Cable harness, housing, and housing assembly

Abstract

The housing has a first side portion housing portion, a second side portion housing portion, a first end portion housing portion, and a housing cover portion. Before the second protruding portion abuts against the second engaging portion, the flexible wiring board is inserted from the opening portion until the first side portion side of the first end portion abuts against the first end portion accommodating portion while the first protruding portion abuts against the first engaging portion, and then the flexible wiring board is inserted so that the second side portion side of the first end portion abuts against the first end portion accommodating portion. In this case, the first lock arm portion is formed by being connected to the housing cover portion so as to be displaced from a first position at which the second protrusion portion is restricted from moving toward the first end housing portion side by abutting against the second protrusion portion, to a second position at which the second protrusion portion can move toward the first end housing portion side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the construction of cable harnesses. Background Technology

[0002] As a prior art for connectors, there are techniques that can easily confirm that the flexible circuit board (FPC) is fully inserted into the housing (for example, see Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-90088)). Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an FPC connector (first connector 10) in the prior art. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an Independent Locking Component (ISL) in the prior art. Figure 2 Figure A is a diagram viewed from a diagonal rear view. Figure 2 Figure B is the view taken from the oblique front. Figure 3 This is a main section view showing the state of the Independent Locking Component (ISL) in the prior art, where the FPC is inserted into the first connector in a temporary holding state. Figure 3 A is a three-dimensional view that includes the specified sectional view. Figure 3 B is the sectional view.

[0003] The prior art first connector 10 includes a first housing 11 into which an FPC 90 can be inserted and an ISL 30 into which the first housing 11 can be mounted. The ISL 30 includes an FPC retaining post 34 for preventing the removal of the FPC 90 and a locking spring portion 33 for retaining the FPC 90 in the first housing 11. The FPC 90 includes cutouts 95a (not shown) formed at both ends in the width direction for the insertion of the FPC retaining post 34. The locking spring portion 33 includes an engaging beam portion 33a that engages with the first housing 11 to retain the ISL 30 in a temporary holding position and a permanent holding position. The FPC retaining post 34 includes: an upper surface 35 that allows the FPC 90 to pass through when the ISL 30 is in the temporary holding position; and an engaging portion 36 that engages with the cutouts 95a of the FPC 90 when the ISL 30 is in the permanent holding position (see Patent Document 1, paragraph

[0105] ). Summary of the Invention

[0004] When the ear 95 of the FPC90 advances further relative to the end insertion recess 13b over the upper surface 35 of the FPC retaining post 34, the front end 90f of the ear 95 abuts against the locking protrusion 14b. Moreover, if the locking opening 93 passes through the locking protrusion 14b, the locking protrusion 14b enters the locking opening 93 and locks the locking opening 93 (see Patent Document 1, paragraph

[0063] ).

[0005] However, since the locking opening 93 has a gap large enough to allow passage over the locking protrusion 14b, for example, when the end insertion recess 13b is facing vertically downward (-Z direction side), the locking protrusion 14b may disengage from the locking opening 93, or may fail to lock properly. That is, the temporary holding position shown for the first connector 10 in Patent Document 1 has the following problem: when the first connector 10 is configured in a specific posture, the locking protrusion 14b can lock the locking opening 93, but in other postures, the locking protrusion 14b fails to lock the locking opening 93, requiring greater restriction on the installation posture.

[0006] Furthermore, the aforementioned ISL30 has a main body 31 and protruding tabs 32 extending from both ends of the main body 31. A locking spring portion 33, extending upwards as a retaining portion, is formed on the protruding tab 32 (see Patent Document 1, paragraph

[0052] ). Therefore, when the ISL30 is in the properly held position, although the first connector 10 can lock the FPC90, the ISL30 is configured to cover the outside of the first connector 10, resulting in a larger overall size for the first connector 10 including the ISL30. This presents a disadvantage in connectors requiring a thin and compact design.

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned issues, the present disclosure aims to provide a cable bundle that does not require significant restrictions on the installation posture and can achieve the locking of the flexible patch panel and the connector by suppressing the enlargement of the connector.

[0008] To address the aforementioned issues, the cable bundle of this embodiment includes a flexible wiring board and a housing. The flexible wiring board includes: a first end portion having a first width; a second end portion located on the side opposite to the first end portion; a first side portion, which is a side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, having a first protrusion extending outward in the direction of the first width; and a second side portion, which is a side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, having a second protrusion extending outward in the direction of the first width. The housing includes: a first side receiving portion capable of receiving a first side portion including a first protrusion, having a first engaging portion protruding inward in a first width direction and fixed to the housing in a manner that does not shift relative to the housing; a second side receiving portion capable of receiving a second side portion including a second protrusion, having a second engaging portion protruding inward in a first width direction; a first end receiving portion connecting one end of the first side receiving portion to one end of the second side receiving portion in a manner that can receive a first end portion; and a receiving cover portion connecting at least a first portion of the first side receiving portion located in a direction farther from the first end receiving portion than the first engaging portion to a second portion of the second side receiving portion located in a direction farther from the first end receiving portion than the second engaging portion than the first end receiving portion, forming an opening into which the first end portion can be inserted. Before the second engaging portion comes into contact with the second protrusion, the flexible wiring board is inserted until the first side of the first end comes into contact with the first end receiving portion while the first protrusion comes into contact with the first engaging portion. Then, when the flexible wiring board is inserted in such a way that the second side of the first end comes into contact with the first end receiving portion, it is connected to the receiving cover portion in such a way that it is displaced from a first position where the movement of the second protrusion toward the first end receiving portion is restricted by the second protrusion coming into contact with the first protrusion to a second position where the second protrusion can move toward the first end receiving portion.

[0009] Invention Effects

[0010] According to this embodiment, the cable harness does not require significant restrictions on the installation posture and can suppress the enlargement of connectors to achieve locking between the flexible patch panel and the connectors. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an FPC connector (first connector 10) in the prior art.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an Independent Locking Component (ISL) in the prior art. Figure 2 Figure A is a diagram viewed from a diagonal rear view. Figure 2 Figure B is the view taken from the oblique front.

[0013] Figure 3This is a main section view showing the state in which the independent locking element (ISL) in the prior art is temporarily held in place by the first connector inserted with the FPC. Figure 3 A is a three-dimensional view that includes the specified sectional view. Figure 3 B is the sectional view.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the state in which the cable bundle of this embodiment is engaged with the counterpart connector, which is the object of engagement of the cable bundle. Figure 4 A is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52d. Figure 4 B is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52c.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the cable bundle 100 shown. Figure 5 A is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52d. Figure 5 B is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52c.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram representing cable bundle 100. Figure 6 A is the front view. Figure 6 B is the top view. Figure 6 C is the bottom view.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the cable bundle 100 as shown from above, before the cable bundle 100 is engaged with the other connector 7.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram representing the flexible wiring board 4. Figure 8 A is the front view. Figure 8 B is the bottom view. Figure 8 C is the right-side view.

[0019] Figure 9 It is Figure 8 Enlarged image. Figure 9 A is Figure 8 A magnified view of region Z. Figure 9 B is Figure 8 A magnified view of region Y.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a diagram representing housing 5. Figure 10 A is a perspective view taken from above the end frame 52d side. Figure 10 B is the top view. Figure 10 C is the bottom view.

[0021] Figure 11This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 53. Figure 11 A is a three-dimensional view viewed from the bottom side of the arm 53. Figure 11 B is the left side view of housing 5.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 53. Figure 12 A is a top view of the arm section 53. Figure 12 B is a bottom view of the arm section 53.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 54. Figure 13 A is a three-dimensional view of the arm 54 from the bottom side. Figure 13 B is the right-side view of housing 5.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 54. Figure 14 A is a top view of the arm section at side 54. Figure 14 B is a bottom view of the arm section on side 54.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a diagram representing holder 6. Figure 15 A is a three-dimensional view viewed from above on the outer surface side. Figure 15 B is a three-dimensional view viewed from above on the inner surface side.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the installation method of retainer 6. Figure 16 A is a perspective view of the housing 5 before the retainer 6 is installed, viewed from the bottom side. Figure 16 B is in the context of Figure 16 A diagram showing the state where the movement of the first locking arm 542 is released after the retainer 6 is installed, from the same perspective.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a bottom view of the retainer 6 installed in the housing 5. Figure 17 A is a diagram showing the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is released. Figure 17 Figure B is a diagram showing the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is restricted.

[0028] Figure 18 This is a right-side view of the cable bundle 100 in the state where the movement of the first locking arm 542 has been released.

[0029] Figure 19 Is Figure 18 The enlarged view is an AA-line sectional view that omits a portion of the original view.

[0030] Figure 20 Therefore with Figure 18The AA-line section view is represented by a similar method in Figure 19 A diagram showing the installation of the flexible wiring board 4 into the housing 5.

[0031] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A magnified view of region X. Figure 21 A represents the insertion point of the flexible wiring board 4. Figure 21 Figure B shows the completed insertion of the flexible wiring board 4.

[0032] Figure 22 This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the retainer 6. Figure 22 A is a diagram showing the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is released. Figure 22 Figure B is a diagram showing the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is restricted. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, structural parts with the same function will be labeled with the same symbols and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the state in which the cable bundle of this embodiment is engaged with the counterpart connector, which is the object of engagement of the cable bundle. Figure 4 A is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52d. Figure 4 B is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52c. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the cable bundle 100 shown. Figure 5 A is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52d. Figure 5 B is a perspective view taken from the top side of the end frame 52c. Figure 6 This is a diagram representing cable bundle 100. Figure 6 A is the front view. Figure 6 B is the top view. Figure 6 C is the bottom view. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the cable bundle 100 as shown from above, before the cable bundle 100 is engaged with the other connector 7.

[0035] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the cable bundle 100 in this embodiment is composed of a flexible wiring board 4, a housing 5, and a retainer 6.

[0036] The retainer 6 is mounted on the housing 5. In this embodiment, the housing 5 and the retainer 6 are collectively referred to as housing assembly 200. The flexible wiring board 4 is mounted on the housing assembly 200. After the flexible wiring board 4 is mounted on the housing assembly 200, as described later, the retainer 6 is moved (slid) from the third position P3 to the fourth position P4 (see reference). Figure 17 This restricts the movement of the first locking arm 542 outward in the width direction of the housing 5. Consequently, the engagement between the second protrusion 441 and the second engaging portion 542a becomes locked and cannot be disengaged. That is, the flexible wiring board 4 remains attached to the housing assembly 200, and the assembly of the cable bundle 100 is complete. Figure 5 ).

[0037] like Figure 4 As shown, the assembled cable bundle 100 is inserted via terminal 72 into the opening 71 of the counterpart connector 7 mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown). After insertion, the secondary locking mechanism 8 (not shown), described later, is inserted into the secondary locking hole 51f of the housing 5. Figure 4 , Figure 6 The cable bundle 100 is locked into the mating of the other connector 7. Multiple terminals 72 corresponding to the terminals (electrodes 48a, 48b) of the flexible wiring board 4 are pressed into the other connector 7. By inserting the cable bundle 100 into the other connector 7, an electrical connection is ensured between the terminals (electrodes 48a, 48b) of the flexible wiring board 4 and the multiple terminals 72 of the other connector 7 corresponding to them.

[0038] Hereinafter, the components constituting the cable bundle 100 as an embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0039] (Flexible wiring board 4)

[0040] Figure 8 This is a diagram representing the flexible wiring board 4. Figure 8 A is the front view. Figure 8 B is the bottom view. Figure 8 C is the right-side view. Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged image. Figure 9 A is Figure 8 A magnified view of region Z. Figure 9 B is Figure 8An enlarged view of region Y. The flexible wiring board 4 of this embodiment is, for example, a wiring board with a thin plate shape based on polyimide. The flexible wiring board 4 has a first end portion 41 with a first width W1 and a second end portion 42 located on the opposite side of the first end portion 41 with a second width W2. The flexible wiring board 4 has a first side portion 43, which is one side portion from the first end portion 41 to the second end portion 42, and has a first protrusion 431 protruding outward in the direction of the first width W1. The flexible wiring board 4 has a second side portion 44, which is the other side portion from the first end portion 41 to the second end portion 42, and has a second protrusion 441 protruding outward in the direction of the first width W1. The flexible wiring board 4, for example, has a degree or greater flexibility that allows the first end portion 41 to align with the second end portion 42. In this example, the flexible wiring board 4 has two layers: a first layer 46a and a second layer 46b. The first layer 46a and the second layer 46b are integrally formed by bonding their opposing surfaces together with a prescribed adhesive in region 401 on the side of the first end 41. However, the flexible wiring board 4 is not limited to this structure. For example, it may not be integral, but may be formed by simply overlapping two sheets. In addition, the flexible wiring board 4 may also have other structures, such as being composed of a single layer.

[0041] The first layer 46a has a width direction of the flexible wiring board 4 ( Figure 8 Multiple wires 47a are arranged in the second width (W2 direction) of the flexible wiring board 4, and an elongated electrode 48a for electrical connection with the counterpart connector 7 is provided on the region 401 side of each wire 47a. The wires 47a are covered from the outside by an insulating layer for insulation. However, the electrode 48a is exposed on the outside of the region 401. The second layer 46b has multiple wires 47b (not shown) arranged in the second width (W2 direction) of the flexible wiring board 4, and an elongated electrode 48b (not shown) for electrical connection with the counterpart connector 7 is provided on the region 401 side of each wire 47b. The wires 47b are covered from the outside by an insulating layer for insulation. However, the electrode 48b is exposed on the outside of the region 401. The multiple electrodes 48a and 48b are offset (displaced) from their opposing positions in the width direction (second width (W2 direction) of the flexible wiring board 4. With this configuration, the electrodes 48a and 48b, as multiple terminals, are... Figure 8 As shown in Figure B, when viewed from the first end 41 side, the surfaces covering the first layer 46a and the second layer 46b form an interlaced arrangement. However, this interlaced arrangement is not mandatory and can be other structures. For example, as in the case where the flexible wiring board 4 is composed of a single layer, the flexible wiring board 4 may not have an interlaced arrangement.

[0042] like Figure 8As shown, the flexible wiring board 4 has a first protrusion 431 and a second protrusion 441 that protrude outward in the width direction (first width W1 direction) of the first end 41. The first protrusion 431 is provided on the first end 41 side of the first side 43. The second protrusion 441 is provided on the first end 41 side of the second side 44. The second protrusion 441 is provided with an elongated rod-shaped misinsertion prevention part 45 extending upward along the second side 44. Figure 9 The mis-insertion prevention part 45 is configured to a predetermined length, such that even if the surface 4411 of the second protrusion 441 is engaged with the first engaging part 51c (see reference...). Figure 12 , Figure 19 The flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5 by abutting, and the front end of the misinsertion prevention part 45 cannot engage with the first engaging part 51c. Therefore, when the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5, the misinsertion prevention part 45 can prevent the flexible wiring board 4 from being inserted in the wrong direction.

[0043] like Figure 9 As shown, the first protrusion 431 has a surface 4311 for abutting against the upper surface 51ct of the first engaging portion 51c of the arm portion 53 of the housing 5 and a surface 4312 for abutting against the lower surface 51cb (see reference). Figure 12 , Figure 19 The second protrusion 441 has a surface 4411 for abutting against the upper surface 542at of the second engaging portion 542a of the first locking arm portion 542 of the arm portion 54 of the housing 5, and a surface 4412 for abutting against the lower surface 542ab (see reference). Figure 14 , Figure 19 In this example, surfaces 4311 and 4411 are configured to have an R shape, but are not limited to this. Surfaces 4311 and 4411 may also have a conical shape or other shapes, as long as they can perform the actions described later.

[0044] (Shell 5)

[0045] Figure 10 This is a diagram representing housing 5. Figure 10 A is a perspective view taken from above the end frame 52d side. Figure 10 B is the top view. Figure 10 C is the bottom view.

[0046] like Figure 10As shown, the housing 5 is a hollow, generally box-shaped housing for housing the flexible wiring board 4. The housing 5 is, for example, a molded part made of thermoplastic resin such as ABS. The main components of the housing 5 include: a housing portion 55 that houses the first end 41 side (region 401 side) of the flexible wiring board 4; a frame-like portion 52 that surrounds the upper side (+z direction side) of the housing portion 55; and arm portions 53 and 54 that cover both sides (both ends in the width direction) of the housing portion 55.

[0047] [Storage Section 55]

[0048] The receiving portion 55 has a generally box-shaped form formed by extending a generally concave cross-section in the width direction, and a hollow shape in which the region 401 of the flexible wiring board 4 can be inserted. The receiving portion 55 has covers 51a and 51b and a protruding portion 51e. The covers 51a and 51b are formed as generally rectangular thin plates, which are positioned opposite each other and erected on the surface of the flexible wiring board 4 in the width direction (first width W1 direction) in order to mainly cover the region 401. Cutouts 51Ka and 51Kb are provided at the center of the upper end side (+z direction side) of the covers 51a and 51b. The protruding portion 51e is configured to connect the covers 51a and 51b on the bottom surface side (-z direction side) of the covers 51a and 51b in order to cover the first end 41 of the flexible wiring board 4. With this structure, the receiving portion 55 forms an opening 51d at the upper front end of the covers 51a and 51b for receiving the insertion of the flexible wiring board 4. The opening 51d receives the flexible wiring board 4, which includes a first protrusion 431 and a second protrusion 441, inserted from the first end 41 side. When the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted from the opening 51d of the housing 5, the protrusion 51e restricts further insertion of the flexible wiring board 4, so that the flexible wiring board 4 does not pass through the housing 5.

[0049] To expose the electrodes 48a of the flexible wiring board 4, the cover 51a has electrode holes 51Pa, which correspond to the position of the flexible wiring board 4 when mounted on the housing 5 and have an elongated shape with the same number as and substantially the same shape as the electrodes 48a. Similarly, the cover 51b has electrode holes 51Pb for exposing the electrodes 48b of the flexible wiring board 4. The electrodes 48a and 48b are offset relative to each other in the width direction (first width W1 direction), so the electrode holes 51Pa and 51Pb are offset relative to each other in the width direction (W51 or W52 direction) of the housing 5. With this configuration, the electrode holes 51Pa and 51Pb are... Figure 10 As shown in C, when viewed from the side of the protrusion 51e, the cover 51a and cover 51b are arranged in an interlaced pattern.

[0050] In this example, the widths W52 of the covers 51a and 51b and the width W51 of the protrusion 51e are formed to be slightly shorter than the first width W1 of the flexible wiring board 4 including the first protrusion 431 and the second protrusion 441. The thickness D53 of the opening 51d (see...) Figure 12 ) is formed as a thickness of D1 (which is the thickness of the flexible wiring board 4) Figure 8 Slightly longer. The height H52 of covers 51a and 51b is ( Figure 11 ) is formed as a region 401 of the flexible wiring board 4 with a height H2 ( Figure 8 The height (length) allows region 401 of the flexible wiring board 4 to be reliably housed in the housing 5.

[0051] In this example, the covers 51a and 51b are provided with reinforcing portions 51Ha and 51Hb. The reinforcing portions 51Ha and 51Hb extend from the lower surface side (-z direction side) of the side frame portions 52a and 52b toward the lower side (-z direction side) of the protruding portion 51e, connecting to and extending from the covers 51a and 51b, thus reinforcing the covers 51a and 51b. In this example, the reinforcing portions 51Ha and 51Hb are formed as U-shaped box-shaped columns, each covering a predetermined number of electrode holes 51Pa and 51Pb at predetermined intervals. In this example, in... Figure 10 From the perspective of C, the reinforcing parts 51Ha are located at the positions of the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, and 22nd electrode holes 51Pa from the left in the cover 51a. The reinforcing parts 51Hb are located at the positions of the 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th electrode holes 51Pb from the left in the cover 51b. The number of reinforcing parts 51Ha and 51Hb can also be appropriately adjusted according to the shape and size of the housing 5.

[0052] The storage part 55 has a first engaging part 51c on the arm portion 53 side of the cover 51a, 51b, which connects the cover 51a to the cover 51b (see reference). Figure 12 , Figure 19 In this example, the first engaging portion 51c is fixed to the covers 51a and 51b in a manner that does not shift relative to the housing 5. That is, both ends (ends in the y-axis direction) of the first engaging portion 51c are fixed. The first engaging portion 51c is formed to protrude inward in the direction of the first width W1. In this example, the first engaging portion 51c is a column with a generally quadrilateral cross-section, connected to the covers 51a and 51b, and has an upper surface 51ct and a lower surface 51cb. When the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5, the upper surface 51ct abuts against the surface 4311. When the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5, the lower surface 51cb contacts the surface 4312 in such a manner that the first side 43 side of the first end 41 contacts the inner surface of the protruding portion 51e.

[0053] [Frame-shaped part 52]

[0054] The frame-shaped portion 52 has side frame portions 52a and 52b and end frame portions 52c and 52d.

[0055] The side frame portions 52a and 52b have an elongated rod-like shape with a width W53 defined for the housing 5. They are formed by connecting to the covers 51a and 51b opposite each other on the surface of the storage portion 55 in the width direction W51, so as to mainly cover the openings 51d of the covers 51a and 51b. In this example, the side frame portions 52a and 52b at both ends have a height H53 (refer to...) Figure 11 The side frames 52a and 52b are raised and connected to the end frame portions 52c and 52d. In this example, the side frame portions 52a and 52b will be located at least in a first position further away from the protruding portion 51e than the first engaging portion 51c (e.g., ...). Figure 6 M) and the second part located further away from the protruding part 51e than the second engaging part 542a (e.g. Figure 6 (N) link.

[0056] The side frame portions 52a and 52b have multiple slots 52Ma and 52Mb on their lower surface side (-z direction side) for weight reduction. In this example, as... Figure 10 As shown in C, multiple grooves 52Ma and 52Mb are formed between the reinforcing portions 51Ha and 51Hb.

[0057] End frame portions 52c and 52d have a specified thickness D52 of the housing 5 (see reference). Figure 11 The cable bundle 100 has a thin, plate-like shape and is connected to the side frame portions 52a and 52b. Thus, the side frame portions 52a and 52b and the end frame portions 52c and 52d have a transversely elongated quadrilateral frame shape, forming a frame portion 52. The lower surface side (-z direction side) of the end frame portions 52c and 52d abuts against the end of the housing of the counterpart connector 7, thereby restricting the insertion of the cable bundle 100 into the counterpart connector 7 and preventing it from being pushed in beyond its intended depth. This, for example, prevents damage to the cable bundle 100 and the terminals 72 within the counterpart connector 7.

[0058] [Arm 53, 54]

[0059] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 53. Figure 11 A is a three-dimensional view viewed from the bottom side of the arm 53. Figure 11 B is the left side view of housing 5. Figure 12 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 53. Figure 12 A is a top view of the arm section 53. Figure 12 B is a bottom view of the arm section 53. Figure 13 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 54. Figure 13 A is a three-dimensional view of the arm 54 from the bottom side. Figure 13 B is the right-side view of housing 5. Figure 14 This is a diagram used to illustrate arm 54. Figure 14 A is a top view of the arm section 54. Figure 14 B is a bottom view of the arm section on side 54.

[0060] Arms 53 and 54 extend from each end of the covers 51a and 51b in the width direction toward each end of the protrusion 51e in the width direction, i.e., the lower side (-z direction side). Arms 53 and 54 are erected to cover both sides of the area 401 of the flexible wiring board 4. Arm 53 is inserted from the first protrusion 431 at the end of the opening 51d in the width direction ( Figure 6 The arm 54 extends from the left side of the second protrusion 441 towards the insertion direction of the flexible wiring board 4. The arm 54 extends from the insertion side of the second protrusion 441 at the end of the opening 51d in the width direction. Figure 6 (The right side of A) extends toward the abutment 51e in the direction in which the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted. In this example, the extension length H52 of the arms 53 and 54 is slightly longer than the height H51 from the opening 51d to the outside of the abutment 51e, and has a length that completely covers both ends of the abutment 51e (see reference). Figure 19 Therefore, the arm portion 53 is configured in relation to the storage portion 55 to accommodate the first side portion 43 including the first protrusion 431. The arm portion 54 is configured in relation to the storage portion 55 to accommodate the second side portion 44 including the second protrusion 441.

[0061] The length W54 between the outer side of arm 53 and the outer side of arm 54 ( Figure 6 The width D51 of the arms 53 and 54 is slightly shorter than the opening width of the opening 71 of the other connector 7. Figure 11 It is formed to be slightly shorter than the length of the opening 71 of the other connector 7 in the thickness direction (width direction, y-axis direction). For example... Figure 11 , Figure 13 As shown, the front ends of the insertion sides (extension sides, -z direction sides) of the arms 53 and 54 are locally tapered to facilitate insertion into the other connector 7. They facilitate positioning in both the width and thickness directions when the cable bundle 100 is inserted into the opening 71 of the other connector 7, thus facilitating insertion into the other connector 7. The main arms 531a, 531b, 541a, and the main arm 61 (described later) guide the insertion of the cable bundle 100 into the other connector 7.

[0062] like Figure 11 , Figure 12As shown, arm 53 is a vertical wall consisting of a pair of main arms 531a and 531b and a secondary locking arm 532 extending parallel to them between the main arms 531a and 531b. The main arms 531a and 531b and the secondary locking arm 532 are connected at the protrusion 51e side of the main arms 531a and 531b. That is, the main arms 531a and 531b extend from the opening 51d toward the protrusion 51e side, i.e., the lower side (-z direction side), and are connected to the secondary locking arm 532 at the front end of this extension. The secondary locking arm 532 extends in the opposite direction to the main arms 531a and 531b, i.e., from the protrusion 51e side, which is the connecting side, toward the opening 51d. The secondary locking arm 532 has a secondary locking stop 532a at its front end, which extends about half the length of the height H52. A pair of legs 532b extend further upward from the left and right sides of the secondary locking stop portion 532a. A pressing portion 532c is provided on the extending side of the legs 532b. A secondary locking hole portion 51f is formed at the end of the frame portion 52c of the frame-shaped portion 52 for inserting the secondary locking mechanism 8 (not shown). The secondary locking mechanism 8 is a mechanism component different from the cable bundle 100 and the housing assembly 200, used to lock the mating of the counterpart connector 7 and the cable bundle 100. When the secondary locking mechanism 8 is inserted from above toward the secondary locking hole portion 51f, a portion of the secondary locking mechanism 8 overlaps in the extending direction of the arm portion 53. Therefore, the pressing portion 532c cannot be pressed toward the end frame portion 52d, and the mating of the cable bundle 100 and the counterpart connector 7 is locked.

[0063] like Figure 13 , Figure 14As shown, the arm 54 is a vertical wall composed of a main arm 541a, a secondary arm 541b, and a first locking arm 542 extending parallel to the main arm 541a and the secondary arm 541b. The main arm 541a, the secondary arm 541b, and the first locking arm 542 are connected on the opening 51d side. In other words, the main arm 541a, the secondary arm 541b, and the first locking arm 542 are integrally connected on the opening 51d side and extend in a direction away from the opening 51d (downward side, -z direction side). The first locking arm 542 extends from the second protrusion 441 at the end of the opening 51d in the width direction towards the direction of insertion of the flexible wiring board 4 (-z direction). The main arm 541a and the secondary arm 541b extend from the opening 51d. The main arm portion 541a and the secondary arm portion 541b are arranged side-by-side with the first locking arm portion 542 in a manner that clamps into it, and are connected to the abutment portion 51e. Furthermore, as described above, the main arm portions 531a and 531b are connected to the secondary locking arm portion 532 on the abutment portion 51e side of the main arm portions 531a and 531b. That is, one end of the arm portion 53 and one end of the arm portion 54 are respectively connected on the abutment portion 51e side. Therefore, the abutment portion 51e is configured to accommodate the first end portion 41 in relation to the arm portions 53 and 54 or the covers 51a and 51b.

[0064] like Figure 14 As shown, the end of the extension side of the first locking arm 542 is provided with a second engaging portion 542a protruding toward the inner side (inner side in the direction of the first width W1) of the storage portion 55, thus becoming a free end. If the position of the second engaging portion 542a before the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted is referred to as the first position P1, then when the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5, the second protrusion 441 of the second engaging portion 542a abuts against the second engaging portion 542a, and the second engaging portion 542a is displaced to the outer side of the housing 5 in the width direction at the second position P2.

[0065] In other words, in the following cases, the second engaging portion 542a is formed to be connected to the housing 5 in such a way that it is displaced from a first position P1, where the movement of the second protrusion 441 towards the abutment portion 51e is restricted by the abutment of the second protrusion 441, to a second position P2, where the second protrusion 441 can move towards the abutment portion 51e. That is, (1) before the second protrusion 441 abuts against the second engaging portion 542a, the flexible wiring plate 4 is inserted until the first side 43 of the first end 41 abuts against the abutment portion 51e, while the first protrusion 431 abuts against the first engaging portion 51c. (2) Then, the flexible wiring plate 4 is inserted such that the second side 44 of the first end 41 abuts against the abutment portion 51e. In this case, the second engaging portion 542a is formed to be connected to the housing 5 in such a way that it is displaced from the first position P1 to the second position P2.

[0066] When the flexible wiring board 4 is further inserted and the second side 44 of the first end 41 abuts against the protruding part 51e, the position of the second engaging part 542a is formed to connect with the housing 5 in a manner that returns to the first position P1. For example, in this example, the first locking arm 542 has a cantilever beam shape with the second engaging part 542a as the free end side and is connected to the housing 5. In this example, the cantilever beam shape extends in the direction from the opening 51d toward the protruding part 51e. However, the first locking arm 542 of this disclosure can also extend in other directions and connect to the housing 5 as long as it can form the housing 5 and the retainer 6 in a manner that allows the second engaging part 542a to move from the first position P1 to the second position P2 (described later).

[0067] The structure of the housing 5 has been described above as one embodiment of the present disclosure. In other words, the housing of the present disclosure may, for example, have at least the first side storage portion 5A, the second side storage portion 5B, the first end storage portion 5C, and the storage cover portion 5D as described below.

[0068] That is, the first side storage section 5A, for example, Figure 6 As shown, the portion surrounded by the area of ​​the first side receiving portion 5A can accommodate the first side portion 43 containing the first protrusion 431, and has a first engaging portion 51c that protrudes inward in the direction of the first width W1 and is fixed to the housing 5 in a manner that does not displace relative to the housing 5.

[0069] The second side storage section 5B is, for example, as shown in... Figure 6 As shown, the area surrounded by the second side receiving portion 5B can accommodate the second side portion 44 containing the second protrusion 441, and has a second engaging portion 542a protruding inward in the direction of the first width W1.

[0070] For example, the first end storage part 5C Figure 6 As shown, the portion surrounded by the area of ​​the first end storage portion 5C is connected to one end of the first side storage portion 5A and one end of the second side storage portion 5B in such a way that the first end 41 can be stored.

[0071] Storage lid 5D, for example Figure 6 As shown, the portion surrounded by the storage cover portion 5D, at least the first portion of the first side storage portion 5A located in the direction farther away from the first end storage portion 5C than the first engaging portion 51c (e.g. Figure 6 The second portion (e.g., M) in the second side storage portion 5B is located in a direction farther away from the first end storage portion 5C than the second engaging portion 542a. Figure 6 The N) connection. The storage cover 5D forms an opening 51d into which the first end 41 can be inserted.

[0072] In the following cases, the second engaging portion 542a is formed to be connected to the housing 5 in such a way that it is displaced from a first position P1, where the movement of the second protrusion 441 towards the first end receiving portion 5C is restricted by the abutment of the second protrusion 441, to a second position P2, where the second protrusion 441 can move towards the first end receiving portion 5C. That is, (1) before the second protrusion 441 abuts against the second engaging portion 542a, the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted until the first side 43 of the first end 41 abuts against the first end receiving portion 5C while the first protrusion 431 abuts against the first engaging portion 51c. (2) Next, the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted such that the second side 44 of the first end 41 abuts against the first end receiving portion 5C. In this case, the second engaging portion 542a is formed to be connected to the housing 5 in such a way that it is displaced from the first position P1 to the second position P2.

[0073] The second engaging portion 542a is formed to be connected to the housing 5 in such a way that it returns to the first position P1 when the second side portion 44 of the first end portion 41 abuts against the first end receiving portion 5C. In this example, the second engaging portion 542a has a cantilever beam shape with the second engaging portion 542a becoming the free end side and is connected to the housing 5. In this example, the cantilever beam shape extends in the direction from the opening portion 51d toward the first end receiving portion 5C.

[0074] It should be noted that, Figure 6 The areas shown as first side storage portion 5A, second side storage portion 5B, first end storage portion 5C, and storage cover portion 5D are merely examples. As long as the conditions described in the above-mentioned first side storage portion 5A, second side storage portion 5B, first end storage portion 5C, and storage cover portion 5D are met, then... Figure 6 The size and shape of the area shown can also be changed appropriately.

[0075] (Retainer 6)

[0076] Figure 15 This is a diagram representing holder 6. Figure 15 A is a three-dimensional view viewed from above on the outer surface side. Figure 15 B is a three-dimensional view viewed from above on the inner surface side.

[0077] like Figure 15 As shown, the retainer 6 has a main arm portion 61 and a movement limiting portion 62. The retainer 6 is, for example, a molded part based on a thermoplastic resin such as ABS. The main arm portion 61 and the movement limiting portion 62 are connected on the lower side (-z direction side).

[0078] The main arm portion 61 has a generally L-shaped cross-section and is a columnar member extending upward from one side of the bottom wall of the housing assembly 200 when installed on the housing 5, toward the opening 51d side. An insertion auxiliary portion 612 is provided at the end of the extending side (upper side) of the main arm portion 61. The insertion auxiliary portion 612 consists of a fixing portion 6121 protruding toward the end frame portion 52d and a beam portion 6122 protruding from the front end of the protruding side of the fixing portion 6121 toward the side frame portion 52a. The insertion auxiliary portion 612, as a whole, functions as a cantilever beam fixed to the main arm portion 61 via the fixing portion 6121. The beam portion 6122 has an engaging portion 612a protruding toward the end frame portion 52d on the fixing portion 6121 side. The beam portion 6122 has an abutting portion 612b protruding toward the end frame portion 52d near the free end side. According to this structure, when the retainer 6 is installed on the housing 5, the abutment portion 612b abuts against a part of the housing 5, and the insertion auxiliary portion 612 is displaced toward the opening portion 51d. Furthermore, the main arm portion 61 has a guide portion 613 at its end on the opening portion 51d side (-x direction side) along the vertical direction (z-axis direction). A portion of the bottom surface of the main arm portion 61 and the bottom surface of the guide portion 613 form a bottom 613c constituting a continuous surface. The portion of the columnar member of the main arm portion 61, which has a generally L-shaped cross-section, forming the outer side of the housing assembly 200 in the width direction, has a tapered surface 614 on its upper side, which is formed in a manner that thins as it faces upwards.

[0079] The movement restriction part 62 includes a restriction part 621, a secondary arm part 622, a reinforcing part 623, and a bottom surface reinforcing part 624.

[0080] The bottom reinforcement 624 is composed of the following parts: a thin plate-shaped bottom wall 624a, which becomes the bottom wall of the housing assembly 200 when the retainer 6 is installed on the housing 5; a side wall 624b, which in this example rises slightly upward from one end of the bottom wall 624a; and a rib 624c, which protrudes from the bottom wall 624a and the side wall 624b and connects with the reinforcement 623, thereby reinforcing the side wall 624b.

[0081] The limiting part 621, the auxiliary arm part 622, and the reinforcing part 623 are columnar members that rise upward from the bottom reinforcing part 624.

[0082] A limiting portion 621 is provided between the main arm portion 61 and the auxiliary arm portion 622. The limiting portion 621 extends upward from the bottom 621c to a height slightly lower than that of the main arm portion 61. The upper end of the auxiliary arm portion 622 is connected to the limiting portion 621. In this example, a perforated portion 62a is formed by the limiting portion 621, the auxiliary arm portion 622, and the reinforcing portion 623.

[0083] The auxiliary arm 622 extends upward from the bottom 622c to the same height as the main arm 61, and has a locking part 622a protruding towards the side frame 52a and a locking part 622b protruding towards the end frame 52d at its front end.

[0084] The reinforcing part 623 extends to approximately half the height H61 of the main arm part 61. One end wall (+y direction side) of the reinforcing part 623 is connected to the main arm part 61, and one side wall (+x direction side) is connected to the limiting part 621 and the auxiliary arm part 622, thereby improving the rigidity of the retainer 6. It should be noted that the reinforcing part 623 in this example has a groove 6233, the surface of which is continuous with the surface of the main arm part 61. The front end of the extending side of the reinforcing part 623 has a protrusion 6232 that is continuously connected to the main arm part 61, the limiting part 621, and the auxiliary arm part 622 and protrudes upward; and a leg 6231 that is not connected to the main arm part 61, the limiting part 621, and the auxiliary arm part 622 but protrudes upward. The front end of the protrusion 6232 has a conical surface 6232a formed in such a way that the thickness of the column becomes thinner as it faces upward. The front end of the leg 6231 has a locking portion 6231a that protrudes toward the second arm portion 541a2.

[0085] (Housing assembly 200)

[0086] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the installation method of retainer 6. Figure 16 A is a perspective view of the housing 5 before the retainer 6 is installed, viewed from the bottom side. Figure 16 B is in relation to Figure 16 The diagram shows the state of the first locking arm 542 after the retainer 6 is installed, from the same perspective as A. Figure 17 This is a bottom view of the retainer 6 installed in the housing 5. Figure 17 A is a diagram showing the state of the first locking arm 542 when it is moved and released. Figure 17 Figure B shows the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is restricted. Figure 17 In order to illustrate the function of the retainer 6, the first locking arm 542 and the limiting part 621, which are not visually identifiable from the outside, are indicated by dashed lines.

[0087] The housing assembly 200 is assembled by mounting the retainer 6 onto the housing 5. Installation is as follows: Figures 14-17As shown, the front end side (+z direction side) of the main arm 61 is inserted toward the hole 543b, and the front end side of the auxiliary arm 622 is inserted toward the hole 543a. At this time, by inserting the arm while the abutting part 612b abuts against the protrusion 545, the engaging part 622b is inserted into the groove 544a, the engaging part 612a is inserted into the groove 544b, and the engaging part 6231a is inserted into the hole 541a5. When further inserted, the engaging parts 612a and 622b are located above the grooves 544a and 544b (in the +z direction) and can move in the width direction (y-axis direction) of the housing 5. By sliding the retainer 6 in the width direction (y-axis direction), the engaging parts 612a and 622b abut against (engage) the housing 5 forming the grooves 544a and 544b, making the retainer 6 unable to be removed, and the installation of the retainer 6 onto the housing 5 is completed.

[0088] That is, after inserting the retainer 6 to a position where it can move in the width direction (y-axis direction) of the housing 5, the retainer 6 is slid towards the third position P3 or the fourth position P4 (refer to...). Figure 17 When the retainer 6 is in the third position P3 or the fourth position P4, it cannot be removed from the housing 5. To remove the retainer 6 from the housing 5, it is necessary to move the retainer 6 to a position intermediate between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4. To position the retainer 6 in the intermediate position between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4, conscious human intervention is required. Therefore, the cable harness 100 of this disclosure substantially prevents the retainer 6 from falling off. It should be noted that when moving (sliding) the retainer 6 from the third position P3 to the fourth position P4, or from the fourth position P4 to the third position P3, the abutment portion 612b needs to contact the protrusion 545, and the retainer 6 needs to move from the position on the cover 51b side (+y direction side) of the protrusion 545 to the position on the cover 51a side (-y direction side), or from the position on the cover 51a side (-y direction side) of the protrusion 545 to the position on the cover 51b side (+y direction side). During this operation, the person moving the cable can feel the tactile sensation accompanying the displacement of the insertion aid 612 as a so-called click sensation. That is, the cable bundle 100 can be completed not only by the movement (sliding) of the visual recognition retainer 6, but also by tactile recognition.

[0089] Holder 6, for example Figure 17As shown in Figure A, when the main arm 61 is slid to a range where it can move towards the side frame 52b (fourth position P4), the limiting part 621 is positioned so that it does not cover the first locking arm 542 from the outside in the width direction (W51 direction, W52 direction). Therefore, the movement of the second engaging part 542a from the first position P1, which is the position before the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted, to the outside in the width direction of the housing 5 where the first locking arm 542 can move as a cantilever beam (second position P2) is released. On the other hand, as Figure 17 As shown in Figure B, when the main arm 61 slides to a range where it can move towards the side frame 52a (third position P3), the limiting part 621 covers the first locking arm 542 from the outside in the width direction (W51 direction, W52 direction). Therefore, the movement of the second engaging part 542a from the first position P1 to the second position P2 is restricted. That is, the retainer 6 is configured in relation to the housing 5 to be able to move from the third position P3 to the fourth position P4.

[0090] In other words, the retainer 6 configured as described above is as follows. The cable bundle 100 also has a retainer 6 that is separate from the housing 5 and is mounted on the housing 5. The retainer 6 is configured to be movable between a fourth position P4 and a third position P3 in relation to the housing 5. The fourth position P4 is a position in which at least a portion of the retainer 6 covers the second engagement portion 542a from the outside of the first width W1 of the flexible wiring board 4, thereby restricting the displacement of the second engagement portion 542a towards the second position P2. The third position P3 is a position in which at least a portion of the retainer 6 does not cover the second engagement portion 542a from the outside of the first width W1, allowing the second engagement portion 542a to be displaced towards the second position P2.

[0091] (Installation of the flexible wiring board 4-way housing assembly 200)

[0092] Figure 18 This is a right-side view of the cable bundle 100 in the state where the movement of the first locking arm 542 has been released. Figure 19 Is Figure 18 The enlarged view is an AA-line sectional view that omits a portion of the original view. Figure 20 Therefore with Figure 18 The AA-line section view is represented by a similar method. Figure 19 A diagram showing the installation of the flexible wiring board 4 towards the housing 5. Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A magnified view of region X. Figure 21 A represents the insertion point of the flexible wiring board 4. Figure 21 Figure B shows the completed insertion of the flexible wiring board 4. Figure 22 This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the retainer 6. Figure 22A is a diagram showing the state of the first locking arm 542 when it is moved and released. Figure 22 Figure B shows the state in which the movement of the first locking arm 542 is restricted. It should be noted that, in order to illustrate the function of the first protrusion 431 and the second protrusion 441, Figure 19 This is an external view of the flexible wiring board 4, not a cross-sectional view.

[0093] The first width W1 in the width direction of the flexible wiring board 4 including the first protrusion 431 and the second protrusion 441 Figure 8 ) is wider than the opening 51d by W52 ( Figure 10 Slightly longer. That is, in the cable bundle 100 of this disclosure, even if the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted vertically toward the opening 51d, the end of the first end 41 abuts against the outside of the opening 51d, making it impossible to insert the flexible wiring board 4. Therefore, when the first end 41 of the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted toward the opening 51d of the housing 5, as... Figure 20 As shown, while one side abuts the inner surface of the protruding part 51e, the other side abuts the lower surface 51cb. Figure 19 The method of arrival, in Figure 20 From the perspective of rotation, the flexible wiring board 4 is rotated to the right around the first engaging portion 51c, causing surface 4411 to abut against the second engaging portion 542a. In other words, the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted before the second protrusion 441 contacts the second engaging portion 542a, until the first protrusion 431 abuts against the first engaging portion 51c and the first side portion 43 of the first end 41 abuts against the first end receiving portion 5C. Next, the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted such that the second side portion 44 of the first end 41 abuts against the first end receiving portion 5C.

[0094] The first locking arm 542 is a cantilever beam that becomes a free end on the side of the second engaging portion 542a. The second engaging portion 542a is in a first position P1 where movement of the second protrusion 441 towards the first end receiving portion 5C is restricted by abutting against the second protrusion 441. Figure 14 The second position P2 (B) can move towards the first end receiving portion 5C side of the second protrusion 441. Figure 21 The displacement of A) is connected to the second side storage part 5B to form a structure.

[0095] Therefore, as Figure 21 As shown, when the surface 4411 abuts against the second engaging portion 542a, the second engaging portion 542a displaces outward (towards the +x direction) in the width direction of the housing 5, allowing the flexible wiring board 4 to be further inserted. The second protrusion 441 side of the first end 41 also abuts against the protruding portion 51e, thereby returning the second engaging portion 542a to the first position P1. Thus, the installation of the flexible wiring board 4 into the housing assembly 200 is completed. Figure 18 , Figure 19 ).

[0096] In this state, even if the orientation of the cable bundle 100 changes, such as when the positional relationship between the contact portion 51e and the opening portion 51d is reversed, the second protrusion 441 engages with the second engaging portion 542a, and the engagement will not disengage unless the flexible patch panel 4 is removed from the housing assembly 200 by applying force. Therefore, the cable bundle 100 of this disclosure does not require significant constraints on the installation orientation. Furthermore, the arm portion 54 is formed in a shape smaller than the arm portion 53, and the first locking arm portion 542 is configured as part of the arm portion 54. In other words, by installing the retainer 6, the size of the arm portion 54 combined with the retainer 6 is ensured to be the same as that of the arm portion 53. Therefore, the cable bundle 100 of this disclosure can achieve locking of the flexible patch panel and the connector while suppressing the enlargement of the connector.

[0097] After completing the installation of the flexible wiring board 4-way housing assembly 200, as follows Figure 22 As shown, retainer 6 from Figure 22 The third position P3 shown in A is slid to Figure 22 The fourth position P4 shown in B indicates the range of movement towards the side frame portion 52a (-y direction side). Thus, the limiting portion 621 restricts the movement of the first locking arm portion 542 as a cantilever beam outwards in the width direction of the housing 5. This state is called the locked state, and the assembly of the cable bundle 100 is complete.

[0098] After the cable bundle 100 is assembled, even if a pull-out force is applied to remove the flexible patch panel 4 from the housing 5 (even if it is to be removed in the opposite direction to the insertion direction), the surface 4412 abuts (engages) with the lower surface 542ab to limit the movement of removal.

[0099] To remove the flexible wiring board 4 from the housing 5, the retainer 6 slides from the locked state (fourth position P4) to the released movement state (third position P3). In this example, the lower surface 542ab, in the first position P1, is formed to be approximately flat (approximately parallel to the x-axis) from the inside to the center, but from this point outwards (+x side), it is formed into a gradually downward-sloping surface to ensure a hook shape for inserting a clamp or finger to release the lock. Thus, by using, for example, a clamp, to move the first locking arm 542 outwards in the width direction of the housing 5, the aforementioned engagement is released. Therefore, the flexible wiring board 4 can be removed from the housing 5.

[0100] like Figure 21As shown in Figure A, when the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted into the housing 5, the first locking arm 542 displaces outward in the width direction. In other words, the first locking arm 542 displaces outward when the installation of the flexible wiring board 4 into the housing 5 is incomplete or incorrect. In this displaced state, the retainer 6 cannot move (slide) from the third position P3 to the fourth position P4. Therefore, the retainer 6 being in the fourth position P4 indicates that the flexible wiring board 4 is correctly installed in the housing 5. That is, the retainer 6 also functions as a position compensation (fitting guarantee) component, and also has the function of FPA (flex position assurance).

[0101] As described above, the retainer 6 has bottoms 613c, 621c, and 622c. The cable bundle 100 and the counterpart connector 7 are configured such that when the cable bundle 100 is inserted into the counterpart connector 7, i.e., when the retainer 6 is in the third position P3, the bottoms 613c, 621c, and 622c abut against a portion of the counterpart connector 7, preventing the cable bundle 100 from being inserted deeply. The counterpart connector 7 and the cable bundle 100 are configured such that when the cable bundle 100 is inserted into the counterpart connector 7, i.e., when the retainer 6 is in the fourth position P4, the bottoms 613c, 621c, and 622c engage with a predetermined portion of the counterpart connector 7, allowing the cable bundle 100 to be properly inserted into the counterpart connector 7.

[0102] In other words, the sliding of the retainer 6 of the cable bundle 100 of this disclosure to the fourth position P4, which is a locked state, can be described as (1) the flexible patch panel 4 is properly installed in the housing 5, and (2) the cable bundle 100 is able to engage with the other connector 7. That is, the proper insertion of the cable bundle 100 of this disclosure into the other connector 7 can be described as (3) the retainer 6 sliding to the fourth position P4, which is a locked state, and (4) the inserted flexible patch panel 4 being properly installed in the housing 5.

[0103] The above describes one example of an embodiment of the cable harness disclosed herein. In this embodiment, the example described is a flexible patch panel 4 inserted approximately perpendicularly to a printed patch panel, with a corresponding connector 7. Figure 4 However, the other connector 7 can also be a type of connector in which the flexible wiring board 4 is inserted roughly horizontally relative to the printed wiring board.

[0104] Furthermore, the cable bundle 100 and the counterpart connector 7 described in this embodiment can of course be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A cable harness having a flexible wiring board and a case, characterized by the flexible wiring board having: a first end portion having a first width; a second end portion on a side opposite to the first end portion; a first side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, having a first protruding portion protruding to an outside of the first width direction; a second side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, having a second protruding portion protruding to an outside of the first width direction; the case having: a first side portion housing portion capable of housing the first side portion including the first protruding portion, having a first engaging portion protruding to an inside of the first width direction and fixed to the case in a manner not displaced with respect to the case; a second side portion housing portion capable of housing the second side portion including the second protruding portion, having a second engaging portion protruding to an inside of the first width direction; a first end portion housing portion linking one end portion of the first side portion housing portion and one end portion of the second side portion housing portion in a manner capable of housing the first end portion; a housing cover portion linking at least a first site in the first side portion housing portion located in a direction farther from the first end portion than the first engaging portion and a second site in the second side portion housing portion located in a direction farther from the first end portion than the second engaging portion, and forming an opening portion into which the first end portion is capable of being inserted; the second engaging portion, before the second protruding portion and the second engaging portion abut, inserting the flexible wiring board while making the first protruding portion and the first engaging portion abut until the first side portion side of the first end portion and the first end portion housing portion abut, and then, in a case where the flexible wiring board is inserted in a manner making the second side portion side of the first end portion and the first end portion housing portion abut, is formed by being linked to the housing cover portion in a manner displaced from a first position in which movement of the second protruding portion to the first end portion housing portion side is restricted by abutment by the second protruding portion to a second position in which the second protruding portion is capable of moving to the first end portion housing portion side.

2. The cable harness according to claim 1, characterized in that the second engaging portion is formed to return to the first position in a case where the second side portion side of the first end portion and the first end portion housing portion abut.

3. The cable harness according to claim 1, characterized in that the cable harness further has a retainer mounted to the case separately from the case, the retainer is formed to be movable between a fourth position in which displacement of the second engaging portion to the second position is restricted by at least a portion of the retainer covering the second engaging portion from an outside of the first width, and a third position in which the second engaging portion is capable of being displaced to the second position by at least a portion of the retainer not covering the second engaging portion from an outside of the first width, in relation to the case.

4. The cable bundle according to claim 1, wherein the second engaging portion has a cantilever beam shape in which the second engaging portion becomes a free end side, and is connected to the housing.

5. The cable bundle according to claim 4, wherein the cantilever beam shape extends in a direction from the opening portion toward the first end portion accommodating portion.

6. A housing into which a flexible wiring board is capable of being inserted, the housing comprising: the flexible wiring board having: a first end portion having a first width; a second end portion on a side opposite to the first end portion; a first side portion which is one side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, and has a first protruding portion protruding to an outside of the first width direction; and a second side portion which is the other side portion from the first end portion to the second end portion, and has a second protruding portion protruding to the outside of the first width direction; and the housing having: a first side portion accommodating portion capable of accommodating the first side portion including the first protruding portion, and having a first engaging portion protruding to an inside of the first width direction; a second side portion accommodating portion capable of accommodating the second side portion including the second protruding portion, and having a second engaging portion protruding to the inside of the first width direction; a first end portion accommodating portion connecting one end portion of the first side portion accommodating portion and one end portion of the second side portion accommodating portion in a manner capable of accommodating the first end portion; and an accommodating cover portion connecting at least a first portion in the first side portion accommodating portion on a side farther from the first end portion accommodating portion than the first engaging portion, and a second portion in the second side portion accommodating portion on a side farther from the first end portion accommodating portion than the second engaging portion, and forming an opening portion into which the first end portion is capable of being inserted, wherein the second engaging portion is connected to the accommodating cover portion in a manner displaced from a first position in which movement of the second protruding portion to the first end portion accommodating portion side is restricted by abutment of the second protruding portion, to a second position in which the second protruding portion is capable of moving to the first end portion accommodating portion side, after the first protruding portion abuts against the first engaging portion while the flexible wiring board is being inserted until the first side portion side of the first end portion abuts against the first end portion accommodating portion, and then after the flexible wiring board is inserted in a manner in which the second side portion side of the first end portion abuts against the first end portion accommodating portion.

7. The housing according to claim 6, wherein the second engaging portion is formed to return to the first position in a case in which the second side portion side of the first end portion abuts against the first end portion accommodating portion.

8. The housing according to claim 6, wherein the second engaging portion has a cantilever beam shape in which the second engaging portion becomes a free end side, and is connected to the housing.

9. The housing according to claim 8, wherein the cantilever beam shape extends in a direction from the opening portion toward the first end portion accommodating portion. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 10. A housing assembly characterized by, a housing as claimed in claim 6 and a holder separate from the housing which is mountable to the housing, the holder is formed in relation to the housing so as to be movable between a fourth position in which displacement of the second engagement portion toward the second position is restricted by at least a portion of the holder covering the second engagement portion from the outside of the first width, and a third position in which the second engagement portion is allowed to displace toward the second position by at least a portion of the holder not covering the second engagement portion from the outside of the first width.

Images