Watertight structure and wire harness for linear transmission members

Abstract

The objective is to further improve watertightness at openings in the exterior. [Solution] The water-stopping structure 30 comprises a wiring member 20 including a first linear transmission member 22, a second linear transmission member 22, and an outer casing 29 having an opening 29h, a housing 40 having a filling space S, a filling portion 32 filled in the filling space, and a spacer 60. The housing covers the wiring member with the opening positioned within the filling space. The spacer keeps at least a portion of the first extension section 22E1 of the first linear transmission member and at least a portion of the second extension section of the second linear transmission member 22 separated within the filling space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water-stopping structure for a linear transmission member and a wire harness.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a wiring module including a plurality of electric wires, a covering portion covering a part of the extending direction of the plurality of electric wires, a housing accommodating a part of the wiring member so as to dispose one side opening of the covering portion inside, and a filling portion filled in the housing so as to close the one side opening of the covering portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It is desired to further improve the water-stopping property at one side opening of the covering portion.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to further improve the water-stopping property at the opening of the covering portion.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The waterproofing structure for a linear transmission member of the present disclosure comprises a first linear transmission member, a second linear transmission member, a wiring member including an outer casing having an opening, a housing having a filling space, a filling portion filled in the filling space, and a spacer, wherein the first linear transmission member has a first outer casing section and a first extension section, the second linear transmission member has a second outer casing section and a second extension section, the outer casing covers the first outer casing section and the second outer casing section, the first extension section and the second extension section extend from the outer casing through the opening, the housing covers the wiring member with the opening positioned in the filling space, and the spacer keeps at least a portion of the first extension section and at least a portion of the second extension section separated within the filling space.

[0007] Furthermore, the wire harness of this disclosure includes a watertight structure for the linear transmission member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, the watertightness of openings in the exterior is further improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the overall structure of the wire harness according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the watertight structure of a linear transmission member according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the watertight structure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the inside of the watertight structure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the line VV in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view showing a water-stopping structure according to modified example 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a water-stopping structure according to modified example 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [Description of Embodiments in this Disclosure] First, the embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described.

[0011] The watertight structure of the linear transmission member of this disclosure is as follows:

[0012] (1) A wiring member comprising a first linear transmission member, a second linear transmission member, an outer casing having an opening, a housing having a filling space, a filling portion filled in the filling space, and a spacer, wherein the first linear transmission member has a first outer casing section and a first extension section, the second linear transmission member has a second outer casing section and a second extension section, the outer casing covers the first outer casing section and the second outer casing section, the first extension section and the second extension section extend from the outer casing through the opening, the housing covers the wiring member with the opening positioned in the filling space, and the spacer keeps at least a portion of the first extension section and at least a portion of the second extension section separated within the filling space.

[0013] This watertight structure ensures that the spacer keeps at least a portion of the first extension section and at least a portion of the second extension section separated within the filling space. As a result, the filling material filling the space easily penetrates between the first and second extension sections. Therefore, the watertightness at the opening of the exterior section is further improved.

[0014] (2) A watertight structure for the linear transmission member of (1), wherein the housing may have a filling port that opens to the filling space and the space outside the housing.

[0015] In this case, the filling material for forming the filling section can be easily filled into the filling space using the filling port.

[0016] (3) The water stop structure of the linear transmission member of (2), wherein the filling portion may protrude outward from the filling port.

[0017] In this case, by checking the protruding state of the filling portion from the filling port, it can be easily confirmed whether the filling space is filled with the filling portion.

[0018] (4) The water stop structure of the linear transmission member of (2) or (3), wherein the filling portion may exhibit a color different from that of the housing.

[0019] Thereby, the state of the filling portion with respect to the housing can be easily confirmed.

[0020] (5) The water stop structure of any one of the linear transmission members from (2) to (4), wherein the housing may have a mark located on the inner peripheral surface of the filling port.

[0021] In this case, by checking the state of the filling portion with respect to the mark, the filling state can be easily confirmed.

[0022] (6) The water stop structure of any one of the linear transmission members from (1) to (5), wherein the housing includes a housing body having a bottom portion, a pair of side walls protruding from the bottom portion, and a support wall protruding from the bottom portion, the pair of side walls face each other with a gap therebetween, the support wall is located between the pair of side walls and has an exterior portion holding recess into which the exterior portion is fitted, the filling space is a space surrounded by the pair of side walls and the support wall, the spacer faces the support wall with a gap therebetween, the exterior portion is fitted into the exterior portion holding recess with the opening located between the support wall and the spacer, and the filling portion may be filled in the filling space in a state of being interposed between the first extension section and the second extension section between the support wall and the opening.

[0023] In this case, the spacer faces the support wall with a gap between them, and the opening is positioned between the support wall and the spacer, while the exterior part is fitted into the exterior part holding recess. As a result, the state of the first and second extension sections extending from the opening is stabilized. Therefore, the filling section can be interposed more reliably between the spacer and the opening, and between the first and second extension sections, further improving the watertightness of the opening of the exterior part.

[0024] (7)(6) A watertight structure for the linear transmission member, wherein the spacer may protrude from the bottom.

[0025] This allows the spacer to be integrally formed with the housing body, which has a bottom, a pair of side walls, and support walls.

[0026] (8)(7) A watertight structure for a linear transmission member, wherein the space enclosed by the bottom, the pair of side walls, the support wall, and the spacer may be the filling space.

[0027] This allows the spacer to be used as a partition to form a filling space.

[0028] (9)(8) A watertight structure for a linear transmission member, wherein the spacer may have a first slit for positioning the first extension section and a second slit for positioning the second extension section.

[0029] In this case, by fitting the first extension section into the first slit of the spacer and the second extension section into the second slit, a space for filling can be easily formed by the spacer.

[0030] A watertight structure for any one of the linear transmission members described in (10)(6) to (9), wherein the housing body has a positioning projection that protrudes from the bottom toward the filling space, and the positioning projection may contact the edge of the exterior part toward the opening side at a position between the spacer and the support wall, away from the spacer.

[0031] In this case, the positioning projection contacts the edge of the exterior part on the opening side, causing the opening and the spacer to be positioned apart. This ensures that the first extension section and the second extension section are more reliably spaced apart between the opening and the spacer. The space between the first extension section and the second extension section can be more easily filled with the filling section, further improving watertightness.

[0032] (11) A watertight structure for any one of the linear transmission members from (6) to (10), wherein the bottom portion may have a viewing window that opens to the inside of the filling space and to the outside space of the housing.

[0033] A watertight structure for any one of the linear transmission members from (12)(6) to (10), wherein the housing may further have a lid portion that closes the filling space on the opposite side from the bottom portion.

[0034] In this case, the portion of the linear transmission member extending from the outer casing and the filling portion are protected by the lid.

[0035] (13)(12) A watertight structure for a linear transmission member, wherein the outer casing fitted into the outer casing holding recess may be sandwiched between the support wall and the lid.

[0036] This holds the outer casing in place between the housing body and the lid.

[0037] Furthermore, the wire harness of this disclosure is as follows:

[0038] (14) A wire harness having a watertight structure for any one of the linear transmission members from (1) to (13).

[0039] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure] Specific examples of the watertight structure and wire harness for linear transmission members of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to these examples and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims as indicated by the claims.

[0040] [Embodiment] The following describes the watertight structure and wire harness of the linear transmission member according to the embodiment.

[0041] <Wire Harness> Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the overall structure of a wire harness 10 equipped with a watertight structure 30 for linear transmission members. The wire harness 10 comprises wiring members 20 and a watertight structure 30.

[0042] The wiring member 20 comprises a plurality of linear transmission members 22. In this embodiment, the plurality of linear transmission members 22 comprises linear transmission members 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, and 22f. When referring to the plurality of linear transmission members collectively, they are written as linear transmission member 22, and when referring to the plurality of linear transmission members separately, they may be written as linear transmission members 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, and 22f.

[0043] The outer casing 29 covers a portion of each of the multiple linear transmission members 22. The remaining portions of each of the multiple linear transmission members 22 extend and branch out from the outer casing 29. For example, the ends of the multiple linear transmission members 22 that are covered by the outer casing 29 are connected to a common connector 25. The ends of the multiple linear transmission members 22 that extend from the outer casing 29 are divided into three groups: linear transmission members 22a, 22b, linear transmission members 22c, 22d, and linear transmission members 22e, 22f, with connectors 26, 27, and 28 connected to their respective ends. The multiple linear transmission members 22 may also be divided into two groups or four or more groups.

[0044] The connectors 25, 26, 27, and 28 described above are connected to electrical components, such as electronic control units, actuators, or sensors. In other words, the wire harness 10 is used as wiring to connect various electrical components. The number of linear transmission members in the wire harness 10 is arbitrary. For example, the wire harness may have four or eight linear transmission members.

[0045] If multiple linear transmission members 22 extend from the outer casing 29, water traveling along the linear transmission members 22 may enter the outer casing 29. For example, if the wire harness 10 is a harness for an electric parking brake, the linear transmission members 22 or connectors 26, 27, and 28 may be placed in an environment exposed to water. In this case, water can easily travel along the linear transmission members 22. Therefore, a water-sealing structure 30 is provided at the branching portion of the wiring member 20. The water-sealing structure 30 prevents water traveling along the linear transmission members 22 from entering the outer casing 29.

[0046] <Waterproof structure> The water-stopping structure 30 will now be described. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the water-stopping structure 30. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the water-stopping structure 30. Figure 4 is a plan view showing the interior of the water-stopping structure 30. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along line VV in Figure 1, and Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along line VI-VI in Figure 1.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the water-stopping structure 30 comprises a wiring member 20, a housing 40, a filling section 32, and a spacer 60.

[0048] <Wiring components> As described above, the wiring member 20 comprises a plurality of linear transmission members 22. The linear transmission members 22 are linear members that serve as a transmission medium for electricity or light. The linear transmission members 22 are, for example, insulated wires. An insulated wire is a wire having a core wire and an insulation that covers the core wire. The linear transmission members 22 may be optical fibers. The linear transmission members 22 may be cables containing a plurality of wires.

[0049] The linear transmission members 22 may be signal lines or power lines. For example, linear transmission members 22a and 22b may be signal lines, linear transmission members 22c and 22d may be signal lines, and 22e and 22f may be power lines. The thickness of the linear transmission members 22 is arbitrary. For example, linear transmission members 22e and 22f may be thicker than linear transmission members 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d.

[0050] Each of the multiple linear transmission members 22 has an outer casing section 22E1 and an extension section 22E2. The outer casing section 22E1 is the section covered by the outer casing 29. The outer casing sections 22E1 of each of the multiple linear transmission members 22 are arranged along a common path and bundled together, and are covered by the outer casing 29. The outer casing 29 has an opening 29h. The extension section 22E2 extends from the outer casing 29 through the opening 29h and is the section not covered by the outer casing 29.

[0051] The outer casing 29 is, for example, a resin coating that covers a plurality of linear transmission members 22. For example, the outer casing 29 is formed by extruding resin onto a plurality of linear transmission members 22. The outer casing 29 may also be called a sheath. The outer casing 29 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. The outer casing only needs to be the part that covers the plurality of linear transmission members 22, and may be, for example, a resin tube, a rubber tube, or a corrugated tube.

[0052] In the outer casing section 22E1, some of the linear transmission members 22 may be twisted together. For example, within the outer casing section 29, linear transmission members 22a and 22b may be twisted together, and linear transmission members 22c and 22d may be twisted together. Alternatively, the entirety of linear transmission members 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, and 22f may be twisted together.

[0053] In the extended section 22E2, the multiple linear transmission members 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, and 22f may or may not be branched. For example, linear transmission members 22a and 22b, linear transmission members 22c and 22d, and linear transmission members 22e and 22f may branch off from each other. In the extended section 22E2, linear transmission members 22a and 22b may be twisted together, and linear transmission members 22c and 22d may be twisted together. The twisting may be done outside the filling space S. The branching may be done in the portion that extends out of the housing 40.

[0054] <Housing> The housing 40 is, for example, a part molded from resin. The housing 40 has a filling space S. With the opening 29h positioned within the filling space S, the housing 40 covers the wiring member 20. The housing 40 covers the opening 29h of the outer casing 29 of the wiring member 20 and the base end of the multiple extension sections 22E2 on the opening 29h side. The opening 29h and the base end of the multiple extension sections 22E2 are positioned within the filling space S.

[0055] The filling portion 32 is filled into the filling space S. The filling portion 32 may be the portion formed when a filler that can be cured from a liquid state is filled into the filling space S in a liquid state and then cured. For example, the filling portion 32 may be formed by solidifying a hot melt while it is filled into the filling space S. The hot melt is, for example, a polymer that melts into a liquid when heated (for example, 180°C or higher) and solidifies at room temperature. The filler that can be cured from a liquid state may be a moisture-curing adhesive or a two-component adhesive. The filling portion does not have to be formed by a filler that solidifies completely. For example, the filling portion may be formed by filling the filling space S with a filler having a viscosity such that it does not leak out of the housing 40, such as grease.

[0056] <Filling section> The filling portion 32 may exhibit a different color from the housing 40. A different color may be a combination of colors that are perceived as different visually. A different color may be the difference between a chromatic color and an achromatic color. A different color may be one in which at least one of the following is different: hue, lightness, or saturation. If the filling portion 32 exhibits a different color from the housing 40, the filling state of the filling portion 32 in relation to the housing 40 can be easily confirmed.

[0057] The filling portion 32 may be transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque. If the filling portion 32 is transparent or semi-transparent, the state of the linear transmission member 22 inside the filling portion 32 can be easily observed.

[0058] For example, the housing 40 may be achromatic (e.g., black) and the filling portion 32 may be a chromatic (e.g., blue) translucent material.

[0059] <Spacer> The spacer 60 keeps at least portions of the extension sections 22E2 of the different linear transmission members 22 separated within the filling section 32. In other words, the spacer 60 creates a space between at least portions of the separate extension sections 22E2.

[0060] The filling section 32 enters the space between at least a portion of the separate extension sections 22E2 within the filling space S and fills that space. For example, in sections where multiple extension sections 22E2 are in contact with each other, the flow of the filler may be obstructed, making it difficult for the filler to enter the gaps between the multiple extension sections 22E2. If the gaps around the extension sections 22E2 are long in the filled state, water may easily flow along the extension sections 22E2 towards the outer casing 29.

[0061] If gaps exist between at least a portion of separate extension sections 22E2 within the filled space S, the filler can easily penetrate the gaps between multiple extension sections 22E2. Therefore, for each extension section 22E2, at least a portion in the longitudinal direction is likely to be covered with the filler, and the entire circumferential direction of the extension section 22E2 is likely to be covered with the filler. As a result, water is less likely to flow through the extension sections 22E2 to the outer casing 29.

[0062] Furthermore, the filling portion 32 is easily filled between multiple extension sections 22E2. In addition, the filling portion 32 easily reaches the opening 29h by passing between multiple extension sections 22E2. It is easy to cover the opening 29h or enter the outer casing 29 through the opening, thereby blocking the opening 29h. From these points as well, it is difficult for water to reach the outer casing 29.

[0063] Let's explain the structure of each part in more detail.

[0064] <Housing Body> The housing 40 includes a housing body 41. The housing body 41 is, for example, a part molded from resin. The housing body 41 has a bottom 42, a pair of side walls 43, 44, and a support wall 47.

[0065] The bottom portion 42 is formed in a plate shape. For example, the bottom portion 42 includes a rectangular region portion 41a and a plurality of branched region portions 41b, 41c, and 41d.

[0066] The rectangular region 41a is a rectangular area that is elongated in one direction. For example, both corners at one end of the rectangular region 41a are formed in a rounded shape, and the other end of the rectangular region 41a is formed to gradually narrow outwards. The portion of the wiring member 20 covered by the outer casing 29 extends from the longitudinal end of the rectangular region 41a.

[0067] A rectangular branching region 41b is connected to one end of the shorter side of the other end of the rectangular region 41a. Linear transmission members 22a and 22b extend outward from the branching region 41b.

[0068] Branched regions 41c and 41d are connected to one of the longer sides of the rectangular region 41a, near the other end in the longitudinal direction of the rectangular region 41a. The branched regions 41c and 41d are rectangular in shape and adjacent to each other. The branched region 41d protrudes more significantly from the rectangular region 41a than the branched region 41c.

[0069] Linear transmission members 22c and 22d extend outward from the branching region 41c. Linear transmission members 22e and 22f extend outward from the branching region 41d.

[0070] A pair of side walls 43 and 44 protrude from the bottom 42. Side wall 43 extends, for example, from the other long side of the rectangular region 41a along one side of the branched region 41b. Side wall 44 extends, for example, from a portion near one end of the long side of the rectangular region 41a along one side of the branched region 41c. The pair of side walls 43 and 44 face each other with a gap between them in a portion near one end of the longitudinal direction of the rectangular region 41a. The pair of side walls include portions that extend parallel to each other along a pair of long sides of the rectangular region 41a and portions that slope to gradually approach the outer end of one end of the rectangular region 41a. The region of the bottom 42 near one end of the longitudinal direction of the rectangular region 41a is located between the side walls 43 and 44.

[0071] Furthermore, a side wall 45 is formed along one side of the branching region 41d, passing from the other side of the branching region 41b through the shorter side of the other end in the longitudinal direction of the rectangular region 41a. Also, a side wall 46 is formed along the other side of the branching region 41d and the other side of the branching region 41c. At least a portion of the side wall 46 separates the branching region 41d and the branching region 41c.

[0072] The portion of the bottom 42 excluding the part from which the wiring member 20 extends is surrounded by side walls 43, 44, 45, and 46.

[0073] Tube positioning projections 42t capable of positioning the corrugated tube 24 are formed in the portions of the housing body 41 corresponding to the branching regions 41b, 41c, and 41d, respectively.

[0074] For example, each of the linear transmission members 22a, 22b, linear transmission members 22c, 22d, linear transmission members 22e, and 22f is fitted with a corrugated tube 24. Each of these corrugated tubes 24 is positioned in the branching region portions 41b, 41c, and 41d by a tube positioning projection 42t.

[0075] The support wall 47 protrudes from the bottom 42 on the same side as the side walls 43 and 44. The support wall 47 is located between the pair of side walls 43 and 44. More specifically, the support wall 47 extends along the longitudinal edge of the rectangular region 41a of the bottom 42. The space enclosed by the support wall 47 and the pair of side walls 43 and 44 is the filling portion 32.

[0076] The support wall 47 has an exterior part retaining recess 47g. The exterior part retaining recess 47g is a semicircular or U-shaped recess. The exterior part retaining recess 47g opens on the side opposite to the bottom 42. The exterior part retaining recess 47g has a width that allows, for example, the exterior part 29 to be fitted into it. The back of the exterior part retaining recess 47g is separated from the bottom 42. The exterior part 29 is fitted into the exterior part retaining recess 47g. By fitting the exterior part 29 into the exterior part retaining recess 47g, the exterior part 29 is held in a fixed position in the width direction of the bottom 42 and at a distance from the bottom 42.

[0077] A pair of side walls 43 and 44 extend further outside the support wall 47. An outer support wall 48 is located at a distance outside the support wall 47. The outer support wall 48 is supported at the ends of the outer extensions of the pair of side walls 43 and 44.

[0078] The outer support wall 48 also has a recess 48g similar to the outer casing retaining recess 47g. The outer casing 29 is also fitted into the recess 48g. A fastening member such as a cable tie may be fastened between the support wall 47 and the outer support wall 48, and between the outer casing 29 and the side wall 43 or 44.

[0079] The spacer 60 is positioned opposite the support wall 47 at a distance. For example, the spacer 60 may protrude from the bottom 42. In other words, the spacer 60 may be a part integrally formed with the housing 40 in resin.

[0080] The spacer may be separate from the housing, which includes the bottom and side walls. For example, grooves may be formed in a pair of side walls for fitting the spacer, and the spacer may be held in a fixed position relative to the bottom and side walls by being fitted into these grooves.

[0081] In this embodiment, the space enclosed by the bottom portion 42, the pair of side walls 43 and 44, and the spacer 60 is defined as the filling space S. In other words, the spacer 60 can be used both as a spacer separating the linear transmission members 22 and as a partition separating the filling space S from other spaces.

[0082] The spacer does not need to separate the filling space from other spaces. For example, the spacer may be located within a filling space that is separated by other members. For example, the spacer may be a projection, such as a pin-shaped projection, that restricts the path of the linear transmission members 22 so as to create a gap between them.

[0083] The spacer 60 has multiple slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d. Slit 62a is a slit for positioning the extension section 22E2.

[0084] More specifically, the spacer 60 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. Both short sides of the spacer 60 are connected to a pair of side walls 43 and 44. One long side of the spacer 60 is connected to the bottom 42.

[0085] The other long side of the spacer 60 faces away from the bottom 42. Slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d are formed from the other long side of the spacer 60 toward the bottom 42. The slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d are, for example, U-shaped. Multiple linear transmission members 22 are held separately in each of the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d.

[0086] For example, four slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d are formed in parallel in the spacer 60. Linear transmission members 22a and 22b are housed in slit 62a on one side in the direction of alignment of slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d, and linear transmission members 22c and 22d are housed in slit 62d on the other side in the same direction of alignment. Linear transmission members 22e and 22f are housed in slits 62b and 62c, respectively, which are in the middle of the direction of alignment of slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d.

[0087] Therefore, in the spacer 60, the extended sections 22E2 of the linear transmission members 22a and 22b, the extended sections 22E2 of the linear transmission members 22b and 22c, the extended section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22d, and the extended section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22e are held in a state of being positioned apart from each other.

[0088] Between the spacer 60 and the support wall 47, the extended sections 22E2 of the linear transmission members 22a and 22b, the extended sections 22E2 of the linear transmission members 22b and 22c, the extended section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22d, and the extended section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22e are kept separate.

[0089] Any combination of the multiple linear transmission members 22 that is kept separated by the spacer 60 can be identified as a combination of the first linear transmission member and the second linear transmission member.

[0090] For example, the linear transmission member 22a may be understood as the first linear transmission member, and the linear transmission member 22e as the second linear transmission member. In this case, the exterior section 22E1 of the linear transmission member 22a that is covered by the exterior section 29 is the first exterior section, and the extension section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22a that extends from the exterior section 29 is the first extension section. Similarly, the exterior section 22E1 of the linear transmission member 22e that is covered by the exterior section 29 is the first exterior section, and the extension section 22E2 of the linear transmission member 22e that extends from the exterior section 29 is the first extension section. In this case, the slit 62a that positions the linear transmission member 22a may be understood as the first slit, and the slit 62b that positions the linear transmission member 22e may be understood as the second slit.

[0091] Furthermore, for example, the linear transmission member 22e may be understood as the first linear transmission member and the linear transmission member 22f as the second linear transmission member. In this case, the slit 62b that positions the linear transmission member 22e may be understood as the first slit and the slit 62c that positions the linear transmission member 22f as the second slit. Furthermore, for example, the linear transmission member 22f may be understood as the first linear transmission member and the linear transmission member 22c as the second linear transmission member.

[0092] The edges of the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d that open to the filling space S or the side opposite to the filling space S may be formed in a rounded shape. This increases the contact area between the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d and the linear transmission member 22, thereby suppressing localized contact with the linear transmission member 22.

[0093] The depths of the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d should be set to be greater than the diameter or the sum of the diameters of the linear transmission member 22 to be held. This ensures that the linear transmission member 22 is held completely within the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d.

[0094] The linear transmission members 22 inside the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d may be pressed against the lid portion 50, which will be described later, to prevent them from coming loose.

[0095] Thus, any combination of linear transmission members 22 held apart by the spacer 60 can be identified as the first linear transmission member and the second linear transmission member, and similarly, combinations of slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d that hold the first linear transmission member and the second linear transmission member apart can be identified as the first slit and the second slit.

[0096] The wider the spacer 60, the easier it is for the filler to penetrate into the filling space S. The width and thickness of the spacer 60 should be set considering factors such as the ease with which the filler penetrates and its durability.

[0097] With the opening 29h of the exterior part 29 positioned between the support wall 47 and the spacer 60, the exterior part 29 is fitted into the exterior part retaining recess 47g.

[0098] The housing body 41 may have a positioning projection 42p. The positioning projection 42p is a portion that protrudes from the bottom 42 toward the filling space S. For example, the positioning projection 42p is located between the support wall 47 and the spacer 60. The positioning projection 42p may be located away from the spacer 60. The positioning projection 42p may be located closer to the support wall 47 than to the spacer 60. The positioning projection 42p may be located in the center between a pair of side walls 43, 44. The tip of the positioning projection 42p may be formed in a shape that is recessed in the width direction center.

[0099] The positioning projection 42p is located between the spacer 60 and the support wall 47, away from the spacer 60, and contacts the edge of the exterior portion 29 on the opening 29h side. This keeps the opening 29h away from the spacer 60. In other words, a gap is created between the opening 29h and the spacer 60.

[0100] The separation of the spacer 60 and the opening 29h makes it easier to pour the filler into the extended section 22E2 located between them. In addition, sharp bending of the linear transmission member 22 is more easily suppressed.

[0101] The extended sections 22E2 of each linear transmission member 22 extending from the opening 29h move apart in accordance with the positions of the positioning targets, slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d, as they approach the spacer 60. As a result, gaps are formed between each extended section 22E2.

[0102] The filling portion 32 is filled between the opening 29h and the spacer 60, so as to be interposed between the extended sections 22E2 of the multiple linear transmission members 22. In other words, the spacer 60 ensures a gap between each extended section 22E2, and the filling material fills this gap and fills the filling space S, thereby forming the filling portion 32.

[0103] The filling portion 32 does not need to extend throughout the entire filling space S. For example, the filling portion 32 does not need to completely fill the support wall 47 side. The filling portion 32 only needs to fill the filling space S to the extent that it can stop water from entering through the extended section 22E2 and the opening 29h.

[0104] Linear transmission members 22 are fitted into the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d of the spacer 60. Therefore, the filler is less likely to flow out from the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d. For example, it is preferable to use a filler with a viscosity such that outflow from the gap between the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d and the linear transmission members 22 is suppressed.

[0105] The linear transmission members 22 that emerge from the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d of the spacer 60 branch out appropriately within the space inside the housing 40 and extend to the outside through the branching regions 41b, 41c, and 41d.

[0106] The bottom portion 42 may be provided with an inspection window portion 42h. The inspection window portion 42h opens to both the inside of the filling space S and the space outside the housing 40. Therefore, by looking at the inspection window portion 42h from outside the housing 40, the inside of the filling space S can be seen.

[0107] The inspection window 42h should be formed in a position that allows confirmation of the filling state of the filling section 32. For example, the inspection window 42h may be formed in the area below the part of the bottom 42 where the outer casing 29 is located. This makes it easy to confirm whether the filling section 32 has sufficiently reached the outer casing 29. For example, the inspection window 42h may be formed in a position closer to the support wall 47 than the positioning projection 42p. This makes it easy to confirm whether a sufficient amount of the filling section 32 has been supplied out of the space between the opening 29h and the spacer 60.

[0108] The location of the inspection window 42h may be elsewhere. The number of inspection windows 42h is arbitrary. The inspection windows 42h should be formed to a size that prevents the filler from leaking out, taking into consideration the viscosity of the filler forming the filling portion 32.

[0109] <Lid> The housing 40 may include a lid 50. The lid 50 closes the filling portion 32 on the side opposite to the bottom portion 42.

[0110] For example, the lid portion 50 is formed in a plate shape that extends to the same shape as the bottom portion 42. Therefore, the lid portion 50 can close the space surrounded by the side walls 43, 44, 45, and 46 on the opposite side from the bottom portion 42. It can also close the space surrounded by the side walls 43, 44, the support wall 47, and the spacer 60 on the opposite side from the bottom portion 42.

[0111] The lid portion 50 may have a pressing piece 51 at a position facing the support wall 47. The pressing piece 51 may have an arc-shaped recess that follows a part of the outer circumference shape of the exterior portion 29. With the lid portion 50 placed over the housing body 41, the exterior portion 29, which is fitted into the exterior portion holding recess 47g, may be held in place by being sandwiched between the support wall 47 and the pressing piece 51 of the lid portion 50.

[0112] The lid portion 50 may also have a pressing piece 52 at a position facing the outer support wall 48.

[0113] The lid portion 50 may have tube positioning projections that position the corrugated tube 24 at a position opposite to the branching regions 41b, 41c, and 41d.

[0114] It is not mandatory for the housing 40 to have a lid portion 50. In this case, the outer casing 29 and the corrugated tube 24 may be fastened to the housing body 41 with fastening members such as cable ties or adhesive tape.

[0115] Furthermore, the filling portion 32 may be largely exposed from the side walls 43, 44, support wall 47, and spacer 60 on the opposite side from the bottom portion 42.

[0116] The fixing structure of the lid 50 to the housing body 41 is not particularly limited. For example, a locking projection 42a may be formed on the outward-facing surfaces of the side walls 43, 44, and 45, and a U-shaped locking piece 58 may protrude from the periphery of the lid 50 toward the outward-facing surfaces of the side walls 43, 44, and 45. The locking projection 42a may then fit into an opening within the locking piece 58 and lock into the locking piece 58, thereby keeping the lid 50 attached to the housing body 41.

[0117] The housing body 41 and the lid 50 may be kept in a joined state by screwing, adhesive, welding, or the like.

[0118] The housing 40 may have a filling port 56. The filling port 56 opens to the filling space S and the outer space of the housing 40.

[0119] In this embodiment, the filling port 56 is an opening that penetrates the lid portion 50 in its thickness direction. The position of the filling port 56 is arbitrary. For example, the filling port 56 may be located between the spacer 60 and the opening 29h. The filling port 56 may be located such that at least a portion of the gap between the extension sections 22E2 is visible.

[0120] A filler for forming the filled portion 32 can be filled into the filled space S through the filling port 56.

[0121] The shape and position of the filling port 56 are arbitrary. For example, the filling port may be circular, elliptical, square, or other polygonal. The filling port may also be a tubular shape that protrudes outward or inward.

[0122] If the lid portion 50 is omitted, the filling port is an opening in the housing body 41 that is located on the opposite side from the bottom 42 within the space enclosed by the side walls 43, 44, the support wall 47, and the spacer 60.

[0123] The lid portion 50 may have a plurality of protrusions 53 that close the partial spaces on the opening side of each slit 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d of the spacer 60. The protrusions 53 should be able to close the remaining spaces of the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d in which the linear transmission member 22 is fitted. The protrusions 53 push the linear transmission member 22 further into the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d, thereby stabilizing the position of the linear transmission member 22. In addition, it becomes less likely for the filler to leak from the slits 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d.

[0124] <Effects, etc.> With the watertight structure 30 and wire harness 10 of the linear transmission member 22 configured in this way, the spacer 60 keeps at least a portion of one extension section 22E2 separated from at least a portion of the other extension section 22E2 within the filling space S. As a result, the filling portion 32 filled in the filling space S can easily penetrate between the extension sections 22E2. Therefore, water is less likely to flow through the extension sections 22E2. In addition, the opening 29h is more easily sealed. This further improves the watertightness of the opening 29h of the exterior part 29.

[0125] Furthermore, a watertight structure is formed by housing a portion of the wiring component 20 in the housing 40 and filling the filling space S with a filler material. Compared to a configuration in which, for example, a rubber stopper is attached to the opening of the exterior and then covered with a separate housing, the number of parts and manufacturing man-hours are reduced, making it possible to lower costs.

[0126] Furthermore, since the housing 40 has a filling port 56, the filling material for forming the filling portion 32 can be easily filled into the filling space S using the filling port 56.

[0127] Furthermore, by making the filling portion 32 exhibit a different color from the housing 40, the condition of the filling portion 32 relative to the housing 40 can be easily confirmed.

[0128] Furthermore, in the housing 40, the spacer 60 faces the support wall 47 with a gap between them, and the exterior part 29 is fitted into the exterior part holding recess 47g with the opening 29h located between the support wall 47 and the spacer 60. As a result, the state of each extension section 22E2 extending from the opening 29h is stabilized. Therefore, the filling section 32 can be interposed more reliably between the support wall 47 and the opening 29h, and between each extension section 22E2, further improving the watertightness of the exterior part 29 at the opening 29h.

[0129] Furthermore, since the spacer 60 protrudes from the bottom 42, the spacer 60 can be easily integrally formed with the housing body 41 which has the bottom 42, a pair of side walls 43, 44 and a support wall 47.

[0130] Furthermore, the spacer 60 can be easily used as a partition to form the filled space S.

[0131] Furthermore, the spacer 60 has multiple slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d, and positions one extension section 22E2 with another extension section 22E2 using separate slits. Therefore, by fitting each extension section 22E2 into separate slits 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d, the spacer 60 can easily form a space for filling between the extension sections 22E2.

[0132] Furthermore, the positioning projection 42p contacts the edge of the opening 29h, causing the opening 29h and the spacer 60 to be positioned apart. This makes it easier for the multiple extension sections 22E2 to be positioned apart from each other between the opening 29h and the spacer 60. As a result, the filling section 32 can more easily fill the gaps between the multiple extension sections 22E2, further improving watertightness.

[0133] Furthermore, since the bottom portion 42 has a viewing window portion 42h, the filling state of the filling portion 32 can be easily confirmed by visually inspecting the viewing window portion 42h.

[0134] If the filled portion 32 is a different color from the housing 40, it is easy to check whether the filler has reached the position of the inspection window 42h by looking at the inspection window 42h.

[0135] Furthermore, because the housing 40 has a lid portion 50, the portion of the linear transmission member 22 that extends from the outer casing portion 29 and the filling portion 32 are protected by the lid portion 50.

[0136] Furthermore, the outer casing 29 is held in place by being sandwiched between the support wall 47 and the lid 50. This stabilizes the position of the outer casing 29, and also stabilizes the state of the multiple extension sections 22E2 in the filling space S. As a result, the filling section 32 can easily and stably fill the gaps in the extension sections 22E2.

[0137] [Differentiation] Figure 7 is a side view showing a water-stopping structure 130 according to modified example 1.

[0138] As shown in the figure, the filling portion 32 may protrude outward from the filling port 56. The filling portion 32 only needs to be outside the periphery of the filling port 56. The filling portion 32 may protrude from the filling port 56 by an amount corresponding to the surface tension of the filler material.

[0139] When the filler forming the filling portion 32 sufficiently fills the filling space S, any excess filler will be observed to bulge outwards from the filling port 56. Therefore, if it is confirmed that the filling portion 32 is protruding outwards from the filling port 56, it is easy to confirm whether the filling space S is filled with the filling portion 32.

[0140] For example, if the linear transmission members 22 are incorrect, the protrusion of the filled portion 32 from the filling port 56 may differ when the predetermined amount of filler assumed in the design is filled into the filling space S. For instance, if the linear transmission members 22 are thinner or there are fewer of them compared to the original design, the amount of protrusion of the filled portion 32 from the filling port 56 may be smaller or not protrusion at all. Also, for example, if the linear transmission members 22 are thicker or there are more of them compared to the original design, the amount of protrusion of the filled portion 32 from the filling port 56 may be larger or it may spill out. Therefore, by checking the protrusion of the filled portion 32 from the filling port 56, it is possible to confirm if the linear transmission members 22 have been assembled incorrectly.

[0141] Furthermore, the filling portion 32 may protrude outward from the inspection window portion 42h. The filling portion 32 only needs to be outside the periphery of the inspection window portion 42h. If the filler forming the filling portion 32 fills the filling space S and extends to the position where the inspection window portion 42h is formed, it is expected that the filler will leak out from the inspection window portion 42h and protrude to the outside. Therefore, if it is confirmed that the filling portion 32 is protruding outward from the inspection window portion 42h, it is easy to confirm whether the filling portion 32 has extended throughout the filling space S.

[0142] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a water-stopping structure 30 according to modified example 2.

[0143] As shown in the figure, the housing 40 has a marker 256a located on the inner circumferential surface of the filling port 56.

[0144] The marker 256a is, for example, a protrusion that partially extends from the inner circumferential surface of the filling port 56. The marker 256a may be located inside the outer edge in the thickness direction of the filling port 56. The marker 256a may be located inside the inner edge in the thickness direction of the filling port 56.

[0145] If the filling portion 32 is filled to the extent that it exceeds the marker 256a, the marker 256a will become difficult to see. Therefore, after the filling portion 32 is formed, it is easy to confirm whether a sufficient amount of filler has been supplied and the filling portion 32 has been formed by visually checking the state of the marker 256a.

[0146] The marker only needs to be visually recognizable and does not have to be a protrusion. For example, the marker 256b may be a mark printed on the inner circumferential surface of the filling port 56 using paint or a laser. The mark may be a line, a symbol, or a letter. By confirming whether the filling portion 32 hides the marker 256b, that is, whether the marker 256b is visible in the filling port 56, it is easy to confirm whether a sufficient amount of filler has been supplied and whether the filling portion 32 has been formed.

[0147] Furthermore, the configuration in which the spacer 60 keeps the linear transmission member 22 separated is not limited to the above example. For example, the extended sections of the linear transmission member may be positioned at vertically separated locations in the depth direction of the filling space, thereby forming a gap between the extended sections.

[0148] Furthermore, the configurations described in each of the above embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 10 Wire Harnesses 20 Wiring components 22 Linear transmission member 22E1 Exterior Section 22E2 Extension Section 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f Linear transmission members 24 corrugated tubing Connectors 25, 26, 27, 28 29 Exterior part 29h opening 30. Water-stopping structure 32 Filling section 40 Housing 41 Housing body 41a Rectangular area part 41b, 41c, 41d Branching region 42 Bottom 42a Locking protrusion 42h Confirmation window 42p Positioning protrusion 42t Tube positioning projection 43, 44, 45, 46 side wall 47 Supporting wall 47g Retaining recess in the outer casing 48 External support wall 48g recess 50 Lid 51, 52 Pressing piece 53 Protrusion 56 Filling port 58 Locking piece 60 Spacer 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d Slit 130 Water-stopping structure Landmarks 256a, 256b S filling space

Claims

1. A wiring member including a first linear transmission member, a second linear transmission member, and an outer casing having an opening, A housing having a filling space, A filling portion filled in the aforementioned filling space, Spacer and, Equipped with, The first linear transmission member has a first outer casing section and a first extension section, The second linear transmission member has a second outer casing section and a second extension section, The exterior portion covers the first exterior section and the second exterior section. The first extension section and the second extension section extend from the exterior section through the opening, With the opening positioned within the filling space, the housing covers the wiring member. The spacer is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member that keeps at least a portion of the first extension section and at least a portion of the second extension section separated within the filled space.

2. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 1, The housing is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member, having a filling port that opens to the filling space and the space outside the housing.

3. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 2, The filling portion is a watertight structure for the linear transmission member that protrudes outward from the filling opening.

4. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 2 or claim 3, The filling portion is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member exhibiting a different color from the housing.

5. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 2 or claim 3, The housing is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member, having a marker located on the inner circumferential surface of the filling port.

6. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 1 or claim 2, The housing includes a housing body having a bottom, a pair of side walls protruding from the bottom, and a support wall protruding from the bottom. The pair of side walls are separated and face each other, The support wall is located between the pair of side walls and has an exterior part holding recess into which the exterior part is fitted. The aforementioned filling space is the space enclosed by the pair of side walls and the support wall, The spacer is positioned opposite the support wall with a gap between them, With the opening positioned between the support wall and the spacer, the exterior part is fitted into the exterior part holding recess. The filling portion is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member, which is filled into the filling space between the support wall and the opening, and interposed between the first extension section and the second extension section.

7. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 6, The spacer is a watertight structure for the linear transmission member, protruding from the bottom.

8. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 7, A watertight structure for a linear transmission member, wherein the space enclosed by the bottom, the pair of side walls, the support wall, and the spacer is the filling space.

9. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 8, The spacer is a watertight structure for a linear transmission member, having a first slit for positioning the first extension section and a second slit for positioning the second extension section.

10. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 6, The housing body has a positioning projection that protrudes from the bottom toward the filling space, The positioning projection is located between the spacer and the support wall, away from the spacer, and contacts the edge of the exterior part on the opening side, thus providing a watertight structure for a linear transmission member.

11. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 6, The bottom portion has a viewing window that opens to the inside of the filling space and the space outside the housing, providing a watertight structure for a linear transmission member.

12. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 6, The housing further has a lid portion that closes the filling space on the opposite side from the bottom portion, providing a watertight structure for a linear transmission member.

13. A watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to claim 12, A watertight structure for a linear transmission member, wherein the exterior part, which is fitted into the exterior part holding recess, is sandwiched between the support wall and the lid.

14. A wire harness comprising a watertight structure for a linear transmission member according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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