connector

Abstract

A connector capable of detecting a completed engagement state. The connector includes a first connector (11) and a second connector (12). A first housing (20) has a first body portion (21) and a first locking portion (23). A second housing (50) has a peripheral wall portion (52) and a second locking portion (53). The first connector includes: an outer surface (22) opposing the peripheral wall portion when the peripheral wall portion (52) covers the first body portion (21); a first code (71) disposed on the outer surface (22); and a second code (72) including information different from the first code, disposed on the outer surface (22) in a manner surrounding the first code. The peripheral wall portion (52) has an exposed opening (56) configured such that the first code is exposed and the second code (72) is covered when the engagement state of the first connector and the second connector is completed by the first locking portion (23) and the second locking portion (53).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a connector comprising a housing capable of engaging with a counterpart connector, and an identifier configured to be visually identifiable on the outer surface of the housing. By accessing the exposed identifier, it is detected that engagement with the counterpart connector has been completed and recorded. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-046756 Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] For the identifiers provided by the connector, it is required that the code be used for detection after the mating with the other connector is completed. The purpose of this invention is to provide a connector that can be detected using codes when the mating is complete. Solution for solving the problem

[0005] The connector of the present invention comprises: a first connector including a first housing; and a second connector including a second housing, the first housing being inserted into the second housing, the first housing having a first main body portion and a first locking portion inserted into the second housing, the second housing having a peripheral wall portion and a second locking portion covering the first main body portion, the first connector comprising: an outer surface opposing the peripheral wall portion when the first main body portion is covered by the peripheral wall portion; a first code disposed on the outer surface; and a second code including information different from the first code, disposed on the outer surface in a manner surrounding the first code, the peripheral wall portion having an exposed opening, the exposed opening being configured such that when the first locking portion and the second locking portion complete the engagement state of the first connector and the second connector, the first code is exposed and the second code is covered. Invention Effects

[0006] According to the connector of the present invention, a code can be used for detection when the mating is complete. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the first connector and the second connector of a connector in one embodiment. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Top view of connector 1 and connector 2. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A top view of the first and second connectors in their mated state. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view along line 4-4. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view along line 5-5. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 A top view of the first and second connectors in an unfitted state. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional views of the first and second connectors. Figure 8 It is shown in magnification Figure 2 A top view of the identifier. Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A top view of an example of the first and second codes included in the identifier. Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 Top view of the second yard. Figure 11 It is magnification Figure 3 Part of the connector, showing a top view of the exposed opening of the second housing and the status of the first and second codes. Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing the reading of the first and second connectors and the first and second codes before they are engaged. Figure 13 This is a top view showing the connector engagement state of the first and second connectors in the modified example. Figure 14 This is a side view showing the connector engagement state of the first and second connectors in a modified example. Figure 15 This is a bottom view showing the connector engagement state of the first and second connectors in a modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0008] [Description of embodiments of the present invention] First, embodiments of the present invention will be described. [1] The connector of the present invention comprises: a first connector including a first housing; and a second connector including a second housing, the first housing being inserted into the second housing, the first housing having a first main body portion and a first locking portion inserted into the second housing, the second housing having a peripheral wall portion and a second locking portion covering the first main body portion, the first connector comprising: an outer surface opposing the peripheral wall portion when the first main body portion is covered by the peripheral wall portion; a first code disposed on the outer surface; and a second code including information different from the first code, disposed on the outer surface in a manner surrounding the first code, the peripheral wall portion having an exposed opening, the exposed opening being configured such that when the first locking portion and the second locking portion complete the engagement state of the first connector and the second connector, the first code is exposed and the second code is covered.

[0009] According to this structure, when the engagement of the first connector and the second connector is completed, the second code is covered by the second housing around the exposed opening, and the first code is exposed from the exposed opening, so the engagement completion state can be detected by the first code.

[0010] [2] In the above [1], the first code and the second code may also be composed of multiple units, and the size of the unit of the first code and the unit of the second code are different from each other.

[0011] According to this structure, when the first connector and the second connector are detached from each other, the second code is exposed together with the first code. The whole is detected by the second code, which has a different unit size, thus preventing the detection of the first code.

[0012] [3] In [2] above, it is also possible that the unit constituting the first code is smaller than the unit constituting the second code. According to this structure, since the information is included in the first code through the cell, the cell is small, so that even if the range of the first code surrounded by the second code is small, the information required for the first code can be reliably included.

[0013] [4] In any of [1] to [3] above, it may also include a non-code region, wherein the non-code region is located between the first region configured with the first code and the second region configured with the second code.

[0014] According to this structure, the first code can be exposed through the exposed opening via the non-code region, and the second code can be covered. [5] In the above [4], the non-code region may also form a ring surrounding the first code.

[0015] According to this structure, even if the first connector is misaligned relative to the second connector, the first code can be exposed more reliably from the exposed opening, and the second code can be covered more reliably.

[0016] [6] In any of [1] to [5] above, the area of ​​the first region where the first code is configured may be less than 5% of the area of ​​the code region where the first code and the second code are configured.

[0017] According to this structure, with the first code and the second code exposed, the area of ​​the first region containing the first code is smaller than that of the second code, thus the second code can be read more reliably.

[0018] [7] In any of [1] to [6] above, the first connector may also include a position guaranteeing member assembled to the first housing, which is allowed to move from a temporary locking position to a formal locking position when the engagement of the first connector and the second connector is completed.

[0019] According to this structure, the position guaranteeing member can disengage the first connector and the second connector relative to each other in the temporary locking position, and prevents the first connector and the second connector from disengaging relative to each other in the formal locking position.

[0020] [Details of embodiments of the present invention] Specific examples of the connector of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, for ease of explanation, parts of the structure are sometimes exaggerated or simplified. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios of the various parts sometimes differ in the drawings. Additionally, the term "ring-shaped" as used in this specification sometimes refers to any structure forming a ring, or a continuous shape without ends, and a generally ring-shaped structure with gaps, such as a C-shape. The shape of "ring-shaped" includes circles, ellipses, and polygons with pointed or rounded corners, but is not limited thereto. The term "opposite" in this specification refers to a position where surfaces or components are directly opposite each other, including not only positions where they are completely opposite each other, but also positions where they are partially opposite each other. Furthermore, "opposite" in this specification includes cases where a component independent of the two parts is introduced between the two parts, and cases where nothing is introduced between the two parts. Additionally, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., in this specification are used only to distinguish objects and do not order the objects.

[0021] (Structure of connector 10) like Figure 1As shown, connector 10 includes a first connector 11 and a second connector 12. The first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are connected by moving relative to each other along a first axis X. The connector 10 of this embodiment is, for example, installed in a vehicle.

[0022] It should be noted that in each figure, the diagram illustrates a first axis X, a second axis Y orthogonal to the first axis X, and a third axis Z orthogonal to both the first axis X and the second axis Y. Furthermore, the diagram illustrates a mating direction X1 along the first axis X and a mating reverse direction X2 opposite to X1. Additionally, the diagram illustrates a mounting direction Y1 along the second axis Y and a mounting reverse direction Y2 opposite to Y1. Finally, the diagram illustrates an upward direction Z1 along the third axis Z and a downward direction Z2 opposite to the upward direction Z1.

[0023] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the first connector 11 includes a first housing 20, a first terminal 31, a first stop 32, and a position guarantee member 33. The second connector 12 includes a second housing 50, a second terminal 61, and a second stop 62. For example, the first terminal 31 is a female terminal, and the second terminal 61 is a male terminal.

[0024] (Structure of the first connector 11) like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the first housing 20 has a first main body portion 21 and a first locking portion 23. The first housing 20 is made of resin.

[0025] The first main body 21 has an outer surface 22. The outer surface 22 includes an upper surface 22A, a lower surface 22B opposite to the upper surface 22A, and a first side surface 22C and a second side surface 22D connecting the upper surface 22A and the lower surface 22B. The first main body 21 has a generally cuboid shape. The first main body 21 houses a first terminal 31. The first main body 21 can house multiple first terminals 31. Terminals with shapes different from the first terminals 31 can also be housed in the first main body 21. Multiple first terminals 31 are housed in corresponding housing portions of the first main body 21. A first stop 32 is inserted into the first main body 21. The first stop 32 is made of resin. The first stop 32 prevents the first terminal 31 from falling out of the first main body 21.

[0026] like Figure 4As shown, the first locking part 23 is provided on the upper surface 22A of the first main body part 21. For example, the first locking part 23 is integral with the first main body part 21. The first locking part 23 is, for example, an elastic sheet integrally provided with the first main body part 21. The first locking part 23 is provided on the upper surface 22A of the first main body part 21 at the center along the second axis Y. The first locking part 23 protrudes upward Z1 from the upper surface 22A of the first main body part 21 and then extends in the opposite direction of engagement X2, and can elastically deform downward Z2.

[0027] The first locking part 23 has a locking hole 24 at its center along the first axis X. The first locking part 23 has a rising inclined part 25 that is inclined upwards Z1 toward the locking hole 24 on the side closer to the engagement direction X1. The first locking part 23 has an operating part 26 on the side closer to the engagement direction X2 than the locking hole 24. The first locking part 23 can be elastically deformed, for example, by pressing the rising inclined part 25 downwards Z2. Additionally, the first locking part 23 can be elastically deformed by pressing the operating part 26 downwards Z2.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the first housing 20 has an assembly portion 27 for the position-guaranteeing member 33 on the upper surface 22A of the first main body portion 21. The assembly portion 27 has a pair of sidewalls 28 protruding upward Z1. The pair of sidewalls 28 are arranged side by side along the second axis Y and extend along the first axis X. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a pair of sidewalls 28 are positioned at the operating portion 26, separated from the first locking portion 23. Although not shown, the pair of sidewalls 28 have protrusions that project from the middle portion along the first axis X in a direction toward each other. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the assembly part 27 has a connecting part 29 that connects a pair of sidewalls 28.

[0029] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the position guarantee component 33 is assembled into the assembly part 27 of the first housing 20. The position-guaranteeing component 33 is made of resin. When assembled into the assembly part 27, the position-guaranteeing component 33 can... Figure 3 The temporary stop position K1, indicated by the solid line, faces the direction of... Figure 4 The final locking position K2, indicated by the single-dotted line, moves towards the final locking direction X1 along the first axis X. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 7 and Figure 12 The image shows the position-guaranteeing member 33 located at the temporary locking position K1. It should be noted that the formal locking direction X1 in this embodiment is the same as the engagement direction X1 of the first connector 11.

[0030] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the position-guaranteeing member 33 has a main body 34, a pair of assembly pieces 35, an action piece 36, and an action protrusion 37. The pair of assembly pieces 35 are disposed on the main body 34 at a distance from the main body 34 along the second axis Y. The pair of assembly pieces 35 extend in the formal locking direction X1. The pair of assembly pieces 35 can elastically deform toward a direction of mutual approach, i.e., toward the main body 34. Although not shown, the pair of assembly pieces 35 have assembly protrusions at their top ends that project in a direction of mutual distance.

[0031] like Figure 4 As shown, the actuating piece 36 extends obliquely upward Z1 from the main body 34 in the formal locking direction X1. The actuating piece 36 can elastically deform downward Z2. The actuating piece 36 has an actuating protrusion 37 protruding upward Z1 at its top end.

[0032] like Figure 3 As shown, the functional protrusion 37 is positioned to protrude from the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23 when viewed from the direction along the third axis Z, with the position securing member 33 in the temporary locking position K1. The functional protrusion 37 is configured such that, when the first connector 11 is not inserted into the second connector 12, and with the position securing member 33 in the temporary locking position K1, the functional protrusion 37 engages with the locking hole 24 in the formal locking direction X1.

[0033] (Structure of the second connector 12) like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the second connector 12 includes a second housing 50, a second terminal 61, and a second stop 62.

[0034] The second housing 50 is made of resin. The second housing 50 includes a second main body 51, a peripheral wall 52, and a second locking part 53. The second main body 51 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. Figure 4 As shown, the second main body 51 houses the second terminal 61. The second main body 51 can house multiple second terminals 61. The multiple second terminals 61 sometimes correspond to multiple first terminals 31 and include terminals of different shapes. The multiple second terminals 61 are housed in corresponding housing portions of the second main body 51. A second stop 62 is inserted into the second main body 51. The second stop 62 is made of resin. The second stop 62 prevents the second terminal 61 from falling out of the second main body 51.

[0035] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the peripheral wall portion 52 extends from the second main body portion 51 in the opposite direction X2 of the fitting. (As...) Figure 4 As shown, the peripheral wall portion 52 surrounds the top portion of the second terminal 61. Figure 1 As shown, viewed from the fitting direction X1, the peripheral wall portion 52 has a rectangular ring shape. Figures 3 to 5As shown, the peripheral wall portion 52 is provided in such a way that it surrounds the first body portion 21 of the first connector 11.

[0036] The peripheral wall portion 52 has an upper wall 52A, a lower wall 52B, a first side wall 52C, and a second side wall 52D. The upper wall 52A and the lower wall 52B are arranged separately from each other on a third axis Z. The first side wall 52C and the second side wall 52D are arranged separately from each other on a second axis Y. The first side wall 52C and the second side wall 52D connect the upper wall 52A and the lower wall 52B.

[0037] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the peripheral wall portion 52 covers the outer surface 22 of the first main body portion 21. (As indicated...) Figure 5 As shown, the upper wall 52A of the peripheral wall portion 52 faces the upper surface 22A of the first main body portion 21. The lower wall 52B of the peripheral wall portion 52 faces the lower surface 22B of the first main body portion 21. Figure 3 As shown, the first side wall 52C of the peripheral wall portion 52 is opposite to the first side surface 22C of the first main body portion 21. The second side wall 52D of the peripheral wall portion 52 is opposite to the second side surface 22D of the first main body portion 21.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the second locking part 53 is provided in such a way that it protrudes upward Z1 from the upper wall 52A of the peripheral wall part 52. (As shown...) Figure 4 As shown, the second locking part 53 is provided to cover a portion of the first locking part 23. Specifically, the second locking part 53 is provided to cover the rising inclined portion 25 and the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23. The second locking part 53 has a locking protrusion 54 protruding downwards (Z2) at its top end 53A. The locking protrusion 54 is disposed within the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23. The locking protrusion 54 disposed within the locking hole 24 engages with the locking hole 24 in the opposite engagement direction (X2).

[0039] like Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 5 As shown, the second housing 50 has an exposed opening 56. The exposed opening 56 is provided on the peripheral wall portion 52. In the connector 10 of the embodiment, the exposed opening 56 is provided on the upper wall 52A of the peripheral wall portion 52, exposing a portion of the upper surface 22A of the first main body portion 21. Viewed from above the second connector 12, the exposed opening 56 has a rectangular shape.

[0040] like Figure 5As shown, the exposed opening 56 has a shape in which the size of the outer surface 52A2 of the upper wall 52A (the second opening width) is larger than the size of the inner surface 52A1 of the upper wall 52A of the peripheral wall portion 52 (the first opening width). Specifically, the exposed opening 56 has a first opening portion 56A near the inner surface 52A1 and a second opening portion 56B between the first opening portion 56A and the outer surface 52A2. The first opening portion 56A extends along the third axis Z. The first opening portion 56A has a first opening width. The second opening portion 56B has a shape in which the opening width gradually increases along the third axis Z from the first opening portion 56A toward the outer surface 52A2. The opening width on the outer surface 52A2 is the second opening width. It should be noted that the size of the exposed opening 56 is defined as a size for exposing a portion of the upper surface 22A of the first main body portion 21. The size of the exposed opening 56 in the embodiment is represented by the width of the first opening on the inner surface 52A1 of the upper wall 52A.

[0041] (Mating of connector 11 and connector 12) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are shown in the state where the mating is completed. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are shown in a state of engagement, that is, engagement is not yet complete.

[0042] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in the incomplete engagement state, the locking protrusion 54 of the second locking part 53 provided on the second connector 12 presses the rising inclined part 25 of the first locking part 23 downwards Z2. In this incomplete engagement state, by moving the first connector 11 in the opposite engagement direction X2, the first connector 11 can be disengaged from the second connector 12. In addition, in this incomplete engagement state, since the action protrusion 37 of the position guaranteeing member 33 is engaged with the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23, movement of the position guaranteeing member 33 can be prevented.

[0043] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in the engaged state, the locking protrusion 54 of the second locking part 53 is inserted into the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23. In this case, the locking hole 24 of the first locking part 23 and the locking protrusion 54 of the second locking part 53 engage along the first axis X. In this state, the first locking part 23 and the second locking part 53 prevent relative movement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 along the first axis X. That is, the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are locked by the first locking part 23 and the second locking part 53.

[0044] When the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are engaged, the position guarantee member 33 moves from the temporary locking position K1 to the formal locking position K2, thereby preventing the relative disengagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, with the engagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 complete, the actuating piece 36 is pressed downwards by Z2 by the second locking part 53 of the second connector 12. This disengages the actuating protrusion 37 from the locking hole 24, allowing the position-guaranteeing member 33 to move towards the final locking position K2. Furthermore, in the disengaged state of the actuating protrusion 37 and the locking hole 24, the first locking part 23 can elastically deform downwards by Z2. Therefore, by pressing the operating part 26 downwards by Z2, the second locking part 53 and the locking hole 24 become disengaged in the opposite engagement direction X2, allowing the second connector 12 and the first connector 11 to disengage relative to each other. Thus, the position-guaranteeing member 33 can disengage the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 relative to each other in the temporary locking position K1.

[0046] When the position-guaranteeing member 33 moves to the final locking position K2 indicated by the single-dot dash, the action piece 36, including the action protrusion 37, is disposed between the first locking part 23 and the first main body part 21. This action piece 36 prevents the first locking part 23 from elastically deforming downwards Z2. This prevents the second locking part 53 from dislodging from its embedded state in the locking hole 24, thus preventing relative disengagement between the second locking part 53 and the first locking part 23 of the second connector 12. The position-guaranteeing member 33 is held in the final locking position K2 by protrusions provided on a pair of assembly pieces 35 and protrusions provided on a pair of sidewalls 28 of the assembly part 27. Thus, the position-guaranteeing member 33 prevents relative disengagement between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 at the final locking position K2.

[0047] (The structure of identifier 70, first code 71, and second code 72) like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the first connector 11 includes an identifier 70. The identifier 70 is provided on the exposed surface of the first body portion 21. For example, the identifier 70 is provided on the upper surface 22A of the first body portion 21. Figure 3 As shown, the identifier 70 is provided in the upper surface 22A of the first main body 21, in the portion covered by the second housing 50 of the second connector 12 when the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are prevented from disengaging. In the connector 10 of the embodiment, the identifier 70 is provided in the central portion of the upper surface 22A of the first main body 21 along the first axis X.

[0048] The second housing 50 of the second connector 12 has an exposed opening 56 that exposes a portion of the identifier 70. The exposed opening 56 is positioned in both the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 in a mated state to expose a portion of the identifier 70. Specifically, the exposed opening 56 is configured such that, in the mated state, the first code 71 is exposed and the second code 72 is covered. The exposure of the first code 71 refers to the state where the first code 71 can be read. Figure 6 As shown, when the engagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 is incomplete, the exposed opening 56 is located at a position offset relative to the first code 71 in the engagement direction X1, thus preventing the first code 71 from being exposed. Figure 6 In the middle, the exposed opening 56 exposes a portion of the second code 72. Relative to... Figure 6 When the first connector 11 moves further in the opposite direction of mating X2, the exposed opening 56 becomes a state in which the second code 72 is not exposed but the upper surface 22A of the second housing 50 is exposed.

[0049] like Figures 8 to 11 As shown, the identifier 70 is disposed in the code region 80, which is located on the upper surface 22A of the first main body portion 21 of the first housing 20. Viewed along the third axis Z, the code region 80 has a rectangular shape. For example, the code region 80 is square. The code region 80 can be changed to any shape, such as a rectangle.

[0050] The identifier 70 is configured, for example, by laser processing of the upper surface 22A of the first main body 21. The configuration method of the identifier 70 can be changed arbitrarily. For example, it can be printed on the upper surface 22A of the first main body 21, or a plate-shaped code separate from the first housing 20 can be pasted on the upper surface 22A of the first main body 21.

[0051] The code area 80 includes a first area 81 and a second area 82. In one embodiment, the first area 81 is located at the center of the code area 80. Viewed along the third axis Z, the first area 81 has a rectangular shape. In another embodiment, the first area 81 is square. The second area 82 is arranged to surround the first area 81. In another embodiment, the second area 82 has a rectangular ring shape. The first area 81 can be changed to any shape, such as a rectangle. The position of the first area 81 can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the first area 81 can also be located at a corner of the code area 80.

[0052] Configuration in Zone 1, 81 Figure 9 The first code, 71, is shown. It is configured in area 2, 82. Figure 9The second code 72 is shown. It can be said that the code region 80 configured with the identifier 70 includes the first region 81 configured with the first code 71 and the second region 82 configured with the second code 72.

[0053] Code region 80 includes a non-code region 83 disposed between the first region 81 and the second region 82. The non-code region 83 is configured to surround the first region 81. The non-code region 83 has a ring shape surrounding the first region 81. In this embodiment, the non-code region 83 has the same width along the first region 81. The width of the non-code region 83 may also vary locally.

[0054] Code 1 71 and Code 2 72 contain different information. Code 1 71 may include, for example, "intercalation complete" and "batch number". Code 2 72 may include, for example, "intercalation incomplete". It should be noted that the above information is one example including both Code 1 71 and Code 2 72. For example, Code 2 72 could also include "intercalation incomplete" and "batch number".

[0055] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the second code 72 is, for example, a QR code. As a QR code, a data matrix can be used, for example. As the second code 72, a QR code other than a data matrix can also be used. Furthermore, the second code 72 can also be a code other than a QR code, such as a one-dimensional barcode, a three-dimensional barcode, etc.

[0056] Code 72 includes detection patterns 72A and 72B disposed on the outer periphery and a data pattern 72C surrounded by the detection patterns 72A and 72B. For example, detection pattern 72A represents the area where the data pattern 72C is disposed, and detection pattern 72B represents the arrangement of the data pattern 72C. These detection patterns 72A and 72B can detect the data pattern 72C.

[0057] The detection patterns 72A and 72B and the data pattern 72C are composed of a first unit 74A and a second unit 74B. That is, the second code 72 is composed of multiple first units 74A and multiple second units 74B. The first units 74A and the second units 74B can be used in the detection device 100 (refer to the identification device 70) to read the identifier 70. Figure 12 They are distinguished from each other. For example, detection pattern 72A consists only of multiple first units 74A, while detection pattern 72B consists of multiple first units 74A and multiple second units 74B. Figures 9 to 11In this design, the first unit 74A is represented by black, and the second unit 74B is represented by white. The colors of the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B can be changed arbitrarily. For example, the second unit 74B can be the same color as the first main body 21, and the first unit 74A only needs to be distinguishable from the second unit 74B. In this embodiment, the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B are square in shape. The shapes of the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B can be changed arbitrarily.

[0058] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the first code 71 is, for example, a QR code. In the embodiment, the first code 71 is the same as the second code 72, for example, using a data matrix. Alternatively, a QR code other than a data matrix can be used as the first code 71. Furthermore, the first code 71 can also use codes other than QR codes, such as one-dimensional codes, three-dimensional codes, etc.

[0059] like Figure 11 As shown, the first code 71 includes detection patterns 71A and 71B and a data pattern 71C. Detection patterns 71A and 71B and data pattern 71C are composed of first units 73A and second units 73B. That is, the first code 71 is composed of multiple first units 73A and multiple second units 73B. The first units 73A and second units 73B can pass through the detection device 100 (see reference). Figure 12 They are mutually distinguishable. The first unit 73A and the second unit 73B in the embodiment are square in shape. The shapes of the first unit 73A and the second unit 73B can be changed arbitrarily.

[0060] In the identifier 70 of the embodiment, the sizes of the first unit 73A and the second unit 73B of the first code 71 and the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B of the second code 72 are different. In the embodiment, the size of the first unit 73A and the second unit 73B of the first code 71 is smaller than the size of the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B of the second code 72. The size of the first region 81 on which the first code 71 is disposed is smaller than the size of the second region 82 on which the second code 72 is disposed. Therefore, by constructing the first code 71 with the first unit 73A and the second unit 73B which are smaller than the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B of the second code 72, a lot of information can be included in the first code 71.

[0061] (Reading identifier 70) Identifier 70 is Figure 12 The detection device 100 shown reads information. For example, the detection device 100 includes: a reader 101, an optical reader identifier 70; and a recording device 102 for recording the information read by the reader 101.

[0062] like Figure 12As shown, with the first connector 11 detached from the second connector 12, the identifier 70 is read by the reader 101. The code read by the reader 101 is processed in the recording device 102.

[0063] exist Figure 12 In the indicated state, reader 101 reads all units included in code area 80, namely second code 72 and first code 71 surrounded by second code 72, and sends them to recording device 102. Recording device 102 displays the information included in the code sent from reader 101.

[0064] like Figure 9 As shown, the identifier 70 includes a first code 71 and a second code 72 arranged to surround the first code 71. In the recording device 102, the detection patterns 72A and 72B of the second code 72, located on the outer periphery of the identifier 70, are used to determine the unit disposed in the portion inside the detection patterns 72A and 72B. Therefore, the second code 72, which is composed of the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B of the same size as the detection pattern 72B, can be read.

[0065] In addition, Figure 12 In the shown state, code 72 and code 71 are read. Code 71 is composed of a first unit 73A and a second unit 73B, which are smaller than code 72. Code 71 is surrounded by code 72. Therefore, code 71 can be identified as part of code 72. That is, in this embodiment, connector 10 prevents the correct reading of code 71 when the entire identifier 70, i.e., code 71 and code 72, can be read.

[0066] As with the first code 71 relative to the second code 72, the QR code read by the reader 101 sometimes includes misread or unreadable data as erroneous data. In this case, the recording device 102 may not be able to obtain the information contained in the QR code. Therefore, by correcting the QR code containing erroneous data, the recording device 102 can obtain the information contained in the QR code.

[0067] The sizes of the first unit 73A and the second unit 73B constituting the first code 71 are different from the sizes of the first unit 74A and the second unit 74B constituting the second code 72. Therefore, the first code 71 can be identified as part of the second code 72 and is an error code. The area of ​​the first region 81 in which the first code 71 is disposed is less than 5% of the area of ​​the code region 80 in which the identifier 70 is disposed. In this case, the recording device 102 can obtain information of the second code 72 by correcting errors in the QR code that includes the first code 71 as erroneous data. That is, the connector 10 can obtain information of the second code 72 by disposing of the first code 71 in the first region 81, which has an area of ​​less than 5% of the area of ​​the code region 80 in which the first code 71 and the second code 72 are disposed.

[0068] The recording device 102 corrects errors in the code of the identifier 70 to obtain the information included in the second code 72. The information in the second code 72 includes "fitting incomplete". Therefore, if the entire identifier 70 has been read, the recording device 102 indicates that the reading is incorrect and does not record the information. The display device in the recording device 102 includes, for example, an LCD or other display device that displays text and graphics. It should be noted that the display device included in the recording device 102 may also include a device that displays information using colors, such as LEDs. In this way, the connector 10 in this embodiment prevents the reading of the first code 71 and the recording of the information in the first code 71 when the fitting of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 is incomplete.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, with the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 fully engaged, as... Figure 11 As shown, the second code 72 is covered by the second housing 50 of the second connector 12, and the first code 71 is exposed from the exposed opening 56. The first code 71 includes detection patterns 71A and 71B. Therefore, Figure 12 The reader 101 of the detection device 100 shown can read the first code 71 using the detection patterns 71A and 71B. Furthermore, Figure 12 The recording device 102 of the detection device 100 shown receives information including "fitting complete" and "batch number" as information included in the first code 71 read by the reader 101. The recording device 102 displays that the reading is normal and records the information. In this way, the connector 10 of the embodiment can reliably record the state that the fitting of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 has been completed.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, the code region 80 configured with the identifier 70 includes a non-code region 83 between the first region 81 configured with the first code 71 and the second region 82 configured with the second code 72. For example... Figure 11As shown, the first code 71 is separated from the exposed opening 56 of the second housing 50 through the non-code region 83. Therefore, the first code 71 can be reliably exposed and the second code 72 can be reliably covered. The width of the non-code region 83 can also be larger than the size of the units 73A and 73B constituting the first code 71.

[0071] (An example of an identifier size of 70) like Figure 8 As shown, code region 80 has a first side 80A and a second side 80B extending along the first axis X, and a third side 80C and a fourth side 80D extending along the second axis Y. The lengths LX2 of the first side 80A and the second side 80B, and the lengths LY2 of the third side 80C and the fourth side 80D, are equal. Lengths LX2 and LY2 are, for example, 7 mm. First region 81 has a first side 81A and a second side 81B extending along the first axis X, and a third side 81C and a fourth side 81D extending along the second axis Y. The lengths LX1 of the first side 81A and the second side 81B, and the lengths LY1 of the third side 81C and the fourth side 81D, are equal. Lengths LX1 and LY1 are, for example, 1.5 mm. The width of non-code region 83 has a width WX along the first axis X and a width WY along the second axis Y. Widths WX and WY are, for example, 0.5 mm.

[0072] (Effects of the implementation method) The effects of the implementation method will be explained below. (1) Connector 10 includes a first connector 11 including a first housing 20 and a second connector 12 including a second housing 50. The first housing 20 has a first body portion 21 and a first locking portion 23 that are inserted into the second housing 50. The second housing 50 has a peripheral wall portion 52 covering the first body portion 21 and a second locking portion 53. The first connector 11 includes an outer surface 22, which faces the peripheral wall portion 52 when the peripheral wall portion 52 covers the first body portion 21. The first connector 11 includes a first code 71 disposed on the outer surface 22 and a second code 72, which includes information different from the first code 71 and is disposed on the outer surface 22 in a manner surrounding the first code 71. The peripheral wall portion 52 has an exposed opening 56 configured such that when the first locking portion 23 and the second locking portion 53 are engaged with the second connector 12, the first code 71 is exposed and the second code 72 is covered.

[0073] According to this structure, when the engagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 is complete, the second code 72 is covered by the second housing 50 surrounding the exposed opening 56, and the first code 71 is exposed from the exposed opening 56. Therefore, the completion of the engagement can be detected by the first code 71.

[0074] (2) Code 71 and Code 72 are composed of multiple units 73A, 73B, 74A, and 74B. The units 73A and 73B of Code 71 and the units 74A and 74B of Code 72 are of different sizes. Therefore, when the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are disconnected, Code 72 is exposed along with Code 71. In this case, the entire code is detected by Code 72, whose units 73A, 73B, 74A, and 74B are of different sizes, thus preventing the detection of Code 71.

[0075] (3) The units 73A and 73B constituting the first code 71 are smaller than the units 74A and 74B constituting the second code 72. Since the first code 71 includes information through the units 73A and 73B, the smaller units 73A and 73B ensure that the first code 71, even if the range of the first code 71 surrounded by the second code 72 is small, can reliably include the information required by the first code 71.

[0076] (4) Includes a non-code region 83, which is disposed between a first region 81 configured with a first code 71 and a second region 82 configured with a second code 72. Therefore, the first code 71 can be exposed through the exposed opening 56 via the non-code region 83, and the second code 72 can be covered.

[0077] (5) The non-code region 83 has a ring shape surrounding the first code 71. Therefore, even if the first connector 11 is misaligned relative to the second connector 12, the first code 71 can be exposed more reliably from the exposed opening 56, and the second code 72 can be covered more reliably.

[0078] (6) The area of ​​the first region 81 configured with the first code 71 is less than 5% of the area of ​​the code region 80 configured with the first code 71 and the second code 72. Therefore, when the first code 71 and the second code 72 are exposed, the area of ​​the first region 81 configured with the first code 71 is smaller than that of the second code 72, so the second code 72 can be read more reliably.

[0079] (7) The first connector 11 includes a position-guaranteeing member 33, which is assembled to the first housing 20 and is allowed to move from a temporary locking position K1 to a permanent locking position K2 when the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are engaged. The position-guaranteeing member 33 allows the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 to disengage relative to each other in the temporary locking position K1, and prevents the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 from disengaging relative to each other in the permanent locking position.

[0080] (8) The width of the second opening 56 on the outer surface 52A2 of the upper wall 52A of the peripheral wall 52 is greater than the width of the first opening on the inner surface 52A1 of the upper wall 52A. The first code 71 can be easily identified from the outside of the second connector 12, and therefore the first code 71 can be easily read by the reader 101.

[0081] (Other implementation methods) The above embodiments can be implemented with the following modifications. The above embodiments and the following variations can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0082] With the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 fully engaged, it is sufficient that the entire state of the first code 71 can be read from the exposed opening 56. The size of the exposed opening 56 can also be arbitrarily changed. Furthermore, as long as the entire state of the first code 71 can be read from the exposed opening 56, the widths WX and WY of the non-code area 83 can be arbitrarily changed, and the non-code area 83 can be omitted.

[0083] The positions of the identifier 70 (code 1 71 and code 2 72) and the exposed opening 56 can also be changed arbitrarily. like Figure 13 As shown, the identifier 70 (first code 71 and second code 72) can also be disposed near the top end 21S of the first body portion 21 of the first connector 11 in the mating direction X1 relative to the second connector 12. The exposed opening 56 can also be disposed in a position that exposes the first code 71 and covers the second code 72, corresponding to the placement position of the identifier 70.

[0084] like Figure 14 As shown, the identifier 70 (first code 71 and second code 72) can also be disposed on the second side surface 22D of the first main body 21. The exposed opening 56 can also be disposed on the second side wall 52D of the second housing 50. It should be noted that, although not shown, the identifier 70 (first code 71 and second code 72) can also be disposed on... Figure 3 The first side surface 22C of the first main body 21 shown. The exposed opening 56 can also be arranged corresponding to the arrangement position of the identifier 70. Figure 3 The first sidewall 52C of the second housing 50 shown.

[0085] like Figure 15 As shown, the identifier 70 (first code 71 and second code 72) can also be disposed on the lower surface 22B of the first main body 21. The exposed opening 56 can also be disposed on the lower wall 52B of the second housing 50 corresponding to the placement position of the identifier 70.

[0086] Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the identifiers 70 (first code 71 and second code 72) can also be disposed on at least two or more surfaces of the upper surface 22A, lower surface 22B, first side surface 22C, and second side surface 22D of the first main body 21. The exposed openings 56 can also be disposed on two or more portions corresponding to the placement positions of the identifiers 70. With this configuration, it is only necessary to visually identify one of the multiple identifiers 70 and read the first code 71 of that identifier 70, thus making it easier to read the identifiers 70 and shortening the time involved in the process of recording the completion of the fitting.

[0087] Assembly part 27 and position guarantee component 33 can also be omitted. The configuration position or shape of the assembly part 27 and the position guaranteeing member 33 can be changed arbitrarily. For example, the relative disengagement of the first connector 11 and the second connector 12 can also be prevented by a rod.

[0088] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects, and the invention is not limited to these illustratives. That is, the scope of the invention is set forth in the claims and is intended to include all modifications in the sense and scope of the claims. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0089] 10 connectors 11th connector 12 Second Connector 20 First shell 21. First Main Body 21S Top 22 Outer surface 22A upper surface 22B lower surface 22C First Side 22D Second Side 23 First Locking Section 24 locking holes 25 Inclined section 26 Operations Department 27 Assembly Department 28 Sidewalls 29 Connecting parts 31 Terminal 1 32 1st stopper 33 Position Guarantee Components 34 Main body 35 assembled pieces 36 Action Tablets 37 Action convex part 50 Second shell 51. Main Body Section 2 52. Perimeter of the wall 52A upper wall 52A1 inner surface 52A2 outer surface 52B Lower Wall 52C First sidewall 52D Second sidewall 53 Second Locking Section 53A Top Part 54. Locking protrusion 56. Exposed opening 56A First opening section 56B Second opening section 61 Terminal 2 62 2nd stopper 70 Identifier 71 First code 71A Detection Pattern 71B Detection Pattern 71C data pattern 72 Second code 72A Detection Pattern 72B Detection Pattern 72C Data Pattern 73A Unit 1 73B Unit 2 74A Unit 1 74B Unit 2 80-yard area 80A Side 1 80B Side 2 80C, 3rd side 80D 4th side 81 Area 1 81A Side 1 81B Side 2 81C Third Side 81D Side 4 82 Area 2 83 Non-code area

Claims

1. A connector comprising: The first connector, including the first housing; and The second connector includes a second housing, into which the first housing is inserted. The first housing has a first main body portion and a first locking portion that are inserted into the second housing. The second housing has a peripheral wall portion covering the first main body portion and a second locking portion. The first connector includes: The outer surface is opposite to the peripheral wall portion when the first main body portion is covered by the peripheral wall portion; The first code is set on the outer surface; And a second code, including information different from the first code, is arranged on the outer surface in a manner that surrounds the first code. The peripheral wall portion has an exposed opening, which is configured such that when the first locking portion and the second locking portion complete the engagement of the first connector and the second connector, the first code is exposed and the second code is covered.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The first code and the second code are composed of multiple units. The size of the unit in the first code and the size of the unit in the second code are different.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein, The unit constituting the first code is smaller than the unit constituting the second code.

4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, It includes a non-code region, which is located between a first region configured with the first code and a second region configured with the second code.

5. The connector according to claim 4, wherein, The non-code region forms a ring surrounding the first code.

6. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The area of ​​the first region configured with the first code is less than 5% of the area of ​​the code region configured with the first code and the second code.

7. The connector according to claim 1, wherein, The first connector includes a position-guaranteeing member assembled to the first housing, which is allowed to move from a temporary locking position to a permanent locking position when the engagement of the first connector and the second connector is complete.

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