Terminal board

Abstract

To provide a terminal board which can suppress short-circuit between screw members with more certainty when removing or attaching the screw member.SOLUTION: A terminal board 1 includes a first cover 6 and a second cover 7 attached to a housing body 5 to be rotatable and be relatively movable in one direction. The first cover 6 can relatively move in one direction between a lid opening regulation position in which the first cover is engaged with a first regulation protrusion 5531 formed in one side of the one direction and a lid openable position in which the engagement with the first regulation protrusion 5531 is cancelled. The second cover 7, however, can relatively move in one direction between a lid opening regulation position in which the second cover is engaged with a second regulation protrusion 5522 formed in the other direction of the one direction and a lid openable position in which the engagement with the second regulation protrusion 5522 is cancelled. When one of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 is relatively moved to the lid openable position, the other cover is in the lid opening regulation position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal block. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional terminal block of this type is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a terminal block including a terminal block main body, a plurality of terminal fittings attached to the terminal block main body, and bolts and nuts (a plurality of screw members) for connecting and fixing electric wires (external connection terminals) to each of the plurality of terminal fittings.

[0003] Furthermore, in Patent Document 1, the terminal block is provided with a cover that is removably attached to the terminal block body for covering the screw members, and by attaching this cover to the terminal block body, it is possible to prevent external contact with each screw member. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-185892 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the above conventional technology, the multiple screw members are covered with one cover, and the cover is removed from the terminal block body to attach and detach the electric wires (external connection terminals) using the individual screw members. Therefore, when the cover is removed from the terminal block body, tools such as sockets can be inserted into each screw member at the same time. In this way, in the above conventional technology, when the cover is removed from the terminal block body, simultaneous contact with the multiple screw members is possible.

[0006] Therefore, when attaching or detaching the screw members, the worker needs to be careful not to cause a short circuit between the screw members.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the problems inherent in the conventional art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a terminal block capable of more reliably preventing short circuits between screw members when attaching or detaching the screw members. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A terminal block according to an aspect of the present invention includes a housing, a first terminal fitting held in the housing, a second terminal fitting held in the housing, a first screw member electrically connected to a first connection portion of the first terminal fitting, and a second screw member electrically connected to a second connection portion of the second terminal fitting, the housing includes a housing main body formed so that a first screw member accommodating portion in which the first screw member is accommodated and a second screw member accommodating portion in which the second screw member is accommodated are aligned, a first cover covering the first screw member accommodating portion in an openable and closable manner, and a second cover covering the second screw member accommodating portion in an openable and closable manner, the first cover is attached to the housing main body in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a first rotation axis extending in one direction, the second cover is attached to the housing main body in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a second rotation axis extending in the one direction, and the first cover is engaged with a first restricting protrusion formed on one side of the housing main body in the one direction. The first cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which it can move relative to the housing body in the one direction between an opening restriction position where the opening operation of the first cover is restricted, and an opening possible position where the engagement with the first restricting protrusion is released and the first cover can be opened; the second cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which it can move relative to the housing body in the one direction between an opening restriction position where the opening operation of the second cover is restricted by engaging with a second restricting protrusion formed on the other side of the housing body in the one direction, and an opening possible position where the engagement with the second restricting protrusion is released and the second cover can be opened; when either the first cover or the second cover is moved relative to the opening possible position, the other cover is in the opening restriction position; and when one cover is moved relative to the other cover from the opening restriction position to the opening possible position and rotated from the opening possible position to the open position, the one cover rotates in contact with the other cover. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a terminal block capable of more reliably preventing short circuits between screw members when the screw members are attached or detached. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, and is a perspective view of the example of the terminal block seen from one direction. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, the example of the terminal block being viewed from another direction. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, and is a perspective view seen from one direction in a state where the terminal block is disassembled into a housing, a first terminal fitting, a second terminal fitting, a first screw member, and a second screw member. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a housing according to one embodiment, in which a housing main body, a first cover, and a second cover are disassembled and viewed from one direction. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of a housing according to one embodiment, in which the housing body, the first cover, and the second cover are disassembled and viewed from another direction. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a housing main body according to one embodiment, in which the example of the housing main body is disassembled into individual components, as viewed from one direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of a housing main body according to one embodiment, in which the example of the housing main body is disassembled into individual components, as viewed from another direction. [Figure 8] 1 is a front view showing an example of a terminal metal holding housing included in an example of a housing main body according to an embodiment; FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a plan view showing an example of a terminal metal fitting holding housing included in an example of a housing main body according to an embodiment; FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, in which the terminal block is disassembled into a terminal block main body and an insulating cover member, as viewed from one direction. [Figure 11]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a terminal block main body according to one embodiment, and is a perspective view seen from one direction with a retaining cover and a bolt removed. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal block main body according to an embodiment, in which a bolt is removed and the terminal block main body is viewed from one direction. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an example of an insulating cover member according to an embodiment, in which the first cover and the second cover are positioned in an opening restriction position. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of an insulating cover member according to an embodiment, in which a first cover is located in an openable position. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an example of an insulating cover member according to an embodiment, in which the second cover is located in an openable position. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a side view showing an example of an insulating cover member according to an embodiment, in which the first cover and the second cover are positioned in an opening restriction position. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing an example of an insulating cover member according to one embodiment, in which the first rotation restricting protrusion and the second rotation restricting protrusion are fitted into the bearing portions of the first cover and the second cover. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of opening an example of a second cover according to an embodiment, showing a state in which a second inclined surface of the second cover comes into contact with a second restricting protrusion. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an operation for opening an example of a second cover according to an embodiment, showing a state in which the second cover has moved to an openable position. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of opening an example of a second cover according to an embodiment, showing an initial rotation state of the second cover. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a second cover according to an embodiment, in the state shown in FIG. 19 . [Figure 22] 22 is a diagram showing a contact portion between the first cover and the second cover in the state shown in FIG. 21. FIG. [Diagram 23] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a second cover according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which the second cover is positioned halfway between the closed position and the open position. [Figure 24] 24 is a diagram showing a contact portion between the first cover and the second cover in the state shown in FIG. 23. FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a second cover according to an embodiment, in which the second cover is located in an open position. [Figure 26] 26 is a diagram showing a contact portion between the first cover and the second cover in the state shown in FIG. 25. FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a first cover and a second cover according to an embodiment, as viewed from the back side. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, in which a first cover is rotated to an open position as viewed from one direction. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment, and is a front view illustrating a state in which a first cover has been rotated to an open position. [Diagram 30] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of a terminal block according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which a first cover is rotated to an open position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The terminal block according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for the convenience of explanation and may differ from the actual ratios.

[0012] In the following description, the direction in which the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft extend is defined as the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). The direction in which the first screw member accommodating portion and the second screw member accommodating portion are aligned is defined as the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The direction intersecting the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) and the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is defined as the Z direction (up-down direction: third direction). In the following embodiment, the up-down direction of each member of the terminal block is defined in a state in which the first cover and the second cover cover the first screw member accommodating portion and the second screw member accommodating portion from above.

[0013] In addition, in the following embodiments, the side where the first insertion / removal opening of the first screw member accommodating portion and the second insertion / removal opening of the second screw member accommodating portion are opened is defined as the front side in the front-to-rear direction, and the side where the first connector fitting portion and the second connector fitting portion are opened is defined as the rear side in the front-to-rear direction.

[0014] 1 to 3, a terminal block 1 according to this embodiment includes a housing 2, a first terminal fitting 3 held in the housing 2, and a second terminal fitting 4 held in the housing 2. This terminal block 1 is a component that can be used to electrically connect, for example, a bus bar (external connection terminal) in an electric device (not shown) to a terminal connector of a wire harness.

[0015] 3, the first terminal fitting 3 includes a first terminal portion 31 and a first connection portion 32 that is electrically connected to the first terminal portion 31 and is capable of electrically connecting an external connection terminal (not shown). The first terminal portion 31 and the first connection portion 32 can be formed using a conductive material such as a metal.

[0016] In this embodiment, the first terminal portion 31 is formed in a generally rod-like shape extending in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) and functions as a connector terminal electrically connected to a mating terminal provided in a terminal connector of a wire harness, etc. The first connection portion 32 is connected to the front side of the first terminal portion 31.

[0017] The first connection portion 32 is formed in a flat plate shape whose plate thickness direction is approximately the same as the Z direction (vertical direction: third direction), and is capable of fastening a bus bar (external connection terminal) or the like in an electric device. In this embodiment, a first screw member 33 fastens a bus bar (external connection terminal) or the like in an electric device to the first connection portion 32. Specifically, a through hole 321 penetrating in the plate thickness direction is formed in the first connection portion 32. The first screw member 33 is also provided with a bolt 331 inserted into the through hole 321 and a nut 332 in which an insertion hole 3321 through which the bolt 331 is inserted is formed. Then, in a state in which an external connection terminal such as a bus bar is in contact with the first connection portion 32, the external connection terminal and the first connection portion 32 are fastened by the bolt 331 and the nut 332, so that the external connection terminal and the first connection portion 32 are electrically connected to each other.

[0018] In this embodiment, the bolt 331 includes a head 3311, a shaft portion 3312 connected to the head 3311, and a flange portion 3313 formed between the head 3311 and the shaft portion 3312 and having a larger diameter than the head 3311 and the shaft portion 3312. The nut 332 is disposed below the first connecting portion 32 with the insertion hole 3321 communicating with the through hole 321. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the external connection terminal and the first connecting portion 32 are electrically connected, the shaft portion 3312 of the bolt 331 is inserted from above into the through hole 321 and the insertion hole 3321. The bolt 331 and the nut 332 are fastened together by, for example, fitting a tool such as a socket into the head 3311 of the bolt 331 and screwing the bolt 331.

[0019] On the other hand, like the first terminal fitting 3, the second terminal fitting 4 includes a second terminal portion 41 and a second connection portion 42 that is electrically connected to the second terminal portion 41 and is capable of electrically connecting an external connection terminal (not shown). The second terminal portion 41 and the second connection portion 42 can also be formed using a conductive material such as a metal.

[0020] In this embodiment, the second terminal portion 41 is also formed in a generally rod-like shape extending in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) and functions as a connector terminal electrically connected to a mating terminal provided in a terminal connector of a wire harness, etc. A second connection portion 42 is provided adjacent to the front side of the second terminal portion 41.

[0021] The second connection portion 42 is also formed in a flat plate shape with a plate thickness direction substantially coinciding with the Z direction (vertical direction: third direction), and is capable of fastening a bus bar (external connection terminal) or the like in an electric device. In this embodiment, the second screw member 43 fastens the bus bar (external connection terminal) or the like in an electric device to the second connection portion 42. Specifically, the second connection portion 42 is formed with a through hole 421 penetrating in the plate thickness direction. The second screw member 43 is also provided with a bolt 431 inserted into the through hole 421 and a nut 432 in which an insertion hole 4321 through which the bolt 431 is inserted is formed. Then, in a state in which an external connection terminal such as a bus bar is in contact with the second connection portion 42, the external connection terminal and the second connection portion 42 are fastened by the bolt 431 and the nut 432, so that the external connection terminal and the second connection portion 42 are electrically connected to each other.

[0022] In this embodiment, the bolt 431 also includes a head 4311, a shaft portion 4312 connected to the head 4311, and a flange portion 4313 formed between the head 4311 and the shaft portion 4312 and having a larger diameter than the head 4311 and the shaft portion 4312. The nut 432 is disposed below the second connection portion 42 with the insertion hole 4321 communicating with the through hole 421. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the external connection terminal and the second connection portion 42 are electrically connected, the shaft portion 4312 of the bolt 431 is inserted from above into the through hole 421 and the insertion hole 4321. The bolt 431 and the nut 432 are also fastened by, for example, fitting a tool such as a socket into the head 4311 of the bolt 431 and screwing the bolt 431.

[0023] Thus, in this embodiment, the terminal block 1 further includes a first screw member 33 electrically connected to the first connection portion 32 of the first terminal fitting 3, and a second screw member 43 electrically connected to the second connection portion 42 of the second terminal fitting 4.

[0024] In this embodiment, the first terminal metal fitting 3 and the second terminal metal fitting 4 are held in the housing body 5 in a state in which they extend in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) and are arranged side by side in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The first terminal metal fitting 3 and the second terminal metal fitting 4 are terminals of opposite polarities. That is, when one of the first terminal metal fitting 3 and the second terminal metal fitting 4 is a positive terminal, the other terminal is a negative terminal.

[0025] The housing 2 in which the first terminal fittings 3 and the second terminal fittings 4 are held can be made of an electrically insulating material such as resin. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the housing 2 includes a housing body 5, a first cover 6, and a second cover 7.

[0026] In this embodiment, the housing main body 5 is formed with a first screw member accommodating portion 56 in which the first screw member 33 is accommodated and a second screw member accommodating portion 57 in which the second screw member 43 is accommodated, arranged side by side in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The first screw member accommodating portion 56 is formed with a first upper opening 561 that opens upward, and the first screw member 33 can be attached and detached by inserting a tool such as a socket into the first screw member accommodating portion 56 from the first upper opening 561. The first screw member accommodating portion 56 is also formed with a first insertion / removal opening 562 that opens forward, and an external connection terminal such as a bus bar fastened to the first connection portion 32 is inserted and removed from the first insertion / removal opening 562.

[0027] Similarly, the second screw member accommodating portion 57 is formed with a second upper opening 571 that opens upward, and the second screw member 43 can be attached or detached by inserting a tool such as a socket into the second screw member accommodating portion 57 from the second upper opening 571. The second screw member accommodating portion 57 is also formed with a second insertion / removal opening 572 that opens forward, and an external connection terminal such as a bus bar fastened to the second connection portion 42 is inserted or removed from the second insertion / removal opening 572.

[0028] A first cover 6 is attached to the upper part of the housing body 5 so as to be able to open and close and cover the first upper opening 561 of the first screw member accommodating portion 56. A second cover 7 is attached to the upper part of the housing body 5 so as to be able to open and close and cover the second upper opening 571 of the second screw member accommodating portion 57.

[0029] As described above, in this embodiment, the housing 2 includes the first cover 6 that covers the first screw member accommodating portion 56 in an openable and closable manner, and the second cover 7 that covers the second screw member accommodating portion 57 in an openable and closable manner.

[0030] In this embodiment, the housing main body 5 has a connector fitting portion 51 that covers the first terminal portion 31 and the second terminal portion 41 when it is open to the rear in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). The connector fitting portion 51 has a substantially cylindrical first connector fitting portion 511 that covers the first terminal portion 31 when it is open to the rear in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). The connector fitting portion 51 also has a substantially cylindrical second connector fitting portion 512 that covers the second terminal portion 41 when it is open to the rear in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). That is, in this embodiment, the space in which the first terminal portion 31 is accommodated and the space in which the second terminal portion 41 is accommodated are partitioned by the housing main body 5. This makes it possible to more reliably maintain the insulation between the first terminal portion 31 and the second terminal portion 41.

[0031] A first finger-touch prevention member 341 is provided at the tip (rear end: end on the opening side of the first connector fitting portion 511) of the first terminal portion 31 to prevent fingers from directly touching the conductive portion of the first terminal portion 31. A sealing member 342 is provided at the base side (front end: connection portion with the first connection portion 32) of the first terminal portion 31 to seal the back side (front side) of the first connector fitting portion 511 with the sealing member 342.

[0032] Similarly, a second finger-touch prevention member 441 is provided at the tip (rear end: end on the opening side of the second connector fitting portion 512) of the second terminal portion 41 to prevent fingers from directly touching the conductive portion of the second terminal portion 41. A sealing member 442 is provided at the base side (front end: connection portion with the second connection portion 42) of the second terminal portion 41 to seal the back side (front side) of the second connector fitting portion 512 with the sealing member 442.

[0033] The housing main body 5 also includes a base portion 52 formed on the front side of the connector fitting portion 51 in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) and above which the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43 are disposed. In this embodiment, the base portion 52 includes a base main body 521, and the base main body 521 is formed with a first insertion space 5211 into which the nut 332 can be inserted and held in a non-rotating state. The base main body 521 is also formed with a second insertion space 5212 into which the nut 432 can be inserted and held in a non-rotating state.

[0034] Furthermore, the housing body 5 includes a fixing portion 53 that protrudes downward from the base portion 52 and is used to fix the terminal block 1 to a housing (wall portion) of an electric device, etc. In this embodiment, a pair of fitting holes 531 and a pair of fitting projections 532 are formed in the fixing portion 53, so that the terminal block 1 is fixed to the housing of the electric device, etc. in a positioned state.

[0035] In this embodiment, the connector fitting portion 51, the base portion 52, and the fixed portion 53 are integrally formed. In this manner, the connector fitting portion 51, the base portion 52, and the fixed portion 53 are integrally formed to form a terminal fitting holding housing 50 that holds the terminal fittings (the first terminal fittings 3 and the second terminal fittings 4). The terminal fittings (the first terminal fittings 3 and the second terminal fittings 4) can be held in the terminal fitting holding housing 50 by, for example, insert molding, press fitting, or the like.

[0036] Furthermore, the housing body 5 is provided with a retaining cover 54 that is detachably attached to the terminal metal holding housing 50 (base portion 52) from the front and prevents the nuts 332, 432 from falling off.

[0037] The housing body 5 is detachably attached to the terminal metal holding housing 50 (base portion 52) from the front, and includes a cover holding portion 55 to which the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are attached.

[0038] In this embodiment, the retaining cover 54 includes a main body 541 that covers the nuts 332, 432 from the front while preventing the nuts 332, 432 from coming off. The main body 541 includes a first housing space 5411 that is inserted into the first insertion space 5211 and can house the shaft portion 3312 of the bolt 331. The main body 541 includes a second housing space 5412 that is inserted into the second insertion space 5212 and can house the shaft portion 4312 of the bolt 431. The retaining cover 54 includes a locking piece 542 that is provided on the main body 541 so as to be capable of bending (elastically deforming) in the Z direction (vertical direction: third direction) and has a locking protrusion 5421 that is releasably locked to the base main body 521. As shown in FIG. 8, the base portion 52 has a through hole 525 penetrating in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction), and by inserting the locking piece 542 into this through hole 525 from the front, the anti-slip cover 54 is releasably locked to the base portion 52.

[0039] The cover holding part 55 also includes a pair of side walls 551 arranged on both sides in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) and a connecting wall 552 connecting the rear ends of the pair of side walls 551. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the pair of side walls 551 are each formed with a lock piece 5511 extending downward from the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) in a state in which the lock piece 5511 can be flexibly deformed (elastically deformed) in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). Also, on both sides in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) of the base main body 521, a lock piece 522 extending upward from the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is formed. Furthermore, each lock piece 522 is formed with a lock protrusion 5221 protruding outward in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). Then, the cover holding part 55 is moved downward to releasably lock the pair of lock pieces 5511 to the locking protrusions 5221 formed on both sides in the Y direction (width direction: first direction), thereby enabling the cover holding part 55 to be detachably attached to the base main body 521. In this embodiment, a fitting groove 523 is formed between the side part of the base main body 521 and the locking pieces 522, and when the cover holding part 55 is detachably attached to the base main body 521, the lower end of the side wall 551 is fitted into this fitting groove 523.

[0040] A locking piece 5521 is formed at the center of the connecting wall 552 in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) so as to extend downward and be capable of being flexibly deformed (elastically deformed) in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). A locking hole 55211 is formed in the locking piece 5521, penetrating in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). As shown in Fig. 9, a through hole 524 is formed at the center of the Y direction (width direction: first direction) at the rear of the base main body 521, penetrating in the Z direction (up-down direction: third direction), and a locking protrusion 5241 is formed in the through hole 524 so as to protrude rearward. Then, the cover holding portion 55 is moved downward, the locking piece 5521 is inserted into the insertion hole 524, and the locking protrusion 5241 is releasably locked into the locking hole 55211, so that the cover holding portion 55 is removably attached to the base body 521.

[0041] In this manner, in this embodiment, the retaining cover 54 and the cover holding portion 55 are attached to the base portion 52 of the terminal metal holding housing 50 to form the housing main body 5 having the first screw member accommodating portion 56 and the second screw member accommodating portion 57. The first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are attached to the cover holding portion 55 which constitutes a part of the housing main body 5 to form the housing 2.

[0042] In this way, the terminal block 1 can be assembled in various ways. For example, the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 can be attached to the cover holding portion 55 after the retaining cover 54 and the cover holding portion 55 are attached to the base portion 52. Also, as shown in Figs. 11 to 14, the terminal block 1 can be assembled by first attaching the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 to the cover holding portion 55 to form an insulating cover member 81, and then attaching the insulating cover member 81 to the terminal block main body 82. The terminal block main body 82 is a unit formed by attaching the retaining cover 54 to the base portion 52 while holding the first terminal fittings 3 and the second terminal fittings 4 in the terminal fitting holding housing 50.

[0043] In this embodiment, the cover holding part 55 includes a positioning wall 553 extending from the front end of the pair of side walls 551 toward the inside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The positioning wall 553 restricts the relative movement of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). The cover holding part 55 includes a front shaft holding wall 554 provided in the center of the front in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) and connected to the front end of the first rotating shaft 558. In this embodiment, the rear end of the first rotating shaft 558 is connected to an intermediate shaft holding wall 555 provided in the center of the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction). The first cover 6 is rotatably held by the first rotating shaft 558. Meanwhile, a second rotating shaft 559 is formed between the intermediate shaft holding wall 555 and the connecting wall 552, and has a front end connected to the intermediate shaft holding wall 555 and a rear end connected to the connecting wall 552, so that the second cover 7 is rotatably held on this second rotating shaft 559.

[0044] Thus, in this embodiment, the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are configured to be rotatable around rotation axes (first rotation axis 558 and second rotation axis 559) extending in the X direction (front-rear direction: second direction) at the center in the Y direction (width direction: first direction).

[0045] In addition, in this embodiment, the first rotating shaft 558 and the second rotating shaft 559 are formed so as to be slightly offset in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) so that the rotation center axis of the first cover 6 and the rotation center axis of the second cover 7 are not positioned on the same straight line.

[0046] In this embodiment, the cover holding portion 55 is formed with a front reinforcing wall 556 that connects the front shaft holding wall 554 and the intermediate shaft holding wall 555 below the first rotating shaft 558. And, a rear reinforcing wall 557 that connects the intermediate shaft holding wall 555 and the connecting wall 552 below the second rotating shaft 559 is formed.

[0047] 9, in this embodiment, a holding groove 526 is formed in the center in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) at the front of the base part 52. When the cover holding part 55 is detachably attached to the base main body 521, the lower end of the side wall 551 is adapted to be fitted into this fitting groove 523.

[0048] The first cover 6 includes a cover body 61 capable of covering the first screw member accommodating portion 56 in an openable and closable manner, and a bearing portion 62 for rotatably holding the first rotating shaft 558. In this embodiment, the bearing portion 62 is formed at a tip portion of the front half of the cover body 61 protruding toward the center in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The bearing portion 62 is attached to the first rotating shaft 558 formed in the front half of the cover holding portion 55, so that the first cover 6 can be rotated between a closed state (a state in a closed position) and an open state (a state in an open position).

[0049] This bearing portion 62 has a U-shaped portion 621 that convex downward when the first cover 6 is closed (in the closed position), and a slip-out prevention protrusion 622 formed on the U-shaped portion 621 that can prevent the U-shaped portion 621 from coming off the first rotating shaft 558.

[0050] The cover body 61 includes a top wall 611 and a hanging wall 612 that is connected to the periphery of the top wall 611 and extends downward. In this embodiment, the top wall 611 includes a lower top wall 6111 formed on the inside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) and an upper top wall 6113 formed on the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). Furthermore, the top wall 611 includes a connecting wall 6112 that extends in the Z direction (up-down direction: third direction) and connects the lower top wall 6111 and the upper top wall 6113. Thus, in this embodiment, the first cover 6 has the top wall 611 that is one step higher on the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). In addition, a first inclined surface 6114 that inclines forward and downward is formed on the front side of the upper top wall 6113. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an engagement piece 63 extending downward is formed on the outer side of the upper top wall 6113 in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) so as to be flexible (elastically deformable) in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). An engagement protrusion 631 protruding toward the inner side in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is formed on the lower end of the engagement piece 63. When the first cover 6 is closed (set to the closed position), the engagement protrusion 631 is releasably engaged with an engagement protrusion 5512 formed on one side wall 551 of the cover holding portion 55. This prevents the first cover 6 from opening unexpectedly in the closed state.

[0051] In addition, the hanging wall 612 includes a front hanging wall 6121 extending downward from the front end of the top wall 611, a rear hanging wall 6122 extending downward from the rear end of the top wall 611, and a side hanging wall 6123 extending downward from the outer end of the top wall 611.

[0052] In this way, when the first cover 6 is closed (in the closed position), the first upper opening 561 of the first screw member accommodating portion 56 is covered by the top wall 611, while the front-rear opening of the first screw member accommodating portion 56 is covered by the hanging wall 612. Furthermore, when the first cover 6 is closed, it is not possible to insert a tool such as a socket into the first screw member accommodating portion 56.

[0053] The second cover 7 includes a cover body 71 capable of covering the second screw member accommodating portion 57 in an openable and closable manner, and a bearing portion 72 for rotatably holding the second rotating shaft 559. In this embodiment, the bearing portion 72 is formed at a tip portion of the rear half of the cover body 71 protruding toward the center in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). The bearing portion 72 is attached to the second rotating shaft 559 formed in the rear half of the cover holding portion 55, so that the second cover 7 can be rotated between a closed state (a state in a closed position) and an open state (a state in an open position).

[0054] This bearing portion 72 has a U-shaped portion 721 that convex downward when the second cover 7 is closed (in the closed position), and a slip-out prevention protrusion 722 formed on the U-shaped portion 721 that can prevent the U-shaped portion 721 from coming off the second rotating shaft 559.

[0055] The cover body 71 includes a top wall 711 and a hanging wall 712 that is connected to the periphery of the top wall 711 and extends downward. In this embodiment, the top wall 711 includes a lower top wall 7111 formed on the inside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) and an upper top wall 7113 formed on the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). Furthermore, the top wall 711 includes a connecting wall 7112 that extends in the Z direction (up-down direction: third direction) and connects the lower top wall 7111 and the upper top wall 7113. Thus, in this embodiment, the second cover 7 has the top wall 711 that is one step higher on the outside in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). In addition, a second inclined surface 7114 that inclines backward and downward is formed on the rear side of the upper top wall 7113. Furthermore, in this embodiment, on the outer side of the upper top wall 7113 in the Y direction (width direction: first direction), an engagement piece 73 extending downward is formed so as to be capable of bending (elastically deforming) in the Y direction (width direction: first direction). Also, on the lower end of this engagement piece 73, an engagement protrusion 731 protruding toward the inner side in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is formed. Then, when the second cover 7 is closed (when in the closed position), the engagement protrusion 731 is adapted to releasably engage with an engagement protrusion 5512 formed on the other side wall 551 of the cover holding portion 55. This prevents the second cover 7 from opening unexpectedly in the closed state.

[0056] In addition, the hanging wall 712 includes a front hanging wall 7121 extending downward from the front end of the top wall 711, a rear hanging wall 7122 extending downward from the rear end of the top wall 711, and a side hanging wall 7123 extending downward from the outer end of the top wall 711.

[0057] In this way, when the second cover 7 is closed (in the closed position), the second upper opening 571 of the second screw member accommodating portion 57 is covered by the top wall 711, while the front-rear opening of the second screw member accommodating portion 57 is covered by the hanging wall 712. Furthermore, when the second cover 7 is closed, it is not possible to insert a tool such as a socket into the second screw member accommodating portion 57.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a rotation restricting protrusion 64 that protrudes inward and upward in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is formed on the rear side of the lower top wall 6111. When the second cover 7 is rotated in the opening direction, the second cover 7 abuts against an abutment surface 641 of the rotation restricting protrusion 64. This restricts further rotation of the second cover 7 in the opening direction.

[0059] Similarly, a rotation restricting protrusion 74 that protrudes inward and upward in the Y direction (width direction: first direction) is formed on the front side of the lower top wall 7111. When the first cover 6 is rotated in the opening direction, the first cover 6 abuts against an abutment surface 741 of the rotation restricting protrusion 74. This restricts further rotation of the first cover 6 in the opening direction.

[0060] Thus, in this embodiment, the first cover 6 is configured to be rotatable between a state in which the engagement protrusion 631 is engaged with the engagement protrusion 5512 (closed state: closed position) and a state in which the first cover 6 is abutted against the abutment surface 741 of the rotation restricting projection 74 (open state: open position). The second cover 7 is configured to be rotatable between a state in which the engagement protrusion 731 is engaged with the engagement protrusion 5512 (closed state: closed position) and a state in which the second cover 7 is abutted against the abutment surface 641 of the rotation restricting projection 64 (open state: open position).

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation angle of the first cover 6 is set to an angle at which the first cover 6 can be opened to an extent that a tool such as a socket can be inserted and work can be performed, but is set to an angle smaller than 90 degrees. That is, the first cover 6, which is in a horizontal state at the closed position, is set to abut against the abutment surface 741 of the rotation restriction protrusion 74 before the first cover 6 is set to a vertical state. Similarly, the rotation angle of the second cover 7 is set to an angle at which the second cover 7 can be opened to an extent that a tool such as a socket can be inserted and work can be performed, but is set to an angle smaller than 90 degrees. That is, the second cover 7, which is in a horizontal state at the closed position, is set to abut against the abutment surface 641 of the rotation restriction protrusion 64 before the second cover 7 is set to a vertical state.

[0062] In this way, when the cover that has been rotated to the open position is released, the cover moves in the closing direction (to the closed position) due to its own weight. This prevents the cover from remaining in the open state, making it possible to more reliably prevent a short circuit between the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43 caused by a tool or the like.

[0063] As described above, in this embodiment, the first terminal fitting 3 and the second terminal fitting 4 are terminals of opposite polarities. Therefore, if the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43 are touched at the same time during installation or removal of the screw members, a short circuit may occur between the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43.

[0064] Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to more reliably prevent short circuits between the screw members (between the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43) during operations such as attaching or removing the screw members (the first screw member 33 or the second screw member 43).

[0065] Specifically, the terminal block 1 is provided with a double-opening prevention mechanism 9 capable of preventing the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 from being opened simultaneously, thereby more reliably preventing the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43 from being touched simultaneously.

[0066] In this embodiment, the first cover 6 is attached to the housing main body 5 in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a first rotation shaft 558 extending in the X direction (one direction). The second cover 7 is attached to the housing main body 5 in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a second rotation shaft 559 extending in the X direction (one direction).

[0067] Furthermore, the first cover 6 is attached to the housing body 5 in a state in which it can move in the X direction (one direction) relative to the housing body 5 between the opening restriction position and the openable position. Here, the opening restriction position is a position in which the first cover 6 is engaged with a first restriction protrusion 5531 formed on the front side (one side) of the housing body 5 in the X direction (one direction) to restrict the opening operation of the first cover 6. Also, the openable position is a position in which the engagement with the first restriction protrusion 5531 is released to enable the opening operation of the first cover 6. Thus, in this embodiment, the first cover 6 is rotatably attached to the first rotating shaft 558 in a state in which it can slide in the rotation axis direction (X direction: one direction).

[0068] In this embodiment, the first restricting projection 5531 is formed at the upper end of the positioning wall 553 on the side where the first cover 6 is arranged so as to protrude rearward. As shown in Fig. 16, the first cover 6 slides forward relatively to the housing main body 5 and is engaged with the first restricting projection 5531, thereby restricting the movement of the first cover 6 in the opening direction (opening operation). The upper end of the positioning wall 553 on the side where the second cover 7 is arranged is not provided with the first restricting projection, so that the opening operation of the second cover 7 is prevented from being hindered by the housing main body 5 in front.

[0069] Similarly, the second cover 7 is attached to the housing body 5 in a state in which it can move in the X direction (one direction) relative to the housing body 5 between an opening restriction position and an opening possible position. Here, the opening restriction position is a position in which the second cover 7 is engaged with the second restriction protrusion 5522 formed on the rear side (the other side) of the housing body 5 in the X direction (one direction) to restrict the opening operation of the second cover 7. Also, the opening possible position is a position in which the second cover 7 is released from the engagement with the second restriction protrusion 5522 to enable the opening operation of the second cover 7. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second cover 7 is also attached to the second rotating shaft 559 rotatably in a state in which it can slide in the rotation axis direction (X direction: one direction).

[0070] In this embodiment, the second restricting protrusion 5522 is formed at the upper end of the connecting wall 552 so as to protrude forward. As shown in FIG. 16, the second cover 7 slides backward relative to the housing main body 5 and is engaged with the second restricting protrusion 5522, thereby restricting the movement of the second cover 7 in the opening direction (opening operation). The second restricting protrusion 5522 is formed only on the half of the connecting wall 552 on the side where the second cover 7 is arranged, and the second restricting protrusion is not provided on the upper end of the connecting wall 552 on the side where the first cover 6 is arranged. This makes it possible to restrict the opening operation of the first cover 6 from being hindered by the rear housing main body 5.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when either one of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 is moved relatively to the openable position, the other cover is set to the open-restricted position. That is, the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are arranged only in the manner of the state shown in FIG. 13, the state shown in FIG. 14, or the state shown in FIG. 15. Here, the state shown in FIG. 13 is a state in which both the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are set to the open-restricted position. Also, the state shown in FIG. 14 is a state in which the first cover 6 is set to the openable position and the second cover 7 is set to the open-restricted position. And, the state shown in FIG. 15 is a state in which the first cover 6 is set to the open-restricted position and the second cover 7 is set to the openable position.

[0072] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, when the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are positioned at the opening restriction position, the gap S1 formed between the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 is made larger than the protrusion amount of each restriction protrusion. That is, the gap S1 is made larger than the protrusion amount D1 of the first restriction protrusion 5531 and the protrusion amount D2 of the second restriction protrusion 5522. In this way, at least one of the covers can be moved to the opening position. In this embodiment, the protrusion amount D1 of the first restriction protrusion 5531 and the protrusion amount D2 of the second restriction protrusion 5522 are made to be approximately the same amount.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gap S1 is set to be smaller than twice the protrusion amount of each regulating protrusion (the protrusion amount D1 of the first regulating protrusion 5531 and the protrusion amount D2 of the second regulating protrusion 5522). This makes it possible to prevent both covers from coming off the regulating protrusions, and when either one of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 is moved relatively to the openable position, the other cover is set to the open-restricted position.

[0074] When the protrusion amount D1 of the first regulating protrusion 5531 and the protrusion amount D2 of the second regulating protrusion 5522 are different, the above-mentioned configuration can be obtained by forming a gap S1 large enough so that both covers do not come off the regulating protrusions based on each protrusion amount. However, in order to easily obtain a configuration in which both covers can be selectively moved to the openable position, it is preferable to set the protrusion amount D1 of the first regulating protrusion 5531 and the protrusion amount D2 of the second regulating protrusion 5522 to be approximately the same amount.

[0075] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing body 5 is formed with a first rotation restriction protrusion 5541 that fits with the first cover 6 when the first cover 6 is moved relatively to the cover-opening restriction position to restrict the rotation of the first cover 6. Specifically, the first rotation restriction protrusion 5541 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape is formed around the first rotating shaft 558 on the inner surface side of the front shaft holding wall 554. As shown in FIG. 17, when the first cover 6 is moved relatively from the cover-opening position to the cover-opening restriction position, the U-shaped portion 621 of the bearing portion 62 fits into the substantially rectangular parallelepiped first rotation restriction protrusion 5541 midway. In this way, the rotation of the first cover 6 is restricted.

[0076] In addition, the housing main body 5 is formed with a second rotation restricting protrusion 5523 that fits with the second cover 7 when the second cover 7 is moved relatively to the cover-opening restricted position to restrict the rotation of the second cover 7. Specifically, the second rotation restricting protrusion 5523 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape is formed around the second rotation shaft 559 on the inner surface side of the connecting wall 552. As shown in FIG. 17, when the second cover 7 is moved relatively from the cover-opening position to the cover-opening restricted position, the U-shaped portion 721 of the bearing portion 72 fits into the substantially rectangular parallelepiped second rotation restricting protrusion 5523 midway. In this way, the rotation of the second cover 7 is restricted.

[0077] In this embodiment, the projection amount D3 of the first rotation restricting protrusion 5541 and the projection amount D4 of the second rotation restricting protrusion 5523 are set to be approximately the same amount. The gap S1 is set to be larger than the projection amount D3 of the first rotation restricting protrusion 5541 and larger than the projection amount D4 of the second rotation restricting protrusion 5523. Furthermore, the gap S1 is set to be smaller than twice the projection amount of each rotation restricting protrusion (the projection amount D3 of the first rotation restricting protrusion 5541 and the projection amount D4 of the second rotation restricting protrusion 5523). In this way, the engagement with the rotation restricting protrusion is released while the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 is relatively slid from the opening restricted position to the opening possible position.

[0078] In this manner, in this embodiment, in order to perform the opening operation of the first cover 6 or the second cover 7, the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 is relatively slid from the opening restricted position to the opening possible position. In this manner, it is possible to prevent the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 from being opened simultaneously.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first cover 6 is formed with a first inclined surface 6114 capable of facing the first restricting protrusion 5531 in the Z direction (up-down direction). This first inclined surface 6114 is formed so as to be inclined toward the front side (one side) in the X direction (one direction) and toward the first screw member 33 side (downward) when the first cover 6 is in the cover-opening restricting position. Similarly, the second cover 7 is formed with a second inclined surface 7114 capable of facing the second restricting protrusion 5522 in the Z direction (up-down direction). This second inclined surface 7114 is also formed so as to be inclined toward the rear side (the other side) in the X direction (one direction) and toward the second screw member 43 side (downward) when the second cover 7 is in the cover-opening restricting position.

[0080] This allows the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 to move more smoothly relative to the open-lid restricted position to the open-lid possible position. Specifically, by rotating the cover upward in a state where the engagement with the rotation restriction protrusion is released, the operation shown in Figs. 18 to 20 is performed, and the cover can be slid from the open-lid restricted position to the open-lid possible position. That is, the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 can be moved to the open-lid possible position while being guided by the first inclined surface 6114 or the second inclined surface 7114. Note that Figs. 18 to 20 show an example in which the second cover 7 is slid from the open-lid restricted position to the open-lid possible position, but the same operation is performed when the first cover 6 is slid from the open-lid restricted position to the open-lid possible position.

[0081] In this manner, in this embodiment, the first restricting protrusion 5531 and the first inclined surface 6114 form a first slide assist mechanism 91 that assists the first cover 6 in sliding to the openable position. Similarly, the second restricting protrusion 5522 and the second inclined surface 7114 form a second slide assist mechanism 92 that assists the second cover 7 in sliding to the openable position.

[0082] 20, when the second cover 7 is disengaged from the second restricting protrusion 5522 (moved to the openable position), the second cover 7 comes into contact with the first cover 6. Therefore, when the first cover 6 is midway from the openable position to the open-restricted position and an attempt is made to move the second cover to the openable position, the first cover 6 is pushed forward (to the open-restricted position) by the second cover 7.

[0083] The second cover 7 is in contact with the first cover 6 in any state from when the second cover is moved to the openable position to when it is rotated to the open position.

[0084] 21 and 22 (where the second cover 7 has been moved from the opening restriction position to the opening possible position), a part of the second cover 7 has a contact portion 93 that comes into contact with the first cover 6. Furthermore, in the state shown in Figures 23 and 24 (where the second cover is located between the closed position and the open position), a part of the second cover 7 also has a contact portion 93 that comes into contact with the first cover 6. And, in the state shown in Figures 25 and 26 (where the second cover is located in the open position), a part of the second cover 7 also has a contact portion 93 that comes into contact with the first cover 6.

[0085] In this manner, in this embodiment, when one cover is moved relative to the other cover from the opening restriction position to the opening possible position, and then rotated from the opening possible position to the open position, the one cover rotates in a state of contact with the other cover.

[0086] In this way, when one cover is rotated, the other cover, which is not rotated, is prevented from moving relative to the other cover to a position where it can be opened.

[0087] This prevents one cover from opening while the other cover is open, and prevents both the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 from opening (double-opening of the covers).

[0088] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27, ribs 6115, 7115 for abutting the mating cover are formed on the back surfaces (lower surfaces) of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7, and a part of the mating cover is also made to come into contact with these ribs 6115, 7115.

[0089] When attaching or detaching the screw members (the first screw members 33 and the second screw members 43) using the terminal block 1 configured as above, the following operations are carried out.

[0090] For example, when rotating the first cover 6 to the open position to attach or detach the first screw member 33, first, the first cover 6 is moved from the opening restriction position to the openable position as shown in Fig. 14. At this time, if the outer end of the first cover 6 in the Y direction (width direction) is lifted upward, the operation shown in Figs. 18 to 20 is performed, and the first cover 6 moves to the openable position.

[0091] Then, the first cover 6, which is in the openable position, is lifted upward to rotate the first cover 6 to the open position. At this time, the first cover 6 rotates to the open position while pressing the second cover 7 with the contact portion 93 so that the second cover 7 is in the open-restricted position. Therefore, when the first cover 6 is open, the second cover 7 cannot be opened.

[0092] Then, the first cover 6 is opened in a state in which the second cover 7 cannot be opened, and the first screw member 33 is attached and detached.

[0093] In addition, when the terminal block 1 according to this embodiment is used, when the first cover 6 that has been rotated to the open position is released after the attachment / detachment operation is completed, the first cover 6 moves in the closing direction (to the closed position) due to its own weight.

[0094] Moreover, when the second cover 7 is rotated to the open position to attach or detach the second screw member 43, the above-mentioned operations are performed in reverse.

[0095] [Actions and Effects] The characteristic configuration of the terminal block shown in the above embodiment and the effects obtained thereby will be described below.

[0096] The terminal block 1 shown in the above embodiment includes a housing 2, a first terminal fitting 3 held by the housing 2, and a second terminal fitting 4 held by the housing 2. The terminal block 1 also includes a first screw member 33 electrically connected to a first connection portion 32 of the first terminal fitting 3, and a second screw member 43 electrically connected to a second connection portion 42 of the second terminal fitting 4.

[0097] The housing 2 also includes a housing main body 5 in which a first screw member accommodating portion 56 for accommodating the first screw member 33 and a second screw member accommodating portion 57 for accommodating the second screw member 43 are formed side by side. The housing 2 also includes a first cover 6 for opening and closing the first screw member accommodating portion 56, and a second cover 7 for opening and closing the second screw member accommodating portion 57.

[0098] Here, the first cover 6 is attached to the housing main body 5 in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a first rotation shaft 558 extending in the X direction (one direction). The second cover 7 is attached to the housing main body 5 in a state in which it can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a second rotation shaft 559 extending in the X direction (one direction).

[0099] Furthermore, the first cover 6 is attached to the housing body 5 in a state in which it can move in the X direction (one direction) relative to the housing body 5 between an opening restriction position and an openable position. Here, the opening restriction position refers to a position where the first cover 6 is engaged with a first restriction protrusion 5531 formed on the front side (one side) of the housing body 5 in the X direction (one direction) to restrict the opening operation of the first cover 6. Also, the openable position refers to a position where the engagement with the first restriction protrusion 5531 is released to enable the first cover 6 to be opened.

[0100] Similarly, the second cover 7 is attached to the housing body 5 in a state in which it can move in the X direction (one direction) relative to the housing body 5 between an opening restriction position and an openable position. Here, the opening restriction position refers to a position where the second cover 7 is engaged with a second restriction protrusion 5522 formed on the rear side (the other side) of the housing body 5 in the X direction (one direction) to restrict the opening operation of the second cover 7. Also, the openable position refers to a position where the second cover 7 is released from engagement with the second restriction protrusion 5522 to enable the opening operation of the second cover 7.

[0101] In addition, when either one of the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 is moved relatively to the openable position, the other cover is set to the open-restricted position. When one cover is moved relatively from the open-restricted position to the openable position and rotated from the openable position to the open position, the one cover rotates in a state of contact with the other cover.

[0102] In this manner, in the terminal block 1 shown in the above embodiment, when either one of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 is moved to the openable position, the other cover is set to the open-restricted position. When one cover is rotated in a state where it has been moved relatively to the openable position, the one cover is in contact with the other cover, regardless of the position of the one cover between the openable position and the open position. In this manner, it is possible to prevent the other cover from opening when one cover is open, and to prevent both the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 from opening (double-opening of the covers).

[0103] In this way, while restricting the opening of either one of the first cover 6 and the second cover 7, the other cover can be opened to perform the work of attaching or detaching the screw member on the other cover side. In other words, the work of attaching or detaching the first screw member 33 or the second screw member 43 can be performed in a state in which a tool such as a socket cannot be inserted into each screw member at the same time. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent a short circuit between the screw members (the first screw member 33 or the second screw member 43) during the work of attaching or detaching the screw members, for example, a short circuit between the first screw member 33 and the second screw member 43 caused by a tool or the like.

[0104] In this way, with the terminal block 1 shown in the above embodiment, when attaching or detaching the screw members, the worker does not need to pay attention to short circuits between the screw members, so that the screw members can be attached or detached more safely.

[0105] Furthermore, the housing body 5 may be formed with a first rotation restricting protrusion 5541 that fits into the first cover 6 when the first cover 6 is moved relatively to the cover-opening restricting position to restrict rotation of the first cover 6. The housing body 5 may be formed with a second rotation restricting protrusion 5523 that fits into the second cover 7 when the second cover 7 is moved relatively to the cover-opening restricting position to restrict rotation of the second cover 7.

[0106] In this way, the first cover 6, which has been moved relatively to the cover-opening restriction position, can be prevented from rotating open by the first rotation restriction protrusion 5541. Therefore, even if the first cover 6 located at the cover-opening restriction position is no longer engaged with the first restriction protrusion 5531 due to deformation of the housing body 5 or the like, the first cover 6 located at the cover-opening restriction position can be more reliably prevented from opening.

[0107] Furthermore, the second cover 7, which has been moved relatively to the cover-opening restriction position, can be prevented from rotating open by the second rotation restriction protrusion 5523. Therefore, even if the second cover 7 located at the cover-opening restriction position is no longer engaged with the second restriction protrusion 5522 due to deformation of the housing body 5 or the like, the second cover 7 located at the cover-opening restriction position can be more reliably prevented from opening.

[0108] Furthermore, the first cover 6 may be formed with a first inclined surface 6114 that is inclined toward the front side (one side) in the X direction (one direction) and toward the first screw member 33 (downward) when in the cover-opening restriction position, and faces the first restricting protrusion 5531. The second cover 7 may be formed with a second inclined surface 7114 that is inclined toward the rear side (the other side) in the X direction (one direction) and toward the second screw member 43 when in the cover-opening restriction position, and faces the second restricting protrusion 5522.

[0109] In this way, when the first cover 6 is moved relatively from the opening restricted position to the openable position, it can be moved to the openable position while being guided by the first inclined surface 6114. Therefore, the first cover 6 located at the opening restricted position can be moved to the openable position more smoothly. Similarly, when the second cover 7 is moved relatively from the opening restricted position to the openable position, it can be moved to the openable position while being guided by the second inclined surface 7114. Therefore, the second cover 7 located at the opening restricted position can be moved to the openable position more smoothly.

[0110] [others] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the present embodiment is not limited to this, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present embodiment.

[0111] For example, in the above embodiment, the first cover 6 is illustrated as being rotated around the first rotation axis 558 extending in the X direction, but it is also possible to rotate the first cover 6 around a first rotation axis extending in the Y direction.

[0112] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example was given of the second cover 7 being rotated around the second rotation axis 559 extending in the X direction, but it is also possible to rotate the second cover 7 around a second rotation axis extending in the Y direction.

[0113] Also, in the above embodiment, the cover holder 55 to which the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are attached is detachably attached to the base 52 (capable of forming the insulating cover member 8). However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and it is also possible to use a configuration in which the first cover 6 and the second cover 7 are attached to an integrally formed housing main body.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the first rotating shaft 558 and the second rotating shaft 559 are provided on the housing main body 5, and the bearings 62, 72 are formed on the first cover 6 and the second cover 7, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and it is also possible to provide the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft on the first cover 6 and the second cover 7, respectively, and to provide the housing main body 5 with bearings that receive the respective rotating shafts.

[0115] It is also possible to arrange the first rotating shaft 558 and the second rotating shaft 559 so that they are aligned in a straight line. That is, it is also possible to arrange the first rotating shaft 558 and the second rotating shaft 559 so that the first rotating shaft 558 is located on one side in the rotation axis direction and the second rotating shaft 559 is located on the other side. In this way, when either the first cover 6 or the second cover 7 is rotated, regardless of the rotation position of the other cover, it is possible to more reliably bring the bearings into contact with each other.

[0116] In addition, the housing, the first and second terminal fittings, and other detailed specifications (shape, size, layout, etc.) can be changed as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 Terminal block 2. Housing 3 First terminal metal fitting 32 First connection part 33 First screw member 4 Second terminal metal fitting 42 Second connection part 43 Second screw member 5 Housing body 5522 Second restriction protrusion 5523 Second rotation restriction protrusion 5531 First restriction protrusion 5541 First rotation restriction protrusion 56 First screw member receiving portion 57 Second screw member receiving portion 6 First Cover 6114 1st slope 7 Second Cover 7114 2nd slope

Claims

1. Housing and a first terminal metal fitting held by the housing; a second terminal metal fitting held by the housing; a first screw member electrically connected to a first connection portion of the first terminal fitting; a second screw member electrically connected to the second connection portion of the second terminal fitting; Equipped with The housing includes: a housing main body in which a first screw member accommodating portion in which the first screw member is accommodated and a second screw member accommodating portion in which the second screw member is accommodated are arranged side by side; a first cover that covers the first screw member accommodating portion in an openable and closable manner; a second cover that covers the second screw member accommodating portion in an openable and closable manner; Equipped with the first cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which the first cover can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a first rotation axis extending in one direction; the second cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which the second cover can rotate between a closed position and an open position about a second rotation shaft extending in the one direction; the first cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which it can move relative to the housing body in the one direction between an opening restriction position where the first cover is engaged with a first restriction protrusion formed on one side of the housing body in the one direction and an opening position where the first cover is released from engagement with the first restriction protrusion and the first cover is openable, the second cover is attached to the housing body in a state in which it can move relative to the housing body in the one direction between an opening restriction position where the second cover is engaged with a second restriction protrusion formed on the other side of the housing body in the one direction to restrict an opening operation of the second cover, and an opening position where the second cover is released from engagement with the second restriction protrusion to enable an opening operation of the second cover, When one of the first cover and the second cover is moved relatively to an openable position, the other cover is set to an open-restricted position, When one cover is moved relatively from the cover-opening restriction position to the cover-opening position and rotated from the cover-opening position to the open position, the one cover rotates in a state of contact with the other cover. terminal block.

2. The housing body includes: a first rotation restricting protrusion that is fitted to the first cover and restricts rotation of the first cover when the first cover is moved relatively to an open-lid restricting position; a second rotation restricting protrusion that is fitted to the second cover and restricts rotation of the second cover when the second cover is moved relatively to an open-lid restricting position; is formed, The terminal block according to claim 1 .

3. a first inclined surface is formed on the first cover, the first inclined surface being inclined toward one side in the one direction and toward the first screw member when the first cover is in an open-lid restricting position, the first inclined surface being opposed to the first restricting protrusion, The second cover has a second inclined surface that is inclined toward the other side in the one direction and toward the second screw member when the second cover is in the open-lid restricting position and faces the second restricting protrusion. The terminal block according to claim 1 or 2.

Images