Terminal block

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to make it possible to maintain the sealing properties of a gasket for a longer time, and obtain good sealing properties even in a case in which a terminal block is inclined. The terminal block is to be fixed to an attachment target including an attachment hole, the terminal block comprising: a terminal that includes a first end, a second end, and a terminal intermediate portion between the first and second ends; a block body that includes an insertion portion that is to be inserted into the attachment hole, the block body being fixed to the attachment target in a state in which the insertion portion is inserted into the attachment hole; and a gasket that is interposed between the insertion portion and the attachment hole in a state in which the block body is fixed to the attachment target, wherein the block body holds the terminal in a state of covering the terminal intermediate portion, an outer circumferential surface of the gasket includes a tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually becomes smaller with progression in an insertion direction into the attachment hole, and the tapered outer circumferential surface has a curved surface that is outwardly convex in a cross-section along the insertion direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a terminal block.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a terminal block including a housing for waterproof insertion of a terminal, an annular packing provided on the surface of the housing facing the adherend, and an upper cover for pressing the packing against the adherend through the housing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, it is desired to further maintain the sealing performance by the packing for a longer period. Also, it is desired to obtain good sealing performance even when the terminal block is tilted around the screw fastening portion.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to further maintain the sealing performance by the packing for a longer period and to obtain good sealing performance even when the terminal block is tilted.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The terminal block of this disclosure is a terminal block fixed to a mounting object having a mounting hole, comprising: a terminal including a first end, a second end, and a terminal intermediate portion between the first end and the second end; a base body including an insertion portion that is inserted into the mounting hole, the base body being fixed to the mounting object with the insertion portion inserted into the mounting hole; and a packing interposed between the insertion portion and the mounting hole with the base body fixed to the mounting object, wherein the base body holds the terminal while covering the terminal intermediate portion, the outer circumferential surface of the packing includes a tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion into the mounting hole, and the tapered outer circumferential surface has a curved surface that is convex outward in a cross section along the insertion direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, the sealing performance provided by the packing can be maintained for an even longer period of time, and good sealing performance can be obtained even if the terminal block is tilted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a terminal block and mounting object according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the terminal block before installation on the target object. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a terminal block. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the packing. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the contact state between the curved surface of the packing and the tapered inner surface of the mounting hole. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the contact state between the curved surface of the packing and the tapered inner surface of the mounting hole when the terminal block is tilted. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified terminal block. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] [Description of Embodiments in this Disclosure] First, the embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described.

[0010] The terminal block of this disclosure is as follows:

[0011] (1) A terminal block to be fixed to a mounting object having a mounting hole, comprising: a terminal including a first end, a second end, and a terminal intermediate portion between the first end and the second end; a base body including an insertion portion that is inserted into the mounting hole, the base body being fixed to the mounting object with the insertion portion inserted into the mounting hole; and a packing interposed between the insertion portion and the mounting hole with the base body fixed to the mounting object, wherein the base body holds the terminal while covering the terminal intermediate portion, the outer circumferential surface of the packing includes a tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion into the mounting hole, and the tapered outer circumferential surface has a curved surface that is convex outward in a cross section along the insertion direction.

[0012] According to this disclosure, the outer circumferential surface of the packing includes a tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion into the mounting hole. Therefore, when the insertion part and packing are inserted into the mounting hole, the packing can be interposed between the insertion part and the mounting hole in a compressed state in a direction intersecting the direction of insertion into the mounting hole. The repulsive force due to this compression acts in a direction intersecting the direction of insertion into the mounting hole and can be received by the insertion part and its internal terminals. As a result, the base body is less susceptible to creep deformation, and the sealing performance by the packing can be maintained for an even longer period of time.

[0013] Furthermore, the tapered outer surface has a curved surface that is convex outward in a cross-section along the insertion direction. Therefore, even if the terminal block is tilted when mounted on the object, the curved surface can stably contact the inner surface of the mounting hole, resulting in good sealing performance.

[0014] (2) The terminal block of (1), wherein the packing includes a pair of long side portions arranged in parallel with a gap therebetween, and a pair of short side portions connecting both ends of the pair of long side portions, and the length dimension of the packing in the extending direction of the pair of long side portions is larger than the width dimension of the packing in the direction connecting the pair of long side portions, and the curved surface may be formed on each outer surface of the pair of long side portions.

[0015] When the packing has a configuration including a pair of long side portions arranged in parallel with a gap therebetween and a pair of short side portions connecting both ends of the pair of long side portions, the terminal block may be likely to tilt about the direction along the pair of long side portions. Therefore, by adopting a configuration in which a curved surface is formed on each outer peripheral surface of the pair of long side portions, when the terminal block tilts in the direction in which it is likely to tilt, the curved surface can stably contact the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole.

[0016] (3) The terminal block of (1) or (2), wherein the curved surface has a first curved surface and a second curved surface located on the opposite side of the first curved surface, and the first curved surface and the second curved surface may be located on the same virtual circumference.

[0017] In this way, when the first curved surface and the second curved surface are located on the same virtual circumference, when the terminal block tilts, the contact state between the first curved surface and the second curved surface with respect to the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole becomes stable.

[0018] (4) The terminal block according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the curved surface may include an outer peripheral surface of a cylindrical portion having the rocking axis of the base body with respect to the mounting object as the center of curvature.

[0019] Thereby, when the terminal block rocks around the rocking axis, the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion can stably contact the inner peripheral surface of the mounting hole.

[0020] (5) The terminal block of (4), wherein the center of curvature of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion may be located on a straight line passing through the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion with respect to the mounting object.

[0021] In this way, when the terminal block swings with a pivot axis that passes through the fixing point of the first fixing part and the fixing point of the second fixing part, the outer surface of the cylindrical part can stably contact the inner surface of the mounting hole.

[0022] (6) Any one of the terminal blocks from (1) to (5), wherein the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion may include a pressing tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion.

[0023] In this case, by pushing the terminal block into the mounting hole and pressing the tapered outer surface of the insertion part against the inner surface of the packing, the packing is easily compressed in a direction intersecting the insertion direction into the mounting hole.

[0024] (7)(6) The terminal block, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion includes an end portion that is continuous with respect to the insertion direction tapered outer circumferential surface and on the tip side in the insertion direction, and the same shape continues along the insertion direction, and the inner circumferential surface of the packing includes an outer end portion that is continuous with respect to the insertion direction on the outer circumferential side of the end portion, and the outer end portion of the packing may be in a state in which the end portion is tightened by its own elastic force.

[0025] This makes it easier to hold the packing in place so that it does not fall out of the insertion area.

[0026] (8) Any one of the terminal blocks from (1) to (7), wherein the packing may include a plurality of annular ribs that extend circumferentially on its inner circumference and are aligned along the insertion direction.

[0027] In this case, with the insertion portion inserted into the mounting hole, the packing can be elastically deformed to crush multiple annular ribs. This allows the packing to be sufficiently elastically deformed even if there are manufacturing or assembly errors.

[0028] (9)(8) is a terminal block in which the curved surface may be gentler than the inner surface formed by the plurality of annular ribs.

[0029] In this case, the packing can be significantly elastically deformed by the multiple annular ribs on its inner circumference. If the curved surface of the outer circumference of the packing is formed more smoothly than the inner circumference of the packing, it is easier to press the outer circumference of the packing against the inner surface of the mounting hole along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole, even if there is a partial recess on the inner surface of the mounting hole. This allows for good sealing between the mounting hole and the packing.

[0030] (10) A terminal block of any one of (1) to (9), wherein the block body includes a fixing portion connected to the base end side of the insertion portion and fastened and fixed to the object to be mounted on the outside of the insertion portion.

[0031] By fastening the above-mentioned fixing part to the object to be attached, the insertion part can be kept pressed into the mounting hole.

[0032] [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure] Specific examples of the terminal blocks of this disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope of the claims as indicated by the claims.

[0033] [Embodiment] The terminal block according to the embodiment will be described below.

[0034] <Regarding the overall configuration of the terminal block and the object to be mounted> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the terminal block 20 attached to the mounting target 10. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the terminal block 20 before attachment to the mounting target 10. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the terminal block 20, and Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal block 20. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the packing 50. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in Figure 1.

[0035] The terminal block 20 is mounted on a mounting object 10 having mounting holes 12. The mounting object 10 is, for example, part of a case that houses electrical components. The case covers the electrical components in a sealed state, protecting them from the external atmosphere. For this reason, it is desirable to seal the space between the mounting holes 12 and the terminal block 20.

[0036] The mounting target 10 is formed in a plate shape. A mounting hole 12 is formed so as to penetrate the mounting target 10. In this embodiment, the mounting hole 12 is formed in an elongated shape. An elongated hole is a long, narrow circular hole, for example, a rectangular hole with both ends in the longitudinal direction formed as semicircular holes or an elliptical hole. One side opening of the mounting hole 12 is the insertion side opening into which a part of the terminal block 20 is inserted, and the opposite side opening is the back side opening. For example, the insertion side opening of the mounting hole 12 is the outer opening of the case. The mounting target 10 may be a metal member formed by casting.

[0037] The mounting hole 12 includes a portion formed on a tapered inner circumferential surface 13 that gradually narrows from the insertion-side opening towards the rear-side opening. In this embodiment, the portion of the mounting hole 12 closer to the insertion-side opening is formed on the tapered inner circumferential surface 13, while the portion of the mounting hole 12 closer to the rear-side opening is formed in a shape where the same opening shape is continuous. The tapered inner circumferential surface 13 may also be the portion of the mounting hole 12 where the edge of the insertion-side opening is chamfered.

[0038] A pair of screw holes 14 are formed on the mounting target 10 at a position on the longitudinal outer side of the mounting hole 12. A guide hole 15 is formed on the mounting target 10 at a position offset in the short direction from the longitudinal outer side of the mounting hole 12.

[0039] The terminal block 20 comprises terminals 22, a base body 30, and a packing 50. The base body 30 is fixed to the mounting target 10 with the terminals 22 held by the base body 30. In this state, the terminals 22 protrude from both sides of the mounting hole 12. Electrical components on one side of the mounting target 10 and electrical components on the other side can be electrically connected via the terminals 22. The packing 50 is interposed between the base body 30 and the mounting hole 12. The packing 50 seals the gap between the base body 30 and the mounting hole 12.

[0040] <About terminal blocks> Let me explain terminal block 20 in more detail.

[0041] The terminal 22 is a conductive member including a first end 23, a second end 24, and a terminal intermediate portion 25 (see Figure 6) between the first end 23 and the second end 24. The terminal 22 is made of, for example, an elongated metal plate. The terminal intermediate portion 25 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The first end 23 is connected to one end of the terminal intermediate portion 25, and the second end 24 is connected to the other end. Holes for fastening and fixing are formed in the first end 23 and the second end 24. The terminal may be curved in the thickness direction or the width direction. The terminal may be a combination of multiple parts.

[0042] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the terminal block 20 has three terminals 22. However, the number of terminals provided by the terminal block is arbitrary and is not limited to this example.

[0043] The base body 30 is an insulating member formed of resin or the like. The base body 30 includes an insertion portion 32 that is inserted into the mounting hole 12. In this embodiment, the base body 30 comprises the insertion portion 32, a first terminal holding portion 36, a second terminal holding portion 38, and a fixing portion 40. The base body 30 is, for example, a part integrally molded from the same resin. For example, the base body 30 may be molded with the terminal as the insert portion.

[0044] The insertion portion 32 is the part of the mounting hole 12 that is inserted into the tapered inner circumferential surface 13. The insertion portion 32 is formed in a shape that gradually becomes smaller from the base end to the tip end, in accordance with the tapered shape of the tapered inner circumferential surface 13. When the insertion portion 32 is positioned within the tapered inner circumferential surface 13, an annular space is formed between the insertion portion 32 and the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 in which the packing 50 can be placed.

[0045] The first terminal holding portion 36 is a portion that protrudes from the tip of the insertion portion 32. In this embodiment, the first terminal holding portion 36 is formed in the shape of a thin rectangular parallelepiped. The second terminal holding portion 38 is a portion that protrudes from the base end of the insertion portion 32. In this embodiment, the second terminal holding portion 38 is formed in the shape of a thin rectangular parallelepiped. The base body 30 holds the terminal 22 with the terminal intermediate portion 25 covering it. In this embodiment, the terminal intermediate portion 25 penetrates from the first terminal holding portion 36 through the insertion portion 32 to the second terminal holding portion 38. Multiple terminal intermediate portions 25 are arranged in parallel with spacing between them within the base body 30. Multiple first ends 23 protrude in parallel from the first terminal holding portion 36. Multiple second ends 24 protrude in parallel from the second terminal holding portion 38. A partition wall 37 that separates the multiple first ends 23 extends from the tip of the first terminal holding portion 36.

[0046] The fixing portion 40 is connected to the base end of the insertion portion 32. The fixing portion 40 is formed in a plate shape that protrudes outward from the base end of the insertion portion 32. In this embodiment, the fixing portion 40 is formed in an oval plate shape. The fixing portion 40 is the part that is fastened and fixed to the mounting object 10 on the outside of the insertion portion 32. In this embodiment, through holes 42 are formed in the fixing portion 40. Here, a pair of through holes 42 are formed at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the fixing portion 40. The pair of through holes 42 are formed in positions that overlap the screw holes 14 on the mounting object 10. With the insertion portion 32 inserted into the mounting hole 12, the fixing portion 40 is superimposed on the mounting hole 12. In this state, the through holes 42 are positioned on the outside of the screw holes 14. The screw S, which is a fastener, is screwed into the screw hole 14 through the through holes 42. As a result, the fixing portion 40 is fastened and fixed to the mounting object 10 on the outside of the insertion portion 32.

[0047] In this embodiment, a guide pin 44 is provided protruding from the fixing portion 40. When the insertion portion 32 is inserted into the mounting hole 12, the guide pin 44 is inserted into the guide hole 15. This guides the base body 30 toward the predetermined position in the design relative to the mounting object 10. In addition, when tightening the screw S, the base body 30 is less likely to tilt relative to the mounting hole 12. The guide pin 44 may be omitted.

[0048] With the terminal block 20 fixed to the mounting target 10, the first end 23 protrudes to one side of the mounting target 10 (inside the case), and the second end 24 protrudes to the other side of the mounting target 10 (outside the case). It is assumed that the first end 23 is connected to an electrical component on one side of the mounting target 10 (inside the case), and the second end 24 is connected to an electrical component on the other side of the mounting target 10 (outside the case). The electrical component may be, for example, an electrical wiring member including terminals. For example, holes are formed in the first end 23 and the second end 24, and the first end 23 and the second end 24 are screw-fixed to the electrical component using these holes. The first end 23 and the second end 24 may also be inserted and fixed to the electrical component.

[0049] The packing 50 is made of an elastic material such as rubber. The packing 50 is formed in an annular shape so that it can be positioned along the annular gap between the insertion portion 32 and the tapered inner surface 13. With the base body 30 fixed to the mounting object 10, the packing 50 is interposed between the insertion portion 32 and the tapered inner surface 13 of the mounting hole 12, sealing the gap between the insertion portion 32 and the tapered inner surface 13.

[0050] The outer circumferential surface of the packing 50 includes a tapered outer circumferential surface 52 that gradually decreases in the direction A of insertion into the mounting hole 12. Furthermore, the tapered outer circumferential surface 52 has curved surfaces 53a and 53b that are convex outward in a cross section along the insertion direction A (see Figures 3 to 6). In this embodiment, the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 32 includes a pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33 that gradually decreases in the direction A of insertion into the mounting hole 12.

[0051] <Regarding the insertion part and gasket> The insertion portion 32 and the packing 50 will be described in more detail.

[0052] The insertion portion 32 protrudes from the side of the fixing portion 40 facing the mounting target 10. The outer circumference of the insertion portion 32 includes a pressing tapered outer surface 33. The base end of the pressing tapered outer surface 33 is formed in an oval shape smaller than the outer opening of the tapered inner surface 13. The tip of the pressing tapered outer surface 33 is formed in an oval shape smaller than the inner opening of the tapered inner surface 13. The pressing tapered outer surface 33 is formed in a shape that gradually becomes smaller from the base end to the tip end. When the insertion portion 32 is inserted into the tapered inner surface 13, it is preferable that a gap of equal width is formed between the pressing tapered outer surface 33 and the tapered inner surface 13. For example, the inclination angle of the tapered inner surface 13 with respect to the axial direction of the mounting hole 12 and the inclination angle of the pressing tapered outer surface 33 may be the same. However, a gap that gradually narrows toward the back may be formed between the pressing tapered outer surface 33 and the tapered inner surface 13.

[0053] The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 32 is continuous with respect to the pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33 toward the tip in the insertion direction A, and includes an end portion 34 that has the same shape and continues along the insertion direction A. In other words, the end portion 34 is the part that extends toward the tip in the insertion direction A while maintaining the same shape as the tip of the pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33.

[0054] An annular projection 35 is formed on the outer circumference of the end portion 34, extending from the end on the insertion direction A side. The protruding dimension of the annular projection 35 is such that it fits within the mounting hole 12.

[0055] The packing 50 is formed in an annular shape that can be positioned on the outer circumference of the insertion portion 32. The outer circumferential surface of the packing 50 includes a tapered outer circumferential surface 52 that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion A. The inner circumferential surface of the packing 50 includes a tapered inner circumferential surface 54 that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion A.

[0056] The tapered outer surface 52 has curved surfaces 53a and 53b that can be observed as convex outward in a cross section along the insertion direction A. For example, in a cross section passing through the center of the terminal 22 in the width direction and perpendicular to the plate-shaped terminal 22, the curved surfaces 53a and 53b are curved so as to be convex downward inclined with respect to the insertion direction A (in Figure 7, the curved surface 53a before deformation is shown by a dashed line).

[0057] The curved surfaces 53a and 53b are curved before the terminal block 20 is fixed to the mounting object 10. When the terminal block 20 is fixed to the mounting object 10, the curved surfaces 53a and 53b are pressed against the tapered inner circumferential surface 13. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface of the packing 50 may elastically deform to conform to the shape of the tapered inner circumferential surface 13, and may become a tapered circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the insertion direction A without curving (see Figure 6).

[0058] The curved surfaces 53a and 53b may be formed over the entire circumferential direction of the packing 50, or they may be formed on a portion of the circumferential direction of the packing 50.

[0059] In this embodiment, the packing 50 is formed in an elongated shape according to the shape of the insertion portion 32. More specifically, the packing 50 includes a pair of parallel long sides 51A spaced apart, and a pair of short sides 51B connecting the ends of the pair of long sides 51A. The length dimension L of the packing 50 in the direction of extension of the pair of long sides 51A is greater than the width dimension W of the packing 50 in the direction connecting the pair of long sides 51A. Therefore, the packing 50 has an elongated annular shape in the direction of extension of the long sides 51A.

[0060] It is preferable that a curved surface 53a is formed on each outward-facing surface of the pair of long sides 51A. It is also preferable that a curved surface 53b is formed on each outward-facing surface of the pair of short sides 51B.

[0061] The tapered inner surface 54 includes a plurality of annular ribs 55 that extend along its circumferential direction and are aligned along the insertion direction A. When multiple annular ribs 55 are formed, as in the tapered inner surface 54, it is sufficient to observe the positional relationship of the tops of the annular ribs 55 or the positional relationship of the valleys between the annular ribs 55, and ensure that they gradually decrease in size toward the insertion direction A.

[0062] The curved surfaces 53a and 53b on the outer circumference of the packing 50 are formed more gently than the inner circumference formed by the multiple annular ribs 55. Smoothness can be evaluated by the magnitude of the radius of curvature, with a larger radius of curvature indicating greater smoothness. For example, in a cross-section of the packing 50 observed along its central axis, the radius of curvature of the curved surface 53a or 53b appearing in the cross-section is greater than the radius of curvature of the annular ribs 55 on the inner circumference appearing in the cross-section. The radius of curvature may be the radius of curvature of the top of the convex shape appearing in the cross-section (i.e., the most protruding part), the maximum value of the radius of curvature of the convex shape, or the average value. Furthermore, smoothness can be evaluated by the magnitude of the change in unevenness, with a smaller change in unevenness indicating greater smoothness. For example, the change in unevenness is a type of line roughness and may be evaluated by an evaluation value that applies the concept of arithmetic mean roughness as defined in JIS B 0601-2001. For example, in a cross-section of the packing 50 observed along its central axis, the concept of arithmetic mean roughness may be applied to the convex contour line appearing in the cross-section. The average of the absolute values ​​of the difference between the contour line and the average of the contour line heights may be used as the evaluation value, and the smaller this evaluation value, the smoother the contour line is considered to be.

[0063] An outer end portion 54a is formed on the tapered inner circumferential surface 54 of the packing 50, and the same shape is continuous toward the insertion direction A. In other words, the outer end portion 54a is the part that continues in the same shape toward the insertion direction A toward the tip of the tapered inner circumferential surface 54. This outer end portion 54a is set to be smaller than the end portion 34 of the insertion portion 32. As a result, when the outer end portion 54a is positioned around the end portion 34, the outer end portion 54a is elastically stretched. In this case, the outer end portion 54a tightens around the end portion 34 by its own elastic force. This makes it difficult for the packing 50 to fall out of the insertion portion 32.

[0064] In this embodiment, the tip of the packing 50 is in contact with the annular projection 35. The annular projection 35 also prevents the packing 50 from falling out of the insertion portion 32.

[0065] With the packing 50 installed in the insertion portion 32, the end of the packing 50 on the fixing portion 40 side is in contact with the fixing portion 40. As a result, when the fixing portion 40 is fixed in place by pressing it against the mounting object 10, the pressing force can push the packing 50 toward the mounting hole 12.

[0066] <Examples of contact with curved surfaces and examples of curved surface shapes> Figures 7 and 8 are explanatory diagrams showing the terminal block 20 mounted on the mounting object 10. In Figure 7, the terminal 22 is parallel to the central axis of the mounting hole 12, while in Figure 8, the terminal 22 is inclined with respect to the central axis of the mounting hole 12. In Figures 7 and 8, the initial shape of the packing 50, the position of the screw hole 14, and the head of the screw S are indicated by dashed lines.

[0067] In the state shown in Figure 7, the outermost bulging apex of the curved surfaces 53a and 53b is pressed against the tapered inner surface 13. The portion of the curved surfaces 53a and 53b pressed against the tapered inner surface 13 elastically deforms into a tapered outer surface shape, conforming to the shape of the tapered inner surface 13. In the cross section along the insertion direction A, the portion of the curved surfaces 53a and 53b pressed against the tapered inner surface 13 becomes straight.

[0068] As shown in Figure 8, it is conceivable that the terminal block 20 may be tilted relative to the mounting target 10. In this case, it is conceivable that the portion of one of the pair of curved surfaces 53a (hereinafter sometimes distinguished as the first curved surface 53a1) that is closer to the fixing portion 40 will be pressed against the portion of the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 that is closer to the back (see left side of Figure 8), and the portion of the other curved surface (hereinafter sometimes distinguished as the second curved surface 53a2) that is closer to the first end 23 will be pressed against the portion of the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 that is closer to the opening (see right side of Figure 8).

[0069] In this case as well, since the curved surface 53a is a curved surface that is convex outward in a cross-section along the insertion direction A, the contact manner of both curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 with the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 is the same. In other words, although the contact positions are different, the portions of both curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 that are curved in the same way are in contact with the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 which exhibits the same inclination angle.

[0070] Therefore, regardless of the inclination or angle of the terminal block 20 relative to the mounting target 10, the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 can contact the tapered inner surface 13 in the same manner. For example, although the contact positions of the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 with respect to the tapered inner surface 13 may change, the contact width can be kept as similar as possible. This ensures stable sealing performance by the packing 50.

[0071] In particular, when the packing 50 is elongated, it is assumed that the tilt of the pair of short sides 51B is more likely to occur vertically than the tilt of the pair of long sides 51A. For this reason, if curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 are formed on the pair of long sides 51A, the sealing performance will be effectively maintained even if the tilt occurs.

[0072] Of course, if a curved surface 53b is also formed on the pair of short sides 51B, the sealing performance will be effectively maintained even if the pair of short sides 51B are tilted vertically.

[0073] If the packing 50 has curved surfaces located opposite each other, it is preferable that these curved surfaces lie on the same virtual circumference C. For example, if a curved surface 53a1 is formed on one long side portion 51A and a curved surface 53a2 is formed on the other long side portion 51A, the curved surface 53a2 as the second curved surface can be understood as an example of a surface located on the opposite side from the curved surface 53a1 as the first curved surface. In other words, it is preferable that the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 have the same center of curvature and the same radius of curvature.

[0074] In this case, if the terminal block 20 is tilted, the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 are displaced so as to be tilted at the same angle with respect to the tapered inner circumferential surface 13. Therefore, if the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 are located on the same virtual circumference C, the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 are likely to contact the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 in the same manner even when the terminal block 20 is tilted.

[0075] The curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a preferably include the outer surface of the cylindrical portion with the pivot axis X of the base body 30 relative to the mounting object 10 as the center of curvature. The pivot axis X of the base body 30 relative to the mounting object 10 is, for example, the center of rotation when tilting from the design reference position to the position where tilting is likely to occur due to the fixing structure of the base body 30 relative to the mounting object 10. The outer surface of the cylindrical portion is a surface that forms part of the outer surface of the circumference.

[0076] For example, the center of curvature of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion of the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 may be located on a straight line L passing through the first fixing point P1 and the second fixing point P2 with respect to the mounting object 10 (see Figures 1, 8, and 9).

[0077] The fixing points P1 and P2 are positions that serve as the fixing reference when the base body 30 is fixed to the mounting object 10. For example, in this embodiment, a screw S is screwed into the screw hole 14 through the insertion hole 42. When the screw S is screwed into the screw hole 14, the screw S is in a position that is easily maintained in a fixed position relative to the mounting object 10. Also, because the head of the screw S is pushing downwards against the upper opening edge of the insertion hole 42, the upper opening edge of the insertion hole 42 closest to the head of the screw S is a part that is easily maintained in a fixed position relative to the mounting object 10. Therefore, it is desirable that the straight line L passing through the centers of the upper opening edges of the two screw holes 14 be considered as the pivot axis, and that the center of curvature of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion of the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 be set on this straight line L.

[0078] This allows the base body 30 to be in a position where it is easily tilted, while the curved surface 53a can be effectively pressed against the tapered inner surface 13.

[0079] The outward-facing surface of the short side portion 51B may or may not be curved. For example, the outward-facing surface of the short side portion 51B may be a curved surface 53b that curves in the same way as the curvature of the curved surface 53a.

[0080] <Effects, etc.> With the packing 50 attached to the insertion portion 32, the terminal block 20 is attached to the mounting target 10. That is, with the first end 23 facing the mounting hole 12, the insertion portion 32 and the packing 50 are inserted into the mounting hole 12. At this time, the guide pin 44 is inserted into the guide hole 15, guiding the packing 50 and the insertion portion 32 toward a predetermined position relative to the tapered inner circumferential surface 13.

[0081] When the packing 50 is placed within the tapered inner circumferential surface 13, the tapered outer circumferential surface 52 of the packing 50 is pressed against the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 of the mounting hole 12.

[0082] The insertion portion 32 is pushed further into the mounting hole 12. For example, when the screw S is inserted through the insertion hole 42 of the fixing portion 40 and then screwed into the screw hole 14 of the mounting object 10, the fixing portion 40 is pushed toward the mounting object 10. As a result, the insertion portion 32 connected to the fixing portion 40 is pushed further into the mounting hole 12. Preferably, the fixing portion 40 directly presses the packing 50 and pushes it into the tapered inner circumferential surface 13.

[0083] Here, the outer circumferential surface of the packing 50 is formed as a tapered outer circumferential surface 52 that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion A. Therefore, when the insertion portion 32 and the packing 50 are pushed into the mounting hole 12, the gap between the insertion portion 32 and the mounting hole 12 narrows in the insertion direction A, and the packing 50 is compressed along the insertion direction A. Also, in the direction intersecting the insertion direction A, the gap between the insertion portion 32 and the mounting hole 12 narrows, and the packing 50 is compressed in that direction as well. Thus, the packing 50 can be interposed between the insertion portion 32 and the mounting hole 12 in a compressed state in the insertion direction A and in the direction intersecting the insertion direction A. The elastic restoring force of the compressed packing 50 can effectively seal the gap between the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 and the tapered outer circumferential surface 52.

[0084] In other words, to obtain good sealing performance, it is desirable to generate a large surface pressure on the tapered inner surface 13 and the tapered outer surface 52. To generate a large surface pressure, it is possible to increase the amount of compression of the packing 50. In this embodiment, by compressing the packing 50 in the insertion direction A and in a direction intersecting the insertion direction A, the amount of compression of the packing 50 can be increased, thereby obtaining good sealing performance.

[0085] Furthermore, the packing 50 is compressed in the insertion direction A and in a direction intersecting the insertion direction A, and the repulsive force in the direction intersecting the insertion direction A is received by the insertion portion 32 and the terminal 22 within the insertion portion 32. Therefore, the repulsive force received by the fixing portion 40 is small relative to the total amount of compression of the packing 50. As a result, the base body 30 is less likely to undergo creep deformation, and the sealing performance provided by the packing 50 is maintained for an even longer period of time.

[0086] Furthermore, it is not necessary to add reinforcing ribs or separate metal components to the base body 30 to suppress creep deformation. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of resin used, miniaturize the device, lower its profile, reduce its weight, and lower its cost.

[0087] Furthermore, since the contact point between the mounting target 10 and the packing 50 is inclined with respect to the insertion direction A, the installation area of ​​the packing 50 can be reduced in a plan view along the insertion direction A. This makes it possible to miniaturize the terminal block 20 and its installation space.

[0088] Furthermore, the tapered outer surface 52 has curved surfaces 53a and 53b that are convex outward in a cross-section along the insertion direction A. Therefore, even if the terminal block 20 is tilted when mounted in the mounting hole 12, the curved surfaces 53a and 53b can stably contact the tapered inner surface 13 of the mounting hole 12, resulting in good sealing performance.

[0089] Furthermore, since the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 of the packing 50, which are located on opposite sides of each other, are located on the same virtual circumference C, the contact state of the curved surfaces 53a1 and 53a2 with the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 of the mounting hole 12 remains stable when the terminal block 20 is tilted.

[0090] Furthermore, since the curved surface 53a includes the outer surface of the cylindrical portion with the pivot axis X of the base body 30 relative to the mounting target 10 as the center of curvature, the outer surface of the cylindrical portion can stably contact the inner surface of the mounting hole when the terminal block 20 pivots around the pivot axis X.

[0091] If the center of curvature of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion of the curved surface 53a is located on a straight line L passing through the first fixing point P1 and the second fixing point P2 with respect to the mounting object 10, then when the terminal block 20 swings with the straight line L as its pivot axis, the outer surface of the cylindrical portion of the curved surface 53a can stably contact the tapered inner surface 13 of the mounting hole 12.

[0092] Furthermore, the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 32 includes a pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33 that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion A, and the inner circumferential surface of the packing 50 includes a tapered inner circumferential surface 54 as a shaped portion that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion A. Therefore, by pressing the pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33 of the insertion portion 32 against the tapered inner circumferential surface 54 of the packing 50, the packing 50 becomes easier to compress in the direction intersecting the insertion direction A.

[0093] Furthermore, the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 32 and the inner circumferential surface of the packing 50 each include end portions 34 and 54a that are continuous along the insertion direction A toward the tip side of the pressing tapered outer circumferential surface 33 or tapered inner circumferential surface 54. The outer end portion 54a of the packing 50 is in a state of tightening against the end portion of the insertion portion 32. This makes it easier to hold the packing 50 in place so that it does not fall out of the insertion portion 32.

[0094] Furthermore, the packing 50 includes multiple annular ribs 55. Therefore, when the insertion portion 32 is inserted into the mounting hole 12, the packing 50 can be elastically deformed to crush the multiple annular ribs 55. This allows the dimensions of each part to be designed so that the packing 50 is sufficiently elastically deformed, taking into account manufacturing or assembly tolerances. As a result, good sealing performance can be obtained regardless of manufacturing or assembly tolerances.

[0095] Furthermore, if the curved surfaces 53a and 53b are gentler than the inner circumferential surface formed by the annular ribs 55, the packing 50 can be significantly elastically deformed by the multiple annular ribs 55 on the inner circumference of the packing 50. If the curved surfaces 53a and 53b on the outer circumference of the packing 50 are formed more gently than the inner circumferential surface of the packing, even if a partial recess is formed in the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 of the mounting hole 12, the tapered outer surface 52 can be easily brought into contact with the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 around it.

[0096] For example, the surface of the mounting object 10 may be more prone to partial recesses than the surface of the base body 30. For example, if the mounting object 10 is a metal casting, casting defects are likely to form on the surface of the mounting object 10. In this way, even if a partial recess is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 12, the tapered outer circumferential surface 52 can be easily brought into contact with the tapered inner circumferential surface 13 around it. This makes it possible to achieve good sealing performance between the mounting hole 12 and the packing 50 along the entire circumferential direction of the mounting hole 12.

[0097] Furthermore, if the base body 30 includes a fixing portion 40 that is connected to the base end of the insertion portion 32 and fastened and fixed to the mounting object 10 on the outside of the insertion portion 32, the fixing portion 40 can keep the insertion portion 32 pressed into the mounting hole 12.

[0098] Furthermore, since the packing 50 is in contact with the fixing part 40, the fixing part 40 makes it easier to push the packing 50 into the mounting hole 12.

[0099] [Differentiation] In this embodiment, the packing acts as a wedge, and as the packing is inserted into the mounting hole, it can generate a compressive force that intersects the insertion direction.

[0100] Therefore, for example, as shown in the modified terminal block 120 in Figure 9, the outer circumferential surface 151 of the packing 150 corresponding to the packing 50 is a surface that gradually decreases in size toward the insertion direction A and has a shape that includes a curved surface 152 (the initial shape is shown by a dashed line), and the outer circumferential surface 133 of the insertion part 132 corresponding to the insertion part 32 and the inner circumferential surface 153 of the packing 150 may be surfaces that have a continuous portion of the same shape in the insertion direction A.

[0101] In the case shown in Figure 9, the packing 150 is compressed in a direction intersecting the insertion direction A. The repulsive force due to this compression acts in a direction intersecting the insertion direction A and is received by the terminal 22. Furthermore, even if the terminal block 120 is tilted, the curved surface 152 remains in stable contact with the mounting hole 12. Therefore, similar to the above embodiment, the terminal block 120 is less susceptible to creep deformation, the sealing performance by the packing 150 can be maintained for an even longer period, and stable sealing performance can be obtained even if the terminal block 120 is tilted.

[0102] Furthermore, the configurations described in the above embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10. Applicable to installation 12 mounting holes 13 Tapered inner surface 14 screw holes 15 guide holes 20, 120 terminal block 22 terminals 23 1st end 24 2nd end 25 Terminals in the middle 30 units 32, 132 Insertion section 33 Tapered outer surface for pressing 34 End part 35 Annular projection 36 1st terminal holding part 37 Partition wall 38 2nd terminal holding part 40 Fixed part 42 Through hole 44 Guide pins 50, 150 packing 51A Long side 51B Short side 52 Tapered outer surface 53a, 53b, 152 curved surface 53a1 First curved surface 53a2 Second curved surface 54 Tapered inner surface 54a Outer end part 55 Annular Ribs 133 Outer surface 151 Outer surface 153 Inner surface A. Insertion direction C Virtual Circle P1 First fixed point P2 Second fixed point S screw X pivot axis

Claims

1. A terminal block that is fixed to an object having mounting holes, A terminal including a first end, a second end, and an intermediate terminal portion between the first end and the second end, A base body including an insertion portion that is inserted into the mounting hole, the base body being fixed to the mounting object with the insertion portion inserted into the mounting hole, With the base body fixed to the mounting object, a packing is interposed between the insertion portion and the mounting hole, Equipped with, The base body holds the terminal while covering the intermediate portion of the terminal. The outer circumferential surface of the packing includes a tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually decreases in the direction of insertion into the mounting hole, and the tapered outer circumferential surface has a curved surface that is convex outward in a cross-section along the insertion direction. The curved surface has a first curved surface and a second curved surface located on the opposite side from the first curved surface. Each of the first curved surface and the second curved surface includes the outer circumferential surface of a cylindrical portion whose center of curvature is the pivot axis of the base body relative to the mounting object, A terminal block in which the centers of curvature of the outer circumferential surfaces of the cylindrical portions of the first curved surface and the second curved surface are the same pivot axis, and the radii of curvature of the outer circumferential surfaces of the cylindrical portions of the first curved surface and the second curved surface are the same.

2. A terminal block according to claim 1, The packing includes a pair of long sides arranged parallel to each other with a gap between them, and a pair of short sides connecting the ends of the pair of long sides. The length dimension of the packing in the direction in which the pair of long sides extend is greater than the width dimension of the packing in the direction connecting the pair of long sides. A terminal block in which the curved surface is formed on the outward-facing surface of each of the pair of long sides.

3. A terminal block according to claim 1, The terminal block wherein the center of curvature of the outer surface of the cylindrical portion is located on a straight line passing through the first fixing point and the second fixing point with respect to the mounting object.

4. A terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, The terminal block wherein the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion includes a pressing tapered outer circumferential surface that gradually becomes smaller in the direction of insertion.

5. A terminal block according to claim 4, The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion includes an end portion that is continuous with respect to the pressing tapered outer circumferential surface toward the tip in the insertion direction, and has the same shape along the insertion direction. The inner circumferential surface of the packing includes an outer end portion on the outer circumferential side of the end portion, in which the same shape is continuous along the insertion direction. A terminal block in which the outer end portion of the packing is tightened by its own elastic force.

6. A terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, The terminal block comprises a packing that extends circumferentially on its inner circumference and includes a plurality of annular ribs arranged along the insertion direction.

7. A terminal block according to claim 6, A terminal block in which the curved surface is gentler than the inner circumferential surface formed by the plurality of annular ribs.

8. A terminal block according to claim 1 or claim 2, The base body includes a fixing portion that is connected to the base end of the insertion portion and fastened and fixed to the object to be mounted outside the insertion portion, and is a terminal block.

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