connector

Abstract

To provide a connector which can prevent erroneous assembly of a seal member.SOLUTION: A connector comprises: a housing 30 which has an insertion part 35; and a first annular seal member 50 which is fitted to an outer circumferential surface of the insertion part 35. The first seal member 50 has: a seal body 51; and an engaging part 52A which includes a first engaging protrusion 53 and a second engaging protrusion 54. The first engaging protrusion 53 and the second engaging protrusion 54 are provided at positions overlap each other in a Z-axis direction. The first engaging protrusion 53 protrudes farther to one side in the circumferential direction than the second engaging protrusion 54. The second engaging protrusion 54 protrudes farther to the other side in the circumferential direction than the first engaging protrusion 53. A first housing groove 36 provided on the outer circumferential surface of the insertion part 35 has: a groove body 37; and an engagement target part 38A including a first engaging groove 39 and a second engaging groove 40. The first engaging groove 39 extends further to one side in the circumferential direction than the second engaging groove 40. The second engaging groove 40 extends further to the other side in the circumferential direction than the first engaging protrusion 53.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a connector including a terminal fitting and a cylindrical connector housing that holds the terminal fitting. An annular seal member is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the connector housing. The seal member is housed in a housing groove provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector housing.

[0003] The seal member is provided with two positioning pieces that protrude on opposite sides in the axial direction of the seal member. The two positioning pieces have the same shape as each other and are provided at the same position in the circumferential direction of the seal member.

[0004] The housing groove is provided with positioning recesses in which the respective positioning pieces are housed. Thereby, the seal member is positioned inside the housing groove.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] By the way, for example, in a seal member having a positioning piece smaller than the positioning piece described in Patent Document 1, the positioning piece of the seal member may be housed in the positioning recess of the housing groove. For this reason, there is a risk of incorrect assembly of the seal member with respect to the connector housing.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to suppress incorrect assembly of the seal member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The connector of this disclosure is a connector inserted into an insertion hole provided in an object to be connected, and comprises a plurality of terminals arranged in parallel with each other, a plurality of electric wires connected to each of the plurality of terminals, and an insertion portion that is inserted into the insertion hole, and a resin housing that holds the plurality of terminals and the plurality of electric wires, and an annular sealing member attached to the outer surface of the insertion portion and sealing the space between the insertion portion and the insertion hole, wherein when the circumferential direction and axial direction of the sealing member are simply defined as the circumferential direction and axial direction, respectively, the sealing member comprises an annular sealing body and an engagement portion including a first engagement projection and a second engagement projection that protrude from the sealing body toward opposite sides in the axial direction, and the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection are connected toward the axial The first engaging projection is positioned to overlap each other in the linear direction, the second engaging projection protrudes further in one circumferential direction than the second engaging projection, and the second engaging projection protrudes further in the other circumferential direction than the first engaging projection. The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion is provided with a housing groove in which the seal member is housed. The housing groove comprises a groove body in which the seal body is housed, and engaged portions extending from the groove body in opposite directions in the axial direction, and including a first engaging groove and a second engaging groove in which the first engaging projection and the second engaging projection are engaged, respectively. The first engaging groove extends further in one circumferential direction than the second engaging groove, and the second engaging groove extends further in the other circumferential direction than the first engaging projection. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, incorrect assembly of sealing members can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with the connector of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the connector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a side view of the housing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 5. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the housing taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 5. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the first seal member according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the cover according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view of the cover according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the cover according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the cover according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the connector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a side view of the housing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a side view of the housing according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the first seal member according to the second embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] [DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described. [1] The connector of the present disclosure is a connector that is inserted into an insertion hole provided in a connection target, and includes a plurality of terminals arranged in parallel with each other, a plurality of electric wires respectively connected to the plurality of terminals, an insertion portion inserted into the insertion hole, a resin housing that holds the plurality of terminals and the plurality of electric wires, and an annular seal member attached to an outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion for preventing water leakage between the insertion portion and the insertion hole. When the circumferential direction and the axial direction of the seal member are simply referred to as the circumferential direction and the axial direction respectively, the seal member has an annular seal body and an engaging portion including a first engaging protrusion and a second engaging protrusion that protrude from the seal body in opposite directions in the axial direction. The first engaging protrusion and the second engaging protrusion are provided at positions overlapping each other in the axial direction. The first engaging protrusion protrudes in one direction of the circumferential direction from the second engaging protrusion, and the second engaging protrusion protrudes in the other direction of the circumferential direction from the first engaging protrusion. An accommodation groove for accommodating the seal member is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion. The accommodation groove has a groove body for accommodating the seal body and an engaged portion including a first engaging groove and a second engaging groove that extend from the groove body in opposite directions in the axial direction and are respectively engaged with the first engaging protrusion and the second engaging protrusion. The first engaging groove extends in one direction of the circumferential direction from the second engaging groove, and the second engaging groove extends in the other direction of the circumferential direction from the first engaging protrusion.

[0012] According to the same configuration, the first engaging protrusion protrudes in one direction of the circumferential direction from the second engaging protrusion, and the second engaging protrusion protrudes in the other direction of the circumferential direction from the first engaging protrusion. Also, the first engaging groove extends in one direction of the circumferential direction from the second engaging groove, and the second engaging groove extends in the other direction of the circumferential direction from the first engaging groove.

[0013] Therefore, when a sealing member is attached to another housing in which a first engagement groove and a second engagement groove, both having the same shape, are provided at the same position in the circumferential direction, the sealing member becomes less likely to engage with the other housing. In other words, the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection of the sealing member become less likely to engage with the first engagement groove and the second engagement groove of the other housing, respectively. This makes it easier for the worker to notice if the sealing member has been incorrectly assembled to the other housing.

[0014] Furthermore, when another sealing member having first and second engaging protrusions of the same shape provided at the same position in the circumferential direction is attached to the housing, it becomes more difficult for the other sealing member to engage with the housing. In other words, the first and second engaging protrusions of the other sealing member become less likely to engage with the first and second engaging grooves of the housing, respectively. This makes it easier for the worker to notice if the other sealing member has been incorrectly assembled to the housing.

[0015] Based on the above, it is possible to prevent the sealing member from being incorrectly assembled to a housing other than the correct housing. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the incorrect assembly of a sealing member other than the correct housing to a housing.

[0016] [2] In the above [1], the housing has a cylindrical portion having the insertion portion and a holding portion that protrudes from the cylindrical portion toward the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and holds the plurality of terminals and the plurality of electric wires, and when the direction perpendicular to both the axial direction and the direction in which the holding portion protrudes is defined as the orthogonal direction, the engaging portion is provided at one end of the seal body in the orthogonal direction, and the engaged portion is provided at one end of the groove body in the orthogonal direction.

[0017] During injection molding of the housing, the removal direction of the part of the mold used to form the retaining portion may coincide with the axial direction of the sealing member, i.e., the axial direction of the cylindrical portion. Here, the engaged portion of the receiving groove extends axially from the groove body. Therefore, the exit direction of the mold used to form the engaged portion is away from the engaged portion towards the outer circumference of the groove body.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the engaged portion is provided at one end of the groove body in the direction perpendicular to the above. Therefore, the exit direction of the die that forms the engaged portion can be made to coincide with the direction perpendicular to the above. This makes it possible to suppress interference between the part of the die that forms the holding portion and the part that forms the engaged portion when the die is opened. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the moldability of the housing. In addition, it is possible to suppress an increase in the complexity of the structure of the die that forms the housing.

[0019] [3] In the above [1] or [2], it is preferable that the central portion of the first engaging projection in the circumferential direction is provided at a position that overlaps with the second engaging projection in the axial direction, and the central portion of the second engaging projection in the circumferential direction is provided at a position that overlaps with the first engaging projection in the axial direction.

[0020] This configuration prevents the length of the portion of the first engaging projection that protrudes beyond the second engaging projection on one circumferential side from becoming excessive, and the length of the portion of the second engaging projection that protrudes beyond the first engaging projection on the other circumferential side from becoming excessive. As a result, both ends of the engaging portion in the circumferential direction are more easily visible to the worker at the same time, making it easier for the worker to engage the first and second engaging projections with the first and second engaging grooves, respectively. Therefore, the workability during installation of the sealing member can be improved.

[0021] [4] In any one of the above [1] to [3], it is preferable that the first engaging projection and the second engaging projection have the same shape as each other. According to this configuration, when the sealing member is inverted around a virtual axis perpendicular to its central axis, the shapes of the sealing member before and after the inversion overlap. Therefore, the worker can accommodate the inverted sealing member in the receiving groove. Consequently, the versatility of the sealing member during installation can be increased.

[0022] [5] In any one of the above [1] to [4], it is preferable that the sealing member has a plurality of engagement portions provided at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction, and the receiving groove has a plurality of engaged portions provided at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0023] According to this configuration, the connector is provided with multiple engaging parts and multiple engaged parts, making it easier for workers to notice incorrect assembly of the sealing member. [6] In the above [5], it is preferable that the sealing member has two engagement portions located on opposite sides of the central axis of the sealing member and has a shape that is twice symmetric with respect to the central axis, and the receiving groove has two engaged portions located on opposite sides of the central axis.

[0024] According to this configuration, when the sealing member is inverted around its central axis, or around a virtual axis perpendicular to the central axis, the shapes of the sealing member before and after the inversion overlap. Therefore, the worker can accommodate the inverted sealing member in the receiving groove. Thus, the versatility of the sealing member during installation can be further enhanced.

[0025] [7] In any one of the above [1] to [6], it is preferable that a metal shield shell is provided that covers the outer circumference of the housing, and the sealing member is located outside the shield shell.

[0026] This configuration prevents the sealing member from being covered by the shield shell. Therefore, it becomes easier for the worker to confirm the presence and mounting position of the sealing member. [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure] Specific examples of the connectors of this disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, some parts of the configuration may be exaggerated or simplified for illustrative purposes. Also, the dimensional ratios of each part may differ in each drawing. This disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope of equivalence to the claims are intended. In this specification, "orthogonal" includes not only strictly orthogonal but also approximately orthogonal to the extent that the effects of this embodiment are achieved.

[0027] <First Embodiment> (Wire harness W1, W2 configuration) As shown in Figure 1, wire harnesses W1 and W2 are routed through vehicle V. Wire harness W1 electrically connects, for example, an electrical device M1, such as a motor located at the front of vehicle V, to a battery B located at the floor of vehicle V. Wire harness W2 electrically connects, for example, an electrical device M2, such as a motor located at the rear of vehicle V, to battery B.

[0028] A connector C1 is provided at the end of wire harness W1, which is connected to electrical equipment M1. A connector C2 is provided at the end of wire harness W2, which is connected to electrical equipment M2. The configurations of connector C1 and connector C2 may be the same or different. Electrical equipment M1 corresponds to the "connection target".

[0029] (Configuration of connector C1) As shown in Figure 2, the connector C1 is attached to the case 200 of the electrical device M1 with a portion of it inserted into the insertion hole 201 provided in the case 200.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, connector C1 comprises multiple terminals 10, multiple wires 20, a housing 30, a cover 70, and a shield shell 120. The multiple terminals 10 are arranged in parallel with each other. The multiple wires 20 are electrically connected to each of the multiple terminals 10. The housing 30 holds the multiple terminals 10 and the multiple wires 20. The cover 70 covers a portion of the housing 30. The shield shell 120 covers the cover 70 and a portion of the housing 30.

[0031] Connector C1, for example, has two terminals 10 and two wires 20. However, connector C1 may also have three or more terminals 10 and three or more wires 20. In each figure, the X-axis extends in the parallel direction of the two terminals 10. The Y-axis extends in the longitudinal direction of the electric wire 20. The Z-axis extends in the mounting direction between the case 200 of the electrical equipment M1 and the connector C1. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. Hereafter, the direction along the X-axis will be referred to as the X-axis direction, the direction along the Y-axis as the Y-axis direction, and the direction along the Z-axis as the Z-axis direction.

[0032] Connector C1 is attached to case 200 in a position where, for example, the X-axis direction and the vertical direction coincide. Note that the vertical direction of the paper in each figure does not necessarily coincide with the vertical direction.

[0033] (Configuration of terminal 10) As shown in Figure 4, the terminal 10 has a first extension portion 11, a second extension portion 12, and a third extension portion 13. The terminal 10 is, for example, plate-shaped. Examples of materials for the terminal 10 include metal materials such as iron-based, copper-based, or aluminum-based materials.

[0034] The first extension portion 11 extends in the Y-axis direction. The first extension portion 11 has a wire connection portion 14 that is electrically connected to the electric wire 20. The wire connection portion 14 is provided at the end of the first extension portion 11 in the Y-axis direction.

[0035] The second extension portion 12 extends in the Z-axis direction toward the case 200 from the end of the first extension portion 11 opposite to the wire connection portion 14. The third extension 13 extends from the end of the second extension 12 opposite to the first extension 11, in the direction of extension of the first extension 11, i.e., in the Y-axis direction, opposite to the first extension 11. The third extension 13 is located outside the housing 30.

[0036] The third extension portion 13 is provided with a bolt hole 13a that penetrates in the Z-axis direction. The third extension portion 13 is electrically connected to a mating terminal 210 located inside the case 200 by a bolt (not shown) inserted into the bolt hole 13a.

[0037] (Configuration of the 20 electric wires) The electric wire 20 has a core wire 21 and an insulating coating 22 that covers the outer circumference of the core wire 21. Examples of materials for the core wire 21 include metal materials such as copper-based or aluminum-based materials. Examples of materials for the insulating coating 22 include resin materials mainly composed of polyolefin resins such as cross-linked polyethylene or cross-linked polypropylene.

[0038] The core wire 21 is, for example, a stranded wire made by twisting together multiple metal wires. The cross-sectional shape of the core wire 21 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is, for example, circular. The core wire 21 is exposed from the insulating coating 22 at the end of the electric wire 20. The core wire 21 exposed from the insulating coating 22 is electrically connected to the wire connection portion 14 of the terminal 10, for example, by crimping.

[0039] (Housing 30 configuration) As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the housing 30 has a cylindrical portion 31 and a holding portion 43. Examples of materials for the housing 30 include resin materials such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0040] (Structure of the cylindrical part 31) The cylindrical portion 31 has an opening 32 through which two terminals 10 are exposed. The opening 32 penetrates the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction. The axial direction of the cylindrical portion 31 coincides with the Z-axis direction. The opening edge of the cylindrical portion 31 is elongated in the X-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0041] An interlock connector IC is provided inside the cylindrical portion 31. The interlock connector IC is provided in parallel with the two terminals 10 in the X-axis direction. The interlock connector IC electrically detects whether the housing 30 is connected to the insertion hole 201 of the case 200 in the correct position. When the housing 30 is connected to the case 200 in the correct position, the interlock connector IC is mated to a standby connector (not shown) located inside the case 200. The interlock connector IC and the standby connector constitute an interlock circuit. When the interlock connector IC is mated to the standby connector, that is, when the interlock circuit is closed, the connector C1 and the electrical device M1 become energized.

[0042] As shown in Figure 4, the cylindrical portion 31 has a first end 31a and a second end 31b located on opposite sides in the Z-axis direction. The first end 31a is the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 to which the cover 70 is attached. The second end 31b is the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 that is inserted into the insertion hole 201 of the case 200.

[0043] As shown in Figures 5 and 7, the cylindrical portion 31 has a first partition wall 33 and a second partition wall 34. The first partition wall 33 divides the inside of the cylindrical portion 31 between the two terminals 10 and the interlock connector IC. The first partition wall 33 extends in the Z-axis direction. The first partition wall 33 connects portions of the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 31 that are opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the inside of the cylindrical portion 31 is divided by the first partition wall 33 into a portion where the two terminals 10 are located and a portion where the interlock connector IC is located.

[0044] The second partition wall 34 partitions the inside of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction, specifically the portion where the interlock connector IC is located. The second partition wall 34 connects the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 31 to the first partition wall 33.

[0045] The second partition wall 34 is provided with an insertion hole 34a that penetrates in the Z-axis direction. An interlock connector IC is inserted into the insertion hole 34a. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the cylindrical portion 31 is provided with an insertion portion 35 that is inserted into the insertion hole 201 of the case 200. The insertion portion 35 is the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 that includes the second end portion 31b.

[0046] A first housing groove 36 is provided around the entire circumference of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 35. An annular first sealing member 50 is housed in the first housing groove 36. The first housing groove 36 corresponds to the "housing groove". The first sealing member 50 corresponds to the "sealing member".

[0047] The axial direction of the first sealing member 50 coincides with the Z-axis direction. Hereafter, the circumferential direction of the first sealing member 50 will simply be referred to as the circumferential direction. The first receiving groove 36 has a groove body 37 and two engaging portions 38A and 38B.

[0048] The groove body 37 forms an annular shape that extends around the entire circumference of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31. The two engaging portions 38A and 38B are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The two engaging portions 38A and 38B are located on opposite sides of the central axis of the first sealing member 50. The two engaging portions 38A and 38B are provided at one end and the other end of the groove body 37 in the X-axis direction, respectively.

[0049] Each engaged portion 38A, 38B includes a first engaging groove 39 and a second engaging groove 40. The first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 extend from the groove body 37 in opposite directions in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 extends from the groove body 37 toward the side where the first end portion 31a is located in the Z-axis direction. The second engaging groove 40 extends from the groove body 37 toward the side where the second end portion 31b is located in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 have the same shape as each other.

[0050] The first engagement groove 39 and the second engagement groove 40 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The first engagement groove 39 extends further in one circumferential direction than the second engagement groove 40. The second engagement groove 40 extends further in the other circumferential direction than the first engagement groove 39.

[0051] In this embodiment, "one direction in the circumferential direction" refers to the counterclockwise direction when viewing the cylindrical portion 31 from the first end 31a to the second end 31b in the Z-axis direction, and "the other direction in the circumferential direction" refers to the clockwise direction.

[0052] The first engagement groove 39 of the engaged portion 38A and the second engagement groove 40 of the engaged portion 38B are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction. The first engagement groove 39 of the engaged portion 38B and the second engagement groove 40 of the engaged portion 38A are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction.

[0053] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the cylindrical portion 31 has two fixing portions 41 that protrude from the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 31. The two fixing portions 41 protrude in opposite directions in directions that intersect both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the XY plane. Each fixing portion 41 is provided with a cylindrical metal collar 42. Each collar 42 penetrates in the Z-axis direction.

[0054] (Configuration of the holding part 43) As shown in Figure 4, the retaining portion 43 protrudes from the first end 31a of the cylindrical portion 31 towards the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 31, more specifically, to one side in the Y-axis direction. The retaining portion 43 holds the two terminals 10 and the two electric wires 20. The ends of the electric wires 20, the electric wire connection portion 14, and a portion of the first extension portion 11 are embedded in the retaining portion 43. The two terminals 10, the two electric wires 20, and the housing 30 are integrated by insert molding. Each electric wire 20 is drawn out from the retaining portion 43 to one side in the Y-axis direction.

[0055] A second housing groove 44 is provided around the entire circumference of the outer circumferential surface of the holding portion 43. An annular second sealing member 60 is housed in the second housing groove 44. (Rib 45 configuration) As shown in Figure 6, the housing 30 has a rib 45 that connects the outer surface of the retaining portion 43 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31. The rib 45 is provided on the side where the second end portion 31b is located when viewed from the retaining portion 43.

[0056] As shown in Figure 10, the rib 45 protrudes from the outer surface of the portion of the holding part 43 located between two adjacent terminals 10. That is, the rib 45 is located between the two terminals 10 in the X-axis direction.

[0057] As shown in Figure 5, the rib 45 is provided at a position offset to one side in the X-axis direction from the center of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 31 in the X-axis direction. The rib 45 is provided at a position that overlaps with the two wire connection portions 14 in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the rib 45 protrudes from the outer surface of the portion of the holding portion 43 located between the two adjacent wire connection portions 14.

[0058] The rib 45 has a recess 46. The recess 46 is recessed in the Z-axis direction from the second end 31b to the first end 31a. The cross-sectional shape of the recess 46 perpendicular to the Z-axis direction is, for example, a rectangle that is elongated in the Y-axis direction. This cross-sectional shape is the same throughout the entire recess 46 in the Z-axis direction. That is, the inner wall of the rib 45 that forms the recess 46 extends in the Z-axis direction around the entire circumference of the recess 46. As shown by the dashed line in Figure 11, the recess 46 is configured to allow insertion of the mold M used during injection molding of the housing 30.

[0059] The amount of protrusion of the retaining portion 43 from the outer surface of the rib 45 decreases as it moves away from the cylindrical portion 31 in the Y-axis direction. (Configuration of the first sealing member 50) As shown in Figure 12, the first sealing member 50 has a sealing body 51 and two engaging portions 52A and 52B.

[0060] The seal body 51 has a long annular shape in the X-axis direction. The seal body 51 has a lip that protrudes outward along its entire circumference. The seal body 51 is housed in the groove body 37 of the first housing groove 36.

[0061] The two engaging portions 52A and 52B are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The two engaging portions 52A and 52B are located on opposite sides of the central axis of the first seal member 50. The two engaging portions 52A and 52B are provided at one end and the other end of the seal body 51 in the X-axis direction, respectively.

[0062] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, each engaging portion 52A, 52B includes a first engaging projection 53 and a second engaging projection 54. The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 protrude from the seal body 51 in opposite directions in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 53 extends from the seal body 51 toward the side where the first end portion 31a is located in the Z-axis direction. The second engaging projection 54 extends from the seal body 51 toward the side where the second end portion 31b is located in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 have the same shape as each other.

[0063] The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 53 protrudes further in one circumferential direction than the second engaging projection 54. The second engaging projection 54 protrudes further in the other circumferential direction than the first engaging projection 53. The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 engage with the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40, respectively.

[0064] The first engaging projection 53 of the engaging portion 52A and the second engaging projection 54 of the engaging portion 52B are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction.

[0065] From the above, the first sealing member 50 has a shape that is 2:1 symmetry with respect to the X, Y, and Z axes, respectively. That is, when the first sealing member 50 is inverted with respect to the X, Y, and Z axes, the shapes of the first sealing member 50 before and after the inversion overlap with each other.

[0066] The first sealing member 50 is housed in the first housing groove 36, thereby sealing the space between the insertion portion 35 and the insertion hole 201 of the case 200. Since the insertion portion 35 is located outside the shield shell 120, the first sealing member 50 is also located outside the shield shell 120.

[0067] (Composition of cover 70) As shown in Figure 7, the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 from the first end 31a, thereby covering the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0068] As shown in Figure 13, the cover 70 has a cover body 80 and a breathable membrane 100. The material of the cover body 80 can be a resin material such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). The material of the breathable membrane 100 can be a porous resin material.

[0069] The cover body 80 has a lid portion 81 that covers the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31. The lid portion 81 has an elongated oval shape, which is elongated in the X-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction. A third housing groove 82 is provided around the entire circumference of the outer surface of the lid portion 81. An annular third sealing member 110 is housed in the third housing groove 82.

[0070] The lid portion 81 has a ventilation hole 81a that penetrates the lid portion 81 in the Z-axis direction. The ventilation hole 81a is located off-center from the center of the lid portion 81 in one direction in the X-axis direction. The ventilation membrane 100 covers the ventilation hole 81a from the side opposite to the two terminals 10 in the Z-axis direction (see Figure 7). The ventilation membrane 100 has a circular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction. The diameter of the ventilation membrane 100 is larger than the diameter of the ventilation hole 81a. The ventilation membrane 100 is fixed, for example, by welding to the lid portion 81.

[0071] The ventilation membrane 100 is configured to allow the passage of gases such as air, while preventing the passage of liquids such as water. The ventilation membrane 100 reduces the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0072] The ventilation hole 81a is provided with a partition portion 81b that divides the ventilation hole 81a in an X shape. The partition portion 81b of the ventilation hole 81a prevents the worker's fingers from touching the ventilation membrane 100 through the ventilation hole 81a.

[0073] As shown in Figure 7, a gap is provided in the Z-axis direction between the ventilation membrane 100 and the partition portion 81b. This gap makes it less likely for the ventilation membrane 100 to be blocked by the partition portion 81b, thus making it less likely for the passage of gas through the ventilation membrane 100 to be obstructed.

[0074] As shown in Figures 3 and 13, the cover portion 81 has a boss 83 that protrudes in the Z-axis direction on the side opposite to the two terminals 10. The boss 83 protrudes from the central part of the cover portion 81 in both the X-axis and Y-axis directions. The boss 83 is cylindrical with one end closed. The boss 83 is provided with a fastening hole into which a tap screw 170 with a washer is fastened. The fastening hole opens in the Z-axis direction on the side opposite to the two terminals 10.

[0075] The cover portion 81 has a first support projection 84 and a second support projection 85. Each support projection 84, 85 protrudes in the Z-axis direction away from the two terminals 10. The first support projection 84 and the second support projection 85 are located on opposite sides of the boss 83 in directions that intersect both the X-axis and Y-axis directions in the XY plane. The first support projection 84 is located in the Y-axis direction on the side where the retaining portion 43 is located, as viewed from the boss 83.

[0076] Each support projection 84, 85 is cylindrical in shape. The diameter of the first support projection 84 is smaller than the diameter of the second support projection 85. As shown in Figure 13, the lid portion 81 has an inner wall 86 and an outer wall 89 that project in the Z-axis direction, respectively. The inner wall 86 surrounds the outer periphery of the ventilation membrane 100. The outer wall 89 is located on the outer periphery side of the inner wall 86 and forms the outer edge of the cover body 80. That is, the outer wall 89 includes the outer edge of the cover body 80.

[0077] The end faces of the inner wall 86 and the outer wall 89 are flush in the Z-axis direction. The boss 83, the first support projection 84, and the second support projection 85 described above protrude beyond the end faces of the inner wall 86 and the outer wall 89 in the Z-axis direction.

[0078] The outer edge of the outer wall 89 is located on the outer side of the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31. The outer wall 89 covers the end face of the first end portion 31a of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction (see Figure 7). The inner wall 86 has an inner outlet 88 that connects the inside and outside of the inner wall 86 in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. The outer wall 89 has an outer outlet 90 that connects the inside and outside of the outer wall 89 in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. The inner outlet 88 and the outer outlet 90 are oriented in different directions from each other. The entire inner outlet 88 faces the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall 89. The entire outer outlet 90 faces the outer circumferential surface of the inner wall 86.

[0079] Hereafter, the virtual axis extending in the direction of communication of the inner discharge port 88 will be referred to as the first virtual axis L1, and the virtual axis extending in the direction of communication of the outer discharge port 90 will be referred to as the second virtual axis L2. The intersection point of the first virtual axis L1 and the second virtual axis L2 will be referred to as intersection point P.

[0080] As shown in Figure 14, the second virtual axis L2 extends in the X-axis direction. The first virtual axis L1 extends inclined with respect to the second virtual axis L2 in the XY plane. The angle α between the first virtual axis L1 and the second virtual axis L2 is acute.

[0081] The entire inner outlet 88 is located on the side of the intersection point P where the outer outlet 90 is located, in the axial direction of the second virtual axis L2, i.e., in the X-axis direction. In other words, the entire inner outlet 88 is located on the side of the third virtual axis L3, which extends in the Y-axis direction and passes through the intersection point P, where the outer outlet 90 is located.

[0082] If the outer outlet 90 is oriented towards the 6 o'clock position, it is preferable that the inner outlet 88 is oriented, for example, towards the region between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock in a clockwise direction. However, this excludes cases where the entire inner outlet 88 does not face the inner circumferential surface of the outer wall 89.

[0083] The inner wall 86 has a first edge 86a and a second edge 86b that form an inner outlet 88. The first edge 86a is located closer to the outer outlet 90 than the second edge 86b. The inner wall 86 is provided with a first extension portion 87a that extends including the first edge 86a, and a second extension portion 87b that extends including the second edge 86b. The first extension portion 87a and the second extension portion 87b are opposite each other.

[0084] Of the inner wall 86, the portion excluding the first extended portion 87a and the second extended portion 87b is, for example, in the shape of an arc along the outer edge of the ventilation membrane 100. The first extended portion 87a and the second extended portion 87b extend in a straight line, for example. The first extended portion 87a and the second extended portion 87b extend so that they approach each other as they move towards the inner discharge port 88.

[0085] The first extended portion 87a extends at an inclination with respect to the second virtual axis L2 such that it approaches the outer discharge port 90 in the axial direction of the second virtual axis L2, i.e., in the X-axis direction, as it approaches the first end edge 86a.

[0086] As shown in Figure 15, the cover 70 has a partition wall 91, an opposing wall 92, a first connecting wall 93, and a second connecting wall 94 that project from the lid portion 81 into the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 in the Z-axis direction.

[0087] The partition wall 91 is located between two adjacent terminals 10. The partition wall 91 extends over substantially the entire length of the lid portion 81 in the Y-axis direction. The portions of the two terminals 10 located inside the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31 are located on opposite sides of the partition wall 91. The partition wall 91 protrudes beyond the two terminals 10 in the Z-axis direction.

[0088] The opposing wall 92 is located on the opposite side of the partition wall 91, with one terminal 10 in between. The opposing wall 92 faces the partition wall 91 in the X-axis direction. The opposing wall 92 extends over substantially the entire length of the cover portion 81 in the Y-axis direction. The amount of the opposing wall 92 protruding from the cover portion 81 is less than the amount of the partition wall 91 protruding from the cover portion 81.

[0089] As shown in Figures 4 and 15, the first connecting wall 93 is located on the opposite side of the holding portion 43, with the terminal 10 in between. The first connecting wall 93 connects the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92. The amount of protrusion of the first connecting wall 93 from the cover portion 81 is the same as the amount of protrusion of the opposing wall 92 from the cover portion 81.

[0090] As shown in Figures 4 and 16, the second connecting wall 94 is located between the first connecting wall 93 and the second extension portion 12 of the terminal 10. The second connecting wall 94 connects the partition wall 91 and the opposing wall 92. The amount of the second connecting wall 94 protruding from the cover portion 81 is smaller than the amount of the first connecting wall 93 protruding from the cover portion 81. A gap is provided between the second connecting wall 94 and the terminal 10, extending across the entire length of the second connecting wall 94.

[0091] In this embodiment, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a state inverted about the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 relative to its normal orientation, the first connecting wall 93 is configured to restrict the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31 by contacting the first extending portion 11 of the terminal 10. In this embodiment, the amount of protrusion of the first connecting wall 93 from the lid portion 81 is greater than the distance from the lid portion 81 to the first extending portion 11 in the Z-axis direction. As a result, when the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in the inverted state described above, the first connecting wall 93 will come into contact with the first extending portion 11.

[0092] As shown in Figures 7 and 15, the cover 70 has a housing portion 95 that protrudes from the lid portion 81 into the interior of the cylindrical portion 31 and accommodates one end of the interlock connector IC. The housing portion 95 is cylindrical with one end closed.

[0093] The amount of protrusion of the housing section 95 from the lid section 81 is smaller than the respective protrusion amounts of the partition wall 91, the opposing wall 92, the first connecting wall 93, and the second connecting wall 94 from the lid section 81, and is larger than the distance from the lid section 81 to the first extension 11 of the terminal 10 in the Z-axis direction.

[0094] Here, in the case where the cover 70 does not have the first connecting wall 93, and the cover 70 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 31 in a state where it is inverted about the central axis of the cylindrical portion 31 relative to its normal orientation, the housing portion 95 is provided in a position where it can contact the first extending portion 11 of the terminal 10. That is, when the cover 70 does not have the first connecting wall 93, the housing portion 95 is configured to restrict the insertion of the cover 70 into the cylindrical portion 31 by contacting the terminal 10.

[0095] A shorting pin (not shown) is provided inside the housing section 95. When the interlock connector IC is housed in the housing section 95, two terminals (not shown) provided inside the interlock connector IC are electrically connected via the shorting pin. This makes the circuit inside the interlock connector IC conductive.

[0096] (Configuration of Shield Shell 120) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the shield shell 120 has a first shell 130, a second shell 140, and a third shell 150. Examples of materials for each shell 130, 140, and 150 include iron-based or aluminum-based metal materials.

[0097] (Configuration of the first shell 130) As shown in Figure 3, the first shell 130 has a first portion 131 and a second portion 135. The first portion 131 covers the outer circumference of the portion of the cylindrical portion 31 opposite to the insertion portion 35. The second portion 135 covers the outer circumference of a part of the retaining portion 43. The first portion 131 and the second portion 135 open toward the case 200 in the Z-axis direction.

[0098] The first part 131 has an opening 132 into which the cylindrical part 31 is inserted. The opening 132 is oval in shape, elongated in the X-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction. As shown in Figure 17, the first part 131 covers the outer discharge port 90 of the cover body 80 from the outer periphery side of the outer wall 89.

[0099] As shown in Figure 3, the first portion 131 has two fixing protrusions 133 that project outward from the outer circumference of the opening 132. Each fixing protrusion 133 is provided with a screw hole 133a that penetrates in the Z-axis direction.

[0100] The first part 131 has two fixing portions 134 that protrude outward from the outer circumference of the opening 132. The two fixing portions 134 are located at positions corresponding to each of the two fixing portions 41 of the housing 30. Each fixing portion 134 is provided with a through hole 134a that penetrates in the Z-axis direction. The through hole 134a communicates with a collar 42 provided in the fixing portion 41. As shown in Figure 2, the connector C1 is fixed to the case 200 by fastening bolts (not shown) inserted into the fixing portions 134 and 41 to threaded holes 202 provided in the case 200.

[0101] As shown in Figure 3, the second portion 135 has a projection 136 that protrudes in the Z-axis direction on the side opposite to the holding portion 43. The projection 136 is provided with a screw hole 136a that penetrates in the Y-axis direction.

[0102] (Configuration of the second shell 140) The second shell 140 is cylindrical in shape. The second shell 140 covers the outer circumference of the portion of the retaining part 43 that is not covered by the second part 135.

[0103] The second shell 140 has a projection 141 that protrudes in the Z-axis direction on the side opposite to the retaining portion 43. The projection 141 is provided with a through hole 141a that penetrates in the Y-axis direction. The second shell 140 is fixed to the first shell 130 by fastening a bolt 160 inserted into the through hole 141a to the threaded hole 136a of the first shell 130.

[0104] Although not shown in the diagram, a metal braided member that covers both electric wires 20 together is attached to the outer surface of the second shell 140 by a crimping ring. (Configuration of the 3rd shell 150) The third shell 150 is a flat plate extending in the XY plane. The third shell 150 covers the opening 32 of the cylindrical portion 31 and the opening 132 of the first shell 130. As a result, the cover 70 is covered by the third shell 150 from the side opposite to the case 200 in the Z-axis direction.

[0105] As shown in Figure 7, the third shell 150 is in contact with the end faces in the Z-axis direction of the inner wall 86 and outer wall 89 of the cover body 80. As shown in Figure 3, the third shell 150 has two through holes 151 that communicate with the two threaded holes 133a of the first shell 130. The third shell 150 is fixed to the first shell 130 by bolts (not shown) inserted into each through hole 151.

[0106] The third shell 150 has a boss insertion hole 152 into which the boss 83 of the cover 70 is inserted. The diameter of the boss insertion hole 152 is larger than the diameter of the boss 83. The diameter of the boss insertion hole 152 is smaller than the diameter of the washer for the tap screw 170 described above. As shown in Figure 4, a gap is provided in the Z-axis direction between the washer and the third shell 150.

[0107] As shown in Figure 3, the third shell 150 has a first insertion hole 153 and a second insertion hole 154 into which the first support projection 84 and the second support projection 85 are inserted, respectively. The diameter of the first insertion hole 153 is larger than the diameter of the first support projection 84. The diameter of the second insertion hole 154 is larger than the diameter of the second support projection 85.

[0108] As described above, gaps are provided between the boss 83 and the boss insertion hole 152, between the first support projection 84 and the first insertion hole 153, and between the second support projection 85 and the second insertion hole 154. The third shell 150 is configured to swing within the range of these gaps in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction relative to the cover 70. This allows the worker to easily align the through hole 151 and the screw hole 133a.

[0109] The operation and effects of this embodiment will now be described. (1-1) The first seal member 50 has a seal body 51 and engaging portions 52A and 52B including a first engaging projection 53 and a second engaging projection 54 that project from the seal body 51 in opposite directions in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 53 protrudes further in one direction in the circumferential direction than the second engaging projection 54. The second engaging projection 54 protrudes further in the other direction in the circumferential direction than the first engaging projection 53. The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 35 is provided with a first housing groove 36 in which the first seal member 50 is housed. The first housing groove 36 has a groove body 37 and an engaged portion 38A including a first engaging groove 39 and a second engaging groove 40 that extend from the groove body 37 in opposite directions in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging groove 39 extends further in one direction in the circumferential direction than the second engaging groove 40. The second engagement groove 40 extends in the other circumferential direction compared to the first engagement projection 53.

[0110] In this configuration, the first engaging projection 53 protrudes more than the second engaging projection 54 in one circumferential direction, and the second engaging projection 54 protrudes more than the first engaging projection 53 in the other circumferential direction. Furthermore, the first engaging groove 39 extends more than the second engaging groove 40 in one circumferential direction, and the second engaging groove 40 extends more than the first engaging groove 39 in the other circumferential direction.

[0111] Therefore, when the first sealing member 50 is attached to another housing in which the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40, which have the same shape as each other, are provided at the same position in the circumferential direction, the first sealing member 50 becomes less likely to engage with the other housing. In other words, the first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 of the first sealing member 50 become less likely to engage with the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 of the other housing, respectively. As a result, workers can more easily notice if the first sealing member 50 has been incorrectly assembled to the other housing.

[0112] Furthermore, when another sealing member having a first engaging projection 53 and a second engaging projection 54 having the same shape and positioned at the same location in the circumferential direction is attached to the housing 30, it becomes more difficult for the other sealing member to engage with the housing 30. In other words, the first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 of the other sealing member become less likely to engage with the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40 of the housing 30, respectively. This makes it easier for the worker to notice if the other sealing member has been incorrectly assembled to the housing 30.

[0113] From the above, it is possible to prevent the first sealing member 50 from being incorrectly assembled to a housing other than the housing 30. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a sealing member other than the first sealing member 50 from being incorrectly assembled to the housing 30.

[0114] (1-2) The engaging portion 52A and the engaging portion 52B are provided at one end and the other end of the seal body 51 in the X-axis direction, respectively. The engaged portion 38A and the engaged portion 38B are provided at one end and the other end of the groove body 37 in the X-axis direction, respectively.

[0115] During injection molding of the housing 30, the removal direction of the portion of the mold M used to form the holding portion 43 may coincide with the Z-axis direction. Here, the engaged portions 38A and 38B of the first receiving groove 36 extend from the groove body 37 in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the exit direction of the mold M that forms the engaged portions 38A and 38B is in the direction away from the engaged portions 38A and 38B towards the outer circumference of the groove body 37, that is, one and the other in the X-axis direction.

[0116] According to the above configuration, the engaged portion 38A and the engaged portion 38B are provided at one end and the other end of the groove body 37 in the X-axis direction, respectively. Therefore, the withdrawal direction of the mold M that forms the engaged portions 38A and 38B can be made to coincide with the X-axis direction. This prevents interference between the part of the mold M that forms the holding portion 43 and the part that forms the engaged portions 38A and 38B when the mold M is opened. Consequently, a decrease in the moldability of the housing 30 can be prevented. In addition, the complexity of the structure of the mold M that forms the housing 30 can be prevented.

[0117] (1-3) The central part of the first engaging projection 53 in the circumferential direction is located at a position that overlaps with the second engaging projection 54 in the Z-axis direction. The central part of the second engaging projection 54 in the circumferential direction is located at a position that overlaps with the first engaging projection 53 in the Z-axis direction.

[0118] With this configuration, the length of the portion of the first engaging projection 53 that protrudes beyond the second engaging projection 54 on one side in the circumferential direction, and the length of the portion of the second engaging projection 54 that protrudes beyond the first engaging projection 53 on the other side in the circumferential direction, are kept from becoming excessive. As a result, both ends of the engaging portion 52A or engaging portion 52B in the circumferential direction are more easily visible to the worker at the same time, making it easier for the worker to engage the first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 with the first engaging groove 39 and the second engaging groove 40, respectively. Therefore, the workability when installing the first sealing member 50 can be improved.

[0119] (1-4) The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 have the same shape as each other. With this configuration, when the first sealing member 50 is inverted around a virtual axis perpendicular to the central axis of the first sealing member 50, the shapes of the first sealing member 50 before and after the inversion overlap. Therefore, the worker can accommodate the inverted first sealing member 50 in the first housing groove 36. Thus, the versatility of the first sealing member 50 during installation can be increased.

[0120] (1-5) The first sealing member 50 has two engaging portions 52A and 52B that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The first receiving groove 36 has two engaged portions 38A and 38B that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0121] With this configuration, the connector C1 is provided with two engaging portions 52A, 52B and two engaged portions 38A, 38B, making it easier for the worker to notice if the first sealing member 50 has been assembled incorrectly.

[0122] (1-6) The first sealing member 50 has a shape that is twice as symmetric with respect to the central axis of the first sealing member 50 as the axis of symmetry. With this configuration, when the first sealing member 50 is inverted around its central axis, or around a virtual axis perpendicular to its central axis, the shapes of the first sealing member 50 before and after the inversion overlap. Therefore, the worker can accommodate the inverted first sealing member 50 in the first housing groove 36. Thus, the versatility of the first sealing member 50 during installation can be further enhanced.

[0123] (1-7) The first sealing member 50 is located outside the shield shell 120. This configuration prevents the first sealing member 50 from being covered by the shield shell 120. Therefore, it becomes easier for the worker to confirm the presence and mounting position of the first sealing member 50.

[0124] <Second Embodiment> The connector of the second embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the connector of the first embodiment.

[0125] In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in the first embodiment, and for components corresponding to those in the first embodiment, the reference numeral "3**" is used by adding "300" to the reference numeral "**" of the first embodiment, thereby omitting redundant explanations.

[0126] The connector in the second embodiment is connector C2, which is connected to electrical equipment M2 of vehicle V shown in Figure 1. M2 is an example of a "connection target". Connector C1 has the same configuration as the connector in the first embodiment.

[0127] (Configuration of connector C2) As shown in Figure 18, the connector C2 is attached to the case 205 of the electrical equipment M2 with its insertion portion 335 inserted into the insertion hole 206 provided in the case 205.

[0128] The outer dimensions of the insertion portion 335 of connector C2 are smaller than, for example, the outer dimensions of the insertion portion 35 of connector C1. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the first engagement groove 339 and the second engagement groove 340 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The first engagement groove 339 extends further in the other circumferential direction than the second engagement groove 340. The second engagement groove 340 extends further in one circumferential direction than the first engagement groove 339. In other words, the first engagement groove 339 is offset to the other circumferential direction relative to the second engagement groove 340.

[0129] In this embodiment, "one direction in the circumferential direction" refers to the counterclockwise direction when viewing the cylindrical portion 331 from the first end 331a to the second end 331b in the Z-axis direction, and "the other direction in the circumferential direction" refers to the clockwise direction.

[0130] The first engagement groove 339 of the engaged portion 338A and the second engagement groove 340 of the engaged portion 338B are located at the same position in the Y-axis direction.

[0131] As shown in Figure 20, the outer shape of the seal body 351 of the first seal member 350 is smaller than, for example, the outer shape of the seal body 51 in the connector C1. The first engaging projection 353 and the second engaging projection 354 of the first sealing member 350 are positioned to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The central part of the first engaging projection 353 in the circumferential direction is positioned to overlap with the second engaging projection 354 in the Z-axis direction. The central part of the second engaging projection 354 in the circumferential direction is positioned to overlap with the first engaging projection 353 in the Z-axis direction. The first engaging projection 353 protrudes further in the other direction in the circumferential direction than the second engaging projection 354. The second engaging projection 354 protrudes further in one direction in the circumferential direction than the first engaging projection 353. In other words, the first engaging projection 353 is biased toward the other direction in the circumferential direction relative to the second engaging projection 354. The first engaging projection 353 and the second engaging projection 354 engage with the first engaging groove 339 and the second engaging groove 340, respectively.

[0132] From the above, it can be concluded that in connector C2, the direction in which the first engagement groove 339 is biased relative to the second engagement groove 340 is opposite to that of connector C1 in the circumferential direction. Similarly, in connector C2, the direction in which the first engagement projection 353 is biased relative to the second engagement projection 354 is opposite to that of connector C1 in the circumferential direction.

[0133] The operation and effects of this embodiment will now be described. The connector of the second embodiment can provide the same functions and effects as the connector of the first embodiment, as well as the following additional functions and effects.

[0134] (2-1) The direction in which the first engagement groove 339 is biased relative to the second engagement groove 340 in connector C2 is different from the direction in which the first engagement groove 39 is biased relative to the second engagement groove 40 in connector C1. The direction in which the first engagement projection 353 is biased relative to the second engagement projection 354 in connector C2 is different from the direction in which the first engagement projection 53 is biased relative to the second engagement projection 54 in connector C1.

[0135] For example, if the outer shape of the insertion portion 35 of connector C1 and the outer shape of the insertion portion 335 of connector C2 are the same or slightly different, then the outer shapes of the seal bodies 51 and 351 of the first seal members 50 and 350 in connectors C1 and C2 will also be the same or slightly different. In this case, at a workplace where both connectors C1 and C2 are manufactured, it becomes difficult for workers to visually confirm which of the first seal members 50 and 350 is the correct seal member to be used in connectors C1 and C2. Therefore, there is a risk that the first seal member 50 and the first seal member 350 may be incorrectly assembled into the second connector C2 and the first connector C1, respectively.

[0136] In this regard, with the above configuration, when an operator attempts to attach the first sealing member 350 of connector C2 to connector C1, the engaging protrusions 353 and 354 of the first sealing member 350 interfere with the engaging grooves 39 and 40 of connector C1. Similarly, when an operator attempts to attach the first sealing member 50 of connector C1 to connector C2, the engaging protrusions 53 and 54 of the first sealing member 50 interfere with the engaging grooves 339 and 340 of connector C2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first sealing member 50 and the first sealing member 350 from being incorrectly assembled to the second connector C2 and the first connector C1, respectively.

[0137] <Example of changes> This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0138] The first sealing member 50 may be covered by the shield shell 120. The two engaging portions 52A and 52B may be provided at unequal intervals in the circumferential direction. In this case, the two engaged portions 38A and 38B may be provided at positions corresponding to the two engaging portions 52A and 52B, respectively.

[0139] The number of engaging portions in the first sealing member 50 and the number of engaged portions in the first housing groove 36 may be one each, or three or more each. The first engaging projection 53 and the second engaging projection 54 may have different shapes from each other.

[0140] The central portion of the first engaging projection 53 in the circumferential direction may be positioned so as not to overlap with the second engaging projection 54 in the Z-axis direction. The central portion of the second engaging projection 54 in the circumferential direction may be provided in a position that does not overlap with the first engaging projection 53 in the Z-axis direction.

[0141] The two engaging portions 52A and 52B may be provided at one end and the other end of the seal body 51 in the Y-axis direction, respectively. In this case, the two engaged portions 38A and 38B may be provided at one end and the other end of the groove body 37 in the Y-axis direction, respectively. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] α angle B Battery C1, C2 connectors IC Interlock Connector L1 First virtual axis L2 Second virtual axis L3 Third virtual axis M mold M1 Electrical equipment (to be connected) M2 Electrical Equipment P intersection V Vehicle W1, W2 Wire Harness 10 terminals 11 1st extension part 12 Second extension part 13 Third extension part 13a Bolt hole 14. Wire connection section 20 Electric wire 21 core wires 22 Insulating coating 30 Housing 31 Cylindrical part 31a First end 31b Second end 32 Aperture 33. First partition wall 34. Second partition wall 34a Insertion hole 35 Insertion part 36. First storage groove (storage groove) 37 Groove body 38A, 38B Engaged part 39 First engagement groove 40 Second engagement groove 41 Fixed part 42 colors 43 Holding part 44. Second storage groove 45 Ribs 46 recess 50 First sealing member (sealing member) 51 Sticker body 52A,52B Engagement part 53 1st engagement protrusion 54 Second engagement protrusion 60 Second sealing member 70 Cover 80 Cover body 81 Lid 81a Ventilation holes 81b Partition 82 Third storage groove 83 Boss 84 1st support protrusion 85 Second support protrusion 86 Inner wall 86a 1st edge 86b 2nd edge 87a 1st extension part 87b 2nd extension 88 Inner outlet 89 Exterior Wall 90 Outer outlet 91 Bulkhead 92 Opposing wall 93 1st connecting wall 94 2nd connecting wall 95 Accommodation 100 breathable membrane 110 Third sealing member 120 Shield Shell 130 First Shell 131 Part 1 132 Aperture 133 Fixed protrusion 133a Threaded hole 134 Fixed part 134a Through hole 135 Part 2 136 Protrusion 136a Threaded hole 140 Second Shell 141 Protrusion 141a Through hole 150 Third Shell 151 Through hole 152 Boss insertion hole 153 First insertion hole 154 Second insertion hole 160 volts 170 tap screws 200 cases 201 Insertion hole 202 screw holes 205 cases 206 Insertion hole 210 Mating terminal 330 Housing 331 Cylindrical part 331a First end 331b Second end 335 Insertion part 336 First storage groove (storage groove) 337 Groove body 338A, 338B Engaged part 339 First engagement groove 340 Second engagement groove 350 First sealing member (sealing member) 351 Sticker body 352A,352B Engagement part 353 1st engagement protrusion 354 2nd engagement protrusion

Claims

1. A connector that is inserted into an insertion hole provided in the object to be connected, Multiple terminals arranged in parallel, Multiple wires connected to each of the aforementioned multiple terminals, A resin housing having an insertion portion that is inserted into the insertion hole, and holding the plurality of terminals and the plurality of electric wires, The insertion portion is fitted to the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion and comprises an annular sealing member that prevents water from entering between the insertion portion and the insertion hole, When the circumferential and axial directions of the sealing member are simply defined as the circumferential and axial directions, The sealing member is The seal body forms a ring, The seal body has an engaging portion including a first engaging projection and a second engaging projection that protrude from each other in the axial direction, The first engaging projection and the second engaging projection are provided in positions that overlap each other when viewed from the axial direction. The first engaging projection protrudes more than the second engaging projection in one of the circumferential directions. The second engaging projection protrudes more than the first engaging projection in the other direction in the circumferential direction. The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion is provided with a housing groove in which the sealing member is housed. The aforementioned consultation groove is The groove body in which the seal body is housed, The groove body extends from the groove body in opposite directions in the axial direction and includes an engaged portion which includes a first engaging groove and a second engaging groove into which the first engaging projection and the second engaging projection are engaged, respectively. The first engagement groove extends further in one direction in the circumferential direction than the second engagement groove. The second engagement groove extends in the other direction in the circumferential direction compared to the first engagement projection. connector.

2. The housing has a cylindrical portion having the insertion portion, and a holding portion that protrudes from the cylindrical portion toward the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion and holds the plurality of terminals and the plurality of electric wires. When the direction perpendicular to both the axial direction and the protruding direction of the holding portion is defined as the orthogonal direction, The engagement portion is provided at one end of the seal body in the orthogonal direction, The engaged portion is provided at one end of the groove body in the orthogonal direction. The connector according to claim 1.

3. The central portion of the first engaging projection in the circumferential direction is provided in a position that overlaps with the second engaging projection when viewed from the axial direction. The central portion of the second engaging projection in the circumferential direction is provided in a position that overlaps with the first engaging projection when viewed from the axial direction. The connector according to claim 1.

4. The first engaging projection and the second engaging projection have the same shape as each other. The connector according to claim 1.

5. The sealing member has a plurality of engagement portions provided at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction, The receiving groove has a plurality of engagement portions that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The connector according to claim 1.

6. The sealing member has two engagement portions located on opposite sides of the central axis of the sealing member, and has a shape that is twice symmetrical with respect to the central axis. The receiving groove has two of the engaging portions located on opposite sides of the central axis. The connector according to claim 5.

7. The housing is equipped with a metal shield shell that covers the outer circumference, The sealing member is located outside the shield shell. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

Images