Half-fit detection structure

Abstract

A half-fit detection structure is provided for ensuring a correct fit state of a voltage measurement connector in a fuel cell. [Solution] The detection means has a connectable part 32 that is connected to the CPA member 31, and a control mechanism N that controls the sliding action of the CPA member 31, and the engaged state transitions from a semi-engaged state to a fully engaged state, and the control mechanism N includes a biasing member W provided on the connector B and a pressing part M provided on the inner surface of the through hole h, and in the semi-engaged state, the biasing member W is positioned in a sliding limiting position where it collides with the CPA member 31, and in the fully engaged state, it is pressed by the pressing part M to be positioned in a sliding allowing position where it does not collide with the CPA member 31, and with the biasing member W positioned in the sliding limiting position, the sliding range of the CPA member 31 is limited to a range where it cannot be connected to the connectable part 32, and with the biasing member W positioned in the sliding allowing position, the sliding range of the CPA member 31 is allowed to a range where it can be connected to the connectable part 32.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure for detecting a semi-fitted state of a voltage measurement connector in a fuel cell. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the advantages of fuel cells have been attracting attention against the backdrop of active efforts around the world to reduce the environmental impact.

[0003] Fuel cells can generate electricity using only hydrogen and oxygen, and because they only emit water during power generation, they place a low burden on the environment. In addition, fuel cells have many advantages, such as no noise being generated because electricity is generated solely through chemical reactions, there being little transmission loss, and the fuel is easily available.

[0004] Incidentally, a fuel cell is generally constructed by stacking a plurality of roughly plate-shaped components called cells, each of which is capable of generating electricity by reacting hydrogen and oxygen. In the manufacture of fuel cells, etc., it is necessary to control conditions according to the power generation status of each cell, so a connector is used to monitor the voltage of each cell.

[0005] Regarding this connector, Patent Document 1 describes an invention relating to a connector that does not require a frontage member on the mating side.

[0006] This connector has a mating opening defined by a U-shaped arm, and a locking member provided on the housing facing the side mating opening to prevent the mating member from coming loose.

[0007] The invention described in Patent Document 1 aims to reduce the cost of the mating device associated with the mating opening by eliminating the need to provide a mating opening in the mating device because the housing has a side mating opening as described above. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-176901 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the locking member for preventing dislodging is simply provided so as to bend with respect to the housing. Therefore, depending on the degree of insertion, even when the locking member is not locked (semi-fitted state), the separator and terminal may come into contact with each other, resulting in electrical continuity between the connector and the cell.

[0010] In such a case, the worker will have to monitor the voltage of each cell without being able to detect that the cells are not properly fitted, and if one cell suddenly falls out, this will cause disruption to the work.

[0011] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a half-fit detection structure for ensuring a correct fitted state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a fuel cell stack including a fuel cell connector and a fuel cell stack stack, the fuel cell connector including a fuel cell stack stack and a fuel cell stack ... the fitting assist member has a main body portion provided with a through hole through which the connector is inserted, the fall-out prevention mechanism includes a stack-side engaging portion provided on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole, and a connector-side engaging portion engageable with the stack-side engaging portion, The detection means includes a CPA member configured to be slidable along a connection direction of the connector to the stack, and a control mechanism that controls a sliding movement of the CPA member, the mated state transitions from a semi-fitted state in which the stack-side engaging portion and the connector-side engaging portion are not engaged with each other and the connector and the stack are electrically connected, to a fully mated state in which the stack-side engaging portion and the connector-side engaging portion are engaged with each other and the connector and the stack are electrically connected, as the connector slides in the connecting direction; the control mechanism includes a biasing member provided in the connector and extending along the connection direction, and a pressing portion provided on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole and configured to be able to press the biasing member against the biasing force of the biasing member, In the semi-engaged state, the biasing member is positioned in a sliding restriction position where it collides with the CPA member, and in the fully engaged state, it is pressed by the pressing portion to be positioned in a sliding allowable position where it does not collide with the CPA member.

[0013] According to the present invention, the sliding range of the CPA member is limited according to the form of the anti-disconnection mechanism, so that an operator can detect whether the CPA member is correctly engaged by operating the CPA member.

[0014] That is, when in the half-engaged state, the CPA member collides with the biasing member, and when in the fully-engaged state, the CPA member does not collide with the biasing member. Therefore, an operator can reliably determine (detect) whether the connector is in a fully mated state or a partially mated state by sliding the CPA member and checking whether or not it collides with the biasing member.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the detection means is provided on the connector and has a coupled portion that is coupled to the CPA member by sliding of the CPA member in the connection direction, When the biasing member is positioned in the sliding restriction position, the sliding range of the CPA member is limited to a range where it cannot be connected to the connected part, and when the biasing member is positioned in the sliding allowable position, the sliding range of the CPA member is allowed to a range where it can be connected to the connected part.

[0016] With this configuration, when in a semi-engaged state, the CPA member collides with the biasing member and does not reach the connected portion, and when in a fully engaged state, the CPA member does not collide with the biasing member and can be connected to the connected portion. Therefore, the worker can slide the CPA member and determine more reliably whether the connector is in a fully engaged or partially engaged state based on whether or not it can be connected to the connected portion.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the biasing member includes a leaf spring curved toward the connection direction, and includes a first spring portion and a second spring portion at least partially opposed to each other, the first spring portion is configured to transition from the sliding limiting position to the sliding allowing position by a deflection deformation when a tip side of the first spring portion is pressed by the pressing portion, The second spring portion supports the connector side engagement portion so as to be displaceable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connection direction.

[0018] With this configuration, the sliding range of the CPA member can be controlled by the biasing member, and the connector side engagement portion can be transitioned from a disengaged state to an engaged state by bending deformation, thereby simplifying the configuration.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fall-off prevention mechanism has a finger hook portion provided on a tip side of the second spring portion for displacing the connector side engagement portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connection direction.

[0020] With this configuration, an operator can easily release the engaged state and remove the connector from the stack by hooking his / her finger on the finger hook portion and bending and deforming the second spring portion.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the CPA member includes an intermediate portion that is interposed between the finger hook portion and a housing of the connector when the CPA member is connected to the connected portion and is disposed adjacent to the finger hook portion, The amount of deflection of the second spring portion until the finger hook portion abuts against the intermediate portion is configured to be smaller than the amount of deflection of the second spring portion until the engagement state of the connector side engagement portion is released.

[0022] With this configuration, even if an external force is suddenly applied to the finger hook portion in a direction that causes the second spring portion to flex and deform, the intervening portion interferes to suppress excessive flexural deformation, and the engagement state of the connector side engagement portion and the stack side engagement portion is maintained stably.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the detection means has a mounting portion for slidably mounting the CPA member to the connector, The mounting portion includes a protrusion provided on one of the CPA member or the housing of the connector, and an insertion hole provided on the other of the CPA member or the housing, through which the protrusion is inserted, The insertion hole is an elongated hole extending a predetermined length along the connection direction.

[0024] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the CPA member from being accidentally detached from the connector, while ensuring a stable sliding action. Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a half-fit detection structure for ensuring a correct fit state of a voltage measurement connector in a fuel cell. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a fitting assistance member according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a slip-out prevention mechanism and a detection unit according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of a half-fit detection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a perspective view showing a CPA member, and (b) is a perspective view showing a biasing member. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are diagrams showing the configuration of a half-fit detection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is an assembled perspective view, (b) is a cross-sectional view along line PP, and (c) is a cross-sectional view along line QQ. [Diagram 5] 1 is an overall perspective view for explaining a flow of mating a connector using a half-fitting detection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 5A to 5C are enlarged views for explaining a flow of mating a connector using the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 5A to 5C are enlarged views for explaining a flow of mating a connector using the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 5A to 5C are enlarged views for explaining a flow of mating a connector using the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 5A to 5C are enlarged views for explaining a flow of mating a connector using the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 11A and 11B are side views for explaining the effect of the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 11A and 11B are side views for explaining the effect of the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating a modified example of the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating a modified example of the half-fitting detection structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Hereinafter, a half-fit detection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. It should be noted that the embodiment described below is merely an example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. In these figures, the symbol X indicates the half-fit detection structure according to this embodiment, the symbol A indicates the fuel cell according to this embodiment, and the symbol B indicates the connector according to this embodiment.

[0028] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the x-axis direction in FIG. 1 etc. will be referred to as the front-rear direction, the y-axis direction as the stacking direction or left-right direction, and the z-axis direction as the height direction. Moreover, in the x-axis direction, the direction indicated by the arrow will be referred to as the connection direction.

[0029] <Configuration> The configuration of the half-fit detection structure X will be described below with reference to FIGS. Connector B (see FIG. 3, etc.) used to measure the voltage of each cell C (see FIG. 5, etc.) in fuel cell A has a resin housing B1 that houses terminals (not shown) that clamp each cell, and an electric wire B2 (see FIG. 6, etc.) extending from the rear surface of housing B1.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the incomplete fitting detection structure X includes a fitting assist member 1 attached to a fuel cell A. The incomplete fitting detection structure X includes a fitting assist member 1 attached to a fuel cell A. FIG. 1(a) shows a perspective view of the fitting assisting member 1 as viewed from the front side, and FIG. 1(b) shows a perspective view of the fitting assisting member 1 as viewed from the rear side.

[0031] The fitting assisting member 1 has a main body 11 provided with a through hole h through which the connector B is inserted, and mounting portions 12 provided on both ends of the main body 11. In addition, since the fitting assisting member 1 comes into contact with the stack S when attached to the fuel cell A, it is made of an insulating material such as a resin material.

[0032] The main body 11 is a generally plate-like body extending along the stacking direction, and is provided with a pair of walls w1, w2 that protrude forward from the upper and lower edges of the through hole h and extend along approximately the entire length of the upper and lower edges. The through hole h is a substantially rectangular hole that extends along the stacking direction and has a length substantially equal to the width of the stack S in the stacking direction.

[0033] Each mounting portion 12 is a plate-shaped body and is provided with a positioning hole T1 through which a positioning pin t1 (see Figure 5) provided in each end plate E described later is inserted, and a communication hole T2 that communicates with a penetration hole t2 (see Figure 5) provided in the end plate E.

[0034] In addition, the fitting auxiliary member 1 has a plurality of key protrusions q provided on the inner surface of the through hole h and extending along the front-to-rear direction, and a rail portion r provided on the inner surface of the through hole h opposite each key protrusion q and extending in the front-to-rear direction.

[0035] The key projections q are a pair of ridges j extending from the inner circumferential lower surface of the through hole h to the front end of the wall portion w1. Each key projection q is fitted into a corresponding key groove p (see FIG. 6) provided in the housing B1, thereby ensuring stable sliding in the connecting direction of the connector B together with the corresponding rail portion r.

[0036] Each rail portion r extends from the inner circumferential upper surface of the through hole h to the front end of the wall portion w2, and is a generally U-shaped component that opens downward when viewed from the front. The rail portions r are aligned at regular intervals in the stacking direction so as to correspond to the key projections q.

[0037] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the incomplete mating detection structure X includes a disconnection prevention mechanism 2 that prevents a connector B mated to a stack S from coming off, and a detection means 3 that detects the mating state of the connector B to the stack S. FIG. 2(a) is an exploded perspective view of the configuration of the pull-out prevention mechanism 2 and the configuration of the detection means 3 provided in the connector B, and FIG. 2(b) is an enlarged perspective view showing the inside of a through hole h. FIG. 3(a) is an enlarged perspective view showing a CPA member 31, which will be described later, and FIG. 3(b) is an enlarged perspective view showing a biasing member W, which will be described later.

[0038] The anti-slip mechanism 2 has a connector side engagement portion 21, a stack side engagement portion 22 provided on the inner surface of the through hole h and capable of engaging with the connector side engagement portion 21, an engagement portion forming body 23 in which the connector side engagement portion 21 is formed and which is attached to the second spring portion W2 described later, and a finger hook portion 24.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the connector side engaging portion 21 is a protrusion provided on the upper surface of the engaging portion forming body 23. Further, the upper surface of the connector side engaging portion 21 is provided with an inclined surface that gradually descends as it approaches the connection direction.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the stack side engagement portion 22 is a groove that is formed on the inner circumferential upper surface of each rail portion r and extends in the front-rear direction. In addition, a guide groove g is formed on the inner circumferential upper surface of each rail portion r, the guide groove g gradually inclining downward from the rear end portion toward the stack side engagement portion 22.

[0041] The engagement portion forming body 23 is a component that extends in the front-rear direction and has a generally U-shape that opens downward when viewed from the front, and is provided to cover the second spring portion W2 described later.

[0042] The finger hook portion 24 is formed at the rear end of the engagement portion forming body 23, and is a component for bending the second spring portion W2 by hooking an operator's finger thereon.

[0043] The detection means 3 includes a CPA member 31 configured to be slidable along the connection direction, a connected portion 32 (see Figure 9) provided on the connector B and connected to the CPA member 31 by sliding the CPA member 31 in the connection direction, an attachment portion 33 that slidably attaches the CPA member 31 to the connector B, and a control mechanism N that controls the sliding movement of the CPA member 31.

[0044] As shown particularly in FIG. 3(a), CPA member 31 includes a CPA member main body 31a provided with a pair of connecting protrusions J that connect to connected portion 32, an intermediate portion 31b, and a pair of support arms 31c.

[0045] The CPA member main body 31a is a generally L-shaped component in a side view, and has a block body b on its inner circumferential surface to which each of the connecting projections J and the intermediate portions 31b are connected.

[0046] The intermediate portion 31b projects from the block body b in the connection direction, and has on its left and right sides inclined surfaces that gradually descend in the connection direction.

[0047] Each of the support arms 31c is an elongated component that protrudes from both the left and right ends of the CPA member main body 31a in the connection direction.

[0048] The configuration of the coupled portion 32 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0049] The attachment portion 33 includes a projection 33a provided on the CPA member 31 and an insertion hole 33b provided on the housing B1, through which the projection 33a is inserted.

[0050] The protrusions 33a are small, roughly rectangular parallelepiped pieces provided on the side surfaces of the respective support arms 31c.

[0051] The insertion hole 33b is an elongated hole provided in a standing portion B1c (to be described later) of the housing B1 and extending a predetermined length along the connection direction.

[0052] The control mechanism N includes a biasing member W provided on the connector B and extending along the connection direction, and a pressing portion M provided on the inner surface of the through hole h and configured to be able to press the biasing member W against the biasing force.

[0053] As shown particularly in FIG. 3(b), the biasing member W is composed of a leaf spring curved toward the connection direction, and includes a first spring portion W1 and a second spring portion W2 facing each other, and a generally U-shaped connecting portion W3 connecting these.

[0054] The first spring portion W1 includes a first barbed portion W1a formed in an arrowhead shape, a second barbed portion W1b similarly formed in an arrowhead shape, and a lance portion W1c formed in a lance shape. The first barbed portion W1a and the second barbed portion W1b are formed to be convex in the left-right direction. The second barbed portion W1b is disposed rearward of the first barbed portion W1a. The lance portion W1c is formed to protrude downward. The first spring portion W1 is attached to the housing B1 using these configurations.

[0055] The first spring portion W1 has a tip end formed as a pair of elongated elastic contact pieces K on the left and right sides. In this embodiment, the first spring portion W1, except for the elastic contact pieces K, faces the second spring portion W2 in the up-down direction.

[0056] The second spring portion W2 includes a first barbed portion W2a formed in an arrowhead shape, a second barbed portion W2b similarly formed in an arrowhead shape, and a lance portion W2c formed in a lance shape. The first barbed portion W2a and the second barbed portion W2b are formed to be convex in the left-right direction. The second barbed portion W2b is disposed rearward of the first barbed portion W2a. The lance portion W2c is formed to protrude downward. The second spring portion W2 is attached to the engagement portion forming body 23 by utilizing these configurations.

[0057] Each elastic contact piece K is provided with a curved portion k that is curved upward in an arch shape, and the portion from the curved portion k to the tip side is configured to be gradually inclined upward as it approaches the tip.

[0058] In this embodiment, the pressing portions M are the left and right side walls constituting each rail portion r.

[0059] Figure 4(a) is an oblique view showing the state in which the biasing member W, the engagement portion forming body 23 (connector side engagement portion 21) and the CPA member 31 are attached to the connector B, Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line PP in (a), and Figure 4(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line QQ in (a).

[0060] Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the housing B1 and the engagement portion forming body 23 are provided with a structure for attaching the biasing member W.

[0061] More specifically, as shown in Figures 4(b) and (c), the housing B1 is provided with an arrowhead receiving portion B1a that receives the first arrowhead portion W1a and the second arrowhead portion W1b, and a lance receiving portion B1b that receives the lance portion W1c.

[0062] The arrowhead receiving portion B1a is formed in a generally square bracket shape with a width approximately the same as the left-right width of the second spring portion W2 (excluding each elastic contact piece K), and is provided on the upper surface of the housing B1, facing upward and extending in the front-to-rear direction. The lance receiving portion B1b is a stepped portion on the front side of a convex portion protruding from the upper surface of the housing B1.

[0063] The first barbed portion W1a is provided so as to extend along the barbed portion B1a, and the second barbed portion W1b is provided so as to be fitted into the barbed portion B1a. The lance portion W1c is provided so that its tip abuts against the lance receiving portion B1b.

[0064] The engagement portion forming body 23 is provided with an arrowhead receiving portion (not shown) for receiving the first arrowhead portion W2a and the second arrowhead portion W2b, and a lance receiving portion (not shown) for receiving the lance portion W2c.

[0065] In addition, the arrowhead receiving portion (not shown) and the lance receiving portion (not shown) in the engagement portion forming body 23 support the second spring portion W2 in a configuration substantially similar to the arrowhead receiving portion B1a and the lance receiving portion B1b in the housing B1, and therefore are not shown or described.

[0066] In addition, the housing B1 is provided with standing portions B1c standing upward from the left and right side edges thereof, and suspension portions B1d provided so as to be suspended from the standing portions B1c.

[0067] <How to use> Hereinafter, a method of using the half-fit detection structure X will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0068] First, the worker attaches the fitting assistance member 1 to the fuel cell A as shown in FIG.

[0069] More specifically, the worker inserts each positioning pin t1 into each positioning hole T1 and positions the front side surface of each mounting portion 12 adjacent to and facing the rear side surface of each end plate E. Then, the worker inserts and fastens each fastening member (bolt) v into each of the communicating penetration holes t2 and each of the communicating holes T2.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5 (b-1), each cell C has a substantially U-shaped first notch C1 and an elongated second notch C2 connected to the first notch C1 and extending in the connection direction of the connector B. As shown in Figure 5 (b-2), the stack S is provided with a groove portion G formed by connecting each of the first notches C1 along the stacking direction, and a slit portion Z formed by connecting each of the second notches C2 along the stacking direction, due to the configuration of each of the cells C.

[0071] As a result, when the above-mentioned mounting configuration is adopted, the walls w1 and w2 are inserted into the groove G so that the upper surface of the wall w1 is adjacent to and faces the upper inner surface of the groove G, and the lower surface of the wall w2 is adjacent to and faces the lower inner surface of the groove G. When connecting the connector B, the upper surface portion of the housing B1 is inserted into the slit portion Z, which extends to a guide portion (a portion formed on the front side of the housing B1) of a plurality of approximately plate-shaped bodies arranged in the left-right direction of the housing B1.

[0072] Next, the worker fits the connector B, which has been assembled as shown in FIG.

[0073] That is, the worker inserts the connector B into the through hole h (sliding it in the connection direction) as shown in FIG. 6 while fitting the key groove p into the key protrusion q. FIG. 6 shows a non-fitted state in which the connector B (terminal) and the stack S (cell C) are not electrically connected and the engagement portions 21, 22 are not engaged with each other. 6(b) to 8 are side views of the sectional perspective view of FIG. 6(a), showing the sliding action of connector B, and hatching of the cross section has been omitted in all views, including FIG. 6(a).

[0074] When the connector B slides further in the connecting direction from the state shown in FIG. 6, the engaging portions 21, 22 are disengaged, and the connector B and the stack S are electrically connected, resulting in a semi-fitted state, as shown in FIG. At this time, the inclined surface of the connector side engaging portion 21 comes into contact with the introduction groove g, so that the second spring portion W2 is flexibly deformed downward as the connector B slides in the connecting direction. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the connector-side engaging portion 21 abuts against a flat surface between the stack-side engaging portion 22 and the guide groove g.

[0075] In the semi-fitted state, the biasing member W is disposed in a sliding limiting position where it collides with the CPA member 31. That is, in the semi-fitted state, no external force is applied to each of the elastic contact pieces K, so that when the CPA member 31 is slid in the connection direction, the tip of each of the elastic contact pieces K abuts against the front surface of the intermediate portion 31b. As a result, the sliding range of the CPA member 31 is limited to a range in which each connecting protrusion J does not reach the connected portion 32.

[0076] By further sliding connector B in the connection direction from the state shown in FIG. 7, the respective engagement portions 21, 22 engage with each other, and connector B and stack S are brought into electrical continuity as shown in FIG. 8, resulting in a fully engaged state. At this time, the connector side engaging portion 21 (protrusion) enters into the stack side engaging portion 22 (groove), whereby the deflection deformation of the second spring portion W2 is released and the connector B is prevented from coming off.

[0077] In the fully fitted state, the biasing member W is pressed by the pressing portion M, and is thereby disposed in a sliding allowing position where it does not collide with the CPA member 31. That is, in the fully fitted state, the apex of the curved portion k of each of the elastic contact pieces K is pressed by the pressing portion M, so that the elastic contact pieces K are bent and deformed downward. This allows the tip side of each resilient contact piece K from the curved portion k to slip beneath the CPA member main body 31a, allowing the CPA member 31 to slide in the connection direction without colliding with the tip of each resilient contact piece K.

[0078] Finally, the worker connects the CPA member 31 and the connected portion 32 together. As shown in FIG. 9, the connected portion 32 is formed in the finger hook portion 24 and is a generally U-shaped groove that opens rearward.

[0079] That is, the worker couples the coupling protrusion J to the coupled portion 32 by sliding the CPA member 31 in the connection direction as shown in FIG. In detail, as shown in Figure 9(a), when the CPA member 31 slides toward the connected portion 32, the arms of each connecting protrusion J bend inward and deform, while the claws at the tip of each connecting protrusion J are pushed into and engaged with the connected portion 32, resulting in the state shown in Figure 9(b).

[0080] When pulling out the connector B from the stack S, the worker first flexes and deforms each connecting protrusion J, and slides the CPA member 31 backward, thereby releasing the connection between the CPA member 31 and the connected portion 32. Then, the worker places his / her finger on the finger hook portion 24 and bends and deforms the second spring portion W2 downward, thereby releasing the engagement state of the engagement portions 21, 22 and sliding the connector B backward.

[0081] <Effects> According to this embodiment, the sliding range of the CPA member 31 is changed by the arrangement of the biasing member W according to the fitted state. Therefore, the worker can slide the CPA member 31 and reliably determine whether the connector B is in a fully engaged state or a partially engaged state based on whether or not it can be connected to the connected portion 32.

[0082] In addition, the biasing member W can control the sliding range of the CPA member 31 and can transition the connector side engaging portion 21 from the disengaged state to the engaged state by bending deformation, thereby simplifying the configuration.

[0083] Furthermore, by using the finger hook portion 24, an operator can easily release the engaged state and remove the connector from the stack by hooking his / her finger on the finger hook portion 24 and bending and deforming the second spring portion W2.

[0084] Moreover, the attachment portion 33 can prevent the CPA member 31 from being accidentally detached from the connector B, while ensuring a stable sliding operation.

[0085] Moreover, the half-fit detection structure X in the state shown in FIG. 9(b) has the effects shown in FIGS.

[0086] That is, as shown in FIG. 10, when the CPA member main body 31a (each connecting protrusion J) is connected to the connected portion 32, the interposed portion 31b is interposed between the finger hook portion 24 and the housing B1 and is positioned adjacent to the finger hook portion 24. The amount of deflection of the second spring portion W2 until the finger hook portion 24 abuts against the intermediate portion 31b is configured to be smaller than the amount of deflection of the second spring portion W2 until the engagement state of the connector side engagement portion 21 is released.

[0087] As a result, when an operator places his or her finger on finger hook portion 24, and an external force F is applied which causes second spring portion W2 to bend downward, finger hook portion 24 abuts against intermediate portion 31b, preventing excessive sagging of second spring portion W2 and maintaining the engaged state of each engagement portion 21, 22. Therefore, the connector B is prevented from being pulled out of the stack S due to an unexpected external force F.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11(a), in the absence of the CPA member 31 (intervening portion 31b), pulling the connector B strongly may cause the second spring portion W2 to gradually drop, and the hooking allowance of each engagement portion 21, 22 may gradually decrease (the tensile strength may decrease). However, as shown in FIG. 11(b), even if the connector B is pulled, the intermediate portion 31b abuts against the finger hook portion 24, thereby preventing the second spring portion W2 from dropping and preventing a decrease in the tensile strength.

[0089] <Example of change> The shapes and dimensions of the components shown in the above-described embodiment are merely examples and can be modified in various ways based on design requirements, etc.

[0090] For example, the engagement portion forming body 23 is not necessarily required, and the connector side engagement portion 21 may be integrally configured with the biasing member W (second spring portion W2), and the finger hook portion 24 may also be integrally provided at the base end of the biasing member W (second spring portion W2).

[0091] Furthermore, the connected portion 32 (and the connecting protrusion J) is not necessarily required, and the mated state may be determined simply by whether or not the slid CPA member 31 collides with the biasing member W (the tip of the elastic contact piece K).

[0092] In addition, modifications such as those shown in Figs. 12 and 13 may be used. FIG. 12(a) is a perspective view of a biasing member W (hereinafter, referred to as a biasing member W') according to this modified example, and FIG. 12(b) is a perspective view of the connector B after assembly. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line RR, showing a process for detecting the fitted state using the biasing member W according to this modified example.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 12(a), the urging member W' has each elastic contact piece K of the urging member W rotated 90 degrees around an axis in the front-to-rear direction so that each curved portion k of the elastic contact piece K faces outward in the left-to-right direction. When the connector B is assembled including the thus configured biasing member W', the appearance is the same as that of the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12(b). However, as shown in FIG. 13, the relationship between the biasing member W' and the CPA member 31 differs from that of the above embodiment.

[0094] That is, as shown in FIG. 13, a pair of slits s extending in the front-rear direction are provided between each connecting projection J and the intermediate portion 31b of the CPA member 31, through which each elastic contact piece K can be inserted. By configuring the biasing member W' and the CPA member 31 in this way, the fitted state is detected in the manner shown in FIG.

[0095] First, as shown in (a-1) to (a-3), the worker inserts the connector B into the fitting assisting member 1 (through hole h).

[0096] At this time, each side surface portion of the rail portion r is inserted between each standing portion B1c and the arrowhead receiving portion B1a.

[0097] Here, in (a-3), the connector B is in a semi-fitted state, and the biasing member W is disposed in a sliding limiting position where it collides with the CPA member 31. In detail, in (a-3), each curved portion k does not enter the rail portion r, and the inner surface of the rail portion r does not press each elastic contact piece K (each curved portion k), so that each elastic contact piece K does not bend or deform. Therefore, even if the CPA member 31 is slid in this state, it will collide with the tips of the elastic contact pieces K, and the CPA member 31 will not be able to be connected to the connected portion 32.

[0098] Next, when the worker further inserts connector B in the connection direction, the state shown in (a-4) is reached.

[0099] Here, in (a-4), the connector B is in a fully fitted state, and the biasing member W is disposed in a sliding permitting position where it does not collide with the CPA member 31. More specifically, in (a-4), each curved portion k enters into the rail portion r, and the inner peripheral surface of the rail portion r presses each curved portion k, causing each elastic contact piece K to bend and deform. As a result, the tip sides of the elastic contact pieces K and the slits s of the CPA member 31 are aligned in the front-rear direction.

[0100] Therefore, when the operator slides the CPA member 31 in this state, as shown in (a-5), the tip side of each elastic contact piece K is inserted into each slit s, and the CPA member 31 slides without colliding with this tip side. Then, the worker connects the CPA member 31 to the connected portion 32, thereby determining that the CPA member 31 is in a fully engaged state.

[0101] In this manner, according to the above modification, the elastic contact pieces K are flexibly deformed on the inner peripheral surface of the rail portion r, so that the pressing portion M is not necessary. Furthermore, by using the same operational characteristics as in the above embodiment (whether or not the CPA member 31 and the connected portion 32 can be connected), the worker can reliably determine whether connector B is in a fully engaged state or a partially engaged state.

[0102] The word "approximately" used in the above explanation is a concept which means that the subsequent shape may be chamfered or rounded, and also includes elements constituting the shape that have been deformed or changed in length within a range that does not impair the purpose of the shape. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] X Semi-mating detection structure 1. Fitting support parts 11 Main body 12 Mounting part 2. Anti-disconnect mechanism 21 Connector side engagement portion 22 Stack side engagement portion 23 Engagement part forming body 24 Finger rest 3. Detection methods 31 CPA components 32 Connected part 33 Mounting part N Control Mechanism W biasing member W1 First spring part W2 Second spring part M Pressing part A fuel cell B Connector B1 Housing B2 electric wire S Stack C Cell

Claims

1. a fitting assisting member attached to a fuel cell; a disconnection prevention mechanism for preventing disconnection of a connector that is fitted to a stack of the fuel cells; and a detection means for detecting a state in which the connector is fitted to the stack, the fitting assist member has a main body portion provided with a through hole through which the connector is inserted, the fall-out prevention mechanism includes a stack-side engaging portion provided on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole, and a connector-side engaging portion engageable with the stack-side engaging portion, The detection means includes a CPA member configured to be slidable along a connection direction of the connector to the stack, and a control mechanism that controls a sliding movement of the CPA member, the mated state transitions from a semi-fitted state in which the stack-side engaging portion and the connector-side engaging portion are not engaged with each other and the connector and the stack are electrically connected, to a fully mated state in which the stack-side engaging portion and the connector-side engaging portion are engaged with each other and the connector and the stack are electrically connected, as the connector slides in the connecting direction; the control mechanism includes a biasing member provided in the connector and extending along the connection direction, and a pressing portion provided on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole and configured to be able to press the biasing member against the biasing force of the biasing member, In the semi-fitted state, the biasing member is disposed at a sliding limiting position where it collides with the CPA member, and in the fully fitted state, the biasing member is pressed by the pressing portion to be disposed at a sliding allowing position where it does not collide with the CPA member. Half-fit detection structure.

2. the detection means is provided on the connector and has a coupled portion that is coupled to the CPA member by sliding of the CPA member in the connection direction, When the biasing member is disposed at the sliding limiting position, the sliding range of the CPA member is limited to a range in which the CPA member cannot be connected to the connected portion, and when the biasing member is disposed at the sliding allowing position, the sliding range of the CPA member is allowed to a range in which the CPA member can be connected to the connected portion. The half-fit detection structure according to claim 1 .

3. the biasing member is configured by a leaf spring curved toward the connection direction, and includes a first spring portion and a second spring portion at least partially facing each other, the first spring portion is configured to transition from the sliding limiting position to the sliding allowing position by being pressed by the pressing portion at an end portion opposite to a portion curved toward the connection direction, the second spring portion supports the connector side engagement portion so as to be displaceable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connection direction; The half-fit detection structure according to claim 2 .

4. the fall-off prevention mechanism has a finger hook portion provided on a tip side of the second spring portion for displacing the connector side engagement portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the connection direction; The half-fit detection structure according to claim 3 .

5. the CPA member includes an interposition portion that is interposed between the finger hook portion and a housing of the connector in a state where the CPA member is connected to the connected portion and that is disposed adjacent to the finger hook portion, The amount of deflection of the second spring portion until the finger hook portion abuts against the intermediate portion is smaller than the amount of deflection of the second spring portion until the engagement state of the connector side engagement portion is released. The half-fit detection structure according to claim 4 .

6. The detection means has a mounting portion for slidably mounting the CPA member to the connector, The mounting portion includes a protrusion provided on one of the CPA member or the housing of the connector, and an insertion hole provided on the other of the CPA member or the housing, through which the protrusion is inserted, The insertion hole is an elongated hole extending a predetermined length along the connection direction. The half-fit detection structure according to claim 1 .

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