Easy Lock Connector Assembly

Abstract

The present invention provides an easy-lock connector assembly that includes a first connector and a second connector. [Solution] The first connector (10) includes a first insulating housing and a first metal shell. The first insulating housing has an accommodating space. The second connector is inserted into the accommodating space along a first direction (D1). The second connector (20) includes a second insulating housing, a second metal shell, and an operating member. The second insulating housing is formed with a locking arm. The locking arm is configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in a second direction (D2) perpendicular to the first direction and is always biased toward the locked position. The operating member is movably held by the second insulating housing and is positioned to press the locking arm away from the locked position. This allows the present invention to realize an easy-lock connector assembly (1) with good operability and high reliability.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an easy-lock connector assembly, and more particularly to a thin easy-lock connector assembly with good operability. [Background technology]

[0002] Taiwan Utility Model No. M644042U (Patent Document 1) discloses a flexible flat cable connector. The connector in Patent Document 1 has an operating member pivotally supported on an insulating housing. The flexible flat cable is unlocked by pressing the body of the operating member to swing it. However, this type of operating member has a certain thickness, making it unsuitable for realizing a thin connector.

[0003] Taiwan Utility Model Publication No. M591717U (Patent Document 2) discloses a connector for flexible flat cables. Patent Document 2 discloses attaching a male connector housing to the insertion end of a flexible flat cable. This allows the mating direction between the flexible flat cable and the easy-lock connector to be changed, making it possible to easily insert the flexible flat cable into the easy-lock connector using an automated system. Furthermore, this system improves the operability of the flexible flat cable and provides better protection for the flexible flat cable. However, the easy-lock connector disclosed in Patent Document 2 requires simultaneous operation of two separate locking members to release the flexible flat cable, resulting in poor unlocking operability. Because the operating portion of the locking member and the main body of the flexible flat cable are located on the same side, the unlocking operation may be obstructed by the main body of the flexible flat cable. Furthermore, the locking member extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the flexible flat cable, thereby increasing the longitudinal dimension of the connector's flexible flat cable. It also increases the mounting area of ​​the socket connector for board mounting. Summary of the Invention

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an easy-lock connector assembly that is easy to operate and highly reliable.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a thin, easy-lock connector assembly suitable for small or thin electronic devices with tight space constraints.

[0006] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an easy-lock connector assembly that is advantageous for automated assembly.

[0007] The present invention provides an easy-lock connector assembly, which includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is a first insulating housing having an accommodating space, the second connector being inserted into the accommodating space along a first direction and at least a portion of the second connector being accommodated in the accommodating space; a plurality of contacts held by the first insulating housing, arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each contact having a contact portion extending into the accommodating space and a connection terminal portion located on the opposite side of the contact portion; a first metal shell that covers a portion of the first insulating housing and has two first engagement portions that face each other in the second direction. The second connector is a second insulating housing; a second metal shell covering a portion of the second insulating housing, having two locking arms formed on both sides in the second direction, each of the locking arms extending in the first direction, each of the locking arms configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction and always biased toward the locked position, each of the locking arms having a second engaging portion formed thereon, which engages with the first engaging portion when the second connector is mated with the first connector, preventing the second connector from separating from the first connector; and two operating members that are held by the second insulating housing so as to be movable in the second direction, are configured to be able to press each of the locking arms in the second direction, and, when operated, move the two locking arms away from the locking position in the second direction, allowing the second connector to be removed from the first connector.

[0008] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the second insulating housing has two guide posts formed on its bottom surface, the guide posts extending in the first direction; In the process of fitting the second connector and the first connector, the guide post functions to guide the insertion of the second connector into the accommodating space.

[0009] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the end of each guide post is chamfered.

[0010] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the first insulating housing is formed with two guide post holes into which the two guide posts are inserted.

[0011] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, each guide post surrounds a portion of each of the locking arms.

[0012] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the locking arm is configured in a U-shape.

[0013] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the locking arm is configured in an L-shape.

[0014] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the second metal shell is composed of an upper shell and a lower shell, the upper shell is disposed above the second insulating housing; the lower shell is disposed below the second insulating housing, the second connector further includes a flat connection object, the flat connection object includes a head portion and a plurality of electrode portions formed on the head portion, the head portion of the flat connection object is accommodated in a space defined by the second insulating housing and the lower shell, the plurality of electrode portions are exposed from the lower shell, When the second connector is mated with the first connector, the plurality of electrode portions are electrically connected to the plurality of contacts of the first connector, respectively.

[0015] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the two operating members are respectively disposed at both ends of the second insulating housing in the second direction; Each of the operating members includes a main body portion and a rail portion extending from the main body portion in the second direction, The second insulating housing has rail channels formed at both ends thereof into which the rail portions are inserted.

[0016] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, the rail portion has a protrusion, The protrusion is configured to prevent the rail portion from leaving the rail channel.

[0017] In the easy-lock connector assembly of the present invention, by providing an operating member that operates in the second direction (width direction), the dimension of the easy-lock connector assembly in the third direction (front-rear direction) can be reduced.

[0018] Furthermore, since the locking mechanism is not located in the first connector, which is a board-mounted connector, the difficulty of maintenance is significantly reduced.

[0019] Those skilled in the art will be able to fully understand the technical features, other objects and advantages of the present invention by reading the specification and accompanying drawings of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an easy-lock connector assembly in a mated state according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an unmated easy-lock connector assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first insulating housing of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a contact of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first metal shell of a socket connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is another perspective view of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a second insulating housing of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an upper shell of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a front view of a plug connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention, without showing the second insulating housing; [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in a locked state according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 16] Cross section along line AA in Figure 14 [Figure 17] Cross section along line BB in Figure 15 [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a top view of an easy-lock connector assembly in an unlocked state according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 19] Cross section along line CC in Figure 18 [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an unmated easy-lock connector assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a socket connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a second insulating housing of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the upper shell of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a front view of a plug connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention, without showing the second insulating housing; [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly in the locked state according to the second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 28] Cross section along line DD in Figure 26 [Figure 29] Cross section along line EE in Figure 27 [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly in an unlocked state according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 31] Cross section along line FF in Figure 30 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Hereinafter, an easy-lock connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, similar components or components having the same function are designated by the same reference numerals. The drawings are not drawn to actual scale.

[0022] [First Example]

[0023] An easy-lock connector assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the easy-lock connector assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention in a mated state. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the easy-lock connector assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention in an unmated state. The easy-lock connector assembly is generally designated by the reference numeral 1. The easy-lock connector assembly 1 includes a socket connector 10 as a first connector and a plug connector 20 as a second connector. The plug connector 20 mates with the socket connector 10 in a first direction D1.

[0024] In this embodiment, the socket connector 10 is a board-mounted connector. The plug connector 20 is formed by attaching a connector housing (i.e., second insulating housing) and a connector shell (i.e., second metal shell) to the head portion of a flat connection object, such as a flexible flat cable (FFC) or a flexible flat circuit board (FPC). In this specification, an assembly consisting of the connector housing (i.e., second insulating housing), connector shell (i.e., second metal shell), and flat connection object is referred to as a "second connector" or a "plug connector."

[0025] A socket connector 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the socket connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the socket connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The socket connector 10 includes a first insulating housing 11, a first metal shell 12, and a plurality of contacts 13.

[0026] The plug connector 20 is inserted into the socket connector 10 along a first direction D1 (i.e., height direction or mating direction). A flat connection object forming a part of the plug connector 20 may be, but is not limited to, a flexible flat cable (FFC) or a flexible flat circuit board (FPC). The flat connection object may be a card board. The flat connection object has a plurality of electrodes formed on a head portion of the flat connection object. The plug connector 20 may be a wire-side connector in a wire-to-board connector assembly.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the first insulating housing 11. The structure of the first insulating housing 11 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The first insulating housing 11 is made of insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The first insulating housing 11 has a flat rectangular body 110 and a peripheral wall formed on the edge of the flat rectangular body 110. The accommodation space SP is defined by the flat rectangular body 110 and the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall is formed by a front wall portion 111 and a rear wall portion 112 facing the front wall portion 111.

[0028] A plurality of contact receiving grooves 1101 are formed in the flat rectangular body 110. The contact receiving grooves 1101 are arranged along the second direction D2 (i.e., the width direction) and are spaced apart from one another. The flat rectangular body 110 has two guide post holes 1102 spaced apart in the second direction D2. The upper edge of each guide post hole 1102 is chamfered. A recess 1103 is formed in the upper edge of the inner surface of each guide post hole 1102.

[0029] A notch 1110 is formed in the front wall portion 111. The formation of the notch 1110 makes it possible to avoid interference between the front wall portion 111 and the main body of a flat connection object (for example, a cable portion).

[0030] The rear wall 112 is formed with a plurality of contact holding holes 1121. Each contact holding hole 1121 communicates with a corresponding contact accommodating groove 1101. The rear wall 112 is further formed with two protrusions 1122 for fixing the first metal shell 12 to the first insulating housing 11.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a plurality of contacts 13. The contacts 13 are arranged in a row along the second direction D2 and held by the first insulating housing 11. Each contact 13 is made of copper or a copper alloy. The contact 13 has a connection terminal portion 131, a held portion 132, a contact arm 133, and a contact portion 134. The contact arm 133 extends from one end of the held portion 132. The connection terminal portion 131 extends from the other end of the held portion 132. The held portion 132 has a barb structure. The held portion 132 is inserted into the contact holding hole 1121 by an interference fit. The contact portion 134 is formed at the distal end of the contact arm 133. Each contact arm 133 extends substantially in the third direction D3 (front-rear direction) within each contact receiving groove 1101 to the receiving space SP. The contact portion 134 comes into contact with an electrode portion formed on a flat connection object. The third direction D3 is perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The connection terminal portion 131 protrudes from the first insulating housing 11. The connection terminal portion 131 is soldered to a solder pad formed on a circuit board by surface mount technology (SMT).

[0032] 7 is a perspective view showing the first metal shell 12. The first metal shell 12 is formed by pressing and bending a metal plate (e.g., a plate material made of stainless steel or phosphor bronze). The first metal shell 12 is configured to be substantially U-shaped when viewed from the first direction D1. The first metal shell 12 has two shell side portions 121 and a connecting portion 120 connecting the two shell side portions 121.

[0033] The lower edge of the shell side portion 121 has a first soldering portion 1211 near the front end and a second soldering portion 1212 near the rear end. The first soldering portion 1211 and the second soldering portion 1212 are soldered to solder pads formed on a circuit board using surface mount technology (SMT). This allows the socket connector 10 to be stably mounted on the board. The upper edge of the shell side portion 121 has a stopper portion 1213 serving as a first engagement portion approximately in the middle. A retained portion 1214 is formed at the far end of the shell side portion 121. The retained portion 1214 has a barb structure and is inserted into a retaining hole formed in the first insulating housing 11 by an interference fit. This secures the far end of the shell side portion 121 to the first insulating housing 11.

[0034] An engaging portion 1201 is formed on the rear edge of the connecting portion 120. The engaging portion 1201 engages with a protrusion 1122 on the rear wall portion 112 of the first insulating housing 11. A retained portion 1202 is formed on the inner edge of the connecting portion 120. The retained portion 1202 has a barb structure and is inserted into a retaining hole formed in the first insulating housing 11 by an interference fit. This secures the connecting portion 120 to the first insulating housing 11. The engagement between the engaging portion 1201 and the protrusion 1122 further prevents the first metal shell 12 from separating from the first insulating housing 11.

[0035] An alignment hole 1203 is formed in the connecting portion 120. When the plug connector 20 is picked up by a robot arm and aligned with the accommodation space SP of the socket connector 10, the alignment hole 1203 functions as an alignment mark for recognition by a machine vision system.

[0036] A plug connector 20 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8, 9, and 10. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is another perspective view of the plug connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the plug connector 20 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The plug connector 20 includes a second insulating housing 21, a second metal shell, two operating members 24, and a flat connecting object 25. The second metal shell is composed of an upper shell 22 and a lower shell 23.

[0037] The second insulating housing 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 . FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the second insulating housing 21. The second insulating housing 21 is made of an insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The second insulating housing 21 includes a flat, rectangular main body 210 and side portions 211 located on both sides of the main body 210 in the second direction D2. Four positioning holes 2101 for positioning the upper shell 22 are formed in the upper surface of the main body 210. Two protrusions 2102 are formed in the lower surface of the main body 210. The protrusions 2102 engage with notches 2510 (described below) in the flat connection object 25. Each side portion 211 is formed with a lock arm receiving hole 2110. As shown in FIG. 11 , each side portion 211 is formed with a guide post 2111 extending downward in the first direction from its lower surface. The guide posts 2111 guide the insertion of the plug connector 20 and position the plug connector 20.

[0038] The upper shell 22 and the lower shell 23 will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 12. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the upper shell 22. Details of the upper shell 22 are shown in Figures 10 and 12. Details of the lower shell 23 are shown in Figure 10. The upper shell 22 and the lower shell 23 are formed by pressing and bending a metal plate (for example, a plate made of stainless steel or phosphorus bronze). The upper shell 22 is disposed above the second insulating housing 21. The lower shell 23 is disposed below the second insulating housing 21.

[0039] The upper shell 22 has a main body 220. The main body 220 of the upper shell 22 has a flat surface and can be sucked by a vacuum nozzle. An alignment hole 2201 is formed in the main body 220 of the upper shell 22. Similar to the alignment hole 1203, the alignment hole 2201 functions as an alignment mark for recognition by a machine vision system. The main body 220 of the upper shell 22 has two locking arms 221 formed on both edges in the second direction D2, each extending in the first direction D1. When the upper shell 22 is assembled to the second insulating housing 21, the locking arms 221 are positioned in the receiving holes 2110 and are partially surrounded by the guide posts 2111. A portion of the locking arms 221 is not surrounded by the guide posts 2111. The guide posts 2111 function to protect the locking arms 221 and prevent them from being accidentally hit. In the first embodiment, each locking arm 221 is U-shaped. Each locking arm 221 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction D2 and is always biased toward the locked position. Each locking arm 221 is formed with a locking portion 2211 as a second engaging portion. When the plug connector 20 is mated with the socket connector 10, the locking portion 2211 (second engaging portion) engages with a stopper portion 1213 (first engaging portion) formed on the first metal shell, thereby preventing the plug connector 20 from separating from the socket connector 10. Furthermore, two engaging portions 222 are formed on each side edge of the main body 220 of the upper shell 22. Four positioning tabs 2202 that fit into the positioning holes 2101 are formed on the underside of the upper shell 22. By inserting the positioning tabs 2202 into the positioning holes 2101, the upper shell 22 is prevented from moving relative to the second insulating housing 21 within a plane perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0040] The lower shell 23 has a main body 230. The main body 230 has a notch 2301. A portion of the bottom surface of the flat connection object 25 is exposed through the notch 2301. Two first restriction portions 2302 and two second restriction portions 2303 are formed on the front and rear edges of the lower shell 23. Two protrusions 232 are formed on each side edge of the lower shell 23. By engagement between the protrusions 232 and the engaging portions 222, the upper shell 22 and the lower shell 23 are joined to each other to form a second metal shell.

[0041] Two protrusions 2304 are further formed as gap adjustment parts on the main body 230 of the lower shell 23. The protrusions 2304 prevent the flat connection object 25 from swinging up and down relative to the second insulating housing 21 and the lower shell 23.

[0042] The flat connection object 25 will be described with reference to FIG. 10 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the flat connection object 25 includes a head portion 251 and an extension portion 250. Notches 2510 are formed on each side edge of the head portion 251. In this embodiment, the flat connection object 25 is a flexible flat cable (FFC). The extension portion 250 is a cable body. Another head portion is formed on the other end of the cable body. A plurality of electrodes are formed on the bottom surface of the head portion 251 near the insertion end or front edge, and are arranged in the second direction D2. The head portion 251 of the flat connection object 25 is accommodated in a space defined by the second insulating housing 21 and the lower shell 23. These electrodes are exposed through notches 2301 in the lower shell 23. When the plug connector 20 is mated with the socket connector 10, these electrodes are electrically connected to the contacts 13 of the socket connector 10.

[0043] The plug connector 20 further includes two operating members 24. The two operating members 24 are held by the two side portions 211 of the second insulating housing 21 so as to be movable in the second direction D2. Each operating member 24 is arranged so as to be able to press a corresponding locking arm 221 in the second direction D2. By operating the operating member 24 (for example, by pressing the operating member 24 toward the inside of the plug connector in the second direction D2), the locking arm 221 moves away from the locked position in the second direction D2. This causes the engaging portion 2211 of the locking arm 221 to move away from the stopper portion 1213 of the first metal shell 12, allowing the plug connector 20 to be removed from the socket connector 10.

[0044] Each operating member 24 includes a main body portion 240, two rail portions 241, and a pressing portion 242. The rail portions 241 and the pressing portion 242 extend from the main body portion 240 in the second direction. The rail portions 241 are configured to guide movement of the operating members 24 in the second direction D2. The pressing portions 242 are configured to press the locking arms 221 inward in the second direction D2.

[0045] In other embodiments or variations, the rail portion may function as the pressing portion, or the pressing portion may function as the rail portion.

[0046] The first and second restricting portions 2302 and 2303 formed on the main body 230 of the lower shell 23 abut against the front and rear edges, respectively, of the head 251 of the flat connection object 25, thereby preventing the flat connection object 25 from moving in the third direction D3 relative to the second insulating housing. The protrusion 2102 abuts against the edge of the notch 2510 of the flat connection object 25, thereby preventing the flat connection object 25 from moving in the second direction D2 relative to the second insulating housing.

[0047] Figure 13 is a front view of the plug connector 20 of the first embodiment. For clarity, the second insulating housing is not shown in Figure 13. As shown in Figure 13, the operating member 24 is configured so that the pressing portion 242 presses the U-shaped locking arm 221 inward in the second direction D2, thereby moving the locking arm 221 away from the lock position.

[0048] FIG. 14 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the first embodiment in a locked state. FIG. 15 is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the first embodiment in a locked state. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 14. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. 16, the locking portion 2211 serving as the second engagement portion engages with the stopper portion 1213 serving as the first engagement portion. This prevents the plug connector 20 from moving upward in the first direction D1 relative to the socket connector. In this case, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in a locked state. As shown in FIG. 17, the rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is inserted into a rail channel formed in the second insulating housing. The operating member 24 is movably held by the second insulating housing. A protrusion 2411 is formed on the rail portion 241. The protrusion 2411 engages with a recess formed in the rail channel. This prevents the rail portion 241 from leaving the rail channel. In other words, it is possible to prevent the operating member 24 from falling off the second insulating housing. The operating member 24 is configured to be movable only within a certain range. Because the movement range of the operating member 24 is limited, it is possible to prevent the lock arm from being pressed excessively.

[0049] Figure 18 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the first embodiment in an unlocked state. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Figure 18. As shown in Figure 19, the locking arm 221 is pressed inward in the second direction by the pressing portion 242 of the operating member 24, causing the engaging portion 2211 of the locking arm 221 to move away from the stopper portion 1213. In this case, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in an unlocked state, and the plug connector 20 can be removed from the socket connector 10.

[0050] [Second Example]

[0051] An easy-lock connector assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 20. Figure 20 is a perspective view showing an easy-lock connector assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention in an unmated state. Elements that are the same as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. The easy-lock connector assembly is generally designated by the reference numeral 1. The easy-lock connector assembly 1 includes a socket connector 10 as a first connector and a plug connector 20 as a second connector. The plug connector 20 mates with the socket connector 10 in a first direction D1.

[0052] A socket connector 10 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 21 . FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the socket connector according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The socket connector 10 includes a first insulating housing 11, a first metal shell 12, and a plurality of contacts 13. The socket connector according to the second embodiment differs from the socket connector according to the first embodiment mainly in that two notches 1104 and two notches 1215 are formed on each side edge of the first insulating housing 11 and each side edge of the first metal shell, respectively. The two notches 1104 are located on both sides of the recess 1103. The two notches 1215 are located on both sides of a stopper portion 1213, which serves as a first engagement portion. The rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 passes through the notches 1104 and 1215 and contacts the locking arm 223.

[0053] A plug connector 20 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 22. Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of the plug connector according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The plug connector 20 includes a second insulating housing 21, a second metal shell, two operating members 24, and a flat connecting object 25. The second metal shell is composed of an upper shell 22 and a lower shell 23. The main difference between the plug connector of the second embodiment and the plug connector of the first embodiment is the structure of the upper shell and the operating member. The lower shell and flat connecting object of the second embodiment are generally the same as those of the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0054] The second insulating housing 21 will be described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the second insulating housing 21. The second insulating housing 21 is made of an insulating synthetic resin or polymer material. The second insulating housing 21 includes a flat, rectangular main body 210 and side portions 211 located on both sides of the main body 210 in the second direction D2. The second insulating housing of the second embodiment has no apparent difference in appearance from the second insulating housing of the first embodiment.

[0055] The upper shell 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 24. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing the upper shell 22. Two lock arms 223 extending in the first direction D1 are formed on both edge portions of the main body 220 of the upper shell 22 in the second direction D2. Each lock arm 223 is configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction D2 and is always biased toward the locked position. Each lock arm 223 is formed with a locking portion 2231 as a second engaging portion. When the plug connector 20 is mated with the socket connector 10, the locking portion 2231 (second engaging portion) engages with a stopper portion 1213 (first engaging portion) formed on the first metal shell, preventing the plug connector 20 from separating from the socket connector 10. The main difference between the upper shell of the second embodiment and the upper shell of the first embodiment is the structure of the locking arm. In the second embodiment, the locking arm 223 is configured to be L-shaped.

[0056] As shown in Figure 22, each operating member 24 includes a main body portion 240 and two rail portions 241. The operating member of the second embodiment differs from the operating member of the first embodiment in that the rail portion 241 of the operating member of the second embodiment functions as a pressing portion. In the second embodiment, the rail portion 241 extends to the lock arm 223. The lock arm 223 is pressed by the rail portion 241.

[0057] Figure 25 is a front view of the plug connector 20 of the second embodiment. For clarity, the second insulating housing is not shown in Figure 25. As shown in Figure 25, the operating member 24 is configured so that the rail portion 241 presses the L-shaped locking arm 223 inward in the second direction D2, thereby moving the locking arm 223 away from the locked position. The rail portion 241 is formed near the lower edge of the main body of the operating member 24 to apply a pressing force to the end portion of the L-shaped locking arm 223.

[0058] FIG. 26 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in a locked state. FIG. 27 is a front view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in a locked state. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 26. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. 27. As shown in FIG. 28, the locking portion 2231 serving as the second engagement portion engages with the stopper portion 1213 serving as the first engagement portion. This prevents the plug connector 20 from moving upward in the first direction D1 relative to the socket connector. In this case, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in a locked state. As shown in FIG. 29, the rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is inserted into a rail channel formed in the second insulating housing. The operating member 24 is movably held by the second insulating housing. A protrusion 2411 is formed on the rail portion 241. The protrusion 2411 engages with a recess formed in the rail channel. This prevents the rail portion 241 from leaving the rail channel. In the second embodiment, the rail portion 241 of the operating member 24 is configured to press the L-shaped locking arm 223 inward in the second direction D2. The operating member 24 is configured to be movable only within a certain range, which prevents the locking arm from being excessively pressed.

[0059] Figure 30 is a top view of the easy-lock connector assembly 1 of the second embodiment in an unlocked state. Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line FF in Figure 30. As shown in Figure 31, the L-shaped locking arm 223 is pressed inward in the second direction D2 by the rail portion 241 of the operating member 24. This causes the engaging portion 2231 of the L-shaped locking arm 223 to move away from the stopper portion 1213. In this case, the easy-lock connector assembly 1 is in an unlocked state, and the plug connector 20 can be removed from the socket connector 10.

[0060] The easy-lock connector of the present invention certainly combines the advantages of thinness and good operability. Furthermore, the easy-lock connector of the present invention is particularly suitable for small or thin electronic devices with strict space constraints. The easy-lock connector of the present invention is also suitable for automated assembly of the easy-lock connector with flat connecting objects.

[0061] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art may make various modifications as appropriate within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but is subject to the scope of the utility model registration claims. In other words, equivalent changes and modifications that do not depart from the scope of the utility model registration claims of the present invention shall remain within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 1 Easy Lock Connector Assembly 10-socket connector 11 First insulating housing 110 Flat rectangular body 1101 Contact receiving groove 1102 Guide post hole 1103 Recess 1104 Notch 111 Front wall 1110 Notch 112 Rear wall 1121 Contact retention hole 1122 Protrusion 12 First metal shell 120 Connection 1201 Engagement part 1202 Holding part 1203 Alignment hole 121 Shell side 1211 First soldering section 1212 Second soldering section 1213 Stopper part 1214 Holding part 1215 Notch 13 Contact 131 Connection terminal 132 Holding part 133 Contact Arm 134 Contact part 20 plug connector 21 Second insulating housing 210 Main body 2101 Positioning hole 2102 Protrusion 211 Side 2110 Receiving hole 2111 Guidepost 22 Upper shell 220 Main body 2201 Alignment hole 2202 Positioning piece 221 Lock Arm 2211 Locking part 222 Engagement part 223 Lock Arm 2231 Locking part 23 Lower shell 230 Main body 23102301 Notch 2302 First Regulatory Department 2303 Second Regulatory Department 2304 Protrusion 232 Protrusion 24 Operating member 240 Main body 241 Rail section 2411 Protrusion 242 Pressing part 25 Flat connecting object 250 Stretching section 2510 Notch 251 Head D1 1st direction D2 2nd direction D3 Third direction SP Containment Space

Claims

1. 1. An easy-lock connector assembly comprising a first connector and a second connector, The first connector is a first insulating housing having an accommodating space, the second connector being inserted into the accommodating space along a first direction and at least a portion of the second connector being accommodated in the accommodating space; a plurality of contacts held by the first insulating housing, arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, each contact having a contact portion extending into the accommodating space and a connection terminal portion located on the opposite side of the contact portion; a first metal shell covering a portion of the first insulating housing and having two first engaging portions formed thereon that face each other in the second direction; The second connector is a second insulating housing; a second metal shell covering a portion of the second insulating housing, having two locking arms formed on both sides in the second direction, each of the locking arms extending in the first direction, each of the locking arms configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the second direction and always biased toward the locked position, each of the locking arms having a second engaging portion formed thereon, which engages with the first engaging portion when the second connector is mated with the first connector, preventing the second connector from separating from the first connector; an operating member that is held by the second insulating housing so as to be movable in the second direction, that is configured to be able to press each of the locking arms in the second direction, and that, when operated, moves the two locking arms away from the locking position in the second direction, allowing the second connector to be removed from the first connector.

2. The second insulating housing has two guide posts formed on a bottom surface thereof, the guide posts extending in the first direction.

2. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the guide post functions to guide the insertion of the second connector into the accommodating space during the mating process between the second connector and the first connector.

3. 3. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the end of each of said guide posts is chamfered.

4. 3. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first insulating housing is formed with two guide post holes into which the two guide posts are inserted.

5. 5. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the guide posts surrounds a portion of each of the locking arms.

6. 5. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking arm is configured in a U-shape.

7. 5. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking arm is configured in an L-shape.

8. the second metal shell comprises an upper shell and a lower shell; the upper shell is disposed above the second insulating housing, the lower shell is disposed below the second insulating housing, The second connector further includes a flat connection object, the flat connection object includes a head portion and a plurality of electrode portions formed on the head portion, the head portion of the flat connecting object is accommodated in a space defined by the second insulating housing and the lower shell, the plurality of electrode portions are exposed from the lower shell, 5. An easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein when the second connector is mated with the first connector, the plurality of electrode portions are electrically connected to the plurality of contacts of the first connector, respectively.

9. the two operating members are respectively disposed at both ends of the second insulating housing in the second direction, Each of the operating members includes a main body portion and a rail portion extending from the main body portion in the second direction, 5. The easy-lock connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second insulating housing has rail channels formed at both ends thereof into which the rail portions are inserted.

10. The rail portion has a protrusion, 10. The easy-lock connector assembly of claim 9, wherein the protrusion is configured to prevent the rail portion from leaving the rail channel.

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