Charging connector

Abstract

To provide a charging connector that comprises a switch which is not switched to a release state even if an operation part is operated in a lock state, and is maintained in the release state until the connector is completely fitted.SOLUTION: A charging connector 10 comprises a latch 26, an interlocking part 32, a switch mechanism 40, and a temporary maintenance mechanism 50. The latch 26 is movable between an engagement position and a release position via a predetermined position. The switch mechanism 40 has a pressed part 45. The switch mechanism 40 is at its initial position when the latch 26 is at the engagement position. The temporary maintenance mechanism 50 temporarily maintains the switch mechanism 40 at its initial position when the latch 26 is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position. When the latch 26 is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking part 32 presses the pressed part 45 of the switch mechanism 40 to move the switch mechanism 40 from its initial position against the temporary maintenance mechanism 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a charging connector. [Background technology]

[0002] This type of connector is disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1.

[0003] 16, Patent Document 1 discloses a connector 90 that can be mated with a mating connector 98. When mated with the mating connector 98, the connector 90 supplies power to the mating connector 98. In other words, the connector 90 is a charging connector.

[0004] The connector 90 includes a lock lever 91, a switch 93, and a pressing portion (operating portion) 95. The lock lever 91 has an engaging portion (latch) 92. The switch 93 has a driving portion 94. The operating portion 95 can operate a release portion 96. The lock lever 91 is supported by a shaft, which allows the latch 92 to move up and down.

[0005] In the mating intermediate state (the state shown in FIG. 16) in which the connector 90 is mated with the mating connector 98, the latch 92 moves downward. On the other hand, in the mated state (not shown), the latch 92 moves upward. The latch 92 that has moved upward engages with a locking engagement portion (mating latch) 99 of the mating connector 98 and is locked. At this time, power is supplied to the mating connector 98. After charging is completed, the operating portion 95 When this button is operated, the release portion 96 pushes the lock lever 91 from below, and the latch 92 moves downward. As a result, the latch 92 is unlocked.

[0006] When the latch 92 is moved downward, the lock lever 91 presses the actuator 94 of the switch 93 downward, causing the switch 93 to assume a released state indicating that the lock is released. On the other hand, when the latch 92 is moved upward, the actuator 94 is not pressurized, causing the switch 93 to assume a state other than the released state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-099254 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] As described above, according to Patent Document 1, the state of the switch is changed in response to the operation of the operating unit. However, there is a demand for a charging connector that satisfies the following two requirements. Requirement 1 is that the switch does not change to the released state even if the operating unit is operated when the latch is in a locked state. Requirement 2 is that the switch is maintained in the released state until the connectors are completely mated.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a charging connector equipped with a switch that does not switch to an unlocked state even when the operating part is operated in a locked state, and that maintains the unlocked state until the connectors are completely mated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Normally, when the latch is engaged, the locking part restricts the movement of the locking lever, locking the latch. However, taking tolerances into consideration, the locking lever has some play when in the locked state. Requirement 1 requires that the switch state not change within the range of this play. Therefore, to satisfy Requirement 1, the switch must be located in a location where the movement of the locking lever in response to operation of the operating part is small (for example, near the rotation axis of the locking lever).

[0011] On the other hand, to satisfy requirement 2, the switch must continue to maintain the released state unless the latch engages with the mating latch. In other words, the switch must continue to maintain the released state even if the latch moves slightly up or down. Therefore, to satisfy requirement 2, the switch must be located in a location where the movement of the lock lever is large (for example, a location away from the rotation axis of the lock lever).

[0012] As can be seen from the above explanation, commonly used small switches cannot satisfy both requirements 1 and 2.

[0013] Therefore, the inventor of the present invention considered satisfying requirements 1 and 2 with a new mechanism. More specifically, the connector is provided with a switch mechanism, a temporary retention mechanism, and an interlocking part. The temporary retention mechanism temporarily retains the switch mechanism in its initial position. The interlocking part controls the position of the switch mechanism in conjunction with the movement of the lock lever. More specifically, the temporary retention mechanism positions the switch mechanism in its initial position even if the latch moves within the range of play of the lock lever. Meanwhile, the interlocking part moves the switch mechanism against the temporary retention mechanism when the latch moves beyond the range of play of the lock lever. Requirements 1 and 2 are satisfied by the functions of the switch mechanism, temporary retention mechanism, and interlocking part described above. More specifically, the present invention provides the following charging connector.

[0014] The present invention provides a first charging connector, A charging connector including a connector body, a lock lever, an operation unit, an interlocking unit, a switch mechanism, and a temporary retention mechanism, The lock lever is incorporated into the connector body, The lock lever has a latch, the latch is movable in the vertical direction between an engaged position and a released position via a predetermined position in response to an operation of the operating portion, the interlocking portion moves in the up and down direction in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch, the switch mechanism is incorporated into the connector body so as to be movable in the up and down direction, the switch mechanism is in an initial position when the latch is in the engaged position; The switch mechanism includes a switch body and a pressure-receiving portion, the switch body is in an initial state when the switch mechanism is in the initial position; When the latch is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position, the temporary holding mechanism temporarily holds the switch mechanism at the initial position; When the latch is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking portion presses the pressure-receiving portion of the switch mechanism to move the switch mechanism from the initial position against the temporary retention mechanism, thereby switching the state of the switch main body from the initial state to the release state. A charging connector is provided.

[0015] The present invention provides a first charging connector as a second charging connector, The charging connector includes a subassembly, the sub-assembly includes the lock lever, the operating portion, the interlocking portion, the switch mechanism, and the temporary holding mechanism; The subassembly is assembled into the connector body. A charging connector is provided.

[0016] The present invention provides a third charging connector, which is the second charging connector, the temporary retention mechanism is a helical spring, One of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the switch mechanism, and the other of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the lock lever. A charging connector is provided.

[0017] The present invention provides a fourth charging connector, which is the second or third charging connector, The switch mechanism includes a switch plate; The switch body is supported by the switch plate, The switch plate is rotatably attached to the lock lever. A charging connector is provided.

[0018] The present invention provides a fifth charging connector, which is any one of the first to fourth charging connectors, The lock lever includes a lever body and a reinforcing member, The interlocking portion is a part of the reinforcing member. A charging connector is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] The temporary retention mechanism of the present invention temporarily maintains the switch mechanism in an initial position where the switch body is in its initial state when the latch is located between the engaged position and a predetermined position, i.e., when the latch is located near the engaged position. Therefore, when the latch is locked, even if the lock lever moves within its play range in response to operation of the operating part, the switch body is maintained in its initial state. In other words, requirement 1 is met. Furthermore, when the latch is located between the predetermined position and the released position, i.e., when the latch is away from the engaged position beyond the predetermined position, the interlocking part moves the switch mechanism from its initial position, thereby switching the state of the switch body to the released state. Therefore, the switch body is maintained in the released state until the connectors are fully mated and the latch is located between the engaged position and the predetermined position. In other words, requirement 2 is met.

[0020] As described above, according to the present invention, a charging connector can be provided that is equipped with a switch that does not switch to an unlocked state even when the operating unit is operated in a locked state, and that remains in the unlocked state until the connectors are completely mated. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a side view showing the connector of FIG. 1, with part of the outline of the inlet drawn with a dashed line. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the connector of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the inner assembly of the connector of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a subassembly of the inner assembly of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the subassembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the subassembly of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side view showing the switch mechanism of the subassembly of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the switch mechanism of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a side view showing a reinforcing member of the subassembly of FIG. 8. [Figure 12] A cross-sectional view of the internal assembly of the connector of Figure 3. The connector is in a separated state away from the inlet, and the latch is in the engaged position. Only the upper end of the charging unit is shown. A portion of the outline of the inlet is shown in dashed lines. The outline of the latch in the released position is shown in dashed lines. [Figure 13] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the inner assembly of the connector of FIG. 12, showing the connector in a partially mated state, in the middle of mating with the inlet, with the latch in the released position. [Figure 14] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the inner assembly of FIG. 12, showing the connector in mated condition with the inlet, and the latch in the engaged position. [Figure 15] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the internal assembly of FIG. 12. The connector is in a fully mated state with the inlet fully mated. The operating portion is operated and the latch is in a predetermined position. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a side view partially showing the charging connector of Patent Document 1 together with a mating connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, a charging connector 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a connector that supplies power from a power supply system (not shown) such as an EV (Electric Vehicle) station to a counterpart device (not shown) such as a power storage device mounted on an electric vehicle.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 2 , the charging connector 10 is connected to a power supply system (not shown) via a cable 70. An inlet 80 is incorporated in a mating device (not shown). The charging connector 10 can be mated with the inlet 80 along the front-to-rear direction. The front-to-rear direction in this embodiment is the X direction. In this embodiment, the "front" is the +X direction, and the "rear" is the -X direction. In a mated state in which the charging connector 10 and the inlet 80 are mated with each other (the state in FIG. 2 ), power from the power supply system is supplied to the mating device via the cable 70, the charging connector 10, and the inlet 80.

[0024] The charging connector 10 of this embodiment will be described below.

[0025] 1 and 3, the charging connector 10 of this embodiment includes a front cover 12 made primarily of an insulating material, two side covers 13 made primarily of an insulating material, a charging unit 15, a subassembly 19, and a metallic rotating shaft 68. The front cover 12, the side covers 13, and the charging unit 15 are combined with each other to form a connector main body 11. That is, the charging connector 10 includes the connector main body 11, the subassembly 19, and the rotating shaft 68. The connector main body 11 includes the front cover 12, the side covers 13, and the charging unit 15.

[0026] The charging unit 15 is a component that performs the charging function of the charging connector 10, and is connected to the cable 70. The subassembly 19 is a component that controls charging. The rotation shaft 68 is a component for attaching the subassembly 19 to the charging unit 15. The rotation shaft 68 is a cylindrical pin that extends straight in the lateral direction. The subassembly 19 and the charging unit 15 are combined with each other by the rotation shaft 68, and form the internal assembly 14. The front cover 12 and the side cover 13 cover and protect the internal assembly 14.

[0027] More specifically, the inner assembly 14 is housed inside the charging connector 10 and attached to the side covers 13 so as to be sandwiched between the two side covers 13 in a lateral direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction. The lateral direction in this embodiment is the Y direction. The front cover 12 covers the inner assembly 14 attached to the side covers 13 from the front.

[0028] The charging unit 15 of this embodiment includes two terminals 16 made of a conductor. Each of the terminals 16 is connected to a core wire (not shown) of the cable 70 and is capable of receiving power from a power supply system (not shown). Referring to FIG. 4, the charging unit 15 has two side walls 17. Each of the side walls 17 is located at the upper end of the charging unit 15 in the up-down direction perpendicular to both the front-rear direction and the lateral direction. The up-down direction in this embodiment is the Z direction. In this embodiment, "up" is the +Z direction and "down" is the -Z direction. The two side walls 17 are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction and extend parallel to each other along a vertical plane (XZ plane) perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0029] A press-fit hole 178 is formed in each of the side walls 17. Each of the press-fit holes 178 is a circular hole that passes through the side wall 17 in the horizontal direction. Each of the press-fit holes 178 has a size that allows the rotation shaft 68 to be press-fitted therein. The two press-fit holes 178 are located at the same position as each other on the XZ plane.

[0030] The charging unit 15 has a receiving portion 18. That is, the connector body 11 is equipped with the receiving portion 18. The receiving portion 18 is located at the lower end of the side wall 17 in the up-down direction and between the two side walls 17 in the lateral direction. As will be described later, the receiving portion 18 is a portion for partially receiving the lower end of the subassembly 19. With reference to Figures 4 and 12, the receiving portion 18 in this embodiment is a plane extending along a horizontal plane (XY plane) perpendicular to the up-down direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the shape of the receiving portion 18 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the receiving portion 18 may be part of a member other than the charging unit 15.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 4 , the subassembly 19 has a central hole 66. The central hole 66 is a circular hole that penetrates the subassembly 19 in the horizontal direction. The central hole 66 has a size that allows the rotation shaft 68 to be inserted therein with little friction. Referring to FIG. 3 in conjunction with FIG. 4 , the subassembly 19 is attached to the charging unit 15 such that the central hole 66 is positioned between two press-fit holes 178 of the charging unit 15 in the horizontal direction. Specifically, the rotation shaft 68 is press-fit into the two press-fit holes 178 while passing through the central hole 66. The subassembly 19 attached in this manner is movable relative to the charging unit 15. More specifically, the subassembly 19 is capable of seesaw motion around the rotation shaft 68. For example, when the rear end of the subassembly 19 is pushed downward, the front end of the subassembly 19 moves upward.

[0032] 3, the internal assembly 14 assembled as described above is covered by the front cover 12 and side cover 13 of the connector body 11 as described above. The charging unit 15 of the internal assembly 14 is fixed so as not to move relative to the front cover 12 and the side cover 13. Meanwhile, the subassembly 19 of the internal assembly 14 is attached to the connector body 11 including the charging unit 15 so as to be able to move in a seesaw manner.

[0033] 1, the terminals 16 of the charging unit 15 extend through the front cover 12 in the front-to-rear direction. Referring to FIG. 2 together with FIG. 1, each of the terminals 16 connects with a mating terminal (not shown) of the inlet 80 in a mated state, thereby enabling power to be supplied to a mating device (not shown).

[0034] Referring to Fig. 3, the charging connector 10 of this embodiment has the structure described above. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the structure of the charging connector 10 can be modified in various ways as needed. For example, the charging connector 10 may include other members in addition to the connector main body 11, the subassembly 19, and the rotating shaft 68. The connector main body 11 may include other members in addition to the front cover 12, the side cover 13, and the charging unit 15. The structure of the charging unit 15 is not particularly limited.

[0035] Subassembly 19 may be attached to charging unit 15 by a member other than rotation shaft 68, as long as the front end can move up and down. Subassembly 19 may also be attached directly to side cover 13. Subassembly 19 may also be supported by a member such as a spring (not shown) so that the front end does not move up and down unless an external force is applied.

[0036] The subassembly 19 of this embodiment will be described in more detail below. The structure of the subassembly 19 is not limited to this embodiment or the modified examples described below, but can be further modified in various ways as described below.

[0037] 5 to 8, subassembly 19 of the present embodiment includes lock lever 20, switch mechanism 40, temporary retention mechanism (helical spring) 50, metal screw 62, and metal shaft 64. That is, charging connector 10 of the present embodiment includes lock lever 20, switch mechanism 40, temporary retention mechanism 50, screw 62, and shaft 64. Subassembly 19 of the present embodiment includes only the above-described members, however, the present invention is not limited to this, and subassembly 19 may include other members in addition to the above-described members.

[0038] 5 together with FIG. 3, the subassembly 19 is attached to the charging unit 15 of the connector body 11 as described above, and is thereby assembled into the connector body 11. That is, the lock lever 20, the switch mechanism 40, the temporary retention mechanism 50, the screw 62, and the shaft 64 are each assembled into the connector body 11.

[0039] 5 to 8, the lock lever 20 of this embodiment includes a lever body 22 made of an insulating material such as resin, and a metal reinforcing member 30. The lever body 22 extends in the front-to-rear direction. A press-fit groove 23 is formed in the lever body 22. The press-fit groove 23 is formed in the lower part of the lever body 22 and extends in the front-to-rear direction between the front and rear ends of the lever body 22. The reinforcing member 30 is a single metal plate having a constant size in the lateral direction. The reinforcing member 30 has substantially the same size as the press-fit groove 23 in the front-to-rear direction. The reinforcing member 30 is press-fitted into the press-fit groove 23 from below. According to this embodiment, the lever body 22 can be reinforced by the reinforcing member 30.

[0040] The lock lever 20 of the present embodiment has an operating portion 24, a latch 26, and an interlocking portion 32. That is, the subassembly 19 includes the operating portion 24, the latch 26, and the interlocking portion 32. The charging connector 10 also has the operating portion 24, the latch 26, and the interlocking portion 32.

[0041] The operating part 24 is located at the rear end of the lever body 22 and protrudes upward. In this embodiment, the operating part 24 is part of the lever body 22 of the lock lever 20. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operating part 24 may be a separate member from the lock lever 20.

[0042] The latch 26 is located at the front end of the lock lever 20. In this embodiment, the latch 26 protrudes downward. In other words, the latch 26 faces downward. The front end of the latch 26 has an arc shape. The rear end of the latch 26 is an inclined surface that slopes rearward. The latch 26 in this embodiment is formed from the front end of the lever body 22 and the front end of the reinforcing member 30, and has high strength. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the latch 26 may be formed only from the front end of the lever body 22. Furthermore, as will be described later, the latch 26 may face upward.

[0043] 7 and 11, the interlocking portion 32 in this embodiment is a part of the reinforcing member 30. That is, the reinforcing member 30 has the interlocking portion 32. More specifically, the lower end of the reinforcing member 30 partially juts downward and then extends forward. The interlocking portion 32 in this embodiment is the upper end surface of this forward-extending portion.

[0044] 9 and 10, the switch mechanism 40 of this embodiment includes a switch body 42 and a metal switch plate 46. The switch body 42 has a flat plate shape parallel to the XZ plane. The switch plate 46 is a single metal plate that has a certain size in the lateral direction and is curved.

[0045] 10 together with FIG. 6, a screw hole 422 is formed in the switch body 42. The screw hole 422 penetrates the switch body 42 in the horizontal direction. The switch body 42 has a positioning protrusion 44. The positioning protrusion 44 is provided on one of both horizontal surfaces of the switch body 42 and protrudes outward in the horizontal direction. A screw hole 462 and a positioning hole 464 are formed in the switch plate 46. The screw hole 462 and the positioning hole 464 each penetrate the switch plate 46 in the horizontal direction. The positions of the screw hole 462 and the positioning hole 464 in the XZ plane coincide with the positions of the screw hole 422 and the positioning protrusion 44, respectively, in the XZ plane.

[0046] The switch body 42 and the switch plate 46 are assembled together as follows. First, the positioning projections 44 are inserted into the positioning holes 464 to position the switch body 42 and the switch plate 46 relative to each other. Next, the screws 62 are threaded into the screw holes 422 through the screw holes 462. As a result, the switch body 42 and the switch plate 46 are assembled and fixed together. The switch body 42 of this embodiment is fixed to and supported by the switch plate 46 as described above.

[0047] 7 and 9, the switch body 42 of the present embodiment has a pressure-receiving portion 45 and a button 43. That is, the switch mechanism 40 includes the pressure-receiving portion 45 and the button 43. Also, The charging connector 10 includes a pressure-receiving portion 45 and a button 43 .

[0048] The pressure-receiving portion 45 is provided on one of the two lateral surfaces of the switch body 42 opposite the surface on which the positioning protrusion 44 (see FIG. 6) is provided, and protrudes outward in the lateral direction. The position of the pressure-receiving portion 45 in the XZ plane coincides with the position of the positioning protrusion 44 in the XZ plane. As can be seen from this structure, the switch plate 46 of this embodiment can be attached to either one of the two lateral surfaces of the switch body 42.

[0049] The button 43 in this embodiment is a push button. The switch body 42 takes two different states depending on whether the button 43 is pressed or not. The switch mechanism 40 in this embodiment includes the switch body 42, the switch plate 46, and two signal wires 49. One of both ends of each signal wire 49 is connected to the switch body 42, and the other of both ends (not shown) is connected to a power supply system (not shown). The signal wires 49 transmit the state of the switch body 42 to the power supply system.

[0050] A method for assembling the sub-assembly 19 of this embodiment and a method for incorporating it into the connector body 11 will now be described.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 6, two shaft holes 28 are formed in the lever body 22 of this embodiment. Each of the shaft holes 28 is a circular hole that penetrates a portion of the lever body 22 in the horizontal direction. The two shaft holes 28 are located at the same position in the XZ plane and are spaced apart in the horizontal direction. A shaft hole 38 is formed in the reinforcing member 30 of this embodiment. The shaft hole 38 is a circular hole that penetrates the reinforcing member 30 in the horizontal direction. Referring to FIG. 5 together with FIG. 6, when the reinforcing member 30 is attached to the lever body 22, the shaft hole 38 is located between the two shaft holes 28 in the horizontal direction. Each of the shaft holes 28 and 38 arranged in this manner has a size that allows the shaft 64 to be press-fitted therein.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 6, a shaft hole 48 is formed in the switch plate 46 of this embodiment. The shaft hole 48 is a circular hole that penetrates the switch plate 46 in the horizontal direction. The shaft hole 48 has a size that allows the shaft 64 to be inserted therein with almost no friction. Referring to FIG. 5 together with FIG. 6, the shaft 64 passes through the shaft hole 48 and is press-fitted into the shaft hole 28 of the lever body 22 and the shaft hole 38 of the reinforcing member 30. In other words, the shaft 64 is fixed to the lock lever 20. Meanwhile, the shaft 64 is formed with the above-mentioned center hole 66. Referring to FIG. 4, the rotation shaft 68 is inserted into the center hole 66 as described above. Referring to FIG. 12, the switch mechanism 40 is positioned directly above the receiving portion 18.

[0053] 3, with the above-described structure, the lock lever 20 is rotatable around the rotation axis 68. Referring to FIG. 5 in conjunction with FIG. 3, the shaft 64 is not fixed to the switch plate 46 of the switch mechanism 40. Therefore, the switch mechanism 40 is rotatable relative to the lock lever 20 around the shaft 64 (i.e., around the rotation axis 68). In other words, the lock lever 20 and the switch mechanism 40 of this embodiment are rotatable independently of each other around the same axis.

[0054] As described above, the switch plate 46 of this embodiment is rotatably attached to the lock lever 20. The subassembly 19 of this embodiment can be easily assembled using the shaft 64 while the switch body 42 is reinforced by the switch plate 46. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a shaft hole (not shown) may be provided in the switch body 42 without providing the switch plate 46. Also, the switch mechanism 40 can be rotated relative to the lock lever 20 by a member other than the shaft 64. Possible The center of rotation of the lock lever 20 and the center of rotation of the switch mechanism 40 may be different from each other.

[0055] 6 and 11, the reinforcing member 30 of this embodiment has an attachment portion 34. The attachment portion 34 is a part of the reinforcing member 30. The attachment portion 34 protrudes downward from the lower end surface of the reinforcing member 30. With reference to FIGS. 6 and 9, the switch plate 46 of this embodiment has an attachment portion 47. The attachment portion 47 is a part of the switch plate 46. The attachment portion 47 extends laterally from the lower end surface of the switch plate 46 and then protrudes upward.

[0056] 6, the temporary retaining mechanism 50 of this embodiment is a helical spring having opposite ends 52 and 54. The end 52 is located at the upper end of the helical spring 50, and the end 54 is located at the lower end of the helical spring 50. One of the opposite ends 52 and 54 of the helical spring 50 (end 54) is attached to the switch mechanism 40. The other of the opposite ends 52 and 54 of the helical spring 50 (end 52) is attached to the lock lever 20. More specifically, in this embodiment, the end 52 is attached to the attachment portion 34 of the reinforcing member 30, and the end 54 is attached to the attachment portion 47 of the switch plate 46. The helical spring 50 attached in this manner can apply a downward force to the switch plate 46.

[0057] 5, as described above, the lock lever 20 and the switch mechanism 40 of this embodiment are combined with each other using only one shaft 64 and one helical spring 50, thereby forming one subassembly 19. Referring to FIG. 4, the subassembly 19 and the charging unit 15 are combined with each other using only one rotating shaft 68, thereby forming the internal assembly 14.

[0058] 3 and 4, the charging connector 10 of this embodiment can be easily manufactured by simply attaching a single inner assembly 14, which is assembled from multiple members, to the side cover 13. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the subassembly 19 may be supported by the side cover 13 using the rotation shaft 68 without being combined with the charging unit 15.

[0059] 6, button 43 of switch mechanism 40 of this embodiment is susceptible to damage when a force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of button 43 (the up-and-down direction in FIG. 6). The assembly method of this embodiment makes it possible to prevent the application of a force that would damage button 43 during the assembly process. Furthermore, because the position of switch mechanism 40 is determined when internal assembly 14 is assembled, the position of switch mechanism 40 can be adjusted with high precision when assembling internal assembly 14.

[0060] As described above, according to the assembly method of the present embodiment, the charging connector 10 can be easily assembled while reducing tolerances. In particular, the lock lever 20 and the switch mechanism 40 of the present embodiment are combined with each other using the helical spring 50 in addition to the shaft 64. The combined lock lever 20 and switch mechanism 40 are incorporated into the connector main body 11 (see FIG. 3) such that the compressed helical spring 50 presses the switch mechanism 40 against the receiving portion 18 (see FIG. 12).

[0061] It is not easy to properly attach the helical spring 50 while assembling the lock lever 20 and the switch mechanism 40 one by one into the connector body 11 (see FIG. 3 ). According to the present embodiment, even if a member that is difficult to attach, such as the helical spring 50, is used, the charging connector 10 can be easily assembled. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, each of the members included in the subassembly 19 may be assembled into the connector body 11 one by one. In this case, the upper end 52 of the helical spring 50 may be attached to the connector body 11.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 6, the switch body 42 of this embodiment is attached to the lock lever 20 via a switch plate 46. The switch plate 46 is formed from a metal plate, which is easy to process and attach to the lock lever 20. For example, the mounting portion 47 can be easily formed by processing the switch plate 46. According to this embodiment, the subassembly 19 can be assembled more easily without increasing the number of parts. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the mounting portion 47 may be a separate member from the switch plate 46. Furthermore, the switch plate 46 may be provided as needed.

[0063] As described above, the lever body 22 in this embodiment is reinforced by the reinforcing member 30. The reinforcing member 30 is formed from a metal plate and is easy to process. For example, the interlocking portion 32 and the attachment portion 34 can be easily formed by processing the reinforcing member 30. According to this embodiment, the lever body 22 (especially the latch 26, which is easily subjected to force) can be reinforced while various portions can be provided without increasing the number of parts. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the interlocking portion 32 and the attachment portion 34 may each be a separate member from the reinforcing member 30. Furthermore, the reinforcing member 30 may be provided as needed.

[0064] The charging connector 10 assembled as described above can be mated with an inlet 80 (see FIG. 12) as described below.

[0065] 1 and 2, when the internal assembly 14 is housed inside the charging connector 10, the latch 26 of the lock lever 20 protrudes forward from the front cover 12, and the operating portion 24 protrudes upward from the side cover 13. The latch 26 arranged as described above can be inserted into the inlet 80. Furthermore, the operating portion 24 arranged as described above can be operated by an operator.

[0066] 12, when the charging connector 10 is in a separated state (the state in FIG. 12) away from the inlet 80, the latch 26 of the lock lever 20 is in an engaged position (see the solid line in FIG. 12). For example, the latch 26 is temporarily maintained in the engaged position by its own weight or a mechanism (not shown) such as a spring. On the other hand, when the operating unit 24 is pressed downward, the lock lever 20 rotates about the rotation shaft 68, and the latch 26 moves upward (see the dashed line in FIG. 12).

[0067] 13 , when the charging connector 10 is mated with the inlet 80, the charging connector 10 is moved forward toward the inlet 80. As the charging connector 10 is moved forward, the arc-shaped front end of the latch 26 abuts against the inlet 80 and receives an upward force from the inlet 80. As a result, the latch 26 moves upward and is inserted into the inlet 80. The state of the charging connector 10 at this time is called an intermediate mating state (semi-mated state) in which the charging connector 10 is not completely mated with the inlet 80. When the charging connector 10 is in the intermediate mating state, the latch 26 is in the released position shown in the figure.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 14, the inlet 80 has a recess that is recessed downward. A mating latch 82 is provided in the recess. The mating latch 82 is a plane that is parallel to a predetermined plane (the YZ plane). When the charging connector 10 is moved forward, the latch 26 reaches the recess of the inlet 80 and moves downward. The downward-moving latch 26 is positioned at an engagement position and engages with the mating latch 82. At this time, the charging connector 10 is in a mated state.

[0069] When the mated charging connector 10 is pulled rearward, the inclined surface at the rear end of the latch 26 is pressed against the mating latch 82. In other words, the engagement between the latch 26 and the mating latch 82 is not released even when the charging connector 10 is pulled rearward. The mated charging connector 10 can be removed from the inlet 80 as follows.

[0070] 14 together with FIG. 13, first, the operating portion 24 is pushed downward to move the latch 26 upward. Next, when the charging connector 10 is pulled rearward, the charging connector 10 returns to the half-mated state. Referring to FIG. 13 together with FIG. 12, when the charging connector 10 is pulled further rearward, the charging connector 10 returns to the separated state.

[0071] The switch mechanism 40 of this embodiment will now be described.

[0072] 12 and 13, as described above, the latch 26 moves between an engaged position (position in FIG. 12) and a released position (position in FIG. 13) in response to operation of the charging connector 10. Referring to FIGS. 12 and 14, when the latch 26 is in the engaged position, the temporary holding mechanism 50 presses the switch mechanism 40 downward. As a result, the switch mechanism 40 is partially pressed against the receiving portion 18. The position of the switch mechanism 40 at this time is referred to as the initial position. When the switch mechanism 40 is in the initial position, the pressure-receiving portion 45 of the switch mechanism 40 is separated from the interlocking portion 32 of the lock lever 20 and positioned above the interlocking portion 32.

[0073] 12, 13, and 15, when the latch 26 moves from the engaged position to the released position, the interlocking portion 32 of the lock lever 20 moves upward and abuts against the pressure-receiving portion 45 of the switch mechanism 40. The position of the latch 26 at this time is called a predetermined position. The predetermined position is the position shown in FIG. 15, and is a position between the engaged position and the released position. In other words, the latch 26 can move vertically between the engaged position and the released position via the predetermined position in response to the operation of the operating portion 24.

[0074] The interlocking portion 32 moves up and down in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch 26. In this embodiment, the interlocking portion 32 moves upward when the latch 26 moves upward, and moves downward when the latch 26 moves downward. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As will be described later, the interlocking portion 32 may move downward when the latch 26 moves upward, or may move upward when the latch 26 moves downward.

[0075] When the latch 26 moves upward beyond a predetermined position, the interlocking portion 32 pushes the pressure-receiving portion 45 upward. As a result, the switch mechanism 40 moves upward away from the initial position. That is, the switch mechanism 40 is incorporated into the connector body 11 (see FIG. 3) so as to be movable in the vertical direction. When the latch 26 is in the engaged position, the switch mechanism 40 is in the initial position. On the other hand, when the latch 26 is in the released position, the position of the switch mechanism 40 ( Figure 13 The position of the switch mechanism 40 is called the variable position. Release position When the position is , it is in a variable position.

[0076] 12 together with FIG. 5, when the switch mechanism 40 is in the initial position, the button 43 of the switch body 42 is pressed against the receiving portion 18 and depressed. This state of the switch body 42 is called the initial state. That is, the switch body 42 is in the initial state when the switch mechanism 40 is in the initial position. On the other hand, referring to FIG. 13, when the switch mechanism 40 is in the variable position, the button 43 is not pressed against the receiving portion 18 even if it is in contact with the receiving portion 18. That is, the button 43 is not depressed. This state of the switch body 42 is called the released state. That is, the switch body 42 is in the released state when the switch mechanism 40 is in the variable position.

[0077] 12, 13, and 15, the switch body 42 of this embodiment is in the initial state when the latch 26 is between the engaged position (position in FIG. 12) and the predetermined position (position in FIG. 15), and is in the released state when the latch 26 is between the predetermined position and the released position (position in FIG. 13). On the other hand, a normal switch body 42 is in the initial state even when the button 43 is pressed to a certain extent. That is, the switch body 42 may be switched to the released state when the latch 26 moves beyond the predetermined position to a certain extent and approaches the released position.

[0078] 12 to 14, as described above, the state of the switch main body 42 is transmitted to the power supply system (not shown) via the signal line 49. The power supply system determines whether the charging connector 10 is in a state where charging is possible using a method based on a predetermined standard. For example, the power supply system supplies power to the charging connector 10 when the switch main body 42 is in the initial state and the charging connector 10 is in the mated state. The power supply system does not supply power to the charging connector 10 unless the charging conditions described above are met.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 15 , when a power supply system (not shown) supplies power to the inlet 80 via the charging connector 10, a high-voltage current flows between the terminal 16 (see FIG. 1 ) of the charging connector 10 and the mating terminal (not shown) of the inlet 80. The charging connector 10 and the inlet 80 have a locking mechanism to prevent electric shock due to such high-voltage current. More specifically, when charging begins, the inlet 80 of the present embodiment positions a locking portion 84 above the latch 26 to restrict upward movement of the latch 26. As a result, the latch 26 is locked, and the charging connector 10 cannot be removed from the inlet 80. On the other hand, when charging of the mating device (not shown) is completed, the locking portion 84 is released. As a result, the latch 26 is unlocked, and the charging connector 10 can be removed from the inlet 80.

[0080] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the state of the switch main body 42 is switched in response to the operation of the operating unit 24. Meanwhile, there is a need for a charging connector 10 that satisfies the following two requirements. Requirement 1 is that the switch main body 42 does not switch to the released state even if the operating unit 24 is operated when the latch 26 is in a locked state. Requirement 2 is that the switch main body 42 is maintained in the released state until the charging connector 10 is completely mated.

[0081] 15, normally, when the latch 26 is engaged, the lock portion 84 restricts the movement of the lock lever 20, locking the latch 26. However, taking tolerances into consideration, the lock lever 20 has some play when in the locked state. Requirement 1 requires that the state of the switch main body 42 does not change within the range of this play. Therefore, to satisfy Requirement 1, the switch main body 42 needs to be located in a location where the movement of the lock lever 20 in response to operation of the operating portion 24 is small (for example, near the rotation axis 68 of the lock lever 20).

[0082] On the other hand, to satisfy requirement 2, the switch body 42 must continue to maintain the released state unless the latch 26 engages with the mating latch 82. In other words, the switch body 42 must continue to maintain the released state even if the latch 26 moves slightly up or down. Therefore, to satisfy requirement 2, the switch body 42 must be placed in a location where the movement of the lock lever 20 is large (for example, a location away from the rotation axis 68 of the lock lever 20).

[0083] As can be seen from the above explanation, commonly used small switches cannot satisfy both requirements 1 and 2.

[0084] 14 and 15, the temporary maintaining mechanism 50 of this embodiment temporarily maintains the switch mechanism 40 in the initial position where the switch body 42 is in the initial state when the latch 26 is positioned between the engaged position (the position in FIG. 14) and the predetermined position (the position in FIG. 15), i.e., when the latch 26 is positioned near the engaged position. Therefore, when the latch 26 is locked, even if the lock lever 20 moves within the range of play in response to operation of the operating part 24, the switch body 42 is maintained in the initial state. In other words, requirement 1 is met.

[0085] 13 and 15, when the latch 26 is located between the predetermined position (the position in FIG. 15) and the released position (the position in FIG. 13), i.e., when the latch 26 is away from the engaged position by more than the predetermined position, the interlocking portion 32 applies pressure to the pressurized portion 45 of the switch mechanism 40, moving the switch mechanism 40 from the initial position against the temporary maintaining mechanism 50, thereby switching the state of the switch main body 42 from the initial state to the released state. Therefore, the switch main body 42 is maintained in the released state until the charging connector 10 is completely mated and the latch 26 is located between the engaged position and the predetermined position. In other words, requirement 2 is met.

[0086] To summarize the above explanation, according to the present embodiment, the movement range of latch 26 includes a range in which only latch 26 moves and a range in which switch mechanism 40 moves in response to the movement of latch 26. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide charging connector 10 including switch body 42 that does not switch to the released state even when operating unit 24 is operated in the locked state, and that remains in the released state until charging connector 10 is completely mated.

[0087] In addition to the various modifications already described, this embodiment can be further modified in various ways, some of which will be described below.

[0088] With reference to FIG. 12 , the latch 26 in this embodiment faces downward. When the operating portion 24 is pressed downward, the latch 26 moves upward. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, with reference to FIG. 12 together with FIG. 16 , the latch 26 may face upward. In this case, the operating portion 24 may be a member separate from the lock lever 20. On the other hand, the operating portion 24 may be part of the lever body 22 and be located between the rotation shaft 68 and the latch 26 in the front-rear direction. In other words, when the operating portion 24 is pressed downward, the latch 26 may move downward.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 12, the switch mechanism 40 in this embodiment is located below the lock lever 20. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the latch 26 faces upward, the switch mechanism 40 may be located above the lock lever 20. In this case, the receiving portion 18 may be part of the side cover 13 (see FIG. 3) and may be located above the switch mechanism 40. The temporary holding mechanism 50 may press the button 43 (see FIG. 13) of the switch mechanism 40 in the initial position against the receiving portion 18 above. When the latch 26 moves downward, the interlocking portion 32 may press the pressure-receiving portion 45 down.

[0090] In this embodiment, the rotation shaft 68 is located near the rear end of the switch mechanism 40. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the latch 26 faces downward and the switch mechanism 40 is located above the lock lever 20, the rotation shaft 68 may be located near the front end of the switch mechanism 40. In this case, the temporary retention mechanism 50 may be located near the rotation shaft 68, and the interlocking portion 32 and the pressure-receiving portion 45 may be located behind the temporary retention mechanism 50. In this case, the receiving portion 18 may also be part of the side cover 13 (see FIG. 3 ), and may be located above the switch mechanism 40.

[0091] The switch main body 42 of this embodiment assumes the initial state when the button 43 (see FIG. 13 ) is pressed against the receiving portion 18, and assumes the released state when the button 43 is separated from the receiving portion 18 to a certain extent. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the switch mechanism 40 is located below the lock lever 20 and the rotation shaft 68 is located near the front end of the switch mechanism 40, when the latch 26 moves upward, the interlocking portion 32 may move downward and press down the pressure-receiving portion 45. In other words, the switch main body 42 may assume the initial state when the button 43 is separated from the receiving portion 18 to a certain extent, or may assume the released state when the button 43 is pressed against the receiving portion 18.

[0092] In the present embodiment, switch main body 42 assumes an ON state (initial state) in which internal contacts (not shown) are conductive with each other when button 43 (see FIG. 13 ) is pressed against receiving portion 18, and assumes an OFF state (released state) in which the internal contacts are separated from each other when button 43 is separated to a certain extent from receiving portion 18. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, switch main body 42 may assume an OFF state (initial state) when button 43 is pressed against receiving portion 18, or may assume an ON state (released state) when button 43 is separated to a certain extent from receiving portion 18.

[0093] The temporary retention mechanism 50 is not limited to a helical spring. For example, the temporary retention mechanism 50 may be another spring such as a torsion coil. Furthermore, the temporary retention mechanism 50 is not limited to a spring. For example, a weight may be attached to the front end of the switch plate 46 to function as the temporary retention mechanism 50.

[0094] The temporary retention mechanism 50 may be formed as described below. First, a dome-shaped convex portion (protrusion) is provided on the side cover 13 (see FIG. 3). Then, a recess (receiving portion), a groove, and a wall portion are formed in the switch mechanism 40. The groove portion is located below the receiving portion. The wall portion is located between the receiving portion and the groove. When the switch mechanism 40 is in the initial position, the protrusion portion is received in the receiving portion. When the interlocking portion 32 presses the pressure-receiving portion 45 upward as the lock lever 20 moves, the switch mechanism 40 moves upward from the initial position, and the protrusion portion overcomes the wall portion and is received in the groove portion. With this structure, the protrusion portion, receiving portion, groove portion, and wall portion described above function as the temporary retention mechanism 50.

[0095] As can be understood from the above description, the structure of the subassembly 19 can be modified in various ways depending on the combination of conditions such as the orientation of the latch 26, the arrangement of the switch mechanism 40, and the position of the rotation shaft 68. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 10 Charging connector 11 Connector body 12 Front cover 13 Side cover 14 Internal assembly 15 Charging Unit 16 terminals 17 Side wall 178 Press-fit hole 18 Receiving Department 19 Sub-assembly 20 Lock lever 22 Lever body 23 Press-fit groove 24 Control section 26 Latch 28 Shaft hole 30 Reinforcement member 32 Interlocking part 34 Mounting part 38 Shaft hole 40 Switch mechanism 42 Switch body 422 screw hole 43 Button 44 Positioning protrusion 45 Pressurized part 46 Switch Plate 462 screw hole 464 Positioning hole 47 Mounting part 48 shaft hole 49 Signal Line 50 Temporary retention mechanism (helical spring) 52,54 End 62 Screw 64 Shaft 66 Center hole 68 Rotational Axis 70 Cable 80 Inlet 82 Counterpart latch 84 Lock Section

Claims

1. A charging connector including a connector body, a lock lever, an operation unit, an interlocking unit, a switch mechanism, and a temporary retention mechanism, The lock lever is incorporated into the connector body, The lock lever has a latch, the latch is movable in the vertical direction between an engaged position and a released position via a predetermined position in response to an operation of the operating portion, the interlocking portion moves in the up and down direction in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch, the switch mechanism is incorporated into the connector body so as to be movable in the up and down direction, the switch mechanism is in an initial position when the latch is in the engaged position; the switch mechanism includes a switch body, a pressure-receiving portion, and a signal line connected to the switch body; the switch body is in an initial state when the switch mechanism is in the initial position; When the latch is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position, the temporary holding mechanism temporarily holds the switch mechanism at the initial position; When the latch is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking portion presses the pressure-receiving portion of the switch mechanism to move the switch mechanism from the initial position against the temporary retention mechanism, thereby switching the state of the switch main body from the initial state to a release state, The lock lever includes a lever body and a reinforcing member, The interlocking portion is a part of the reinforcing member. Charging connector.

2. 2. The charging connector according to claim 1, The charging connector includes a subassembly, the sub-assembly includes the lock lever, the operating portion, the interlocking portion, the switch mechanism, and the temporary holding mechanism; The subassembly is assembled into the connector body. Charging connector.

3. 3. The charging connector according to claim 2, the temporary retention mechanism is a helical spring, One of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the switch mechanism, and the other of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the lock lever. Charging connector.

4. The charging connector according to claim 2 or 3, The switch mechanism includes a switch plate; The switch body is supported by the switch plate, The switch plate is rotatably attached to the lock lever. Charging connector.

5. A charging connector including a connector body, a lock lever, an operation unit, an interlocking unit, a switch mechanism, and a temporary retention mechanism, The lock lever is incorporated into the connector body, The lock lever has a latch, the latch is movable in the vertical direction between an engaged position and a released position via a predetermined position in response to an operation of the operating portion, the interlocking portion moves in the up and down direction in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch, the switch mechanism is incorporated into the connector body so as to be movable in the up and down direction, the switch mechanism is in an initial position when the latch is in the engaged position; The switch mechanism includes a switch body and a pressure-receiving portion, the switch body is in an initial state when the switch mechanism is in the initial position; When the latch is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position, the temporary holding mechanism temporarily holds the switch mechanism at the initial position; When the latch is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking portion presses the pressure-receiving portion of the switch mechanism to move the switch mechanism from the initial position against the temporary retention mechanism, thereby switching the state of the switch main body from the initial state to a release state, The charging connector includes a subassembly, the sub-assembly includes the lock lever, the operating portion, the interlocking portion, the switch mechanism, and the temporary holding mechanism; The subassembly is incorporated into the connector body, the temporary retention mechanism is a helical spring, One of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the switch mechanism, and the other of the ends of the helical spring is attached to the lock lever. Charging connector.

6. A charging connector including a connector body, a lock lever, an operation unit, an interlocking unit, a switch mechanism, and a temporary retention mechanism, The lock lever is incorporated into the connector body, The lock lever has a latch, the latch is movable in the vertical direction between an engaged position and a released position via a predetermined position in response to an operation of the operating portion, the interlocking portion moves in the up and down direction in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch, the switch mechanism is incorporated into the connector body so as to be movable in the up and down direction, the switch mechanism is in an initial position when the latch is in the engaged position; The switch mechanism includes a switch body and a pressure-receiving portion, the switch body is in an initial state when the switch mechanism is in the initial position; When the latch is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position, the temporary holding mechanism temporarily holds the switch mechanism at the initial position; When the latch is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking portion presses the pressure-receiving portion of the switch mechanism to move the switch mechanism from the initial position against the temporary retention mechanism, thereby switching the state of the switch main body from the initial state to a release state, The charging connector includes a subassembly, the sub-assembly includes the lock lever, the operating portion, the interlocking portion, the switch mechanism, and the temporary holding mechanism; The subassembly is incorporated into the connector body, The switch mechanism includes a switch plate; The switch body is supported by the switch plate, The switch plate is rotatably attached to the lock lever. Charging connector.

7. A charging connector including a connector body, a lock lever, an operation unit, an interlocking unit, a switch mechanism, and a temporary retention mechanism, The lock lever is incorporated into the connector body, The lock lever has a latch, the latch is movable in the vertical direction between an engaged position and a released position via a predetermined position in response to an operation of the operating portion, the interlocking portion moves in the up and down direction in conjunction with the up and down movement of the latch, the switch mechanism is incorporated into the connector body so as to be movable in the up and down direction, the switch mechanism is in an initial position when the latch is in the engaged position; The switch mechanism includes a switch body and a pressure-receiving portion, the switch body is in an initial state when the switch mechanism is in the initial position; When the latch is located between the engagement position and the predetermined position, the temporary holding mechanism temporarily holds the switch mechanism at the initial position; When the latch is located between the predetermined position and the release position, the interlocking portion presses the pressure-receiving portion of the switch mechanism to move the switch mechanism from the initial position against the temporary retention mechanism, thereby switching the state of the switch main body from the initial state to a release state, The lock lever includes a lever body and a reinforcing member, The interlocking portion is a part of the reinforcing member. Charging connector.

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