Connector assembly easy to lock

Abstract

The invention provides an easy-to-lock connector assembly. The easy-to-lock connector assembly comprises a first connector and a second connector, the first connector comprises a first insulating shell and a first metal shell, the first insulating shell is provided with an accommodating space, and the second connector can be inserted into the accommodating space along a first direction. The second connector comprises a second insulating shell, a second metal shell and an operating component. The second insulating housing is formed with a locking arm that is movable in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction between a locking position and an unlocking position and constantly biased to the locking position. The operating member is movably held by the second insulative housing and is configured to urge the lock arm biasing the lock arm away from the locked position. Therefore, the easy-to-lock connector assembly with good operability and high reliability is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to easy-lock connector assemblies, and more particularly to low-profile easy-lock connector assemblies with good operability. Background Technology

[0002] Taiwan Utility Model Patent Publication No. M644042U (Patent Document 1) discloses a flexible flat cable connector. The connector in Patent Document 1 has an operating member pivotally mounted on an insulating housing. The flexible flat cable is unlocked by pressing the body of the operating member to pivot it. However, this operating member has a certain thickness, making this connector unsuitable for achieving a low-profile connector.

[0003] Taiwan Utility Model Patent Publication No. M591717U (Patent Document 2) discloses a connector for flexible flat cables. Patent Document 2 discloses a connector housing mounted as a male connector at the insertion end of the flexible flat cable. This allows for changing the mating direction of the flexible flat cable with the easy-lock connector, enabling easy and automated insertion of the flexible flat cable into the easy-lock connector. Furthermore, it improves the operability and protection of the flexible flat cable. However, the easy-lock connector disclosed in Patent Document 2 requires simultaneous operation of two separate locking members to release the flexible flat cable, resulting in poor unlocking operability. Because the operating parts of the locking members are located on the same side as the flexible flat cable body, the unlocking operation may also be interfered with by the flexible flat cable body. In addition, the locking members extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the flexible flat cable, increasing the connector's size in the longitudinal direction of the flexible flat cable, and also increasing the area occupied by the board-mounted socket connector. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide an easy-lock connector assembly that has good operability and high reliability.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide an easy-lock connector assembly having a low profile, suitable for use in small or thin electronic devices with limited space.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide an easy-lock connector assembly that facilitates automated assembly.

[0007] According to the present invention, an easy-lock connector assembly is provided, comprising a first connector and a second connector;

[0008] The first connector includes:

[0009] A first insulating housing having a receiving space, into which the second connector is inserted along a first direction, such that at least a portion of the second connector is received; a plurality of contacts held by the first insulating housing, the plurality of contacts being arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each contact having a contact portion extending into the receiving space and a connection terminal portion opposite to the contact portion; and

[0010] A first metal casing covers a portion of the first insulating casing, and the first metal casing has two first joints facing each other in the second direction;

[0011] The second connector includes:

[0012] Second insulating shell;

[0013] A second metal housing covers a portion of the second insulating housing. Two locking arms are formed on each side of the second metal housing in the second direction. Each locking arm extends toward the first direction and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction, and is constantly biased to the locked position. Each locking arm has a second engagement portion such that when the second connector is engaged with the first connector, the second engagement portion engages with its respective first engagement portion, preventing the second connector from detaching from the first connector.

[0014] Two operating members are held by the second insulating housing in a manner that allows them to move in the second direction. Each operating member is configured to push its respective locking arm in the second direction. By operating the two operating members, the two locking arms are biased in the second direction and removed from the locked position, allowing the second connector to be removed from the first connector.

[0015] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the second insulating housing has two guide posts extending in the first direction formed on its bottom surface for guiding the second connector into the receiving space during the engagement of the second connector with the first connector.

[0016] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, each guide post has a chamfered end.

[0017] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the first insulating housing is formed with two guide post holes for the insertion of the two guide posts respectively.

[0018] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, each guide post partially surrounds its respective locking arm.

[0019] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the locking arm is configured in a U-shape.

[0020] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the locking arm is configured in an L-shape.

[0021] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the second metal housing is composed of an upper housing and a lower housing. The upper housing is disposed on the upper side of the second insulating housing, and the lower housing is disposed on the lower side of the second insulating housing. The second connector further includes a flat connecting object, which includes a head and a plurality of electrode portions formed on the head. The head of the flat connecting object is received in a space defined by the second insulating housing and the lower housing. The plurality of electrode portions protrude from the lower housing, such that when the second connector is engaged with the first connector, the plurality of electrode portions will respectively make electrical contact with the plurality of contacts of the first connector.

[0022] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the two operating members are respectively disposed at two ends of the second insulating housing in the second direction, each operating member including a body portion and a guide rail portion extending from the body portion in the second direction, and the second insulating housing having a guide groove portion for insertion into the guide rail portion at each of the two ends.

[0023] According to the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the guide rail portion has a protrusion configured to prevent the guide rail portion from disengaging from the guide groove portion.

[0024] According to the present invention, the easy-lock connector assembly can save the size of the easy-lock connector assembly in the third direction (front-back direction) by providing an operating member that actuates in the second direction (width direction).

[0025] Furthermore, because the locking mechanism is not located on the first connector, which is a board-mounted connector, the difficulty of maintenance is greatly reduced.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will best understand the technical features and other objects and advantages of this invention after referring to the specification and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the engaged state according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly in an unfitted state according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the first insulating housing of the socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the contact element of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first metal housing of the socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 9 This is another perspective view of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the second insulating housing of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the upper housing of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 13 This is a front view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second insulating housing is not shown.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 16 It is along Figure 14 The cross section taken by line AA in the middle.

[0043] Figure 17 It is along Figure 15 The cross section taken from line BB in the middle.

[0044] Figure 18 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the unlocked state according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 The cross section taken by line CC in the middle.

[0046] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly in an unengaged state according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the second insulating housing of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the upper housing of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 25 This is a front view of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second insulating housing is not shown.

[0052] Figure 26 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 27 This is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 28 It is along Figure 26 The cross section taken by line DD in the middle.

[0055] Figure 29 It is along Figure 27 The cross section taken by line EE in the middle.

[0056] Figure 30 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the unlocked state according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 31 It is along Figure 30 The cross section taken by line FF in the middle.

[0058] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0059] 1: Easy-lock connector assembly

[0060] 10: Socket Connector

[0061] 11: First insulating shell

[0062] 110: Flat rectangular body

[0063] 1101: Contact groove

[0064] 1102: Guide post hole

[0065] 1103: concave part

[0066] 1104: Notch

[0067] 111: Anterior wall

[0068] 1110: Notch

[0069] 112: Rear wall

[0070] 1121: Contact retaining hole

[0071] 1122: Protrusion

[0072] 12: First metal casing

[0073] 120: Connecting part

[0074] 1201: Joint

[0075] 1202: Maintenance Department

[0076] 1203: Alignment Hole

[0077] 121: Side shell

[0078] 1211: First Welding Section

[0079] 1212: Second Welding Section

[0080] 1213: Stop section

[0081] 1214: Maintaining Section

[0082] 1215: Notch

[0083] 13: Contacts

[0084] 131: Connecting Terminal

[0085] 132: Maintaining Section

[0086] 133: Contact Arm

[0087] 134:Contact Department

[0088] 20: Plug Connector

[0089] 21: Second insulating shell

[0090] 210: Ontology Department

[0091] 2101: Positioning hole

[0092] 2102: convex platform

[0093] 211: Side

[0094] 2110: Reception Hole

[0095] 2111: Guide Post

[0096] 22: Upper outer shell

[0097] 220: Ontology Department

[0098] 2201: Alignment Hole

[0099] 2202: Positioning Piece

[0100] 221: Locking Arm

[0101] 2211: Braking section

[0102] 222: Joint

[0103] 223: Locking Arm

[0104] 2231: Braking section

[0105] 23: Lower outer shell

[0106] 230: Ontology Department

[0107] 2301: Notch

[0108] 2302: First limiting part

[0109] 2303: Second limiting part

[0110] 2304: convex platform

[0111] 232: Protrusion

[0112] 24: Operating components

[0113] 240: Ontology Department

[0114] 241: Guide rail section

[0115] 2411: Protrusion

[0116] 242: Pushing section

[0117] 25: Flat Connection Objects

[0118] 250: Extension

[0119] 2510: Notch

[0120] 251: Head

[0121] D1: First Direction

[0122] D2: Second Direction

[0123] D3: Third direction

[0124] SP: Containment Space. Detailed Implementation

[0125] The easy-lock connector assembly according to embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same elements or elements having the same function are labeled with the same reference numerals. The drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0126] [First Embodiment]

[0127] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This describes the easy-lock connector assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention, wherein... Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the engaged state according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly in its unengaged state according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The entire easy-lock connector assembly is indicated by reference numeral 1. The easy-lock connector assembly 1 includes a socket connector 10 as a first connector and a plug connector 20 as a second connector. The plug connector 20 is capable of engaging with the socket connector 10 in a first direction D1.

[0128] In this embodiment, the socket connector 10 is a board-mount connector, and the plug connector 20 is formed by mounting a connector housing (i.e., a second insulating housing) and a connector outer shell (i.e., a second metal shell) to the head of a flat connection object such as a flexible flat cable (FFC) or a flexible printed circuit (FPC). In the specification, the assembly consisting of the connector housing (i.e., the second insulating housing), the connector outer shell (i.e., the second metal shell), and the flat connection object is referred to as a "second connector" or a "plug connector".

[0129] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first embodiment of the socket connector 10 of the present invention is described, wherein, Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The socket connector 10 includes a first insulating housing 11, a first metal housing 12, and a plurality of contacts 13.

[0130] The plug connector 20 is capable of being inserted into the socket connector 10 along a first direction D1 (i.e., the height direction or the mating direction). The flat connection object forming part of the plug connector 20 may be a flexible flat cable (FFC) or a flexible printed circuit (FPC), but is not limited thereto. The flat connection object may also be a card. The flat connection object includes multiple electrode portions formed on the head of the flat connection object. The plug connector 20 may also be a wire-end connector in a wire-to-board connector assembly.

[0131] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the first insulating shell 11. (Refer to...) Figure 5 The structure of the first insulating housing 11 is described below. The first insulating housing 11 is made of insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The first insulating housing 11 has a flat rectangular body 110 and peripheral walls formed on the edges of the flat rectangular body 110. The flat rectangular body 110 and the peripheral walls define a receiving space SP. The peripheral walls are formed by a front wall portion 111 and a rear wall portion 112 opposite to the front wall portion 111.

[0132] The flat rectangular body 110 has a plurality of contact grooves 1101. The contact grooves 1101 are arranged along a second direction D2 (i.e., the width direction) and spaced apart from each other. The flat rectangular body 110 has two guide holes 1102 spaced apart in the second direction D2. The upper edge of each guide hole 1102 is chamfered. A recess 1103 is formed on the upper edge of an inner surface of each guide hole 1102.

[0133] The front wall portion 111 has a notch 1110. By forming the notch 1110, interference between the front wall portion 111 and the body of the flat connected object (e.g., the cable portion) can be avoided.

[0134] The rear wall portion 112 has a plurality of contact retaining holes 1121. Each contact retaining hole 1121 communicates with its respective contact groove 1101. In order to fix the first metal housing 12 to the first insulating housing 11, the rear wall portion 112 is further formed with two protrusions 1122.

[0135] Figure 6This is a perspective view of multiple contacts 13. The contacts 13 are arranged in a row along the second direction D2 and held by a first insulating housing 11. Each contact 13 is made of copper or a copper alloy. Each contact 13 has a connecting terminal 131, a holding portion 132, a contact arm 133, and a contact portion 134. The contact arm 133 extends from one end of the holding portion 132, and the connecting terminal 131 extends from the other end of the holding portion 132. The holding portion 132 has a barbed structure. The holding portion 132 is inserted into the contact holding hole 1121 in an interference fit. The contact portion 134 is formed at the distal end of the contact arm 133. Each contact arm 133 extends approximately in the third direction D3 (front-back direction) into the receiving space SP within its respective contact groove 1101, allowing the contact portion 134 to contact the electrode portion formed on the flat object. The third direction D3 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The connecting terminal 131 extends from the first insulating housing 11. The connection terminal 131 can be soldered to the pads formed on the circuit board using surface mount technology (SMT).

[0136] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first metal casing 12. The first metal casing 12 is formed by stamping and bending a metal sheet (e.g., a sheet made of stainless steel or phosphor bronze). The first metal casing 12 is configured to be approximately U-shaped when viewed from a first direction D1. The first metal casing 12 has two side casing portions 121 and a connecting portion 120 connecting the two side casing portions 121.

[0137] The lower edge of the side housing portion 121 has a first solder portion 1211 near the front end and a second solder portion 1212 near the rear end. The first solder portion 1211 and the second solder portion 1212 can be soldered to the pads formed on the circuit board using surface mount technology (SMT). In this way, the socket connector 10 can be securely mounted on the circuit board. The upper edge of the side housing portion 121 has a stop portion 1213 serving as a first engagement portion at approximately the middle. A retaining portion 1214 is formed at the distal end of the side housing portion 121. The retaining portion 1214 has a barbed structure and is inserted into a retaining hole formed in the first insulating housing 11 in an interference fit manner. In this way, the distal end of the side housing portion 121 is fixed to the first insulating housing 11.

[0138] A joining portion 1201 is formed at the rear edge of the connecting portion 120 for engaging with a protrusion 1122 formed on the rear wall portion 112 of the first insulating housing 11. A retaining portion 1202 is formed at the inner edge of the connecting portion 120. The retaining portion 1202 has a barbed structure and is inserted into a retaining hole formed in the first insulating housing 11 in an interference fit manner. In this way, the connecting portion 120 is fixed to the first insulating housing 11. By engaging the joining portion 1201 with the protrusion 1122, the first metal outer shell 12 can be further prevented from detaching from the first insulating housing 11.

[0139] The connecting portion 120 is provided with an alignment hole 1203. When the robot arm picks up the plug connector 20 and aligns the plug connector 20 with the receiving space SP of the socket connector 10, the alignment hole 1203 functions as an alignment mark that can be recognized by the machine vision system.

[0140] Reference Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The plug connector 20 of the first embodiment of the present invention is described, wherein, Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 This is another perspective view of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of a plug connector 20 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The plug connector 20 includes a second insulating housing 21, a second metal housing, two operating members 24, and a flat connecting object 25. The second metal housing is composed of an upper housing 22 and a lower housing 23.

[0141] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 Description of the second insulating housing 21, wherein Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the second insulating housing 21. The second insulating housing 21 is made of insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The second insulating housing 21 includes a flat rectangular body portion 210 and side portions 211 located on both sides of the body portion 210 in the second direction D2. Four positioning holes 2101 are formed on the upper surface of the body portion 210 for positioning the upper outer shell 22. Two bosses 2102 are formed on the lower surface of the body portion 210 for engaging with the recesses 2510 of the flat connecting object 25 (described below). Each side portion 211 has a receiving hole 2110 for a locking arm. Figure 11 As shown, each side portion 211 has a guide post 2111 extending downward from its lower surface in a first direction. The guide post 2111 is configured to guide the insertion of the plug connector 20 and position the plug connector 20.

[0142] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 12 Explanation of the upper outer shell 22 and the lower outer shell 23, Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the upper outer shell 22. Details of the upper outer shell 22 are shown in... Figure 10 and Figure 12 Details of the lower outer shell 23 are shown in Figure 10 The upper housing 22 and the lower housing 23 are formed by stamping and bending a metal sheet (e.g., a sheet made of stainless steel or phosphor bronze). The upper housing 22 is disposed on the upper side of the second insulating housing 21, while the lower housing 23 is disposed on the lower side of the second insulating housing 21.

[0143] The upper housing 22 has a body portion 220. The body portion 220 of the upper housing 22 has a flat surface for suction by a vacuum nozzle. The body portion 220 of the upper housing 22 has an alignment hole 2201. Similar to the alignment hole 1203, the alignment hole 2201 functions as an alignment mark recognizable by a machine vision system. Two locking arms 221 extending toward the first direction D1 are formed on the two side edges of the body portion 220 of the upper housing 22 in the second direction D2. When the upper housing 22 is assembled to the second insulating housing 21, the locking arms 221 are positioned in the receiving hole 2110 and partially surrounded by guide posts 2111, while a portion of the locking arms 221 is not surrounded by guide posts 2111. The guide posts 2111 function to protect the locking arms 221 and prevent them from being accidentally impacted. In the first embodiment, each locking arm 221 is configured in a U-shape. Each locking arm 221 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction D2 and is constantly biased to the locked position. Each locking arm 221 has a stop portion 2211 as a second engagement portion, such that when the plug connector 20 is engaged with the socket connector 10, the stop portion 2211 (second engagement portion) engages with the stop portion 1213 (first engagement portion) formed on the first metal housing, preventing the plug connector 20 from disengaging from the socket connector 10. Furthermore, each side edge of the body portion 220 of the upper housing 22 has two engagement portions 222. The lower surface of the upper housing 22 has four positioning pieces 2202 that respectively mate with positioning holes 2101. By inserting the positioning pieces 2202 into the positioning holes 2101, movement of the upper housing 22 relative to the second insulating housing 21 in a plane perpendicular to the first direction D1 can be prevented.

[0144] The lower outer casing 23 has a body portion 230. The body portion 230 has a notch 2301 through which a portion of the bottom surface of the flat connected object 25 can be exposed. Two first limiting portions 2302 and two second limiting portions 2303 are formed at the front and rear edges of the lower outer casing 23, respectively. Two protrusions 232 are formed on each side edge of the lower outer casing 23. The upper outer casing 22 and the lower outer casing 23 are fixed together by engaging the protrusions 232 with the connecting portions 222 to form a second metal casing.

[0145] The body portion 230 of the lower outer casing 23 is further formed with two bosses 2304, which serve as gap adjusters. The bosses 2304 prevent the flat connected object 25 from wobbling up and down relative to the second insulating casing 21 and the lower outer casing 23.

[0146] Reference Figure 10 Explain the flat connection object 25. For example... Figure 10As shown, the flat connector 25 includes a head 251 and an extension 250. Notches 2510 are formed on each side edge of the head 251. In this embodiment, the flat connector 25 is a flexible flat cable (FFC), and the extension 250 is the cable body. Another head may be formed at the other end of the cable body. A plurality of electrode portions arranged in a second direction D2 are formed on the bottom surface of the head 251 near the insertion end or leading edge. The head 251 of the flat connector 25 is housed in a space defined by the second insulating housing 21 and the lower housing 23. These electrode portions protrude from the notches 2301 of the lower housing 23, such that when the plug connector 20 and the socket connector 10 are engaged, these electrode portions will respectively make electrical contact with the contacts 13 of the socket connector 10.

[0147] The plug connector 20 also includes two operating members 24. The two operating members 24 are respectively held by two sides 211 of the second insulating housing 21 in a manner movable in the second direction D2. Each operating member 24 is configured to push its respective locking arm 221 inward in the second direction D2. By operating the operating member 24 (e.g., pressing the operating member 24 inward toward the plug connector in the second direction D2), the locking arm 221 can be biased away from the locked position in the second direction D2, causing the stop portion 2211 on the locking arm 221 to disengage from the stop portion 1213 of the first metal housing 12, allowing the plug connector 20 to be removed from the receptacle connector 10.

[0148] Each operating member 24 includes a body portion 240, two guide rail portions 241, and a pushing portion 242. The guide rail portions 241 and the pushing portion 242 extend inward from the body portion 240 in a second direction. The guide rail portions 241 are configured to guide the movement of the operating member 24 in the second direction D2. The pushing portion 242 is configured to push the locking arm 221 inward in the second direction D2.

[0149] In other embodiments or modifications, the guide rail portion may also function as a pushing portion, or the pushing portion may also function as a guide rail portion.

[0150] The first limiting portion 2302 and the second limiting portion 2303 formed on the body portion 230 of the lower housing 23 will abut against the leading edge and trailing edge of the head 251 of the flat connecting object 25, respectively, preventing the flat connecting object 25 from moving relative to the second insulating housing in the third direction D3. The boss 2102 will abut against the inner edge of the recess 2510 of the flat connecting object 25, preventing the flat connecting object 25 from moving relative to the second insulating housing in the second direction D2.

[0151] Figure 13 This is a front view of the plug connector 20 of the first embodiment. For convenience, in... Figure 13The second insulating housing is not shown in the image. Figure 13 As shown, the operating member 24 is configured to push the U-shaped locking arm 221 inward in the second direction D2 with its pushing part 242, so that the locking arm 221 is biased away from the locking position.

[0152] Figure 14 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 in the locked state according to the first embodiment. Figure 15 This is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the first embodiment in the locked state. Figure 16 It is along Figure 14 The cross section taken by line AA in the middle, Figure 17 It is along Figure 15 The cross-section taken from line BB in the middle. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the locking portion 2211, which is the second engagement portion, engages with the stop portion 1213, which is the first engagement portion, preventing the plug connector 20 from moving upward relative to the socket connector in the first direction D1. At this time, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in a locked state. Figure 17 As shown, the guide rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is inserted into the guide groove portion formed in the second insulating housing, so that the operating member 24 is held by the second insulating housing in a movable manner. The guide rail portion 241 has a protrusion 2411, which engages with a recess formed in the guide groove portion. This prevents the guide rail portion 241 from disengaging from the guide groove portion. In other words, it prevents the operating member 24 from falling off the second insulating housing. The operating member 24 is configured to move only within a certain range. Because the travel distance of the operating member 24 is limited, excessive pressure on the locking arm is avoided.

[0153] Figure 18 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 in the unlocked state according to the first embodiment. Figure 19 It is along Figure 18 The cross-section taken by line CC in the middle. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the locking arm 221 is pushed inward in the second direction by the pushing part 242 of the operating member 24, causing the locking arm 2211 to disengage from the stop part 1213. At this time, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in the unlocked state, allowing the plug connector 20 to be removed from the socket connector 10.

[0154] [Second Embodiment]

[0155] Reference Figure 20 This describes the easy-lock connector assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein... Figure 20This is a perspective view of the easy-lock connector assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an unfitted state. Components identical to those in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. The easy-lock connector assembly as a whole is indicated by reference numeral 1. The easy-lock connector assembly 1 includes a socket connector 10 as a first connector and a plug connector 20 as a second connector. The plug connector 20 is capable of engaging with the socket connector 10 in a first direction D1.

[0156] Reference Figure 21 The second embodiment of the socket connector 10 of the present invention is described, wherein, Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The socket connector 10 includes a first insulating housing 11, a first metal housing 12, and a plurality of contacts 13. The main difference between the socket connector of the second embodiment and the socket connector of the first embodiment is that each side of the first insulating housing 11 and each side of the first metal housing has two recesses 1104 and two recesses 1215 respectively formed thereon. The two recesses 1104 are located on both sides of the recess 1103, and the two recesses 1215 are located on both sides of the stop portion 1213, which serves as the first engagement portion. The guide portion 241 of the operating member 24 extends through the recesses 1104 and 1215 to contact the locking arm 223.

[0157] Reference Figure 22 The plug connector 20 of the second embodiment of the present invention is described, wherein, Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The plug connector 20 includes a second insulating housing 21, a second metal housing, two operating members 24, and a flat connecting object 25. The second metal housing is composed of an upper housing 22 and a lower housing 23. The plug connector of the second embodiment differs from the plug connector of the first embodiment mainly in the construction of the upper housing and the operating members. Since the lower housing and the flat connecting object of the second embodiment are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, their description is omitted.

[0158] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 23 Description of the second insulating housing 21, wherein Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the second insulating housing 21. The second insulating housing 21 is made of insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The second insulating housing 21 includes a flat rectangular body portion 210 and side portions 211 respectively located on both sides of the body portion 210 in the second direction D2. The second insulating housing of the second embodiment is not significantly different in appearance from the second insulating housing of the first embodiment.

[0159] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 24 Explanation of the upper outer shell 22, Figure 24This is a perspective view of the upper housing 22. The main body 220 of the upper housing 22 has two locking arms 223 extending toward the first direction D1 formed on its two side edges in the second direction D2. Each locking arm 223 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction D2 and is constantly biased to the locked position. Each locking arm 223 has a stop portion 2231 as a second engagement portion, such that when the plug connector 20 is engaged with the socket connector 10, the stop portion 2231 (second engagement portion) engages with the stop portion 1213 (first engagement portion) formed on the first metal housing, preventing the plug connector 20 from disengaging from the socket connector 10. The main difference between the upper housing of the second embodiment and the upper housing of the first embodiment lies in the construction of the locking arms. In the second embodiment, the locking arms 223 are L-shaped.

[0160] like Figure 22 As shown, each operating component 24 includes a body portion 240 and two guide rail portions 241. The difference between the operating component of the second embodiment and the operating component of the first embodiment is that the guide rail portion 241 of the operating component of the second embodiment can function as a pushing portion. In the second embodiment, the guide rail portion 241 extends to the locking arm 223, so that the locking arm 223 can be pushed by the guide rail portion 241.

[0161] Figure 25 This is a front view of the plug connector 20 of the second embodiment. For convenience, in... Figure 25 The second insulating housing is not shown in the image. Figure 25 As shown, the operating member 24 is configured to push the L-shaped locking arm 223 inward in the second direction D2 with its guide rail portion 241, so that the locking arm 223 is biased away from the locking position. In order to apply the pushing force to the end of the L-shaped locking arm 223, the guide rail portion 241 is formed adjacent to the lower edge of the body portion of the operating member 24.

[0162] Figure 26 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in the locked state. Figure 27 This is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in the locked state. Figure 28 It is along Figure 26 The cross-section taken by line DD in the middle, Figure 29 It is along Figure 27 The cross-section taken by line EE in the middle. For example... Figure 28 As shown, the locking portion 2231, which is the second engagement portion, engages with the stop portion 1213, which is the first engagement portion, preventing the plug connector 20 from moving upward relative to the socket connector in the first direction D1. At this time, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in a locked state. Figure 29As shown, the guide rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is inserted into the guide groove portion formed in the second insulating housing, so that the operating member 24 is held by the second insulating housing in a movable manner. The guide rail portion 241 is formed with a protrusion 2411, which engages with the recess formed in the guide groove portion. This prevents the guide rail portion 241 from disengaging from the guide groove portion. In the second embodiment, the guide rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is configured to push the L-shaped locking arm 223 inward in the second direction D2. The operating member 24 is configured to move only within a certain range to avoid excessive pressure on the locking arm.

[0163] Figure 30 This is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in the unlocked state. Figure 31 It is along Figure 30 The cross-section is taken from line FF in the diagram. For example... Figure 31 As shown, the L-shaped locking arm 223 is pushed inward by the guide rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 in the second direction D2, causing the locking portion 2231 of the L-shaped locking arm 223 to disengage from the stop portion 1213. At this time, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in the unlocked state, allowing the plug connector 20 to be removed from the socket connector 10.

[0164] The easy-lock connector according to the invention truly combines the advantages of low profile and good operability. Furthermore, the easy-lock connector according to the invention is particularly suitable for small or thin electronic devices with limited space. The easy-lock connector according to the invention is also suitable for automated assembly of flat connecting objects and the easy-lock connector.

[0165] While the present invention has been described and exemplified with reference to preferred embodiments, it should be understood that many variations and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but is subject to the wording of the claims, that is, any equivalent changes and modifications made without departing from the claims of the present invention should still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lock-easy connector assembly comprising a first connector and a second connector; the first connector comprising: a first insulating housing having a receiving space into which the second connector is insertable in a first direction such that at least a portion of the second connector is received in the receiving space, a plurality of contact pieces held by the first insulating housing, the plurality of contact pieces being arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each contact piece having a contact portion extending into the receiving space and a connection terminal portion opposite the contact portion, and a first metal shell covering a portion of the first insulating housing, the first metal shell being formed with two first engagement portions facing each other in the second direction; the second connector comprising: a second insulating housing, a second metal shell covering a portion of the second insulating housing, the second metal shell being formed with two locking arms on both sides thereof in the second direction, each locking arm extending toward the first direction, each locking arm being movable in the second direction between a locked position and an unlocked position and being constantly biased to the locked position, each locking arm being formed with a second engagement portion such that, when the second connector is fitted with the first connector, the second engagement portion engages with the respective first engagement portion to prevent the second connector from being detached from the first connector, and two operation members held by the second insulating housing in a manner movable in the second direction, each operation member being configured to be able to push the respective locking arm in the second direction, the two locking arms being biased away from the locked position in the second direction by operating the two operation members to allow the second connector to be removed from the first connector.

2. The lock-easy connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second insulating housing is formed with two guide posts extending in the first direction at a bottom surface thereof for guiding insertion of the second connector into the receiving space during fitting of the second connector with the first connector.

3. The lock-easy connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein an end portion of each guide post is formed with a chamfer.

4. The lock-easy connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first insulating housing is formed with two guide post holes into which the two guide posts are respectively inserted.

5. The lock-easy connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each guide post partially surrounds the respective locking arm.

6. The lock-easy connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking arm is configured in a U shape.

7. The lock-easy connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking arm is configured in an L shape.

8. The snap-lock connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second metal housing is composed of an upper housing disposed on an upper side of the second insulating housing and a lower housing disposed on a lower side of the second insulating housing, the second connector further comprising a flat connection object including a head portion and a plurality of electrode portions formed on the head portion, the head portion of the flat connection object being accommodated in a space defined by the second insulating housing and the lower housing, the plurality of electrode portions being exposed from the lower housing such that the plurality of electrode portions respectively make electrical contact with the plurality of contact pieces of the first connector when the second connector is fitted with the first connector.

9. The snap-lock connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the two operation members are respectively disposed at both ends of the second insulating housing in the second direction, each operation member including a body portion and a guide rail portion extending from the body portion in the second direction, the second insulating housing being formed with a guide groove portion at each of the both ends for insertion of the guide rail portion.

10. The snap-lock connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein the guide rail portion has a protrusion portion configured to prevent the guide rail portion from being disengaged from the guide groove portion.

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