Fixing structure, substrate unit, and flexible substrate unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fixing structure, a substrate unit, and a flexible substrate unit. A fixing structure is provided which can fix the position of a flexible substrate with respect to a connection substrate in the direction of insertion of the flexible substrate into a cage with a simple configuration. A fixing structure according to an aspect of the present invention includes a housing fixed to a flexible substrate, a locking claw fixed to the housing, a cage fixed to a connection substrate, the housing being capable of being inserted into or removed from the cage in a direction parallel to the surface of the setting contact point of the connection substrate, a locking hole formed in the cage and engaged with the locking claw, and a pushing portion fixed to the housing or the cage and pushing the housing toward the connection substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fixed structure, a substrate unit, and a flexible substrate unit. Background Technology

[0002] For example, such as Figure 39 As shown, the connector 101 disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured such that, with the recess 102a formed on the side of the flexible substrate 102 engaged with the stop piece 103a and the pressing piece 103b of the slider 103, the flexible substrate 102 is inserted along the slider 103 into the flat wire insertion portion of the housing fixed to the connecting substrate, and the pressing plate portion of the slider 103 is inserted between the flexible substrate 102 and the contact member, thereby pushing the flexible substrate 102 toward the contact member and connecting them.

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-5136. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the connector 101 disclosed in Patent Document 1, the slider 103 needs to be configured to fix the position of the flexible substrate 102 in the insertion direction of the flexible substrate 102 into the insertion housing relative to the connecting substrate, which creates a complex structural problem.

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a fixing structure, a substrate unit, and a flexible substrate unit, which can fix the position of the flexible substrate relative to the connecting substrate in the insertion direction of the flexible substrate inserted into the cage with a simple structure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a fixing structure is a fixing structure for a flexible substrate and a connecting substrate. The fixing structure includes: a housing, fixed to the flexible substrate with the contact points of the flexible substrate exposed; locking claws, fixed to the housing; a cage, fixed to the connecting substrate to cover the contact points of the connecting substrate, wherein the housing can be inserted into or removed from the cage in a direction parallel to the surface of the connecting substrate where the contact points are located; a locking hole formed in the cage, and engaging with the locking claw when the housing is inserted into the cage; and a pushing part, fixed to the housing or the cage, and pushing the housing toward the connecting substrate when the housing is inserted into the cage.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a substrate unit includes: the aforementioned fixing structure; a flexible substrate, wherein the housing of the fixing structure is fixed to the flexible substrate; and a connecting substrate, wherein the cage of the fixing structure is fixed to the connecting substrate, wherein a plurality of rows of contact points of the connecting substrate are arranged such that they are spaced apart from each other in the insertion direction in which the housing is inserted into or removed from the cage, and when viewed from the insertion direction in which the housing is inserted into or removed from the cage, the contact points of the connecting substrate are arranged such that they do not coincide with each other in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction in which the housing is inserted into or removed from the cage and the thickness direction of the housing.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a flexible substrate unit is a flexible substrate unit used in the substrate unit as described above. The flexible substrate unit includes: the flexible substrate; a housing fixed to the flexible substrate with the contact points of the flexible substrate exposed, the housing being insertable into or removable from the cage fixed to the connecting substrate in a direction parallel to the surface of the connecting substrate where the contact points are provided; a locking claw fixed to the housing and capable of engaging with a locking hole formed in the cage; and a contact portion that contacts a pushing portion fixed to the housing to push the housing toward the connecting substrate when the housing is inserted into the cage, or a pushing portion fixed to the cage to push the housing toward the connecting substrate when the housing is inserted into the cage, the contact portion being fixed to the housing.

[0009] According to the present invention, a fixing structure, a substrate unit, and a flexible substrate unit are provided, which can fix the position of the flexible substrate relative to the connecting substrate in the insertion direction of the flexible substrate inserted into the cage with a simple structure.

[0010] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0012] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 1 The substrate unit shown.

[0014] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of the first embodiment viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0015] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0016] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0017] Figure 7 This is another perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0019] Figure 9 This is another perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0021] Figure 11 It is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate of the substrate unit of the first embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0023] Figure 13 This is another perspective view showing the elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the first housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0025] Figure 15 This is another perspective view showing the first housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0026] Figure 16 It is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate and the second housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the first embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 16 The flexible substrate and the second housing are shown.

[0028] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0029] Figure 19 It is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit of the second embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the X-axis.

[0031] Figure 21 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing Figure 18 The substrate unit in the middle.

[0032] Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of the second embodiment viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0033] Figure 23 It is a perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0034] Figure 24 This is another perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0035] Figure 25 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the second embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0036] Figure 26 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the second embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0037] Figure 27 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 25 The flexible substrate unit shown.

[0038] Figure 28 This is a perspective view showing the cover and elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0039] Figure 29 It is a perspective view showing the cover and elastically deformable part of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0040] Figure 30 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate and the housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0041] Figure 31 It is a perspective view showing the engagement of the locking claws of the flexible substrate unit with the locking holes of the cage in the substrate unit of the second embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0042] Figure 32 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in the substrate unit of the third embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0043] Figure 33 It is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit of the third embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate.

[0044] Figure 34 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in the substrate unit of the third embodiment, viewed from the front side of the X-axis.

[0045] Figure 35 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 32 The substrate unit shown.

[0046] Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of the third embodiment viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0047] Figure 37 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the third embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0048] Figure 38 This is another perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit of the third embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0049] Figure 39 This is a schematic diagram illustrating patent document 1. Figure 7 (a). Specific Implementation Hereinafter, specific embodiments to which the present invention applies will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Furthermore, for clarity, the following description and drawings will be appropriately simplified. In the following description, a three-dimensional (XYZ) coordinate system is used for clarity.

[0051] <First Embodiment> First, the structure of the substrate unit according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in relation to the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit in this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis front side, before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate. Figure 3 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 1 The substrate unit shown. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0053] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, for example, substrate unit 1 includes: a connecting substrate 2, a flexible substrate 3, and a fixing structure 4. For example, the connecting substrate 2 may be a motherboard on which a central processing unit (CPU) or the like is mounted. The connecting substrate 2 includes: a body 2a, a contact point 2b, and a through hole 2c.

[0054] The substrate material, such as the body 2a made of flame retardant type 4 (FR4), is a flat plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, for example, contact point 2b, which serves as a contact pad, is provided on the surface of the body 2a located on the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0055] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, for example, contact points 2b are arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction with equal intervals between them. That is, a plurality of contact points 2b arranged in the X-axis direction with equal intervals between them form a contact point group 2d, and the contact point group 2d is arranged in the Y-axis direction with equal intervals between them.

[0056] At this time, as Figure 4 As shown, when multiple rows (e.g., two rows) of contact point groups 2d are set in the Y-axis direction, the contact points 2b of the contact point group 2d set on the positive side of the Y-axis and the contact points 2b of the contact point group 2d set on the negative side of the Y-axis can be set to not overlap with each other, that is, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, they are set to be staggered from each other.

[0057] like Figure 4 As shown, the through hole 2c penetrates the body 2a in the Z-axis direction. The through holes 2c are respectively provided on both sides of the contact point group 2d in the X-axis direction. Then, the through holes 2c are respectively provided on both sides of the contact point group 2d in the X-axis direction with a spacing between them in the Y-axis direction.

[0058] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate of the substrate unit in this embodiment, viewed from the negative Z-axis. Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the flexible substrate 3 includes a body 3a and contact points 3b.

[0059] Body 3a is a substrate material, for example, made of a thin film such as polyimide, and in the form of a flat plate substantially parallel to the XY plane, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the body 3a has a substantially rectangular shape. Next, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the portion of the body 3a located on the negative side of the Y-axis has a substantially C-shape, with its positive Z-axis side open.

[0060] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, contact point 3b, serving as a contact pad, is disposed on the surface of the flexible substrate 3 located on the negative side of the Y-axis and the negative side of the Z-axis. Contact point 3b is configured to correspond to contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the fixing structure 4 includes a cage 5 and a housing unit 6. Here, the X-axis direction is the width direction of the substrate unit 1, the Y-axis direction is the insertion and removal direction of the housing unit 6 into or out of the cage 5, and the Z-axis direction corresponds to the thickness direction of the substrate unit 1.

[0062] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 7 This is another perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0063] The cage 5 is, for example, made of metal. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the cage 5 includes: a body 5a, a pushing part 5b, a locking hole 5c, and an insertion part 5d. The body 5a is semi-cylindrical, with its negative side open on the Z-axis and extending in the Y-axis direction.

[0064] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, for example, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the body 5a has a substantially rectangular shape, and the end of the body 5a located on the positive side of the Z-axis can have a substantially cap shape. An opening 5e extending through the body 5a in the Z-axis direction is formed at the end of the body 5a located on the positive side of the Z-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the opening 5e has, for example, a substantially rectangular shape.

[0065] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the actuating part 5b is a flat spring that extends from the end of the body 5a located on the positive side of the Y-axis toward the negative side of the Y-axis, so as to cover the body 5a from the positive side of the Z-axis. When viewed from the Y-axis direction, the actuating part 5b is located substantially at the center of the body 5a in the X-axis direction.

[0066] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, for example, the pushing part 5b includes: a contact part 5f, a folding part 5g, and a connecting part 5h. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the contact part 5f is, for example, substantially C-shaped, with its positive side open on the Z-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the contact part 5f is, for example, substantially rectangular, and the corner of the contact part 5f located on the positive side of the Y-axis can be chamfered.

[0067] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the contact portion 5f is configured to coincide with the open portion 5e of the body 5a and cover the open portion 5e of the body 5a from the positive side of the Z-axis. At this time, the end of the contact portion 5f located on the negative side of the Z-axis protrudes from the open portion 5e of the body 5a toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0068] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the X-axis direction, for example, the folded portion 5g is substantially U-shaped, open on the negative side of the Y-axis, and protrudes from the end of the body 5a located on the positive side of the Y-axis toward the positive side of the Z-axis. Then, the portion of the folded portion 5g protruding from the body 5a toward the positive side of the Z-axis extends on the negative side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the folded portion 5g is, for example, substantially rectangular in shape.

[0069] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the connecting part 5h connects the contact part 5f to the folding part 5g. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the connecting part 5h is, for example, substantially rectangular in shape, and the corner of the connecting part 5h located on the negative side of the Y-axis can be chamfered.

[0070] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, locking holes 5c are formed at the end of the body 5a located on the positive side of the Z-axis. For example, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, locking holes 5c are respectively provided on both sides of the pushing part 5b in the X-axis direction, and are located on the positive side of the Y-axis relative to the opening part 5e. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, locking holes 5c are, for example, substantially rectangular in shape with a longer length in the Y-axis direction.

[0071] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, for example, each insertion portion 5d includes a folded portion 5i and a claw portion 5j. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the folded portion 5i has a substantially U-shape with the inner side of the cage 5 open in the Y-axis direction, and protrudes outward from the corner of the body 5a located on the negative side of the Z-axis in the X-axis direction. The portion of the folded portion 5i protruding outward from the cage 5 extends towards the inner side of the cage 5 in the Y-axis direction.

[0072] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the claw portion 5j extends from the end of the folded portion 5i located inside the cage 5 in the Y-axis direction toward the negative side of the Z-axis. At this time, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the insertion portion 5d has a substantially L-shape. Furthermore, the end of the claw portion 5j located on the negative side of the Z-axis protrudes from the body 5a toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, the cage 5 is configured to cover the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 from the positive side of the Z-axis, and is fixed to the connecting substrate 2 with the claw portion 5j of the cage 5 inserted into the through hole 2c of the connecting substrate 2.

[0074] At this time, for example, when the cage 5 is joined to the connecting substrate 2 by solder, the solder can be inserted into the folded portion 5i of the insertion portion 5d within the cage 5. Therefore, it is possible to avoid or reduce the amount of solder entering the cage 5.

[0075] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 9 This is another perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit in this embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0076] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit in this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate of the substrate unit in this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0077] like Figures 8 to 11 As shown, for example, the housing unit 6 includes: an elastically deformable part 11, a first housing 12, and a second housing 13. Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 13 This is another perspective view, revealing the elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0078] The elastically deformable part 11 is, for example, made of an elastically deformable metal. Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, the elastic deformation part 11 includes: a base 11a, an operating part 11b, a folding part 11c, a connecting part 11d, and a locking claw 11e. The base 11a is, for example, a flat plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane, and is substantially rectangular when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0079] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the operating part 11b is positioned on the positive side of the Z-axis relative to the portion of the base 11a located on the positive side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the operating part 11b has a substantially rectangular shape. The operating part 11b may, for example, be a flat plate shape with a stepped shape, inclined from the positive side of the Z-axis toward the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0080] That is, such as Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the operating part 11b includes a third part 11h that is substantially parallel to the XY plane between a first part 11f that is inclined toward the positive side of the Y-axis and a second part 11g that is inclined toward the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0081] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the protrusions 11i extending in the X-axis direction can be provided in the operation section 11b in the Y-axis direction with equal intervals between them. For example, this structure can prevent the operator's hand from slipping when the operator operates the elastically deformable section 11 through the operation section 11b.

[0082] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, when viewed from the X-axis direction, a substantially U-shaped fold 11c, open on the positive side of the Y-axis, protrudes from the end of the base 11a located on the negative side of the Y-axis toward the positive side of the Z-axis. Then, the portion of the fold 11c protruding toward the positive side of the Z-axis extends from the base 11a toward the positive side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the fold 11c has, for example, a substantially rectangular shape.

[0083] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the connecting part 11d connects the operating part 11b to the folding part 11c. For example, the connecting part 11d includes a first part 11j and a second part 11k.

[0084] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the first part 11j has a flat plate shape that is substantially parallel to the XY plane. The second part 11k has a flat plate shape that is inclined from the positive side of the Z-axis toward the positive side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the connecting part 11d has a substantially rectangular shape, for example.

[0085] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the locking claw 11e protrudes from the first portion 11j of the connecting portion 11d toward the positive side of the Z-axis. The locking claws 11e are respectively provided on both sides of the first portion 11j of the connecting portion 11d in the X-axis direction.

[0086] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, for example, the locking claw 11e is substantially a right-angled triangle shape, and when viewed from the X-axis direction, the end of the locking claw 11e located on the positive side of the Z-axis has a sloping side that is inclined from the negative side of the Z-axis toward the negative side of the Y-axis. Therefore, each locking claw 11e includes an inclined portion 11l at the end of the locking claw 11e located on the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0087] When the operating part 11b is pushed toward the negative side of the Z-axis in the elastic deformation part 11 described above, the folding part 11c elastically deforms and pushes the locking claw 11e toward the negative side of the Z-axis. On the other hand, by releasing the operating part 11b pushed toward the negative side of the Z-axis, the locking claw 11e rises toward the positive side of the Z-axis by the elastic force of the folding part 11c.

[0088] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, a protrusion 11m extending in the Y-axis direction can be formed in the connecting portion 11d. Accordingly, when the operating portion 11b is pushed toward the negative side of the Z-axis, deformation of the connecting portion 11d can be avoided or reduced, thereby allowing the locking claw 11e to be pushed appropriately toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0089] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the first housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis. Figure 15 This is another perspective view showing the first housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0090] The first housing 12 is, for example, made of resin. Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the first housing 12 includes: a base 12a, a side wall portion 12b, a slotted portion 12c, a locking portion 12d, and a pressing portion 12e.

[0091] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, for example, the base 12a has a plate shape that is substantially parallel to the XY plane, and when viewed from the Z-axis direction, it has a substantially T-shape, wherein, in the X-axis direction, the width dimension of the portion of the base 12a located on the positive side of the Y-axis is wider than the width dimension of the portion of the base 12a located on the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0092] like Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, except for the end of the base 12a located on the positive side of the Y-axis, the sidewall portion 12b protrudes from the surrounding portion of the base 12a toward the positive side of the Z-axis. That is, the end of the first housing 12 located on the positive side of the Y-axis is open.

[0093] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the slit portion 12c is formed on the positive side of the sidewall portion 12b and the negative side of the sidewall portion 12b in such a way that the base 11a of the elastically deformable portion 11 can be inserted from the positive side of the Y-axis into the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0094] Therefore, as Figure 15 As shown, the slit portion 12c extends in the Y-axis direction, and the end of the slit portion 12c located on the positive side of the Y-axis reaches the end of the sidewall portion 12b located on the positive side of the Y-axis. Furthermore, in the slit portion 12c, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the inner side of the first housing 12 is open in the X-axis direction.

[0095] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the engaging portion 12d protrudes outward from the positive side of the sidewall portion 12b and the negative side of the sidewall portion 12b in the X-axis direction. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the engaging portion 12d is, for example, substantially rectangular in shape and has thickness in the Z-axis direction.

[0096] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the pressing part 12e is provided on the steps of the positive side of the side wall part 12b and the steps of the negative side of the side wall part 12b, which are formed by the steps of the portion of the side wall part 12b located on the positive side of the X-axis, from the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0097] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, for example, each pressing part 12e includes a first part 12f and a second part 12g. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first part 12f is substantially L-shaped and protrudes toward the positive side of the Z-axis from the step of the portion of the sidewall portion 12b located on the positive side of the X-axis and the step of the portion of the sidewall portion 12b located on the negative side of the X-axis.

[0098] like Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, for example, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the second portion 12g, which is substantially parallel to the XY plane in the shape of a flat plate, has a substantially rectangular shape. The second portion 12g protrudes in the X-axis direction from the end of the first portion 12f located on the positive side of the Z-axis toward the inside of the first housing 12.

[0099] In the first housing 12 described above, as Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the base 11a of the elastic deformation portion 11 is inserted into the slit portion 12c from the positive side of the Y axis toward the negative side of the Y axis at the end in the X-axis direction, so that the elastic deformation portion 11 is disposed in the side wall portion 12b.

[0100] At this time, with the third part 11h of the operation part 11b covering the end in the X-axis direction from the positive side of the Z-axis by the pressing part 12e, as... Figure 3 As shown, the third part 11h of the operating part 11b contacts the pressing part 12e at its end in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the elastic deformation part 11 is fixed to the first housing 12 in a state in which elastic force is stored therein.

[0101] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate and the second housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis. Figure 17 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 16 The flexible substrate and the second housing are shown.

[0102] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the second housing 13 includes: a base 13a, a sidewall portion 13b, and a locking portion 13c. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the base 13a, which is a plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane, has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0103] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, except for the end of the base 13a located on the positive side of the Y-axis, the sidewall portion 13b protrudes from the periphery of the base 13a toward the positive side of the Z-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, a space for the first housing 12 to be disposed is formed within the sidewall portion 13b. Therefore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the space within the sidewall portion 13b has a substantially T-shape corresponding to the shape of the base 12a of the first housing 12.

[0104] like Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, the engaging portion 13c is a cutout formed on the positive side of the sidewall portion 13b along the X-axis and the negative side of the sidewall portion 13b along the X-axis. Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the inner side of the second housing 13 is open in the X-axis direction. The engaging portion 13c has a shape that allows it to engage with the engaging portion 12d of the first housing 12, and when viewed from the Z-axis direction, it has, for example, a substantially rectangular shape.

[0105] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the flexible substrate 3 is embedded and molded within the aforementioned second housing 13. At this time, as... Figure 11 and Figure 17 As shown, with the flexible substrate 3 housed within the base 13a of the second housing 13, the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 protrudes from the end of the second housing 13 located on the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0106] Therefore, when the flexible substrate 3 is embedded and molded within the second housing 13, as... Figure 16 , Figure 17 The hole 13d of the second housing 13 shown is the path through which a fixture for fixing the position of the flexible substrate 3 passes.

[0107] Next, in the second housing 13, with the first housing 12 inserted into the side wall portion 13b of the second housing 13 from the positive side of the Z-axis toward the negative side of the Z-axis, the engaging portion 12d of the first housing 12 engages with the engaged portion 13c of the second housing 13. Accordingly, the first housing 12 is fixed to the second housing 13.

[0108] At this time, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the external shape of the portions of the first housing 12 and the second housing 13 located on the negative side of the Y-axis can be a shape that can be inserted into the cage 5, for example, it can be substantially equal to the internal shape of the cage 5. The aforementioned housing unit 6 and flexible substrate 3 constitute the flexible substrate unit 7.

[0109] Next, the process of fixing the substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3 to the fixed structure 4 and electrically connecting them will be described. First, the operator pushes the operating part 11b of the elastic deformation part 11 of the flexible substrate unit 7 toward the negative side of the Z-axis, and pushes the locking claw 11e toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0110] Next, the operator inserts the flexible substrate unit 7 into the cage 5 from the positive side of the Y-axis toward the negative side of the Y-axis. Then, while further inserting the flexible substrate unit 7 toward the negative side of the Y-axis, the operator releases the push on the operating part 11b of the elastic deformation part 11.

[0111] During the above operations, the locking claw 11e rises toward the positive side of the Z-axis due to the elastic force of the elastic deformation part 11, and the locking claw 11e engages with the locking hole 5c of the cage 5. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 7 relative to the cage 5 in the Y-axis direction is fixed.

[0112] At this time, compared to the case where the locking claw 11e does not include the inclined portion 11l, since each locking claw 11e includes the inclined portion 11l, the locking claw 11e can engage with the locking hole 5c of the cage body 5 by pushing the operating portion 11b slightly.

[0113] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, while the contact portion 5f of the pushing portion 5b of the cage 5 is pushed upward, it contacts the end of the side wall portion 12b of the first housing 12 of the flexible substrate unit 7 located on the negative side of the Y-axis and on the positive side of the Z-axis. The contact portion 5f pushes the housing unit 6 toward the connecting substrate 2 by the elastic force of the pushing portion 5b of the cage 5. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 7 relative to the cage 5 in the Z-axis direction is fixed.

[0114] Therefore, when the outer shape of the portion of the first housing 12 and the second housing 13 located on the negative side of the Y-axis is substantially equal to the inner shape of the cage 5, the housing unit 6 is restricted in the X-axis direction by the cage 5. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 7 relative to the cage 5 in the X-axis direction is fixed.

[0115] Next, the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 and the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 coincide in the Z-axis direction and are electrically connected to each other. Accordingly, the connecting substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3 can be fixed to each other by the fixing structure 4 and can be electrically connected to each other.

[0116] In the above state, when the flexible substrate unit 7 is inserted into the cage 5 facing the negative side of the Y-axis, the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 wipes the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2. Accordingly, the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 and the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 can be appropriately electrically connected to each other.

[0117] Furthermore, when the contact point 2b of the contact point group 2d on the positive side of the Y-axis and the contact point 2b of the contact point group 2d on the negative side of the Y-axis are arranged in such a way that they do not overlap when viewed from the Y-axis direction, it can prevent the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 from contacting other contact points 2b of the connecting substrate 2 that are the connection target.

[0118] Furthermore, as described above, the contact portion 5f of the pushing portion 5b of the cage 5 pushes the housing unit 6 toward the connecting substrate 2, thereby enabling the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 and the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 to be appropriately electrically connected to each other.

[0119] Next, the process of releasing the fixed state of the connecting substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3 will be explained. First, the operator pushes the operating part 11b of the elastic deformation part 11 of the flexible substrate unit 7 toward the negative side of the Z-axis, and pushes the locking claw 11e toward the negative side of the Z-axis, thereby releasing the locking claw 11e of the housing unit 6 and the locking hole 5c of the cage 5 from the engagement state.

[0120] Next, the operator pulls the flexible substrate unit 7 out of the cage 5 from the negative side of the Y-axis toward the positive side of the Y-axis. This releases the fixed state of the connecting substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3. Therefore, for example, if the flexible substrate unit 7 malfunctions, it can be removed from the connecting substrate 2 and easily replaced with a new flexible substrate unit 7.

[0121] As described above, the substrate unit 1, fixing structure 4, and flexible substrate unit 7 according to this embodiment can fix the position of the flexible substrate unit 7 relative to the connecting substrate 2 in the Y-axis direction with a simple structure. In this structure, the locking hole 5c of the cage 5 fixed to the connecting substrate 2 and the locking claw 11e of the elastic deformation portion 11 of the flexible substrate unit 7 engage with each other.

[0122] Furthermore, compared to the case where the connecting substrate 2 is replaced along with the cage 5 when the locking claw 11e is damaged, since the locking claw 11e, which is easily affected by damage, is located on the side of the flexible substrate unit 7, which is cheaper than the connecting substrate 2, the fixing structure 4 can be repaired at low cost by replacing the flexible substrate unit 7.

[0123] Furthermore, the flexible substrate unit 7 is inserted into the cage 5 facing the negative side of the Y-axis, which is substantially parallel to the surface of the connecting substrate 2 located on the positive side of the Z-axis. Accordingly, for example, the height of the working space for connecting the connecting substrate 2 to the flexible substrate 3 in the Z-axis direction can be manufactured to be lower than the case where the flexible substrate unit 7 is manufactured for connection and approaches the connecting substrate 2 from the positive side of the Z-axis towards the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0124] Furthermore, when the flexible substrate unit 7 is inserted into the cage 5, the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 wipes the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2. Accordingly, the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 and the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 can be appropriately electrically connected to each other.

[0125] Furthermore, when the contact points 2b of the contact point group 2d on the positive side of the Y-axis and the contact points 2b of the contact point group 2d on the negative side of the Y-axis are arranged in such a way that they do not overlap when viewed from the Y-axis direction, it can prevent the contact points 3b of the flexible substrate 3 from contacting other contact points 2b of the connecting substrate 2 that are the connection target.

[0126] Furthermore, when the fixed connection substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3 are fixed by the fixed structure 4, the contact portion 5f pushes the flexible substrate unit 7 toward the connection substrate 2 by the elastic force of the pushing portion 5b of the cage body 5.

[0127] Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 7 relative to the connecting substrate 2 in the Z-axis direction can be fixed, and the contact point 2b of the connecting substrate 2 and the contact point 3b of the flexible substrate 3 can be appropriately electrically connected to each other.

[0128] Furthermore, when the elastic deformation part 11 includes the operating part 11b, the locking claw 11e can be easily displaced in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, when the flexible substrate 3 is embedded and molded within the second housing 13, the flexible substrate 3 and the second housing 13 can be easily integrated into one unit.

[0129] <Second Embodiment> Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in relation to the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis. Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit in this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis front side, before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate.

[0130] Figure 20 This shows the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in relation to the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the X-axis. Figure 21 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing Figure 18 The substrate unit in the middle. Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0131] like Figures 18 to 22 As shown, for example, substrate unit 21 includes: a connecting substrate 22, a flexible substrate 23, and a fixing structure 24. The connecting substrate 22 includes: a body 22a, a contact point 22b, and a through hole 22c. Since the connecting substrate 22 has a structure substantially the same as that of the connecting substrate 2 in the first embodiment, a detailed description of the connecting substrate 22 will be omitted.

[0132] like Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, for example, the flexible substrate 23 has a construction substantially equivalent to that of the flexible substrate 3 in the first embodiment, and includes a body 23a and contact points 23b. The fixing structure 24 includes a cage 25 and a housing unit 26.

[0133] Figure 23 This is a perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 24This is another perspective view showing the cage of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0134] The cage 25 is, for example, made of metal. Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the cage 25 includes: a body 25a, a pushing part 25b, a locking hole 25c, a clamping part 25d, and an insertion part 25e. The body 25a is a semi-cylindrical shape with its negative Z-axis open, and extends in the Y-axis direction.

[0135] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, for example, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the body 25a has a substantially rectangular shape, and the opening 25f is formed at the end of the body 25a located on the positive side of the Z-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the opening 25f has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0136] Therefore, as Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the body 25a includes beam portions 25g, located on both sides of the open portion 25f in the Y-axis direction, and, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, has a substantially # shape, for example. The beam portions 25g extend in the X-axis direction.

[0137] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the pushing part 25b is a flat spring that extends in the Y-axis direction from the beam part 25g of the body 25a toward the inside of the body 25a, so as to cover the opening part 25f of the body 25a from the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0138] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, for example, each actuating part 25b includes: a contact part 25h, a folding part 25i, and a connecting part 25j. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the contact part 25h is disposed within the opening part 25f. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the contact part 25h is, for example, substantially C-shaped, with its positive Z-axis side released.

[0139] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, a substantially U-shaped folded portion 25i, open on the inside of the body 25a when viewed from the X-axis direction, protrudes from the beam portion 25g toward the Z-axis. The portion of the folded portion 25i protruding from the beam portion 25g toward the Z-axis extends from the beam portion 25g toward the inside of the body 25a in the Y-axis direction. A connecting portion 25j connects the contact portion 25h to the folded portion 25i.

[0140] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the aforementioned pushing parts 25b are arranged in the X-axis direction with a gap between them, in a state where they face each other in the Y-axis direction. At this time, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the end of the contact part 25h located on the negative side of the Z-axis protrudes from the opening part 25f toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0141] like Figures 22 to 24As shown, locking holes 25c are formed on the sidewall portion of the body 25a located on the positive side of the X-axis and on the sidewall portion of the body 25a located on the negative side of the X-axis. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the locking hole 25c is, for example, provided on the portion of the body 25a located on the positive side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the locking hole 25c has, for example, a substantially rectangular shape that is longer in the Y-axis direction.

[0142] As will be explained later, the clamping part 25d clamps the housing unit 26 inserted into the cage 25 from the X-axis direction. Therefore, as Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the clamping part 25d is composed of clamping pieces 25k arranged in the X-axis direction with equal spacing between them.

[0143] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, for example, the clamping piece 25k is formed by cutting out the side wall portion of the body 25a located on the positive side of the X-axis and the side wall portion of the body 25a located on the negative side of the X-axis. The clamping piece 25k is, for example, a flat spring extending in the Y-axis direction.

[0144] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, for example, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the clamping piece 25k has a substantially C-shaped shape with the outer side of the body 25a open in the X-axis direction. The end of each clamping piece 25k located on the positive side of the Y-axis is fixed to the side wall portion of the body 25a located on the positive side of the X-axis or the side wall portion located on the negative side of the X-axis.

[0145] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the end of each clamping piece 25k located inside the body 25a protrudes from the side wall portion of the body 25a located on the positive side of the X-axis or the side wall portion located on the negative side of the X-axis toward the inside of the body 25a.

[0146] like Figures 22 to 24 As shown, the insertion portion 25e protrudes from the body 25a toward the negative side of the Z-axis in such a way that the insertion portion 25e can be inserted into the through hole 22c of the connecting substrate 22. Here, the insertion portions 25e provided at the four corners of the body 25a have a structure substantially equal to that of the insertion portion 5d of the cage 5 in the first embodiment, and each insertion portion 25e may include a folding portion 25l and a claw portion 25m.

[0147] like Figure 19 As shown, the cage 25 is configured to cover the contact point 22b of the connecting substrate 22 from the positive side of the Z-axis, and the cage 25 is fixed to the connecting substrate 22 when the insertion part 25e of the cage 25 is inserted into the through hole 22c of the connecting substrate 22.

[0148] Figure 25 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 26This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the negative side of the Z-axis. Figure 27 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 25 The flexible substrate unit shown.

[0149] like Figures 25 to 27 As shown, for example, housing unit 26 includes: cover 31, elastic deformation part 32, and housing 33. Figure 28 This is a perspective view showing the cover and elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 29 This is a perspective view showing the cover and elastically deformable portion of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the negative Z-axis.

[0150] The cover 31 is, for example, made of metal. Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, the cover 31 includes: a covering portion 31a, a side wall portion 31b, a first engaging portion 31c, and a second engaging portion 31d. The covering portion 31a is a flat plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane, and, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, it is, for example, substantially rectangular.

[0151] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, when viewed from either the X-axis or Y-axis direction, the sidewall portion 31b has a substantially L-shape. For example, the sidewall portion 31b is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a located on the negative side of the Y-axis, the end of the cover portion 31a located on the positive side of the X-axis, and the end of the cover portion 31a located on the negative side of the X-axis toward the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0152] At this time, as Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, the sidewall portions 31b, which suspend from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction, are arranged such that they are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. When viewed from another direction, either the X-axis or the Y-axis direction, the sidewall portions 31b are, for example, substantially rectangular in shape.

[0153] It should be noted that, such as Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is provided on the positive side of the Y-axis, may include a cutout 31e in the corner portion located on the positive side of the Y-axis and on the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0154] Next, as Figure 28 and Figure 29As shown, the height of the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is located on the positive side of the Y-axis, in the Z-axis direction can be lower than the height of the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is located on the negative side of the Y-axis, in the Z-axis direction.

[0155] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, for example, the first engaging portion 31c has a substantially L-shaped form. The first engaging portion 31c protrudes from the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is provided on the negative side of the Y-axis, toward the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0156] Furthermore, such as Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, the first engaging portion 31c protrudes inward toward the cover 31 from the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is located on the negative side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the X-axis and Y-axis directions, the first engaging portion 31c has a substantially rectangular shape, for example.

[0157] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, each of the second engaging portions 31d is formed by cutting out a side wall portion 31b that hangs from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is provided on the negative side of the Y-axis, and when viewed from the Y-axis direction, it is inclined towards the negative side of the Z-axis toward the inside of the cover 31. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the second engaging portion 31d has a substantially rectangular shape, for example.

[0158] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, elastically deformable portions 32 are respectively provided on both sides of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction. Each elastically deformable portion 32 includes: an operating portion 32a, a connecting portion 32b, and a locking claw 32c. When viewed from the Y-axis direction, the operating portion 32a is, for example, substantially C-shaped, with the inner side of the cover 31 open in the X-axis direction.

[0159] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the operating part 32a has a substantially rectangular shape. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the connecting part 32b has a substantially L-shaped shape. That is, the connecting part 32b extends from the side wall part 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover part 31a in the X-axis direction and is provided on the negative side of the Y-axis, toward the positive side of the Y-axis, and extends toward the outside of the cover 31 in the X-axis direction.

[0160] like Figure 28 and Figure 29As shown, the operating part 32a is fixed to the end of the connecting part 32b located on the positive side of the Y-axis. Next, the connecting part 32b is disposed in the space located on the negative side of the Z-axis relative to the side wall part 31b, which is suspended from the end of the covering part 31a in the X-axis direction and is located on the positive side of the Y-axis. When viewed from the X-axis direction, the connecting part 32b has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0161] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, for example, each locking claw 32c protrudes outward from the portion of the connecting portion 32b located on the negative side of the Y-axis in the X-axis direction toward the outside of the cover 31. The locking claw 32c is substantially a right-angled triangle shape, and when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the end of the locking claw 32c located on the negative side of the Y-axis has a sloping side that is inclined toward the negative side of the Y-axis and toward the inside of the cover 31 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, each locking claw 32c includes an inclined portion 32d at its end located on the negative side of the Y-axis.

[0162] Figure 30 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate and the housing of the fixing structure in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis. Figure 30 As shown, the housing 33 includes a base 33a and a protective unit 33b.

[0163] like Figure 30 As shown, for example, the base 33a is a plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane, and when viewed from the Z-axis direction, it is substantially rectangular. A notch 33c is formed at the end of the base 33a in the X-axis direction.

[0164] like Figure 26 As shown, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the cut 33c is provided on the portion of the base 33a located on the positive side of the Y-axis and the negative side of the Z-axis. The cut 33c extends in the Y-axis direction, and the end of each cut 33c located on the positive side of the Y-axis reaches the end of the base 33a located on the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0165] like Figure 30 As shown, the protection unit 33b includes a first part 33d and a second part 33e. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the first part 33d, which is a plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane, has a substantially rectangular shape.

[0166] like Figure 30 As shown, a first portion 33d, located on the positive side of the Y-axis of the base 33a, is fixed to the end of the base 33a located on the positive side of the Z-axis. The first portion 33d protrudes from the base 33a toward the outside of the base 33a in the X-axis direction.

[0167] like Figure 30As shown, the second portion 33e, which is substantially rectangular in shape when viewed from the Y-axis direction, has a thickness in the Y-axis direction. The second portion 33e, located at the end of the first portion 33d on the positive side of the Y-axis, protrudes outward from the first portion 33d in the X-axis direction.

[0168] At this time, as Figure 26 As shown, the end of the second portion 33e located on the negative side of the Z-axis is set at a height in the Z-axis direction that is substantially the same as the height of the end of the base 33a located on the negative side of the Z-axis. Accordingly, the cutout 33c of the base 33a, the first portion 33d of the protective unit 33b, and the second portion 33e of the protective unit 33b form space S1.

[0169] like Figure 27 As shown, the flexible substrate 23 is embedded and molded within the aforementioned housing 33. At this time, with the flexible substrate 23 housed within the base 33a of the housing 33, the contact point 23b of the flexible substrate 23 protrudes from the end of the housing 33 located on the negative side of the Z-axis.

[0170] Therefore, when the flexible substrate 23 is embedded and molded within the housing 33, as... Figure 30 The hole 33f in the housing 33 shown is the path through which a fixture for fixing the flexible substrate 23 passes.

[0171] like Figure 25 and Figure 27 As shown, the cover 31 is fixed to the housing 33, and the covering portion 31a of the cover 31 covers the base 33a of the housing 33 from the positive side of the Z-axis. At this time, as... Figure 26 As shown, the first engaging portion 31c of the cover 31 engages with the first engaged portion 33g formed on the corner of the housing 33 on the negative side of the Y-axis, and the second engaging portion 31d engages with the second engaged portion 33h formed on the end of the housing 33 in the X-axis direction.

[0172] Furthermore, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the first portion 33d of the protective unit 33b of the housing 33 engages with a cutout 31e formed in the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover portion 31a in the X-axis direction and is located on the positive side of the Y-axis. Accordingly, the cover 31 can be securely fixed to the housing 33.

[0173] Next, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the elastic deformation portion 32 is configured to coincide with the cutout 33c of the housing 33, and the elastic deformation portion 32 can be displaced toward the inside of the housing 33 by means of the cutout 33c formed in the base 33a of the housing 33 in the X-axis direction.

[0174] Furthermore, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, with the bent portion of the connecting portion 32b in the elastic deformation portion 32 disposed within the space S1, the bent portion of the connecting portion 32b in the elastic deformation portion 32 is covered from the positive side of the Z-axis by the first part 33d of the protective unit 33b of the housing 33.

[0175] Furthermore, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the operating part 32a of the elastically deformable part 32 is covered from the positive side of the Y-axis by the second part 33e of the protective unit 33b of the housing 33. The housing unit 26 and the flexible substrate 23 constitute the flexible substrate unit 27.

[0176] Next, the process of fixing and connecting the substrate 22 and the flexible substrate 23 through the fixing structure 24 and electrically connecting them will be described. First, the operator pushes the operating part 32a of the elastic deformation part 32 of the flexible substrate unit 27 toward the inside of the housing 33 in the X-axis direction, and pushes the locking claw 32c toward the inside of the housing 33.

[0177] At this time, since the cut 33c is formed at the base 33a of the housing 33, the elastic deformation part 32 can be appropriately displaced in the X-axis direction toward the inside of the housing 33.

[0178] Next, the operator inserts the flexible substrate unit 27 into the cage 25 from the positive side of the Y-axis toward the negative side of the Y-axis. Then, while further inserting the flexible substrate unit 27 toward the negative side of the Y-axis, the operator releases the push on the operating part 32a of the elastic deformation part 32.

[0179] Accordingly, the locking claw 32c is pulled outward toward the outer side of the housing 33 by the elastic force of the elastic deformation part 32 in the X-axis direction, and the locking claw 32c engages with the locking hole 25c of the cage 25. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 27 relative to the cage 25 in the Y-axis direction is fixed.

[0180] At this time, compared to the case where the locking claw 32c does not include the inclined portion 32d, since the locking claw 32c includes the inclined portion 32d, the locking claw 32c can engage with the locking hole 25c of the cage body 25 by pushing the operating portion 32a slightly.

[0181] Here, Figure 31 This is a perspective view showing the engagement of the locking claws of the flexible substrate unit with the locking holes of the cage in the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis. Figure 31 As shown, the clamping piece 25k of the cage 25 contacts the side wall portion 31b, which is suspended from the end of the cover 31 in the X-axis direction and is provided on the negative side of the Y-axis, and the clamping portion 25d of the cage 25 clamps the housing unit 26 in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 27 relative to the cage 25 in the X-axis direction is fixed.

[0182] In addition, such as Figure 21 As shown, the contact portion 25h of the pushing portion 25b of the cage 25 contacts the covering portion 31a of the cover 31 of the flexible substrate unit 27, and the housing unit 26 is pushed toward the connecting substrate 22 by the elastic force of the pushing portion 25b of the cage 25. Accordingly, the position of the flexible substrate unit 27 relative to the cage 25 in the Z-axis direction is fixed.

[0183] At this time, the contact portion 25h of the pushing portion 25b of the cage 25 contacts the covering portion 31a of the cover 31 that covers the base 33a of the housing 33 in the flexible substrate unit 27, thereby preventing or reducing damage to the base 33a of the housing 33. That is, the covering portion 31a of the cover 31 can function as the contact portion of the pushing portion 25b of the cage 25.

[0184] Furthermore, the contact point 22b of the connecting substrate 22 and the contact point 23b of the flexible substrate 23 coincide in the Z-axis direction and are electrically connected to each other. Accordingly, the connecting substrate 22 and the flexible substrate 23 can be fixed to each other by the fixing structure 24 and can be electrically connected to each other.

[0185] At this time, as described above, the housing unit 26 is pushed toward the connecting substrate 22 by the elastic force of the pushing part 25b of the cage 25, so that the contact point 22b of the connecting substrate 22 and the contact point 23b of the flexible substrate 23 can be appropriately electrically connected to each other.

[0186] Next, the process of releasing the fixed state of the connecting substrate 22 and the flexible substrate 23 will be explained. First, the operator pushes the operating part 32a of the elastic deformation part 32 of the flexible substrate unit 27 toward the inside of the housing 33, and pushes the locking claw 32c toward the inside of the housing 33 in the X-axis direction, thereby releasing the engagement of the locking claw 32c of the housing unit 26 and the locking hole 25c of the cage 25.

[0187] Next, the operator pulls the flexible substrate unit 27 from the negative side of the Y-axis toward the positive side of the Y-axis from the cage 25. This releases the fixed state of the connecting substrate 22 and the flexible substrate 23. Then, for example, if the flexible substrate unit 27 malfunctions, it can be removed from the connecting substrate 22 and easily replaced with a new flexible substrate unit 27.

[0188] As described above, the substrate unit 21, fixing structure 24, and flexible substrate unit 27 according to this embodiment can fix the position of the flexible substrate unit 27 in the Y-axis direction relative to the connecting substrate 22 with a simple structure. In this structure, the locking hole 25c of the cage 25 fixed to the connecting substrate 22 and the locking claw 32c of the elastic deformation portion 32 of the flexible substrate unit 27 engage with each other.

[0189] Furthermore, since the base 33a of the housing 33 is covered by the cover portion 31a of the cover 31, damage to the base 33a of the housing 33 can be avoided or reduced when the contact portion 25h of the push portion 25b of the cage 25 contacts the housing unit 26.

[0190] Furthermore, when the operating portion 32a of the elastic deformation portion 32 is covered from the positive side of the Y-axis through the second part 33e of the protective unit 33b of the housing 33, and the bending portion of the connecting portion 32b of the elastic deformation portion 32 is covered from the positive side of the Z-axis through the first part 33d of the protective unit 33b of the housing 33, it can prevent or reduce the unintended contact of other components with the operating portion 32a or the connecting portion 32b of the elastic deformation portion 32, and release the connection between the cage 25 and the flexible substrate unit 27.

[0191] <Third Embodiment> Figure 32 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in relation to the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the Z-axis. Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing the state of the substrate unit in this embodiment, viewed from the Z-axis front side, before the housing of the flexible substrate unit is inserted and fixed into the cage of the connecting substrate.

[0192] Figure 34 This shows the state in which the flexible substrate unit is fixed to the connecting substrate in relation to the substrate unit of this embodiment, viewed from the front side of the X-axis. Figure 35 This is a YZ cross-sectional view, revealing as follows: Figure 32 The substrate unit shown. Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view showing the substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis.

[0193] like Figures 32 to 36 As shown, for example, substrate unit 41 includes: a connecting substrate 42, a flexible substrate 43, and a fixing structure 44. Since substrate unit 41 has a construction substantially equivalent to substrate unit 21 in the second embodiment, repeated descriptions will be omitted, and the same reference numerals will be used for the same elements.

[0194] like Figures 32 to 36 As shown, for example, the connecting substrate 42 and the flexible substrate 43 have a construction substantially equivalent to that of the connecting substrate 2 and the flexible substrate 3 in the first embodiment. The fixing structure 44 includes a cage 45 and a housing unit 46.

[0195] Although the cage 45 has a construction substantially equivalent to that of the cage 25 in the second embodiment, such as Figures 32 to 36As shown, the difference between the main body 45a and the main body 25a of the cage 25 in the second embodiment is that the opening part 25f and the pushing part 25b provided in the main body 25a of the cage 25 are omitted in the main body 45a.

[0196] Figure 37 This is a perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of this embodiment as viewed from the front side along the Z-axis. Figure 38 This is another perspective view showing the flexible substrate unit of the substrate unit in this embodiment as viewed from the front side of the Z-axis.

[0197] Although housing unit 46 has a construction substantially equivalent to housing unit 26 in the second embodiment, such as Figures 36 to 38 As shown, for example, the difference between the covering portion 47a of the cover 47 and the covering portion 31a of the cover 31 in the second embodiment is that the pushing portion 47b is formed in the covering portion 47a of the cover 47.

[0198] like Figures 36 to 38 As shown, for example, the actuating part 47b is a flat spring formed by cutting out the covering part 47a of the cover 47, and extends in the Y-axis direction. Each actuating part 47b includes a contact part 47c and a connecting part 47d.

[0199] Therefore, the housing 33 according to the second embodiment can use the housing as housing unit 46. For example... Figure 36 As shown, a groove 47e for allowing the pusher 47b to move toward the negative side of the Z-axis is formed in the base 33a of the housing 33.

[0200] like Figure 36 As shown, the groove 47e extends in the Y-axis direction and is arranged such that it is spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction. The width of the groove 47e in the X-axis direction is larger than the width of the push part 47b in the X-axis direction.

[0201] like Figures 36 to 38 As shown, for example, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the contact portion 47c has a substantially C-shape, with its negative Z-axis side open. The end of the contact portion 47c located on the positive Z-axis side protrudes from the cover portion 47a of the cover 47 toward the positive Z-axis side.

[0202] like Figure 35 As shown, for example, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the contact portion 47c is configured to coincide with the groove 47e of the housing 33 and cover the groove 47e of the housing 33 from the positive side of the Z-axis.

[0203] like Figures 36 to 38As shown, the connecting portion 47d extends in the Y-axis direction. The end of the connecting portion 47d located on the positive side of the Y-axis is fixed to the covering portion 47a of the cover 47. The end of the connecting portion 47d located on the negative side of the Y-axis is fixed to the end of the contact portion 47c located on the positive side of the Y-axis.

[0204] In the aforementioned substrate unit 41, when the connecting substrate 42 and the flexible substrate 43 are fixed to each other and electrically connected to each other by the fixing structure 44, the contact portion 47c of the pushing portion 47b of the cover 47 contacts the body 45a of the cage 45, and the housing unit 46 is pushed toward the connecting substrate 42 by the elastic force of the pushing portion 47b of the cover 47, which is essentially the same as the substrate unit 21 in the second embodiment.

[0205] According to the substrate unit 41, fixing structure 44, and flexible substrate unit of this embodiment, the position of the flexible substrate unit relative to the connecting substrate 42 in the Y-axis direction can also be fixed with a simple structure. In this structure, the locking hole 25c of the cage 25 fixed to the connecting substrate 42 and the locking claw 32c of the elastic deformation part 32 of the flexible substrate unit engage with each other.

[0206] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and appropriate changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0207] For example, the shape of the cage in the above embodiments is merely illustrative. It is sufficient that the flexible substrate unit can be inserted into and removed from the cage in a direction substantially perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, and that the cage includes locking holes. The method for fixing the cage to the connecting substrate is not limited.

[0208] For example, the construction of the flexible substrate unit according to the above embodiment is merely illustrative; it is sufficient that the flexible substrate unit includes a locking claw that can engage with the locking hole of the cage when the flexible substrate unit is inserted into the cage.

[0209] For example, the shape of the pushing part according to the above embodiment is merely illustrative. It is sufficient that the pushing part includes a structure in which the pushing part can push the housing unit toward the connecting substrate when the flexible substrate unit is inserted into the cage. For example, the pushing part can be provided in either the cage or the housing unit.

[0210] For example, in the above embodiments, although the cage body includes the clamping part 25d, it can be omitted.

[0211] For example, in the above embodiments, although the locking claw is fixed to the housing in a manner that allows it to operate on both the inside and outside of the housing, the construction of the locking claw is not limited as long as it can engage with the locking hole.

[0212] The first, second, and third embodiments can be combined by those skilled in the art according to their needs.

[0213] As will be apparent from the disclosure herein, embodiments of the invention can be modified in various ways. Such modifications should not be considered contrary to the spirit and scope of the invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A fixing structure for a flexible substrate and a connecting substrate, characterized in that, The fixing structure includes: The housing is fixed to the flexible substrate with the contact points of the flexible substrate exposed; Locking claws are used to secure the housing. A cage body is fixed to the connecting base plate to cover the contact points of the connecting base plate. The housing body can be inserted into the cage body or removed from the cage body in a direction parallel to the surface of the connecting base plate where the contact points are located. A locking hole is formed in the cage body, and engages with the locking claw when the housing is inserted into the cage body; as well as The pushing part is fixed to the housing or the cage, and pushes the housing toward the connecting substrate in the state where the housing is inserted into the cage.

2. The fixing structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cage includes a clamping portion that clamps the housing from an insertion / removal direction perpendicular to the housing being inserted into or removed from the cage, and from the thickness direction of the housing.

3. The fixing structure as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It includes: an elastically deformable part, including the locking claw and an operating part, wherein the locking claw is fixed to the housing in such a way that the locking claw can be operated on the inner and outer sides of the housing, and the operating part operates the locking claw located on the inner side of the housing, and the elastically deformable part is fixed to the housing.

4. The fixing structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The housing includes a protective unit that covers the elastically deformable portion from the side opposite to the direction in which the housing is removed from the cage and from the side where the contact point of the flexible substrate is exposed from the housing.

5. The fixing structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Include: A cover, fixed to the housing, to cover the surface of the housing opposite to the surface of the housing exposed thereon at the contact point of the flexible substrate; and a pushing part, fixed to the cage in contact with the cover in the state where the housing is inserted into the cage. In the cover, the elastic deformation portions respectively disposed on both sides of the shell are fixed in a direction perpendicular to the insertion or removal direction of the shell into or from the cage and the thickness direction of the shell.

6. The fixing structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Include: A cover, fixed to the housing, covers a surface opposite to the surface of the housing where the contact points of the flexible substrate are exposed. The cover includes the pushing portion. In the cover, the elastic deformation portions respectively disposed on both sides of the shell are fixed in a direction perpendicular to the insertion or removal direction of the shell into or from the cage and the thickness direction of the shell.

7. The fixing structure as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flexible substrate is embedded and molded within the housing.

8. A substrate unit, characterized in that, Include: The fixing structure as described in claim 1 or 2; Flexible substrate, wherein the housing of the fixing structure is fixed to the flexible substrate; and A connecting base plate is used, and the cage of the fixing structure is fixed to the connecting base plate, wherein... The contact points of the plurality of rows of the connecting substrate are arranged such that they are spaced apart from each other in the insertion and removal directions of the housing into or out of the cage, and, When viewed from the insertion / removal direction of the housing into or out of the cage, the contact points of the connecting substrate are arranged such that they do not coincide with each other in the direction perpendicular to the insertion / removal direction of the housing into or out of the cage and the thickness direction of the housing.

9. A flexible substrate unit, characterized in that, For use in the substrate unit as described in claim 8, wherein the flexible substrate unit comprises: The flexible substrate; The housing is fixed to the flexible substrate with the contact points of the flexible substrate exposed. The housing can be inserted into or removed from the cage fixed to the connecting substrate in a direction parallel to the surface of the connecting substrate where the contact points are located. The locking claw is fixed to the housing and can engage with the locking hole formed in the cage. as well as The contact portion is fixed to the housing to push the housing toward the connecting substrate when the housing is inserted into the cage, or fixed to the cage to push the housing toward the connecting substrate when the housing is inserted into the cage, wherein the contact portion is fixed to the housing.

Images