Connector terminals, connectors, and connector assemblies

Abstract

The present invention provides a connector assembly that reduces the insertion and removal force required when inserting or removing connector terminals from a mating component. [Solution] The connector terminal 20 according to the disclosed embodiment includes a body 21, a first arm 231 extending forward from the body 21, a first contact portion 233 provided at one end of the first arm 231, a second arm 251 extending forward from the body 21 and positioned above the first arm 231, and a second contact portion 253 formed at one end of the second arm 251 and positioned behind the first contact portion 233, wherein the first contact portion 233 includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface positioned behind the first inclined surface, and the angle that the first inclined surface makes with the horizontal line is greater than the angle that the second inclined surface makes with the horizontal line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to connector terminals, connectors and connector assemblies.

Background Art

[0002] When transmission of electrical signals between two substrates is required, a flexible substrate such as FFC (Flexible Flat Circuit) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) can be used. One end of the flexible substrate is mounted on a plug housing and connected to a connector provided on a substrate. The flexible substrate includes electrical wirings extending in the longitudinal direction, and an insulating layer such as polyimide that encloses the electrical wirings. Ends of the electrical wirings provided on the flexible substrate are exposed on the surface to form contact pads that contact terminals of the connector.

[0003] A connector terminal generally includes a lever extending in one direction from a main body, and a contact portion formed at an end of the lever. The surface of the contact portion of the terminal may be corroded or contaminated by gas, and it is advantageous to have a multiple contact structure to ensure electrical connection with the contact pad of the flexible substrate. For example, Chinese Registered Utility Model No. 219779289 discloses a connector terminal including two contact portions.

[0004] However, when the number of contact points between the connector terminal and the mating member increases, the frictional force between the terminal and the mating member increases, so the insertion force required when inserting the plug into the connector increases. In particular, when the connector includes dozens of terminals, the insertion force increases in proportion to the number of terminals, so when a multiple contact structure is introduced, there is a problem that the force required for fastening the plug and the connector (hereinafter referred to as insertion force) becomes large. In addition, conventional connector assemblies have a problem that a large force is required also when separating the plug from the connector, making separation difficult.

[0005] Furthermore, in conventional connector assemblies, when the plug is connected to or disconnected from the connector, significant impact or frictional force is applied to the connector terminals, which can damage the connector terminals and their mating components. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] China Registered Utility Model No. 219779289 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The embodiments of this disclosure solve the problems of the prior art described above.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure aim to reduce the amount of force required when inserting a plug into a connector. Embodiments of this disclosure also aim to reduce the amount of force required when removing a plug from a connector. Embodiments of this disclosure also aim to prevent damage to the connector terminals and the mating components of the connector terminals during the coupling and uncoupling processes between the connector and the plug. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A connector terminal according to one embodiment includes a main body, a first arm extending forward from the main body, a first contact portion provided at one end of the first arm, a second arm extending forward from the main body and positioned above the first arm, and a second contact portion formed at one end of the second arm and positioned behind the first contact portion. The first contact portion includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface positioned behind the first inclined surface, wherein the angle the first inclined surface makes with the horizontal line is greater than the angle the second inclined surface makes with the horizontal line.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first contact portion may further include a horizontal surface located behind the second inclined surface.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first contact portion further includes a third inclined surface located behind the second inclined surface and extending downward, wherein the angle between the third inclined surface and the horizontal line may be the same as or smaller than the angle between the second inclined surface and the horizontal line.

[0012] In one embodiment, the highest point of the second contact portion may be located higher than the highest point of the first contact portion.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first arm includes a first extension extending rearward and downward from the first contact portion, and a second extension extending toward the main body from the first extension, wherein the bent point between the first and second extensions may be located forward of the front end of the second contact portion.

[0014] In one embodiment, the highest point of the second contact portion may be the same as or lower than the upper end of the support point of the second arm.

[0015] In one embodiment, the main body may include a support portion that extends forward from the support point of the first arm or the support point of the second arm and is located on the second arm.

[0016] A connector according to one embodiment includes a connector housing and a plurality of terminals provided on the connector housing, at least a portion of which may be one of the connector terminals of the above-described embodiment.

[0017] In one embodiment, an assembly including a connector and a plug fastened to the connector, wherein the connector includes the connector terminals of the above-described embodiment, and the plug includes a plug housing including a mounting surface on which a flexible substrate is mounted and a tip portion positioned at the connector-side end of the mounting surface and protruding downward from the mounting surface. When the plug is fastened to the connector, the first and second contact portions of the connector are located below the mounting surface, and the tip portion and the connector terminals are configured such that when the tip portion of the plug housing, without the flexible substrate mounted, presses the second contact portion downward, the front end of the second contact portion presses the first arm downward.

[0018] In one embodiment, the tip portion includes a first bottom surface located below the aforementioned mounting surface, and the tip portion includes a projection extending from the tip portion toward the connector, the second bottom surface of the projection portion may be located above the first bottom surface.

[0019] In one embodiment, the tip portion may be configured such that the first inclined surface separates from the tip portion when the tip portion first contacts the second inclined surface while the plug is being inserted into the connector.

[0020] In one embodiment, the tip portion may include a bottom surface and an inclined surface extending upward toward the connector from the connector-side end of the bottom surface, and the tip portion may be configured to separate from the second contact portion when the boundary point between the bottom surface and the inclined surface passes through the first contact portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the amount of force required when inserting a plug into a connector can be reduced. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the amount of force required when removing a plug from a connector can be reduced. According to embodiments of this disclosure, damage to the connector terminals and the mating members of the connector terminals can be prevented during the coupling and uncoupling processes of the connector and plug. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the back surface of the connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly according to one embodiment in an assembled state. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a connector terminal according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a contact portion of the connector terminal according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating that a plug housing is arranged in front of the connector terminal in one embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating that a plug housing is arranged in front of the connector terminal in another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the movement of the connector terminal when a plug is inserted into the connector. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a plug housing without a flexible substrate mounted thereon. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the movement of the connector terminal when a plug is pulled out from the connector. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a plug housing with a flexible substrate mounted thereon and a connector terminal partially inserted into the plug housing. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an exemplary model of a conventional connector assembly. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows simulation results of insertion force and extraction force between a plug and a connector terminal in the model of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an exemplary model of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 16 shows the results of simulating the insertion and removal forces between the plug and connector terminals in the model. [Figure 18] This is an exemplary model of a connector assembly according to another embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 18 shows the results of simulating the insertion and removal forces between the plug and connector terminals in the model. [Figure 20] This shows the stress acting on the connector terminals as they pass through the gap in the plug. [Figure 21] Figure 20 shows the results of simulating the insertion force between the plug and the connector terminals in the model. [Figure 22] This shows the stress acting on the connector terminal as it passes through the gap in the plug according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 22 shows the results of simulating the insertion force between the plug and the connector terminals in the model. [Figure 24] This is a perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 25] This is a disassembled perspective view of a plug according to one embodiment. [Figure 26] This is a top view of the flexible circuit board mounted in the plug housing. [Figure 27] This diagram illustrates the state in which the fixing member is temporarily assembled to the plug housing. [Figure 28] This is a perspective view of the back of a fixing member according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] This is a cross-sectional view of the locking portion and the plug housing with the fixing member temporarily assembled to the plug housing. [Figure 30] This is a cross-sectional view of the locking portion and the plug housing when the fixing member is fully assembled to the plug housing. [Figure 31] This is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling structure between the fixing member and the plug housing in a state where the fixing member is temporarily assembled to the plug housing. [Figure 32] This is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling structure between the fixing member and the plug housing when the fixing member is fully assembled to the plug housing. [Figure 33] This is a perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 34] This is a disassembled perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 35] This is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 36] This figure illustrates a flexible substrate in one embodiment. [Figure 37] This is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 38] This is a perspective view of the back of the connector. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] The embodiments of this disclosure are provided as examples to illustrate the technical concept of this disclosure. The scope of rights under this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments presented below or the specific descriptions relating thereto.

[0024] All technical and scientific terms used in this disclosure have the meanings generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise defined. All terms used in this disclosure have been chosen to provide a clearer description of this disclosure and not to limit the scope of rights granted by this disclosure.

[0025] Expressions such as “includes,” “equipment,” and “possess” used in this disclosure should be understood as open-ended terms that may include other embodiments, unless otherwise specified in the phrase or sentence containing such expression.

[0026] Unless otherwise specified, singular expressions described in this disclosure may include plural meanings, and this also applies to singular expressions in the claims.

[0027] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure are used to distinguish between multiple components and do not limit the order or importance of those components.

[0028] Where a component is referred to as being “connected” or “joined” with another component in this disclosure, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, or may be connected or joined through a new other component.

[0029] In this disclosure, directional indicators such as "up" and "up" refer to the direction in which the flexible substrate is positioned relative to the contact portion of the connector terminal in the attached drawings, while directional indicators such as "down" and "down" refer to the opposite direction. The flexible substrate and connector terminal shown in the attached drawings may have different orientations, and the directional indicators can be interpreted accordingly.

[0030] In this disclosure, “connector alignment direction” includes the direction in which one of the two connectors moves when one of the two connectors is brought linearly toward the other such that an electrical terminal maintained in the housing of one connector and another electrical terminal maintained in the housing of the other connector, corresponding to the aforementioned electrical terminal, are coupled to each other. Also, as used in this disclosure, “connector alignment position” includes the position occupied by one of the two connectors when one of the two connectors is brought linearly toward the other such that an electrical terminal maintained in the housing of one connector and another electrical terminal maintained in the housing of the other connector, corresponding to the aforementioned electrical terminal, are coupled to each other.

[0031] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In the attached drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals. In the following description of embodiments, the description of identical or corresponding components may be omitted. However, the omission of a description of a component does not mean that such a component is not included in the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a connector assembly 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly 1. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the back of the connector assembly 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly 1 in its assembled state according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the connector assembly 1 includes a connector 10 and a plug 30 that matches the connector 10. The connector 10 includes a connector housing 11 and a plurality of connector terminals 20 provided on the connector housing 11. The plug 30 includes a plug housing 31 to which a flexible substrate 40 can be coupled. The flexible substrate 40 includes electrical wiring and an insulating layer to which the electrical wiring is bonded. The ends of the electrical wiring are connected to contact pads 41 exposed to the outside of the flexible substrate 40. When the plug 30 is coupled to the connector 10, the connector terminals 20 make contact with the contact pads 41 of the flexible substrate 40.

[0034] Figure 6 shows a connector terminal 20 according to one embodiment. Figure 7 shows the contact portions 233 and 253 of the connector terminal 20 according to one embodiment.

[0035] Referring to Figure 6, the connector terminal 20 includes a main body 21 and a first terminal portion 23 and a second terminal portion 25 extending from the main body 21. The first terminal portion 23 includes a first arm 231 extending forward from the main body 21. The first terminal portion 23 includes a first contact portion 233 provided at one end of the first arm 231. The second terminal portion 25 includes a second arm 251 extending forward from the main body 21 and positioned above the first arm 231. The second terminal portion 25 includes a second contact portion 253 formed at one end of the second arm 251 and positioned behind the first contact portion 233. Referring to both Figures 3 and 4, when the plug 30 is coupled to the connector 10, both the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 contact the contact pads 41 of the flexible substrate 40 mounted on the plug 30.

[0036] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the first contact portion 233 may include a first inclined surface 233a and a second inclined surface 233b located behind the first inclined surface 233a. The angle A1 that the first inclined surface 233a makes with the horizontal line is greater than the angle A2 that the second inclined surface 233b makes with the horizontal line. For example, the angle A1 of the first inclined surface 233a may be approximately 38 degrees, and the angle A2 of the second inclined surface 233b may be approximately 12 degrees.

[0037] The first contact portion 233 may further include a third inclined surface 233c located behind the second inclined surface 233b and extending downward. The angle A3 that the third inclined surface 233c makes with the horizontal line is the same as or smaller than the angle A2 that the second inclined surface 233b makes with the horizontal line. For example, the angle A2 of the second inclined surface 233b may be approximately 12 degrees, and the angle A3 of the third inclined surface 233c may be approximately 11.7 degrees.

[0038] The first contact portion 233 may further include a first horizontal surface 233d located behind the second inclined surface 233b. The first horizontal surface 233d connects the second inclined surface 233b and the third inclined surface 233c. The region corresponding to the second inclined surface 233b, the first horizontal surface 233d, and the third inclined surface 233c may be referred to as the first curved portion 233e.

[0039] The second contact portion 253 may include a fourth inclined surface 253a and a fifth inclined surface 253b located behind the fourth inclined surface 253a. The angle A4 that the fourth inclined surface 253a makes with the horizontal line is greater than the angle A5 that the fifth inclined surface 253b makes with the horizontal line. For example, the angle A4 of the fourth inclined surface 253a may be approximately 40 to 50 degrees, and the angle A5 of the fifth inclined surface 253b may be approximately 17 degrees.

[0040] The second contact portion 253 may further include a sixth inclined surface 253c located behind the fifth inclined surface 253b and extending downward. The angle A6 that the sixth inclined surface 253c makes with the horizontal line is the same as or smaller than the angle A5 that the fifth inclined surface 253b makes with the horizontal line. For example, the angle A5 of the fifth inclined surface 253b may be approximately 17 degrees, and the angle A6 of the sixth inclined surface 253c may be approximately 12.7 degrees.

[0041] The second contact portion 253 may further include a second horizontal surface 253d located behind the fifth inclined surface 253b. The second horizontal surface 253d connects the fifth inclined surface 253b and the sixth inclined surface 253c. The region corresponding to the fifth inclined surface 253b, the second horizontal surface 253d, and the sixth inclined surface 253c may be referred to as the second curved portion 253e.

[0042] In this disclosure, the surfaces of the contact portions 233, 253 are shown to be formed by a combination of planar and curved surfaces, but embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the surfaces of the contact portions 233, 253 may be composed of a combination of only curved surfaces or a combination of only planar surfaces. At least one of the first inclined surface 233a, the second inclined surface 233b, or the third inclined surface 233c can be replaced by a curved surface. For example, a curved surface replacing the second inclined surface 233b may be formed such that its average slope (i.e., the angle of the line connecting the front and rear ends) corresponds to the angle of the second inclined surface 233b (e.g., 12 degrees). In another example, a curved surface replacing the third inclined surface 233c may be formed such that its average slope corresponds to the angle of the third inclined surface 233c (e.g., 11.7 degrees).

[0043] The first curved portion 233e and the second curved portion 253e make direct contact with the mating member (the tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31 or the contact pad 41). Since the first curved portion 233e and the second curved portion 253e consist of a horizontal surface or a gently sloping surface, the resistance force generated when they come into contact with or pass over the surface of the mating member can be reduced. This prevents damage such as buckling of the terminal portions 23 and 25 of the connector terminal 20 when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10. It also minimizes damage to the mating member, such as peeling of the plating film on the surface of the contact pad 41.

[0044] The contact portions 233 and 253 of this disclosure can be made shorter by making the inclined surfaces 233a and 253a extending from the front end steeper than the curved portions 233e and 253e, thereby shortening the distance from the front end to the highest point of the contact portions 233 and 253. This can increase the effective contact distance (contact engagement length) of the connector terminal 20.

[0045] Referring to Figure 6, the main body 21 includes a support portion 27. The support portion 27 is configured to prevent the connector terminals 20 from detaching from the connector housing 11. The support portion 27 may include upwardly protruding projections 271 and 272.

[0046] Referring to Figure 6, the support portion 27 protrudes forward from the support point 235 of the first arm 231 or the support point 255 of the second arm 251. The support portion 27 is located above the first arm 231 and the second arm 251. That is, the support points 235 and 255 of the first arm 231 and the second arm 251 are located behind the front end 273 of the support portion 27. Between the second arm 251 and the support portion 27, a recess 26 is formed, extending from a position 261 corresponding to the front end 273 of the support portion 27 to the support point 255 of the second arm 251. Between the second arm 251 and the first arm 231, a recess 24 is formed, extending from a position 241 corresponding to the front end 273 of the support portion 27 to the support point 235 of the first arm 231.

[0047] Since the support points 235 and 255 of the first arm 231 and the second arm 251 are located behind the front end 273 of the support portion 27, this has the effect of increasing the length of the first arm 231 and the second arm 251. As a result, the slope from the support points 235 and 255 of the terminal portions 23 and 25 to the curved portions 233e and 253e becomes gentler. When the slope from the support points 235 and 255 of the terminal portions 23 and 25 to the curved portions 233e and 253e becomes gentler, the resistance force acting on the curved portions 233e and 253e as they pass over the mating member can be reduced. This increases the durability of the terminal portions 23 and 25 against buckling.

[0048] The highest point of the second contact portion 253 (e.g., the second horizontal plane 253d) can be the same as, or lower than, the upper end 255a of the support point 255 of the second arm 251. The upper end 255a of the support point 255 of the second arm 251 may represent the starting point where the second arm 251 begins to protrude forward from the main body 21. Referring to Figure 5, the upper end 255a of the support point 255 may represent the deepest point in the recess 26 between the support portion 27 and the second arm 251. This results in a gentler slope from the upper end of the support point of the second arm 251 to the highest point of the second contact portion 253, which increases the buckling resistance of the second terminal portion 25.

[0049] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the first arm 231 may include a first extension 231a extending rearward and downward from the first contact portion 233, and a second extension 231b extending toward the body 21 from the first extension 231a. The angle A7 that the first extension 231a makes with the horizontal is greater than the angle A8 that the second extension 231b makes with the horizontal. The length of the first extension 231a can be provided as short as possible. For example, the curved portion 231c between the first extension 231a and the second extension 231b may be located forward of the front end 253f of the second contact portion 253. This prevents a large rotational moment from being generated in the curved portion 231c between the first extension 231a and the second extension 231b as the first contact portion 233 passes the mating member, thereby preventing the first terminal portion 23 from buckling.

[0050] The highest point of the second contact portion 253 is located higher than the highest point of the first contact portion 233. For example, the second horizontal plane 253d is located higher than the first horizontal plane 233d. By making the highest point of the second contact portion 253 relatively higher than the highest point of the first contact portion 233, the highest point of the second contact portion 253 is not covered by the first contact portion 233 when viewed from the insertion direction. This makes it possible to measure the dimensions (e.g., height) of the second contact portion 253 from the insertion direction.

[0051] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment in which the plug housing 31 is positioned in front of the connector terminals 20. Figure 9 illustrates another embodiment in which the plug housing 31 is positioned in front of the connector terminals 20.

[0052] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the plug housing 31 includes a mounting surface 33 on which the flexible substrate 40 is mounted, and a tip portion 32 positioned at the end of the mounting surface 33. The tip portion 32 is configured to prevent the flexible substrate 40, which is mounted on the mounting surface 33, from moving forward. The tip portion 32 protrudes below the mounting surface 33. That is, the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 is located below the mounting surface 33. The first bottom surface 321 can extend horizontally.

[0053] The tip portion 32 can be configured such that, as the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10, the first inclined surface 233a separates from the tip portion 32 when the tip portion 32 first makes contact with the second inclined surface 233b.

[0054] Referring to Figure 7, the first contact portion 233 includes a relatively steep first inclined surface 233a and a second inclined portion 233b that extends gently from the rear end of the first inclined surface 233a. A steep inclined surface receives a greater resistance force when passing over the mating member compared to a gently inclined surface. Therefore, when the first contact portion 233 passes over the tip portion 32, it is advantageous for the second inclined surface 233b to contact the tip portion 32 more than the first inclined surface 233a in order to reduce the insertion force. Also, reducing the section in which the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 contact the tip portion 32 simultaneously is advantageous for reducing the insertion force. The shape of the tip portion 32 can be designed taking these circumstances into consideration.

[0055] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the tip portion 32 may be configured such that when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10, the tip portion 32 first makes contact with the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233. The tip portion 32 may be configured such that when the tip portion 32 first makes contact with the first curved portion 233e, the first inclined surface 233a separates from the tip portion 32.

[0056] The tip portion 32 may be configured such that when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10, the tip portion 32 first makes contact with the second curved portion 253e of the second contact portion 253. The tip portion 32 may be configured such that when the tip portion 32 first makes contact with the second curved portion 253e, the fourth inclined surface 253a separates from the tip portion 32.

[0057] The tip 32 of the plug housing 31 can be configured to contact the second inclined surface 233b without contacting the first inclined surface 233a when passing through the first contact portion 233. That is, when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10, the tip 32 passes through the first contact portion 233 while contacting the second inclined surface 233b, which is less inclined than the first inclined surface 233a, thus reducing the frictional force between the tip 32 and the first contact portion 233. This reduces the amount of force required when inserting the plug 30 into the connector 10.

[0058] The tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31 can be configured to contact the fifth inclined surface 253b without contacting the fourth inclined surface 253a when passing through the second contact portion 253. That is, when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10, the tip portion 32 passes through the second contact portion 253 while contacting the fifth inclined surface 253b, which is less inclined than the fourth inclined surface 253a, thus reducing the frictional force between the tip portion 32 and the second contact portion 253. This reduces the amount of force required when inserting the plug 30 into the connector 10.

[0059] Referring to Figure 8, the tip portion 32 may include a projection 322 extending toward the connector 10. A step exists between a second bottom surface 323 defining the lower surface of the projection 322 and the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32. The second bottom surface 323 is located above the first bottom surface 321. The second bottom surface 323 may extend horizontally (or in the alignment direction). The first bottom surface 321 and the second bottom surface 323 may connect to an inclined surface 324. The angle A9 that the inclined surface 324 makes with the horizontal line may be formed to be smaller than the angles A1 and A4 that the first inclined surface 233a or the fourth inclined surface 253a makes with the horizontal line. The projection 322 may include a chamfer 326 extending from the second bottom surface 323 to the front end 325. Because the tip portion 32 includes the protruding portion 322, when the tip portion 32 passes over the contact portions 233 and 253, it mainly comes into contact with the curved portions 233e and 253e, eliminating or minimizing the moment when it comes into contact with the steeply inclined surfaces 233a and 253a.

[0060] Referring to Figure 9, the tip portion 32 may include a chamfered portion (or inclined surface) 327 extending from the first bottom surface 321 to the front end 325. The angle A10 that the chamfered portion 327 makes with the horizontal line can be formed to be smaller than the angles A1 and A4 that the first inclined surface 233a or the fourth inclined surface 253a makes with the horizontal line. By including the chamfered portion 327 in the tip portion 32, when the tip portion 32 passes over the contact portions 233 and 253, it mainly contacts the curved portions 233e and 253e, and the moment of contact with the steep inclined surfaces 233a and 253a can be eliminated or minimized.

[0061] Figure 10 illustrates the movement of the connector terminals 20 when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10.

[0062] Referring to Figure 10(a), the tip 32 of the plug 30 may include a first bottom surface 321 that defines the lowermost surface of the tip 32 and extends horizontally in the alignment direction from the first end 321a to the second end 321b.

[0063] The plug 30 is configured such that the projection 322 first passes over the first contact portion 233. The projection 322 can be configured to contact the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233, which has a small gradient angle. For example, the horizontal extension of the second bottom surface 323 defining the lowest surface of the projection 322 can reach the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233. As the plug 30 passes over the first contact portion 233, it first contacts the gently curved first curved portion 233e, resulting in a small frictional force between the plug 30 and the first contact portion 233. Although not shown in Figure 10, the tip portion 32 can have a large chamfered portion 327 (see Figure 9) instead of the projection 322. The chamfered portion 327 can be configured such that when the plug 30 passes the first contact portion 233, the chamfered portion 327 first comes into contact with the gently curved first curved portion 233e, thereby similarly achieving the frictional force reduction effect of the protrusion 322.

[0064] Referring to Figure 10(b), the tip portion 32 may include an inclined surface 324 extending from the first base surface 321 toward the connector 10. The tip portion 32 may be configured to separate from the second contact portion 253 when the boundary point 329 between the first base surface 321 and the inclined surface 324 of the tip portion 322 passes the first contact portion 233. The boundary point 329 may correspond to the second end 321b of the first base surface 321. It has been found that the insertion force is greatest when the point where the inclination begins in the tip portion 32 (i.e., the boundary point 329) passes the first contact portion 233. This is presumed to be because the frictional force acting between the tip portion 32 and the first contact portion 233 increases when the boundary point 329 passes the first contact portion 233. In the section where the frictional force between the first contact portion 233 and the tip portion 32 is large, the tip portion 32 is configured to be separated from the second contact portion 253, thereby reducing the amount of force required when the plug 30 is inserted into the connector 10.

[0065] Referring to Figure 10(c), the connector terminal 20 and plug housing 31 can be configured such that when the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 passes the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233, the protruding portion 322 of the tip portion 32 begins to contact the second contact portion 253.

[0066] Figure 10(d) illustrates the state just before the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 separates from the first contact portion 233.

[0067] Referring to Figures 10(b) and (d), the connector terminal 20 and plug housing 31 can be configured such that the first bottom surface 321 does not contact the second contact portion 253 before the first end 321a passes the apex of the first contact portion 233 as the first bottom surface 321 passes the first contact portion 233. The connector terminal 20 and plug housing 31 can be configured such that the second end 321b is in contact with the second contact portion 253 as the first end 321a moves away from the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233. This minimizes or eliminates the section in which the first bottom surface 321 presses against both the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 simultaneously, which makes it easier to insert the plug 30 into the connector 10.

[0068] Referring to Figure 10, in one embodiment, the connector matching process may include a first step in which the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 passes over the apex of the first contact portion 233, and a second step in which the first bottom surface 321 passes over the apex of the second contact portion 253. In the first step, the first bottom surface 321 may not be in contact with the second contact portion 253 before the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 passes over the apex of the first contact portion 233. In the second step, the second end 321b of the first bottom surface 321 may be in contact with the second contact portion 253 when the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 moves away from the first contact portion 233.

[0069] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the plug housing 31 without the flexible substrate 40 installed. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the movement of the connector terminals when the plug 30 is removed from the connector 10.

[0070] If necessary, the plug housing 31 without the flexible substrate 40 can be connected to the connector 10. The tip portion 32 and connector terminal 20 can be configured such that when the tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31 without the flexible substrate 40 presses the second contact portion 253 downward, the front end of the second contact portion 253 presses the first arm 231 downward.

[0071] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, since the flexible substrate 40 is not mounted on the plug housing 31, the first contact portion 233 of the connector terminal 20 is located close to the mounting surface 33. In this state, during the process of separating the plug 30 from the connector terminal 20, the tip portion 32 is strongly engaged with the first contact portion 233, which may increase the extraction force or damage the connector terminal 20.

[0072] Referring to Figures 12(a) to (d), as the plug 30 retracts from the connector 10, the tip 32 presses downward against the second arm 251 and second contact portion 253 of the second terminal portion 25. The second contact portion 253 contacts the first arm 231 of the first terminal portion 23, which is located below it, and presses downward against the first terminal portion 23. This causes the first contact portion 233 of the first terminal portion 23 to descend. Because the first contact portion 233 is lower than its initial position, the tip 32 can more easily move over the first contact portion 233. That is, the resistance force that occurs when the plug 30 retracts due to the tip 32 being locked against the first contact portion 233 can be reduced. This prevents damage to the connector terminal 20 and allows the plug 30 to separate smoothly from the connector 10.

[0073] Referring to Figure 12(c), the plug housing 31 can be configured such that the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 presses against the second contact portion 253 until the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 contacts the first contact portion 233.

[0074] Referring to Figure 12(c), if we only consider that the second contact portion 253 presses against the first contact portion 233, it is preferable to set the length of the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 to be longer than a predetermined length so as to maintain the pressing state of the first contact portion 233. However, if the length of the tip portion 32 is too long and the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 contact the tip portion 32 at the same time, there is a problem that the insertion force will actually increase. Therefore, it is preferable to limit the length of the first bottom surface 321 of the tip portion 32 to a length that prevents this.

[0075] Referring to Figures 12(c) and (d), the connector terminal 20 and plug housing 31 can be configured such that the tip 32 does not contact the first contact portion 233 before the second end 321b of the first bottom surface 321 passes the apex of the second contact portion 253. The connector terminal 20 and plug housing 31 can be configured such that when the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 first contacts the first contact portion 233, the second end 321b of the first bottom surface 321 is in contact with the second contact portion 253. This minimizes or eliminates the section in which the first bottom surface 321 presses both the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 simultaneously, which makes it easier to remove the plug 30 from the connector 10.

[0076] Referring to Figure 12(d), when the first bottom surface 321 enters the first curved portion 233e of the first contact portion 233, the inclined surface 324, rather than the first bottom surface 321, can come into contact with the second contact portion 253.

[0077] Referring to Figure 12, in one embodiment, the connector removal process may include a first step in which the first bottom surface 321 of the tip 32 passes over the apex of the second contact portion 253, and a second step in which the first bottom surface 321 of the tip 32 passes over the apex of the first contact portion 233. In the first step, the tip 32 may not contact the first contact portion 233 before the second end 321b of the first bottom surface 321 passes over the apex of the second contact portion 253. In the second step, the second end 321b of the first bottom surface 321 may be in contact with the second contact portion 253 when the first end 321a of the first bottom surface 321 first contacts the first contact portion 233.

[0078] Figure 13 shows a plug housing 31 to which a flexible substrate 40 is attached, and a connector terminal 20 partially inserted into the plug housing 31.

[0079] Referring to Figure 13, when the flexible substrate 40 is mounted on the plug housing 31, a gap g can exist between the tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31 and the flexible substrate 40. There is play in the front-to-back direction between the flexible substrate 40 and the plug housing 31, and the flexible substrate 40 may oscillate in the front-to-back direction within the plug housing 31. In this case, the first contact portion 233 pushes the flexible substrate 40 away from the tip portion 32 as it passes through the contact pad 41, and the gap g may become even larger.

[0080] Referring to Figure 7, the length d1 in the front-rear direction of the first curved portion 233e and / or the length d2 in the front-rear direction of the second curved portion 253e can be set to be the same as or larger than the gap g between the flexible substrate 40 and the tip portion 32.

[0081] When the plug 30 is connected to the connector 10, the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 pass over the tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31 and are then placed on the contact pad 41 of the flexible substrate 40. Although there is a gap g due to assembly play between the flexible substrate 40 and the plug housing 31, the contact portions 233 and 235 have curved portions 233e and 253e, so that the contact portions 233 and 235 can smoothly pass over the tip portion 32 and be placed on the contact pad 41.

[0082] Although the contact portions 233 and 235 may come into contact with the corners of the flexible substrate 40, the curved portions 233e and 235e of the contact portions 233 and 235 come into contact with the corners instead of the steeply inclined surfaces 233a and 235a, thus preventing the contact portions 233 and 235 from being subjected to a large impact. This prevents damage to the contact portions 233 and 235 and the contact pad 41. Failure to prevent such damage could lead to the plating layer of the contact portion or contact pad peeling off, which could cause chemical / electrical corrosion problems due to contamination of the peeled portion, potentially causing a sharp increase in contact resistance. According to embodiments of this disclosure, damage to the contact pad 41 can be minimized or prevented when the first contact portion 233 passes over the contact pad 41, thus preventing the above-mentioned problems, and therefore the second contact portion 253 can be placed on the contact pad 41 without significant resistance.

[0083] Figure 14 is an illustrative model of a conventional connector assembly. Figure 15 shows the results of simulating the insertion and removal forces between the plug 150 and the connector terminal 160 in the model of Figure 14. Figure 16 is an illustrative model of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 17 shows the results of simulating the insertion and removal forces between the plug 30 and the connector terminal 20 in the model of Figure 16. Figure 18 is an illustrative model of a connector assembly according to another embodiment. Figure 19 shows the results of simulating the insertion and removal forces between the plug 30 and the connector terminal 20 in the model of Figure 18.

[0084] Figure 14 is a model of a conventional plug 150 and a conventional connector terminal 160. The plug 150 includes a plug housing 151 and a flexible substrate 40 mounted on the plug housing 151, with a gap g between the end of the flexible substrate 40 and the tip of the plug housing 151. The connector terminal 160 includes a first terminal 161 and a second terminal 162, both of which include a first contact portion 1611 and a second contact portion 1621 that sharply protrude upward. In the model in Figure 14, the insertion force when inserting the plug 150 into the connector is shown by a dashed line in the graph of Figure 15. In Figure 15, the peak of the insertion force occurs when the second contact portion 1621 passes through the gap g.

[0085] Figure 16 is a model of a plug 30 and connector terminal 20 according to one embodiment. Referring to Figure 16, the plug 30 includes a plug housing 31 and a flexible substrate 40 mounted on the plug housing 31, with a gap g between the end of the flexible substrate 40 and the tip of the plug housing 31. The tip 32 of the plug housing 31 includes a projection 322 that protrudes forward (or in the alignment direction) (see Figure 8). The connector terminal 20 includes a first terminal portion 23 and a second terminal portion 25, the two terminal portions 23 and 25 including a first contact portion 233 and a second contact portion 253 that protrude gently upward. The insertion force when inserting the plug 30 into the connector in the model of Figure 16 is shown by a dashed line in the graph of Figure 17. In Figure 17, the peak of the insertion force occurs when the second contact portion 253 passes through the gap g. Compared to the peak in Figure 15, the magnitude of the peak insertion force in Figure 17 is reduced to about one-third of the magnitude of the peak insertion force in a conventional connector assembly. This technical effect is due to the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 being provided with gently curved surfaces and the protrusion 322 being provided at the tip portion 32 of the plug housing 31.

[0086] Figure 18 is a model of a plug 30 and connector terminal 20 according to one embodiment. Referring to Figure 19, the plug 30 includes a plug housing 31 and a flexible substrate 40 mounted on the plug housing 31, with a gap g between the end of the flexible substrate 40 and the tip 32 of the plug housing 31. The tip 32 of the plug housing 31 includes a chamfered portion 327 extending forward (or in the alignment direction) (see Figure 9). The connector terminal 20 includes a first terminal portion 23 and a second terminal portion 25, the two terminal portions 23 and 25 including a first contact portion 233 and a second contact portion 253 that gently protrude upward. In the model of Figure 18, the insertion force when inserting the plug 30 into the connector is shown by a dashed line in the graph of Figure 19. In Figure 19, the peak of the insertion force occurs when the second contact portion 253 passes through the gap g. Compared to the peak in Figure 15, the magnitude of the peak insertion force in Figure 19 is reduced to about one-third of the magnitude of the peak insertion force in a conventional connector assembly. This technical effect is partly due to the fact that the first contact portion 233 and the second contact portion 253 are provided with gently curved surfaces and that the tip portion 322 is provided with a chamfered portion 327.

[0087] Figure 20 shows the stress acting on the connector terminal 160 as it passes through the gap g of the plug 150. Figure 21 shows the results of a simulation of the insertion force between the plug 150 and the connector terminal 160 in the model of Figure 20. Figure 22 shows the stress acting on the connector terminal 20 as it passes through the gap g of the plug 30 according to one embodiment. Figure 23 shows the results of a simulation of the insertion force between the plug 30 and the connector terminal 20 in the model of Figure 22.

[0088] Referring to Figure 20, the plug 150 includes a plug housing 151 and a flexible substrate 40 mounted on the plug housing 151. The plug housing 151 includes a tip 152, and a gap g exists between the tip 152 and the flexible substrate 40. The connector terminal 160 includes a contact portion 1611 that electrically contacts the flexible substrate 40, the contact portion 1611 being provided at the end of an arm 1612 extending forward from the body of the terminal. The arm 1612 includes a neck portion 1612a that curves toward the terminal. Referring to Figure 20, considerable stress is generated in the neck portion 1612a of the connector terminal 160 as the contact portion 1611 of the connector terminal 160 passes through the gap g and the corner of the flexible substrate 40. Referring to Figure 21, a peak insertion force is generated in the above section. Large stresses acting on the neck portion 1612a of the connector terminal 160 can cause damage to the connector terminal 160, such as buckling.

[0089] In the model shown in Figure 22, the connector terminal 20 is simplified to include only the first terminal portion 23 of the connector terminal 20 shown in Figure 6 and other figures. Referring to Figure 22, it can be seen that the stress generated in the neck portion (i.e., the second extension portion 231a) of the connector terminal 20 is considerably relieved as the first contact portion 233 of the connector terminal 20 passes through the gap g and the corner of the flexible substrate 40. Referring to Figure 23, the magnitude of the peak insertion force in the above section is reduced to about 1 / 10 of the magnitude of the peak insertion force in the conventional connector assembly in Figure 20, which prevents damage to the connector terminal 20. This effect is due to the fact that, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the first contact portion 233 of the connector terminal 20 is provided with a gentle curve, the slope from the support point of the arm 231 to the first contact portion 233 is gentler than the slope in the conventional connector terminal 160, and the neck portion of the first terminal portion 23 is provided to be shorter than the neck portion of the conventional connector terminal 160.

[0090] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 25 is an exploded perspective view of a plug 50 according to one embodiment. Figure 26 is a top view of a flexible substrate 52 mounted on a plug housing 51.

[0091] Referring to Figures 24 and 25, a connector assembly according to one embodiment includes a plug 50 and a connector 60. The plug 50 may include a plug housing 51 and a flexible substrate 52 and a fixing member 53 coupled to the plug housing 51.

[0092] Referring to Figures 25 and 26, the fixing member 53 may include a first support 532 projecting from the main body 531 toward the plug housing 51. The first support 532 may be located in the center of the main body 531. The plug housing 51 may include a first hole 511 into which the first support 532 is inserted. The flexible substrate 52 may include first substrate holes 521 into which each of the first support 532 is inserted. When the fixing member 53 is coupled to the plug housing 51, the first support 532 passes through the first hole 511 and is located within the first substrate holes 521.

[0093] The fixing member 53 may include a second support 533 projecting from the main body 531 toward the plug housing 51. The second support 533 may consist of two projections located on either side of the main body 531. The plug housing 51 may include a second hole 512 into which the second support 533 is inserted. The flexible substrate 52 may include a second substrate hole 522 into which the second support 533 is inserted. In Figure 25, the second substrate hole 522 is provided as a hole with one side open, but this is illustrative and may be provided as a closed hole, such as the first substrate hole 521. When the fixing member 53 is coupled to the plug housing 51, the second support 533 passes through the second hole 512 and is positioned within the second substrate hole 522.

[0094] Referring to Figure 26, when the plug 50 is inserted into the connector 60, the connector terminals push out the flexible substrate 52 while contacting the contact pads 52a of the flexible substrate 52. The flexible substrate 52 is supported in the center by a first support 532 and on both sides by second supports 533, which prevents or minimizes the flexible substrate 52 from being pressed inside the plug housing 51. This can minimize or eliminate the gap g between the flexible substrate 52 and the tip of the plug housing 51, and further prevent or minimize increased insertion force and damage to the connector terminals and the pads 53a of the flexible substrate 52. Also, by minimizing the degree to which the flexible substrate 52 is pressed inside the plug housing 51, a stable contact engagement length can be ensured between the flexible substrate 52 and the connector terminals, which can help reduce the overall size of the connector assembly.

[0095] Figure 27 shows the fixing member 53 in a state where it has been temporarily assembled to the plug housing 51. Figure 28 is a rear perspective view of the fixing member 53 according to one embodiment. Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the locking portion 534 and the plug housing 51 in the state where the fixing member 53 has been temporarily assembled to the plug housing 51. Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of the locking portion 534 and the plug housing 51 in the state where the fixing member 53 has been fully assembled to the plug housing 51.

[0096] Referring to Figures 27 and 28, the fixing member 53 may include locking portions 534 extending downward from both sides of the main body 531. The plug housing 51 may include hook portions 513, 514 into which the locking portions 534 are engaged. When the fixing member 53 is coupled to the plug housing 51, the locking portions 534 wrap around both sides of the plug housing 51. With the fixing member 53 and the plug housing 51 coupled, the locking portions 534 are engaged with the hook portions 513, 514, which prevents the fixing member 53 from separating from the plug housing 51.

[0097] The locking portion 534 may include a first housing portion 534a and a second housing portion 534b located above the first housing portion 534a. The locking portion 534 may include two arms 534e and 534f that extend downward from the end of the main body 531 and are spaced apart from each other. The locking portion 534 may include a first bridge 534c and a second bridge 534d that connect the two arms 534e and 534f and are spaced apart from each other.

[0098] The first housing section 534a can be defined as the space enclosed by two arms 534e, 534f, a first bridge 534c, and a second bridge 534d. The second housing section 534b can be defined as the space enclosed by two arms 534e, 534f, and a second bridge 534d.

[0099] The hook portions 513 and 514 may include a first bump 513 and a second bump 514 located above the first bump 513. The first housing portion 534a and the second housing portion 534b are configured to house the first bump 513 and the second bump 514, respectively. The second bump 514 is also configured to house the first housing portion 534a.

[0100] The fixing member 53 can be connected to the plug housing 51 in two states. The first assembly state is a temporary assembly state in which the first housing portion 534a of the locking portion 534 fits onto the second bump 514 of the plug 50 housing. The second assembly state is a fully assembled state in which the first housing portion 534a and the second housing portion 534b fit onto the first bump 513 and the second bump 514, respectively.

[0101] When the first bridge 534c and the second bridge 534d cross the first bump 513 and the second bump 514, respectively, the fixing member 53 is fully assembled to the plug housing 51. Therefore, the first bump 513 and the second bump 514 can be formed with angles of less than 45 degrees on their upper inclined surfaces a11 and a12 so that the first bridge 534c and the second bridge 534d do not easily cross the first bump 513 and the second bump 514, respectively.

[0102] When transitioning from a partially assembled state to a fully assembled state, the second bridge 534d must cross the second bump 514. However, because the second bridge 534d is located near the support point of the locking portion 534, a relatively large moment is generated at the support point of the locking portion 534 when the second bridge 534d is lifted while passing over the second bump 514, which could damage the locking portion 534. In embodiments of this disclosure, to prevent such problems, the overlap width between the second bridge 534d and the second bump 514 in the vertical direction (or the assembly direction of the fixing member 53 relative to the plug housing 51) can be provided to an appropriate level.

[0103] For example, referring to Figure 30, the second bump 514 can be provided at a height lower than the first bump 513 by a predetermined length d3. Another example is that the thickness of the second bridge 534d can be reduced to decrease the width to which the second bridge 534d and the second bump 514 overlap in the vertical direction.

[0104] To transition from a partially assembled state to a fully assembled state, the first bridge 534c and the second bridge 534d must cross the first bump 513 and the second bump 514, respectively, which requires pressing the fixing member 53 with a relatively large force. Referring to Figure 29, chamfers C1, C2, or rounding can be applied to the parts of the first bridge 534c and the second bridge 534d that come into contact with the first bump 513 and the second bump 514.

[0105] The plug 50 may be supplied with the fixing member 53 partially assembled, but when the plug 50 is transported or handled, the fixing member 53 may unintentionally become fully assembled to the plug housing 51. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the interaction between the locking portion 534 and the hook portions 513, 514 helps to keep the fixing member 53 well assembled to the plug housing 51, thereby minimizing or preventing situations in which the fixing member 53 is unintentionally fully assembled to the plug housing 51.

[0106] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling structure between the fixing member 53 and the plug housing 51 when the fixing member 53 is temporarily assembled to the plug housing 51. Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view showing the coupling structure between the fixing member 53 and the plug housing 51 when the fixing member 53 is fully assembled to the plug housing 51.

[0107] Referring to Figure 31, in the temporary assembly state, the lower part of the second support 533 is inserted into the second hole 512. In the temporary assembly state, the second support 533 has not yet descended to the position where the flexible substrate 52 will be placed, so in the temporary assembly state, the flexible substrate 52 can be inserted into the plug housing 51 without being obstructed by the second support 533.

[0108] The second support 533 may include a projection 533a projecting from its lower end in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second hole 512 is open (i.e., vertical direction) (i.e., horizontal direction). At the location of the projection 533a, the width W1 of the second support 533 is greater than the width W2 of the second hole 512. The projection 533a prevents the second support 533 from being fully inserted into the second hole 512 in the pre-assembled state. When the fixing member 53 is pressed with a relatively strong force, the projection 533a is pressed and crushed by the inner surface 512a of the second hole 512, allowing the second support 533 to be fully inserted into the second hole 512. In Figure 31, the projection 533a is located on the left side of the second support, but this is illustrative, and in other embodiments, the projection 533a may be located on the right side of the second support.

[0109] The plug 50 may be supplied with the fixing member 53 partially assembled, but when the plug 50 is transported or handled, the fixing member 53 may be unintentionally fully assembled to the plug housing 51. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection 533a of the second support 533 helps to keep the fixing member 53 well assembled to the plug housing 51, thereby minimizing or preventing situations in which the fixing member 53 is unintentionally fully assembled to the plug housing 51.

[0110] Referring to Figures 30 to 32, the second support 533 may include a first projection 533b located inside the second substrate hole 522 of the flexible substrate 52 in the fully assembled state. The second support 533 may also include a second projection 533c located inside the second hole 512 in the fully assembled state. The first projection 533b and the second projection 533c project from different parts of the second support 533 in opposite directions. The first projection 533b projects from the central part of the second support 533 toward the front end of the flexible substrate 52 (to the right in the drawing). The second projection 533c projects from the upper part of the second support 533 toward the front end of the flexible substrate 52 (to the left in the drawing).

[0111] Referring to Figure 32, in the second support 533, the width W3 of the central part where the first protrusion 533b is located and the width W4 of the upper part where the second protrusion 533c is located are both smaller than the width W2 of the second hole 512, so that it can pass through the second hole 512 smoothly. The width W5 between the first protrusion 533b and the second protrusion 533c can be the same as or larger than the width W2 of the second hole 512.

[0112] The flexible substrate 52 is supported by the first projection 533b of the second support 533, and the second support 533 is supported by the inner surface 512a of the second hole 512 at the second projection 533c. Therefore, the position of the inner surface 522a of the second substrate hole 522 of the flexible substrate 52 relative to the inner surface 512a of the second hole 512 cannot be pushed to the left of a position that is separated from the inner surface 512a of the second hole 512a by a width W5 between the first projection 533b and the second projection 533c.

[0113] When the connector 60 and plug 50 shown in Figure 24 are aligned, the appearance of the plug 50 and connector 60 is similar to that in Figure 13. Referring to Figures 13 and 26, during the alignment process of the plug 50 and connector terminals, the connector terminals push the flexible substrate 52 in the opposite direction to the alignment direction. When the flexible substrate 52 is pushed, the gap g between the flexible substrate 52 and the tip 51a of the plug housing 51 increases, which can result in increased insertion force and damage to the contact pads 52a of the connector terminals and the flexible substrate 52.

[0114] However, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the first protrusion 533b and the second protrusion 533c protrude from different portions of the second support 533 in different directions. Such a structure allows for a relatively large width W5 between the first protrusion 533b and the second protrusion 533c. This minimizes the degree to which the flexible substrate 52 is pressed during the connector-plug matching process, minimizing or eliminating the gap g between the flexible substrate 52 and the tip of the plug housing 51, and further preventing or minimizing increased insertion force and damage to the contact pads 52a of the connector terminals and the flexible substrate 52. Also, by minimizing the degree to which the flexible substrate 52 is pressed against the plug housing 51, a stable contact engagement length can be ensured between the flexible substrate 52 and the connector terminals 20, which can help reduce the overall size of the connector assembly.

[0115] Figure 33 is a perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 34 is an exploded perspective view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 36 is a diagram illustrating the flexible substrate 52 in one embodiment. Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view of a connector 80 assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 38 is a perspective view of the back of the connector 80.

[0116] Referring to Figures 33 to 35, the connector assembly includes a connector 80 mounted on a case 100 and a plug 70 that connects to the connector 80. After the plug 70 connects to the connector 80, a connector position assurance (CPA) unit 90 connects to the plug 70, which prevents the plug 70 from separating from the connector 80. In Figure 33, the case 100 is a component that encloses the electronic device, and for the sake of explanation, only a portion of the case 100 is shown.

[0117] To prevent moisture from penetrating into the case 100 through the connector assembly, a sealing member can be installed in the gap between the connector assembly and the case 100, and between the internal components of the connector assembly.

[0118] Referring to Figure 35, since the flexible substrate 72 is very thin, with a thickness of about 0.05 to 0.3 mm, there is a high risk of external moisture penetrating into the gap between the flexible substrate 72 and the plug housing 71 when the flexible substrate 72 is mounted on the plug housing 71. To prevent this, a first sealing member 73 can be placed between the flexible substrate 72 and the plug housing 71.

[0119] Referring to Figure 36, the plug 70 may include a first cover 74 that connects to one side of the plug housing 71 and a second cover 75 that connects to the other side of the plug housing 71. The first sealing member 73 fits between the first cover 74 and the plug housing 71.

[0120] Referring to Figures 35 and 37, the first sealing member 73 may include a central portion 730 and a first inclined portion 731 and a second inclined portion 732 positioned on either side of the central portion 730, respectively. In the first sealing member 73, the first inclined portion 731, the central portion 730, and the second inclined portion 732 are arranged in that order.

[0121] The first cover 74 surrounds the central portion 730 in the circumferential direction. The first cover 74 compresses the central portion 730 from the inside, thereby ensuring airtightness between the first sealing member 73 and the first cover 74.

[0122] The first sealing member 73 is bonded to the flexible substrate 72 such that the flexible substrate 72 passes through the first inclined portion 731, the central portion 730, and the second inclined portion 732. The first sealing member 73 can be provided on the flexible substrate 72 by integral injection molding. For example, the first sealing member 73 can be formed by directly injecting a liquid material such as rubber or silicone into the flexible substrate 72.

[0123] Referring to Figure 36, the flexible substrate 72 may include first wings 721 extending outward on both sides. The first cover 74 may move along the flexible substrate 72 away from the first sealing member 73, but the first cover 74 is locked to the second wing 722 and cannot move beyond the first wing 721. The second wing 722 allows the first cover 74 to be positioned close to the first sealing member 73, thereby allowing the operator to easily connect the first cover 74 to the plug housing 71 when the flexible substrate 72 is coupled to the plug housing 71. When the first sealing member 73 is formed on the flexible substrate 72 by integral injection, the first cover 74 may be pre-coupled between the position where the first sealing member 73 is formed (e.g., the second wing 722) and the first wing 721.

[0124] The first and second inclined portions 731 and 732 may become thicker as they approach the central portion 730. Referring to Figure 35, in a cross-section of the first sealing member 73 cut vertically, the height of the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732 (length measured vertically VD from the flexible substrate 72) may increase as they approach the central portion 730. Referring to Figure 37, in a cross-section of the first sealing member 73 cut horizontally, the height of the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732 (length measured horizontally HD from the central axis C to the upper surface of the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732) may increase as they approach the central portion 730.

[0125] Referring to Figures 35 and 37, the first cover 74 includes a first hole 741 that accommodates the first inclined portion 731 of the first sealing member 73. The first hole 741 may be provided in a configuration corresponding to the first inclined portion 731. The first hole 741 may be provided in a configuration in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the hole increases as it moves toward the alignment direction CD.

[0126] The plug housing 71 includes a second hole 715 that accommodates the second inclined portion 732 of the first sealing member 73. The second hole 715 may be provided in a configuration corresponding to the second inclined portion 732. The second hole 715 may be provided in a configuration in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the hole decreases as it moves toward the alignment direction CD.

[0127] When the first sealing member 73 is coupled to the plug housing 71, the first cover 74 and the plug housing 71 press the first sealing member 73 horizontally in the HD direction on both sides. The inner surface 742 of the first hole 741 presses the first inclined portion 731 toward the central portion 730 (or in the alignment direction CD), and the inner surface 716 of the second hole 715 presses the second inclined portion 732 toward the central portion 730 (or in the opposite direction to the alignment direction CD).

[0128] Since the first inclined portion 731 is inclined in a shape that widens toward the central portion 730, a portion of the force that the inner surface 742 of the first hole 741 exerts on the first inclined portion 731 toward the central portion 730 is directed toward the lower side of the first inclined portion 731. In other words, the first inclined portion 731 comes to press against the flexible substrate 72.

[0129] Since the second inclined portion 732 is inclined in a shape that widens toward the central portion 730, a portion of the force that the inner surface 716 of the second hole 715 exerts on the second inclined portion 732 toward the central portion 730 is directed toward the lower side of the second inclined portion 732. In other words, the second inclined portion 732 comes to press against the flexible substrate 72.

[0130] The downward force acting on the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732 presses the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732 toward the flexible substrate 72, thereby improving the airtightness between the first sealing member 73 and the flexible substrate 72.

[0131] Referring to Figure 37, the flexible substrate 72 may include a second wing 722. The second wing 722 protrudes outward in the horizontal direction HD. The second wing 722 may include a third inclined portion 722a extending upward and to the right, a horizontal portion 722c extending to the right from the third inclined portion 722a, and a fourth inclined portion 722b extending downward and to the right from the horizontal portion 722c. The second wing 722 is enclosed by a first sealing member 73. The third inclined portion 722a, the horizontal portion 722c, and the fourth inclined portion 722b are enclosed by a first inclined portion 731, a central portion 730, and a second inclined portion 732 of the first sealing member 73, respectively. The third and fourth inclined portions have inclinations corresponding to the first and second inclined portions 731 and 732, respectively.

[0132] By arranging a third inclined portion 722a having an inclination corresponding to the first inclined portion 731 in the portion of the flexible substrate 72 surrounded by the first inclined portion 731, the airtightness between the first inclined portion 731 and the third inclined portion 722a is improved. By arranging a fourth inclined portion 722b having an inclination corresponding to the second inclined portion 732 in the portion of the flexible substrate 72 surrounded by the second inclined portion 732, the airtightness between the second inclined portion 732 and the fourth inclined portion 722b is improved.

[0133] Referring to Figures 34 to 37, the connector housing 81 may include a first projection 811. The plug housing 71, flexible substrate 72, and second cover 75 may include a first housing 712, a second housing 723, and a third housing 751, each configured to accommodate the first projection 811. The first projection 811 and the first, second, and third housings 712, 723, and 751 are positioned deviating from the central axis C. For example, referring to Figures 36 and 37, the first projection 811 and the first, second, and third housings 712, 723, and 751 may be positioned above the central axis C of the connector assembly.

[0134] The second cover 75 may include a second projection 752 projecting in the alignment direction CD. The connector housing 81 may include a fourth housing 814 configured to accommodate the second projection 752. The second projection 752 and the fourth housing 814 are located deviating from the central axis C. For example, referring to Figures 36 and 37, the second projection 752 and the fourth housing 814 may be located below the central axis C of the connector assembly.

[0135] When the plug 70 enters the connector 80 in the correct orientation, the protrusions 811 and 752 are accommodated in the housings 712, 723, 751, and 814 as the plug 70 connects to the connector 80. If the plug 70 enters the connector 80 in the wrong orientation, the protrusions 811 and 752 and the housings 712, 723, 751, and 814 will not be aligned with each other, which prevents the plug 70 from being inserted incorrectly or in reverse.

[0136] Referring to Figures 35 to 38, a second sealing member 83 can be provided that surrounds the connector terminal 82 coupled to the connector housing 81. The connector housing 81 may include a slot 815 that is open on the lower side. The connector terminal 82 passes through the slot 815. A waterproof material such as liquid rubber or silicone can be filled into the hole to form the second sealing member 83. This prevents moisture from penetrating into the gap between the connector housing 81 and the connector terminal 82.

[0137] Referring to Figures 34 and 35, a third sealing member 84 is fitted between the connector housing 81 and the case 100. The connector housing 81 may include a flange 813 extending along the third sealing member 84. The flange 813 contacting one side surface 84a of the third sealing member 84 can improve the airtightness between the case 100 and the connector housing 81.

[0138] Referring to Figures 34 and 38, the connector housing 81 may include an extension 812 that protrudes toward the plug 70. The end of the extension 812 is provided with a hook 812a, which can be fitted into a locking groove 713 provided in the plug housing 71.

[0139] While the technical concept of this disclosure has been explained above by some embodiments and examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that various substitutions, modifications, and alterations may be made, provided that they do not deviate from the technical concept and scope of this disclosure as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, such substitutions, modifications, and alterations should be considered to fall within the scope of the attached claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0140] 1. Connector assembly 10 connectors 20 Connector terminals 30 plugs 40 Flexible substrate

Claims

1. A connector assembly including a connector and a plug fastened to the connector, The connector terminals provided on the aforementioned connector are The main unit and A first arm extending forward from the main body, A first contact portion provided at one end of the first arm, A second arm extends forward from the main body and is positioned above the first arm, Including a second contact portion formed at one end of the second arm and located rearward from the first contact portion, The plug includes a plug housing that includes a mounting surface on which a flexible substrate is mounted and a tip portion that is positioned at the connector end of the mounting surface and protrudes downward from the mounting surface. When the plug is fastened to the connector, the first and second contact portions of the connector are located below the aforementioned mounting surface. The tip portion and the connector terminal are configured such that when the tip portion of the plug housing, without the flexible substrate attached, presses the second contact portion downward, the front end of the second contact portion presses the first arm downward. Connector assembly.

2. The aforementioned tip portion includes a first bottom surface located below the aforementioned surface, The tip portion includes a projection extending from the tip portion toward the connector, and the second bottom surface of the projection portion is located above the first bottom surface. The connector assembly according to claim 1.

3. The first contact portion includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface located behind the first inclined surface, wherein the angle that the first inclined surface makes with the horizontal line is greater than the angle that the second inclined surface makes with the horizontal line. The tip portion is configured such that, when the tip portion first contacts the second inclined surface while the plug is being inserted into the connector, the first inclined surface separates from the tip portion. The connector assembly according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned tip portion includes a bottom surface and an inclined surface extending upward from the connector-side end of the bottom surface. The tip portion is configured such that when the boundary point between the bottom surface and the inclined surface contacts the first contact portion, the tip portion separates from the second contact portion. The connector assembly according to claim 1.

5. A connector assembly including a connector and a plug fastened to the connector, The connector terminals provided on the aforementioned connector are The main unit and A first arm extending forward from the main body, A first contact portion provided at one end of the first arm, A second arm extends forward from the main body and is positioned above the first arm, Including a second contact portion formed at one end of the second arm and located rearward from the first contact portion, The plug includes a plug housing that includes a mounting surface on which a flexible substrate is mounted and a tip portion that is positioned at the connector-side end of the mounting surface and protrudes downward from the mounting surface. The tip portion includes a bottom surface that defines the lowest surface of the tip portion and extends horizontally in the alignment direction from the first end to the second end. The connector terminals and the plug housing are, in the process of the plug being inserted into the connector, When the bottom surface passes the first contact portion, it is configured such that the bottom surface does not contact the second contact portion before the first end of the bottom surface passes the apex of the first contact portion. The bottom surface is configured such that when the first end of the bottom surface separates from the first contact portion, the second end of the bottom surface comes into contact with the second contact portion. Connector assembly.

6. The connector terminal and the plug housing are configured such that, in the process of the plug being removed from the connector, the tip portion does not come into contact with the first contact portion before the second end of the bottom surface passes the apex of the second contact portion. The connector assembly according to claim 5.

7. A connector matching process in which a plug is inserted into a connector, The connector terminals provided on the aforementioned connector are The main unit and A first arm extending forward from the main body, A first contact portion provided at one end of the first arm, A second arm extends forward from the main body and is positioned above the first arm, Including a second contact portion formed at one end of the second arm and located rearward from the first contact portion, The plug includes a plug housing that includes a mounting surface on which a flexible substrate is mounted and a tip portion that is positioned at the connector-side end of the mounting surface and protrudes downward from the mounting surface. The tip portion includes a bottom surface that defines the lowest surface of the tip portion and extends horizontally in the alignment direction from the first end to the second end. The connector matching process is as follows: (a) A step in which the bottom surface passes over the apex of the first contact portion, (b) a step in which the bottom surface passes over the apex of the second contact portion, In step (a), the bottom surface does not come into contact with the second contact portion before the first end of the bottom surface passes the apex of the first contact portion. In step (b), when the first end of the bottom surface separates from the first contact portion, the second end of the bottom surface remains in contact with the second contact portion. Connector alignment process.

8. A connector removal process in which a plug inserted into a connector is removed from the connector, The connector terminals provided on the aforementioned connector are The main unit and A first arm extending forward from the main body, A first contact portion provided at one end of the first arm, A second arm extends forward from the main body and is positioned above the first arm, Including a second contact portion formed at one end of the second arm and located rearward from the first contact portion, The plug includes a plug housing that includes a mounting surface on which a flexible substrate is mounted and a tip portion that is positioned at the connector-side end of the mounting surface and protrudes downward from the mounting surface. The tip portion includes a bottom surface that defines the lowest surface of the tip portion and extends horizontally in the alignment direction from the first end to the second end. The aforementioned connector removal process is: (a) A step in which the bottom surface of the tip portion passes over the apex of the second contact portion, (b) a step in which the bottom surface of the tip portion passes over the apex of the first contact portion, In step (a), the tip portion does not come into contact with the first contact portion before the second end of the bottom surface passes the apex of the second contact portion. In step (b), when the first end of the bottom surface first contacts the first contact portion, the second end of the bottom surface is in contact with the second contact portion. Connector removal process.

9. In step (a), the front end of the second contact portion presses the first arm downward. The connector removal process according to claim 8.

10. In step (a), the front end of the second contact portion presses the first arm downward before the first end of the bottom surface contacts the first contact portion. The connector removal process according to claim 9.

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