power supply connector

Abstract

Power supply connector (1) for supplying power to a motor (M1, M2) provided in an actuator comprising: two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current, in order to apply a current to the motor (M1, M2); two capacitor contact sections (10, 10); a capacitor (4) for applying a current to each of the capacitor contact sections (10, 10); and a housing (2) to which the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current, the two capacitor contact sections (10, 10) and the capacitor (4) are mounted, wherein each of the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current comprises an extension section (31) and a connection section for applying current to the motor (M1, M2), wherein each of the capacitor contact sections (10, 10) protrudes from the extension section (31), wherein the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current and the capacitor (4) are attached to the housing (2) along a direction of extension of the extension section (31), and wherein in a state in which the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing (2), one and another capacitor contact section (10, 10) with a gap between them are arranged in a mounting direction of the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current to the housing (2), and the capacitor (4) is inserted between the two capacitor contact sections (10, 10) in the mounting direction.

Description

Background of the invention; Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply plug or connector for supplying power to a motor provided in an actuator. Description of the related technique

[0002] Traditionally, an exterior mirror for a car is equipped with an actuator for adjusting the angle of the mirror surface, and the actuator has a motor built into it as a drive source.

[0003] In some cases, an exterior mirror or its surroundings are equipped with electronic devices (e.g., a variety of sensors or a camera, etc.). In such a case, noise from the motor described above can interfere with a variety of signals sent to the sensors or camera. As a solution to this noise, a capacitor is provided as a noise filter between a power supply wire for the motor and a ground wire.

[0004] Generally, when wiring a capacitor, the insulation of a power source wire and a ground wire are stripped in the middle, and a capacitor is soldered between the two wires. Consequently, it is possible that the connector is too large and the capacitor could detach from the soldered section.

[0005] Furthermore, since processing (e.g., wrapping an insulating tape around the peeled section) is required to encase the peeled section, the efficiency of work decreases in many work processes.

[0006] On the other hand, patent literature 1 (Japanese patent JP 4 160 573 B2) discloses a current feed connector as a current feed connector structure that does not require any operation (e.g. soldering) at the time of mounting a capacitor.

[0007] The power supply connector includes two terminals for applying motor current, two capacitor terminals, a capacitor for applying current to the respective capacitor terminals, and a housing to which the two terminals for applying motor current, two capacitor contact sections, and the capacitor are mounted.

[0008] US 2009 / 0215293A1 describes a connector that includes a built-in electronic component, enabling easy assembly to achieve a required connection structure, ensuring the reliability of the connection, and preventing the electronic component from slipping, even when used in locations with frequent vibrations.

[0009] JP H04-26 085 A describes a chip-type element that is selectively housed in a recessed section within an insulator block, after three or two terminal elements have been selected as the starting requirements. The chip element is then inserted between the annular end sections of a contactor for elastic mounting. A spring component, installed in a shielded housing, elastically contacts the ground electrode of the chip element. This facilitates installation and replacement of the element. Summary of the invention

[0010] According to patent literature 1, assembling a power supply connector requires mounting two terminals for applying motor current, two capacitor contact sections, and a capacitor in the housing. Consequently, the large number of components and the complex assembly process present a problem, leading to increased costs. This problem is solved by a power supply connector with the features disclosed in claim 1. Further embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0011] The present invention was developed to address these points, and one object of the present invention is to provide a power supply connector that achieves a reduction in the number of components and an improvement in assembleability, thereby realizing a reduction in costs.

[0012] According to the present invention, a current supply connector for supplying current to a motor, provided in an actuator, comprises: two terminals for applying motor current to supply current to the motor; two capacitor contact sections; a capacitor for supplying current to each of the capacitor contact sections; and a housing to which the two terminals for applying motor current, the two capacitor contact sections, and the capacitor are mounted, wherein each of the terminals for applying motor current comprises an extension section and a connecting section for supplying current to the motor, and wherein each of the capacitor contact sections projects from the extension section.

[0013] According to the present invention, it is therefore not necessary to assemble the capacitor contact sections as a separate operation. Current can be applied to the capacitors by simply mounting the respective connections for motor current to the housing. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the number of components and improve assembly, resulting in a reduction in costs.

[0014] Furthermore, in the current supply connector according to the present invention, in a state in which the connections for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing, one and another capacitor contact section with a gap between them are arranged in a direction of mounting the two connections for applying motor current to the housing, and the capacitor is inserted between the two capacitor contact sections.

[0015] According to the present invention, the capacitor can, for example, be easily inserted between the two capacitor contact sections by simply performing an assembly operation from one direction to mount a terminal for applying motor current to the housing, then mounting the capacitor, and then mounting another terminal for applying motor current. Consequently, excellent ease of assembly can be achieved, and a further reduction in costs can be realized.

[0016] Furthermore, in the current supply connector according to the present invention, in a state in which the connections for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing, one and another capacitor contact section with a gap between them are arranged in a direction perpendicular to a mounting direction of the two connections for applying motor current to the housing, and the capacitor is inserted between the two capacitor contact sections.

[0017] According to the present invention, the capacitor can, for example, be inserted between the two capacitor contact sections by mounting the connections for applying motor current to the housing and then mounting the capacitor to be positioned between the two capacitor contact sections. Consequently, excellent ease of assembly can be achieved, and further cost reductions can be realized.

[0018] Furthermore, in the current supply connector according to the present invention, in a state in which the connections for applying motor current are each mounted on the housing, both capacitor contact sections are arranged such that they are axially symmetric to each other with respect to a reference line passing through a center of the capacitor.

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible, for example, to form both capacitor contact sections using the same device or tool and the same method, thus reducing costs. Furthermore, a standardization of machined parts can be achieved to further reduce costs.

[0020] Furthermore, since both capacitor contact sections are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to a reference line passing through the center of the capacitor, the capacitor contact sections can hold the capacitor in suitable equilibrium. Consequently, the capacitor contact sections maintain satisfactory contact with the capacitor.

[0021] Furthermore, the current supply connector according to the present invention further comprises two auxiliary contact sections, each of which projects from the corresponding extension section to the same side as a side to which the contact section projects, and contacts a side face of the capacitor, wherein the reference line passing through a center of the capacitor is parallel to a mounting direction of the terminals for applying motor current to the housing.

[0022] According to the present invention, the auxiliary contact sections contact the capacitor, and this makes it possible to prevent the capacitor from deviating from a predetermined position of the housing.

[0023] Furthermore, in the current supply connector according to the present invention, in the state in which the connections for applying motor current are mounted to the housing, both auxiliary contact sections are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line.

[0024] According to the present invention, it is also possible, for example, for a structure comprising the auxiliary contact sections, to form both connections for applying motor current using the same device or tool and the same method, which results in a reduction of costs.

[0025] Furthermore, since the auxiliary contact sections are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line passing through the center of the capacitor, it is possible to hold (push) the capacitor with excellent balance.

[0026] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a power supply connector that allows for a reduction in the number of components and an improvement in assembly, thereby achieving a reduction in costs. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a power supply connector in a first embodiment according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective exploded view showing the structure of the power supply connector and motors connected to the power supply connector; Fig. 3A is a top view showing a housing, and Fig. 3B is a front view of the same; Fig. 4A to 4E indicate a connection for applying motor current, whereby Fig. 4A is a perspective view, Fig. 4B is a front view, Fig. 4C is a top view, Fig. 4D is a left side view and Fig. 4E is a right side view; Fig. 5A to 5E indicate a different connection for applying motor current, whereby Fig. 5A is a perspective view, Fig. 5B is a front view, Fig. 5C is a top view, Fig. 5D is a left side view and Fig. 5E is a right side view; Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a connection state between the terminals for applying motor current and the capacitor; Fig. Figure 7 is a front view of the power supply connector; Fig. 8 is one along line AA in Fig. 7. Final view taken; Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective exploded view showing the structure of a power supply connector and motors connected to the power supply connector in a second embodiment according to the present invention; Fig. 10A is a top view showing a housing, and Fig. 10B is a front view of the same; Fig. 11A to 11F indicate a connection for applying motor current, where Fig. 11A is a perspective view, Fig. 11B is a front view, Fig. 11C is a top view, Fig. 11D is a left side view, Fig. 11E is a right side view, and Fig. 11F is a view from below; Fig. 12A to 12F indicate a different connection for applying motor current, whereby Fig. 12A is a perspective view, Fig. 12B is a front view, Fig. 12C is a top view, Fig. 12D is a left side view, Fig. 12E is a right side view, and Fig. 12F is a view from below; Fig. Figure 13 is a front view of the power supply connector; Fig. 14 is one along line BB in Fig. 13. Final view taken; and Fig. Figure 15 is a perspective view showing a connection state between the capacitor connection section, the capacitor and the terminals for applying motor current. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0027] With reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments are described below in which the present invention is applied to supplying current to the motor of a mirror surface adjustment mechanism (actuator) of an exterior mirror mounted on the vehicle body of an automobile, or similar. When the description refers to "front / rear, left / right, top / bottom," the following are meant. Fig. The directions shown in Figure 1 are taken as reference directions. Here, "front / back, left / right, up / down" do not necessarily correspond to the "front / back, left / right, up / down" of an exterior mirror mounted on the vehicle body. First embodiment

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a power supply connector (hereinafter referred to as the "connector") comprises terminals 3a to 3d for applying motor current, which are inserted into and fixed in a housing 2 and are essentially L-shaped. The terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d are arranged in parallel at predetermined positions in the housing 2. Electrical wires 38, represented by alternating long and short dashed lines, are crimped onto the front ends of the terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d and are connected to a (not shown) power supply side and a grounding side.

[0029] In the present embodiment, the terminals 3b, 3c, arranged on both end sections of the housing 2 for applying motor current, are connected to the power supply side, and the terminals 3a, 3d, arranged on the center side for applying motor current, are connected to the grounding side. These terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d are electrically connected at their vertical sections (connection sections) 32, which run along the top / bottom direction (the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction and perpendicular to the upper surface of a base section 21 of the housing 2), to a first and second motor M1, M2 (see Fig. 2), which are arranged above the housing 2. The first and second motors M1, M2 are arranged in parallel in a (not shown) mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism.

[0030] In the housing 2, capacitors 4 are connected between the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b and between the terminals for applying motor current 3c, 3d by capacitor contact sections 10, 10 (see Fig. 8) In this way, the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are electrically connected to each other by the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 and the capacitor 4. Likewise, the terminals for applying motor current 3c, 3d on the other side are electrically connected by the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 and the capacitor. That is, the arrangement is made so that noise generated by the first and second motors M1, M2 of the mirror surface adjustment mechanism is satisfactorily removed.

[0031] In the present embodiment, these terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d and the capacitors 4 are designed, as described later, to be mounted along one direction through openings 22a, each of which is formed on the front surface side of the terminal housing sections 22.

[0032] The (not shown) mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism is provided with a bracket, on one side of which a mirror surface is arranged. For example, the mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the angle of the bracket about the upper / lower axis by the first motor M1, and the angle of the bracket about the left / right axis by the second motor M2. On the other side of the bracket, a connection section for attaching a connector 1 is provided in the present embodiment. This connection section is provided with connection sections into which the terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d are inserted and connected, the connection sections having a recessed shape where the connector 1 is attached and held.

[0033] Connector 1 is explained in detail below.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3A, the housing 2 comprises a base section 21 with a plate shape and terminal housing sections 22, 22 which are in a left / right pair and are provided on the upper surface of the base section 21.

[0035] A rim section 2 is provided standing on the left and right side end sections and the rear end section. Front and rear two pins 24, 24 are provided, which stand on the left / right middle sections of the base section 21. The pins 24, 24 can each be inserted into holes (not shown) provided on the connecting section of the mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism. The pins 24, 24 act as position limiters to define the position of the connector 1 with respect to the connection position. The connecting section of the mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism is provided with locking hooks (not shown) capable of engaging with the left / right side sections or similar of the base section 21, and the base section 21 is fixed to the connecting section by these locking hooks to prevent it from falling off.

[0036] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, a hook 25 is formed on the lower surface of the base section 21 to hook electrical wires 38.

[0037] Since the terminal housing sections 22, 22 left and right have similar structures, a terminal housing section 22 (on the right side) is used where the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are located (see Fig. 2), described below.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the terminal housing section 22 has a box shape, which is provided with an opening 22a on the front surface side, and comprises a housing section 221 which is substantially U-shaped in a front view, and a cover section 222 which is arranged facing the surface of the housing section 221.

[0039] The housing section 221 comprises a left wall section 223, a right wall section 224, and a recessed groove section 225 formed between the left wall section 223 and the right wall section 224. Cutout sections 22b, 22c, extending in the front / back direction, are formed between the left wall section 223 and the recessed groove section 225 and between the right wall section 224 and the recessed groove section 225. The lower edges 31d (see Fig. 4A to 4E and Fig. 5A to 5E) of the extension sections 31 are inserted into the cutout sections 22b, 22c if the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b are accommodated in the connection housing section 22.

[0040] A groove 226 with an angled shape extending in the front / back direction is formed on the upper surface of the recessed groove section 225.

[0041] The cover section 222 extends towards the front surface in a position where one end of it is held by the edge section 23 against the rear end section of the base section 21, and is arranged in the upper surface opening of the housing section 221. A gap 222a is formed between the cover section 222 and the left wall section 223, and a gap 222b is formed between the cover section 222 and the right wall section 224. The upright sections 32, 33 of the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are each inserted into the gaps 222a, 222b.

[0042] An angled groove 227 is formed on the lower surface of the cover section 222 opposite the groove 226 of the recessed groove section 225. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the capacitor 4 is held in the spatial section surrounded by these slots 226, 227 with a gap along the top / bottom direction.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the capacitor 4 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and is housed in the space section in a state where its longitudinal direction runs along the direction of extension of the slots 226, 227. That is, the slots 226, 227 are opposite each other in the top / bottom direction with a gap that corresponds to the size of the capacitor 4 along its shorter length.

[0044] The two terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are made of plate-shaped conductive material and are each formed with the extension sections 31 and the upright sections 32. The capacitor contact sections 10 are each integrally formed with the extension sections 31, 31 and project from the extension sections 31, 31. Alternatively, capacitor contact sections 10 can be made of a different material and mounted to the extension sections 31.

[0045] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 project along the direction in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are opposite each other. The capacitor contact sections 10, 10 are arranged in the front / back direction with a gap between them, so that they surround the reference line L1, which passes through the center O of the capacitor 4. That is, in a state in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are arranged in the housing 2, the two capacitor contact sections 10, 10 are arranged such that they are axially symmetrical with respect to the reference line L1, which passes through the center O of the capacitor 4, where the reference line L1 is a line (a line parallel to the extension sections 31) that is perpendicular to the upper surface of the base section 21 and passes through the center O of the capacitor 4 (see Figure 6). Fig. 7) Consequently, there is a relationship that if a capacitor contact section 10 is rotated 180 degrees around the axis of symmetry (reference line L1) (in the direction shown in Fig. 8 shown top view) would be rotated, in which one capacitor contact section 10 would overlap another capacitor contact section 10.

[0046] The capacitor contact sections 10, 10 are made from a plate-shaped piece formed in a size to be inserted between the recessed groove section 225 of the terminal housing 22 and the cover section 222, its arcuate projecting section 10a, 10a contacting the side faces of the capacitor 4 (see Fig. 8).

[0047] Such a capacitor contact section 10 can be formed, for example, by punching the extension section 31 along the longitudinal direction of the extension section 31 and bending a piece corresponding to a cutout 31a formed by punching, so that the piece protrudes.

[0048] In the present embodiment, different punching directions are applied to the two terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b, so that the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 are arranged such that they are axially symmetric to each other with respect to the reference line L1.

[0049] That is, as in Fig. As shown in Figures 4A to 4E, for the connection to apply motor current 3a, the punching is carried out such that the front section side of the extension section 31 is cut and bent to protrude to the right side, with the rear section forming the root end of the bend. As further shown in Fig. As shown in 5A to 5E, for the connection to apply motor current 3b, the punching is carried out such that the rear section side of the extension section 31 is cut and bent so that it protrudes to the left side, with the front section being the root end of the bend.

[0050] Consequently, the capacitor contact sections 4 are in a state in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are arranged in the housing 2, with a gap between them that allows the capacitor 4 to be inserted along the front / back direction.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in 7, the lower boundary section 31d (see Fig. 4A to 4E) of the extension section 31 of the connection for applying motor current 3a can be inserted into the cutout section 22b of the housing section 221 of the connection housing section 22. Likewise, the lower edge section 31d (see Fig. 5A to 5E) of the extension section 31 of the connection for applying motor current 3b into the cutout section 22c of the housing section 221.

[0052] Furthermore, at the front end section of the extension section 31, an insertion section (not shown) for inserting the electrical wire 38 and a press-fit section into which the exposed conductive section of the wire is pressed are provided.

[0053] The method for connecting the electrical wires 38 to the terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d is not limited to press fits. A method that enables the electrical connection, such as pressure contacting, soldering or crimping, can be used appropriately.

[0054] Furthermore, a (not shown) web section, which acts as a leg section, can be provided at the rear end section of the extension section 31 to increase the stability of the connections for applying motor current 3a to 3d.

[0055] At the rear end of the extension section 31, an engagement section is arranged, into which a hook section (not shown), located inside the terminal housing section 22, can be engaged. The connections for applying motor current 3a to 3d are fixed at predetermined positions in the terminal housing section 22 by this engagement.

[0056] The assembly of the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b and the capacitor 4 on the terminal housing section 22 is described below.

[0057] First, the connection for applying motor current 3a is mounted in the terminal housing section 22. During assembly, the connection for applying motor current 3a is moved close to the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22 in a state where the standing section 32 is opposite the opening 22a; while the standing section 32 is moved in this way to be inserted into the gap 222a, the position of the lower edge section 31d of the extension section 31 is adjusted to the position of the cutout section 22b and inserted into the cutout section 22b; and furthermore, the capacitor contact section 10 is inserted into the gap between the recessed groove section 225 and the cover section 222.

[0058] Then the connection for applying motor current 3a is pushed along the gap 222a and the cutout section 22b. In this case, the connection for applying motor current 3a is pushed in until it reaches the position where it comes into contact with a (not shown) contact section inside the terminal housing section 22.

[0059] The capacitor 4 is then inserted into the terminal housing section 22 along the slots 226, 227.

[0060] Then another connection for applying motor current 3b is installed. While the stationary section 32 is being moved to be inserted into the gap 222b, the position of the lower edge 11d of the extension section 31 is adjusted to the position of the cutout section 22c and inserted, and furthermore the capacitor contact section 10 is inserted between the recessed groove 225 and the cover section 222.

[0061] The connection for applying motor current 3b is then pushed in along the gap 222b and the cutout section 22c. This pushes the capacitor 4 in along the front / back direction through the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 of the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b, and the capacitor 4 is electrically connected (see Fig. 6).

[0062] The connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b are fixed at predetermined positions in the terminal housing section 22 by engaging (not shown) hook sections provided inside the terminal housing section 22 in (not shown) engagement sections provided on the extension sections 31, 31, so that the state in which the capacitor 4 is inserted between the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 is satisfactorily maintained.

[0063] As described above, in the connector 1 of the present embodiment, the capacitor contact sections 10 are located at the terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d. Consequently, it is not necessary to mount capacitor contact sections, and current can be applied to the capacitor 4 by the simple operation of mounting the respective terminals for applying motor current 3a to 3d to the housing 2.

[0064] Consequently, it is possible to achieve a reduction in the number of components and an improvement in assembly, which results in a reduction in costs.

[0065] Furthermore, the capacitor 4 can be easily inserted between the two capacitor contact sections 10 by performing only one assembly operation from one direction. Consequently, excellent ease of assembly can be achieved and a further reduction in costs can be realized.

[0066] Furthermore, since in a state in which the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b (3c, 3d) are each mounted on the terminal housing section 22, the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line L1 which passes through the center of the capacitor 4, both capacitor contact sections 10, 10 can be formed, for example, by the same device or tool and with the same method, which realizes a reduction in costs.

[0067] Furthermore, the capacitor contact sections 10, 10 can maintain a suitable equilibrium with the capacitor 4. Both capacitor contact sections 10, 10 can therefore maintain satisfactory contact with the capacitor 4.

[0068] Furthermore, the left-hand connection for applying motor current 3a can be formed by partially cutting and bending a piece so that it protrudes onto the right side of the extension section 31, and the right-hand connection for applying motor current 3b can be formed by partially cutting and bending a piece so that it protrudes onto the left side of the extension section 31. Consequently, the standardization of machined parts for the connections for applying motor current 3a to 3d can be achieved, thereby reducing costs. Second embodiment

[0069] With reference to Fig. Figures 9 to 15 describe a second embodiment according to the present invention. In the figures referred to, an element common to one in the first embodiment is assigned the same symbol, and the description of the element is omitted.

[0070] The present embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that, in a state in which two terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are arranged in the housing 2, capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged so that they are aligned with respect to a reference line L2 (a line parallel to the upper surface of the base section 21 (see Figure 1)). Fig. 15), which passes through the center O of capacitor 4), are axially symmetric to each other. Consequently, the two capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged parallel along the left / right direction perpendicular to the reference line L2 in order to insert the capacitor 4 along the left / right direction.

[0071] Since the terminal housing sections 22, 22 on the left and right have similar structures, in the present embodiment a terminal housing section 22 (on the right side) is also provided, where the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b (see Fig. 13) are arranged, as described below.

[0072] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10B, the terminal housing section 22 has a box shape, which is provided with an opening 22a on the front surface side, and comprises a housing section 221 which in a front view has essentially a U shape, and a cover section 222 which is arranged opposite the surface of the housing section 221.

[0073] A lower section 221a of the housing section 221 includes a projection section 228 extending along the front / rear direction, a leg section 229 extending along the front / rear direction, and a cutout section 22b.

[0074] The projecting section 228 acts as an insertion guide for the extension section 31 when the connection for applying motor current 3b is located in the terminal housing section 22. Furthermore, an auxiliary contact section 33, described later, contacts the front surface of the projecting section 228.

[0075] Leg section 229 acts as an insertion guide for the capacitor 4 when the capacitor 4 is placed in the terminal housing section 22. When the capacitor 4 is moved to be placed, an end face (short face) can be moved along leg 229 in the longitudinal direction of the capacitor 4.

[0076] When the connection for applying motor current 3a is moved to be accommodated in the terminal housing section 22, a lower edge section 31d (see Fig. 11a) of extension section 31 is inserted into excerpt section 22b.

[0077] On the lower surface of the cover section 222, a projection section 228, similar to the projection section 228 of the lower section 221a of the housing section 221, and a leg 229 are formed. The projection sections 228 and the leg 229 of the cover section 222 and the lower section 221a are formed at respective positions that are symmetrical to each other with respect to the reference line L2 described above (see Fig. 9, Fig. 14).

[0078] The projecting section 228 of the cover section 222 acts as an insertion guide for the extension section 31 when the connection for applying motor current 3a is moved to be housed in the terminal housing section 22. Furthermore, the auxiliary contact section 33, described later, contacts the front surface of the projecting section 228.

[0079] When the capacitor 4 is moved to be accommodated in the terminal housing section 22, another end surface (another short surface) can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the capacitor 4 along leg 229.

[0080] That is, by the leg 229 of the lower section 221a of the housing section 221 and the leg 229 of the cover section 222, the capacitor 4 is held between the lower section 221a and the cover section 222, the longitudinal direction of which is perpendicular to the line L2 described above. Consequently, the lower section 221a and the cover section 222 are opposite each other along the top / bottom direction with a gap that corresponds to the size of the short longitudinal direction of the capacitor 4.

[0081] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, contact sections 26, 26 are provided inside the terminal housing section 22 to define the positions of the rear end positions of the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b, which are inserted through the opening 22a. Furthermore, projections are provided on the lower section 221a and on the inner surface of the cover section 222 (not shown) to press against the rear of the capacitor 4.

[0082] The two terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are made of a plate-shaped conductive material and are each provided with extension sections 31 and upright sections 32. The capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are each integrally formed with the extension sections 31, 31 and project from them. Alternatively, the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 can be made of a different material and mounted to the extension sections 31.

[0083] As in Fig. 9 and Fig. As shown in Figures 15 and similar figures, the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 project along the direction in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are opposite each other. The capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to the reference line L2, which passes through the center O of the capacitor 4. That is, in the state in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are arranged in the housing 2, the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to the reference line L2, which passes through the center O of the capacitor 4, where the reference line L2 is a line (a line parallel to the extension section 31) that is parallel to the upper surface of the base section 21 and passes through the center O of the capacitor 4 (see Figure 15). Fig. 15). Consequently, there is a relationship that if a capacitor contact section 40 (in the in Fig. 13 front view shown) would be rotated 180 degrees around the axis of symmetry (reference line L2), so that one capacitor contact section 40 would overlap another capacitor contact section 40.

[0084] The capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are made from a plate-shaped piece which, in plan view, has essentially a bent shape and is sized to be inserted between the housing section 221 of the terminal housing section 22 and the cover section 222, with the respective arcuate projection sections 41, 41 of the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 contacting the side faces (both short faces) of the capacitor 4. Such a capacitor contact section 40 can be formed, for example, by punching the extension section 31 along the longitudinal direction of the extension section 31 and bending a piece corresponding to a cutout 31 formed by punching, so that the piece projects.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the punching direction for the two connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b is made common, so that the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line L2.

[0086] That is, as in Fig. As shown in Figures 11A to 12E, the front section side of the extension section 31 is cut and bent to project to the right side, with the rear side of the extension section 31 being the root of the bend.

[0087] Consequently, the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 are arranged in a state in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are arranged in the housing 2, with a gap between them that allows the capacitor 4 to be inserted along the left / right direction.

[0088] As in Fig. As shown in 13, the lower boundary section 31d (see Fig. 11A to 11D) of the extension section 31 of the connection for applying motor current 3a can be inserted into the cutout section 22b of the housing section 221 of the connection housing section 22. Likewise, the lower edge section 31d (see Fig. 12A to 12E) of the extension section 31 of the connection for applying motor current 3b are inserted into a slot section 22c1 which is formed between the projection section 228 of the housing section 221 and the right wall section 224.

[0089] As in Fig. 11C and Fig. As shown in Figure 12C, the auxiliary contact section 33, in a top view, has essentially a rectangular shape and projects integrally from the extension section 31 on the same side as the capacitor contact section 40. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the auxiliary contact section 33 of the terminal for applying motor current 3a is formed by cutting and bending a part of an upper edge of the extension section 31, wherein the upper edge 31b and the upper surface of the auxiliary contact section 33 are substantially on the same plane (see Figure 15). Fig. 11B, Fig. 11D and Fig. 11E). Furthermore, the auxiliary contact section 33 of the terminal for applying motor current 3b is formed by cutting and bending a part of a lower edge 31d of the extension section 31, wherein the lower edge 31d and the lower surface of the auxiliary contact section 33 are substantially on the same plane (see Fig. 12B, Fig. 12D and Fig. 12E).

[0090] As in Fig. 13 and Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the auxiliary contact sections 33 contact the front surfaces of the housing section 221 and the projecting section 228 of the cover section 222 and the side surface (long surface (front surface)) of the capacitor 4 in a state in which the terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b are mounted to the terminal housing section 22.

[0091] The assembly of the connections for applying motor current 3a, 3b and the capacitor 4 on the terminal housing section 22 is described below.

[0092] First, the capacitor 4 is inserted through the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22 into the gap between the leg 229 of the lower section 221a of the housing section 221 and the leg 229 of the cover section 222.

[0093] Next, a terminal for applying motor current 3a (on the left side) is mounted through the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22. During assembly, the terminal for applying motor current 3a is moved close to the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22 in a state where the upright section 32 is opposite the opening 22a; while the upright section 32 is moved to be inserted into the gap 222a, the position of the lower edge section 11d of the extension section 31 is adjusted to the position of the cutout section 22b and inserted into the cutout section 22b; and furthermore, the capacitor contact section 40 is inserted into the gap between the housing section 221 and the projecting section 228 of the cover section 222. Consequently, the capacitor contact section 40 of the terminal for applying motor current 3a contacts the left short surface of the capacitor 4.

[0094] Then, through the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22, another (the right side) of the terminal for applying motor current 3b is mounted. During mounting, the terminal for applying motor current 3b is moved close to the opening 22a of the terminal housing section 22 in a state where the upright section 32 is opposite the opening 22a; while the upright section 32 is moved in this way to be inserted into the gap 222b, the position of the lower edge section 11d of the extension section 31 is adjusted to the position of the cutout section 22c and inserted into the cutout section 22c; and furthermore, the capacitor contact section 40 is inserted into the gap between the projecting section 228 of the housing section 221 and the cover section 222. Consequently, the capacitor contact section 40 of the terminal for applying motor current 3b contacts the right short face of the capacitor 4.Consequently, the capacitor 4 is inserted between the capacitor contact sections 40, 40, and the capacitor contact sections 40, 40 and the capacitor 4 are electrically connected (see . Fig. 15).

[0095] Furthermore, the auxiliary contact sections 33, 33 of the left and right terminals for applying motor current 3a, 3b contact the side surface (long surface (front surface)) of the capacitor 4. Consequently, the side surface of the capacitor 4 is pressed by the auxiliary contact sections 33, 33, and the capacitor 4 is prevented from deviating from a predetermined position of the terminal housing section 22 (from falling off the opening 22a).

[0096] In addition to the advantages described in the first embodiment, for the connector 1 described above in the present embodiment, both capacitor contact sections 40, 40 can also be formed, for example, by the same device or the same tool using the same method in a structure with the auxiliary contact sections 33, which results in a reduction in costs.

[0097] Furthermore, the auxiliary contact sections 33 can prevent the capacitor 4 from deviating from a predetermined position in the housing 2.

[0098] Since the auxiliary contact sections 33 are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line L2, which passes through the center O of the capacitor 4, the capacitor 4 can be held (pressed) in a suitable equilibrium.

[0099] In the first embodiment, the arrangement is such that the capacitor contact section 10 of the connection for applying motor current 3a projects from the rear section side of the extension section 31 to the right side, and the capacitor contact section 10 of the connection for applying motor current 3b projects from the front section side of the extension section 31 to the left side. However, without being limited thereto, an arrangement can be made such that the capacitor contact section 10 of the connection for applying motor current 3a projects from the front section side of the extension section 31 to the right side, and the capacitor contact section 10 of the connection for applying motor current 3b projects from the rear section side of the extension section 31 to the left side.

[0100] Although the capacitor contact sections 10, 40, which are formed by stamping, have been described in the first and second embodiments, capacitor contact sections 10, 40 can, without being limited thereto, each be integrally extended by the end sections of the extension sections 31, etc.

[0101] Although in the second embodiment auxiliary contact sections 33 have been described in a rectangular shape in a top view, without being limited thereto, it is possible to use a variety of types of auxiliary contact sections 33 which contact the side surface (long surface (front surface)) of the capacitor 4 from the side of the opening 22a and push the capacitor 4 out of the mounting direction.

[0102] Although the capacitor contact sections 10, 40, which are arranged axially symmetrically to each other, have been further described, without being limited thereto, capacitor contact sections 10, 40 can also have different shapes from each other in order to insert the capacitor 4.

[0103] Although the preceding embodiments have further described, without being limited to, power supply connectors applied to the first and second motors M1, M2 of a mirror surface angle adjustment mechanism, the present invention can also be used for power supply connectors for, for example, other actuators, devices or the like that are mounted on an automobile (vehicle).

Claims

[1] Power supply connector (1) for supplying power to a motor (M1, M2) provided in an actuator comprising: two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current, in order to apply a current to the motor (M1, M2); two capacitor contact sections (10, 10); a capacitor (4) for applying a current to each of the capacitor contact sections (10, 10); and a housing (2) to which the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current, the two capacitor contact sections (10, 10) and the capacitor (4) are mounted, wherein each of the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current comprises an extension section (31) and a connection section for applying current to the motor (M1, M2), wherein each of the capacitor contact sections (10, 10) protrudes from the extension section (31), wherein the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current and the capacitor (4) are attached to the housing (2) along a direction of extension of the extension section (31), and wherein in a state in which the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing (2), one and another capacitor contact section (10, 10) with a gap between them are arranged in a mounting direction of the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current to the housing (2), and the capacitor (4) is inserted between the two capacitor contact sections (10, 10) in the mounting direction. [2] Power supply connector (1) according to claim 1, wherein in a state in which the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing (2), one and a further capacitor contact section with a gap between them are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction of the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current to the housing (2), and the capacitor (4) is inserted between the two capacitor contact sections (10, 10). [3] Power supply connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in a state in which the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current are each mounted on the housing (2), both capacitor contact sections (10, 10) are arranged such that they are axially symmetric to each other with respect to a reference line passing through a center (O) of the capacitor (4). [4] Power supply connector (1) according to claim 3, further comprising: two auxiliary contact sections (33, 33), each of which projects from the corresponding extension section (31) to the same side as a side to which the contact section (3a, 3b) projects, and contacts a side surface of the capacitor (4), wherein the reference line passing through a center (O) of the capacitor (4) is parallel to the mounting direction of the two terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current to the housing (2). [5] Power supply connector (1) according to claim 4, wherein in the state in which the terminals (3a, 3b) for applying motor current are each mounted to the housing (2), both auxiliary contact sections (33, 33) are arranged axially symmetrically to each other with respect to the reference line.

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