' direction is smaller than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 in the X-X' direction. The straight-line distance in the X-X' direction between the X' direction side surface of the first guide 730 and the X' direction side surface of the first guideable portion 420, and the straight-line distance in the X-X' direction between the X' direction side surface of the second guide 730 and the X' direction side surface of the second guideable portion 420, can each be set to be limited or can each be greater than the range of movement of the second connector portion FC2 relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction including the X-X' direction component.

[0181] When the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 are respectively movable in the first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 in a direction including the Y-Y' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is smaller than the dimension of the first guideable portion 420 in the Y-Y' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is smaller than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 in the Y-Y' direction. The straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction between the Y-direction side surface of the first guide 730 and the Y'-direction side surface of the first guideable portion 420, and the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction between the Y-direction side surface of the second guide 730 and the Y'-direction side surface of the second guideable portion 420, can each be set to be limited or can each be greater than the range of movement of the second connector portion FC2 relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction including the Y-direction component.

[0182] Note that the second housing 400 may be provided with a first guide 730 and a second guide 730, and the second part 712 and the third part 713 of the first housing body 710 may be provided with a first guideable part 420 and a second guideable part 420, respectively.

[0183] When the first housing 700 is provided with a first guide 730 and a second guide 730 but neither the first guideable portion 420 nor the second guideable portion 420 is provided, the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 are guide recesses or guide holes respectively provided in the second portion 712 and the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710, and are respectively received in the sidewalls 415 and 416 of the second housing 400 in a direction that includes at least one directional component. In other words, the sidewalls 415 and 416 of the second housing 400 are respectively received in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 in a direction that allows them to move in a direction that includes at least one directional component. When sidewalls 415 and 416 are movable in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 in a direction including a component of the Z-Z' direction, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is larger than the dimension of the sidewall 415 in the Z-Z' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is larger than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 (or sidewall 416) in the Z-Z' direction. When sidewalls 415 and 416 are movable in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 in a direction including a component of the X-X' direction, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the X-X' direction is larger than the dimension of the sidewall 415 in the X-X' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the X-X' direction is larger than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 (or sidewall 416) in the X-X' direction. When the sidewalls 415 and 416 are movable in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 in a direction including a component of the Y-Y' direction, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the sidewall 415 in the Y-Y' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the second guideable portion 420 (or the sidewall 416) in the Y-Y' direction.

[0184] When the second housing 400 is omitted, the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 are guide recesses or guide holes respectively provided in the second portion 712 and the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710, and respectively accommodate the X-direction side and X'-direction side ends of the second connector portion FC2 (the X-direction side and X'-direction side ends of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 (if the second housing 300b is provided), or alternatively, the X-direction side and X'-direction side ends of the second main body main portion 110b of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2) in a direction that can be moved in a direction that includes at least one directional component. In other words, the X-direction side and X'-direction side ends of the second connector portion FC2 are respectively accommodated in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 in a direction that can be moved in a direction that includes at least one directional component. When the ends of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side and X'-direction side are movable in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 respectively in a direction including the Z-Z' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side in the Z-Z' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Z-Z' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X'-direction side in the Z-Z' direction. When the ends of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side and X'-direction side are movable in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 respectively in a direction including the X-X' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the X-X' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side in the X-X' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the X-X' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X'-direction side in the X-X' direction. When the ends of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side and the X'-direction side can move in the first guide 730 and the second guide 730 respectively in a direction including the Y-Y' direction component, the dimension of the first guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X-direction side in the Y-Y' direction, and the dimension of the second guide 730 in the Y-Y' direction is larger than the dimension of the end of the second connector portion FC2 on the X'-direction side in the Y-Y' direction.

[0185] The first guideable portion 420 and the second guideable portion 420 may be respectively disposed in the X-direction side end and the X'-direction side end of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 (if the second housing 300b is provided) and / or respectively disposed in the X-direction side end and the X'-direction side end of the second main body main portion 110b of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2.

[0186] Note that the above-mentioned at least one guide 730 can be a single guide 730. The above-mentioned at least one guide 730 can be omitted.

[0187] The first housing 700 may further include a plurality of spacers 740. The plurality of spacers 740 extend from a first portion 711 of the first housing 700 in the Y direction and are spaced apart in the X-X' direction. The plurality of spacers 740 includes multiple sets of two adjacent spacers 740 adjacent to each other in the X-X' direction. The top 233 of each elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 is disposed between two adjacent spacers 740 in each set. Each of the tops 233 of the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 may be guided between two adjacent spacers 740 in each set so as to be movable in a direction including at least one directional component, but this is not required. The plurality of spacers 740 may be omitted.

[0188] The first housing 700 may further include a locking arm 750. The locking arm 750 is disposed in the bottom 721 of the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700 and extends in the Y direction. The locking arm 750 may be omitted.

[0189] The second connector portion FC2 can be configured such that when the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 elastically deform in a direction including the Y-Y' direction, the elastic deformation causes the second connector portion FC2 to shift relative to the first connector portion FC1 from a first predetermined normal position relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction including the Y-Y' direction. If the second connector portion FC2 is configured to not shift in the Z-Z' direction, the first housing 700 may include a first limiting wall (not shown) abutting against the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portions 230 of the second connector portion FC2 or the plurality of terminals 200 from the Z-direction side and the Z'-direction side to limit the shift of the second end 232 in the Z-Z' direction. The first limiting wall may be configured not to prevent the shift of the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portions 230 of the second connector portion FC2 or the plurality of terminals 200 in the X-X' and Y-Y' directions. When the second connector portion FC2 is configured to be unable to displace in the X-X' direction, the first housing 700 may include a second limiting wall (not shown) that abuts against the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of the second connector portion FC2 or the plurality of terminals 200 from the X-direction side and the X'-direction side to limit the displacement of the second end 232 in the X-X' direction. The second limiting wall may be configured not to prevent the second end 232 of the elastically deformable portion 230 of the second connector portion FC2 or the plurality of terminals 200 from displacing in the Z-Z' direction and the Y-Y' direction.

[0190] The first housing 700 itself can be omitted.

[0191] The connector FC may also include a first retainer 500a. The first retainer 500a is made of an insulating resin or the like. The first retainer 500a includes a retainer body 510a, a first locking member 520a, and a second locking member 520a. The retainer body 510a extends in the X-X' direction. The first locking member 520a and the second locking member 520a extend from the retainer body 510a in the Z' direction and are spaced apart from each other in the X-X' direction. The first locking member 520a and the second locking member 520a are respectively received from the Z-direction side in the first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726 of the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, and the distal portions of the first locking member 520a and the second locking member 520a are provided with corresponding lugs that are respectively locked in the first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726. In this locked state, the Y-direction side surface of the retainer body 510a abuts against the Y-direction side surface of the first locking hole 726 and the Y-direction side surface of the second locking hole 726 of the retaining portion 720, and the Y'-direction side surface of the retainer body 510a abuts against the Y'-direction side surface of the portion of the first body 100a that connects the main portion 110a of the first body and the first separator 120a. Furthermore, in the locked state, the retainer body 510a abuts against the first outer shell body 310a of the first outer shell 300a held in the retaining portion 720 from the Z-direction side, or alternatively, the retainer body 510a faces the first outer shell body 310a of the first outer shell 300a held in the retaining portion 720 from the Z-direction side, such that the retainer body 510a is located near the first outer shell body 310a with a gap between them. Therefore, the first retainer 500a can be used to secure the first outer shell body 310a to the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700. Note that both the first retainer 500a and the first housing 700 can be omitted. Even when the first housing 700 is provided, the first retainer 500a can be omitted.

[0192] The connector FC may also include a first shielding element 800 that is conductive. The first shielding element 800 may be made of a conductive material (e.g., a metal plate, etc.), or may include an insulating material (e.g., an insulating resin, etc.) and a metal vapor-deposited on the inner or outer surface of the insulating material. The first shielding element 800 includes a first shielding element body 810, which has a generally U-shaped profile in a cross-sectional view along the X-X' and Y-Y' directions. The first shielding element body 810 may include a first shielding element portion 811, a second shielding element portion 812, and a third shielding element portion 813.

[0193] The first shielding portion 811 is a plate on the Y' direction side of the first shielding body 810. When the first housing 700 is provided, the first shielding portion 811 abuts against the first portion 711 of the first housing 700 from the Y' direction side, and covers the first portion 711, the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y' direction side. When the first housing 700 is not provided, the first shielding portion 811 is configured to cover the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y' direction side.

[0194] The second shielding portion 812 is a plate on the X-direction side of the first shielding body 810, and extends in the Y direction from the end of the first shielding portion 811 on the X-direction side. When the first housing 700 is provided, the second shielding portion 812 abuts against the second portion 712 of the first housing 700 from the X-direction side, and covers the second portion 712, the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X-direction side. When the first housing 700 is not provided, the second shielding portion 812 is configured to cover the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X-direction side.

[0195] The third shielding portion 813 is a plate on the X' direction side of the first shielding body 810, and extends in the Y direction from the end of the first shielding portion 811 on the X' direction side. When the first housing 700 is provided, the third shielding portion 813 abuts against the third portion 713 of the first housing 700 from the X' direction side, and covers the third portion 713, the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X' direction side. When the first housing 700 is not provided, the third shielding portion 813 is configured to cover the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X' direction side.

[0196] When the first housing 700 is provided, the first shield 800 may include a plurality of locking elements. The plurality of locking elements includes at least one set of locking elements selected from a plurality of first locking elements 820, a plurality of second locking elements 830, a plurality of third locking elements 840, and a plurality of fourth locking elements 850.

[0197] Each first locking member 820 is a bent member provided at the end of the first shielding body 810 on the Z' direction side, and abuts against the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 from the Z' direction side. Figures 4A to 6BThe first locking member 820 shown is a plate-shaped member, with two plate-shaped members disposed at the Z' direction end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810, and the other two plate-shaped members disposed at the Z' direction end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810. The two first locking members 820 at the second shielding portion 812 abut against the second portion 712 of the first housing body 710 from the Z' direction side, and the two first locking members 820 at the third shielding portion 813 abut against the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 from the Z' direction side.

[0198] Each second locking member 830 is a bent member provided at the end of the first shielding member body 810 on the Z-direction side, and abuts against the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 from the Z-direction side. Figures 4A to 6B The second locking member 830 shown is a hook-shaped member, one of which is located at the Z-direction end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810, and the other hook-shaped member is located at the Z-direction end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810. The second locking member 830 at the second shielding portion 812 hooks onto the second portion 712 of the first housing body 710 from the Z-direction side, and the second locking member 830 at the third shielding portion 813 hooks onto the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 from the Z-direction side.

[0199] Each third locking member 840 is a generally L-shaped bend located at the end of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side, and abuts against the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 from the Y-direction side. Figures 4A to 6B The third locking member 840 shown is a hook-shaped member, one of which is located at the end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side, and the other hook-shaped member is located at the end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side. The third locking member 840 at the second shielding portion 812 hooks onto the second portion 712 of the first housing body 710 from the Y-direction side, and the third locking member 840 at the third shielding portion 813 hooks onto the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 from the Y-direction side.

[0200] Each fourth locking member 850 is a bent member provided at the end of the first shielding member body 810 on the Y-direction side, and abuts against the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 from the Y-direction side. Figures 4A to 6BThe fourth locking member 850 shown is a plate-shaped member, one of which is located at the end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side, and the other plate-shaped member is located at the end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side. The fourth locking member 850 at the second shielding portion 812 abuts against the second portion 712 of the first housing body 710 from the Y-direction side, and the fourth locking member 850 at the third shielding portion 813 abuts against the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 from the Y-direction side.

[0201] Note that multiple locking components can be omitted. The first shielding component 800 itself can also be omitted.

[0202] The connector FC may also include a second shield 900. The second shield 900 may be made of a conductive material (e.g., a metal plate, etc.), or may include an insulating material (e.g., an insulating resin, etc.) and a metal vapor-deposited on the inner or outer surface of the insulating material. The second shield 900 may be electrically connected to the first shield 800 (if provided).

[0203] The second shielding member 900 includes a second shielding member body 910, which has a plate-like shape extending in the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The second shielding member body 910 is disposed between the first connector portion FC1 and the second connector portion FC2, and covers the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y-direction side. The second shielding member body 910 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the first shielding member portion 811 of the first shielding member body 810.

[0204] With at least one second wall 320b provided with the second housing 300b, in the state where the second connector portion FC2 is in the first normal position, the second shielding body 910 can be disposed on the Y-direction side relative to at least one second wall 320b and at a predetermined distance (a predetermined straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction) from at least one second wall 320b. When the second connector portion FC2 shifts in the Y-direction to this predetermined distance, at least one second wall 320b thereby abuts against the second shielding body 910. Therefore, the displacement of the second connector portion FC2 in the Y-direction side is limited to this predetermined distance. Note that the second shielding body 910 can be disposed at a distance greater than the predetermined distance from at least one second wall 320b.

[0205] When the first housing 300a is provided, at least one of the first shielding member 800 or the second shielding member 900 may include at least one first connecting portion 920a. The at least one first connecting portion 920a only needs to be electrically connected to the first housing 300a.

[0206] At least one first connection portion 920a may be, for example, at least one spring extending from at least one shield to another shield, and may contact the first housing 300a.

[0207] In the case where at least one first connection portion 920a is located at the second shield 900 (see...) Figures 4A to 6B At least one first connecting portion 920a may be at least one spring member extending from the second shielding body 910 in the Y' direction and may resiliently contact at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the X direction side or X' direction side. At least one first connecting portion 920a may be bent to have a fully or partially generally V-shape, the generally V-shape protruding toward at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a. Alternatively, at least one first connecting portion 920a may be bent to have a fully or partially generally arcuate shape, the generally arcuate shape protruding toward at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a.

[0208] At least one first connecting portion 920a may include a pair of first connecting portions 920a, and the pair of first connecting portions 920a may include a first connecting portion 920a on the X-direction side (main first connecting portion 920a) and a first connecting portion 920a on the X'-direction side (secondary first connecting portion 920a). In this case, the first connecting portion 920a on the X-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X-direction side in the Y' direction, and may resiliently contact the first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a on the X-direction side from the X-direction side; and the first connecting portion 920a on the X'-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X'-direction side in the Y' direction, and may resiliently contact the first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a on the X'-direction side from the X'-direction side.

[0209] When at least one first connecting portion 920a is provided at the first shield 800 (not shown), the at least one first connecting portion 920a may be at least one spring member extending from the first shield body 810 to the first housing 300a, and may elastically contact at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the X-direction side or the X'-direction side. The at least one first connecting portion 920a may extend through at least one first through-hole, at least one first recess, etc., provided in the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 to elastically contact at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the X-direction side or the X'-direction side. The at least one first connecting portion 920a may be bent to have a fully or partially generally V-shape, the generally V-shape protruding toward at least one first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a. Alternatively, at least one first connecting portion 920a may be bent to have a generally arcuate shape, either fully or partially, protruding toward at least one first wall 320a (if provided) of the first housing 300a or the first housing body 310a.

[0210] In the case where at least one first connecting portion 920a includes an X-direction side first connecting portion 920a and an X'-direction side first connecting portion 920a, the X-direction side first connecting portion 920a extends from the Y-direction side end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 and folds towards the X'-direction side and the Y'-direction side, and elastically contacts the X-direction side first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a from the X-direction side; and the X'-direction side first connecting portion 920a extends from the Y-direction side end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 and folds towards the X-direction side and the Y'-direction side, and elastically contacts the X'-direction side first wall 320a (if provided) or the first housing body 310a from the X'-direction side.

[0211] Regardless of whether at least one first connecting portion 920a is disposed at the first shield 800 or the second shield 900, when at least one first connecting portion 920a is in elastic contact with the first housing body 310a held by the retaining portion 720, the retaining portion 720 may be provided with at least one first receiving groove to receive at least one first connecting portion 920a. The at least one first receiving groove opens toward the first housing body 310a in the Y direction. When at least one first connecting portion 920a comprises a pair of first connecting portions 920a, an X-direction-side first receiving groove is provided on the X-direction-side sidewall of the retaining portion 720, and an X'-direction-side first receiving groove is provided on the X'-direction-side sidewall of the retaining portion 720.

[0212] When a second housing 300b is provided, at least one of the first shielding member 800 or the second shielding member 900 may include at least one second connecting portion 920b. The at least one second connecting portion 920b only needs to be electrically connected to the second housing 300b.

[0213] At least one second connection portion 920b may be, for example, at least one spring extending from at least one shield to another shield, and may contact the second housing 300b.

[0214] In the case where at least one second connection portion 920b is disposed in the second shield 900 (see...) Figures 4A to 6B At least one second connecting portion 920b may be at least one spring member extending from the second shielding body 910 in the Y' direction and may resiliently contact at least one second wall 320b (if provided) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the X direction side or X' direction side. At least one second connecting portion 920b may be bent to have a fully or partially generally V-shape, the generally V-shape protruding toward at least one second wall 320b (if provided) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b. Alternatively, at least one second connecting portion 920b may be bent to have a fully or partially generally arcuate shape, the generally arcuate shape protruding toward at least one second wall 320b (if provided) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b.

[0215] At least one second connecting portion 920b may include a pair of second connecting portions 920b, and the pair of second connecting portions 920b may include a second connecting portion 920b on the X-direction side (main second connecting portion 920b) and a second connecting portion 920b on the X'-direction side (sub-second connecting portion 920b). In this case, the second connecting portion 920b on the X-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X-direction side in the Y' direction, and may resiliently contact the second wall 320b (if provided) or the second housing body 310b on the X-direction side from the X-direction side; and the second connecting portion 920b on the X'-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X'-direction side in the Y' direction, and may resiliently contact the second wall 320b (if provided) or the second housing body 310b on the X'-direction side from the X'-direction side.

[0216] With at least one second connecting portion 920b disposed at the first shield 800 (not shown), the at least one second connecting portion 920b may be at least one spring member extending from the first shield body 810 to the second housing 300b, and may resiliently contact at least one second wall 320b (if disposed) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the X-direction side or the X'-direction side. The at least one second connecting portion 920b may be bent to have a fully or partially generally V-shape, the generally V-shape protruding toward at least one second wall 320b (if disposed) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b. Alternatively, the at least one second connecting portion 920b may be bent to have a fully or partially generally arcuate shape, the generally arcuate shape protruding toward at least one second wall 320b (if disposed) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b. At least one second connecting portion 920b may extend through at least one second through hole, at least one second recess, etc., provided in the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 to resiliently contact at least one second wall 320b (if provided) or second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the X direction side or the X' direction side.

[0217] In the case where at least one second connecting portion 920b includes a second connecting portion 920b on the X-direction side and a second connecting portion 920b on the X'-direction side, the second connecting portion 920b on the X-direction side can extend from the end of the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side, can be folded toward the X'-direction side and the Y'-direction side, and can elastically contact the second wall 320b (if provided) or the second housing body 310b on the X-direction side from the X-direction side; and the second connecting portion 920b on the X'-direction side can extend from the end of the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 on the Y-direction side, can be folded toward the X-direction side and the Y'-direction side, and can elastically contact the second wall 320b (if provided) or the second housing body 310b on the X'-direction side from the X'-direction side.

[0218] Regardless of whether at least one second connecting portion 920b is disposed at the first shield 800 or the second shield 900, when at least one second connecting portion 920b is in elastic contact with the second outer shell body 310b that fits within the second shell body 410, the second shell body 410 may be provided with at least one second receiving groove to receive at least one second connecting portion 920b. The at least one second receiving groove opens toward the second outer shell body 310b in the Y direction. When at least one second connecting portion 920b comprises a pair of second connecting portions 920b, an X-direction-side second receiving groove is provided in the X-direction-side sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b, and an X'-direction-side second receiving groove is provided in the X'-direction-side sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b. Note that at least one second connecting portion 920b may be omitted.

[0219] When the first shield 800 and the second shield 900 are electrically connected to each other, at least one of the first shield 800 or the second shield 900 may include at least one third connection portion 930. The at least one third connection portion 930 only needs to be electrically connected to the other shield.

[0220] At least one third connection portion 930 is, for example, at least one spring member extending from at least one shield member and in contact with another shield member.

[0221] In the case where at least one third connection portion 930 is provided at the second shield 900 (see...) Figures 4A to 6BAt least one third connecting portion 930 may be at least one spring member extending from the second shielding body 910 in the Y' direction and may elastically contact the first shielding body 810 of the first shielding 800 from the X-direction side or the X'-direction side. At least one third connecting portion 930 may be bent to have a generally V-shape, either fully or partially (e.g., the distal portion on the Y'-direction side), protruding toward the first shielding body 810 of the first shielding 800, or may be bent to have a generally arcuate shape, either fully or partially (e.g., the distal portion on the Y'-direction side), protruding toward the first shielding body 810 of the first shielding 800.

[0222] At least one third connecting portion 930 may include a pair of third connecting portions 930, and the pair of third connecting portions 930 may include a third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side (main third connecting portion 930) and a third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side (sub-third connecting portion 930). In this case, the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X-direction side in the Y' direction, be received in the receiving groove 712a of the second portion 712 from the Y-direction side, and be in elastic contact with the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 from the X'-direction side; and the third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X'-direction side in the Y' direction, be received in the receiving groove 713a of the third portion 713 from the Y-direction side, and be in elastic contact with the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 from the X-direction side. The third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side may include a pair of locking protrusions protruding in the Z-direction and Z'-direction respectively, but this is not mandatory. When the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is received in the receiving groove 712a, the pair of locking protrusions of the third connecting portion 930 can be locked to the walls on the Z-direction and Z'-direction sides of the receiving groove 712a respectively. The third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side may include a pair of locking protrusions protruding in the Z-direction and Z'-direction respectively, but this is not mandatory. When the third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side is received in the receiving groove 713a, the pair of locking protrusions of the third connecting portion 930 can be locked to the walls on the Z-direction and Z'-direction sides of the receiving groove 713a respectively.

[0223] The second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 may be provided with a protrusion 812a protruding in the X' direction (see...). Figure 6AThe protrusion 812a is located in the receiving groove 712a. The distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can be configured not to contact the second shielding portion 812 from the moment it is inserted into the receiving groove 712a until it is fully received in the receiving groove 712a (before reaching the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812), with a gap between them, but when fully received in the receiving groove 712a (in the state of having reached the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812), it can elastically contact the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812 from the X' direction side. Alternatively, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can be configured to resiliently contact the second shielding portion 812 from the moment it begins to be inserted into the receiving groove 712a until it is fully received in the receiving groove 712a, and when fully received in the receiving groove 712a (in the state of having reached the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812), it can resiliently contact the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812 from the X' direction side. In either case, the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side provides increased contact pressure against the second shielding portion 812. In the state where the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side has reached the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812, the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can be locked in the receiving groove 712a in the manner described above. The third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 may be provided with a protrusion 813a protruding towards the X-direction side (see Figure 6AThe protrusion 813a is located in the receiving groove 713a. The distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side can be configured not to contact the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 from the moment it is inserted into the receiving groove 713a until it is fully received in the receiving groove 713a (before reaching the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813), with a gap between them, but when fully received in the receiving groove 713a (in the state of having reached the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813), it can elastically contact the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813 from the X direction side. Alternatively, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side can be configured to resiliently contact the third shielding portion 813 from the moment it begins to be inserted into the receiving groove 713a until it is fully received in the receiving groove 713a, and to resiliently contact the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813 from the X direction side when fully received in the receiving groove 713a (in the state of having reached the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813). In either case, the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side provides increased contact pressure against the third shielding portion 813. In the state where the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side has reached the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813, the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side can be locked in the receiving groove 713a in the manner described above. Note that protrusions 812a and 813a can be omitted.

[0224] The third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side includes a bent portion that bends approximately 90 degrees relative to the second shielding body 910. The bent portion may have a window 940 formed through it. The third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side also includes a bent portion that bends approximately 90 degrees relative to the second shielding body 910. The bent portion may have a window 940 formed through it. Each end face of the window 940 on the Y'-direction side acts as a pressing surface, so that it is pressed from the Y-direction side by a clamp when the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is inserted into the receiving groove 712a and the third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side is inserted into the receiving groove 713a. The window 940 may be omitted.

[0225] Alternatively, the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X-direction side in the Y' direction and elastically contact the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 from the X' direction side, and the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side may extend from the end of the second shielding body 910 on the X' direction side in the Y' direction and elastically contact the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 from the X-direction side.

[0226] When at least one third connecting portion 930 is provided at the first shield 800 (not shown), the at least one third connecting portion 930 may be at least one spring member extending from the first shield body 810 to the second shield body 910 and may elastically contact the second shield body 910. For example, at least one third connecting portion 930 may extend through at least one third through hole, at least one third recess, etc., provided in the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 to elastically contact the second shield body 910. At least one third connecting portion 930 may extend from the end of the second shield portion 812 of the first shield body 810 on the Y-direction side, bend in the X' direction, and elastically contact the second shield body 910 from the Y-direction side. Alternatively, at least one third connecting portion 930 may extend from the end of the third shield portion 813 of the first shield body 810 on the Y-direction side, bend in the X direction, and elastically contact the second shield body 910 from the Y-direction side. At least one third connecting portion 930 may be bent into, for example, having a generally V-shape that protrudes fully or partially toward the second shield body 910, or alternatively, be bent into, for example, having a generally arc shape that protrudes fully or partially toward the second shield body 910.

[0227] Note that at least one third connection portion 930 may be omitted. In this case, the first shield 800 and the second shield 900 can be electrically connected to each other via the first housing 300a and / or the second housing 300b by being electrically connected to the first housing 300a and / or the second housing 300b in the manner described above. Alternatively, the first shield 800 and the second shield 900 can be electrically connected to each other via cables, different terminals, etc. Even more alternatively, the first shield 800 and the second shield 900 can be electrically connected to each other by bringing the first shield body 810 of the first shield 800 into contact with the second shield body 910 of the second shield 900.

[0228] The following describes a non-limiting method for manufacturing the connector FC described above. First, a first body 100a and a plurality of terminals 200 are prepared.

[0229] The first contact portions 210a of a plurality of terminals 200 are inserted from the Y' direction side into corresponding retaining holes 111a and / or corresponding retaining grooves 112a of the first body 100a, and the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are inserted into and retained by the corresponding retaining holes 111a and / or corresponding retaining grooves 112a of the first body 100a. Therefore, the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are held in the first body 100a at intervals in the X-X' direction. At this time, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the corresponding retaining holes 111a or corresponding retaining grooves 112a of the first body 100a in the Y direction, or alternatively, are disposed in the corresponding connection holes of the first body 100a (if provided) and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the corresponding connection holes in the Y direction.

[0230] When multiple terminals 200 include corresponding first connection portions 240a and the first body 100a includes multiple first separators 120a, when the first retainable portions 220a of the multiple terminals 200 are held in the first body 100a, the first connection portions 240a of the multiple terminals 200 are inserted between two corresponding pairs of the multiple first separators 120a in the first body 100a.

[0231] After assembling multiple terminals 200 to the first body 100a, the first housing 300a is prepared.

[0232] The first body 100a is inserted into and held by the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the Y' direction side. Therefore, the first contact portions 210a and the first retainable portions 220a of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed within the first housing body 310a together with the first body 100a. Simultaneously, the portion of the first housing body 310a located relative to the first body 100a on the Y direction side defines a first connection space. When the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 at least partially protrude from the first body 100a, the first contact portions 210a are at least partially disposed within the first connection space of the first housing body 310a.

[0233] When the first housing 300a includes a pair of first walls 320a, when the first body 100a is inserted into the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a, the first connecting portions 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 are disposed between the pair of first walls 320a. The first body 100a can be held in the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a before the plurality of terminals 200 are assembled to the first body 100a as described above.

[0234] Therefore, the first connector part FC1 was assembled.

[0235] Prepare a second body 100b. Second contact portions 210b of a plurality of terminals 200 are inserted from the Y' direction side into corresponding retaining holes 111b and / or corresponding retaining grooves 112b of the second body 100b, and second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are inserted into and retained by the corresponding retaining holes 111b and / or corresponding retaining grooves 112b of the second body 100b. Therefore, the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are held in the second body 100b at intervals in the X-X' direction. At this time, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 protrude at least partially from the corresponding retaining holes 111b and / or corresponding retaining grooves 112b of the second body 100b in the Y direction, or alternatively, are disposed in corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b (if disposed) and are at least partially exposed or protruding from the corresponding connection holes in the Y direction.

[0236] When multiple terminals 200 include a second connecting portion 240b and the second body 100b includes multiple second separators 120b, when the second retainable portion 220b of the multiple terminals 200 is held in the second body 100b, the second connecting portion 240b of the multiple terminals 200 is inserted between two corresponding pairs of the multiple second separators 120b in the second body 100b.

[0237] After assembling the plurality of terminals 200 to the second body 100b as described above, the second housing 300b is prepared.

[0238] The second body 100b is inserted into and held by the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the Y' direction side. Therefore, the second contact portions 210b and the second retainable portions 220b of the plurality of terminals 200 are at least partially disposed within the second housing body 310b together with the second body 100b. Simultaneously, the portion of the second housing body 310b located relative to the second body 100b on the Y direction side defines a second connection space. When the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 at least partially protrude from the second body 100b, the second contact portions 210b are at least partially disposed within the second connection space of the second housing body 310b.

[0239] When the second housing 300b includes a pair of second walls 320b, when the second body 100b is inserted into the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b, the second connecting portions 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 are disposed between the pair of second walls 320b. Note that the second body 100b may remain in the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b before the plurality of terminals 200 are assembled to the second body 100b as described above.

[0240] After the second body 100b is held in the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b, the second housing 400 is prepared. The second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b is inserted into the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 from the Y direction side and is held by the second housing body 410.

[0241] When the second housing body 410 is provided with a retaining base 417, when the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b is inserted into the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400, the retaining base 417 abuts against the second connection portion 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 (if provided) from the Y' direction side, or is provided in a spaced-apart relationship with the second connection portion 240b of the plurality of terminals 200 (if provided). The plate 130b of the second body 100b and the Y' direction side portion of the wall on the Z direction side of the second housing body 310b are fitted into the top plate 414 of the second housing body 410 and the retaining base 417. In the first gap 418, a portion of the Y' direction side of the X-direction sidewall 140b of the second body 100b and a portion of the Y' direction side of the X-direction sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b on the second body 100b are inserted into the second gap between the sidewall 415 of the second shell body 410 and the retaining base 417, and a portion of the Y' direction side of the X' direction sidewall 140b of the second body 100b and a portion of the Y' direction side of the X' direction sidewall of the second outer shell body 310b on the second body 100b are inserted into the third gap between the sidewall 416 of the second shell body 410 and the retaining base 417.

[0242] When at least one second wall 320b of the second outer shell 300b is provided, when the second outer shell body 310b of the second outer shell 300b is inserted into the second shell body 410 of the second shell 400, at least one second wall 320b of the second outer shell 300b passes through the space between side walls 412 and 413 and between side walls 415 and 416 of the generally U-shaped second shell body 410 and is positioned on the Z' direction side relative to the second shell body 410, or passes through at least one slit at the bottom of the generally annular second shell body 410 and is positioned on the Z' direction side relative to the second shell body 410. If at least one second wall 320b is not provided, the above steps are omitted.

[0243] With the second retainer 500b provided, the second retainer 500b is prepared. The first locking member 520b and the second locking member 520b of the second retainer 500b are respectively inserted into the first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460 of the second housing 400 from the Z' direction side, and the lugs at the distal portions of the first locking member 520b and the second locking member 520b are respectively locked into the first locking hole 460 and the second locking hole 460. At this time, the second retainer 500b fixes the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b to the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400.

[0244] Therefore, the second connector part FC2 is assembled. If the second housing 400 is omitted, the steps related to the second housing 400 are omitted from the steps for assembling the second connector part FC2. Similarly, if the second retainer 500b is omitted, the steps related to the second retainer 500b are omitted from the steps for assembling the second connector part FC2.

[0245] With the rotating rod 600 provided, the shaft 430 of the second housing 400 is inserted into the shaft hole 611 of the rod body 610 of the rotating rod 600. Subsequently, a screw or pin 620 of the rotating rod 600 is inserted and secured into the shaft hole of the shaft 430. Alternatively, the shaft hole 611 of the rod body 610 of the rotating rod 600 is configured to communicate with the shaft hole of the second housing 400. Subsequently, a screw or pin 620 of the rotating rod 600 is inserted and secured into the shaft hole of the shaft 430 and the shaft hole of the second housing 400. Therefore, the rotating rod 600 is rotatably attached to the second housing 400.

[0246] When a first housing 700 is provided, the first housing 700 is prepared. When a first shielding member 800 is provided, the first shielding member 800 is prepared. When the first shielding member 800 is provided with a plurality of first locking members 820, the plurality of first locking members 820 extend in the Z' direction. The first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 is inserted into the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800 from the Z' direction side. Therefore, the first shielding member portion 811 of the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800 abuts against the first portion 711 of the first housing 700, the second shielding member portion 812 of the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800 abuts against the second portion 712 of the first housing 700, and the third shielding member portion 813 of the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800 abuts against the third portion 713 of the first housing 700. When the first shielding member 800 is provided with a plurality of second locking members 830 and / or a plurality of third locking members 840, when the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 is inserted into the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800, the second portion 712 and the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 are inserted into the plurality of second locking members 830 and / or the plurality of third locking members 840 from the Z' direction side. When the first shielding member 800 is provided with a plurality of fourth locking members 850, when the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 is inserted into the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800, the second portion 712 and the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710 abut against the plurality of fourth locking members 850 from the Y' direction side. After the first housing body 710 of the first housing 700 is inserted into the first shielding member body 810 of the first shielding member 800, the plurality of first locking members 820 are bent to abut against the second portion 712 and the third portion 713 of the first housing body 710. Therefore, the first shield 800 is attached to the first housing 700.

[0247] After the first body 100a is held in the first outer shell body 310a of the first outer shell 300a, the second body 100b is held in the second outer shell body 310b of the second outer shell 300b, and the second outer shell body 310b of the second outer shell 300b is held in the second outer shell body 410 of the second shell 400, the first outer shell body 310a of the first outer shell 300a is inserted into the holding portion 720 of the first shell 700 from the Y direction side and is held by the holding portion 720.

[0248] When the retaining portion 720 is provided with a retaining base 724, when the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a is inserted into the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, the retaining base 724 abuts against the first connecting portion 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 (if provided) from the Y' direction side or is spaced apart from the first connecting portion 240a of the plurality of terminals 200 (if provided). The plate 130a of the first body 100a and the Y' direction side portion of the wall on the Z' direction side of the first housing body 310a are fitted between the bottom 721 of the retaining portion 720 and the retaining base 724. In the first gap 725, a portion of the Y' direction side of the X-direction sidewall 140a of the first body 100a and a portion of the Y' direction side of the X-direction sidewall of the first outer shell body 310a on the first body 100a are inserted into the second gap between the sidewall 722 of the retaining portion 720 and the retaining base 724. Furthermore, a portion of the Y' direction side of the X' direction sidewall 140a of the first body 100a and a portion of the Y' direction side of the X' direction sidewall of the first outer shell body 310a on the first body 100a are inserted into the third gap between the sidewall 723 of the retaining portion 720 and the retaining base 724. Note that if the retaining base 724 is omitted, the steps related to the retaining base 724 are omitted.

[0249] When at least one first wall 320a is provided with a first outer casing 300a, when the first outer casing body 310a of the first outer casing 300a is inserted into the retaining portion 720 of the first casing 700, at least one first wall 320a passes between the side walls 722 and 723 of the generally U-shaped retaining portion 720 to be located on the Z-direction side relative to the retaining portion 720, or alternatively, passes through at least one slot in the top plate of the generally annular retaining portion 720 to be located on the Z-direction side relative to the retaining portion 720. This step is omitted when at least one first wall 320a is not provided.

[0250] When the first housing 700 is provided with at least one guide 730, when the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a is inserted into the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, the second connector portion FC2 is inserted into the first housing body 710a of the first housing 700 from the Y-direction side, and the second connector portion FC2 is guided by at least one guide 730 of the first housing 700 in the manner described above. If at least one guide 730 is omitted, the steps related to at least one guide 730 are omitted.

[0251] When the first housing 700 is provided with multiple partitions 740, when the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a is inserted into the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, the elastically deformable portions 230 of the multiple terminals 200 are respectively inserted from the Y-direction side between the multiple partitions 740 of the first housing 700. If the multiple partitions 740 are omitted, the steps related to the multiple partitions 740 are omitted.

[0252] With the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a inserted into the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, the first shielding portion 811 of the first shielding member 800 covers the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2 and the elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y' direction side, the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding member 800 covers the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2 and the elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X direction side, and the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding member 800 covers the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2 and the elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the X' direction side.

[0253] The first shielding member 800 may be attached to the first housing 700 after the first housing body 310a or the first body 100a of the first housing 300a is held in the holding portion 720 of the first housing 700. If the first housing 700 is omitted, the steps related to the first housing 700 are omitted.

[0254] When a first retainer 500a is provided, the first retainer 500a is prepared. The first locking member 520a and the second locking member 520a of the first retainer 500a are respectively inserted from the Z-direction side into the first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726 of the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700, and the lugs at the distal ends of the first locking member 520a and the second locking member 520a are respectively locked into the first locking hole 726 and the second locking hole 726. At this time, the first retainer 500a fixes the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a to the retaining portion 720. If the first retainer 500a is omitted, the steps related to the first retainer 500a are omitted.

[0255] When a second shield 900 is provided, the second shield 900 is prepared. In the Y-Y' direction, the second shield 900 is relatively close to the first housing 700. The second shield body 910 of the second shield 900 is disposed between the first connector portion FC1 and the second connector portion FC2, and covers the elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 from the Y direction side.

[0256] When the second shield 900 is provided with a pair of first connecting portions 920a, when the second shield 900 is moved relatively closer to the first housing 700 in the Y-Y' direction, the first connecting portion 920a on the X-direction side makes elastic contact with the first wall 320a (if provided) on the X-direction side of the first housing 300a from the X-direction side, or alternatively, is accommodated in the first receiving groove on the X-direction side of the retaining portion 720 to make elastic contact with the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the X-direction side; and the first connecting portion 920a on the X'-direction side makes elastic contact with the first wall 320a (if provided) on the X'-direction side of the first housing 300a from the X'-direction side, or alternatively, is accommodated in the first receiving groove on the X'-direction side of the retaining portion 720 to make elastic contact with the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a from the X'-direction side. Therefore, the second shield 900 and the first housing 300a are electrically connected to each other. When a pair of first connecting portions 920a is a single first connecting portion 920a, the above steps for either of the pair of first connecting portions 920a shall apply to the single first connecting portion 920a. If the first connecting portion 920a is omitted, the steps related to the first connecting portion 920a shall be omitted.

[0257] When the second shield 900 is provided with a pair of second connecting portions 920b, when the second shield 900 is moved relatively closer to the first housing 700 in the Y-Y' direction, the second connecting portion 920b on the X-direction side makes elastic contact with the second wall 320b on the X-direction side of the second housing 300b (if provided), or alternatively, is accommodated in the second receiving groove on the X-direction side of the second housing body 310b to make elastic contact with the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the X-direction side; and the second connecting portion 920b on the X'-direction side makes elastic contact with the second wall 320b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b (if provided), or alternatively, is accommodated in the second receiving groove on the X'-direction side of the second housing body 310b to make elastic contact with the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b from the X'-direction side. Therefore, the second shield 900 and the second housing 300b are electrically connected to each other. When a pair of second connecting portions 920b is a single second connecting portion 920b, the above steps for either of the pair of second connecting portions 920b shall apply to the single second connecting portion 920b. If the second connecting portion 920b is omitted, the steps related to the second connecting portion 920b are omitted.

[0258] When the second shield 900 is provided with a pair of third connecting portions 930, when the second shield 900 is made relatively closer to the first housing 700 in the Y-Y' direction, the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is received from the Y-direction side in the receiving groove 712a of the second portion 712 of the first housing 700 to elastically contact the second shield portion 812 of the first shield 800 from the X' direction side, and the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side is received from the Y-direction side in the receiving groove 713a of the third portion 713 of the first housing 700 to elastically contact the third shield portion 813 of the first shield 800 from the X-direction side. The third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can be locked in the receiving groove 712a when received (when fully received). The third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side can be locked in the receiving groove 713a when received (when fully received).

[0259] When the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810 is provided with a protrusion 812a and the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810 is provided with a protrusion 813a, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is inserted into the receiving groove 712a until the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is fully received in the receiving groove 712a. During this process, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side moves in the Y' direction without contacting the second shielding portion 812 of the first shielding body 810, or slides on the second shielding portion 812 in the Y' direction. When the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side is fully received in the receiving groove 712a, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can elastically contact the protrusion 812a of the second shielding portion 812 from the X' direction side and can be locked in the receiving groove 712a. Starting from the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side is inserted into the receiving groove 713a until it is fully received in the receiving groove 713a. During this process, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side moves in the Y' direction without contacting the third shielding portion 813 of the first shielding body 810, or slides on the third shielding portion 813 in the Y' direction. When the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side is fully received in the receiving groove 713a, the distal portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X' direction side can elastically contact the protrusion 813a of the third shielding portion 813 from the X direction side and can be locked in the receiving groove 713a.

[0260] Therefore, the second shield 900 is electrically connected to the first shield 800 in the manner described above. Note that when a window 940 is provided on the bent portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side and a window 940 is provided on the bent portion of the third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side, the end face of the window 940 on the Y'-direction side can be pressed from the Y-direction side by a clamp, and thereby the third connecting portion 930 on the X-direction side can be inserted from the Y-direction side into the receiving groove 712a, and the third connecting portion 930 on the X'-direction side can be inserted from the Y-direction side into the receiving groove 713a.

[0261] Note that when a pair of third connecting portions 930 is a single third connecting portion 930, the above steps for either of the pair of third connecting portions 930 should apply to the single third connecting portion 930. If the third connecting portion 930 is omitted, the steps related to the third connecting portion 930 are omitted.

[0262] If the second shielding element 900 is omitted, the steps related to the second shielding element 900 are omitted.

[0263] The non-limiting connector FC is manufactured as described above.

[0264] The first circuit board B1 includes a plurality of first electrodes 1. The plurality of first electrodes 1 are surface electrodes spaced apart in the X-X' direction on the surface of the first circuit board B1 on the Z-direction side, or alternatively, through-hole electrodes spaced apart in the X-X' direction within the first circuit board B1. The first circuit board B1 may also include a plurality of first ground electrodes 2 and / or a plurality of first bonding holes 3. The plurality of first ground electrodes 2 are surface electrodes disposed on the surface of the first circuit board B1 on the Z-direction side and connectable to ground, or alternatively, through-hole electrodes disposed in the first circuit board B1 and connectable to ground. The plurality of first bonding holes 3 extend through the first circuit board B1 in the Z-Z' direction. The plurality of first ground electrodes 2 and / or the plurality of first bonding holes 3 may be omitted.

[0265] The first mating connector MC1 is mounted on the first circuit board B1 from the Z-direction side and is releasably connected to the first connector portion FC1 of the floating connector FC from the Y-direction side. When used herein, the term "first connection state" refers to the state in which the first mating connector MC1 is connected to the first connector portion FC1 of the aforementioned connector FC in the Y-Y' direction.

[0266] The first mating connector MC1 includes a first body 10. The first body 10 is made of an insulating material (e.g., insulating resin, etc.). The first body 10 only needs to have a shape that allows it to be connected to the first connector portion FC1 of the aforementioned connector FC in the Y-Y' direction.

[0267] The first body 10 may include a base 11 and a protrusion 12. For example, the base 11 is typically a wall extending in the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. In the wall surface on the Y-direction side of the base 11, a plurality of retaining grooves 11a are provided at intervals in the X-X' direction. In addition, locking grooves 11b may be provided at the ends on the X-direction side and the X'-direction side of the base 11, respectively.

[0268] Protrusion 12 is made of a polygonal prism (e.g., a tetrahedral prism (see also...) Figures 9A to 9D It is constructed of a hexagonal prism (not shown), a cylinder (not shown), etc. The protrusion 12 extends from the center portion of the base 11 in the Y' direction. In the first connected state, the protrusion 12 engages in the first connection space of the first housing body 310a of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC, and abuts against the first main body portion 110a of the first body 100a of the first connector portion FC1. The protrusion 12 has an external shape and external dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the internal shape and internal dimensions of the first housing body 310a in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions.

[0269] The protrusion 12 is provided with a plurality of retaining holes 12a and a plurality of connecting holes 12b. The plurality of retaining holes 12a are arranged at the same intervals as the plurality of retaining slots 11a in the X-X' direction. The plurality of retaining holes 12a are open in the Y direction. The plurality of connecting holes 12b are arranged at the same intervals as the plurality of retaining holes 12a in the X-X' direction, and are located on the Y' direction side relative to the plurality of retaining holes 12a and communicate with the plurality of retaining holes 12a. The plurality of connecting holes 12b are open in the Y' direction.

[0270] Multiple connecting holes 12b can be omitted. In this case, multiple retaining holes 12a extend through the protrusion 12 in the Y-Y' direction and are open not only in the Y direction but also in the Y' direction.

[0271] The first body 10 may also have a tubular portion 13. The tubular portion 13 has a generally annular shape (e.g., a polygonal annular shape, such as a generally quadrilateral annular shape) in a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions (see...). Figures 8A to 10B The tubular portion 13 extends from the base 11 in the Y direction and surrounds the protrusion 12. The tubular portion 13 and the protrusion 12 define a generally annular shape (e.g., a polygonal annular shape, such as a generally quadrilateral annular shape (see [reference]). Figures 8A to 10BThe connector FC has a first insertion space, which is either a first housing 700 or a generally circular annular shape (not shown). When the connector FC is provided with a first housing 700, in the first connected state, the distal portion of the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700 of the connector FC engages in the first insertion space in the Y-Y' direction. When the connector FC is not provided with a first housing 700, in the first connected state, the distal portion of the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a of the connector FC engages in the first insertion space in the Y-Y' direction. The tubular portion 13 includes a first sidewall on the X-direction side, a second sidewall on the X'-direction side, a top plate on the Z-direction side, and a bottom plate on the Z'-direction side.

[0272] The first and second sidewalls of the tubular portion 13 may be provided with a first slit 13a and a second slit 13a, respectively.

[0273] The first slit 13a extends through the first sidewall of the tubular portion 13 in the X-X' direction and extends in the Y-Y' direction.

[0274] The second slit 13a extends through the second sidewall of the tubular portion 13 in the X-X' direction and extends in the Y-Y' direction. In the first connected state, the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side and the first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side of the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC are respectively accommodated in the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a. Note that if the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side and the first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side are omitted, the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a may also be omitted.

[0275] The top plate of the tubular portion 13 may have a recess 13c (to be described). Alternatively, the recess 13c may be omitted.

[0276] The first mating connector MC1 also includes an abutment portion 14 (to be described). The abutment portion 14 may be omitted.

[0277] The base plate of the tubular portion 13 may be provided with a plurality of engaging protrusions 15 protruding in the Z' direction. The plurality of engaging protrusions 15 engage in corresponding first engaging holes 3 of the first circuit board B1. The base plate of the tubular portion 13 may also be provided with a locking recess 13b. In the first connected state, the locking arm 750 of the first housing 700 is locked in the locking recess 13b. The engaging protrusions 15 and / or the locking recess 13b may be omitted.

[0278] The first mating connector MC1 also includes at least one first terminal 20. The at least one first terminal 20 can be a single first terminal 20 or multiple first terminals 20. For ease of explanation, at least one first terminal 20 will be described as multiple first terminals 20. However, even when a single first terminal 20 is provided, the first terminal 20 can be configured similarly to each first terminal 20.

[0279] The first mating connector MC1 also includes a plurality of first terminals 20. For example, each first terminal 20 can be manufactured by the rolling method described above. In this case, the first surface on the X-direction side and the second surface on the X'-direction side of each terminal 200 are flat rolled surfaces. Each terminal 200 can also be manufactured by other known methods for manufacturing terminals (e.g., photolithography or inkjet printing) instead of by rolling.

[0280] The plurality of first terminals 20 include a corresponding first contact portion 21, a corresponding first retainable portion 22, and a corresponding first pin portion 23. The plurality of first terminals 20 may also include a corresponding first connection portion 24.

[0281] The first retainable portions 22 of the plurality of first terminals 20 are generally L-shaped plates and are securely received from the Y-direction side in the corresponding retaining grooves 11a of the base 11 of the first body 10 and the corresponding retaining holes 12a of the protrusions 12. Therefore, the first retainable portions 22 of the plurality of first terminals 20 are held in the first body 10 at intervals in the X-X' direction.

[0282] The first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may extend from the corresponding first connection portions 24 in the Y' direction. Each first contact portion 21 may be composed of a plate (not shown), a rod (not shown), or a tube (not shown), and may have a forked shape including a first contact arm 21a and a second contact arm 21a (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A and Figure 2B , Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figures 9A to 11B The first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 protrude or are exposed at least partially from the first body 10, making them visible from the Y' direction side.

[0283] When the first body 10 includes a plurality of connection holes 12b, the first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 are disposed in the respective connection holes 12b from the Y direction side, and are at least partially exposed from the respective connection holes 12b in the Y' direction. In the first connection state, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC, which at least partially protrude from the first body 100a, are received from the Y' direction side in the respective connection holes 12b of the first body 10, and contact the respective first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20.

[0284] When the first body 10 does not include the plurality of connection holes 12b, the first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 protrude at least partially from the corresponding retaining holes 12a in the Y' direction. In the first connected state, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC, which at least partially protrude from the first body 100a, contact the corresponding first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20. Alternatively, in the first connected state, the first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 are received in the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC, and contact the corresponding first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1.

[0285] The first connection portion 24 of the plurality of first terminals 20 only needs to connect the first retainable portion 22 and the first contact portion 21.

[0286] In the case where the first contact portion 210a of each terminal 200 of the first connector section FC1 of the connector FC is composed of a plate or rod inclined in a first inclined direction (see...), Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B Each first terminal 20's first connecting portion 24 can be bent or flexed such that the first contact arm 21a and the second contact arm 21a of each first terminal 20's first contact portion 21 can respectively elastically contact the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the corresponding first contact portion 210a from one side and the other side of a third inclined direction (forming substantially right angles to the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a respectively), wherein the third inclined direction is substantially orthogonal to the first inclined direction. Alternatively, each first terminal 20's first connecting portion 24 can be bent or flexed such that each first terminal 20's plate-like or rod-like first contact portion 21 can contact the first surface 211a or the second surface 212a of the corresponding first contact portion 210a from one side or the other side of the third inclined direction.

[0287] In the case that each terminal 200 of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC includes a first contact arm and a second contact arm (not shown) that are inclined in a first inclined direction, the first connecting portion 24 of each first terminal 20 can be bent or flexed such that the first surface and the second surface of the first contact portion 21 of each first terminal 20 are inclined in a third inclined direction, and the first contact arm and the second contact arm of the corresponding first contact portion 210a can respectively elastically contact the first surface and the second surface of the first contact portion 21 from one side and the other side of the first inclined direction (forming substantially right angles to the first surface and the second surface of the first contact portion 21 respectively).

[0288] The first connection portion 24 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may not be bent or folded, but may extend straight from the corresponding first retainable portion 22 to the corresponding first contact portion 21 (not shown).

[0289] The first connection portion 24 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may be omitted. In this case, the first contact portion 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may extend from the corresponding first retainable portion 22 in the Y' direction.

[0290] The first pin portions 23 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may extend in the Y direction from the corresponding first retainable portions 22, be disposed on the Y direction side relative to the first body 10, and be connected to the corresponding first electrode 1 of the first circuit board B1, wherein the first electrode 1 is a surface electrode. Alternatively, the first pin portions 23 of the plurality of first terminals 20 may extend in the Z' direction from the corresponding first retainable portions 22, be disposed on the Z direction side relative to the first body 10, and be connected to the corresponding first electrode 1 of the first circuit board B1, wherein the first electrode 1 is a through-hole electrode.

[0291] The first mating connector MC1 may further include a first housing 30 that is conductive. The first housing 30 may be made of a conductive material (e.g., a metal plate, etc.), or may include an insulating material (e.g., an insulating resin, etc.) and metal vapor-deposited on the inner or outer surface of the insulating material. The first housing 30 includes a first housing body 31. In a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions, the first housing body 31 has a generally U-shaped shape (not shown) or a generally annular shape (polygonal annular shape, such as a generally quadrilateral annular shape, or a generally circular annular shape (not shown)). The first housing body 31 extends in the Y-Y' direction. The first housing body 31 has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the first body 10 in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The first body 10 is at least partially housed in the first housing body 31 from the Y-direction side. The first housing body 31 includes a top plate on the Z-direction side, a first side plate on the X-direction side, and a second side plate on the X'-direction side.

[0292] When the tubular portion 13 is provided with a first slit 13a and a second slit 13a, the first side plate and the second side plate of the first housing body 31 are exposed to the interior of the first housing body 31 from the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a, respectively. In the first connected state, the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side and the first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side of the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC are received in the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a, respectively, and are in elastic contact with the first side plate and the second side plate of the first housing body 31, respectively. Therefore, the first housing 30 is electrically connected to the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC in the first connected state. When the tubular portion 13 is omitted, in the first connected state, the distal portion of the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a of the connector FC engages in the first insertion space and contacts the first housing body 31. In the same way, the first housing 30 is electrically connected to the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC in the first connected state.

[0293] The top plate of the first outer shell body 31 is provided with a cutout 31a or opening for exposing the contact portion 14 to the Z-direction side.

[0294] The first outer casing 30 may further include a first cover 32. The first cover 32 is a plate continuous with the end of the top plate of the first outer casing body 31 on the Y-direction side, and covers the first body 10 from the Y-direction side. The first cover 32 may be omitted.

[0295] The first housing 30 may further include a plurality of first legs 33 on the X-direction side and a plurality of second legs 33 on the X'-direction side. Each first leg 33 extends in the Z'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the first side plate of the first housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding first ground electrode in the first ground electrode 2 (a through-hole electrode) of the first circuit board B1, or alternatively, extends in the X-direction from the Z'-direction end of the first side plate of the first housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding first ground electrode in the first ground electrode 2 (a surface electrode) of the first circuit board B1. Each second leg 33 extends in the Z'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the first housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding first ground electrode in the first ground electrode 2 (a through-hole electrode) of the first circuit board B1, or alternatively, extends in the X'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the first housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding first ground electrode in the first ground electrode 2 (a surface electrode) of the first circuit board B1. Note that the plurality of first legs 33 and the plurality of second legs 33 may be omitted.

[0296] The first housing 30 may further include a plurality of locking elements. The plurality of locking elements are a plurality of first locking elements 34, a plurality of second locking elements 35, and / or a plurality of third locking elements 36. Each first locking element 34 is a bent member disposed at the Z'-direction end of the first side plate or the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the first housing body 31, and abuts against the first body 10 from the Z'-direction side. Each second locking element 35 is a bent member disposed at the Z'-direction end of the first cover 32, and abuts against the first body 10 from the Z'-direction side. Each third locking element 36 is a generally L-shaped bent member at the X-direction end or the X'-direction end of the first cover 32, and is received from the Z'-direction side in a corresponding locking groove in the locking groove 11b of the first body 10.

[0297] Multiple locking elements of the first outer casing 30 can be omitted. If multiple third locking elements 36 are omitted, the locking groove 11b of the first body 10 is also omitted.

[0298] The second circuit board B2 is disposed at a distance from the first circuit board B1 and is positioned on the Z-direction side relative to the first circuit board B1. The second circuit board B2 has a similar structure to the first circuit board B1. A plurality of first electrodes 1 of the second circuit board B2 are surface electrodes spaced apart in the X-X' direction on the surface of the second circuit board B2 on the Z-direction side, or alternatively, through-hole electrodes spaced apart in the X-X' direction within the second circuit board B2. A plurality of second ground electrodes 2 of the second circuit board B2 are surface electrodes disposed on the surface of the second circuit board B2 on the Z-direction side and connectable to ground, or alternatively, through-hole electrodes disposed in the second circuit board B2 and connectable to ground. A plurality of second bonding holes 3 of the second circuit board B2 extend through the second circuit board B2 in the Z-Z' direction. The plurality of second ground electrodes 2 and / or the plurality of second bonding holes 3 may be omitted.

[0299] The second mating connector MC2 (sub-connector) may have a similar construction to the first mating connector MC1, but it may differ in that the second mating connector MC2 is mounted on the second circuit board B2 from the Z-direction side and is releasably connected to the second connector portion FC2 of the floating connector FC from the Y-direction side. When used herein, the term "second normal position" refers to the state where the second mating connector MC2 is positioned spaced apart from the first mating connector MC1 and is located on the Z-direction side relative to the first mating connector MC1, and coincides with the first mating connector MC1 in the Y-Y' and X-X' directions; the term "half-connected state" refers to the state where the second connector portion FC2 of the aforementioned connector FC is at least mechanically half-connected to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y-Y' direction, but can move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction; the term "second connected state (fully connected state)" refers to the state where the second connector portion FC2 of the aforementioned connector FC is fully mechanically and electrically connected to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y-Y' direction, and cannot move further relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. The second mating connector MC2 differs from the first mating connector MC1 in the following aspects.

[0300] For example, a half-connected state can be caused by the following non-restrictive factors (a) to (d).

[0301] Case (a): The second mating connector MC2 is in a second normal position relative to the first mating connector MC1, and the insertion force required for the connection of the second mating connector MC2 and the second connector portion FC2 (e.g., the force to overcome the dynamic friction generated in the area where the second mating connector MC2 and the second connector portion FC2 are in contact when they are connected together) is greater than the reaction force (restoring force) generated when the elastically deformable portion 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 of the connector FC elastically deforms.

[0302] Case (b): The second mating connector MC2 is in the second normal position and the insertion force is less than the reaction force (excluding the case where the difference between the insertion force and the reaction force is close to zero).

[0303] Case (c): The relationship between the insertion force and the reaction force is irrelevant (the two forces may be the same or different), but the second mating connector MC2 is in a position offset in the Y' direction from the second normal position relative to the first mating connector MC1.

[0304] Case (d): The second mating connector MC2 is in a position offset in the Y direction from the second normal position relative to the first mating connector MC1 (however, this depends on the relationship between the amount of offset, the insertion force, and the reaction force).

[0305] The second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2 may be identical in shape to the first body 10 of the first mating connector MC1 (see [link]). Figures 1A to 2D and Figures 8A to 10B Alternatively, the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2 may be constructed similarly to the first body 10 (not shown) of the first mating connector MC1 described above, but differ in shape. Therefore, the same reference numerals as those used for the first body 10 and its sub-elements will be used to denote the second body 10 and its sub-elements.

[0306] For example, the second body 10 may include the base 11 and the protrusion 12 described above. As described above, the base 11 is provided with a plurality of retaining grooves 11a. As described above, the protrusion 12 may be provided with a plurality of retaining holes 12a and a plurality of connecting holes 12b, or alternatively, it may be provided with a plurality of retaining holes 12a but not with a plurality of connecting holes 12b. In the semi-connected state, the protrusion 12 of the second body 10 partially engages (is not fully mechanically connected to) the second connecting space of the second housing body 310b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC. In the second connected state, the protrusion 12 of the second body 10 engages in the second connecting space of the second housing body 310b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC and abuts against the second main body portion 110b of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2.

[0307] The second body 10 may also include the aforementioned tubular portion 13. The tubular portion 13 and the protrusion 12 define a generally annular shape (e.g., a polygonal annular shape, such as a generally quadrilateral annular shape (see [link]). Figures 8A to 10B A second insertion space, or a roughly circular annular shape (not shown).

[0308] When the second connector portion FC2 is provided with a second housing 400, in the semi-connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 of the second connector portion FC2 is partially engaged (not fully mechanically connected) in the second insertion space. In this case, in the second connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 of the second connector portion FC2 is fully engaged in the second insertion space in the Y-Y' direction.

[0309] When the second connector portion FC2 is not provided with a second housing 400, in the semi-connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 is partially engaged (not fully mechanically connected) in the second insertion space. In this case, in the second connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 is fully engaged in the second insertion space in the Y-Y' direction.

[0310] The top plate of the tubular portion 13 may be provided with a recess 13c. The recess 13c is as described above. In the semi-connected state or the second connected state, the disc 610a of the rotating rod 600 of the second connector portion FC2 is partially received in the recess 13c. The recess 13c may have a curved surface that bends along the outer peripheral surface of the disc 610a. This arrangement avoids interference between the disc 610a of the rotating rod 600 and the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2. The central axis of the curved surface of the recess 13c may be located on the Y' direction side relative to the distal end face of the Y' direction side of the second body 10.

[0311] The second mating connector MC2 also includes an abutment portion 14. The abutment portion 14 is a protrusion on the bottom surface of the recess 13c and protrudes in the Z direction. If the recess 13c is not provided, the abutment portion 14 is a protrusion on the top plate of the tubular portion 13 and protrudes in the Z direction.

[0312] The base plate of the tubular portion 13 may be provided with a plurality of engaging protrusions 15 protruding in the Z' direction. The plurality of engaging protrusions 15 engage in corresponding second engaging holes 3 of the second circuit board B2. The base plate of the tubular portion 13 may also be provided with locking recesses 13b. The engaging protrusions 15 and / or locking recesses 13b may be omitted.

[0313] The second mating connector MC2 includes at least one second terminal 20, which can be a single second terminal 20 or multiple second terminals 20. For ease of explanation, at least one second terminal 20 is described as multiple second terminals 20. However, if a single second terminal 20 is provided, the second terminal 20 can also be configured similarly to each second terminal 20.

[0314] Each of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2 may be identical in shape to each of the first terminals 20 of the first mating connector MC1 (see [link]). Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B Alternatively, each of the plurality of second terminals 20 may be constructed similarly to each of the first terminals 20 described above in the first mating connector MC1, but different in shape (not shown). Therefore, the same reference numerals as those used for the first terminals 20 and their sub-elements will be used to denote the second terminals 20 and their sub-elements.

[0315] The second retainable portions 22 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are generally L-shaped plates and are securely received from the Y-direction side in the corresponding retaining grooves 11a of the base 11 of the second body 10 and the corresponding retaining holes 12a of the protrusions 12. Therefore, the second retainable portions 22 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are held in the second body 10 at intervals in the X-X' direction.

[0316] The second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may extend from the corresponding second connection portions 24 in the Y' direction. The second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may each be composed of a plate (not shown), a rod (not shown), or a tube (not shown), and may have a forked shape including a first contact arm 21a and a second contact arm 21a (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figures 9A to 11B The second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 protrude or are exposed at least partially from the second body 10, making them visible from the Y' direction side.

[0317] When the second body 10 includes a plurality of connection holes 12b, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are disposed in the corresponding connection holes 12b from the Y direction side and are at least partially exposed from the corresponding connection holes 12b in the Y' direction. In the semi-connected state, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, which at least partially protrude from the second body 100b, are received from the Y' direction side in the corresponding connection holes 12b of the second body 10, slide a distance less than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 in the Y-Y' direction, and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21. In this case, in the second connected state, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, which at least partially protrude from the second body 100b, are received from the Y' direction side in the corresponding connection holes 12b of the second body 10, slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20, and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21. Alternatively, in the half-connection configuration, at least partially protruding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC from the second body 100b are received in the corresponding connection holes 12b of the second body 10 from the Y' direction side, but may not contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20. In the second connection state, at least partially protruding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC from the second body 100b are received in the corresponding connection holes 12b of the second body 10 from the Y' direction side and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20.

[0318] When the second body 10 does not include the plurality of connecting holes 12b, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 protrude at least partially from the corresponding retaining holes 12a in the Y' direction. In the half-connected state, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, which protrude at least partially from the second body 100b, can slide a distance less than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 in the Y-Y' direction and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21. In this case, in the second connected state, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, which protrude at least partially from the second body 100b, slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21. Alternatively, in the half-connected state, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, which protrude at least partially from the second body 100b, may not contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20. In this configuration, in the second connected state, at least partially, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, protruding from the second body 100b, contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20. Alternatively, in the half-connected state, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may be received in the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, and may slide a distance less than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 in the Y-Y' direction, and contact the corresponding second contact portions 210b. In this configuration, in the second connected state, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are received in the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2, and contact the corresponding second contact portions 210b. Alternatively, in the semi-connected state, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are received in the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, but may not contact the corresponding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2. In this case, in the second connected state, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 are received in the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC, and contact the corresponding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2.

[0319] In the case where the second contact portion 210b of each terminal 200 of the second connector section FC2 of the connector FC is composed of a plate or rod inclined in the second inclined direction (see...), Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B Each second terminal 20's second connecting portion 24 can be bent or flexed such that the first contact arm 21a and the second contact arm 21a of each second terminal 20 can elastically contact the first surface 211b and the second surface 212b of the corresponding second contact portion 210b from one side and the other side of the fourth inclined direction (substantially perpendicular to the first surface 211b and the second surface 212b, respectively), wherein the fourth inclined direction is substantially orthogonal to the second inclined direction. Alternatively, each second terminal 20's second connecting portion 24 can be bent or flexed such that the plate-like or rod-like second contact portion 21 of each second terminal 20 can contact the first surface 211b or the second surface 212b of the corresponding second contact portion 210b from one side or the other side of the fourth inclined direction.

[0320] In the case that each terminal 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC includes a second contact arm and a second contact arm (not shown) that are inclined in a second inclined direction, the second connecting portion 24 of each second terminal 20 can be bent or flexed such that the first and second surfaces of the second contact portion 21 of each second terminal 20 are inclined in a fourth inclined direction, and the first and second contact arms of the second contact portion 210b can respectively elastically contact the first and second surfaces of the corresponding second contact portion 21 from one side and the other side of the second inclined direction (forming substantially right angles to the first and second surfaces of the second contact portion 21 respectively).

[0321] The second connection portions 24 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may not be bent or folded, but extend straight from the corresponding second retainable portions 22 to the corresponding second contact portions 21 (not shown).

[0322] The second connection portion 24 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may be omitted. In this case, the second contact portion 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may extend from the corresponding second retainable portion 22 in the Y' direction.

[0323] The second pin portions 23 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may extend in the Y direction from the corresponding second retainable portions 22, be disposed on the Y direction side relative to the second body 10, and be connected to the corresponding second electrode 1 of the second circuit board B2, wherein the second electrode 1 is a surface electrode. Alternatively, the second pin portions 23 of the plurality of second terminals 20 may extend in the Z' direction from the corresponding second retainable portions 22, be disposed on the Z' direction side relative to the second body 10, and be connected to the corresponding second electrode 1 of the second circuit board B2, wherein the second electrode 1 is a through-hole electrode.

[0324] The second housing 30 of the second mating connector MC2 may be identical in shape to the first housing 30 of the first mating connector MC1 (see [link]). Figures 1A to 2D and Figures 8A to 10B Alternatively, the second housing 30 of the second mating connector MC2 may be constructed similarly to the second housing 300b of the first mating connector MC1 described above, but differ in shape (not shown). Therefore, the same reference numerals as those used for the first housing 30 and its sub-elements will be used to denote the second housing 30 and its sub-elements.

[0325] In a cross-sectional view along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions, the second housing body 31 of the second housing 30 has a generally U-shaped shape (not shown) or a generally annular shape (polygonal annular shape, such as a generally quadrilateral annular shape, or a generally circular annular shape (not shown)). The second housing body 31 of the second housing 30 extends in the Y-Y' direction. The second housing body 31 has an internal shape and internal dimensions in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions that correspond to the external shape and external dimensions of the second body 10 in cross-sections along the Z-Z' and X-X' directions. The second body 10 is at least partially housed in the second housing body 31 from the Y-direction side. The second housing body 31 includes a top plate on the Z-direction side, a first side plate on the X-direction side, and a second side plate on the X'-direction side.

[0326] When the tubular portion 13 of the second body 10 is provided with a first slit 13a and a second slit 13a, the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31 are exposed to the interior of the second housing body 31 from the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a, respectively. In the semi-connected state, the second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side and the second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC are respectively received in the first slit 13a and the second slit 13a, but do not reach the corresponding predetermined contact positions in the Y-Y' direction relative to the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31, and do not make elastic contact with the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31, respectively. Alternatively, in the semi-connected state, the second connecting portions 330b on the X-direction side and the second connecting portions 330b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC are respectively received in the first slot 13a and the second slot 13a, and are elastically in contact with the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31, respectively, but do not reach the corresponding predetermined contact positions in the Y-Y' direction relative to the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31, respectively. In the second connected state, the second connecting portions 330b on the X-direction side and the second connecting portions 330b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC are respectively received in the first slot 13a and the second slot 13a, and are elastically in contact with the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31, respectively, at the corresponding predetermined contact positions. Therefore, the second housing 30 is fully electrically connected to the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC in the second connected state. With the tubular portion 13 of the second body 10 omitted, in the semi-connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the connector FC is partially engaged (not fully mechanically connected) in the second insertion space and contacts the second housing body 31, but does not reach the predetermined contact position relative to the second housing body 31 in the Y-Y' direction. In the second connected state, the distal portion of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the connector FC is fully engaged in the second insertion space and contacts the second housing body 31. Similarly, in this way, the second housing 30 is electrically connected to the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC in the second connected state.

[0327] The top plate of the second outer shell body 31 is provided with a cutout 31a or opening for exposing the abutment portion 14 to the Z-direction side. When the recess 13c is provided, the cutout 31a may be the same in shape as the recess 13c when viewed from the Z-direction side, and the cutout 31a may be the same as or larger than the recess 13c in projected area when viewed from the Z-direction.

[0328] The second cover 32 of the second outer casing 30 is a plate continuous with the end of the top plate of the second outer casing body 31 on the Y-direction side, and covers the second body 10 from the Y-direction side. The second cover 32 may be omitted.

[0329] The second housing 30 may further include a plurality of first legs 33 on the X-direction side and a plurality of second legs 33 on the X'-direction side. Each first leg 33 extends in the Z'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the first side plate of the second housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding second ground electrode in the second ground electrode 2 (a through-hole electrode) of the second circuit board B2, or alternatively, extends in the X-direction from the Z'-direction end of the first side plate of the second housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding second ground electrode in the second ground electrode 2 (a surface electrode) of the second circuit board B2. Each second leg 33 extends in the Z'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the second housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding second ground electrode in the second ground electrode 2 (a through-hole electrode) of the second circuit board B2, or alternatively, extends in the X'-direction from the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the second housing body 31 and connects to a corresponding second ground electrode in the second ground electrode 2 (a surface electrode) of the second circuit board B2. Note that the plurality of first legs 33 and the plurality of second legs 33 may be omitted.

[0330] The second housing 30 may further include a plurality of locking elements. The plurality of locking elements are a plurality of first locking elements 34, a plurality of second locking elements 35, and / or a plurality of third locking elements 36. Each first locking element 34 is a bent member disposed at the Z'-direction end of the first side plate or the Z'-direction end of the second side plate of the second housing body 31, and abuts against the second body 10 from the Z'-direction side. Each second locking element 35 is a bent member disposed at the Z'-direction end of the first cover 32, and abuts against the second body 10 from the Z'-direction side. Each third locking element 36 is a generally L-shaped bent member at the X-direction end or the X'-direction end of the first cover 32, and is received from the Z'-direction side in a corresponding locking groove 11b of the second body 10.

[0331] Multiple locking elements of the second outer casing 30 can be omitted. If multiple third locking elements 36 are omitted, the locking groove 11b of the second body 10 is also omitted.

[0332] The following describes how the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second connector FC2 is associated with the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2.

[0333] The locking groove 613 includes a first wall surface 613a1, a second wall surface 613a2, a third wall surface 613b1, an inner peripheral surface 613c, an outer peripheral surface 613d, an opening 613a, a deep portion 613b, an inlet portion 613e, and a middle portion 613f.

[0334] The first wall surface 613a1 includes a first end and a second end opposite thereto. The second wall surface 613a2 includes a first end and a second end opposite thereto. The second wall surface 613a2 includes a facing region facing the first wall surface 613a1 and a non-facing region that is continuous with the facing region but does not face the first wall surface 613a1. The third wall surface 613b1 includes a first end and a second end opposite thereto.

[0335] The locking slot 613 has a state in the unlocked position (see...) Figure 2D In the case of a roughly arc-shaped protrusion protruding towards the X direction, in the unlocked state, the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the X direction side, the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the X' direction side relative to the first wall surface 613a1, and the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second wall surface 613a2 (specifically, opposite to the second wall surface 613a2) (see Figure 2D (This can be either a tilted direction side including components in the Y' and X directions (not shown) or a tilted direction side including components in the Y' and X' directions (not shown)). In this case, the first end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the first wall surface 613a1, the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the first wall surface 613a1, the first end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2, the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the second wall surface 613a2, the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, and the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1. When the lever body 610 includes a handle 610b, the handle 610b points in the X' direction in the unlocked state.

[0336] When the locking groove 613 has a generally arcuate shape that protrudes toward the X' direction side in the unlocked state (not shown), in the unlocked state, the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the X' direction side, the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the X direction side relative to the first wall surface 613a1, and the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second wall surface 613a2 (in particular, on the side opposite to the second wall surface 613a2, or on the side of the inclined direction that includes the components of the Y' direction and the X direction, or on the side of the inclined direction that includes the components of the Y' direction and the X' direction). In this configuration, the first end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the first wall surface 613a1, and the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the first wall surface 613a1. Similarly, the first end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2, and the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the second wall surface 613a2. The first end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, and the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1. When the lever body 610 includes a handle 610b, the handle 610b points in the X-direction in the unlocked state.

[0337] The inner circumferential surface 613c is a curved surface extending from the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1, and is upright in the Z-Z' direction. The inner circumferential surface 613c is disposed outside the shaft hole 611 of the rotating rod 600 in the normal direction. The inner circumferential surface 613c includes an open side region 613c1 facing the second wall surface 613a2 and an inner side region 613c2 facing the third wall surface 613b1. The outer circumferential surface 613d is a curved surface extending from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, and is upright in the Z-Z' direction. The outer circumferential surface 613d is disposed outside the inner circumferential surface 613c in the normal direction, and inside the outer wall surface of the disc 610a (if provided) of the rod body 610 in the normal direction. The outer peripheral surface 613d includes an inner region 613d1 facing the third wall surface 613b1. The inner region 613d1 and the inner region 613c2 face each other.

[0338] The locking slot 613 has a state in the unlocked position (see...) Figure 2D In the case of a generally arcuate shape protruding to the X direction, each of the inner peripheral surface 613c and the outer peripheral surface 613d is a curved surface with a generally arcuate shape protruding to the X direction in the unlocked state.

[0339] In the case where the locking groove 613 has a generally arcuate shape that protrudes toward the X' direction in the unlocked state (not shown), each of the inner circumferential surface 613c and the outer circumferential surface 613d is a curved surface with a generally arcuate shape that protrudes toward the X' direction in the unlocked state.

[0340] Note that the generally arc-shaped curved surface of the inner circumferential surface 613c can be a true arc shape, an elliptical arc shape, a curved surface with a gradually changing radius, or a curved surface composed of multiple consecutive arcs with different radii. The generally arc-shaped curved surface of the outer circumferential surface 613d can be a true arc shape, an elliptical arc shape, a curved surface with a gradually changing radius, or a curved surface composed of multiple consecutive arcs with different radii.

[0341] Opening 613a is the space between the facing areas of the first wall 613a1 and the second wall 613a2. Opening 613a is in the unlocked state (see...). Figure 2D It opens to the Y direction and is in the locked state (see...) Figure 2C It opens to the side in the Y' direction.

[0342] The inlet portion 613e is a space defined by the non-facing area of ​​the second wall surface 613a2 and the opening-side area 613c1 of the inner peripheral surface 613c, extending from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2. In the unlocked state, the inlet portion 613e is located on the Y' direction side relative to the opening 613a. The inlet portion 613e includes a first space 613e1 facing the opening 613a and a second space 613e2 facing the inner peripheral surface 613c. In the unlocked state, the first space 613e1 is located on the Y' direction side of the opening 613a and communicates with the opening 613a. In the unlocked state, the second space 613e2 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the first space 613e1 and communicates with the first space 613e1.

[0343] The inner portion 613b is a space defined by the inner region 613c2 of the inner peripheral surface 613c, the inner region 613d1 of the outer peripheral surface 613d, and the third wall surface 613b1. In the unlocked state, the inner portion 613b is located on the Y' direction side relative to the opening 613a (opposite to the opening 613a) (see [reference]). Figure 2D ), including the inclined direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y' direction and the X direction, or including the inclined direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y' direction and the X' direction. In the locked state, the inner side 613b is located on the Y direction side relative to the opening 613a (with the opening 613a (see Figure 2C Conversely, the tilting direction side including components of the Y direction and X' direction (not shown) or the tilting direction side including components of the Y direction and X' direction (not shown).

[0344] The middle part 613f is the space between the inlet part 613e and the inner part 613b, and is connected to the inlet part 613e and the inner part 613b.

[0345] The straight-line distance D from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (first straight-line distance)) is greater than the dimension d' of the abutment portion 14 in the Y-Y' direction. The straight-line distance d from the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 to the second end (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (second straight-line distance)) is less than the straight-line distance D. The straight-line distance d can be the same as or slightly greater than the dimension d'. The difference between the straight-line distance D and the dimension d' is the allowance C (introduction amount) for the abutment portion 14 in the opening 613a. The straight-line distance from the inner peripheral surface 613c to the outer peripheral surface 613d in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface 613c (third straight-line distance) gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1.

[0346] The central axis of the inner circumferential surface 613c coincides with the rotation axis P1, but the central axis P2 of the outer circumferential surface 613d can be offset by a straight line distance D1 (a straight line distance in the Y-Y' direction in the unlocked state) from the rotation axis P1 toward the opening 613a (in the unlocked state, toward the Y direction) (see...). Figure 2C and Figure 2D The straight-line distance from the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (the fifth straight-line distance)) can be approximately twice the radial dimension r of the inner circumferential surface 613c (the radial distance r' from the rotation axis P1 to the inner circumferential surface 613c). The straight-line distance D2 from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the rotation axis P1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction) is greater than the straight-line distance D3 from the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 to the rotation axis P1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction).

[0347] The sum of the difference between the radial dimension R of the outer peripheral surface 613d (the radial distance from the central axis P2 to the outer peripheral surface 613d) and the radial dimension r of the inner peripheral surface 613c and the straight distance D1 can be greater than the straight distance D7 (the sixth straight distance). In this case, Formula 1 defined below holds. The straight distance D7 is the straight distance in the Y-Y' direction from the end of the abutment portion 14 in the second mating connector MC2 on the Y-direction side to the distal end face of the second mating connector MC2 on the Y' direction side (e.g., the distal end face of the second body 10 on the Y' direction side). Note that the straight distance D7 is the same as the dimension d' in the first embodiment, but the straight distance D7 of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0348] Formula 1:

[0349] R-r+D1≥D7

[0350] In the unlocked state, when the second connector FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2 from the Y' direction side in the second connected state (not shown), the abutment portion 14 is received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 through the first space 613e1 of the guide portion 613e into the second space 613e2 of the guide portion 613e. The abutment portion 14 may abut against the opening side region 613c1 of the inner peripheral surface 613c, or it may face the opening side region 613c1, with a small gap between them. In this state where the abutment portion 14 is received in the second space 613e2 (in the second connected state), when the rotating rod 600 is rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, this rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner side 613b or the middle part 613f in the locking groove 613 from the second space 613e2. During this movement, the abutment portion 14 does not contact the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 and is not pressed from the Y direction side. However, when the abutment portion 14 has reached the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Alternatively, the abutment portion 14 does not contact the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 while moving relative to the point between the second space 613e2 and the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f. However, after passing the aforementioned point, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 until it reaches the inner portion 613b or the middle portion.

[0351] In the unlocked state, the second connector FC2 is connected from the Y' direction side to the second mating connector MC2 in a half-connected state (see...). Figure 2DIn the case of [unclear], the abutment portion 14 is at least partially received from the opening 613a into the first space 613e1 of the inlet portion 613e. For example, the entire abutment portion 14 may be received in the first space 613e1, or a portion of the abutment portion 14 on the Y-direction side may be received in the opening 613a and a portion of the abutment portion 14 on the Y'-direction side may be received in the first space 613e1. With the abutment portion 14 thus at least partially received in the first space 613e1 (in the half-connected state), when the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, this rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613 from the first space 613e1, and is also pressed from the Y-direction side (from the mating connector MC2 side) by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Therefore, the second connector FC2 moves relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, and the second connector FC2 changes from a half-connected state to a second connected state relative to the second mating connector MC2.

[0352] Note that the linear distance d, radial dimension r, radial dimension R, introduced margin C, and linear distance D can be defined by the relationships listed in Table 1 below. These relationships are non-restrictive examples.

[0353] Table 1

[0354]

[0355] When the recess 13c is provided, the straight-line distance D4 can be substantially the same as the straight-line distance D5. D4 is the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction from the central axis of the curved surface of the recess 13c to the distal end face of the second body 10 on the Y' direction side, and D5 is the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction from the rotation axis P1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 in the unlocked state. In this case, even if the second connector portion FC2 is in the second connection state relative to the second mating connector MC2, the rotating rod 600 can rotate between the unlocked state and the locked position, while avoiding interference between the rotating rod 600 and the curved surface of the recess 13c.

[0356] For example, the difference S between straight-line distances D2 and D3 can be the same as the difference between straight-line distances D6 and D7. Straight-line distance D6 is the straight-line distance from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction). In this case, by setting the difference S between straight-line distances D2 and D3, the allowable amount of floating of the second connector FC2 in the Y direction can be set, that is, the allowable amount of offset of the second circuit board B2 relative to the first circuit board B1 in the Y direction. For example, when D7 = 2mm and D6 = 4mm, S = D6 - D7 = 2mm holds. This means that even if the second mating connector MC2 shifts a maximum of 2mm in the Y direction relative to the first mating connector MC1, the second mating connector MC2 can be fully engaged by rotating the rotating rod 600. In this case, the allowable amount of floating of the second connector FC2 in the Y direction is 2mm.

[0357] The locking groove 613 of the aforementioned rotating rod 600 can be modified in any way, as long as it is configured such that, in the unlocked state, by connecting the second connector portion FC2 from the Y' direction side to the second mating connector MC2 in the semi-connected state, the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 is at least partially received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second connector portion FC2 into the inlet portion 613e, and by rotating the rotating rod 600 from the unlocked position to the locked position with the abutment portion 14 received in the inlet portion 613e, the abutment portion 14 moves relative to the inlet portion 613e in the locking groove 613 to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f, and is also pressed from the Y direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613, thereby causing the second connector portion FC2 to move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. Note that the rod body 610 of the aforementioned rotating rod 600 is not limited to a rod body having a disc 610a and a handle 610b, but the rod body 610 can have any other arbitrary external shape.

[0358] The following describes a non-limiting method for connecting the first connector portion FC1 of the floating connector FC to the first mating connector MC1.

[0359] The first connector portion FC1 is connected to the first mating connector MC1 from the Y' direction side. When the first connector portion FC1 is connected to the first mating connector MC1, the distal portion of the retaining portion 720 of the first housing 700 (if provided) of the first connector portion FC1 or the distal portion of the first housing body 310a of the first housing 300a (if the first housing 700 is not provided) engages from the Y' direction side into the first insertion space defined by the tubular portion 13 and the protrusion 12 of the first body 10 of the first mating connector MC1, and the protrusion 12 of the first mating connector MC1 engages in the first connection space of the first housing body 310a of the first connector portion FC1 and abuts against the first main body portion 110a of the first body 100a of the first connector portion FC1.

[0360] When the first body 10 of the first mating connector MC1 includes a plurality of connection holes 12b, when the first connector portion FC1 is connected to the first mating connector MC1, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1, which at least partially protrude from the first body 100a, are inserted from the Y' direction side into the corresponding connection holes 12b of the first body 10 of the first mating connector MC1 and contact the corresponding first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 of the first mating connector MC1.

[0361] When the first body 10 does not include the plurality of connection holes 12b, when the first connector portion FC1 is connected to the first mating connector MC1, the first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1, which at least partially protrude from the first body 100a, contact the corresponding first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20 of the first mating connector MC1, which at least partially protrude from the first body 10. Alternatively, the first contact portions 21 of the plurality of first terminals 20, which at least partially protrude from the first body 10, are inserted into the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the first connector portion FC1 and contact the corresponding first contact portions 210a of the plurality of terminals 200 of the first connector portion FC1.

[0362] In the case where the first contact portion 210a of each terminal 200 of the first connector section FC1 is composed of a plate or rod inclined in the first tilting direction (see 3A), Figure 3B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B The first contact arm 21a and the second contact arm 21a of the first contact portion 21 of each first terminal 20 of the first mating connector MC1 are in elastic contact with the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the first contact portion 210a of each terminal 200 of the first connector portion FC1, respectively, which are substantially at right angles.

[0363] When the tubular portion 13 of the first mating connector MC1 is provided with a first slot 13a and a second slot 13a, when the first mating connector MC1 is connected to the first connector portion FC1, the first connecting portion 330a on the X-direction side and the first connecting portion 330a on the X'-direction side of the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1 are respectively inserted into the first slot 13a and the second slot 13a of the first mating connector MC1, and respectively elastically contact the first side plate and the second side plate of the first housing body 31 of the first housing 30 of the first mating connector MC1. Therefore, the first housing 30 of the first mating connector MC1 is electrically connected to the first housing 300a of the first connector portion FC1.

[0364] When the first housing 700 with connector FC has a locking arm 750 and the tubular portion 13 of the first mating connector MC1 has a locking recess 13b, the locking arm 750 is locked into the locking recess 13b when the first connector portion FC1 is connected to the first mating connector MC1. This allows the first connection state to be maintained, in which the first connector portion FC1 is fully mechanically and electrically connected to the first mating connector MC1. The first connection state between the first connector portion FC1 and the first mating connector MC1 will not be released unless the locking arm 750 is released from the locking recess 13b. Therefore, in an environment using connection structure CB1, even if the first connector portion FC1 and / or the first mating connector MC1 are subjected to vibration or impact from the outside, the first connection state will not be released, or the first connection state will not change to a half-connection state (i.e., the first connector portion FC1 is at least mechanically connected to the first mating connector MC1 from the Y' direction side, but can move relative to the first mating connector MC1 in the Y direction side). Therefore, connection structure CB1 is suitable as a connection structure requiring vibration and shock resistance. The following describes a non-limiting method for connecting the second connector portion FC2 of the floating connector FC to the second mating connector MC2.

[0365] The second connector FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2 from the Y' direction side. When the second connector FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2, the distal portion of the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 of the second connector FC2 (if provided) or the distal portion of the second housing body 310b of the second housing 300b of the second connector FC2 (if the second housing 400 is not provided) engages from the Y' direction side into the second insertion space defined by the tubular portion 13 and the protrusion 12 of the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2, and the protrusion 12 of the second mating connector MC2 engages in the second connection space of the second housing body 310b of the second connector FC2 and abuts against the second main body portion 110b of the second body 100b of the second connector FC2.

[0366] When the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2 includes a plurality of connection holes 12b, when the second connector portion FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2, which at least partially protrude from the second body 100b, are inserted from the Y' direction side into the corresponding connection holes 12b of the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2 and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2.

[0367] When the second body 10 does not include the plurality of connection holes 12b, when the second connector portion FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2, which at least partially protrude from the second body 100b, contact the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2, which at least partially protrude from the second body 10. Alternatively, the second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20, which at least partially protrude from the second body 10, are inserted into the corresponding connection holes of the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 and contact the corresponding second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2.

[0368] In the case where the second contact portion 210b of each of the plurality of terminals 200 in the second connector section FC2 is composed of a plate or rod inclined in a third inclined direction (see 3A), Figure 3B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B The first contact arm 21a and the second contact arm 21a of the second contact portion 21 of each second terminal 20 of the second mating connector MC2 are in resilient contact with the first surface 211a and the second surface 212a of the second contact portion 210b of each of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2, respectively, which are substantially at right angles.

[0369] When the tubular portion 13 of the second mating connector MC2 is provided with a first slot 13a and a second slot 13a, when the second mating connector MC2 is connected to the second connector portion FC2, the second connecting portion 330b on the X-direction side and the second connecting portion 330b on the X'-direction side of the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2 are respectively inserted into the first slot 13a and the second slot 13a of the second mating connector MC2, and respectively elastically contact the first side plate and the second side plate of the second housing body 31 of the second housing 30 of the second mating connector MC2. Therefore, the second housing 30 of the second mating connector MC2 is electrically connected to the second housing 300b of the second connector portion FC2.

[0370] Even when the first circuit board B1 and the second circuit board B2 are fixed in an electronic device (not shown) to mount the first circuit board B1 and the second circuit board B2, and the second mating connector MC2 is in a position offset from the second normal position relative to the first mating connector MC1 in a direction including at least one directional component, when the second mating connector MC2 is connected to the second connector portion FC2, the elastically deformable portions 230 of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 elastically deform in a direction including at least one directional component, causing the second connector portion FC2 to shift in the same direction. In other words, when the second mating connector MC2 is connected to the second connector portion FC2, depending on the offset position of the second mating connector MC2, the second connector portion FC2 shifts in a direction including one directional component, in a direction including two components, or in a direction including all three components mentioned above. This allows the second connector portion FC2 to be easily connected to the second mating connector MC2.

[0371] The rotating lever 600, in the unlocked state, rotates approximately 180 degrees. This causes the locking protrusion 450 on the X' direction side of the second housing 400 to disengage from the locking recess 614 of the rotating lever 600. When the rotating lever 600 has rotated approximately 180 degrees, the locking protrusion 450 on the X direction side of the second housing 400 engages with the locking recess 614, and the rotating lever 600 enters the locked state. During the rotation of the rotating lever 600, the abutment 14 inserts into and subsequently locks into the locking groove 613 of the rotating lever 600. When the rotating lever 600 rotates approximately 180 degrees in the opposite direction, the rotating lever 600 enters the unlocked state.

[0372] When the second connector FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2 from the Y' direction side, and in the second connection state, the abutment portion 14 is received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 through the first space 613e1 of the guide portion 613e into the second space 613e2 of the guide portion 613e. In the second connection state, the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, causing the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613 from the second space 613e2. At this time, the abutment portion 14 is not pressed from the Y direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613, but when the abutment portion 14 has reached the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Alternatively, the abutment portion 14 is not pressed by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 while it moves relative to the point between the second space 613e2 and the inner side portion 613b or the middle portion 613f. Instead, the abutment portion 14 abuts the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 only after passing that point until it reaches the inner side portion 613b or the middle portion.

[0373] When the second connector portion FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2 from the Y' direction side, and the second connector portion FC2 is connected to the second mating connector MC2 in a half-connected state, the abutment portion 14 is at least partially received from the opening 613a into the first space 613e1 of the inlet portion 613e. In this half-connected state, when the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, this rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613 from the first space 613e1 and is also pressed from the Y direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Therefore, the second connector portion FC2 moves relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, and the second connector portion FC2 changes from the half-connected state to the second connected state (fully connected state) relative to the second mating connector MC2. At this time, the second connector part FC2, which is in a semi-fitted state relative to the second mating connector MC2, is fully fitted into the second mating connector MC2 in one of the above-described ways and is fully mechanically connected to the second mating connector MC2, and the second connector part FC2 is fully electrically connected to the second mating connector MC2 in the manner described below.

[0374] In the semi-connected state, when the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC slide a distance shorter than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the mating connector MC2 in the Y-Y' direction and contact the corresponding second contact portions 21, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 presses the abutment portion 14 from the Y direction side to cause the second connector portion FC2 to move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, so that the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 slide a remaining distance of a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the mating connector MC2, thereby maintaining the state in which the plurality of second terminals 20 are in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21.

[0375] In the semi-connected state, when the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC are not in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 presses the abutment portion 14 from the Y direction side to move the second connector portion FC2 relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, so that the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2, thereby maintaining the state in which the plurality of second terminals 20 are in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21.

[0376] The above-mentioned connector FC provides the following technical features and effects (1) and (2).

[0377] Technical features and effects (1): By rotating the rotating rod 600 of the second connector part FC2 of the connector FC, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 is used to press the abutment part 14 of the second mating connector MC2 from the Y direction side and make the second connector part FC2 move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. The second connector part FC2, which is in a semi-fitting state relative to the second mating connector MC2, is fully fitted into the second mating connector MC2 in one of the above-described ways and is fully mechanically connected to the second mating connector MC2. The second connector part FC2 is also fully electrically connected to the second mating connector MC2 in one of the above-described ways.

[0378] When the second mating connector MC2 is in a position offset from the second normal position in the Y direction or Y' direction, the second connector part FC2 can easily connect to the second mating connector MC2 in a half-connected state. However, in the half-connected state, by rotating the rotating rod 600 of the second connector part FC2, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 is used to press the abutment part 14 of the second mating connector MC2 from the Y direction side, and the second connector part FC2 moves relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, the second connector part FC2 can change from the half-connected state to the fully connected state relative to the second mating connector MC2.

[0379] Furthermore, in the semi-connected state, when the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 slide less than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2, by rotating the rotating rod 600 of the second connector portion FC2 in the semi-connected state, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 is used to press the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 from the Y direction side and cause the second connector portion FC2 to move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction, the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 can slide the remaining distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2. In the semi-connected state, where the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 are not in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2, by rotating the rotating rod 600 of the second connector portion FC2 in the semi-connected state, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 presses the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 from the Y direction side, causing the second connector portion FC2 to move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. The second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2 can slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2. In either case, when the second connector portion FC2 is fully connected to the second mating connector MC2, the second contact portions 210b slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21. Even if the second mating connector MC2 is in a position offset from the second normal position in the Y direction or Y' direction, it can be ensured that the second contact portions 210b slide a predetermined distance relative to the second contact portions 21.

[0380] Furthermore, when the straight-line distance D from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 of the locking groove 613 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is greater than the dimension d' in the Y-Y' direction of the abutment portion 14, the straight-line distance d from the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 of the locking groove 613 to the second end is less than the straight-line distance D, and the straight-line distance in the radial direction of the inner peripheral surface 613c to the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, by rotating the rotating rod 600, the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 can be pressed from the Y direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600, and the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC can be appropriately moved relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. Furthermore, when the straight-line distance d is equal to or slightly greater than the dimension d', by rotating the rotating rod 600, the abutment 14 can be moved from the opening 613a in the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 to the inner side 613b and the abutment 14 can be held in the inner side 613b.

[0381] When the central axis of the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613 is aligned with the rotation axis P1, but the central axis P2 of the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 is offset by a straight line distance D1 from the rotation axis P1 toward the opening 613a (in the unlocked state, toward the Y direction), by rotating the rotating rod 600, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 can press the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 from the Y direction side, and the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC moves appropriately relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. At the same time, the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 moving in the locking groove 613 has difficulty contacting the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613 or has difficulty sliding on the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613.

[0382] Technical features and effects (2): When the second connector part FC2 includes a first stop 440 and a second stop 440, the first stop 440 abuts against the handle 610b of the rod body 610 from the Y direction side in the locked state, and the second stop 440 abuts against the handle 610b of the rod body 610 from the Y direction side in the unlocked state. This arrangement prevents the rotating rod 600 from rotating beyond a predetermined rotation range.

[0383] The connection structure CB1, including the connector FC, provides similar technical features and effects as the connector FC.

[0384] Second Embodiment

[0385] Now refer to Figures 12A to 12BThe connection structure CB2 (combination) of the connector is described according to several embodiments (including the second embodiment of the present invention and its variations). Figures 12A to 12B The connection structure CB2 of the second embodiment is shown.

[0386] The connection structure CB2 is similar in construction to the connection structure CB1, but the difference is that the second mating connector MC2' (main connector) includes a rotating rod 600, and the floating connector FC' (which can be simply referred to as "connector FC" (secondary connector)) includes a second connector portion FC2' with an abutment portion 14. The connection structure CB2 will be described below, focusing on the differences from the connection structure CB1 and omitting repeated descriptions.

[0387] The top plate of the tubular portion 13 of the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2' may be provided with a recess 13c as described above.

[0388] In the case where a shaft 430 is provided on the bottom surface of the recess 13c and the shaft 430 is a cylinder provided on the bottom surface of the recess 13c, the shaft 430 is received in the shaft hole 611 of the rod body 610 of the rotating rod 600, and the screw or pin 620 of the rotating rod 600 is fixedly received in the shaft hole of the shaft 430. Furthermore, the rod body 610 can be in the unlocked position (see [reference]) around the shaft 430 on the bottom surface of the recess 13c. Figure 12B ) and locking location (see Figure 12A Rotate between ).

[0389] When a shaft hole is provided on the bottom surface of the recess 13c instead of the shaft 430, the shaft hole of the second body 10 communicates with the shaft hole 611 of the rod body 610 of the rotating rod 600, and the screw or pin 620 is fixedly received in the shaft hole 611 and the shaft hole of the second body 10. Furthermore, the rod body 610 can rotate around the screw or pin 620 on the bottom surface of the recess 13c between an unlocked position and a locked position.

[0390] When the locking protrusion 450 on the X-direction side and the locking protrusion 450 on the X'-direction side are provided, they can also be provided on the bottom surface of the recess 13c.

[0391] When the recess 13c is omitted, the shaft 430 or shaft hole of the second body 10 is provided at the top plate of the second body 10. When the locking protrusion 450 on the X direction side and the locking protrusion 450 on the X' direction side are provided, they can also be provided on the top plate of the second body 10.

[0392] The abutting portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' is a protrusion on the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 and protrudes in the Z direction.

[0393] The following describes how the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second mating connector MC2' is associated with the abutment portion 14 of the second connector part FC2'.

[0394] Opening 613a in the unlocked state (see Figure 12B It opens to the Y' direction and is in the locked state (see...) Figure 12A The locking groove 613 opens towards the Y-direction. In the unlocked state, the guide portion 613e of the locking groove 613 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the opening 613a. The first space 613e1 of the guide portion 613e is located on the Y-direction side relative to the opening 613a in the unlocked state. The second space 613e2 of the guide portion 613e is located on the Y-direction side relative to the first space 613e1 in the unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the inner portion 613b of the locking groove 613 is located on the Y-direction side relative to the opening 613a (opposite to the opening 613a). (See...) Figure 12B ), including the inclined direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y direction and X direction, or including the inclined direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y direction and X' direction. In the locked state, the inner side 613b is located on the Y' direction side relative to the opening 613a (opposite to the opening 613a (see Figure 12A ), including the tilt direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y' direction and X' direction, or including the tilt direction side (not shown) of the components in the Y' direction and X' direction.

[0395] The locking slot 613 has a state in the unlocked position (see...) Figure 12BIn the case of a generally arc-shaped shape protruding towards the X direction, in the unlocked state, the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the X direction side, the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the X' direction side relative to the first wall surface 613a1, and the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the second wall surface 613a2 (in particular, on the inclined direction side opposite to the second wall surface 613a2, including components of the Y and X directions, or on the inclined direction side including components of the Y and X' directions). In this configuration, the first end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the first wall surface 613a1, the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the first end of the first wall surface 613a1, the first end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2, the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the first end of the second wall surface 613a2, the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, and the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1. Each of the inner circumferential surface 613c and the outer circumferential surface 613d of the locking groove 613 is a generally arc-shaped curved surface that protrudes towards the X direction side in the unlocked state. When the lever body 610 includes a handle 610b, the handle 610b points in the X' direction in the unlocked state.

[0396] When the locking groove 613 has a generally arcuate shape that protrudes toward the X' direction side in the unlocked state (not shown), in the unlocked state, the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the X' direction side, the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the X direction side relative to the first wall surface 613a1, and the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the second wall surface 613a2 (in particular, the inclined direction side opposite to the second wall surface 613a2, including components of the Y and X directions, or the inclined direction side including components of the Y and X' directions). In this configuration, the first end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the first wall surface 613a1, the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the first end of the first wall surface 613a1, the first end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2, the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is located on the Y direction side relative to the first end of the second wall surface 613a2, the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y' direction side relative to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, and the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 is located on the Y direction side relative to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1. Each of the inner circumferential surface 613c and the outer circumferential surface 613d of the locking groove 613 is a generally arc-shaped curved surface that protrudes towards the X' direction side in the unlocked state. When the lever body 610 includes a handle 610b, the handle 610b points in the X direction in the unlocked state.

[0397] The straight-line distance D from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (first straight-line distance)) is greater than the dimension d' of the abutment portion 14 in the Y-Y' direction. The straight-line distance d from the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 to the second end (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (second straight-line distance)) is less than the straight-line distance D. The straight-line distance d can be the same as or slightly greater than the dimension d'. The difference between the straight-line distance D and the dimension d' is the allowance C for the abutment portion 14 in the opening 613a. The straight-line distance from the inner peripheral surface 613c to the outer peripheral surface 613d in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface 613c (third straight-line distance) gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1.

[0398] The central axis of the inner circumferential surface 613c coincides with the rotation axis P1, but the central axis P2 of the outer circumferential surface 613d can be offset by a straight line distance D1 (a straight line distance in the Y-Y' direction in the unlocked state) from the rotation axis P1 toward the opening 613a (in the unlocked state, toward the Y direction) (see...). Figure 12A and Figure 12BThe straight-line distance from the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 to the first end of the third wall surface 613b1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction (the fifth straight-line distance)) can be approximately twice the radial dimension r of the inner circumferential surface 613c (the radial distance r' from the rotation axis P1 to the inner circumferential surface 613c). The straight-line distance D2 from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the rotation axis P1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction) is greater than the straight-line distance D3 from the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 to the rotation axis P1 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction).

[0399] The sum of the difference between the radial dimension R of the outer peripheral surface 613d (the radial distance from the central axis P2 to the outer peripheral surface 613d) and the radial dimension r of the inner peripheral surface 613c and the straight distance D1 can be greater than the straight distance D7' (the seventh straight distance). In this case, Formula 1 defined above holds. The straight distance D7' is the straight distance in the Y-Y' direction from the end of the abutment portion 14 in the second connector portion FC2' on the Y' direction side to the far end face of the second connector portion FC2' on the Y direction side (e.g., the far end face of the second housing body 410 of the second housing 400 on the Y direction side).

[0400] In the unlocked state, when the second connector FC2' is connected to the second mating connector MC2' from the Y' direction side in the second connected state (not shown), the abutment portion 14 is received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 through the first space 613e1 of the guide portion 613e into the second space 613e2 of the guide portion 613e. The abutment portion 14 may abut against the opening side region 613c1 of the inner peripheral surface 613c, or it may face the opening side region 613c1, with a small gap between them. In this state where the abutment portion 14 is received in the second space 613e2 (in the second connected state), when the rotating rod 600 is rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position, this rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner side 613b or the middle part 613f in the locking groove 613 from the second space 613e2. During this movement, the abutment portion 14 does not contact the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 and is not pressed from the Y' direction side. However, when the abutment portion 14 has reached the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Alternatively, the abutment portion 14 does not contact the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 while moving relative to the point between the second space 613e2 and the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f. However, after passing the aforementioned point, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 until it reaches the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f.

[0401] In the unlocked state, the second connector FC2' is connected from the Y' direction side to the second mating connector MC2' in the half-connected state (see...). Figure 12B In the case of [unclear], the abutment portion 14 is at least partially received from the opening 613a into the first space 613e1 of the inlet portion 613e. For example, the entire abutment portion 14 may be received in the first space 613e1, or the Y' direction side portion of the abutment portion 14 may be received in the opening 613a and the Y direction side portion of the abutment portion 14 may be received in the first space 613e1. With the abutment portion 14 thus at least partially received in the first space 613e1 (in the half-connected state), when the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, this rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613 from the first space 613e1, and is also pressed from the Y' direction side (from the sub-connector side) by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Therefore, the second connector portion FC2' moves relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction, and the second connector portion FC2' changes from a half-connected state to a second connected state relative to the second mating connector MC2'.

[0402] Note that the linear distance d, radial dimension r, radial dimension R, introduced margin C, and linear distance D can be defined by the relationships listed in Table 1 above. These relationships are non-restrictive examples.

[0403] For example, the difference S between straight-line distances D2 and D3 can be the same as the difference between straight-line distances D6 and D7'. Straight-line distance D6 is the straight-line distance from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 (in the unlocked state, the straight-line distance in the Y-Y' direction). In this case, by setting the difference S between straight-line distances D2 and D3, the allowable amount of floating of the second connector portion FC2' in the Y direction can be set, that is, the allowable amount of offset of the second circuit board B2 relative to the first circuit board B1 in the Y direction. For example, when D7 = 2mm and D6 = 4mm, S = D6 - D7 = 2mm holds. This means that even if the second mating connector MC2' shifts a maximum of 2mm in the Y direction relative to the first mating connector MC1, the second mating connector MC2 can be fully engaged by rotating the rotating rod 600. In this case, the allowable amount of floating of the second connector portion FC2' in the Y direction is 2mm.

[0404] The locking groove 613 of the aforementioned rotating rod 600 can be modified in any way, as long as it is configured such that, in the unlocked state, by connecting the second connector portion FC2' from the Y' direction side to the second mating connector MC2' in the semi-connected state, the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' is at least partially received into the inlet portion 613e from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second mating connector MC2', and by rotating the rotating rod 600 from the unlocked position to the locked position with the abutment portion 14 received into the inlet portion 613e, the abutment portion 14 moves relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613, and is also pressed from the Y' direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613, thereby causing the second connector portion FC2' to move relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction. Note that the rod body 610 of the aforementioned rotating rod 600 is not limited to a rod body having a disc 610a and a handle 610b, but the rod body 610 can have any other arbitrary external shape.

[0405] When the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2' is provided with a recess 13c, a pair of stops 440 protruding in the Z-direction can be provided on the bottom surface of the recess 13c. When the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2' is not provided with a recess 13c, a pair of stops 440 protruding in the Z-direction can be provided on the top plate of the tubular portion 13 of the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2'. The pair of stops 440 includes a first stop 440 on the X-direction side and a second stop 440 on the X'-direction side. In the locked state, the first stop 440 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the handle 610b of the rod body 610 and abuts against the handle 610b from the Y'-direction side. In the unlocked state, the second stop 440 is located on the Y'-direction side relative to the handle 610b of the rod body 610 and abuts against the handle 610b from the Y'-direction side. Therefore, the pair of stops 440 defines the rotation range of the rotating rod 600. A pair of stops 440 and / or locking protrusions 450 can be omitted.

[0406] The first connector portion FC1 and the first mating connector MC1 of the connector FC' of the connecting structure CB2 can be connected together in a manner similar to the non-limiting method described above for connecting the first connector portion FC1 and the first mating connector MC1 of the floating connector FC in the connecting structure CB1.

[0407] In addition to the following steps, the second connector portion FC2' and the second mating connector MC2' of the connector FC' of the connecting structure CB2 can be connected in a manner similar to the above-described non-limiting method for connecting the second connector portion FC2 and the second mating connector MC2 of the connector FC of the connecting structure CB1.

[0408] When the second connector FC2' is connected to the second mating connector MC2' from the Y' direction side in the second connection state, the abutment portion 14 is received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 through the first space 613e1 of the guide portion 613e into the second space 613e2 of the guide portion 613e. In the second connection state, the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, which causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner part 613b or the middle part 613f in the locking groove 613 from the second space 613e2. At this time, the abutment portion 14 is not pressed from the Y' direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613, but when the abutment portion 14 has reached the inner part 613b or the middle part 613f, the abutment portion 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Alternatively, the abutting part 14 is not pressed by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 while it moves relative to the point between the second space 613e2 and the inner side part 613b or the middle part 613f. Instead, the abutting part 14 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 after passing the aforementioned point until it reaches the inner side part 613b or the middle part.

[0409] When the second connector portion FC2' is connected to the second mating connector MC2' from the Y' direction side in a semi-connected state, the abutment portion 14 is at least partially received from the opening 613a into the first space 613e1 of the inlet portion 613e. In this semi-connected state, when the rotating rod 600 rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position, the rotation causes the abutment portion 14 to move relative to the inner portion 613b or the middle portion 613f in the locking groove 613 from the first space 613e1, and is also pressed from the Y' direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613. Therefore, the second connector portion FC2' moves relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction, and the second connector portion FC2' changes from a semi-connected state to a second connected state (fully connected state) relative to the second mating connector MC2'.

[0410] The aforementioned connector FC' provides the following technical features and effects.

[0411] By rotating the rotating rod 600 of the second mating connector MC2', the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 presses the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' of the connector FC' from the Y' direction side, and the second connector portion FC2' moves relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction. This is similar to the way the second mating connector MC2', which is in a semi-fitted state relative to the second mating connector MC2', is fully fitted into the second mating connector MC2' and is fully mechanically connected to the second mating connector MC2'. Furthermore, the second connector portion FC2' is also fully electrically connected to the second mating connector MC2' in one of the above-described ways.

[0412] Even when the second connector part FC2' is half-connected to the second mating connector MC2' from the Y' direction, the abutting part 14 of the second connector part FC2' is at least partially received from the opening 613a of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second mating connector MC2' into the first space 613e1 of the guide part 613e of the locking groove 613.

[0413] In the semi-connected state, when the second contact portion 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2' slides a distance shorter than a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portion 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2' and contacts the corresponding second contact portion 21, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 presses the abutment portion 14 from the Y' direction side to move the second connector portion FC2' relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction, so that the second contact portion 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2' slides the remaining distance of the predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portion 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2'.

[0414] In the semi-connected state, when the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2' are not in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2', the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 of the second mating connector MC2' presses the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' from the Y' direction side, causing the second connector portion FC2' to move relative to the second mating connector MC2' in the Y direction, so that the second contact portions 210b of the plurality of terminals 200 of the second connector portion FC2' slide a predetermined distance on the corresponding second contact portions 21 of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2', thereby maintaining the state in which the plurality of second terminals 200 are in contact with the corresponding second contact portions 21.

[0415] Furthermore, when the straight-line distance D from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 of the locking groove 613 to the second end of the second wall surface 613a2 is greater than the dimension d' of the abutment portion 14 in the Y-Y' direction, the straight-line distance d from the first end to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1 of the locking groove 613 is less than the straight-line distance D, and the straight-line distance from the inner peripheral surface 613c to the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface 613c gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall surface 613a1 to the second end of the third wall surface 613b1, by rotating the rotating rod 600, the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' can be pressed from the Y' direction side by the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600, and the second connector portion FC2' of the connector FC can be appropriately moved in the Y direction relative to the second mating connector MC2'. Furthermore, when the straight-line distance d is equal to or slightly greater than the dimension d', by rotating the rotating rod 600, the abutment 14 can be moved from the opening 613a in the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 to the inner side 613b and the abutment 14 can be held in the inner side 613b.

[0416] When the central axis of the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613 is aligned with the rotation axis P1, but the central axis P2 of the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 is offset by a straight line distance D1 from the rotation axis P1 toward the opening 613a (in the unlocked state, toward the Y direction), by rotating the rotating rod 600, the outer peripheral surface 613d of the locking groove 613 of the rotating rod 600 can press the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' from the Y' direction side, and the second connector portion FC2' of the connector FC' moves appropriately in the Y direction relative to the second mating connector MC2'. At the same time, the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2' moving in the locking groove 613 has difficulty contacting the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613 or has difficulty sliding on the inner peripheral surface 613c of the locking groove 613.

[0417] The connection structure CB2, including the connector FC', provides similar technical features and effects as the connector FC'.

[0418] Note that the connectors, first mating connectors, second mating connectors, and connection structures (combinations) described above are not limited to the embodiments described above, but can be modified in any way within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure. Some examples of modifications will now be described.

[0419] The first retainable portion 220a of at least one terminal 200 only needs to be retained in the first body 100a. For example, the first retainable portion 220a of at least one terminal 200 can be inserted into and retained by the first body 100a. The first retainable portion 22 of at least one first terminal 20 of the first mating connector MC1 also only needs to be retained in the first body 10, and can be inserted into and retained by the first body 10.

[0420] The second retainable portion 220b of at least one terminal 200 only needs to be retained within the second body 100b. For example, the second retainable portion 220b of at least one terminal 200 can be inserted into and retained by the second body 100b. The second retainable portion 22 of at least one second terminal 20 of the second mating connector MC2 also only needs to be retained within the second body 10, and can be inserted into and retained by the second body 10.

[0421] The first contact portion 210a of at least one terminal 200 can be accommodated in at least one first receiving groove (not shown) of the first body 100a, and can be exposed or protruded from at least one first receiving groove in the Z' direction, making it visible from the Y direction side. At least one first receiving groove is provided in the first body 100a and opens in the Z' direction. The first contact portion 21 of at least one first terminal 20 of the first mating connector MC1 can be accommodated in at least one first receiving groove (not shown) of the first body 10, and can be exposed or protruded from at least one first receiving groove in the Z direction, making it visible from the Y' direction side. At least one first receiving groove is provided in the first body 10 and opens in the Z direction.

[0422] The second contact portion 210b of at least one terminal 200 can be accommodated in at least one second receiving groove (not shown) of the second body 100b, and can be exposed or protruded from at least one second receiving groove in the Z' direction, making it visible from the Y direction side. At least one second receiving groove is disposed in the second body 100b and opens in the Z' direction. The second contact portion 21 of at least one second terminal 20 of the second mating connector MC2 can be accommodated in at least one second receiving groove (not shown) of the second body 10, and can be exposed or protruded from at least one second receiving groove in the Z direction, making it visible from the Y' direction side. At least one second receiving groove is disposed in the second body 10 and opens in the Z direction.

[0423] The first mating connector MC1 can be mounted on the first circuit board B1 from the Z' direction side. In this case, the first mating connector MC1 is oriented to rotate approximately 180 degrees in the Z-Z' direction. In this orientation, the first pin portion 23 of at least one first terminal 20 of the first mating connector MC1 can extend from the first retainable portion 22 in the Y direction, disposed on the Y direction side relative to the first body 10, and connected to at least one first electrode 1 of the first circuit board B1, the first electrode 1 being a surface electrode; or alternatively, it can extend from the first retainable portion 22 in the Z direction, disposed on the Z direction side relative to the first body 10, and connected to at least one first electrode 1 of the first circuit board B1, the first electrode 1 being a through-hole electrode. The first mating connector MC1 is capable of connecting to connectors other than the first connector portion FC1 of the connector FC.

[0424] The second mating connector MC2 can be mounted on the second circuit board B2 from the Z' direction side. In this case, the second mating connector MC2 is oriented to rotate approximately 180 degrees in the Z-Z' direction. In this orientation, the second pin portion 23 of at least one second terminal 20 of the second mating connector MC2 can extend from the second retainable portion 22 in the Y direction, disposed on the Y direction side relative to the second body 10, and connected to at least one second electrode 1 of the second circuit board B2, the second electrode 1 being a surface electrode; or alternatively, it can extend from the second retainable portion 22 in the Z direction, disposed on the Z direction side relative to the first body 10, and connected to at least one second electrode 1 of the second circuit board B2, the second electrode 1 being a through-hole electrode. The first mating connector MC1 can be connected to a connector other than the second connector portion FC2 of the connector FC.

[0425] The number of the plurality of first terminals 20 of the first mating connector MC1 and / or the number of the plurality of second terminals 20 of the second mating connector MC2 may differ from the number of the plurality of terminals 200 of the connector FC. Alternatively, the number of at least one first terminal 20 of the first mating connector MC1 and / or the number of at least one second terminal 20 of the second mating connector MC2 may differ from the number of at least one terminal 200 of the connector FC.

[0426] At least one relay terminal 200 of the aforementioned connector FC can be omitted. In this case, the first connector portion FC1, the second connector portion FC2, and the support member can have the following configuration.

[0427] The first connector portion FC1 further includes at least one first terminal (not shown) made of conductive material. The at least one first terminal includes a first retainable portion and a first contact portion. The first retainable portion of the at least one first terminal is held within the first body 100a of the first connector portion FC1. The first contact portion of the at least one first terminal extends from the first retainable portion of the at least one first terminal in the Y direction and protrudes or is exposed from the first body 100a, making it visible from the Y direction side. The at least one first terminal may also include a first pin portion. If the first connector portion FC1 can be mounted on a first circuit board, the first pin portion can be connected to the first circuit board. If the first connector portion FC1 can be connected to a first cable, the first pin portion can be connected to the first cable.

[0428] The second connector portion FC2 also includes at least one second terminal (not shown) made of conductive material. The at least one second terminal includes a second retainable portion and a second contact portion. The second retainable portion of the at least one second terminal is held within the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2. The second contact portion of the at least one second terminal extends from the second retainable portion of the at least one second terminal in the Y direction and protrudes or is exposed from the second body 100b, making it visible from the Y direction side. The at least one second terminal may also include a second pin portion. If the second connector portion FC2 can be mounted on a second circuit board, the second pin portion can be connected to the second circuit board. If the second connector portion FC2 can be connected to a second cable, the second pin portion can be connected to the second cable.

[0429] The aforementioned support member is located between the first connector portion FC1 and the second connector portion FC2, or alternatively, between the first circuit board on which the first connector portion FC1 is mounted and the second circuit board on which the second connector portion FC2 is mounted. The support member may be made of an elastic body, such as a leaf spring, other types of springs, or a rubber component. The support member supports the second connector portion FC2, allowing it to move relative to the first connector portion FC1 in a direction that includes at least a component in the Y-Y' direction.

[0430] The connection structure of the aforementioned connector can be modified in any way, as long as the connection structure includes a floating connector and a mating connector. The floating connector includes a connector portion releasably connected to the mating connector in the Y-Y' direction and includes a support member. The connector portion is capable of transitioning from a half-connected state to a fully connected state relative to the mating connector. Either the connector portion or the mating connector is a main connector, and the other is a secondary connector. The main connector includes a rotating rod rotatable between a first state and a second state, and the secondary connector includes an abutment portion. The support member supports the connector portion in a manner that allows it to move in a direction including at least a component in the Y-Y' direction. In the half-connected state, the rotating rod is capable of rotating from the first state to the second state, and is capable of pressing the abutment portion from one side of the secondary connector including the abutment portion in the Y-Y' direction. The pressing causes the connector portion to move relative to the mating connector in the Y direction and transition from the half-connected state to the fully connected state.

[0431] The aforementioned floating connector can be configured such that the floating connector includes a connector portion releasably connected to a mating connector in the Y-Y' direction, the connector portion being supported by a support member to be movable in at least a direction including at least the Y-Y' direction component, the connector portion being capable of transitioning from a semi-connected state to a fully connected state relative to the mating connector, the connector portion including a rotating rod rotatable between a first state and a second state, and in the semi-connected state, by rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state to press the abutment portion of the mating connector from the Y-direction side using the rotating rod, the connector portion moves relative to the mating connector in the Y-direction and transitions from the semi-connected state to the fully connected state.

[0432] The connector portion can be the second connector portion FC2 described above. The mating connector can be the second mating connector MC2 described above. The support member only needs to be made of an elastomer such as a leaf spring, other types of springs, or rubber components, and support the second connector portion FC2 described above so that it can move in a direction including at least a component in the Y-Y' direction. The rotating rod described above can be modified in any way, as long as the rotating rod can rotate from the first state to the second state in the semi-connected state to press the abutment portion 14 of the second mating connector MC2 toward the Y direction side or to press the abutment portion 14 of the second connector portion FC2 toward the Y' direction side, thereby causing the second connector portion FC2 to move relative to the second mating connector MC2 in the Y direction. For example, the rotating rod can be a rod or similar member that does not include the locking groove 613, which is provided on the second housing body 410 or the second body 100b of the second connector portion FC2 so that it can rotate between the first state and the second state in the manner described above; or the rotating rod can be a rod or similar member that is provided on the second body 10 of the second mating connector MC2 so that it can rotate between the first state and the second state in the manner described above. The abutment 14 is not limited to a protrusion, but can be any part configured to be pressed by the rotating rod. For example, the abutment 14 can be part of the second mating connector MC2 or part of the second connector FC2.

Claims

1. A connector connection structure, the connection structure comprising: Floating connector; as well as mating connectors, wherein, The floating connector includes: Connector portion, the connector portion being releasably connectable to the mating connector in a first direction; and A support member that supports the connector portion so that it can move in a direction including at least the first direction. The connector portion can transition from a partially connected state to a fully connected state relative to the mating connector. The partially connected state is when the connector portion is at least mechanically partially connected to the mating connector from one side of the first direction and can move relative to the mating connector to the other side of the first direction. The fully connected state is when the connector portion is mechanically and electrically fully connected to the mating connector from the same side of the first direction and cannot move relative to the mating connector to the other side of the first direction. Either the connector portion or the mating connector is a main connector, and the other is a secondary connector. The main connector includes a rotating rod rotatable between a first state and a second state, and the secondary connector includes an abutment portion. In the semi-connected state, by rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state to press the abutment portion from one side of the sub-connector including the abutment portion in the first direction using the rotating rod, the connector portion moves relative to the mating connector toward the other side in the first direction, and changes from the semi-connected state to the fully connected state.

2. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein, The connector portion includes the rotating rod. The rotating rod includes a rod body having a surface on one side in a second direction. This surface has a locking groove with an arc shape that is recessed towards the other side in the second direction. The second direction is orthogonal to the first direction and is the axial direction of the rotation axis of the rotating rod. The locking groove includes a first wall surface, a second wall surface, a third wall surface, an inner peripheral surface, an outer peripheral surface, an opening, a guide portion, an inner side portion, and an intermediate portion between the guide portion and the inner side portion. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the first wall surface is located on one side of the third direction, and the second wall surface is located on the other side of the third direction; or alternatively, when the rotating rod is in the first state, the first wall surface is located on the other side of the third direction, and the second wall surface is located on one side of the third direction, wherein the third direction is orthogonal to both the first and second directions. The second wall surface includes a facing area that faces the first wall surface and a non-facing area that is continuous with the facing area but does not face the first wall surface. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the third wall surface is located on the side of the first direction relative to the second wall surface. Each of the first wall surface, the second wall surface, and the third wall surface includes: The first end, when the rotating rod is in the first state, is located on the other side of the first direction; The second end, when the rotating rod is in the first state, is located on one side of the first direction. The inner circumferential surface is a curved surface extending from the second end of the second wall surface to the first end of the third wall surface, and the inner circumferential surface includes an open side region facing the second wall surface and an inner side region facing the third wall surface. The outer peripheral surface is a curved surface extending from the second end of the first wall surface to the second end of the third wall surface, and the outer peripheral surface includes an inner region facing the third wall surface, and the inner region of the outer peripheral surface faces the inner region of the inner peripheral surface. The opening is the space between the facing areas of the first wall and the second wall, and opens to the other side in the first direction when the rotating rod is in the first state. The guide portion is a space defined by the non-facing area of ​​the second wall and the opening-side area of ​​the inner peripheral surface, and extends from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the second wall. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the guide portion is located on one side of the opening in the first direction relative to the opening, and the guide portion includes a first space facing the opening and a second space facing the opening-side area of ​​the inner peripheral surface. The inner side portion is a space defined by the inner side region of the inner peripheral surface, the inner side region of the outer peripheral surface, and the third wall surface. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the first straight-line distance from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the second wall in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the abutment portion in the first direction. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the second straight-line distance from the first end of the third wall to the second end of the third wall in the first direction is less than the first straight-line distance, and the third straight-line distance from the inner circumferential surface to the outer circumferential surface in the normal direction of the inner circumferential surface gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the third wall. The mating connector includes the abutting portion, which is a protrusion projecting toward the other side in the second direction. When the rotating rod is in the first state, and the connector portion is connected to the mating connector from one side in the first direction in the fully connected state, the abutment portion is received from the opening into the second space of the inlet portion. By rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state while the abutment portion is received in the second space, the abutment portion moves relative to the inner portion or the middle portion in the locking groove from the second space. When the rotating rod is in the first state, and the connector portion is connected to the mating connector from one side in the first direction in the half-connected state, the abutment portion is at least partially received in the first space of the inlet portion from the opening. By rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state while the abutment portion is at least partially received in the first space, the abutment portion moves relative to the inner portion or the middle portion from the first space in the locking groove. At the same time, by pressing the abutment portion from the other side in the first direction with the outer peripheral surface of the locking groove, the connector portion moves relative to the mating connector to the other side in the first direction, so that the mating connector changes from the half-connected state to the fully connected state.

3. The connection structure according to claim 2, wherein, The central axis of the inner circumferential surface coincides with the rotation axis of the rotating rod, and When the rotating rod is in the first state, the central axis of the outer peripheral surface is offset by a fourth linear distance from the rotation axis to the other side of the first direction.

4. The connection structure according to claim 3, wherein, When the rotating rod is in the first state, the fifth straight-line distance from the second end of the second wall to the first end of the third wall in the first direction is twice the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface, and The sum of the difference between the radial dimension of the outer peripheral surface and the radial dimension of the inner peripheral surface and the fourth linear distance is greater than the sixth linear distance in the first direction from the end of the abutment portion of the mating connector on the other side of the first direction to the distal end face of the side of the mating connector on the first direction.

5. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein, The mating connector includes the rotating rod. The rotating rod includes a rod body having a surface on one side in a second direction. This surface has a locking groove with an arc shape that is recessed towards the other side in the second direction. The second direction is orthogonal to the first direction and is the axial direction of the rotation axis of the rotating rod. The locking groove includes a first wall surface, a second wall surface, a third wall surface, an inner peripheral surface, an outer peripheral surface, an opening, a guide portion, an inner side portion, and an intermediate portion between the guide portion and the inner side portion. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the first wall surface is located on one side of the third direction, and the second wall surface is located on the other side of the third direction; or alternatively, when the rotating rod is in the first state, the first wall surface is located on the other side of the third direction, and the second wall surface is located on one side of the third direction, wherein the third direction is orthogonal to both the first and second directions. The second wall surface includes a facing area that faces the first wall surface and a non-facing area that is continuous with the facing area but does not face the first wall surface. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the third wall surface is located on the other side of the first direction relative to the second wall surface. Each of the first wall surface, the second wall surface, and the third wall surface includes: The first end, when the rotating rod is in the first state, is located on one side in the first direction; and The second end, when the rotating rod is in the first state, is located on the other side of the first direction. The inner circumferential surface is a curved surface extending from the second end of the second wall surface to the first end of the third wall surface, and the inner circumferential surface includes an open side region facing the second wall surface and an inner side region facing the third wall surface. The outer peripheral surface is a curved surface extending from the second end of the first wall surface to the second end of the third wall surface, and the outer peripheral surface includes an inner region facing the third wall surface, and the inner region of the outer peripheral surface faces the inner region of the inner peripheral surface. The opening is the space between the facing areas of the first wall and the second wall, and it opens to one side in the first direction when the rotating rod is in the first state. The guide portion is a space defined by the non-facing area of ​​the second wall and the opening-side area of ​​the inner peripheral surface, and extends from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the second wall. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the guide portion is located on the other side of the first direction relative to the opening, and the guide portion includes a first space facing the opening and a second space facing the opening-side area of ​​the inner peripheral surface. The inner side portion is a space defined by the inner side region of the inner peripheral surface, the inner side region of the outer peripheral surface, and the third wall surface. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the first straight-line distance from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the second wall in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the abutment portion in the first direction. When the rotating rod is in the first state, the second straight-line distance from the first end of the third wall to the second end of the third wall in the first direction is less than the first straight-line distance, and the third straight-line distance from the inner circumferential surface to the outer circumferential surface in the normal direction of the inner circumferential surface gradually decreases from the second end of the first wall to the second end of the third wall. The connector portion includes the abutting portion, which is a protrusion projecting toward the other side in the second direction. When the rotating rod is in the first state, and the connector portion is connected to the mating connector from one side in the first direction in the fully connected state, the abutment portion is received from the opening into the second space of the inlet portion. By rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state while the abutment portion is received in the second space, the abutment portion moves relative to the inner portion or the middle portion in the locking groove from the second space. When the rotating rod is in the first state, and the connector portion is connected to the mating connector from one side in the first direction in the half-connected state, the abutment portion is at least partially received in the first space of the inlet portion from the opening. By rotating the rotating rod from the first state to the second state while the abutment portion is at least partially received in the first space, the abutment portion moves relative to the inner portion or the middle portion from the first space in the locking groove. At the same time, by pressing the abutment portion from the other side in the first direction with the outer peripheral surface of the locking groove, the connector portion moves relative to the mating connector to the other side in the first direction, so that the mating connector changes from the half-connected state to the fully connected state.

6. The connection structure according to claim 5, wherein, The central axis of the inner circumferential surface coincides with the rotation axis of the rotating rod, and When the rotating rod is in the first state, the central axis of the outer peripheral surface is offset by a fourth linear distance from the rotation axis to the side in the first direction.

7. The connection structure according to claim 6, wherein, When the rotating rod is in the first state, the fifth straight-line distance from the second end of the second wall to the first end of the third wall in the first direction is twice the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface, and The sum of the difference between the radial dimension of the outer peripheral surface and the radial dimension of the inner peripheral surface and the fourth straight-line distance is greater than the seventh straight-line distance in the first direction from the end of one side of the abutment portion of the connector portion to the distal end face of the other side of the connector portion in the first direction.

8. The connection structure according to claim 2 or 5, wherein, The connector portion includes: The main body is made of insulating material; A retainable portion of at least one terminal, wherein the retainable portion of the at least one terminal is held within the body; and The contact portion of the at least one terminal extends from the retainable portion of the at least one terminal toward the other side in the first direction, and at least partially protrudes or is exposed from the body such that it is visible from the other side in the first direction. The mating connector includes: A main body made of insulating material; and At least one terminal, wherein the at least one terminal of the mating connector is made of a conductive material and includes: A retainable portion, wherein the retainable portion is retained within the body of the mating connector; The contact portion, wherein the contact portion of the at least one terminal of the mating connector extends from the retainable portion of the at least one terminal of the mating connector toward the side in the first direction, and at least partially protrudes or is exposed from the body of the mating connector such that it is visible from the side in the first direction; and The pin portion is disposed relative to the body of the mating connector on one side in the first direction, one side in the second direction, or the other side in the second direction. In the semi-connected state, the contact portion of at least one terminal of the connector portion contacts the contact portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector, and in the semi-connected state, when the abutment portion is pressed by the outer peripheral surface of the locking groove, the pressing causes the connector portion to move relative to the mating connector towards the other side in the first direction, and causes the contact portion of at least one terminal of the connector portion to slide on the contact portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector. Alternatively, in the semi-connected state, the contact portion of at least one terminal of the connector portion does not contact the contact portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector, and in the semi-connected state, when the abutment portion is pressed by the outer peripheral surface of the locking groove, the pressing causes the connector portion to move relative to the mating connector toward the other side in the first direction, and causes the contact portion of at least one terminal of the connector portion to contact the contact portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector.

9. The connection structure according to claim 8, wherein, The connector section also includes: A housing, the housing being conductive, and comprising a housing body that is annular or U-shaped in cross-sectional view along the second direction and the third direction, the housing body extending in the first direction and at least partially accommodating the connector portion; and A housing, the housing being constructed of an insulating material to retain the outer shell, and comprising a housing body that is annular or U-shaped in cross-sectional view along the second and third directions, the housing body extending in the first direction and accommodating the connector portion of the outer shell body, and The rotating rod is rotatably mounted on the housing, and the abutting portion is mounted on the body of the mating connector; alternatively, the rotating rod is rotatably mounted on the body of the mating connector, and the abutting portion is mounted on the housing.

10. The connection structure according to claim 1, wherein, The main connector also includes a first stop and a second stop. The rotating rod includes a rod body, the rod body including a disc and a handle extending from the disc. When the connector includes the rotating rod, the first stop, and the second stop, in the first state, the first stop is located on the other side of the first direction relative to the handle of the rotating rod and abuts against the handle from the other side of the first direction; and in the second state, the second stop is located on the other side of the first direction relative to the handle of the rotating rod and abuts against the handle from the other side of the first direction. In the case where the mating connector includes the rotating rod, the first stop, and the second stop, the first stop, in the first state, is located on one side of the handle of the rotating rod in the first direction and abuts against the handle from the side of the first direction, and the second stop, in the second state, is located on one side of the handle of the rotating rod in the first direction and abuts against the handle from the side of the first direction.

11. The connection structure according to claim 8, further comprising: First mating connector; First circuit board; as well as A second circuit board is disposed at a distance from the first circuit board and is located on the other side of the second direction relative to the first circuit board. The floating connector also includes a first connector portion. The at least one terminal of the floating connector is at least one relay terminal. The first connector portion includes: The first body is made of insulating material; The first retainable portion of the at least one relay terminal is held within the first body; and The first contact portion of the at least one relay terminal extends from the first retainable portion of the at least one relay terminal toward the other side in the first direction, and at least partially protrudes or is exposed from the first body such that it is visible from the other side in the first direction. The connector portion of the floating connector is a second connector portion. The main body of the connector portion of the floating connector is the second main body of the second connector portion, and the second main body is disposed at a distance from the first main body and is located on the other side of the second direction relative to the first main body. The retainable portion of the at least one terminal of the connector portion of the floating connector is a second retainable portion of the at least one relay terminal of the second connector portion. The contact portion of at least one terminal of the connector portion of the floating connector is the second contact portion of at least one relay terminal of the second connector portion. The support member includes an elastically deformable portion of the at least one relay terminal, and the elastically deformable portion is disposed between the first retainable portion and the second retainable portion. The elastically deformable portion of the at least one relay terminal is capable of elastically deforming in a direction including at least the first direction component, and the elastic deformation of the elastically deformable portion causes the second connector portion to shift relative to the first connector portion in a direction including at least the first direction component. The first mating connector includes: The first main body is made of insulating material; At least one first terminal, said at least one first terminal being made of a conductive material and comprising: The first retainable portion of at least one terminal of the first mating connector is retained in the first body of the first mating connector; The first contact portion, wherein the first contact portion of at least one terminal of the first mating connector extends from the first retainable portion of the at least one first terminal toward one side in the first direction, and at least partially protrudes or is exposed from the first body of the first mating connector such that it is visible from one side in the first direction; and A first pin portion, wherein the first pin portion is disposed on one side of the first direction, one side of the second direction, or the other side of the second direction relative to the first body of the first mating connector, and is connected to the first circuit board. With the first mating connector connected to the first connector portion of the floating connector from the other side of the first direction, the first contact portion of the at least one relay terminal of the floating connector contacts the first contact portion of the at least one first terminal of the first mating connector, wherein the mating connector is a second mating connector. The body of the mating connector is the second body of the second mating connector. The at least one terminal of the mating connector is at least one second terminal of the second mating connector. The retainable portion of the at least one terminal of the mating connector is a second retainable portion of the at least one second terminal of the second mating connector. The contact portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector is the second contact portion of at least one second terminal of the second mating connector, and The pin portion of at least one terminal of the mating connector is the second pin portion of at least one second terminal of the second mating connector, and is connected to the second circuit board.

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