Connectors and wire harnesses
The connector design with locking mechanisms in the first and second covers and a sealing portion addresses the issue of unintentional disengagement, improving waterproof and dustproof performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- YAZAKI CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-23
AI Technical Summary
Existing connectors face challenges in preventing the unintentional disengagement of sealing components, which compromises the waterproof and dustproof performance.
A connector design featuring a connector housing, first and second covers, and a sealing portion with locking mechanisms that include a first and second locking portion and a flange portion, arranged to minimize the movement of sealing components, ensuring they remain securely in place.
The design effectively reduces the likelihood of unintentional disengagement of sealing components, enhancing the waterproof and dustproof performance of the connector.
Smart Images

Figure 2026101696000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector and a wire harness.
Background Art
[0002] It is known to perform wiring by bending an electric wire with a terminal.
[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses "a waterproof structure of a connector including a housing that holds a terminal and has an opening, a cover, and a packing." The cover closes the opening. The packing is attached to the cover and seals between the housing and the cover at the opening. The cover has a through hole and a protruding portion protruding from the outer surface of the cover. The packing has a main body sandwiched between the housing and the cover and a locked portion connected to the main body. The locked portion protrudes into the external space of the cover from the through hole in the protruding direction of the protruding portion. It is locked by the protruding portion at least in a direction orthogonal to the protruding direction of the protruding portion.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0004]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0005] In the invention according to Patent Document 1, the movement of the locked portion toward the tip of the protruding portion is suppressed, and it is difficult for the locked portion to come off from the protruding portion. Therefore, it has the effect of suppressing the packing from coming off unintentionally.
[0006] By the way, depending on the connector, it may be further required to suppress the packing from coming off unintentionally.
[0007] One embodiment aims to provide a connector and a wire harness. [Means for solving the problem]
[0008] A connector according to one embodiment comprises a connector housing, a first cover, a second cover, and a sealing portion. The connector housing has a mating portion that can be mated with a mating connector in a first direction. The first cover has a first opening and covers the connector housing from the opposite side of the mating portion in the first direction. The second cover has a second opening and covers the first opening. The sealing portion is an elastic body extending in the first direction and includes a first locking portion, a second locking portion, and a flange portion. The connector housing has a base portion having either a hole or a recess in the first direction. The first locking portion is attached to the base portion in one of the directions. The second locking portion protrudes outward from the second cover through the first and second openings in the first direction. The flange portion has a first surface that contacts the second cover. The first cover has a wall portion that covers the second locking portion in a second direction. The wall portion is aligned with the second cover in the second direction. The second direction intersects the first direction. [Effects of the Invention]
[0009] According to one embodiment, the likelihood of the packing coming off unintentionally is reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0010] [Figure 1] A perspective view I showing the connector of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Perspective view II showing the connector of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A plan view showing the connector of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A cross-sectional view of the connector shown in Figure 3, along the F4-F4 line. [Figure 5] A magnified view of a portion of the connector shown in Figure 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0011] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The drawings and specific configurations used in each embodiment should not be used to interpret the disclosure. In all drawings, identical or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and common descriptions are omitted.
[0012] In this disclosure, the +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are defined as follows: The -Z direction is the direction in which mating with the mating connector occurs. The +Z direction is the opposite direction to the -Z direction. Hereinafter, when the -Z direction and the +Z direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Z direction". The X direction is the direction that intersects (e.g., is orthogonal to) the Z direction. The -X direction is one of the X directions. The +X direction is the opposite direction to the -X direction. Hereinafter, when the -X direction and the +X direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "X direction". The -Y direction and the +Y direction are directions that intersect (e.g., are orthogonal to) the Z direction and the X direction. Hereinafter, when the -Y direction and the +Y direction are not distinguished, they will simply be referred to as the "Y direction". The Z direction is an example of a "first direction". The X direction is an example of a "second direction". The Y direction is an example of a "third direction".
[0013] The above expressions are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the insertion / removal direction of connector 200.
[0014] <First Embodiment> The following describes a wire harness 300 according to one embodiment, with reference to the figures. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a wire harness 300 according to the first embodiment. The connector 200 is a connecting component for electrically connecting the electric wire 101 and a mating portion of the other party described later. The connector 200 is, for example, a connector used in a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle), an HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle).
[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the wire harness 300 includes a connector 200 and at least one or more terminal wires 100. The wire harness 300 is a wire with a connector including a connector 200 assembled to the end of the terminal wire 100. At least one or more terminal wires 100 are inserted into the connector 200 according to the number of poles of the connector 200. For example, in the present embodiment, the wire harness 300 includes two terminal wires 100 and a two-pole connector 200.
[0016] First, the terminal wire 100 will be described.
[0017] (Configuration of Terminal Wire) The terminal wire 100 includes an electric wire 101 and a terminal portion 102. The electric wire 101 includes a core wire 101A that is a conductor and a covering portion 101B that covers the core wire. At the end of the electric wire 101, the covering portion 101B is partially peeled off and the core wire 101A is exposed.
[0018] (Configuration of Terminal Portion) The terminal portion 102 is formed of a conductive material such as metal. For example, the terminal portion 102 is formed into a predetermined shape by press forming such as bending or cutting a metal plate as a base material.
[0019] This terminal portion 102 has a terminal connection portion 102A and a wire connection portion 102B. The terminal connection portion 102A is capable of fitting to a terminal connection portion 511 of a mating terminal fitting 510. The wire connection portion 102B is electrically connected to a core wire 101A exposed at an end of the wire 101.
[0020] In the terminal connection portion 102A, when the terminal connection portion 511 is fitted along the first direction (Z direction), the terminal connection portion 102A is electrically connected to the terminal fitting 510. The terminal connection portion 102A has spring characteristics and applies a spring force between it and the terminal connection portion 511, capable of maintaining the connection state between the contacts. The spring force acts in a direction intersecting the first direction. Examples of the terminal connection portion 102A where the spring force acts are as follows. For example, when the terminal connection portion 102A has a cylindrical female terminal shape, a contact spring may be separately assembled inside the cylinder so that the terminal connection portion 102A may have spring characteristics. Also, when the cylindrical portion of the terminal connection portion 102A is curved, slits may be provided in the cylindrical portion so that the terminal connection portion 102A may have spring characteristics. For example, in the present embodiment, the terminal connection portion 102A has a cylindrical female terminal shape, and a contact spring is separately assembled inside this cylinder. According to the shape of the terminal connection portion 102A, the terminal connection portion 511 is formed in an axial male terminal shape that fits inside the terminal connection portion 102A. Note that in the terminal connection portion 102A, the axis of the terminal connection portion 102A is along the first direction.
[0021] The wire connection portion 102B is electrically connected to the core wire 101A exposed at an end of the wire 101. For example, the terminal portion 102 is assembled to the end of the wire 101 by crimping the exposed core wire 101A of the wire connection portion 102B or by welding the exposed core wire 101A to the wire connection portion 102B.
[0022] (Configuration of the Connector) Connector 200 engages with the mating portion (not shown) of the mating device by inserting its mating portion 20a in the -Z direction. Through this engagement, connector 200 is electrically connected to terminal fitting 510 (see Figure 4). Terminal fitting 510 is provided on the terminal block or connector of the mating device. The electrical connection between connector 200 and terminal fitting 510 electrically connects the wire harness 300 to the mating device. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, connector 200 comprises a connector housing 21, at least one terminal holding member 22, a sealing member 23, a sealing member 24, a sealing member 25, a wire holder 26, a shield shell 27, a braided member 28, a sealing ring 29, a first cover 99A, a second cover 99B, a sealing member 99C, and a fixing member 99D.
[0023] In the connector 200 of this embodiment, the connector housing 21, the sealing member 99C, the first cover 99A, and the second cover 99B are arranged in that order outward from the connector housing 21. In this case, the sealing member 99C protrudes outward from the connector housing 21 through a part of the first cover 99A. The sealing member 99C also protrudes outward from the connector housing 21 through a part of the second cover 99B. The sealing member 99C in this embodiment is a rod-shaped sealing member extending in the first direction (for example, the Z direction). The main part of the sealing member 99C may be formed in an annular shape, and a rod-shaped sealing portion extending in the first direction may be provided on the main part. In this case, a rod-shaped sealing portion is not required to be provided on the main part. That is, a protruding sealing portion may be provided on the main part instead of a rod-shaped sealing portion. It is sufficient that the sealing member 99C protrudes outward from the connector housing 21 through a part of the first cover 99A and a part of the second cover 99B. The sealing member 99C is molded from an elastic material such as synthetic rubber.
[0024] The connector 200 has multiple combinations of wires 101 and terminals 102. For example, the connector 200 in this embodiment has two such combinations by having two terminal holding members 22 (see Figure 3). In the connector 200, two terminals 102 (terminal 102L and terminal 102R) are arranged side by side in the X direction. In this connector 200, two wires 101 are arranged side by side and run parallel to each other.
[0025] In the following, the insertion direction of the mating portion 20a of connector 200 relative to the mating portion of the other connector is the -Z direction. Also, the withdrawal direction of the mating portion 20a of connector 200 relative to the mating portion of the other connector is the +Z direction.
[0026] The connector housing 21 is insulating and houses the electric wire 101 and terminal portion 102. The connector housing 21 is molded from an insulating material such as synthetic resin. The connector housing 21 comprises a front holder 20U, a housing body 20V, and a cover member 20W.
[0027] The front holder 20U covers the outer circumferential surface of the fitting portion 20a of the housing body 20V. The front holder 20U is a rectangular tubular component. The front holder 20U and the fitting portion 20a are assembled by mechanical fastening such as a snap fit.
[0028] The housing body 20V is a frame that opens in the Z direction. The housing body 20V has multiple openings in the Z direction. In this embodiment, the housing body 20V has a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is an opening for drawing out the electric wire 101. The second opening is an opening for partially housing the terminal holding member 22. In this embodiment, the first housing portion 20d is given as an example of the first opening, and the second housing portion 20e is given as an example of the second opening. The housing body 20V and the cover member 20W are assembled by mechanical joining such as a snap fit. The housing body 20V includes a fitting portion 20a, a flange portion 20b, an outlet 20c, at least one first housing portion 20d, at least one second housing portion 20e, a locking portion 20f, and a fixing portion 20g.
[0029] The cover member 20W is plate-shaped and oriented in the X and Y directions. The cover member 20W has a first surface 20W1 and a second surface 20W2. The first surface 20W1 faces the first cover 99A. The second surface 20W2 faces the housing body 20V. A stepped surface 20W3 is formed on the side surface of the cover member 20W, connecting the first surface 20W1 and the second surface 20W2. A sealing member 24 is assembled to the stepped surface 20W3. The cover member 20W covers the opening in the housing body 20V.
[0030] As described above, in the connector 200, the connector housing 21, sealing member 99C, first cover 99A, and second cover 99B are arranged in that order outward from the connector housing 21. In this case, the connector housing 21 has a base portion 20k having either a hole or a recess in the first direction (for example, the Z direction). In the connector housing 21 of this embodiment, the cover member 20W has a base portion 20k having either a hole or a recess in the first direction (for example, the Z direction). The base portion 20k protrudes toward the opening 99Aop, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the tip surface of the base portion 20k is located on the +Z direction side of the first surface 20W1. The first locking portion 99Ca of the sealing member 99C is attached to the base portion 20k. In this case, the base portion 20k may have an inclined surface 20W4. The inclined surface 20W4 is a surface corresponding to the shape of the first locking portion 99Ca. The inclined surface 20W4 is tilted to widen towards the first opening 99Aop.
[0031] The following details the configuration of the 20V housing unit.
[0032] The mating portion 20a is a cylindrical member having an axis in the insertion / removal direction relative to the mating portion. For example, in this embodiment, the mating portion 20a is formed in a rectangular tubular shape. As described above, the front holder 20U and the mating portion 20a are assembled by mechanical joining such as a snap fit.
[0033] The flange portion 20b limits the engagement length of the mating portion 20a with the mating portion of the mating connector when the connector 200 is mated with the mating portion of the mating connector. The flange portion 20b protrudes outward from a part of the outer circumferential surface of the mating portion 20a from the connector 200.
[0034] For example, the connector 200 is configured such that a fitting portion 20a can be fitted in the insertion direction into a mating portion of the mating connector which has an inner circumferential wall surface and is shaped like a hole. In this connector 200, the fitting portion 20a is inserted into and removed from the mating portion of the mating connector which is shaped like a hole, along the axis direction of the hole of the mating connector. The mating portion of the mating connector is formed, for example, with a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the axis direction of the hole. Alternatively, the mating portion of the mating connector may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and the fitting portion 20a can be fitted into the space inside it.
[0035] The outlet 20c is an opening for drawing out the electric wire 101, which is routed from the second housing section 20e to the first housing section 20d, to the outside of the connector 200. In this embodiment, the first housing section 20d and the outlet 20c are in communication. Because the first housing section 20d and the outlet 20c are in communication, the outlet 20c in this embodiment opens in the Z direction. The outlet 20c partially houses the electric wire holder 26. The direction in which the outlet 20c opens determines the routing direction of the electric wire 101 from the inside to the outside of the connector 200. Note that the outlet 20c may also house the entire electric wire holder 26.
[0036] The first housing section 20d houses the sealing member 25. The first housing section 20d is provided on the housing body 20V. The housed sealing member 25 is positioned inside the connector 200, relative to the wire holder 26.
[0037] The second housing section 20e houses the terminal retaining member 22. At least one second housing section 20e is provided on the housing body 20V. The housed terminal retaining member 22 is held inside the mating portion 20a. At this time, a part of the terminal retaining member 22 protrudes from the periphery of the mating portion 20a. When the terminal retaining member 22 is held by the second housing section 20e and the locking portion 20f, the movement of the terminal retaining member 22 in the connector 200 is suppressed by the second housing section 20e.
[0038] As described above, in this embodiment, the connector housing 21 houses the terminal portion 102 of the electric wire 101 in the second housing portion 20e located inside the connector 200, and allows the electric wire 101 to be pulled out from the outlet 20c toward the outside of the connector 200 in a direction along the insertion / removal direction of the connector 200.
[0039] The locking portion 20f holds the terminal holding member 22 housed in the second housing portion 20e. For example, in this embodiment, the locking portion 20f is a fitting claw, and the locking state of the fitting claw is maintained by the locked portion 222 provided on the terminal holding member 22. The fitting claw (locking portion 20f) and the locked portion 222 are assembled by snap fitting.
[0040] For example, in this embodiment, the housing body 20V has a locking portion 20f for each terminal holding member 22. Also, as shown in Figure 4, the housing body 20V having a pair of locking portions 20f and a pair of locked portions 222 makes it easier for the terminal holding member 22 to be held in the second housing portion 20e. For example, in this embodiment, the pair of locking portions 20f are aligned along the Y direction.
[0041] The fixing portion 20g is a mounting portion for assembling the shield shell 27. The fixing portion 20g has an insertion hole through which a fastening member (e.g., a screw or bolt) not shown can be inserted.
[0042] The terminal holding member 22 holds the terminal portion 102. The terminal holding member 22 is housed in the second housing portion 20e. The terminal holding member 22 is molded from an insulating material such as synthetic resin. The terminal holding member 22 is capable of housing the terminal portion 102 inside in a manner that allows the terminal connection portion 511 to be inserted and removed. The terminal holding member 22 is held inside the fitting portion 20a. The terminal holding member 22 may be provided for each electric wire 101, or it may be provided as a single component capable of holding multiple terminal portions 102. For example, in this embodiment, the terminal holding member 22 is provided for each terminal portion 102.
[0043] The terminal holding member 22 includes a cylindrical portion 221 for housing the terminal connection portion 102A and a locking portion 222. The locking portion 222 is responsible for maintaining the locked state of the locking portion 20f. The locking portion 222 has a hole into which it can be fitted with the locking portion 20f.
[0044] When the terminal holding member 22 is inserted into the housing body 20V from the +Z direction to the -Z direction, it is locked by the locking portion 20f and the terminal holding member 22 is held in the second housing portion 20e.
[0045] The sealing member 23 fills the gap between the front holder 20U and the housing body 20V, providing waterproofing and dustproofing at the connector 200 assembly location. The sealing member 23 is assembled to the outer circumferential surface of the mating portion 20a. The sealing member 23 is molded from an elastic material such as synthetic rubber.
[0046] The sealing member 24 fills the gap between the inner wall of the housing body 20V and the cover member 20W, providing waterproofing and dustproofing at the connector 200 assembly location. The sealing member 24 is assembled to the stepped surface 20W3 formed on the cover member 20W. The sealing member 24 is molded from an elastic material such as synthetic rubber. For example, the sealing member 24 is molded into an annular shape and sandwiched between the housing body 20V and the cover member 20W.
[0047] The sealing member 25 fills the gap between the inner wall of the housing body 20V in the first housing section 20d and the electric wire 101, and has the function of waterproofing and dustproofing at the outlet 20c. The sealing member 25 is molded from an elastic material such as synthetic rubber. The sealing member 25 may be provided for each electric wire 101, or it may be provided to fill the gap between the inner wall of the housing body 20V in the first housing section 20d and multiple electric wires 101. For example, in this embodiment, the sealing member 25 is provided to fill the gap between the inner wall of the housing body 20V in the first housing section 20d and two electric wires 101.
[0048] The wire holder 26 holds the electric wire 101. The wire holder 26 is housed in the first housing section 20d. The wire holder 26 is molded from an insulating material such as synthetic resin. The wire holder 26 may be provided for each electric wire 101, or it may be provided as a single component capable of holding multiple electric wires 101. For example, in this embodiment, the wire holder 26 is provided as a single component capable of holding two electric wires 101.
[0049] The wire holder 26 and the housing body 20V are assembled by mechanical fastening such as a snap fit. The wire holder 26 is provided with a through hole through which the wire 101 can be inserted and which can hold the wire 101. When the wire 101 is inserted into the wire holder 26, the wire 101 is held in the first housing section 20d. In the second direction (for example, the X direction), the wire holder 26 holds one wire 101 and the other wire 101 apart from each other.
[0050] The shield shell 27 prevents noise generated outside the connector 200 from entering the connector 200. The shield shell 27 covers a portion of the connector housing 21 so that the wires 101 and / or terminals 102 incorporated in the connector housing 21 are less susceptible to noise interference. The shield shell 27 is formed from a conductive material such as metal.
[0051] The shield shell 27 has a cylindrical portion 271 and a flange portion 272 provided at one end of the cylindrical portion 271. The cylindrical portion 271 is open in the Z direction and covers the housing body 20V with this opening. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 271 is located on the side of the first housing portion 20d. In this case, the electric wire 101 is inserted through the cylindrical portion 271. The flange portion 272 covers a portion of the electric wire 101 routed from the second housing portion 20e to the first housing portion 20d. The flange portion 272 is a plate-shaped member extending along the X and Y directions. The flange portion 272 has a through hole 272c through which a fastening member 71 (for example, a screw or bolt) can be inserted. The cylindrical portion 271 may also be located on the side of the first housing portion 20d.
[0052] The braided member 28 is placed in close contact with the cylindrical portion 271 of the shield shell 27, covering the electric wire 101 that passes through the cylindrical portion 271. The braided member 28 is woven into a mesh-like cylindrical shape and is conductive.
[0053] The seal ring 29, when crimped, clamps the braided member 28 together with the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 271. The seal ring 29 is an annular member that follows the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 271.
[0054] The first cover 99A, the second cover 99B, and the sealing member 99C will be described in detail below.
[0055] (Structure of the first cover 99A) The first cover 99A, like the shield shell 27, suppresses noise generated outside the connector 200 from entering the connector 200. The first cover 99A has a shape that conforms to the outer shape of the connector housing 21 so that the wires 101 and / or terminals 102 incorporated in the connector housing 21 are less susceptible to noise. The first cover 99A is molded from a conductive material such as metal.
[0056] As shown in Figure 5, the first cover 99A has an opening 99Aop. The first cover 99A covers the connector housing 21 from the side opposite to the mating portion 20a in the first direction (e.g., the Z direction). In this embodiment, the first cover 99A covers the connector housing 21 from the -Z direction side.
[0057] The first cover 99A has at least one wall portion 99AW. The wall portion 99AW covers the second locking portion 99Cb in a direction intersecting the first direction (for example, the Y direction, the X direction). For example, when viewed from a direction intersecting the first direction, the second locking portion 99Cb is blocked by the wall portion 99AW.
[0058] For example, the first cover 99A may cover the second locking portion 99Cb in a second direction (e.g., the X direction) and a third direction (e.g., the Y direction). For example, the first cover 99A in this embodiment has four wall portions 99AW. The first cover 99A in this embodiment has two wall portions 99AW in the second direction. Each wall portion 99AW has a short edge aligned with the second direction and covers the second locking portion 99Cb in the second direction. For the wall portions 99AW in the second direction, one wall portion 99AW is aligned with the other wall portion 99AW with the second cover 99B in between. The first cover 99A in this embodiment has two wall portions 99AW in the third direction. Each wall portion 99AW has a short edge aligned with the third direction and covers the second locking portion 99Cb in the third direction. For the wall portions 99AW in the third direction, one wall portion 99AW is aligned with the other wall portion 99AW in the second direction.
[0059] Each wall section 99AW is aligned in a direction that intersects the first direction with respect to the second cover 99B (for example, in the Y direction and X direction).
[0060] The first cover 99A has a fixing portion 99Da. A fixing member 99D is fixed to the fixing portion 99Da in a first direction. The fixing member 99D fixes the first cover 99A and the second cover 99B in a first direction (for example, the Z direction). For example, when the fixing member 99D is a screw or bolt, a through hole is formed in the fixing portion 99Da through which the screw or bolt can be inserted.
[0061] Furthermore, the wall portion 99AW may be positioned on the rotational trajectory of the second cover 99B around the axis of the insertion hole formed in the fixing portion 99Da. That is, the wall portion 99AW may be positioned on the rotational trajectory of the second cover 99B fixed to the fixing member 99D.
[0062] Furthermore, the first cover 99A is provided with two fixing portions 99Agg. The fixing portions 99Agg have through holes formed in the fixing portion 20g through which fastening members 72 (for example, screws or bolts) can be inserted.
[0063] Furthermore, the first cover 99A is provided with a fixing portion 99Ag. The fixing portion 99Ag has a screw thread, and the housing body 20V described above is provided with a fixing portion 20g corresponding to the fixing portion 99Ag for attachment to the fixing portion 99Ag.
[0064] In this embodiment, the connector 200 is fastened to the other device using two fixing parts 99Agg provided on the first cover 99A. The first cover 99A, the shield shell 27, and the braided member 28 are electrically connected to the other device via the fastening member 71, thereby suppressing noise directed inward from the connector 200.
[0065] (Structure of the second cover 99B) As shown in Figure 5, the second cover 99B covers the opening 99Aop. The second cover 99B has an insertion hole through which the fixing member 99D can be inserted. The second cover 99B has an opening 99Bop. In this embodiment, the second cover 99B has two openings 99Bop. The second cover 99B is molded from a conductive material such as metal. When viewed from the first direction, the second cover 99B is positioned such that a part of the second cover 99B overlaps a part of the first cover 99A.
[0066] (Configuration of sealing member 99C) The sealing member 99C fills the gap between the first cover 99A and the second cover 99B, ensuring waterproofing and dustproofing at the opening 99Aop. The gap is filled when the second locking portion 99Cb protrudes outward from the second cover 99B through the openings 99Aop and 99Bop.
[0067] The sealing member 99C extends in a first direction (for example, the Z direction). The sealing member 99C includes a first locking portion 99Ca, a second locking portion 99Cb, and a flange portion 99Cc. The sealing member 99C has a first surface 99C1 and a second surface 99C2. The first surface 99C1 extends along the X and Y directions and is the surface that contacts the second cover 99B. The second surface 99C2 is the surface that faces either the hole or the recess of the base portion 20k.
[0068] The first locking portion 99Ca is attached to the base portion 20k in either a hole or a recess in the base portion 20k. In this case, the sealing member 99C may have the following surface: The sealing member 99C has a second surface 99C2 in either the hole or the recess, from the first locking portion 99Ca to the flange portion 99Cc, the diameter of which gradually increases.
[0069] In this embodiment, the second locking portion 99Cb protrudes outward from the second cover 99B through the openings 99Aop and 99Bop in the first direction.
[0070] (Configuration of fixing member 99D) As described above, the fixing member 99D fixes the first cover 99A and the second cover 99B in the first direction (for example, the Z direction). An example of the fixing member 99D is a screw or bolt, a nut, or a rivet. The fixing member 99D may also cover the second locking portion 99Cb in directions intersecting the first direction (for example, the Y direction, the X direction). For example, when viewed from a direction intersecting the first direction, the second locking portion 99Cb is blocked by the fixing member 99D. For example, the head of the screw or bolt which is the fixing member 99D may cover the second locking portion 99Cb.
[0071] The first cover 99A and the second cover 99B are fixed together by the fixing member 99D, which makes it easier to fill the gap between the opening 99Aop and the opening 99Bop. A gasket or packing may be placed between the first cover 99A and the second cover 99B. In this case, the gasket or packing is provided in the area where the first cover 99A and the second cover 99B overlap when viewed from the first direction. This can improve the waterproof and dustproof functions of the opening 99Aop.
[0072] (Mechanism of Action and Effects) In this embodiment, the connector 200 comprises a connector housing 21, a first cover 99A, a second cover 99B, and a sealing portion (sealing member 99C). The connector housing 21 has a mating portion 20a that can be mated with a mating connector in a first direction. The first cover 99A has a first opening (opening 99Aop) and covers the connector housing 21 from the opposite side of the mating portion 20a in a first direction (e.g., the Z direction). The second cover 99B has a second opening (opening 99Bop) and covers the first opening (opening 99Aop). The sealing portion extends in a first direction and is an elastic body including a first locking portion 99Ca, a second locking portion 99Cb, and a flange portion 99Cc. The connector housing 21 has a base portion 20k having either a hole or a recess in a first direction. The first locking portion 99Ca is attached to the base portion 20k in one of the above directions. The second locking portion 99Cb protrudes outward from the second cover 99B in the first direction through the first and second openings. The flange portion 99Cc has a first surface 99C1 that contacts the second cover 99B. The first cover 99A has a wall portion 99AW that covers the second locking portion 99Cb in the second direction. The wall portion 99AW is aligned with the second cover 99B in the second direction. The second direction intersects the first direction.
[0073] With this configuration, the wall portion covers the second locking portion. When an external force is applied from a direction intersecting the first direction, the seal portion that protrudes outward from the second cover 99B through the openings 99Aop and 99Bop is less likely to move in the direction of the external force. Therefore, displacement of the seal portion that is locked to the second cover 99B is suppressed. As a result, in this embodiment, the packing is less likely to come off unintentionally. The wall portion 99AW protects the second locking portion 99Cb from the pressure of, for example, high-pressure cleaning.
[0074] The packing does not have to be rod-shaped. For example, the main part of the packing may be formed in an annular shape, and a rod-shaped sealing portion extending in the first direction may be provided on the main part. In that case, the rod-shaped sealing portion does not have to be provided on the main part. That is, instead of a rod-shaped sealing portion, a protruding sealing portion may be provided on the main part. The packing only needs to protrude outward from the second cover 99B through the first opening 99Aop and the second opening 99Bop.
[0075] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the seal portion protruding outward from the second cover through openings 99Aop and 99Bop is less likely to move in the direction of the external force, thereby reducing the likelihood of misalignment of the seal portion attached to the base portion 20k. Because misalignment of the seal portion is less likely to occur, the connector 200 in this embodiment is more likely to ensure waterproof performance. In addition, tearing of the seal portion caused by misalignment of the seal portion is also suppressed.
[0076] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the base portion 20k protrudes toward the first opening (opening 99Aop). This configuration makes it less likely for water to accumulate at the mounting portion of the seal.
[0077] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, one of the above-mentioned parts has a first inclined surface (inclined surface 20W4) that is inclined to expand toward the first opening. The sealing part has a second inclined surface (second surface 99C2) whose diameter gradually increases from the first locking part 99Ca to the flange part 99Cc. With this configuration, when an external force is applied in the first direction, the sealing part is less likely to move in the direction of the external force. Therefore, in this embodiment, the packing is less likely to come off unintentionally.
[0078] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the connector housing 21, the sealing portion, the first cover 99A, and the second cover 99B are arranged in that order from the outside of the connector housing 21. With this configuration, the second cover 99B covers the first cover 99A from the opposite side of the mating portion 20a. Therefore, the waterproofness of the connector housing 21 on the second cover 99B side is easily improved.
[0079] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the connector 200 further includes a fixing member 99D that fixes a first cover 99A and a second cover 99B in a first direction. The first cover 99A has a fixing portion 99Da to which the fixing member 99D is fixed in a first direction. The second cover 99B has an insertion hole through which the fixing member 99D can be inserted. The wall portion 99AW is located on the rotational trajectory of the second cover 99B around the axis of the insertion hole. With this configuration, the seal portion is less likely to move around the axis of the insertion hole when the second cover 99B is attached. Therefore, axial misalignment of the seal portion attached to the base portion 20k is less likely to occur. Because axial misalignment of the seal portion is less likely to occur, the connector 200 in this embodiment can easily ensure waterproof performance. In addition, tearing of the seal portion caused by axial misalignment of the seal portion is also suppressed.
[0080] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the fixing member 99D covers the second locking portion 99Cb in a second direction (for example, the X direction or the Y direction). With this configuration, the fixing member 99D is used in place of the wall portion 99AW. Therefore, the first cover 99A does not need to be provided with a wall portion 99AW. The shape of the first cover 99A is simplified.
[0081] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the fixing member is a screw or a bolt. The first cover 99A and the second cover 99B are fixed together by the fixing member 99D, which makes it easier to fill the gap between the opening 99Aop and the opening 99Bop. Therefore, the connector 200 in this embodiment is better able to ensure waterproof performance.
[0082] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the wire harness 300 comprises a connector 200 and a terminal-equipped wire 100 assembled to the connector housing 21. This configuration makes it easier to ensure waterproof performance for the wire harness 300.
[0083] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the wire with terminal 100 includes a wire 101 and a terminal portion 102. The terminal portion 102 is housed in the connector housing 21. The wire 101 is pulled out in the first direction. This configuration makes it easier to improve the waterproofness of the wire harness 300 on the mating portion 20a side.
[0084] (Variation 1) In this modified example, the core wire 101A may be a single wire. Alternatively, the core wire 101A may have multiple strands of twisted wire. When the core wire 101A has multiple strands of twisted wire, the core wire 101A becomes more flexible. Consequently, the terminal portion 102 and the electric wire 101 are more likely to be positioned in the first direction. This configuration makes it easier to improve the waterproofness of the wire harness 300 on the mating portion 20a side.
[0085] One embodiment and its variations have been described above. However, the embodiments and variations are not limited to the examples described above. For example, the embodiments and variations may be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]
[0086] 300 Wire Harness 100 terminal wire 101 Electric wire 101A core wire 101B Covering 102 Terminal section 102A Terminal connection section 102B Wire connection section 102L terminal section 102R Terminal section 200 connectors 21 Connector Housing 20a Fitting part 20b Flange section 20c drawer 20d First containment unit 20e Second containment unit 20f Locking part 20g fixed part 20k base 20U Front Holder 20V Housing Body 20W Cover component 20W1 front page 20W2 second side 20W3 Step surface 20W4 Slope 22 Terminal holding member 221 Cylinder part 222 Locked part 23. Sealing member 24 sealing member 25 sealing member 26 Wire holder 27 Shield Shell 271 Cylinder part 272 Flange section 272c through hole 28 Braided components 29 Seal ring 71 Fastening components 72 Fastening components 99A First Cover 99Ag fixed part 99Agg fixed part 99Aop first aperture 99AW Wall section 99Da fixed part 99B Second Cover 99Bop 2nd aperture 99C sealing member 99C1 Front page 99C2 second side 99Ca First locking part 99Cb Second locking part 99Cc flange section 99D Fixing member 510 Terminal fittings 511 Terminal connection section
Claims
1. A connector housing having a mating portion that can be mated with a mating type connector in the first direction, A first cover having a first opening and covering the connector housing from the opposite side of the fitting portion in the first direction, A second cover having a second opening and covering the first opening, A sealing portion which is an elastic body extending in the first direction and including a first locking portion, a second locking portion, and a flange portion, Equipped with, The connector housing comprises a base portion having either a hole or a recess in the first direction, The first locking portion is attached to the base portion on one side. The second locking portion protrudes outward from the second cover in the first direction through the first opening and the second opening, The flange portion has a first surface that contacts the second cover, The first cover has a wall portion that covers the second locking portion in the second direction, The wall portion is aligned in the second direction with respect to the second cover, The second direction intersects with the first direction. connector.
2. The base portion protrudes toward the first opening, The connector according to claim 1.
3. The one having the first inclined surface that is inclined to expand toward the first opening, The sealing portion has a second inclined surface whose diameter gradually increases from the first locking portion to the flange portion. The connector according to claim 1 or claim 2.
4. Towards the outside of the connector housing, The connector housing, the sealing portion, the first cover, and the second cover are arranged in that order. The connector according to claim 3.
5. In the first direction, the first cover and the second cover are further provided with fixing members, The first cover has a fixing portion to which the fixing member is fixed in the first direction, The second cover has an insertion hole through which the fixing member can be inserted, The wall portion is located on the rotational trajectory of the second cover around the axis of the insertion hole. The connector according to claim 3.
6. The fixing member covers the second locking portion in the second direction. The connector according to claim 5.
7. The aforementioned fixing member is a screw or a bolt. The connector according to claim 5.
8. A connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, A wire with terminals assembled to the connector housing, A wire harness equipped with [features / equipment].
9. The aforementioned wire with terminals includes a wire and a terminal portion. The terminal portion is housed in the connector housing. The electric wire is drawn out in the first direction, The wire harness according to claim 8.