Waterproof connector

Abstract

To provide a waterproof connector capable of securing an elastic deformation amount of a seal member and also securing a space in which the seal member is arranged even when space restriction is large, and capable of expanding manufacturing tolerance by relaxing an allowable range of displacement between a housing and the waterproof connector.SOLUTION: A waterproof connector 1 includes a housing 12 and an annular seal member 13, and is attached to a casing 101 provided with a connector insertion hole 101b. The seal member 13 has a seal body part 17 and a seal rib 18 abutting on the inner peripheral surface of the 101b of the connector insertion hole to be elastically deformed. The housing 12 is provided with a seal mounting region 16. The seal mounting region 16 is provided with a seal mounting surface 16a to be held in close contact with the seal body 17 and a housing recessed region 16a defining a space recessed from the seal mounting surface 16b. The housing recessed area 16b defines a space into which a part of the resiliently deformed seal body 17 is inserted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a waterproof connector that is attached to an enclosure and includes a housing that holds contacts and an annular sealing member that is attached to the outer periphery of the housing. [Background technology]

[0002] A known waterproof connector that is attached to a housing and includes a housing that holds contacts and an annular sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the housing is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a male connector 20 as the waterproof connector, which includes a male housing 21 that holds contacts 22 and a sealing rubber 35 that is an annular sealing member attached to the male housing 21.

[0003] The male connector 20 of Patent Document 1, which is a waterproof connector, is attached to the inner periphery of the seal wall 6 of the connector arrangement window 5 of the housing cover 4. The gap between the male connector 20 and the housing cover 4 is sealed by a seal rubber 35 and the inner periphery of the seal wall 6. The male connector 20 also has a plurality of guide protrusions 32 spaced apart in the circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the male housing 21. When the male connector 20 is inserted into the connector arrangement window 5 of the housing cover 4, the guide protrusions 32 interfere with the inner periphery of the seal wall 6, thereby regulating the position of the male connector 20 relative to the housing cover 4. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-114830 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a waterproof connector, it is necessary to ensure that the sealing performance of the seal member is properly exhibited, and it is necessary to ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the contact portion of the seal member that contacts the connector mounting portion of the housing where the connector is attached. Furthermore, in a waterproof connector, it is necessary to ensure a space in the area of ​​the housing where the seal member is attached to accommodate the seal member when the seal member elastically deforms. That is, it is necessary to ensure that the volume of the seal member does not exceed the volume of the area of ​​the housing where the seal member is attached. However, if there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector in the housing, it becomes difficult to ensure both the amount of elastic deformation of the contact portion of the seal member that contacts the connector mounting portion of the housing where the waterproof connector is attached and the amount of space for the seal member in the area of ​​the housing where the seal member is attached. Furthermore, in order to ensure both the amount of elastic deformation of the contact portion of the seal member that contacts the connector mounting portion and the amount of space for the seal member in the area of ​​the housing where the seal member is attached, the tolerance for misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector becomes narrow, resulting in strict manufacturing tolerances.

[0006] According to the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, if there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof male connector 20 in the housing cover 4, it becomes difficult to ensure both the amount of elastic deformation of the contact portion of the seal rubber 35 that comes into contact with the seal wall 6 of the connector arrangement window 5 to which the male connector 20 is attached in the housing cover 4, and the space for arranging the seal rubber 35 in the rubber arrangement portion 30 to which the seal rubber 35 is attached in the male housing 21. In order to ensure both the amount of elastic deformation of the contact portion of the seal rubber 35 that comes into contact with the seal wall 6 of the connector arrangement window 5 and the space for arranging the seal rubber 35 in the rubber arrangement portion 30 to which the seal rubber 35 is attached in the male housing 21, the allowable range for misalignment between the housing cover 4 and the male connector 20 becomes smaller, and manufacturing tolerances become stricter.

[0007] Furthermore, in the case of the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, if the tolerance for misalignment between the housing cover 4 and the male connector 20 becomes small, there is a risk that the guide protrusion 32 of the male housing 21 will be scraped off by the seal wall 6 of the housing cover 4 when the male housing 21 is fitted to the housing cover 4. In this case, resin pieces of the scraped off guide protrusion 32 will get in between the seal wall 6 of the housing cover 4 and the seal rubber 35, reducing the sealing performance of the male connector 20 as a waterproof connector.

[0008] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a waterproof connector that can ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member between the housing even when there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector in the housing, and that can also ensure space for arranging the sealing member in the area of ​​the housing where the sealing member is attached when the sealing member elastically deforms, thereby easing the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector and expanding manufacturing tolerances. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) In order to achieve the above object, a waterproof connector according to one aspect of the present invention relates to a waterproof connector that includes a housing that holds contacts and an annular sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the housing, and that is attached to a housing having a connector attachment portion with a connector insertion hole at the connector attachment portion. In one aspect of the present invention, the waterproof connector has a seal member having a ring-shaped seal main body and a seal rib that protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the seal main body and extends along the outer periphery of the seal main body, abutting against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole and elastically deforming; the housing is provided with a seal mounting area that extends along the outer periphery of the housing and into which the seal main body is fitted to mount the seal member; and the seal mounting area in the housing is provided with a seal mounting surface that is in close contact with the seal main body around the entire periphery, and a housing recessed area that is recessed relative to the seal mounting surface and defines a space between the seal main body and the seal main body, and the housing recessed area defines a space into which a portion of the elastically deformed seal main body enters when the seal main body elastically deforms.

[0010] According to this configuration, when the waterproof connector is not attached to the housing, the seal member attached to the outer periphery of the housing has a seal main body that is in close contact with the seal attachment surface in the seal attachment area of ​​the housing, thereby sealing the gap between the seal member and the housing. The seal attachment area of ​​the housing also has a housing recessed area that is recessed from the seal attachment surface. When the waterproof connector is not attached to the housing, a space defined by the housing recessed area is formed between the seal main body that is in close contact with the seal attachment surface and the housing. When the waterproof connector is attached to the connector attachment portion of the housing by being fitted into a connector insertion hole provided in the connector attachment portion of the housing, the seal rib of the seal member abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole and elastically deforms, thereby coming into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole. This seals the gap between the waterproof connector and the housing with the seal member. When the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, the seal member abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole and elastically deforms, causing the elastically deformed seal main body to elastically deform so as to enter the housing recessed area in the seal attachment area of ​​the housing. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, the seal rib of the seal member is sufficiently elastically deformed to fit tightly against the housing, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body moves into the housing recessed area, absorbing the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body within the seal attachment area. Therefore, even if there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector in the housing, it is possible to easily ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the seal member between the housing and the waterproof connector, and to easily ensure space in the area of ​​the housing where the seal member is attached when the seal member elastically deforms. Therefore, even if there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector in the housing, it is possible to easily ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the seal member between the housing and the waterproof connector, and to easily ensure space in the area where the seal member is attached for the elastically deformed seal member, thereby easing the tolerance for misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector and expanding manufacturing tolerances.

[0011] As described above, with the above configuration, even when there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector in the housing, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member between the housing can be ensured, and space for arranging the sealing member in the area of ​​the housing where the sealing member is attached when the sealing member elastically deforms can also be ensured, thereby providing a waterproof connector that can relax the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector and increase manufacturing tolerances.

[0012] (2) The housing recessed region may be recessed from the seal mounting surface toward the inside of the housing and may extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing.

[0013] According to this configuration, the housing recessed area is recessed from the seal mounting surface toward the inside of the housing and extends around the entire outer periphery of the housing. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, the seal main body elastically deforms toward the inside of the housing and moves in volume to the housing recessed area that is provided around the entire housing, allowing the volume of the seal main body to efficiently move toward the inside of the housing during elastic deformation. This further increases the tolerance for misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector, thereby expanding manufacturing tolerances.

[0014] (3) The seal body may be provided with a seal recessed area that is recessed relative to the inner circumferential surface of the seal body.

[0015] With this configuration, the seal main body also has a seal recess area that is recessed relative to the inner circumferential surface of the seal main body, which reduces the volume of the seal main body that elastically deforms toward the seal mounting surface of the housing when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, making it easier to ensure space in the seal mounting area of ​​the housing for the seal member to be positioned therein when elastically deformed.

[0016] (4) A plurality of the housing recessed regions may be provided, and the plurality of housing recessed regions may be provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing.

[0017] According to this configuration, multiple housing recessed areas are provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, the seal body elastically deforms toward the inside of the housing and its volume moves in a distributed manner among the multiple housing recessed areas provided around the entire periphery of the housing, allowing the volume of the seal body to efficiently move toward the inside of the housing during elastic deformation. This further increases the tolerance for misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector, thereby expanding manufacturing tolerances.

[0018] (5) The seal mounting area may be formed so as to extend in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing, and two housing recessed areas may be provided, and the two housing recessed areas may be provided at both ends in the groove width direction of the seal mounting area that extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing.

[0019] According to this configuration, two housing recessed regions extending around the entire outer periphery of the housing can be provided in the seal mounting region that extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing, and the two housing recessed regions can be provided at both ends of the groove-shaped seal mounting region in the groove width direction. Therefore, with this configuration, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing, the seal main body that elastically deforms toward the inside of the housing disperses and moves in volume among the housing recessed regions that are provided around the entire periphery of the housing at both ends of the groove width direction of the groove-shaped seal mounting region, allowing the volume of the elastically deformed seal main body to efficiently move toward the inside of the housing. This further increases the tolerance for misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector, thereby expanding manufacturing tolerances. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present invention, even when there are significant space constraints when arranging a waterproof connector in a housing, it is possible to ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member between the housing, and it is also possible to ensure space for arranging the sealing member in the area of ​​the housing where the sealing member is attached when the sealing member elastically deforms, thereby providing a waterproof connector that can relax the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing and the waterproof connector and increase manufacturing tolerances. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a waterproof connector according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the waterproof connector. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector together with the circuit board, illustrating a state before the waterproof connector is connected to the circuit board. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector together with the circuit board, and showing a state in which the waterproof connector is connected to the circuit board. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector together with the housing, illustrating a state before the waterproof connector is attached to the housing. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector together with the housing, and showing a state in which the waterproof connector is attached to the housing. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the waterproof connector. [Figure 9] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the waterproof connector as seen from the position indicated by the arrow AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 11A and 11B are diagrams showing a sealing member of a waterproof connector, with FIG. 11A being a perspective view and FIG. 11B being a cross-sectional view. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the waterproof connector attached to the housing. [Figure 13]13 is a cross-sectional view showing the waterproof connector attached to the housing, taken along the line BB in FIG. 12. FIG. [Figure 14] These are figures for explaining the state in which a sealing member is attached to the housing of a waterproof connector, where Figure 14(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing before the sealing member is attached, Figure 14(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing and sealing member after the sealing member has been attached, and Figure 14(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector when attached to a housing. [Figure 15] 15A is a diagram for explaining a waterproof connector according to a first modified example, in which FIG. 15(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing before the sealing member is attached, FIG. 15(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing and the sealing member after the sealing member is attached, and FIG. 15(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector attached to the housing. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B are diagrams for explaining a waterproof connector according to a second modified example, in which FIG. 16A is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross section of a sealing member, and FIG. 16B is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross section of a housing before the sealing member is attached. [Figure 17] 17A and 17B are diagrams for explaining a waterproof connector according to a second modified example, in which FIG. 17A is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing and the sealing member when the sealing member is attached, and FIG. 17B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector when attached to the housing. [Figure 18] 18A and 18B are diagrams for explaining a waterproof connector according to a third modified example, in which Figure 18(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing before the sealing member is attached, Figure 18(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing and the sealing member after the sealing member is attached, and Figure 18(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector attached to the housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention provides a waterproof connector that can be attached to a housing, and includes a housing that holds contacts and an annular seal member attached to the outer periphery of the housing. The waterproof connector can be used in a wide variety of applications.

[0023] [Outline of waterproof connector] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a waterproof connector 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the waterproof connector 1. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the waterproof connector 1. FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective views showing the waterproof connector 1 together with a board 100. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector 1 before it is connected to the board 100, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector 1 connected to the board 100. FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective views showing the waterproof connector 1 together with a housing 101. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector 1 before it is attached to the housing 101, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the waterproof connector 1 attached to the housing 101. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the waterproof connector 1.

[0024] The waterproof connector 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 includes a plurality of contacts 11, a housing 12 that holds the plurality of contacts 11, and an annular seal member 13 attached to the outer periphery of the housing 12. The waterproof connector 1 is provided as a waterproof connector to be attached to a housing 101 of an electronic device or the like. The contacts 11 are formed of a conductive metal material. The housing 12 is formed of an insulating resin material. The seal member 13 is formed of a rubber material. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the waterproof connector 1 is mounted on and connected to a substrate 100. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the waterproof connector 1 connected to the substrate 100 is attached to a housing 101. Note that in FIGS. 4 to 7, only a portion of the substrate 100 is shown cut away. Also, in FIGS. 6 and 7, only a portion of the housing 101 is shown cut away, showing the portion where the waterproof connector 1 is attached and the surrounding area.

[0025] 6 and 7, a housing 101 is provided as, for example, a housing for an electronic device, and a substrate 100 to which a waterproof connector 1 is connected is installed inside the housing 101. The housing 101 for the electronic device has, for example, a main body case portion (not shown) and a cover portion attached to the main body case portion so as to cover the main body case portion, and in FIGS. 6 and 7, a part of the cover portion of the housing 101 is illustrated as part of the housing 101 for the electronic device. The housing 101 has a connector attachment portion 101a to which the waterproof connector 101 is attached. The connector attachment portion 101a of the housing 101 is provided with a connector insertion hole 101b into which the waterproof connector 1 is inserted and fitted in a penetrating state. The waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a in a state where it is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b.

[0026] When the waterproof connector 1 is assembled to an electronic device, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the waterproof connector 1 is first connected to a substrate 100. The substrate 100 is provided with a circuit pattern (not shown) and has various electronic elements (not shown) mounted thereon. The substrate 100 is also provided with a plurality of through holes 100a electrically connected to the circuit pattern. When the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the substrate 100, each contact 11 of the waterproof connector 1 is inserted into each through hole 100a of the substrate 100 and electrically connected. The contacts 11 are connected to the through holes 100a by press-fitting or soldering. The waterproof connector 1 is also provided with a substrate fastening bushing 14 (see FIGS. 1 to 5 and 8). The substrate fastening bushing 14 is configured, for example, with a male screw member 14a and a female screw member 14b. FIG. 8 illustrates the substrate fastening bushing 14 in a state in which the male screw member 14a and the female screw member 14b are screwed together. When the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the circuit board 100, the waterproof connector 1 is placed on the circuit board 100 and then fixed to the circuit board 100 by the circuit board fastening bushing 14. At this time, the female screw member 14b is fitted into the fastening hole 15 of the housing 12 of the waterproof connector 1, the male screw member 14a is fitted into the through hole 100b of the circuit board 100, and the male screw member 14a is screwed into the female screw member 14b, thereby fixing the waterproof connector 1 to the circuit board 100.

[0027] When the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the board 100, the board 100 to which the waterproof connector 1 is connected is installed in the main body case of the housing 101. Then, when the waterproof connector 1 is installed in the main body case together with the board 100, the cover of the housing 101 is attached to the main body case. At this time, the waterproof connector 1 is inserted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a in the cover of the housing 101, and the waterproof connector 1 is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in a state in which it penetrates through. By fitting the waterproof connector 1 into the connector insertion hole 101b, the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a. The waterproof connector 1 attached to the housing 101 is connected to a mating connector (not shown). The mating connector is connected to the waterproof connector 1 by fitting into the waterproof connector 1.

[0028] The following describes the configuration of the waterproof connector 1 in more detail. In the following description, the height direction X1, front-rear direction X2, and width direction X3 of the waterproof connector 1 are defined as shown by double-ended arrows X1, X2, and X3 in FIGS. 1 to 8 and the drawings described below. The height direction X1 is configured as the direction in which the waterproof connector 1 is inserted into and fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101. The height direction X1 is also configured as the direction in which the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the board 100. The front-rear direction X2 and the width direction X3 are both perpendicular to the height direction X1 and are configured as mutually perpendicular directions. In this embodiment, the waterproof connector 1 is configured so that the dimension in the width direction X3 is larger than the dimension in the front-rear direction X2.

[0029] [housing] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the waterproof connector 1, taken from the position of the arrow AA in Fig. 2. Referring to Figs. 1 to 9, the housing 12 is made of a resin material and is provided as a structural member having a basic outer shape extending in a substantially cylindrical shape along the height direction X1, and is configured to hold a plurality of contacts 11. The plurality of contacts 11 are made of a conductive metal material and are each provided as a pin-shaped member.

[0030] 1 to 5, 8, and 9, the housing 12 includes a base 12a, a mating connection portion 12b, and a board connection portion 12c, which are integrally formed. The base 12a is provided as a central portion in the height direction X1 and is a disk-shaped portion having a substantially elliptical outer periphery. The base 12a holds a plurality of contacts 11, each of which penetrates the base 12a in the height direction X1 and is held by the base 12a. The contacts 11 are held in the base 12a in a state where they are arranged in multiple rows in the width direction X3. The contacts 11 are held in the base 12a by being press-fitted into the base 12a. Alternatively, the contacts 11 are held in the base 12a by being simultaneously molded with the housing 12 by resin injection molding, thereby being integrally molded with the housing 12.

[0031] The mating connection portion 12b is provided on one side of the base 12a in the height direction X1 and is formed integrally with the base 12a. The mating connection portion 12b is provided as a tubular portion having a substantially rectangular outer periphery and is provided as a portion into which a mating connector (not shown) is fitted for connection. The board connection portion 12c is provided on the other side of the base 12a in the height direction X1 and is formed integrally with the base 12a. The board connection portion 12c is provided as a portion to be installed and connected to the board 100. A plurality of contacts 11 that penetrate the base 12a extend protrudingly in the height direction X1 inside the board connection portion 12c. When the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the board 100, the board connection portion 12c is installed on the board, and the contacts 11 extending inside the board connection portion 12c are inserted into through-holes 100a of the board 100 to be connected to the board 100. Further, the board connecting portion 12c is provided with a fastening hole 15 into which the female screw member 14b of the board fastening bush 14 is fitted.

[0032] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 9. Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 8 to 10, the housing 12 is provided with a seal mounting area 16 extending along the outer periphery of the housing 12 and into which the annular seal member 13 is mounted. The seal mounting area 16 is provided in the base 12a of the housing 12 and extends along the outer periphery of the base 12a. The seal mounting area 16 is provided so as to extend in a groove-like manner along the outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. That is, the seal mounting area 16 is provided so as to be recessed inwardly of the base 12a of the housing 12 and has a groove-like recessed cross-sectional shape extending all the way around the outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. The seal member 13 is mounted by fitting the seal main body 17 of the annular seal member 13 into the seal mounting area 16 extending in a groove-like manner along the outer periphery of the housing 12.

[0033] In the housing 12, the seal mounting area 16 is provided with a seal mounting surface 16a that abuts and closely contacts the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 of the annular seal member 13 over the entire circumference of the seal main body 17. The seal mounting surface 16a is provided as a bottom portion of the seal mounting area 16 that is recessed in a groove shape on the outer periphery of the base 12a, and is provided as a portion that abuts and closely contacts the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 fitted into the seal mounting area 16. In other words, the seal mounting surface 16a is provided as a radially inner portion of the seal mounting area 16 that is recessed toward the inside of the housing 12 on the outer periphery of the base 12a, and is provided as a portion that abuts and closely contacts the inner periphery of the seal main body 17. The seal mounting surface 16a is provided so as to extend over the entire circumference of the base 12a of the housing 12.

[0034] Furthermore, the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12 is provided with a housing recessed area 16b that is recessed relative to the seal mounting surface 16a and defines a space between itself and the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13. The housing recessed area 16b is recessed from the seal mounting surface 16a toward the inside of the base 12a of the housing 12 and extends around the entire outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. In other words, the housing recessed area 16b is recessed in a groove-like shape from the seal mounting surface 16a toward the inside of the base 12a of the housing 12 and extends around the entire periphery of the seal mounting surface 16a on the bottom side of the seal mounting area 16.

[0035] Furthermore, a plurality of housing recessed regions 16b are provided in the seal mounting region 16. The plurality of housing recessed regions 16b are provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12, and are provided so as to extend parallel to each other along the outer periphery of the base 12a. Note that in this embodiment, two housing recessed regions 16b are provided in the seal mounting region 16. The two housing recessed regions 16b are provided so as to extend parallel to each other around the entire periphery of the seal mounting surface 16a on the bottom side of the seal mounting region 16, which extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the base 12a.

[0036] When the annular seal member 13 is mounted in the seal mounting region 16 of the housing 12, the seal member 13 is first expanded in diameter, then placed in the seal mounting region 16, and elastically recovers to reduce its diameter, thereby fitting and mounting the seal member 13 in the seal mounting region 16. FIGS. 9 and 10 show the seal member 13 fitted and mounted in the seal mounting region 16 of the housing 12. The seal member 13 is fitted and mounted at its annular seal main body 17 in the seal mounting region 16. When the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 is mounted in the seal mounting region 16, the seal main body 17 abuts and closely contacts the seal mounting surface 16a, and the housing recessed region 16b recessed from the seal mounting surface 16a defines a space between the seal main body 17 and the seal main body 17 (see FIGS. 9 and 10). The housing recessed area 16b, which defines a space between the seal body 17 of the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment area 16, defines a space into which a portion of the elastically deformed seal body 17 enters when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101 and the seal body 17 elastically deforms.

[0037] [Sealing material] 11A and 11B are views showing the seal member 13 of the waterproof connector 1, with Fig. 11A being a perspective view and Fig. 11B being a cross-sectional view. Referring to Figs. 1 to 11, the seal member 13 is made of a rubber material, is provided in an annular shape having a generally elliptical basic outline, and is attached to the seal attachment area 16 of the base 12a of the housing 12. The seal member 13 has an annular seal main body 17 and a seal rib 18 provided integrally with the seal main body 17.

[0038] 1 and 8 to 11, seal body 17 of seal member 13 is provided in an annular shape having a substantially elliptical outer shape, and is provided as a portion that is fitted into and attached to seal attachment area 16 of housing 12. When seal member 13 is attached to seal attachment area 16 of housing 12, annular seal body 17 is first expanded in diameter and then placed in seal attachment area 16, and seal body 17 elastically recovers and contracts in diameter, thereby fitting seal body 17 into seal attachment area 16, and thereby seal member 13 is attached to seal attachment area 16.

[0039] When the seal body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and the seal member 13 is mounted in the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12, the inner periphery of the seal body 17 abuts and tightly contacts the seal mounting surface 16a of the seal mounting area 16. The tight contact of the inner periphery of the seal body 17 with the seal mounting surface 16a seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12, providing waterproofing. Furthermore, when the seal body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16, a space is defined between the seal body 17 and the housing recessed area 16b of the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12. The space defined between the seal body 17 and the housing recessed area 16b is formed as a space into which a portion of the elastically deformed seal body 17 enters when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101 and the seal body 17 of the seal member 13 elastically deforms.

[0040] The inner periphery of the seal body 17 is provided with a seal recessed region 17a that is recessed relative to the inner circumferential surface of the seal body 17. The seal recessed region 17a is recessed from the inner circumferential surface of the seal body 17 toward the seal body 17. In other words, the seal recessed region 17a is recessed from the inner circumferential surface of the seal body 17 toward the radially outward direction of the seal body 17. The seal recessed region 17a that is recessed relative to the inner circumferential surface of the seal body 17 is recessed in a groove-like shape from the inner circumferential surface of the seal body 17 and extends around the entire inner periphery of the seal body 17. The seal member 13 is provided with multiple seal recessed regions 17a, and in this embodiment, two seal recessed regions 17a are provided. The two seal recessed regions 17a are provided to extend parallel to each other along the entire inner periphery of the seal body 17.

[0041] 1, 6, and 8 to 11, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 is integral with the seal main body 17, protruding radially outward from the outer periphery of the seal main body 17 and extending along the outer periphery of the seal main body 17. The seal rib 18 is provided as a part that abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms when the waterproof connector 1 is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a of the housing 101 and attached to the housing 101. When the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the connector attachment portion 101a of the housing 101, the seal rib 18 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a and elastically deforms, causing the seal member 13 to closely contact the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b. The elastically deformed seal rib 18 comes into close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the connector insertion hole 101b, thereby sealing the gap between the seal member 13 and the connector insertion hole 101b and making it waterproof.

[0042] The seal rib 18 protruding outward from the outer periphery of the seal main body 17 has, for example, a substantially triangular, rectangular, or semicircular cross-sectional shape, and is provided so as to protrude outward from the outer periphery of the seal main body 17. In this embodiment, a seal rib 18 protruding outward from the outer periphery of the seal main body 17 with a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape is exemplified. Furthermore, the seal rib 18 protruding from the outer periphery of the seal main body 17 is provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the seal main body 17. Furthermore, the seal member 13 is provided with a plurality of seal ribs 18, and in this embodiment, two seal ribs 18 are provided. The two seal ribs 18 are provided so as to extend parallel to each other along the entire outer periphery of the seal main body 17.

[0043] [Installing the waterproof connector into the housing] Next, the installation of the waterproof connector 1 to the housing 101 will be described. FIG. 12 is a front view showing the waterproof connector 1 installed in the housing 101. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the waterproof connector 1 installed in the housing 101, as seen from the position of the arrow BB in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the state in which the seal member 13 is installed in the housing 12 of the waterproof connector 1. FIG. 14(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing 12 before the seal member 13 is installed. FIG. 14(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing 12 and the seal member 13 after the seal member 13 is installed. FIG. 14(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector 1 installed in the housing 101. Note that FIGS. 14(A) to 14(C) show cross sections of the seal installation area 16 of the housing 12 of the waterproof connector 1 and the area nearby.

[0044] Referring to Figures 8 and 14(A), in the waterproof connector 1, before the seal member 13 is attached to the housing 12, the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12 is open to the outside, and the seal attachment area 16, which is recessed in a groove shape on the outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12, is also open to the outside.

[0045] 1 to 6, 9, 10, and 14(B), when the seal member 13 is attached to the housing 12, the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12, thereby mounting the seal member 13 to the housing 12 in the seal mounting area 16. When the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and the seal member 13 is mounted to the housing 12, the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 is in close contact with the seal mounting surface 16a of the seal mounting area 16, sealing the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12 and achieving a waterproof state. Furthermore, when the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and mounted, a space is defined between the seal main body 17 and the housing recessed area 16b of the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12.

[0046] 4 and 5, the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the board 100 with the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. The waterproof connector 1 is installed on the board 100, and each contact 11 of the waterproof connector 1 is press-fitted or soldered into each through-hole 100a of the board 100, thereby electrically connecting the waterproof connector 1 to the board 100. Furthermore, the waterproof connector 1 is fixed to the board 100 by fixing the housing 12 to the board 100 via a board fastening bushing 14. Once the waterproof connector 1 is connected to the board 100, the board 100 to which the waterproof connector 1 is connected is installed in the main body case portion of the housing 101.

[0047] When the waterproof connector 1 is installed together with the substrate 100 in the main body case of the housing 101, the cover of the housing 101 is attached to the main body case. At this time, referring to Figures 7, 12, and 13, the waterproof connector 1 is inserted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a in the cover of the housing 101, and the waterproof connector 1 is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in a state where it penetrates through the connector insertion hole 101b. By fitting the waterproof connector 1 into the connector insertion hole 101b, the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a.

[0048] 13 and 14(C), when the waterproof connector 1 is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in the connector attachment portion 101a of the casing 101 and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the base portion 12a of the housing 12 is disposed in the connector attachment portion 101a while passing through the connector insertion hole 101b. In this state, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment region 16 of the housing 12 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms so as to be crushed toward the inside of the seal attachment region 16. As a result, the seal member 13 is tightly fitted to the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b by the seal rib 18 on its outer periphery. The tight fit between the elastically deformed seal rib 18 and the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the connector insertion hole 101b, achieving a waterproof state.

[0049] Furthermore, when the waterproof connector 1 is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the seal rib 18 elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b, and the seal main body 17 elastically deforms toward the back of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. The seal main body 17, which has elastically deformed toward the back of the seal attachment area 16, elastically deforms so as to enter the housing recessed area 16b that is recessed relative to the seal attachment surface 16a (see FIGS. 13 and 14(c)). Therefore, when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 sufficiently elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 moves toward the housing recessed area 16b, and the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 is absorbed within the seal attachment area 16.

[0050] [Actions and Effects of This Embodiment] According to this embodiment, when the waterproof connector 1 is not attached to the housing 101, the seal member 13 attached to the outer periphery of the housing 12 has the seal main body 17 in close contact with the seal attachment surface 16a in the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12, thereby sealing the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12. The seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12 is provided with a housing recessed area 16b recessed from the seal attachment surface 16a, and when the waterproof connector 1 is not attached to the housing 101, a space partitioned by the housing recessed area 16b is formed between the housing 12 and the seal main body 17 in close contact with the seal attachment surface 16a. When the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the connector attachment portion 101a of the housing 101 by fitting it into the connector insertion hole 101b provided in the connector attachment portion 101a of the housing 101, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101 and elastically deforms, coming into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b. This results in a waterproof seal between the waterproof connector 1 and the housing 101 by the seal member 13. When the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal member 13 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms, and the elastically deformed seal main body 17 elastically deforms so as to enter the housing recessed region 16b in the seal attachment region 16 of the housing 12. Therefore, when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal ribs 18 of the seal member 13 are sufficiently elastically deformed to fit tightly against the housing 101, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 moves to the housing recessed area 16b, and the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 is absorbed within the seal attachment area 16. Therefore, even if there are significant space constraints when arranging the waterproof connector 1 in the housing 101, it is possible to easily ensure the amount of elastic deformation of the seal member 13 between the housing 101 and the seal member 13, and it is also possible to realize a structure in which, when the seal member 13 elastically deforms, a space for arranging the seal member 13 can be easily ensured in the area of ​​the housing 12 where the seal member 13 is attached.Therefore, even if there are significant space constraints when placing the waterproof connector 1 in the housing 101, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member 13 between the housing 101 can be easily ensured, and space for the elastically deformed sealing member 13 in the area where the sealing member 13 is attached can also be easily ensured, so the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector 1 can be relaxed, and manufacturing tolerances can be expanded.

[0051] As described above, according to this embodiment, even if there are significant space constraints when placing the waterproof connector 1 in the housing 101, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member 13 between the housing 101 can be ensured, and space for placing the sealing member 13 can also be ensured in the area of ​​the housing 12 where the sealing member 13 is attached when the sealing member 13 elastically deforms, thereby providing a waterproof connector 1 that can relax the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector 1 and increase manufacturing tolerances.

[0052] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the housing recessed region 16b is recessed from the seal mounting surface 16a toward the inside of the housing 12 and is provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing 12. Therefore, when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal main body 17, which elastically deforms toward the inside of the housing 12, moves in volume to the housing recessed region 16b provided around the entire periphery of the housing 12, and the volume of the seal main body 17 during elastic deformation can be efficiently moved so as to escape toward the inside of the housing 12. Therefore, the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector 1 can be further relaxed, thereby expanding the manufacturing tolerance.

[0053] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the seal main body 17 is also provided with a seal recessed area 17a that is recessed relative to the inner peripheral surface of the seal main body 17. This makes it possible to reduce the volume of the seal main body 17 that elastically deforms toward the seal mounting surface 16a of the housing 12 when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the casing 101, making it easier to ensure space in the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12 for disposing the seal member 13 when it is elastically deformed.

[0054] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a plurality of housing recessed regions 16b are provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing 12. Therefore, when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal main body 17 elastically deforms toward the inside of the housing 12 and moves in volume in a dispersed manner among the plurality of housing recessed regions 16b provided around the entire periphery of the housing 12, so that the volume of the seal main body 17 during elastic deformation can be efficiently moved so as to escape toward the inside of the housing 12. Therefore, the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector 1 can be further increased, thereby expanding the manufacturing tolerance.

[0055] [Variations] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to an embodiment, it is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. For example, the following modifications may be made. In the following description of the modifications, differences from the above embodiment will be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings to designate the same or corresponding components as those in the above embodiment, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0056] (1) Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining a waterproof connector according to a first modified example, in which Figure 15(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross section of the housing 12 before the seal member 13 is attached, Figure 15(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross section of the housing 12 and the seal member 13 after the seal member 13 has been attached, and Figure 15(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of a cross section of the waterproof connector attached to the casing 101. Figures 15(A) to (C) show cross sections of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12 of the waterproof connector of the first modified example and the area nearby.

[0057] 15(A), in the waterproof connector of the first modified example, the seal mounting area 16 is provided so as to extend in a groove-like shape along the outer periphery of the housing 12, as in the above-described embodiment. Two housing recessed areas 16b are provided in the seal mounting area 16. The two housing recessed areas 16b are provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12 and so as to extend parallel to each other along the outer periphery of the base 12a. Furthermore, the two housing recessed areas 16b are provided at both ends in the groove width direction of the seal mounting area 16, which extends in a groove-like shape along the outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. The groove width direction of the seal mounting area 16, which extends in a groove-like shape along the outer periphery of the base 12a, is parallel to the height direction X1. The two housing recessed areas 16b are provided so as to extend parallel to each other on both ends in the groove width direction of the seal mounting surface 16a around the entire periphery of the seal mounting surface 16a on the bottom side of the seal mounting area 16, which extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the base 12a. That is, in the waterproof connector of the first modified example, the seal mounting surface 16a is located in the center in the groove width direction of the groove-shaped seal mounting area 16, and the two housing recessed areas 16b are located on both sides in the groove width direction of the seal mounting surface 16a.

[0058] 15(B), when the seal member 13 is attached to the housing 12, the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12, thereby mounting the seal member 13 to the housing 12 in the seal mounting area 16. When the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and the seal member 13 is mounted to the housing 12, the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 is in close contact with the seal mounting surface 16a of the seal mounting area 16, sealing the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12 for waterproofing. When the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and mounted, a space is defined between the seal main body 17 and the housing recessed areas 16b on both ends in the groove width direction of the groove-shaped seal mounting area 16.

[0059] The waterproof connector of the first modified example is connected to the board 100 with the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. Once the waterproof connector of the first modified example is connected to the board 100, it is then installed in the main case portion of the housing 101. Once the waterproof connector is installed in the main case portion of the housing 101 together with the board 100, the cover portion of the housing 101 is attached to the main case portion. At this time, the waterproof connector is inserted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a in the cover portion of the housing 101, and the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in a state where it penetrates through. By fitting the waterproof connector into the connector insertion hole 101b, the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a.

[0060] 15(C), when the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in the connector attachment portion 101a of the casing 101 and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the base portion 12a of the housing 12 is disposed in the connector attachment portion 101a while passing through the connector insertion hole 101b. In this state, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment region 16 of the housing 12 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms so as to be crushed toward the inside of the seal attachment region 16. As a result, the seal member 13 is tightly sealed with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b by the seal rib 18 on its outer periphery. The tight contact between the elastically deformed seal rib 18 and the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the connector insertion hole 101b, achieving a waterproof state.

[0061] Furthermore, when the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the seal rib 18 elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b, and the seal main body 17 elastically deforms toward the back of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. The seal main body 17, which has elastically deformed toward the back of the seal attachment area 16, elastically deforms so as to enter the housing recessed area 16b that is recessed relative to the seal attachment surface 16a. Therefore, when the waterproof connector 1 is attached to the housing 101, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 sufficiently elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 moves toward the housing recessed area 16b, and the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 is absorbed within the seal attachment area 16.

[0062] According to the first modified example described above, two housing recessed regions 16b extending around the entire circumference of the housing 12 are provided in the seal mounting region 16, which extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing 12, and the two housing recessed regions 16b are provided at both ends in the groove width direction of the groove-shaped seal mounting region 16. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101, the seal main body 17 elastically deformed toward the inside of the housing 12 disperses and moves in volume to the housing recessed regions 16b provided around the entire circumference of the housing 12 at both ends in the groove width direction of the groove-shaped seal mounting region 16, and the volume of the seal main body 17 during elastic deformation can be efficiently moved so as to escape toward the inside of the housing 12. This further increases the tolerance for misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector 1, thereby expanding the manufacturing tolerance.

[0063] (2) Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining a waterproof connector according to a second modified example, in which Fig. 16(A) is a diagram showing an enlarged partial cross section of the seal member 13, and Fig. 16(B) is a diagram showing an enlarged partial cross section of the housing 12 before the seal member 13 is attached. Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining the waterproof connector according to the second modified example, in which Fig. 17(A) is a diagram showing an enlarged partial cross section of the housing 12 and the seal member 13 when the seal member 13 is attached, and Fig. 17(B) is a diagram showing an enlarged partial cross section of the waterproof connector attached to the casing 101. Figs. 16(B) and 17 show cross sections of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12 of the waterproof connector according to the second modified example and the area nearby.

[0064] 16(A), in the waterproof connector of the second modification, a seal recessed area 17a is provided on the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13, the seal recessed area 17a being recessed relative to the inner periphery of the seal main body 17. The seal recessed area 17a is provided so as to extend around the entire inner periphery of the seal main body 17. In the seal member 13, one seal recessed area 17a is provided in the center in the height direction X1.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 16(B), in the waterproof connector of the second modified example, the seal mounting area 16 is provided so as to extend in a groove-like manner along the outer periphery of the housing 12, as in the previously described embodiment. However, in the waterproof connector of the second modified example, only one housing recessed area 16b is provided in the seal mounting area 16. One housing recessed area 16b is provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. One housing recessed area 16b is provided so as to extend in a groove-like manner around the entire periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12, in a central portion in the groove width direction (height direction X1) of the seal mounting area 16 that extends in a groove-like manner along the outer periphery of the base 12a. One housing recessed area 16b is provided so as to extend in a groove-like manner around the entire periphery of the base 12a, in a central portion in the groove width direction of the seal mounting surface 16a on the bottom side of the seal mounting area 16 that extends in a groove-like manner along the outer periphery of the base 12a. That is, in the second modified waterproof connector, in the groove-shaped seal mounting area 16, the housing recessed area 16b is located in the central part in the groove width direction, and the seal mounting surfaces 16a are located on both sides of the housing recessed area 16b in the groove width direction.

[0066] 17(A), when the seal member 13 is attached to the housing 12, the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12, thereby mounting the seal member 13 to the housing 12 in the seal mounting area 16. When the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and the seal member 13 is mounted to the housing 12, the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 is in close contact with the seal mounting surface 16a of the seal mounting area 16, sealing the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12 and achieving a waterproof state. Furthermore, when the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and mounted, a space is defined between the seal main body 17 and a housing recessed area 16b in the center of the groove-shaped seal mounting area 16 in the groove width direction.

[0067] The waterproof connector of the second modified example is connected to the board 100 with the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. Once the waterproof connector of the second modified example is connected to the board 100, it is then installed in the main case portion of the housing 101. Once the waterproof connector is installed in the main case portion of the housing 101 together with the board 100, the cover portion of the housing 101 is attached to the main case portion. At this time, the waterproof connector is inserted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a in the cover portion of the housing 101, and the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in a state where it penetrates through. By fitting the waterproof connector into the connector insertion hole 101b, the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a.

[0068] 17(B), when the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in the connector attachment portion 101a of the casing 101 and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the base portion 12a of the housing 12 is disposed in the connector attachment portion 101a while passing through the connector insertion hole 101b. In this state, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment region 16 of the housing 12 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms so as to be crushed toward the inside of the seal attachment region 16. As a result, the seal member 13 is tightly sealed with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b by the seal rib 18 on its outer periphery. The tight contact between the elastically deformed seal rib 18 and the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the connector insertion hole 101b, achieving a waterproof state.

[0069] Furthermore, when the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the seal rib 18 elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b, and the seal main body 17 elastically deforms toward the back of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. The seal main body 17, which has elastically deformed toward the back of the seal attachment area 16, elastically deforms so as to enter the housing recessed area 16b that is recessed relative to the seal attachment surface 16a. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 sufficiently elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 moves toward the housing recessed area 16b, and the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 is absorbed within the seal attachment area 16.

[0070] As with the previous embodiment, the second variant described above also ensures that even when there are significant space constraints when arranging a waterproof connector in the housing 101, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member 13 between the housing 101 can be secured, and space can also be secured for arranging the sealing member 13 in the area of ​​the housing 12 where the sealing member 13 is attached when the sealing member 13 elastically deforms, thereby providing a waterproof connector that can relax the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector and increase manufacturing tolerances.

[0071] (3) Figure 18 is a diagram for explaining a waterproof connector according to a third modified example, in which Figure 18(A) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing 12 before the seal member 13 is attached, Figure 18(B) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the housing 12 and the seal member 13 after the seal member 13 has been attached, and Figure 18(C) is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross section of the waterproof connector attached to the casing 101. Figures 18(A) to (C) show cross sections of the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12 of the waterproof connector according to the third modified example and the area nearby.

[0072] 18(A), in the waterproof connector of the third modification, the housing 12 has a base 12a and a board connection portion 12c integrally formed therewith, and the mating connection portion 12b is formed separately from the integrally formed base 12a and board connection portion 12c. The mating connection portion 12b is then joined to the integrally formed base 12a and board connection portion 12c, thereby forming the housing 12 as an integral unit.

[0073] In the waterproof connector of the third modification, the seal mounting area 16 is provided on one end of the base 12a of the housing 12 in the height direction X1. The one end of the base 12a in the height direction X1 is the side facing the mating connection portion 12b in the height direction X1 of the base 12a. The seal mounting area 16 is provided on the one end of the base 12a in the height direction X1 so as to extend along the outer periphery of the base 12a while forming a stepped area recessed radially inward of the housing 12. When the mating connection portion 12b is coupled to the integrally formed base 12a and board connection portion 12c to form an integrally configured housing 12, the seal mounting area 16 is defined by the outer periphery of the base 12a and one surface of the mating connection portion 12b in the height direction X1, and is provided so as to extend in a groove-like shape around the entire outer periphery of the housing 12. One surface of the mating connection part 12b in the height direction X1 is the surface of the mating connection part 12b that faces the base part 12a.

[0074] In the third modified waterproof connector, the seal mounting area 16 is provided with seal mounting surfaces 16a1, 16a2, and 16a3, which abut and adhere tightly to the entire circumference of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13.

[0075] The seal mounting surface 16a1 is provided as a radially inner portion of the seal mounting area 16 that is recessed toward the inside of the housing 12 on the outer periphery of the base 12a. The seal mounting surface 16a1 is provided so as to extend around the entire periphery of the base 12a, radially inside the seal mounting area 16. The seal mounting surface 16a1 is provided as a portion that abuts and closely contacts the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 fitted into the seal mounting area 16.

[0076] The seal mounting surface 16a2 is provided as a portion configured by one surface of the mating connection part 12b in the height direction X1 in the seal mounting region 16. The seal mounting surface 16a2 is provided so as to extend around the circumferential direction on one surface of the mating connection part 12b in the height direction X1. The seal mounting surface 16a2 is provided as a portion that abuts and closely contacts one end portion in the height direction X1 of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 fitted in the seal mounting region 16.

[0077] The seal mounting surface 16a3 is provided as a portion configured by a surface perpendicular to the height direction X1 in the seal mounting region 16, which is recessed in a stepped manner on the outer periphery of the base 12a toward the inside of the housing 12. The seal mounting surface 16a3 is provided so as to extend around the circumferential direction in the surface perpendicular to the height direction X1 in the seal mounting region 16, which extends in a stepped manner along the outer periphery of the base 12a. The seal mounting surface 16a3 is provided as a portion that abuts and closely contacts the other end in the height direction X1 of the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 fitted in the seal mounting region 16.

[0078] In the waterproof connector of the third modified example, the seal mounting area 16 is provided with two housing recessed areas (16b1, 16b2).

[0079] Of the two housing recessed regions (16b1, 16b2), housing recessed region 16b1 is recessed relative to seal mounting surface 16a2 and defines a space between itself and seal main body 17. Housing recessed region 16b1 is recessed from seal mounting surface 16a toward mating connection portion 12b, which is on one side in the height direction X1. Housing recessed region 16b1, which is recessed relative to seal mounting surface 16a2 in the height direction X1, is provided to extend around the circumferential direction of housing 12. Housing recessed region 16b1 defines a space into which a portion of seal main body 17, which is elastically deformed when fitted into seal mounting region 16, enters.

[0080] The other of the two housing recessed regions (16b1, 16b2), housing recessed region 16b2, is recessed relative to seal mounting surface 16a3 and is provided as housing recessed region 16b that defines a space between itself and seal main body 17. Housing recessed region 16b2 is recessed from seal mounting surface 16a toward board connection portion 12c, which is the other side in the height direction X1. Housing recessed region 16b2, recessed in the height direction X1 relative to seal mounting surface 16a3, is provided to extend around the circumferential direction of housing 12. Housing recessed region 16b2 defines a space into which a portion of elastically deformed seal main body 17 enters when the seal main body 17 fitted in seal mounting region 16 elastically deforms.

[0081] 18(B), when the seal member 13 is attached to the housing 12, the seal main body 17 of the seal member 13 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 of the housing 12, thereby mounting the seal member 13 to the housing 12 in the seal mounting area 16. When the seal main body 17 is fitted into the seal mounting area 16 and the seal member 13 is mounted to the housing 12, the inner periphery of the seal main body 17 abuts and closely contacts the seal mounting surface 16a1, one end of the seal main body 17 in the height direction X1 abuts and closely contacts the seal mounting surface 16a2, and the other end of the seal main body 17 in the height direction X1 abuts and closely contacts the seal mounting surface 16a3. This seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the housing 12, creating a waterproof state. Furthermore, when the seal main body portion 17 is fitted and attached to the seal attachment area 16, the seal main body portion 17 partitions a space between itself and each of the housing recessed areas 16b1 and 16b2 provided on both sides of the seal attachment area 16 in the height direction X1.

[0082] The waterproof connector of the third modified example is connected to the board 100 with the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment area 16 of the housing 12. Once the waterproof connector of the third modified example is connected to the board 100, it is then installed in the main case portion of the housing 101. Once the waterproof connector is installed in the main case portion of the housing 101 together with the board 100, the cover portion of the housing 101 is attached to the main case portion. At this time, the waterproof connector is inserted into the connector insertion hole 101b of the connector attachment portion 101a in the cover portion of the housing 101, and the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in a state where it penetrates through the connector. By fitting the waterproof connector into the connector insertion hole 101b, the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101 at the connector attachment portion 101a.

[0083] 18(C), when the waterproof connector is fitted into the connector insertion hole 101b in the connector attachment portion 101a of the casing 101 and attached to the connector attachment portion 101a, the base portion 12a of the housing 12 is disposed in the connector attachment portion 101a while passing through the connector insertion hole 101b. In this state, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 attached to the seal attachment region 16 of the housing 12 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b and elastically deforms so as to be crushed toward the inside of the seal attachment region 16. As a result, the seal member 13 is tightly sealed with the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b by the seal rib 18 on its outer periphery. The tight contact between the elastically deformed seal rib 18 and the inner circumferential surface of the connector insertion hole 101b seals the gap between the seal member 13 and the connector insertion hole 101b, achieving a waterproof state.

[0084] Furthermore, when the waterproof connector is fitted into connector insertion hole 101b of connector mounting portion 101a and attached to connector mounting portion 101a, seal rib 18 elastically deforms and comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of connector insertion hole 101b, and seal main body 17 elastically deforms within seal mounting area 16 of housing 12. Seal main body 17 elastically deforms within seal mounting area 16 to enter housing recessed area 16b1 recessed relative to seal mounting surface 16a2, and also elastically deforms to enter housing recessed area 16b2 recessed relative to seal mounting surface 16a3. Therefore, when the waterproof connector is attached to the housing 101, the seal rib 18 of the seal member 13 is sufficiently elastically deformed to fit tightly into the connector insertion hole 101b of the housing 101, and the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 moves to the housing recess area (16b1, 16b2), and the volume of the elastically deformed portion of the seal main body 17 is absorbed within the seal attachment area 16.

[0085] As with the previous embodiment, the third variant described above also ensures that even when there are significant space constraints when arranging a waterproof connector in the housing 101, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member 13 between the housing 101 can be secured, and space can also be secured for arranging the sealing member 13 in the area of ​​the housing 12 where the sealing member 13 is attached when the sealing member 13 elastically deforms, thereby providing a waterproof connector that can relax the allowable range of positional misalignment between the housing 101 and the waterproof connector and increase manufacturing tolerances.

[0086] (4) In the above embodiment, the seal mounting area 16 has the housing recessed area 16b extending around the entire outer periphery of the base 12a of the housing 12. However, this is not necessarily the case. The seal mounting area 16 may have a number of housing recessed areas 16b recessed relative to the seal mounting surface 16a, each recessed from the seal mounting surface 16a. In this case, the number of housing recessed areas 16b recessed from the seal mounting surface 16a are distributed throughout the seal mounting area 16 in the height direction X1 and the circumferential direction. Thus, the seal mounting area 16 may have a number of housing recessed areas 16b distributed throughout the seal mounting area 16. [Industrial Applicability]

[0087] The present invention can be widely applied to waterproof connectors that are attached to a case and include a housing that holds contacts and an annular sealing member that is attached to the outer periphery of the housing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1: waterproof connector, 11: contact, 12: housing, 12a: base, 12b: mating connection portion, 12c: board connection portion, 13: seal member, 14: board fastening bush, 14a: male thread member, 14b: female thread member, 15: fastening hole, 16: seal mounting area, 16a, 16a1, 16a2, 16a3: seal mounting surface, 16b, 16b1, 16b2: housing recessed area, 17: seal main body, 17a: seal recessed area, 18: seal rib

Claims

1. A waterproof connector comprising: a housing for holding contacts; and an annular seal member attached to the outer periphery of the housing; the waterproof connector being attached to a housing having a connector attachment portion provided with a connector insertion hole at the connector attachment portion, The seal member has an annular seal body and a seal rib that protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the seal body and extends along the outer periphery of the seal body, abutting against the inner periphery of the connector insertion hole and elastically deforming; the housing is provided with a seal mounting area extending along an outer periphery of the housing, and into which the seal main body is fitted to mount the seal member; In the housing, the seal mounting area is provided with a seal mounting surface that abuts against and closely contacts the seal main body over the entire periphery of the seal main body, and a housing recessed area that is recessed relative to the seal mounting surface and defines a space between the seal main body and the seal mounting surface, A waterproof connector, characterized in that the housing recessed region defines a space into which a part of the elastically deformed seal main body enters when the seal main body elastically deforms.

2. 2. The waterproof connector according to claim 1, The waterproof connector, characterized in that the housing recessed area is recessed from the seal mounting surface toward the inside of the housing and extends around the entire outer periphery of the housing.

3. 3. The waterproof connector according to claim 1, A waterproof connector, characterized in that the seal body is provided with a seal recess area that is recessed relative to the inner circumferential surface of the seal body.

4. 3. The waterproof connector according to claim 1, The housing recessed region is provided in plurality, A waterproof connector, characterized in that the plurality of housing recessed areas are provided so as to extend around the entire outer periphery of the housing.

5. 3. The waterproof connector according to claim 2, The seal mounting area is provided so as to extend in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing, Two housing recessed areas are provided, A waterproof connector, characterized in that the two housing recessed areas are provided on both ends in a groove width direction of the seal mounting area that extends in a groove shape along the outer periphery of the housing.

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