Connector inspection jig, connector inspection device, connector inspection method, and control program for connector inspection device

Abstract

To provide a connector inspection tool etc., capable specifying defective terminal metal fittings while having a simpler structure.SOLUTION: A connector inspection tool has: a housing; a first cover fixed to one end part side of the housing; a second cover fixed to the other end part side; a plurality of first pins which each have a terminal part at the one end part and are so accommodated in the housing that the terminal part is exposed from the first cover; a plurality of second pins which each comprise a contact part to contact a first pin at the one end part and are accommodated in the housing having the other end part fixed to the second cover; a slide plate which has through holes that the second pins penetrate and is fitted to the second cover movably to and away from the second cover; a plurality of energizing members which are sandwiched between a flange plate and the slide plate and energize the respective first pins away from the slide plate; and a force sensor which measures the push force with which the plurality of energizing members thrust the slide plate, wherein the plurality of first pins differ in exposure length of a terminal part from the first cover from one another.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector inspection jig and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In order to connect each of a plurality of electric wires simultaneously, a connector is used. Generally, connectors include male connectors and female connectors. In the connection of a connector, a male connector and a female connector are fitted together. In a male connector, a male terminal fitting is fixed to the end of an electric wire. And the male terminal fitting is fixed to a housing. Similarly, in a female connector, a female terminal fitting is connected to the end of an electric wire, and the female terminal fitting is fixed to a housing. Generally, in both the male and female cases, the terminal fitting is fixed to the terminal insertion hole of the housing. If this fixing is not performed properly, when the male connector and the female connector are connected, the terminal fitting is displaced and a connection failure occurs. Also, if the male terminal fitting is not held by the female terminal fitting, a contact failure occurs. Therefore, in both the male and female cases, it is necessary to inspect whether the terminal fitting is fixed to the housing and is in a state where it can be fitted with the terminal fitting of the other party.

[0003] A technique for inspecting the above-mentioned connector is disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1. The technique described in Patent Document 1 relates to a contact probe for continuity testing and a continuity tester including the same. In the continuity tester of Patent Document 1, a contact probe equipped with contact pins that are inserted into a plurality of female terminal fittings is used. This contact probe holds the contact pins with a casing. At this time, the contact probe is biased in the direction of removal from the female terminal fitting by the elastic force of a spring. The contact probe is also equipped with a switch mechanism that switches between continuity and non-continuity between the contact pins and the test circuit. This switch mechanism is normally non-conductive. When the contact pins are pulled out and protrude a predetermined amount from the casing, the switch becomes conductive. In the inspection of a female connector, first, each contact pin is inserted into the female terminal fitting of the female connector to be inspected. At this time, the contact pins are held by the tongues of the female terminal fitting. Next, the inspection device moves the contact probe a predetermined amount in the direction away from (separated from) the female connector. Here, if the contact pin is properly clamped, it will protrude against the biasing force, thus establishing continuity with the test circuit. On the other hand, if the contact pin is not properly clamped, it will not protrude, and therefore will not establish continuity with the test circuit. Failure to clamp the contact pin indicates that the female terminal fitting is defective. For example, insufficient contact pressure may be the cause of the defect. Here, contact pressure refers to the pressure at which the tongues clamp the contact pin. Through the above operation, the continuity tester can inspect the female terminal fitting. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 08-022882 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires a switch mechanism to be provided in the casing that holds the contact pins. This resulted in a problem where the structure of the contact probe became complex.

[0006] This invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a connector inspection jig, etc., that has a simpler structure and can identify defective terminal fittings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the connector inspection jig of the present invention comprises a housing, a first cover fixed to one end of the housing, a second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, a plurality of first pins housed in the housing, each having a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, such that each of the plurality of terminal portions is exposed from the first cover, a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, each having a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pins and a body portion fixed to the second cover at the other end, a sliding plate attached to the second cover so as to be able to move closer to and further away from the second cover, a plurality of biasing members provided between the flange portion and the sliding plate that bias each of the plurality of first pins away from the sliding plate, and a force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by the plurality of biasing members to the sliding plate, wherein the lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover at the plurality of terminal portions are different from each other.

[0008] Furthermore, the connector inspection device of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned connector inspection jig, position control means for controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector to be inspected, pressing force acquisition means for acquiring the pressing force measured by the force sensor when the position of the housing is changed, and display means for displaying inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing and the pressing force relative to the connector to be inspected.

[0009] Furthermore, the connector inspection method of the present invention is a connector inspection method using a connector inspection jig, the connector inspection jig comprises a housing, a first cover fixed to one end of the housing, a second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, a plurality of first pins housed in the housing with a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, such that the terminal portion is exposed from the first cover, a plurality of second pins housed in the housing with a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pins and a body portion fixed to the second cover at the other end, and a through hole through which the second pins pass, and is attached to the second cover so as to allow for proximity to and separation from the second cover The connector inspection device comprises a sliding plate attached to it, a plurality of biasing members sandwiched between the flange portion and the sliding plate and biasing each of the first pins away from the sliding plate, and a force sensor that measures the force with which the plurality of biasing members press against the sliding plate, wherein the plurality of first pins have different lengths of exposure from the first cover of the terminal portion, and the connector inspection device controls the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, calculates the pressing force with which the biasing members press against the sliding plate based on the output of the force sensor when the position of the housing is changed, and displays inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a control program for a connector inspection device, which controls a connector inspection device that performs connector inspection using a connector inspection jig, wherein the connector inspection jig comprises a housing, a first cover fixed to one end of the housing, a second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, a plurality of first pins housed in the housing with a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, the terminal portion being exposed from the first cover, a plurality of second pins housed in the housing with a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pins and a body portion fixed to the second cover at the other end, and through holes through which the second pins pass, and proximity to the second cover The connector inspection device includes a sliding plate attached to the second cover so as to allow separation from the flange portion, a plurality of biasing members sandwiched between the flange portion and the sliding plate and biasing each of the first pins toward the sliding plate, and a force sensor for measuring the pressing force applied by the plurality of biasing members toward the sliding plate, wherein the plurality of first pins have different lengths of exposure from the first cover of the terminal portion, and the connector inspection device is made to perform the following processes: controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, acquiring the pressing force when the position of the housing is changed, and displaying inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing and the pressing force relative to the connector under inspection. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The advantage of the present invention is that it can provide connector inspection jigs and the like that have a simpler structure and can identify defective terminal fittings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing a connector inspection jig according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the first pin of the connector inspection jig according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the second pin of the connector inspection jig according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram showing how each element of the connector inspection jig of the first embodiment is assembled. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing the connector inspection apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram showing an example of the control unit of the connector inspection apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of the connector inspection jig and the inspected connector of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram showing the first state of the first example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the first example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram showing the third state of the first example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing the fourth state of the first example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a schematic diagram showing the first state of the second example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the second example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram showing the third state of the second example of the connector inspection of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a graph showing an example of the connector inspection data of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart showing an operation example of the connector inspection apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a flowchart showing another operation example of the connector inspection apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a schematic diagram showing a modification example of the connector inspection jig of the first embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, although the embodiments described below have technically preferable limitations for implementing the present invention, they do not limit the scope of the invention below. The same components in each drawing are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description may be omitted in some cases.

[0014] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a connector inspection jig 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first pin 4 of the connector inspection jig 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second pin 5 of the connector inspection jig 10 according to the first embodiment. Further, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing how each element of the connector inspection jig 10 according to the first embodiment is assembled.

[0015] Referring to FIG. 1, the connector inspection jig 10 includes a housing 1, a first cover 2, a second cover 3, a first pin 4, a second pin 5, a sliding plate 6, a biasing member 7, and a force sensor 8.

[0016] The first cover 2 is fixed to one end side of the housing 1.

[0017] The second cover 3 is fixed to the other end side of the housing 1.

[0018] The connector inspection jig 10 is equipped with a plurality of first pins 4. Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, each first pin 4 has a terminal portion 4a at one end. Each first pin 4 also has a flange portion 4b at the other end. Each first pin 4 is housed in the housing 1 such that the terminal portion 4a is exposed from the first cover 2. The lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover 2 are different for each of the plurality of terminal portions 4a. Here, there is a correspondence between the length of the exposed portion and the position of the first pin 4. There are no restrictions on the relationship between the order in which the first pins 4 are arranged and the length of the exposed portion. However, as in the example in Figure 1, it is easier to understand the correspondence if the length of the exposed portion changes sequentially according to the order in which the first pins 4 are arranged. In the example in Figure 1, five first pins 4 are arranged in a row, but the arrangement of the first pins 4 is not limited to this example. For example, the number of first pins 4 may be six or more. For example, the first pin 4 may be arranged in two or more rows.

[0019] Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, the second pin 5 has a contact portion 5a at one end. The contact portion 5a contacts the first pin 4. The second pin 5 also has a body portion 5b at the other end, which is fixed to the second cover. Multiple second pins 5 corresponding to multiple first pins 4 are housed in the housing 1.

[0020] Referring to Figures 1 and 4, a sliding plate 6 is attached to the second cover. The sliding plate 6 has a through hole through which the second pin 5 passes. The sliding plate 6 is attached to the second cover 3 so that it can be moved closer to and further away from the second cover.

[0021] Referring to Figures 1 and 4, the biasing member 7 is provided between the flange portion 4b and the sliding plate 6. The biasing member 7 biases each of the first pins 4 away from the sliding plate 6. Multiple biasing members 7 are provided corresponding to the first pins 4. The biasing force of the corresponding biasing member 7 may vary for each of the multiple first pins 4. For example, the biasing members 7 are installed such that the biasing force increases as the length of the portion of the terminal portion 4a exposed from the first cover 2 decreases.

[0022] The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force applied to the sliding plate 6. The sliding plate 6 is subjected to pressing forces from multiple biasing members 7.

[0023] Next, a connector inspection device 100 using the connector inspection jig 10 will be described. Figure 5 is a block diagram of the connector inspection device 100 according to the first embodiment. The connector inspection device 100 includes a position control means 110, a connector to be inspected holding means 120, a control means 130, and a display means 140.

[0024] The position control means 110 controls the position of the housing 1, i.e., the position of the connector inspection jig 10. The position of the housing 1 is controlled so that one end of the housing 1 is closer to or further away from the connector 90 under inspection.

[0025] The connector under inspection holding means 120 holds the connector under inspection 90. The connector under inspection 90 is held so that each terminal fitting of the connector under inspection 90 and the corresponding first pin 4 face each other directly. The control means 130 controls the position control means 110. The control means 130 also acquires the pressing force measured by the force sensor 8. The control means 130 then generates inspection data representing the relationship between the position of the housing 1 and the pressing force. The control means 130 also controls the display of the display means 140. Through this control, the display means 140 displays the inspection data. The inspection data is data showing the relationship between the position of the housing 1 relative to the connector under inspection 90 and the pressing force.

[0026] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the control means 130 of the connector inspection device 100 according to the first embodiment. The control means 130 includes a position control means control unit 131, a pressing force acquisition unit 132, an inspection data generation unit 133, a reference inspection data acquisition unit 134, a display control unit 135, and a determination unit 136.

[0027] The position control unit 131 controls the operation of the position control means 110.

[0028] The pressing force acquisition unit 132 acquires the pressing force measured by the force sensor 8 when the position of the housing changes.

[0029] The inspection data generation unit 133 generates inspection data. The inspection data is data showing the relationship between the position of the housing 1 and the pressing force.

[0030] The reference inspection data acquisition unit 134 acquires reference inspection data. Reference inspection data is acquired when a reference connector 90 under inspection is inspected. Reference inspection data is acquired, for example, as a theoretical value calculated based on the biasing force of each biasing member 7. Alternatively, for example, reference inspection data can be acquired by inspecting a good connector 90 under inspection that has no defects in the terminal fittings, using it as a reference product. In this case, the inspection data of the reference product becomes the reference inspection data.

[0031] Next, the operation of the connector inspection device 100 will be explained using a specific example. For the purpose of this explanation, each terminal portion 4a of the multiple first pins 4 will be assigned a reference numeral so that they can be distinguished. Each terminal fitting of the connector under inspection 90 will also be assigned a reference numeral. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing a specific example of the connector inspection jig and connector under inspection according to the first embodiment. In the example in Figure 7, the exposed portion of the terminal portion 4a at the left end of the figure has the longest length. The terminal portions 4a are arranged so that the length of the exposed portion gradually decreases from left to right. Each terminal portion 4a is assigned the reference numerals 4a1, 4a2, 4a3, 4a4, and 4a5 from left to right. The terminal fittings corresponding to the terminal portions 4a are assigned the reference numerals h1, h2, h3, h4, and h5 from left to right in Figure 7. The following explanation assumes the following: Once a terminal portion 4a is inserted into a terminal fitting by a predetermined length, the terminal portion 4a does not move any further. In other words, at a predetermined insertion length, the terminal portion 4a is fitted into the terminal fitting and stops.

[0032] (Specific example 1) First, we will explain an example of the operation of the connector inspection device 100 in the inspection of a good quality connector 90. Here, a good quality product means that there are no mounting defects in the terminal fittings h1, h2, h3, h4, and h5.

[0033] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the first state of the first example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. Note that in Figures 8 to 14, some of the reference numerals for the terminal portion 4a and terminal fittings have been omitted to avoid making the diagrams cluttered. In Figure 8, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 7, due to the position control means 110. In the first state shown in Figure 8, a part of the terminal portion 4a1 is inserted into the terminal fitting h1. In this state, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a1 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h1. The pressing force received by the sliding plate 6 from this biasing member 7 is measured by the force sensor 8.

[0034] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the first example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In Figure 9, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 8. In the second state, in addition to the terminal portion 4a1, the second longest terminal portion 4a2 is inserted into the terminal fitting h2 and stopped. In this state, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a2 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h2. Furthermore, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a1 is compressed even further than in the first state. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force received by the sliding plate 6 from these biasing members 7.

[0035] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the third state of the first example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In Figure 10, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 9. In the third state, in addition to terminal portions 4a1 and 4a2, the third longest terminal portion 4a3 is inserted into the terminal fitting h3 and stopped. In this state, the biasing member 7 corresponding to terminal portion 4a3 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h3. Furthermore, the biasing member 7 corresponding to terminal portion 4a1 and the biasing member 7 corresponding to terminal portion 4a2 are compressed even further from their original state than in the second state. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force received by the sliding plate 6 from these biasing members 7.

[0036] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the fourth state of the first example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In Figure 11, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 10. In the fourth state, in addition to the terminal portions 4a1, 4a2, and 4a3, the fourth longest terminal portion 4a4 is inserted into the terminal fitting h4 and stopped. In this state, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a4 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h4. Furthermore, the biasing members 7 corresponding to the terminal portions 4a1 to 4a3 are compressed even further than in the second state compared to their original state. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force received by the sliding plate 6 from these biasing members 7.

[0037] As described above, during the inspection of a good quality connector 90, the number of terminal portions 4a inserted into the terminal fittings increases as the housing 1 approaches the connector 90. Consequently, the contraction of the biasing member 7 corresponding to each terminal portion 4a increases. As a result, the pressing force measured by the force sensor 8 increases as the housing 1 approaches the connector 90.

[0038] Figure 15 is a graph showing an example of connector inspection data for the first embodiment. The horizontal axis, "Position," is positive when the housing 1 approaches the connector 90 under inspection. In the inspection of good products as described above, inspection data like the reference value (□) shown in Figure 15 is obtained. The graph is further marked with the positions where the terminals are fitted into the terminal fittings. 4a1 to 4a5 correspond to h1 to h5. The pressing force at these points is also plotted. In order to determine whether the installation of each terminal fitting is normal, the pressing force at the point where each terminal 4a is fitted is compared with the reference value. If the pressing force is within a predetermined first range from the reference value, the determination unit 136 determines that the terminal fitting is installed normally. On the other hand, if the pressing force is outside the predetermined first range from the reference value, it is determined that the terminal fitting is installed poorly.

[0039] (Specific example 2) Next, an example of the operation of the connector inspection device 100 in the inspection of a defective connector 90 will be described. Here, we will describe a case in which the terminal fitting h2 is not properly attached. Here, "not properly attached" means that the terminal fitting h2 is not fixed to the body of the connector under inspection. In other words, the terminal fitting h2 moves when pressed from the terminal portion 4a.

[0040] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the first state of a second example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In the first state shown in Figure 12, a portion of the terminal portion 4a1 is inserted into the terminal fitting h1. The terminal fitting h1 is normal. Therefore, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a1 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h1. The pressing force received by the sliding plate 6 from this biasing member 7 is measured by the force sensor 8. The pressing force at this time is the value indicated by (○) at the h1 fitting position in Figure 15. Since the terminal fitting h1 is properly installed, this value is within the normal range relative to the reference value.

[0041] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the second state of a second example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In Figure 13, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 12. In the second state, the terminal fitting h2 is pushed downwards by the second longest terminal portion 4a2. In this case, no resistance force from the terminal fitting h2 acts on the second terminal portion 4a2. Therefore, the biasing member 7 does not contract. As a result, the increase in pressing force measured by the force sensor 8 is only the increase due to the contraction of the biasing member 7 corresponding to the first terminal portion 4a1. Consequently, the measured pressing force is smaller than the reference value and falls outside the normal range. The mating position of h2 in Figure 15 is shown, and this value is indicated by (○). From this result, it can be determined that the terminal fitting h2 is not properly installed.

[0042] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the third state of the second example of connector inspection according to the first embodiment. In Figure 14, the housing 1 is closer to the connector 90 under inspection than in the state shown in Figure 13. In the third state, in addition to the terminal portion 4a1, the third longest terminal portion 4a3 is inserted into the terminal fitting h3 and stopped. In this state, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a3 is compressed by the amount of the resistance force received from the terminal fitting h3. The biasing member 7 corresponding to the terminal portion 4a1 is further compressed from its original state. On the other hand, the biasing member 7 corresponding to the second terminal portion 4a2 is not compressed. Also, the second terminal fitting h2 has moved further downward in the figure. Because the second biasing member 7 is not compressed, the measured pressing force is smaller than the reference value. However, the difference between the pressing force at the h3 mating position and the pressing force at the h2 mating position is normal. For this reason, the determination unit 136 determines that the installation of the terminal fitting h3 is normal.

[0043] In the example above, we assumed there were 5 terminal fittings and 5 terminal parts 4a, but this number can be generalized to any natural number n. In other words, if the pressing force at the nth mating position deviates from the reference value, it can be determined that the terminal fitting at that position is poorly installed. Furthermore, if the difference is maintained in subsequent inspections, the determination unit 136 can determine that the terminal fittings up to that point are properly installed. On the other hand, if the difference from the reference value increases, it is determined that the terminal fitting in question is poorly installed.

[0044] Next, a summary of the operation of the connector inspection device 100, which has been shown as a specific example above, will be explained. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the connector inspection device 100 of the first embodiment. First, the housing 1 is brought closer to the connector 90 to be inspected by the position control means 110. This position is the position where the longest terminal portion 4a is fitted into the terminal fitting (S101). Here, the longest terminal portion 4a is the terminal portion 4a of the first pin 4 that has the longest exposed portion from the first cover 2. Next, it is determined whether the measured value of the pressing force at this position is within the normal range relative to the reference value (S102). If the pressing force is within the normal range (S102_Yes), the determination unit 136 determines that the terminal fitting is normal (S103). Then, the determination unit 136 determines whether the determined terminal fitting is the last terminal fitting to be fitted (S105). On the other hand, in S102, if the measured value of the pressing force is outside the normal range relative to the reference value, the determination unit 136 determines that the terminal fitting is not properly attached (S104).

[0045] Next, the determination unit 136 determines whether the terminal fitting determined above is the last terminal fitting. Here, the last terminal fitting is the terminal fitting into which the terminal portion 4a with the shortest exposed portion is fitted. If it is determined that the terminal fitting is the last one (S105_Yes), the process ends. On the other hand, if the target is not the last terminal fitting (S105_No), the position control means 110 moves the connector inspection jig 10 to the position where the terminal portion 4a of the next first pin 4 is fitted into the terminal fitting (S106). Then, the process returns to S102, and it is determined whether the next terminal fitting is normal.

[0046] In the connector inspection device 100 described above, the exposed lengths of the multiple terminal portions 4a are different from each other. Therefore, when the connector inspection jig 10 is gradually moved closer to the connector 90 under inspection, the terminal portions 4a come into contact with the corresponding terminal fittings in order from the longest terminal portion 4a. If the terminal fitting is properly installed, the terminal portion 4a will fit into the terminal fitting. At this time, the corresponding biasing member 7 is compressed, and the pressing force measured by the force sensor 8 increases. On the other hand, if the terminal fitting is defective, the increase in pressing force will fall outside the normal range of the standard value. Therefore, by acquiring inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing 1 and the pressing force, the defective terminal fitting can be identified.

[0047] Next, another example of operation of the connector inspection device 100 will be described. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing another example of operation of the connector inspection device 100 of the first embodiment. In this example, first, the position control means 110 moves the connector inspection jig 10 to a position where the terminal portion 4a of the shortest first pin 4 is fitted into the terminal fitting (S201). Here, the longest first pin is the first pin 4 with the shortest length of the exposed portion from the first cover 2. Next, the determination unit 136 determines whether the measured pressing force is within the normal range of the reference value (S202). If the pressing force is within the normal range (S202_Yes), the determination unit 136 determines that all terminal fittings are normal (S203). On the other hand, if the pressing force is within the reference range (S202_No), the determination unit 136 determines whether there is a defect in the terminal fitting at the fitting position (S204). Next, it is determined whether the connector inspection jig 10 is in a position where all matings are disengaged (S205). If it is in a position where all matings are disengaged (S205_Yes), the process ends. Next, the position control means 110 moves the connector inspection jig 10 to a position where one mating is disengaged (S206). Then, returning to S202, the determination unit 136 determines whether the pressing force is within the normal range of the reference value. If the pressing force is within the normal range of the reference value, it is confirmed that the terminal fitting that was targeted in the previous step is defective. On the other hand, if the pressing force is outside the normal range of the reference value, it becomes clear that there is a defect in the terminal fitting corresponding to the terminal portion 4a in the mating position. In other words, by repeating the above determination, the connector inspection device 100 can determine whether the terminal fitting determined in the previous step is normal or defective.

[0048] (modified version) In the connector inspection device 100 described above, defects in terminal fittings were detected based on the pressing force. However, a function to perform electrical continuity testing can be added to the connector inspection device 100. Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing a modified version of the connector inspection jig of the first embodiment. In the connector inspection jig 10a of this modified version, the first pin 4 and the second pin 5 are made of conductors. The body portion 5b of the second pin 5 is connectable to the connector 20 of the inspection device. The connector 20 of the inspection device has wiring connected to each of the second pins 5. This wiring is connected to the connector inspection device 100. Similarly, the wiring connected to the terminal fittings of the connector 90 under inspection is connected to the connector inspection device 100.

[0049] By using the connector inspection jig 10a described above, the connector inspection device 100 can perform a continuity test to check the continuity between each terminal portion 4a and the terminal fitting.

[0050] The connector inspection jig 10 and other components of the first embodiment have been described above.

[0051] The connector inspection jig 10 of the present invention comprises a housing 1, a first cover 2, a second cover 3, a first pin 4, a second pin 5, a sliding plate 6, a biasing member 7, and a force sensor 8. The first cover 2 is fixed to one end of the housing 1. The second cover 3 is fixed to the other end of the housing 1. The connector inspection jig 10 comprises a plurality of first pins 4. Each first pin 4 has a terminal portion 4a at one end. Each first pin 4 also has a flange portion 4b at the other end. Each first pin 4 is housed in the housing 1 such that the terminal portion 4a is exposed from the first cover 2. The lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover 2 of the plurality of terminal portions 4a are different from each other. The second pin 5 has a contact portion 5a at one end. The contact portion 5a contacts the first pin 4. Furthermore, the second pin 5 has a body portion 5b at its other end. The body portion 5b is fixed to the second cover 3. Multiple second pins 5 corresponding to multiple first pins 4 are housed in the housing 1. The sliding plate 6 has multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins 5 passes. The sliding plate 6 is attached to the second cover 3 so that it can be moved closer to and further away from the second cover. The biasing members 7 are provided between the flange portion 4b and the sliding plate 6. Multiple biasing members 7 bias each of the multiple first pins in a direction away from the sliding plate 6. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force. Here, the pressing force is the force with which the multiple biasing members 7 press against the sliding plate 6.

[0052] In the above configuration, as the housing 1 is gradually brought closer to the connector 90 under inspection, the terminal portions 4a sequentially engage with the terminal fittings of the connector 90 under inspection, according to the length of the exposed portion. The pressing force is then monitored using the force sensor 8. If the terminal fittings are in good condition, the pressing force will remain within the normal range of the reference value. On the other hand, if the terminal fittings are defective, the pressing force will fall outside the normal range. In the connector inspection jig 10, each terminal portion 4a contacts or engages with the terminal fittings one by one, thus identifying the defective terminal fittings.

[0053] In another embodiment, in the connector inspection jig 10, the length of the exposed portion changes according to the arrangement of the first pins 4. The length of the exposed portion refers to the portion of the terminal part 4a that is exposed from the first cover 2. This arrangement makes it easier to identify the terminal fittings during inspection.

[0054] In one embodiment, the biasing force of the corresponding biasing member differs for each of the multiple first pins of the connector inspection jig 10. In one example, the biasing force of the corresponding biasing member increases as the length of the portion of each terminal portion 4a exposed from the first cover 2 decreases. With this configuration, it becomes possible to make the increase in pressing force as the housing 1 gradually approaches the connector 90 under inspection more uniform.

[0055] In another embodiment, the first pin 4 and the second pin 5 of the connector inspection jig 10 are conductors. A connector inspection device 100 for inspecting the connector 90 under inspection is connected to the other end of the second pin. This configuration makes it possible to perform a continuity test between the first pin 4 and the terminal fitting.

[0056] Furthermore, the connector inspection device 100 of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned connector inspection jig 10, position control means 110, pressing force acquisition means (pressing force acquisition unit 132), control means 130, and display means 140. The position control means 110 controls the position of the housing 1. This control is performed so that one end of the housing 1 is closer to or further away from the connector 90 under inspection. The pressing force acquisition means (pressing force acquisition unit 132) acquires the pressing force. The force measured by the force sensor when the position of the housing 1 is changed is the pressing force. The display means 140 displays the inspection data. The inspection data is data showing the relationship between the position of the housing 1 and the pressing force relative to the connector 90 under inspection. By displaying the inspection data, the position of the housing 1 where the pressing force differs from the reference value can be identified. This position corresponds to the length of the exposed portion of the terminal portion 4a. Therefore, a defective terminal fitting can be identified based on the position.

[0057] In another embodiment, the connector inspection device 100 has a reference inspection data acquisition means (reference inspection data acquisition unit 134). The inspection data acquired when the reference connector 90 under inspection is inspected is the reference inspection data. The display means 140 also displays the reference inspection data. By displaying the inspection data and the reference inspection data together, it becomes easier to identify defective terminal fittings.

[0058] In another embodiment, the connector inspection device 100 has a determination unit 136. The determination unit 136 determines whether each terminal fitting of the connector under inspection is normal or defective. The determination is made by comparing the inspection data with reference inspection data. The determination unit 136 automates the detection of defective terminal fittings.

[0059] The connector inspection method of the present invention is a connector inspection method using a connector inspection device 100 and a connector inspection jig 10. The device 1 includes a housing 1, a first cover 2, a second cover 3, a first pin 4, a second pin 5, a sliding plate 6, a biasing member 7, and a force sensor 8. The first cover 2 is fixed to one end of the housing 1. The second cover 3 is fixed to the other end of the housing 1. The connector inspection jig 10 includes a plurality of first pins 4. Each first pin 4 has a terminal portion 4a at one end. Each first pin 4 also has a flange portion 4b at the other end. Each first pin 4 is housed in the housing 1 such that the terminal portion 4a is exposed from the first cover 2. The lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover 2 in the plurality of terminal portions 4a are different from each other. The second pin 5 has a contact portion 5a at one end. The contact portion 5a contacts the first pin 4. The second pin 5 has a body portion 5b at its other end. The body portion 5b is fixed to the second cover 3. Multiple second pins 5 corresponding to multiple first pins 4 are housed in the housing 1. The sliding plate 6 has multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins 5 passes. The sliding plate 6 is attached to the second cover 3 so that it can be moved closer to and further away from the second cover. The biasing member 7 is provided between the flange portion 4b and the sliding plate 6. Multiple biasing members 7 bias each of the multiple first pins in a direction away from the sliding plate 6. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force. Here, the pressing force is the force with which the multiple biasing members 7 press against the sliding plate 6. The connector inspection device 100 controls the position of the housing. This control is performed so that one end of the housing moves closer to or further away from the connector 90 under inspection. Furthermore, the connector inspection device 100 acquires the pressing force when the position of the housing 1 is changed. This pressing force is the pressing force when the position of the housing 1 is changed. The connector inspection device 100 then displays the inspection data. The inspection data shows the relationship between the position of the housing 1 relative to the connector 90 under inspection and the pressing force.

[0060] With this configuration, as the housing 1 is gradually brought closer to the connector 90 under inspection, the terminal portions 4a sequentially engage with the terminal fittings of the connector 90 under inspection, according to the length of the exposed portion. The pressing force is then monitored using the force sensor 8. If the terminal fittings are in good condition, the pressing force will remain within the normal range of the reference value. On the other hand, if the terminal fittings are defective, the pressing force will fall outside the normal range. In the connector inspection jig 10, each terminal portion 4a contacts or engages with the terminal fittings one by one, allowing for the identification of defective terminal fittings.

[0061] In another embodiment, in a connector inspection method, the connector inspection device 100 acquires reference inspection data. The reference inspection data is the inspection data of a reference connector 90 under inspection. The connector inspection device 100 then displays the reference inspection data. Displaying the inspection data together with the reference inspection data makes it easier to identify defective terminal fittings.

[0062] Furthermore, the control program for the connector inspection device of the present invention controls a connector inspection device 100 using a connector inspection jig 10. Here, the jig includes a housing 1, a first cover 2, a second cover 3, a first pin 4, a second pin 5, a sliding plate 6, a biasing member 7, and a force sensor 8. The first cover 2 is fixed to one end of the housing 1. The second cover 3 is fixed to the other end of the housing 1. The connector inspection jig 10 includes a plurality of first pins 4. Each first pin 4 has a terminal portion 4a at one end. Each first pin 4 also has a flange portion 4b at the other end. Each first pin 4 is housed in the housing 1 such that the terminal portion 4a is exposed from the first cover 2. The lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover 2 in the plurality of terminal portions 4a are different from each other. The second pin 5 has a contact portion 5a at one end. The contact portion 5a contacts the first pin 4. Furthermore, the second pin 5 has a body portion 5b at its other end. The body portion 5b is fixed to the second cover 3. Multiple second pins 5 corresponding to multiple first pins 4 are housed in the housing 1. The sliding plate 6 has multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins 5 passes. The sliding plate 6 is attached to the second cover 3 so that it can be moved closer to and further away from the second cover. The biasing member 7 is provided between the flange portion 4b and the sliding plate 6. Multiple biasing members 7 bias each of the multiple first pins in a direction away from the sliding plate 6. The force sensor 8 measures the pressing force. Here, the pressing force is the force with which the multiple biasing members 7 press against the sliding plate 6. The control program of the connector inspection device controls the connector inspection device 100. In this control, the control program of the connector inspection device causes the connector inspection device 100 to execute a process to control the position of the housing 1. In this control system, the position of the housing 1 is controlled so that one end is either closer to or further away from the connector 90 under inspection. The control program of the connector inspection device also instructs the connector inspection device 100 to acquire the pressing force. This pressing force is the pressing force when the position of the housing 1 is changed. The control program of the connector inspection device then instructs the connector inspection device 100 to display the inspection data.The inspection data shows the relationship between the position of the housing 1 relative to the connector 90 under inspection and the pressing force.

[0063] With this configuration, as the housing 1 is gradually brought closer to the connector 90 under inspection, the terminal portions 4a are sequentially fitted onto the terminal fittings of the connector 90 under inspection, according to the length of the exposed portion. The pressing force is then monitored using the force sensor 8. If the terminal fittings are in good condition, the pressing force will remain within the normal range of the reference value. On the other hand, if the terminal fittings are defective, the pressing force will fall outside the normal range. In the connector inspection jig 10, each terminal portion 4a contacts or fits onto the terminal fittings one by one, thus identifying the defective terminal fittings.

[0064] The present invention also includes a program that causes a computer to execute the processing of the first embodiment described above, and a recording medium storing said program. Examples of recording media that can be used include magnetic disks, magnetic tapes, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memory, and the like.

[0065] The present invention has been described above with the first embodiment as an exemplary example. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. That is, the present invention can be applied in various forms that can be understood by those skilled in the art, within the scope of the present invention.

[0066] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following:

[0067] (Note 1) Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins are housed in the housing, each having a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, such that each of the plurality of terminal portions is exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. A plurality of biasing members are provided between the flange portion and the sliding plate, each of the plurality of first pins biasing in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by multiple biasing members to the sliding plate, It has, The lengths of the portions exposed from the first cover in the multiple terminal portions are different from each other. A connector inspection jig characterized by the following features.

[0068] (Note 2) The length exposed from the first cover changes according to the arrangement of the first pins. The connector inspection jig described in Appendix 1, characterized by the features described herein.

[0069] (Note 3) In the plurality of the first pins, As the length exposed from the first cover decreases, the biasing force of the corresponding biasing member increases. A connector inspection jig as described in Appendix 1 or 2, characterized by the features described herein.

[0070] (Note 4) The first pin and the second pin are conductors, An inspection device for inspecting the connector under inspection is connected to the other end of the second pin. A connector inspection jig characterized by any one of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0071] (Note 5) A connector inspection jig described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4, Position control means for controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, A pressing force calculation means calculates the pressing force that the biasing member applies to the sliding plate based on the output of the force sensor when the position of the housing is changed, A display means for displaying inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force, A connector inspection device characterized by having the following features.

[0072] (Note 6) The system includes a means for acquiring reference inspection data, which acquires the inspection data obtained when the reference connector under inspection is inspected, as reference inspection data. The aforementioned display means, Display the aforementioned standard inspection data. The connector inspection device described in Appendix 5, characterized by the features described herein.

[0073] (Note 7) The system includes a determination unit that compares the inspection data with the reference inspection data to determine whether each terminal fitting of the connector under inspection is normal or defective. The connector inspection device described in Appendix 6, characterized by the features described herein.

[0074] (Note 8) The connector inspection jig described in Appendix 4, Position control means for controlling the position of the housing, A continuity testing means for checking whether there is continuity between the connector under test and each of the terminal portions, A connector inspection device characterized by having the following features.

[0075] (Note 9) A connector inspection method using a connector inspection device and a connector inspection jig, The aforementioned connector inspection jig is Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins are housed in the housing, each having a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, with the terminal portion exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having a through hole through which the second pin passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. A plurality of biasing members are sandwiched between the flange portion and the sliding plate, and each of the first pins biases in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the force with which multiple biasing members press against the sliding plate, It has, Multiple of the aforementioned first pins are, The lengths of the terminal portions exposed from the first cover are different from each other. The connector inspection device, The position of the housing is controlled so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection. Based on the output of the force sensor when the position of the housing is changed, the pressing force at which the biasing member presses the sliding plate is calculated. The system displays inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force. A connector inspection method characterized by the following features.

[0076] (Note 10) The connector inspection device, The inspection data obtained when inspecting the standard connector under inspection is acquired as standard inspection data. Display the aforementioned standard inspection data. The connector inspection method described in Appendix 9, characterized by the features described herein.

[0077] (Note 11) The connector inspection device, The inspection data is compared with the reference inspection data to determine whether the connector under inspection is a good product or a defective product. The connector inspection method according to appendix 9 or 10, characterized by the features described herein.

[0078] (Note 12) The position of the housing is controlled so that the shortest of the terminal portions fits into the terminal fitting of the connector under test. The value of the pressing force when the housing is gradually separated from the connector under inspection is compared with the pressing force of the reference inspection data, and based on the difference, the terminal fitting that is not properly secured to the housing is identified. The connector inspection method described in Appendix 9 to 11, characterized by the features described herein.

[0079] (Note 13) A control program for a connector inspection device that controls a connector inspection device that performs connector inspection using a connector inspection jig, The aforementioned connector inspection jig is Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins are housed in the housing, each having a terminal portion at one end and a flange portion at the other end, with the terminal portion exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having a through hole through which the second pin passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. A plurality of biasing members are sandwiched between the flange portion and the sliding plate, and each of the first pins biases in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by multiple biasing members to the sliding plate, It has, Multiple of the aforementioned first pins are, The lengths of the terminal portions exposed from the first cover are different from each other. The connector inspection device, A process of controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, A process for obtaining the pressing force when the position of the housing is changed, A process to display inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force, A control program for a connector inspection device, characterized by its execution. [Explanation of symbols]

[0080] 1 Housing 2. First cover 3. Second cover 4. First pin 5. Second pin 6. Sliding plate 7. Biasing member 8 Force Sensors 10 Connector inspection jig 90 Connectors under inspection

Claims

1. Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins housed in the housing are provided with a terminal portion at one end, a flange portion at the other end, and an intermediate portion connecting the terminal portion and the flange portion, such that at least a portion of the intermediate portion and the terminal portion are exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. For each of the plurality of first pins, a plurality of biasing members are provided between the flange portion of the first pin and the sliding plate, and bias the first pin in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by multiple biasing members to the sliding plate, It has, In the plurality of the first pins, the distance from the first cover to the tip of each terminal portion before inserting the first pin into the connector under test is different from that of the others. A connector inspection jig characterized by the following features.

2. In a plurality of the first pins, the distance from the first cover to the tip of the terminal portion of the first pin before insertion of the first pin into the connector under test changes according to the arrangement of the first pins. The connector inspection jig according to feature 1.

3. Among the multiple first pins, the shorter the distance from the first cover to the tip of the terminal portion of the first pin before insertion of the first pin into the connector under test, the greater the biasing force of the biasing member corresponding to the first pin. The connector inspection jig according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first pin and the second pin are conductors, An inspection device for inspecting the connector under inspection is connected to the other end of the second pin. The connector inspection jig according to claim 1 or 2.

5. A connector inspection jig according to claim 1 or 2, Position control means for controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, A pressing force acquisition means for acquiring the pressing force measured by the force sensor when the position of the housing is changed, A display means for displaying inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force, A connector inspection device characterized by having the following features.

6. The system includes a means for acquiring reference inspection data, which acquires the inspection data obtained when the reference connector under inspection is inspected, as reference inspection data. The aforementioned display means, Display the aforementioned standard inspection data. The connector inspection device according to feature 5.

7. The system includes a determination unit that compares the inspection data with the reference inspection data to determine whether each terminal fitting of the connector under inspection is normal or defective. The connector inspection device according to claim 6.

8. A connector inspection method using a connector inspection device and a connector inspection jig, The aforementioned connector inspection jig is Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins housed in the housing are provided with a terminal portion at one end, a flange portion at the other end, and an intermediate portion connecting the terminal portion and the flange portion, such that at least a portion of the intermediate portion and the terminal portion are exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. For each of the plurality of first pins, a plurality of biasing members are provided between the flange portion of the first pin and the sliding plate, and bias the first pin in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by multiple biasing members to the sliding plate, It has, In the plurality of the first pins, the distance from the first cover to the tip of each terminal portion before inserting the first pin into the connector under test is different from one another. The connector inspection device, The position of the housing is controlled so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection. The pressing force is obtained when the position of the housing is changed. The system displays inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force. A connector inspection method characterized by the following features.

9. The connector inspection device, The inspection data obtained when inspecting the standard connector under inspection is acquired as standard inspection data. Display the aforementioned standard inspection data. The connector inspection method according to feature 8.

10. A control program for a connector inspection device that performs connector inspection using a connector inspection jig, The aforementioned connector inspection jig is Housing and A first cover fixed to one end of the housing, A second cover fixed to the other end of the housing, A plurality of first pins housed in the housing are provided with a terminal portion at one end, a flange portion at the other end, and an intermediate portion connecting the terminal portion and the flange portion, such that at least a portion of the intermediate portion and the terminal portion are exposed from the first cover. It has a contact portion at one end that contacts the first pin and a body portion at the other end that is fixed to the second cover, and a plurality of second pins housed in the housing, A sliding plate is attached to the second cover, having multiple through holes through which each of the multiple second pins passes, and allowing for proximity to and separation from the second cover. For each of the plurality of first pins, a plurality of biasing members are provided between the flange portion of the first pin and the sliding plate, and bias the first pin in a direction away from the sliding plate, A force sensor that measures the pressing force applied by multiple biasing members to the sliding plate, It has, In the plurality of the first pins, the distance from the first cover to the tip of each terminal portion before inserting the first pin into the connector under test is different from one another. The connector inspection device, A process of controlling the position of the housing so that one end of the housing is closer to or further away from the connector under inspection, A process for obtaining the pressing force when the position of the housing is changed, A process to display inspection data showing the relationship between the position of the housing relative to the connector under inspection and the pressing force, A control program for a connector inspection device, characterized by its execution.

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