terminals

Abstract

Provided is a terminal having a mating portion. In the terminal of the present disclosure, the mating portion has a contact portion and a protection portion, and the contact portion is a part including a point of contact with another terminal accommodated in the mating portion. The protection portion is provided in an opening portion of the mating portion, and the contact portion and the protection portion are positioned facing one another. At least one of the contact portion and the protection portion has a leg portion that is branched into at least two parts.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to terminals used for electrical connections. More specifically, this disclosure relates to terminals having mating portions for coupling with other terminals (more specifically, for example, receptacle terminals). [Background technology]

[0002] As an example of a terminal having a mating portion, Patent Document 1 discloses a receptacle terminal that utilizes a contact spring. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2013-508935 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] The inventors of this application realized that conventional receptacle terminals with mating portions still have problems that need to be overcome, and recognized the need to take countermeasures. Specifically, the inventors of this application identified the following problems.

[0005] For example, the receptacle terminal disclosed in Patent Document 1 is equipped with a protective member (specifically a protective flap 56) at the opening of the mating portion to protect other terminals such as contact springs (specifically contact beams 50) and pins (specifically male pins 65) from damage (see Figure 6 of Patent Document 1).

[0006] However, it has been found that with such conventional configurations, if other terminals are accidentally inserted at an angle, the other terminals and contact springs cannot be adequately or desiredly protected. For example, it has been found that undesirable insertion of other terminals at an angle can damage the contact springs and other terminals, and the plating or plating layer provided to impart conductivity to these components may be scraped or reduced.

[0007] More specifically, in a conventional terminal 100 (showing only the mating portion) as shown in Figure 15, for example, a contact portion 102 is provided at one end of a metal plate-shaped elastic member 101. The other end of the elastic member 101 is fixed within the mating portion. The end of the elastic member 101 with the contact portion 102 can be moved or displaced as a free end. Such a contact portion 102 can come into contact with other terminals to form an electrical contact point. In the illustrated embodiment, a protective portion 103 having a simple vertical wall-like structure (i.e., a vertical wall structure extending only in the transverse direction of the terminal) is provided at the opening as a protective member (see Figures 15(D) and 15(F)).

[0008] Here, Figure 15(A) is a top view of the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100. Figure 15(B) is a side view of one side of the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100. Figure 15(C) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of the terminal 100 shown in Figure 15(B) along Y-Y'. Figure 15(D) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of the terminal 100 shown in Figure 15(A) along X-X'. Figure 15(E) is a perspective view of the mating portion of the terminal 100 from the side of the rear end portion 104 opposite to the opening. Note that a portion or part for attaching an electric wire may be optionally provided on the rear end portion 104 (bottom and side portions, etc.) of the mating portion shown in Figure 15(E). Figure 15(F) is a perspective view of the mating portion of the terminal 100 from the side of the opening (front side of the terminal).

[0009] For example, another terminal 105, such as a metal plate, can be inserted into the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100 (see Figures 16 and 17). During such insertion, the protective portion 103 can guide the other terminal 105 into the interior of the mating portion, particularly the contact portion 102. This can reduce improper contact (for example, contact known as "bumping" or "interference") between the tip portion 106 of the other terminal 105 and the contact portion 102 of the elastic member 101. In this case, the protective portion 103 can protect the contact portion 102 from damage. Thus, in a state where the other terminal 105 is inserted into the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100 (mated state), as shown in Figure 17(D), the lower surface of the terminal 105 and the contact portion 102 can come into physical and electrical contact to form a contact point 102p. At this time, the tip 102t of the contact portion 102 located at the free end of the elastic member 101 is pushed down lower than the tip 103t of the protective portion 103. This allows the contact portion 102 to elastically press against the other terminal 105 from below.

[0010] A plating layer is provided on terminal 100. More specifically, a plating layer is provided on the surface of terminal 100. In particular, the contact portion 102 and the other terminals 105 may be provided with a plating layer from the viewpoint of providing conductivity and / or corrosion resistance.

[0011] For example, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, if the conventional terminal 100 and the other terminal 105 move horizontally relative to each other (i.e., along the axial direction of the terminals) and connect, damage to the plating layers of the conventional terminal 100 and the other terminal 105 can be reduced.

[0012] However, in manufacturing sites or production lines such as factories, terminals may not be handled in the desired manner. For example, terminals may be handled roughly. For instance, as shown in Figures 18 and 19, it must be anticipated that another terminal 105 may be inserted into the mating portion of the previous terminal 100 from an undesirable oblique direction (see Figure 18(B)). In other words, it must be anticipated that the terminal may be inserted at an angle to its axial direction.

[0013] For example, as shown in Figure 19(D), when another terminal 105 is inserted into the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100 from an oblique direction, it was found that the tip 106 of the other terminal 105 and the tip 102t of the contact portion 102 collide, causing damage to the plating layers provided on both the other terminal 105 and the contact portion 102, resulting in wear or reduction. In particular, it was found that the plating layer on the contact portion 102 of the elastic member 101, especially the portion that can form an electrical contact point or contact, particularly the contact point 102p (see Figure 17(D)), is damaged, worn, or reduced.

[0014] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19(D), it was found that when another terminal 105 is inserted into the mating portion of the conventional terminal 100 from an oblique direction, the other terminal 105 and the protective portion 103 come into undesirable physical contact, causing the plating layer on the other terminal 105 to be damaged, worn away, or reduced. In particular, it was found that the plating layer in the portion that forms an electrical contact point with the contact portion 102 is damaged, worn away, or reduced (see, for example, the portion that may correspond to the contact point 102p in Figure 17(D)).

[0015] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19(D), when another terminal 105 is inserted into the mating portion of the previous terminal 100 from an oblique direction, the tip 106 of the other terminal 105 may get stuck under the contact portion 102, particularly the tip 102t of the contact portion 102 (not shown). In such cases, the two terminals (100, 105) cannot be properly connected to each other, requiring repeated operations. It was found that even in such cases, the plating layers on the two terminals (100, 105) can be damaged, worn away, or reduced.

[0016] Our research has revealed for the first time that the plating layer can be damaged, scraped, or reduced by insertion in an oblique direction. When the plating layer is damaged, scraped, or reduced, the resistance value of the terminal may fluctuate, potentially leading to concerns about instability in the terminal's resistance value.

[0017] Furthermore, it has been found that this problem of the plating layer being scraped or worn away is more likely to occur when connecting computers such as ECUs in vehicles, although this is just one example. This is because some workers may handle the terminals roughly. Also, since vehicle ECUs are attached and detached relatively infrequently, they have poor durability and the plating layer tends to be easily scraped away.

[0018] This disclosure has been made in view of the aforementioned issues. Specifically, the primary purpose of this disclosure is to provide a terminal that can further suppress or reduce the abrasion of the plating layer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] The inventors of this application attempted to solve the above-mentioned problems not by simply extending the existing technology, but by taking a new approach. As a result, they arrived at the invention of a terminal having a mating portion that achieves the above-mentioned main objective.

[0020] The inventors of the present invention first considered forming two or more branched parts or portions (hereinafter also referred to as "legs") on at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion of a terminal having a mating portion (such legs may also be referred to as "claws" or "finger parts" depending on their shape).

[0021] As a result of diligent research, the inventors of the present invention have found that by providing two or more branched legs on at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion, for example as shown in Figures 1-2 and 8-9, the impact force and / or pressure that may occur when contacting other terminals can be more successfully distributed and reduced, even when other terminals are inserted into the mating portion at an angle, and other terminals can be more successfully and smoothly introduced into the mating portion (see Figures 5 and 12). In other words, by providing two or more branched legs on at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion, when other terminals are inserted into the mating portion, especially when they are inserted at an undesirable angle, the force can be distributed so that pressure does not concentrate on and / or become excessive in the contact portion and / or protective portion (see Figures 5(D) and 12(D)).

[0022] Therefore, it has been found that when the contact portion and / or the protection portion of the terminal includes legs branched into two or more, shaving of the plating layer due to contact with other terminals can be further suppressed or reduced.

[0023] In the present disclosure, a terminal having a fitting portion is provided. In the terminal, the fitting portion has a contact portion and a protection portion. The contact portion is a portion including a contact point with another terminal that can be accommodated in the fitting portion, the protection portion is provided at an opening (or an open end) of the fitting portion, the contact portion and the protection portion are positioned so as to face each other, and at least one of the contact portion and the protection portion has legs branched into two or more. Hereinafter, the above terminal may also be referred to as "the terminal of the present disclosure" or simply "the terminal".

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] In the present disclosure, a terminal capable of further suppressing or reducing shaving of the plating layer can be provided. Note that the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limited, and there may be additional effects.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a fitting portion of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (First Embodiment). [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view exemplarily showing the relationship between a contact portion and a protection portion in a fitting portion of a terminal according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic top view schematically showing the relationship (modified example) between a contact portion and a protection portion in a fitting portion of a terminal according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram schematically showing "oblique insertion" of another terminal into a fitting portion of a terminal according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure (before insertion). [Figure 5]Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the "oblique insertion" of one terminal into the mating portion of the terminal according to the first embodiment of this disclosure (during insertion). [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the insertion of another terminal into the mating portion of a terminal according to the first embodiment of this disclosure (before insertion). [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which another terminal is inserted into the mating portion of a terminal according to the first embodiment of this disclosure and coupled to one another (mating state). [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the mating portion of a terminal according to another embodiment of the present disclosure (second embodiment). [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic top view illustrating the relationship between the contact portion and the protective portion in the mating portion of a terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic top view illustrating the relationship (modified example) between the contact portion and the protective portion in the mating portion of a terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the "oblique insertion" of one terminal into the mating portion of another terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure (before insertion). [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the "oblique insertion" of one terminal into the mating portion of another terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure (during insertion). [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the insertion of another terminal into the mating portion of a terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure (before insertion). [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which another terminal is inserted into the mating portion of a terminal according to the second embodiment of this disclosure and coupled to one another (mating state). [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the mating portion of a conventional terminal (conventional configuration). [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the insertion of another terminal into the mating portion of the previous terminal (before insertion). [Figure 17]Figure 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating the state in which another terminal is inserted into the mating portion of the previous terminal and connected to it (mating state). [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the "diagonal insertion" of one terminal into the mating portion of the previous terminal (before insertion). [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating the "diagonal insertion" of one terminal into the mating portion of the previous terminal (during insertion). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The terminals of this disclosure are terminals for electrical connection. In particular, this disclosure relates to terminals having a mating portion for providing an electrical connection (hereinafter, the terminals of this disclosure may be referred to as "receptacle terminals" or "female terminals"). In the terminals of this disclosure, the mating portion comprises at least a contact portion and a protective portion (see Figures 1 and 8).

[0027] In this disclosure, “terminal” means a component or member that, together with other terminals, contributes to an electrical connection.

[0028] In this disclosure, “mating portion” means a portion or part that can receive and accommodate at least a part of another terminal. The terminals of this disclosure and other terminals only need to engage or combine with each other, and do not necessarily need to be in a strictly fitted manner that is completely or tightly mated. In short, the mating portion can be said to be any portion or part of a terminal that is used for engaging or combining with another terminal. The mating portion is provided with a contact portion that can physically and / or electrically contact with the other terminal to form a contact point or contact.

[0029] The shape of the mating portion is not particularly limited as long as it can accommodate at least a portion of the other terminals. For example, it may be box-shaped or cylindrical. When the shape of the mating portion is box-shaped, such a mating portion is sometimes referred to as a "box."

[0030] In this disclosure, “contact area” means a portion or part comprising a contact point that may be formed by physical and / or electrical contact with another terminal that can be accommodated in the mating portion. In other words, “contact area” corresponds to a terminal portion or terminal part comprising a portion or part that contributes to a contact point (or, in other words, a “direct contact” or “electrical contact”) between the terminal of this disclosure and the other terminal when the terminal of this disclosure is combined with the other terminal.

[0031] The contact portion may be provided at one end or near the end of the metal member used for the terminal. In this respect, the contact portion may be included in the metal member provided for the terminal (for example, a plate-shaped and / or elongated metal member).

[0032] In one preferred embodiment, the contact portion may be provided at one end of, for example, a metal elastic member (e.g., a plate-shaped and / or elongated metal member). The other end of the elastic member or its periphery may be fixed within the fitting portion. In other words, the terminal of the present disclosure may have a contact portion at one end corresponding to the free end of a metal member (e.g., an elongated metal member or a metal plate-shaped member, or in one preferred embodiment, a metal member or metal plate-shaped member extending in the longitudinal direction of the terminal), with the other end of the metal member being a fixed end. One end of such a metal member, i.e., the end of the elastic member having the contact portion, can be moved or displaced as a free end. Therefore, the contact portion can physically contact (e.g., directly contact) another terminal and elastically press against the other terminal, contributing to the formation of an electrical contact point (see Figures 7 and 14).

[0033] In this disclosure, the free end portion of an elastic member provided with a contact point may also be referred to as the contact portion as a whole or comprehensively.

[0034] There are no particular restrictions on the shape of the elastic member. For example, the elastic member may be entirely plate-shaped. When the elastic member is entirely plate-shaped, it can move or be displaced like a spring. In other words, such a member may be provided as a leaf spring. For example, it may be provided as a leaf spring with the end closer to the opening or the end further forward being a free end, and the end further distal to the opening or the end further rear being a fixed end, and a contact portion may be provided at the free end of the leaf spring. An elastic member having a contact portion as a leaf spring may have a long form that extends along the longitudinal direction of the terminal. Such a plate-shaped elastic member is sometimes called a "leaf".

[0035] To adjust the elastic force and / or pressing force, additional plate-shaped elastic members may be placed below or behind the plate-shaped elastic member having a contact point (not shown). In such cases, the plate-shaped elastic member having a contact point can be called the "main leaf" or "main leaf spring," and the additional elastic member can be called the "assist leaf" or "assist leaf spring." The shape of the assist leaf (spring) is not particularly limited as long as it can press against the main leaf (spring).

[0036] The contact portion is a terminal portion that contributes to contact or contact with other terminals. In other words, the contact portion has a contact point with other terminals (see, for example, contact point 2p in Figure 7(D) and contact point 22p in Figure 14(D)). The portion having such a contact point may be convexly raised. The contact point may correspond to a curved or displaced portion in the contact portion (in particular, a portion that forms a curved or displaced shape when viewed in cross-section). For example, in a cross-sectional view taken to show the thickness of the contact portion, the elastic member may have a locally curved shape (a shape that curves further upward) in the portion having the contact point. It can also be said that the elastic member has a shape that is displaced or curved in a convex or raised manner further upward (or in a direction that crosses the opening) at the contact point. More specifically, such a portion may be convexly raised so as to have a shape such as a roughly V-shape, a roughly U-shape, or a roughly L-shape in a cross-sectional view in the direction in which the thickness of the contact portion is known (see Figures 1(D), 8(D), and 15(D)).

[0037] The portion having the above-mentioned contact point (for example, a curved or displaced portion) may be formed by applying an external force to a metal member provided as an elastic member. For example, it may be formed by cutting and pressing a metal plate material.

[0038] In this disclosure, “protective portion” refers to a portion or part that may be provided on or around the opening of the mating portion of the terminal of this disclosure (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “protector”) (see Figures 1(G) and 8(G)). The protective portion may be provided by bending or folding back a part of the terminal portion forming the opening toward the rear of the terminal, as will be described later. The protective portion may be provided at the open end (especially the inside) of the terminal housing (a terminal member that forms a housing having an elastic member inside). Such a protective portion is at least a portion of the terminal that contributes to protecting the contact portion. Preferably, the protective portion in this disclosure protects the contact portion and can guide other terminals toward the contact portion. The protective portion can reduce adverse effects on the contact portion from physical collision ("bump" or "interference") between the contact portion and other terminals due to excessive force or excessive speed, for example.

[0039] The protective portion is not particularly limited in shape, as long as it can be provided at or around the opening. Preferably, the protective portion is provided at the open end of the terminal so as to reduce or obstruct a portion of the opening area formed by the open end, and may extend from the terminal housing (a terminal member that forms a housing with an elastic member inside). For example, the protective portion may be located in close proximity to the opening or around the mating portion, for example, the contact portion. In other words, the protective portion may be provided at the open end (the opening of the terminal housing-like member) where the opening of the terminal is provided. More specifically, the protective portion may have a form that extends from the opening / opening end of the mating portion, and may be particularly curved in a raised manner and extend toward the rear of the terminal. More specifically, the protective portion may be bent backward and extend from a part of the terminal portion forming an opening, i.e., a part of the opening end, for example, the bottom of the opening end of the terminal (for example, the part that forms the opening end in the terminal housing) to form a raised portion (see Figures 1(G) and 8(G)).

[0040] The protective portion may be formed, for example, by cutting and bending a metal plate-like material, and / or folding it. In one preferred embodiment, the protective portion is formed by cutting and folding or bending a metal plate-like material (see Figures 1(H) and 8(H)). For example, the protective portion may have a form in which a member forming the terminal housing is partially bent (preferably bent to fold back). In particular, the member forming the terminal housing may have a form in which a part of it is bent back at the opening or open end (preferably bent and folded back towards the rear side of the terminal). As shown in Figures 3 and 11, the protective portion may have a form in which a part of the housing is bent at the opening or open end (preferably bent to fold back) such that the outer surface of the part forming the terminal housing becomes the protective surface.

[0041] In this disclosure, the term "opening" in a mating portion refers to a portion or part of the mating portion that receives another terminal, and there are no particular restrictions on its shape. In a terminal, the opening portion or open end that facilitates mating with another member corresponds to the "opening." From another viewpoint, the opening portion or open end of a housing-like member that has an elastic member inside may correspond to the "opening." The opening may have a complementary shape (i.e., an opening shape) that is compatible with the shape of the other terminal. For example, the opening may have a substantially rectangular opening shape (see Figures 1(G) and 8(G)). The opening shape of the opening may also be a substantially circular shape or other shape.

[0042] In this disclosure, "approximately rectangular" primarily refers to quadrilateral shapes such as squares and rectangles, and any shape that can be recognized as quadrilateral at a glance by a person skilled in the art is sufficient. Therefore, its corners may be rounded. In this disclosure, "approximately circular" primarily refers to circular shapes such as perfect circles and ellipses, and any shape that can be recognized as circular at a glance by a person skilled in the art is acceptable. Therefore, shapes such as egg-shaped and teardrop-shaped may also be included in the category of approximately circular.

[0043] In the terminals of this disclosure, the contact portion and the protective portion may be positioned opposite each other (see Figures 2 and 9). This means that the contact portion and the protective portion may be adjacent to each other, and preferably arranged side by side along the axial direction of the terminal. In other words, the protective portion and the contact portion may be positioned opposite each other in the axial direction of the terminal, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the terminal (preferably, the protective portion is positioned closer to or further forward than the opening side of the terminal, while the contact portion is positioned further distal to or further rearward than the opening side of the terminal). Positioning the contact portion and the protective portion opposite each other in this way makes it easier to guide other terminals into the mating portion more appropriately. It also makes it easier to smoothly accommodate other terminals into the mating portion. In other words, with this configuration, abrasion of the plating layer at the contact portion and the protective portion is more easily suppressed or reduced.

[0044] The terminal of this disclosure is characterized in that at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion has two or more branched legs. In this regard, in the terminal of this disclosure, at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion may have parts or shapes that are separated from each other in a plan view.

[0045] In this disclosure, the portion that extends from the main body of the contact portion and / or protective portion, or the portion that extends in a branched form within the contact portion and / or protective portion, is referred to as a "leg," but depending on its shape, it may also be referred to as a "finger" or "claw." Therefore, the main body of the contact portion and protective portion can also be referred to as a "body" or "arm." The leg can also be described as a portion that is provided so as to branch off and extend from the tip side of the contact portion and / or protective portion that extends in the axial direction of the terminal. For example, the leg of the contact portion may correspond to a portion that is provided as a branch of the extension toward the front of the contact portion (or elastic member). Similarly, the leg of the protective portion may correspond to a portion that is provided as a branch of the extension toward the rear of the protective portion.

[0046] In this disclosure, the contact portion may have two or more branched legs (fingers or claws) (see Figure 1). Alternatively or additionally, the protective portion may also have two or more branched legs (fingers or claws) (see Figure 8). Both the contact portion and the protective portion may each have two or more branched legs (fingers or claws) (see Figure 2).

[0047] In this disclosure, "at least one of the contact portion and the protective portion has two or more branched legs" means that the contact portion and / or the protective portion have two or more branched end portions, i.e., legs (fingers or claws), when viewed particularly in plan view.

[0048] There is no particular limit to the number of branches or legs in the contact portion and / or protective portion (simply put, there is no limit to the number of fingers or claws). In one preferred embodiment, the number of branches or legs (i.e., the number of sub-parts provided by having the tip portions or outermost portions spaced apart from each other) is 2 or more, and for example, 10 or less, preferably 5 or less, more preferably 4 or less or 3 or less.

[0049] For example, if the number of branches or legs (fingers or claws) is "2", the contact portion and / or protective portion may have shapes such as a roughly Y-shape, a roughly C-shape, a roughly semicircular shape, a roughly V-shape, or a roughly U-shape when viewed from above or in a plan view. In one preferred embodiment, in a plan view, the elastic member having the contact portion has branched portions (i.e., legs) at its free end that gradually increase the distance between them toward the front side (i.e., the open end of the terminal). It can also be said that the end or tip of the elastic member corresponding to the front side of the terminal is branched. If the number of branches or legs is greater than "2", the contact portion and / or protective portion may have shapes such as the above shape, a comb shape, a fork shape, etc.

[0050] If the contact portion and / or protective portion have such legs (fingers or claws), the abrasion of the plating layer at the contact portion and protective portion is more easily suppressed or reduced. Further details will be explained in the following embodiments.

[0051] The terminals of this disclosure may be manufactured primarily from metals (such as metals containing elements such as iron, copper, nickel, aluminum, zinc, tin, lead, titanium, gold, silver, and / or platinum) or alloys (such as alloys containing the above elements, e.g., steel and / or brass). For example, the elastic members of the terminals may be formed from such metals. Preferably, the terminals of this disclosure are manufactured from plated metal or alloy plate-like materials.

[0052] In this disclosure, “other terminals” means components or members that can physically contact the terminals of this disclosure, in particular the contact portion located within the mating portion, to form an electrical contact point or contact. In this disclosure, other terminals may also be referred to as “male terminals.”

[0053] Other terminals are not particularly limited in shape, as long as a portion of them can be located within the mating portion of the terminal of the disclosure. Preferably, the other terminals have an elongated shape overall. The other terminals may have, for example, a cross-sectional shape opposite to the contact portion of the terminal of the disclosure, in other words, a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the other terminal, such as the substantially rectangular or substantially circular shape described above. The tip of the other terminal may be tapered and / or rounded as needed.

[0054] Other terminals may be made primarily from metals (such as metals containing elements like iron, copper, nickel, aluminum, zinc, tin, lead, titanium, gold, silver, platinum, silicon, and / or magnesium) or alloys (such as alloys containing the above elements, e.g., steel and / or brass). For example, in other terminals, components that contribute to electrical connection with the contact portion of the terminal of this disclosure may be formed from such metals. Other terminals are preferably made from plated metal or alloy plated or rod-shaped materials. In short, other terminals may be rod-shaped terminals. Alternatively, commercially available terminals may be used.

[0055] In this disclosure, “plating” or “plated layer” usually means plating or a plated layer used in the field of terminals. For example, “plating” or “plated layer” means a portion or layer that can be formed from a metal or alloy containing elements such as chromium, zinc, nickel, tin, copper, gold, silver, and / or palladium. Specific examples of plating include chromium plating, zinc plating, nickel plating, tin plating, copper plating, gold plating, silver plating, palladium plating, and alloy plating containing multiple of the above metals. In a preferred embodiment, it may be tin plating, and in particular tin plating containing elements of Sn and Cu. Alternatively, tin plating containing elements such as Sn, Cu, and Ni that contributes to low insertion force may be used. Plating can improve the conductivity and / or corrosion resistance of the terminal.

[0056] The thickness of the "plating layer" in the terminals of this disclosure may be such that it is provided at least at the contact portion. The thickness of the plating layer is, for example, 0.01 μm or more and 100 μm or less. In the terminals of this disclosure, the thinner the thickness of the plating layer provided on the terminal, the more easily the abrasion of the plating layer is suppressed or reduced. On the other hand, the thicker the plating layer, the more easily the effects of the present invention become apparent.

[0057] The thickness of the "plating layer" on other terminals may be such that it is provided at least in the portion that contacts the terminal's contact point, for example, 0.01 μm or more and 100 μm or less. Similarly, the thinner the plating layer on other terminals, the more easily the abrasion of the plating layer is suppressed or reduced. On the other hand, the thicker the plating layer, the more easily the effects of the present invention become apparent.

[0058] The terminals of this disclosure may further have portions or parts for attaching electric wires (hereinafter referred to as "wire connection portions" or simply "connection portions"). For example, the wire connection portion may include extensions that extend longitudinally from the rear end of the mating portion, preferably from the bottom and / or side of the rear end of the mating portion (not shown).

[0059] The cross-sectional shape of the wire connection portion, for example, the shape of the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is preferably approximately U-shaped or approximately V-shaped (not shown).

[0060] The wire connection part may include a connection part having the same shape as a conventional receptacle terminal.

[0061] (Method of manufacturing terminals in this disclosure) There are no particular limitations on the method of manufacturing the terminals of this disclosure. For example, the terminals of this disclosure may be manufactured by cutting a plated metal or alloy plate-like member, then forming it by pressing, particularly forming the contact portion by pressing, and further bending and / or folding the plate-like member.

[0062] The thickness of the plate-shaped member used to manufacture the terminals of this disclosure is, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0063] The terminals of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to several exemplary embodiments.

[0064] In the following description, drawings will be referenced as necessary; however, the various elements and configurations in the drawings are shown schematically and illustratively for the purpose of understanding this disclosure, and their appearance and / or dimensional ratios may differ from those of the actual product.

[0065] As used herein, "plan view" refers to a sketch (including a perspective drawing) of an object viewed from above or below.

[0066] Furthermore, the terms “up / down direction” and “left / right direction,” used directly or indirectly in this specification, correspond to the up / down direction and left / right direction in the figures, respectively. Unless otherwise specified, the same reference numeral or symbol indicates the same member or part or has the same meaning. In one preferred embodiment, the vertical downward direction (i.e., the direction in which gravity acts) can be considered as the “downward direction,” and the opposite direction as the “upward direction.” Also, the side with an opening or open end corresponds to the “front” of the terminal, and the opposite side corresponds to the “rear” of the terminal.

[0067] (First Embodiment) The terminals according to the first embodiment of this disclosure are shown in Figures 1 to 7. The terminal 10 according to the first embodiment mainly has the following features. The terminal 10 according to the first embodiment is a terminal that can accommodate other terminals 15. In particular, the terminal 10 has a mating portion for accommodating other terminals 15 (see Figures 1, 6, and 7). The mating portion has a contact portion 2 and a protective portion 3 (see Figures 1 and 2). The contact portion 2 is the portion that includes a contact point (2p) with other terminals 15 that can be accommodated in the mating portion (see Figure 7(D)). The protective portion 3 is provided at the open end of the terminal 10. In other words, the protective portion 3 is provided at the opening of the mating portion (see Figures 1(G) and 1(H)). The contact portion 2 and the protection portion 3 are positioned to face each other (see top views in Figures 1(C) and 2). As shown, the contact portion 2 and the protection portion 3 may be provided adjacent to each other (in particular, they may be aligned and / or adjacent to each other along the axial direction of the terminal). The contact portion 2 has two legs (finger or claw portions) as branched legs, a first leg (2a) and a second leg (2b) (see Figures 1(C) and 2). As shown, the branched legs of the contact portion 2 may extend toward the open end such that the distance between them gradually increases.

[0068] As shown in Figure 1, the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment has a fitting portion for accommodating another terminal 15 (see Figures 6 and 7), and the fitting portion includes an elastic member (e.g., a leaf or leaf spring) 1 made of a plate-shaped metal or alloy plate material inside (see Figures 1(C) and (D)). A contact portion 2 is provided at one end of the elastic member 1, and the other end of the elastic member 1 is fixed at or around the rear end portion 4 of the fitting portion. Therefore, the end of the elastic member 1 having the contact portion 2 is displaceable as a free end inside the fitting portion (particularly displaceable vertically) (see Figure 1(D)).

[0069] Here, Figure 1(A) shows a top view of the mating portion of the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1(B) is a side view of one side of the mating portion of terminal 10. Figure 1(C) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of terminal 10 shown in Figure 1(B) at the Y-Y' point. Figure 1(D) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of terminal 10 shown in Figure 1(A) along the line X-X'. Figure 1(E) is a bottom view of the mating portion of terminal 10. Figure 1(F) is a side view of the other mating portion of terminal 10. Figure 1(G) is a front view of the mating portion of terminal 10 as seen from the side of the opening. Figure 1(H) is a perspective view of the mating portion of terminal 10, seen from the side of the opening. Figure 1(I) is a perspective view of the rear end of the mating portion of terminal 10. The rear end of terminal 10 shown in Figure 1(I) may optionally be provided with a portion or part for attaching an electric wire. Figures 4 to 7 similarly show terminal 10 and other terminals 15 according to the first embodiment.

[0070] In the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment, for example, as shown in Figures 1(C) and 2, the contact portion 2 positioned opposite the protective portion 3 has two branched legs (finger portions or claw portions), more specifically a first leg portion (2a) and a second leg portion (2b).

[0071] The first leg portion (2a) and the second leg portion (2b) of the contact portion 2 may be positioned symmetrically in a plan view, for example, as shown in Figure 2. The first leg portion (2a) and the second leg portion (2b) may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elastic member 1, for example.

[0072] The first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be positioned at an angle to each other to form a virtual corner or angle. For example, the angle θ1 of the virtual corner or angle formed by the intersection of straight lines (e.g., the two dashed lines shown in Figure 2) passing through the geometric centers of the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) is greater than 0° and less than or equal to 120°, preferably between 15° and 60°. In other words, the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may have a scissor-like shape. That is, the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be positioned such that their separation distance from each other gradually changes (for example, gradually increasing toward the front side of the terminal). The first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be called fingers or claws. Alternatively, the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be arranged parallel to each other. In other words, the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be provided such that their separation distance from each other is constant or substantially constant.

[0073] The first leg portion (2a) and the second leg portion (2b) may have a shape such that they are the first to come into contact with the tip portion 16 of the other terminals 15 within the contact portion 2 (see Figures 5(C) and 5(D)).

[0074] The cross-sectional shape of the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be, for example, a roughly U-shaped or roughly V-shaped convex shape in the direction perpendicular to the dashed line shown in Figure 2.

[0075] The lengths of the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b), specifically the distance D1 in the longitudinal axis direction of the terminal, are, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 2 mm or less.

[0076] Here, Figures 4 and 5 show the case where another terminal 15 is inserted from an undesirable oblique direction. In this case, the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 will first come into contact with the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 (see Figures 5(C) and 5(D)). Therefore, the impact force received by the contact portion 2, especially the contact point (2p), can be reduced, and preferably, the abrasion of the plating layer provided on the contact portion 2, especially the plating layer provided on the contact point (2p), can be suppressed or reduced (see Figure 7(D)). This is because the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 does not directly reach and / or first come into contact with the plating layer of the contact point (2p) of the contact portion 2. With two or more legs in this manner, the abrasion of the plating layer, especially the abrasion of the plating layer at the contact point (2p), can be suppressed or reduced, and consequently, the resistance value of the terminal can be further stabilized.

[0077] Preferably, the protective portion 3 is provided opposite the contact portion 2. For example, as shown in Figure 2, at least a part of the protective portion 3, such as the tip (or very tip) (3t), may be positioned between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 in a plan view. The legs and the protective portion may be arranged in such a way that they partially overlap each other in the transverse direction of the terminal (for example, the protective portion is partially provided inside the branching legs in a plan view). With such an arrangement, even if the contact portion 2 is displaced in the left-right direction (or width direction) as well as the up-down direction, the first leg (2a) and / or second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 will contact or interfere with a part of the protective portion 3 (for example, the tip (3t)), making it easier to prevent deformation of the contact portion 2 and its legs (2a, 2b). In other words, the terminal of this disclosure can perform an anti-over function.

[0078] More specifically, the protective portion 3 may be a member that extends from the opening of the mating portion of the terminal 10, particularly the bottom or bottom surface, and is preferably formed by folding back in a substantially U-shape or substantially V-shape at or around the opening of the mating portion and positioned opposite the contact portion 2 (see Figures 1(C), 1(D), and 1(H)). The protective portion 3 may have a curved surface on the opening side (see Figure 1(H)). In other words, the protective portion may have a curved form in which the portion forming the opening end of the terminal extends longer than a portion (particularly a form that is folded back toward the rear, or a form that is folded back from the front to the rear and curved). In this case, the tip portion (3t) of the protective portion 3 may be bent downward, that is, toward the bottom surface of the mating portion, and / or tilted.

[0079] The folded shape of the protective portion 3 can mitigate contact with the tip portions 16 of other terminals 15 (see Figures 4(D), 5(D), 6(D), and 7(D)). In a preferred embodiment, the protected portion having a folded shape may have higher strength (it may have structural strength that can more suitably withstand contact with other terminals).

[0080] The protective portion 3 may have, for example, a hollow portion or recess 3c, specifically a slit, in the folded portion (for example, such a hollow portion, recess, or slit may be provided in the portion corresponding to the protective area extending from the point of greatest curvature to the rear). In this regard, the protective portion 3 may have two or more branched legs, for example, a first leg (3a) and a second leg (3b) (see Figures 1(C), 1(G), and 1(H)). In other words, the protective portion may have portions (local areas) that are separated from each other in a plan view, and the portions used for separation may have a recessed shape. Furthermore, the recessed portion (3c), hollow section, or slit is entirely optional and may or may not be present in the protective section 3.

[0081] The first leg portion (3a) of the protective portion 3 can be positioned opposite or adjacent to the first leg portion (2a) of the contact portion 2. The second leg portion (3b) of the protective portion 3 can be positioned opposite or adjacent to the second leg portion (2b) of the contact portion 2. In other words, the first leg portion (3a) may be positioned more proximal to the first leg portion (2a), while the second leg portion (3b) may be positioned more proximal to the second leg portion (2b).

[0082] For example, as shown in an enlarged view in Figure 2, at least a portion of the protective portion 3 may be positioned between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 in a plan view. Preferably, at least a portion of the first leg (3a) and the second leg (3b) of the protective portion 3 is positioned in the spatial region between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2.

[0083] In the illustrated configuration, the tips (especially the very tips) 3t of the first leg (3a) and second leg (3b) of the protective portion 3 can be positioned close to or adjacent to the intermediate portion (or branching portion or crotch portion) 2c provided between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2.

[0084] The intermediate portion 2c of the contact portion 2 (i.e., the contact portion contour portion located between the legs that are separated from each other in a plan view) may or may not be present, but the presence of the intermediate portion (2c) makes it easier for the tip portion (3t) of the protective portion 3 to be positioned closer to or adjacent to the contact portion 2.

[0085] The first leg portion (3a) and the second leg portion (3b) of the protective portion 3 and the first leg portion (2a) and the second leg portion (2b) of the contact portion 2 may have complementary shapes (in particular, at least a part of their contours may be complementary in a plan view). For example, adjacent sides may be positioned in a substantially parallel relationship. Furthermore, the tip portion 3t of the protective portion 3 and the intermediate portion 2c of the contact portion 2 may have complementary shapes such that they are located close to or adjacent to each other.

[0086] When the tip (3t) of the protective part 3 is positioned between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact part 2, it becomes easier to guide the other terminals 15 into the mating part more smoothly.

[0087] Here, Figures 4 and 5 show the case where the other terminal 15 is accidentally inserted from an oblique direction. In such a case, the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 can slide along the surface (particularly the upper surface) of the first leg (3a) and second leg (3b) of the protect portion 3. Then, the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 can come into contact with at least a portion of the first leg (2a) and second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2, for example, at least one of their surfaces (particularly the upper surface) (see Figures 5(C) and 5(D)). After contact, the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 can slide along the upper surface of the first leg (2a) and second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 (see Figures 5(C), 5(D), and 7(D)). Finally, as shown in Figure 7(D), the lower surface of the other terminal 15 comes into physical and / or electrical contact with the contact portion 2 to form a contact point 2p.

[0088] In this way, when at least a portion of the protective portion 3 is positioned between the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2, it becomes easier to smoothly introduce the other terminal 15 into the mating portion while avoiding the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 directly reaching and / or making contact with the contact point (2p) first. In particular, even when the other terminal 15 is inserted from an oblique direction, it is possible to suppress or reduce the abrasion of the plating layer of the other terminal 15 and the terminal 10 of this disclosure, especially the contact portion 2, and in particular the contact point (2p), and consequently, the resistance value of each terminal can be stabilized.

[0089] In this way, the other terminals 15 can continuously slide and move along the upper surfaces of the first legs (3a) and second legs (3b) of the protective portion 3, and then along the upper surfaces of the first legs (2a) and second legs (2b) of the contact portion 2 (see Figures 5(C) and 5(D)). Therefore, it is possible to suppress or prevent the other terminals 15 from getting underneath the contact portion 2 (see Figure 5(D)). Consequently, damage to the plating layer of the other terminals 15 is suppressed or prevented.

[0090] There are no particular restrictions on the ratio (D3 / D2) of the distance (distance in the longitudinal direction) D3 between the longest distance (distance in the longitudinal direction) D2 between the tip (3t) of the protective part 3 and the contact part 2, for example, the middle part (2c), and the overlapping portion of the first leg (3a) or second leg (3b) of the protective part 3 and the first leg (2a) or second leg (2b) of the contact part 2. The ratio of D3 / D2 may be, for example, 1 / 99 or more and 99 / 1 or less, and 20 / 80 or more and 80 / 20 or less. When the ratio of D3 / D2 is within the above range, it becomes easier to suppress the abrasion or reduction of the plating layer.

[0091] The protective portion 3 may have a hollow portion or a recess (3c) formed therein (for example, a recess in the protective portion may be provided between legs that are spaced apart from each other). It can also be said that the legs in the protective portion may be connected to each other by a protective portion (solid protective portion) located in or contributing to the formation of such a recess. In particular, if a recess (3c) is provided in the center of the protective portion 3 along the longitudinal axis of the terminal 10 or the protective portion 3, the presence of such a recess (3c) provides an area where the protective portion 3 and the other terminal 15 do not come into direct contact. In other words, a non-contact area between the protective portion 3 and the other terminal 15 can be formed. In such a non-contact area, abrasion of the plating layer is more easily avoided. In particular, in the other terminal 15, abrasion of the plating layer is more easily avoided in areas where a contact point (2p) that may be formed by physical contact with the contact portion 2 may be formed (see Figure 7(D)).

[0092] Thus, the protective portion 3 may have a hollow portion or recess (3c) provided so as not to come into contact (especially direct contact) with other terminals 15. The hollow portion or recess (3c), together with the first leg (2a) and second leg (2b) of the branched contact portion 2, synergistically suppresses or reduces abrasion of the plating layer. Hereinafter, "so as not to come into contact with other terminals" refers to a configuration in which the protective portion has a portion that does not come into direct contact with other terminals when the terminal of this disclosure and other terminals are combined with each other or when they are combined.

[0093] There are no particular restrictions on the ratio (D5 / D4) of the dimension D5 of the recess (3c) in the width direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis direction) to the dimension D4 of the protective portion 3 in the width direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis direction). The ratio of D5 / D4 may be, for example, 1 / 99 or more and less than 50 / 50, and 10 / 90 or more and 30 / 70 or less. If the ratio of D5 / D4 is within the above range, it becomes easier to suppress the abrasion or reduction of the plating layer.

[0094] In the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment, if a part of the protective part 3, for example the tip (3t) of the protective part 3, is located between the legs (2a, 2b) of the contact part 2, for example between the two tip portions (2t) of the contact part 2, in other words, if, for example, the two tip portions (2t) of the contact part 2 and the tip (3t) of the protective part 3 overlap in the longitudinal axis direction and there is a distance D3 (see Figure 2), then, for example as shown in Figure 5(C), the tip 16 of the other terminal 15 can come into contact with both the contact part 2 and the protective part 3, specifically the tip (2t) of the contact part 2 and the tip (3t) of the protective part 3 (see Figures 5(C) and (D)). Therefore, even if the other terminal 15 is inserted from an oblique direction (see Figures 4(B) and 5(B)), the pressure is distributed, making it easier to avoid a direct collision at the contact point (2p) between the other terminal 15 and the contact part 2. In other words, as a result, the wear of the plating layer at the contact point (2p) of contact portion 2 becomes easier to suppress or reduce.

[0095] As a modified or variation, for example, as shown in Figure 3, the tip (2t) of the first leg (2a) and / or the tip (2t) of the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 and the tip (3t) of the protect portion 3 may be spaced apart from each other in a plan view. In other words, in a plan view, the legs of the contact portion and the protect portion may be in a non-overlapping arrangement where they do not overlap each other in the transverse direction of the terminal. Even in such a case, the abrasion of the plating layer of the two terminals (10, 15) can be significantly suppressed or reduced. The direction of separation may be the direction of travel of the other terminal as shown in the figure, or it may be the vertical direction (the thickness direction or height direction of terminal 10).

[0096] For example, the ratio of D2 / D1 shown in Figure 3 (i.e., the ratio of the longest distance (distance in the longitudinal axis direction) D2 from the contact part 2 (e.g., the intermediate part (2c)) to the tip part (3t) of the protective part 3) to the length D1 of the first leg (2a) or second leg (2b) of the contact part 2) should be 1 or greater. The distance D6 from the tip (2t) of the contact portion 2 to the tip (3t) of the protective portion 3 (the distance in the longitudinal axis direction) is, for example, 0 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0097] In the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment, the tip (2t) of the first leg (2a) of the contact portion 2, in particular the upper surface of the tip (2t), and / or the tip (2t) of the second leg (2b), in particular the upper surface of the tip (2t), may be positioned lower than the tip (3t) of the protect portion 3, in particular the upper surface of the tip (3t) (see Figure 4(D)). In other words, the tip (3t) of the protect portion 3, in particular the upper surface of the tip (3t), may be positioned higher than the tip (2t) of the first leg (2a) of the contact portion 2, in particular the upper surface of the tip (2t), and / or the tip (2t) of the second leg (2b), in particular the upper surface of the tip (2t). In other words, in the state of the terminal before it is combined with other terminals, the outermost edges of the first leg (2a) and / or second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 that branches and extends forward may be positioned lower than the outermost edge of the protective portion 3 that folds back to the rear. It can also be said that the leading edge level of the first leg (2a) and / or second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 may be lower than the leading edge level of the protective portion 3. Furthermore, the contact portion area other than the outermost edges of the first leg (2a) and / or second leg (2b) may include areas positioned higher than the protective portion 3.

[0098] Due to this height relationship, the other terminals 15 can slide and glide more smoothly on the upper surfaces of the first legs (3a) and second legs (3b) of the protective portion 3, and then on the upper surfaces of the first legs (2a) and second legs (2b) of the contact portion 2 (see Figure 5(C)). As a result, it becomes easier to further suppress or prevent the other terminals 15, especially the tip portion 16, from getting stuck under the contact portion 2, and consequently, damage to the plating layer of the other terminals 15 (see Figure 5(D)).

[0099] According to the terminal 10 of the first embodiment, even when the other terminal 15 is inserted from an oblique direction, for example, at an angle of 1° or more but less than 90°, preferably 1° or more but 60° or less, and more preferably 1° or more but 45° or less, the other terminal 15 can be inserted more successfully into the mating portion of terminal 10 (see Figures 4 and 5). In this case, the risk of damaging the plating layer of the two terminals (10, 15), particularly the contact portion 2 of terminal 10 of this disclosure, can be reduced relatively significantly.

[0100] Even when the other terminal 15 is inserted horizontally (i.e., inserted along the axial direction of the terminal / inserted without forming an angle with respect to the axial direction), the abrasion of the plating layer on the two terminals (10, 15) is significantly reduced (see Figures 6 and 7).

[0101] In this way, the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment makes it easier to significantly reduce the wear of the plating layer on the two terminals (10, 15), and also makes it easier to form the contact point 2p through physical and electrical contact between the other terminal 15 and the contact portion 2 (see Figure 7(D)). Consequently, it becomes easier to stabilize the resistance values ​​of the two terminals (10, 15).

[0102] Furthermore, in the terminal of this disclosure, the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) of the contact portion 2 may be joined together to form a ring. That is, the tips of the branched first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) may be connected to each other. In plan view, the contact portion may have an annular shape including the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b). The contact portion 2 may, for example, form a ring together with the first leg (2a) and the second leg (2b) and its intermediate portion (2c). The shape of the ring is not particularly limited and may have shapes such as a roughly circular shape (including elliptical, egg-shaped, teardrop-shaped, etc.), a roughly rectangular shape (including quadrilateral, trapezoid, etc.), a roughly triangular shape, or a polygon with pentagons or more. More specifically, the contact portion 2 may have a shape similar to that of a bottle opener, a goldfish scooping tool, or the frame of a magnifying glass. In this way, when the first leg portion (2a) and the second leg portion (2b) of the contact portion (2) are connected to each other at their tips, higher structural strength can be provided to the contact portion.

[0103] (Second Embodiment) The terminals according to the second embodiment of this disclosure are shown in Figures 8 to 14. The terminal (20) according to the second embodiment mainly has the following features. The terminal 20 according to the second embodiment is a terminal that can accommodate other terminals 25. In particular, the terminal 20 has a mating portion for accommodating other terminals 25 (see Figures 8, 13, and 14). The mating portion has a contact portion 22 and a protective portion 23 (see Figures 8 and 9). The contact portion 22 may include a contact point (22p) with other terminals 25 that can be accommodated in the mating portion (see Figure 14(D)). The protective portion 23 is provided at the open end of the terminal 20. In other words, the protective portion 23 is provided at the opening of the mating portion (see Figures 8(G) and 8(H)). The contact portion 22 and the protection portion 23 are positioned to face each other (see top views in Figures 8(C) and 9). As shown, the contact portion 22 and the protection portion 23 may be provided adjacent to each other (in particular, they may be aligned or adjacent to each other along the axial direction of the terminal). The protective section 23 has two branched legs (toe or claw parts), namely a first leg (23a) and a second leg (23b) (see Figures 8(C) and 9).

[0104] More specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment includes an elastic member 21. The elastic member 21, like the elastic member 1 included in the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment, has a contact portion 22 at one end and the other end is fixed to the rear end of the fitting portion or around it. Furthermore, the elastic member 21 included in the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment is a member that can correspond to the elastic member 1 included in the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment. The contact portion 22 included in the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment is a portion or part that can correspond to the contact portion 2 included in the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment. The protective portion 23 included in the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment is a portion or part that can correspond to the protective portion 3 included in the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0105] Here, Figure 8(A) shows a top view of the mating portion of the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment. Figure 8(B) is a side view of one side of the mating portion of terminal 20. Figure 8(C) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of terminal 20 shown in Figure 8(B) at the Y-Y' point. Figure 8(D) is a cross-sectional view of the mating portion of terminal 20 shown in Figure 8(A) along the line X-X'. Figure 8(E) is a bottom view of the mating portion of terminal 20. Figure 8(F) is a side view of the other mating portion of terminal 20. Figure 8(G) is a front view of the mating portion of terminal 20 as seen from the side of the opening. Figure 8(H) is a perspective view of the mating portion of terminal 20, seen from the side of the opening. Figure 8(I) is a perspective view of the mating portion of terminal 20 as seen from the rear end. The rear end of terminal 20 shown in Figure 8(I) may optionally be provided with a portion or part for attaching an electric wire. Figures 11 to 14 similarly show terminal 20 and other terminals 25 according to the second embodiment.

[0106] In the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment, as shown in Figures 8(C) and 9, for example, the protective portion 23 positioned opposite the contact portion 22 has two branched legs (finger portions or claw portions), more specifically a first leg portion (23a) and a second leg portion (23b). As shown in the figures, the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b) may have a form that branches and extends from the front to the rear. In a plan view, the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b) may protrude to the rear.

[0107] The first leg (23a) and second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 may be positioned symmetrically in a plan view, as shown in Figure 9, for example. The first leg (23a) and second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the mating portion of the terminal 20.

[0108] For example, as shown in Figure 9, at least a portion of the contact portion 22, preferably the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22, may be positioned between the first leg (23a) and the second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 in a plan view. With this positional relationship, even if the contact portion 22 is displaced in the left-right direction (or width direction) as well as the up-down direction, the tip 22t of the contact portion 22 can return the contact portion 22 to its original position (or center position) by contacting or interfering with the first leg (23a) and / or second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23. In other words, the terminal of this disclosure can perform a guide function.

[0109] Here, Figures 11 and 12 show the case where the other terminal 25 is inserted from an undesirable oblique direction. In such a case, the tip 26 of the other terminal 25 will come into contact with the upper surface of the protective portion 23, and then with at least one of the first leg (23a) and the second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 (see Figure 12(D)). Therefore, the impact force or pressure received by the contact portion 22, especially the contact point (22p), can be reduced by the first leg (23a) and the second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 receiving the impact force. Furthermore, the sliding of the other terminal 25 along the upper surface of the first leg (23a) and the second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 can suppress or reduce the abrasion of the plating layer provided on the contact portion 22, especially the plating layer at the contact point 22p (see Figure 14(D)). This is because the tips 26 of the other terminals 25 do not directly reach or initially contact the plating layer at the contact point 22p. By providing two or more legs (23a, 23b) on the protective portion in this way, abrasion of the plating layer is suppressed or reduced, and consequently, the resistance value of the terminal is made more stable.

[0110] For example, as shown in Figure 9, by positioning at least a portion of the contact portion 22, such as the tip portion (22t), between the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b) of the protective portion 23, the other terminal 25 can continuously slide along the surfaces (especially the upper surface) of the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b) of the protective portion 23, and then along the surface (especially the upper surface) of the contact portion 22. This prevents the other terminal 25, particularly its tip portion 26, from getting underneath the contact portion 22. Consequently, damage to the plating layer of the other terminal 25 can be prevented (see Figure 12(D)).

[0111] Furthermore, the other terminals 25 can be more smoothly introduced into the mating portion by continuously sliding along the upper surfaces of the first legs (23a) and second legs (23b) of the protective portion 23, and then the upper surface of the contact portion 22 (see Figures 12(C) and 12(D)). Therefore, damage to the plating layer of the other terminals 25 and the contact portion 22 of the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment, particularly the contact point 22p, is further suppressed or prevented.

[0112] The protective portion 23 is a member that may extend from the opening of the mating portion of the terminal 20, particularly from the bottom or bottom surface, and is preferably folded back in a substantially U-shape or substantially V-shape at the opening of the mating portion and positioned opposite the contact portion 22 (see top view in Figures 8(D), 8(H), and 9). The protective portion 23 is preferably curved on the opening side (see Figures 8(D) and 8(H)). The protective portion may have a curved form in which the portion forming the opening end of the terminal extends longer than a portion (particularly a form folded back toward the rear). In this case, the tip of the protective portion 23, for example, the tip 23t of the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b), may be bent downward, i.e., toward the bottom surface of the mating portion, and / or inclined (see Figure 8(D)).

[0113] For example, as shown in Figure 9, the lengths of the first leg (23a) and the second leg (23b) of the protective part 23, specifically the distance D7 in the longitudinal axis direction of the terminal, are, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0114] An intermediate portion 23c may be provided between the first leg portion (23a) and the second leg portion (23b) of the protective portion 23. There are no particular restrictions on the ratio (D9 / D8) of the length (distance in the longitudinal direction) D9 of the overlapping portion between the first leg portion (23a) or the second leg portion (23b) of the protective portion 23 and the contact portion 22, relative to the maximum distance (distance in the longitudinal direction) D8 between the intermediate portion (23c) of the protective portion 23 and the tip portion 22t of the contact portion 22. The ratio of D9 / D8 may be, for example, 1 / 99 or more and 99 / 1 or less, and 30 / 70 or more and 70 / 30 or less. If the ratio of D9 / D8 is within the above range, it becomes easier to further suppress the abrasion of the plating layer.

[0115] The distance between the two tip portions (23t) of the protective portion 23 (distance perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) D 10 The dimension D of the contact portion 22 in the width direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis direction) 11 The ratio (D 11 / D 10 There are no particular restrictions on D. 11 / D 10 The ratio may be, for example, 1 / 99 or more and less than 50 / 50, and 30 / 70 or more and 40 / 60 or less. 11 / D 10 If the ratio is within the above range, it becomes easier to further suppress the abrasion of the plating layer.

[0116] The first leg portion (23a) and / or the second leg portion (23b) of the protective portion 23 may be flared outward from each other. In other words, they may extend or protrude outward at an oblique angle.

[0117] In the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment, if a part of the contact portion 22, for example the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22, is located between the legs (23a, 23b) of the protective portion 23, for example between the two tip portions (23t) of the protective portion 23, in other words, if, for example, the two tip portions (23t) of the protective portion 23 and the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22 overlap in the longitudinal axis direction and there is a distance D9 (see Figure 9), then, for example as shown in Figure 12(C), the tip 26 of the other terminal 25 can come into contact with both the protective portion 23 and the contact portion 22, specifically the tip (23t) of the protective portion 23 and the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22 (see Figure 12(D)). Therefore, even if other terminals 25 are inserted from an oblique direction (see Figures 11(B) and 12(B)), the pressure is distributed, making it easier to avoid direct collision at the contact point (22p) between the other terminals 25 and the contact portion 22. In other words, as a result, the abrasion of the plating layer at the contact point (22p) of the contact portion 22 is more easily suppressed or reduced.

[0118] As a modified or variation, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the tip (23t) of the first leg (23a) and / or the tip (23t) of the second leg (23b) of the protective portion 23 and the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22 may be spaced apart from each other in a plan view. In other words, in a plan view, the legs of the protective portion and the contact portion may be in a non-overlapping arrangement where they do not overlap each other in the transverse direction of the terminal. Even in such a case, the abrasion of the plating layer of the two terminals (20, 25) can be significantly suppressed or reduced. The direction of separation may be the direction of travel of the other terminal as shown in the figure, or it may be the vertical direction (the thickness direction or height direction of terminal 20).

[0119] For example, the ratio of D8 / D7 shown in FIG. 10 (that is, the ratio of the maximum length (distance in the longitudinal axis direction) D8 from the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22 to the protection portion 23 (specifically, the intermediate portion (23c)) with respect to the length (distance in the longitudinal axis direction) D7 of the first leg portion (23a) or the second leg portion (23b) of the protection portion 23) may be 1 or more. The distance (interval in the longitudinal axis direction) D between the tip (23t) of the protection portion 23 and the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22 12 is, for example, 0 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0120] In the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment, in a cross-sectional view in the thickness direction, the tip (23t) of the first leg portion (23a) of the protection portion 23, particularly the upper surface of the tip (23t), and / or the tip (23t) of the second leg portion (23b), particularly the upper surface of the tip (23t), may be positioned higher than the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22, particularly the upper surface of the tip (22t) (see FIG. 11(D)). In other words, the tip (22t) of the contact portion 22, particularly the upper surface of the tip (22t), may be positioned lower than the tip (23t) of the first leg portion (23a) of the protection portion 23, particularly the upper surface of the tip (23t), and / or the tip (23t) of the second leg portion (23b), particularly the upper surface of the tip (23t). That is, in the state of the terminal before being combined with other terminals, the outermost edge of the first leg portion (23a) and / or the second leg portion (23b) at the outermost edge of the protection portion 23 extending so as to fold back toward the rear side may be positioned higher than the outermost edge of the contact portion 22 extending forward. It can also be said that the outermost level of the first leg portion (23a) and / or the second leg portion (23b) of the protection portion may be higher than the outermost level of the contact portion 22. Note that the region other than the outermost edge of the contact portion may include a portion positioned higher than the protection portion.

[0121] This height relationship allows the other terminals 25 to slide more smoothly and continuously on the upper surfaces of the first legs (23a) and second legs (23b) of the protective portion 23, and then on the upper surface of the contact portion 22. As a result, it becomes easier to further suppress or prevent the tip portion 26 of the other terminals 25 from getting under the tip portion 22t of the contact portion 22, and it becomes easier to further suppress or prevent damage to the plating layer of the other terminals 25.

[0122] According to the terminal 20 of the second embodiment, even when the other terminal 25 is inserted from an oblique direction, for example, at an angle of 1° to less than 90°, preferably 1° to 60°, and more preferably 1° to 45°, the other terminal 25 can be inserted into the mating portion more successfully (see Figures 11, 12, and 14(D)). In this case, the risk of damaging the plating layer of the two terminals (20, 25), for example, the contact portion 22 of the terminal 20 of this disclosure, particularly the contact point 22p, can be reduced relatively significantly (see Figures 11(D), 12(D), and 14(D)). Consequently, the wear of the plating layer of the two terminals (20, 25) is significantly reduced.

[0123] Similarly, when the other terminal 25 is inserted horizontally (i.e., inserted along the axial direction of the terminal / inserted without forming an angle with respect to the axial direction), the abrasion of the plating layer of the two terminals (20, 25) is more easily reduced (see Figures 13 and 14).

[0124] In this way, the second embodiment of the present disclosure makes it easier to significantly reduce the wear of the plating layer on the two terminals (20, 25) and to form a contact point 22p through physical and electrical contact between the other terminal 25 and the contact portion 22 (see Figure 14(D)). Consequently, it becomes easier to stabilize the resistance values ​​of the two terminals (20, 25).

[0125] As described above, the terminals of this disclosure have been described in detail in the first and second embodiments, but the terminals of this disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to the first and second embodiments.

[0126] The configurations or elements described in the first and second embodiments may be used in any combination as appropriate and arbitrary within the scope of the idea or spirit of this disclosure. For example, the recess 3c provided in the protective portion 3 of the terminal 10 according to the first embodiment may be formed in the protective portion 23 of the terminal 20 according to the second embodiment. Doing so makes it easier to further suppress the abrasion of the plating layer.

[0127] In the terminals of this disclosure, the contact portion may be made of an elastic material. In particular, the contact portion may be made of an elastic material so as to press against or be able to press against another terminal (see Figures 1(D), 7(D), 8(D), and 14(D)). Here, "so as to press against another terminal" means a manner in which an external force is exerted on the other terminal due to the contact portion when the terminal of this disclosure and the other terminal are combined with each other or when they are combined (for example, a manner in which an external force is exerted on the other terminal that resists insertion when the other terminal is inserted into the opening of the terminal of this disclosure).

[0128] The elastic member may have both a free end and a fixed end, thereby pressing against other terminals. More specifically, the elastic member may have both a free end and a fixed end, with the free end having a contact portion and the fixed end being fixed to the mating portion, and the contact portion provided on the free end may be displaced to press against other terminals while other terminals are being accommodated in the mating portion (see Figures 7(D) and 14(D)). The terminal of this disclosure has such a configuration that, when other terminals are housed within the mating portion, other terminals are more easily and elastically held within the mating portion. On the other hand, the terminal of this disclosure can suppress or reduce abrasion of the plating layer. In other words, the terminal of this disclosure preferably achieves a more successful balance between two conflicting performances: pressing on other terminals and suppressing abrasion of the plating layer. [Industrial applicability]

[0129] The terminals of this disclosure can be used in a wide range of fields where electrical connections are required. While there are no particular limitations on the fields in which they can be used, for example, the terminals of this disclosure can be used for electrical connections in the electromechanical field. Specifically, the terminals of this disclosure can be used in fields where more stable resistance and / or pressing force is required, such as in the field of vehicles, including automobiles, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles. In particular, the terminals of this disclosure can be used as terminals for connecting to vehicle computers such as ECUs. They can also be used in various other vehicles and devices, including computers. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 1.21 Elastic member (or leaf) 2,22 Contact points 2a 1st leg 2b 2nd leg 2c Intermediate section (intermediate section of the contact point) 2t, 22t, 102t Tip (tip of the contact point) 2p,22p contact point 3.23 Protective section (or protector) 3a,23a 1st leg 3b,23b 2nd leg 3c recess (or slit) 3t, 23t, 103t Tip section (tip section of the protective part) 23c Intermediate section (intermediate section of the protective part) 4,24 Rear end 10,20 terminals 15, 25, 105 Other terminals 16, 26, 106 Tips of other terminals 100 Previous terminal 101 Conventional elastic member (or leaf) 102 Previous contact part 103 Previous protective section (or protector) 104 Previous rear end

Claims

1. A terminal having a mating portion, wherein the mating portion has a contact portion and a protective portion. The aforementioned contact portion is a part that includes a contact point with other terminals housed in the mating portion, The protective portion is provided in the opening of the fitting portion. The contact portion and the protective portion are positioned to face each other. At least one of the contact portion and the protective portion has two or more branched legs, The contact portion has two legs, a first leg and a second leg, as the branched legs. In a plan view, at least a portion of the protective portion is positioned between the first leg portion and the second leg portion of the contact portion, and / or A terminal in which the protective portion has two legs, a first leg and a second leg, as the branched legs, and at least a part of the contact portion is positioned between the first leg and the second leg of the protective portion in a plan view.

2. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein, in a plan view, the tip of the first leg of the contact portion and / or the tip of the second leg of the contact portion are spaced apart from the tip of the protective portion.

3. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein, in a cross-sectional view in the thickness direction, the tip of the first leg of the contact portion and / or the tip of the second leg of the contact portion are positioned lower than the tip of the protective portion.

4. The terminal according to claim 1, having a recess provided so that the protective portion does not come into contact with the other terminals.

5. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein the first leg and the second leg of the contact portion are joined together to form a ring.

6. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein, in a plan view, the tip of the first leg of the protective portion and / or the tip of the second leg of the protective portion are spaced apart from the tip of the contact portion.

7. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein, in a cross-sectional view in the thickness direction, the tip of the first leg of the protective portion and / or the tip of the second leg are positioned higher than the tip of the contact portion.

8. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein the contact portion is made of an elastic member so as to press against the other terminal.

9. The terminal according to claim 8, wherein the elastic member has a free end and a fixed end, the free end has the contact portion, the fixed end is fixed to the fitting portion, and the contact portion provided on the free end is configured to displace and press against the other terminal while the other terminal is being accommodated in the fitting portion.

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