Charging connector

Abstract

To provide a charging connector capable of miniaturizing a housing.SOLUTION: A charging connector 10 includes: a housing 11; a first power terminal 12 and a second power terminal 13 which are accommodated in the housing 11; a plurality of signal terminals 15 accommodated in the housing 11; and temperature sensors 38 mounted respectively on the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are provided in parallel along a width direction X perpendicular to a fitting direction of an external connector. The plurality of signal terminals 15 are provided only at one side in a thickness direction Z with respect to the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. In addition, the temperature sensors 38 are respectively mounted on side surfaces in the width direction X of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a charging connector.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle-mounted charging connector. The charging connector includes a housing, a pair of power terminals housed in the housing, and a plurality of signal terminals housed in the housing. An external connector of an external power supply device is fitted to the housing. Opposite terminals of the external connector are connected to the pair of power terminals and the plurality of signal terminals, respectively. Further, the charging connector includes a temperature sensor. Based on the temperature information output from the temperature sensor, various controls related to charging can be performed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The inventor has focused on the arrangement of a pair of power terminals, each signal terminal, and the temperature sensor, and has been studying how to make the housing smaller. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a charging connector that enables miniaturization of the housing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The charging connector of this disclosure is an in-vehicle charging connector comprising a housing, a pair of power terminals housed in the housing, a plurality of signal terminals housed in the housing, and a temperature sensor attached to each of the pair of power terminals, wherein the mating terminals of the external connector are connected to each of the pair of power terminals and the plurality of signal terminals along the mating direction of the external connector that fits into the housing, the pair of power terminals are arranged side by side along a first direction perpendicular to the mating direction, the plurality of signal terminals are provided on only one side of the pair of power terminals in the second direction, with respect to the pair of power terminals being a second direction perpendicular to each of the mating direction and the first direction, and the temperature sensor is attached to the side of each power terminal in the first direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The charging connector of this disclosure has the effect of miniaturizing the housing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the charging status of a vehicle equipped with a charging connector. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the charging connector in the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the charging connector in the same configuration. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a rear view of the charging connector in the same configuration. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view of the charging connector in the same configuration. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 in Figure 5. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 in Figure 5. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a rear view partially showing the internal structure of the housing in a charging connector of the same type. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the first and second power terminals in the same configuration. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the first position-holding member in the same embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [Description of Embodiments in this Disclosure] First, the embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described. The charging connector in this disclosure is [1] An in-vehicle charging connector comprising a housing, a pair of power terminals housed in the housing, a plurality of signal terminals housed in the housing, and a temperature sensor attached to each of the pair of power terminals, wherein the mating terminals of an external connector that fits into the housing are connected to the pair of power terminals and the plurality of signal terminals, respectively, along the mating direction of the external connector, the pair of power terminals are arranged side by side along a first direction perpendicular to the mating direction, the plurality of signal terminals are provided on only one side of the pair of power terminals in the second direction, with respect to the pair of power terminals being a second direction perpendicular to both the mating direction and the first direction, and the temperature sensor is attached to the side of each power terminal in the first direction.

[0009] In this configuration, multiple signal terminals are provided on only one side of a pair of power terminals in the second direction. This allows for miniaturization of the housing in the second direction. Furthermore, the temperature sensor is mounted on the first-direction side of each power terminal. This allows for even further miniaturization of the housing in the second direction.

[0010] [2] The temperature sensor has lead wires, and each of the plurality of signal terminals has a signal wire connected to it, and at least one of the plurality of signal wires and the lead wire are led out of the housing from the same outlet. With this configuration, since the signal wire and the lead wire are led out from the same outlet, it is possible to simplify the routing of the signal wire and the lead wire.

[0011] [3] The charging connector comprises a pair of intermediate terminals that are bolted to each of the pair of power terminals, each of which power terminals is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing, the housing has a first opening through which a jig can be inserted, and each of the power terminals has a jig hole through which the jig inserted into the first opening can be inserted.

[0012] In this configuration, when assembling the charging connector, after housing the power terminals in the housing, a jig is inserted into the jig hole of the power terminal through the first opening of the housing. This makes it possible to restrict the relative movement of the power terminals with respect to the housing using the jig. Therefore, when bolting the power terminals to the intermediate terminals while they are housed in the housing, it is possible to suppress the rotation of the power terminals. Furthermore, once the charging connector is assembled, each power terminal is allowed to move relative to the housing. Therefore, by moving relative to the housing, each power terminal can absorb vibrations transmitted from the intermediate terminals. As a result, it is possible to suppress bolt loosening due to vehicle vibrations.

[0013] [4] The charging connector includes a position-holding member that holds the position of the power terminals in the mating direction, the housing has a second opening that opens in a direction intersecting the mating direction, the position-holding member has an insertion portion that is inserted into the second opening, the insertion portion has a contact portion that the power terminals contact in the mating direction, and the insertion portion contacts the edge of the second opening in the mating direction.

[0014] According to this configuration, when the mating terminal is inserted into the power terminal, the contact portion of the position holding member receives a load from the power terminal. At that time, the load received by the position holding member is applied to the contact portion between the insertion portion of the position holding member and the second opening of the housing. Therefore, it is possible to improve the strength against the insertion of the mating terminal.

[0015] [5] Each of the power terminals is a press terminal formed by press working from a plate material. Each of the power terminals includes a first connection portion to which the mating terminal is connected, a second connection portion to which a relay terminal connected to an electric wire is connected, a connecting portion that connects the first connection portion and the second connection portion, and a pair of extending wall portions formed by being bent with respect to the connecting portion. Each of the pair of extending wall portions abuts against the contact portion in the fitting direction.

[0016] According to this configuration, it becomes a preferable configuration in which the insertion load of the mating terminal is received by the contact portion that abuts against the pair of extending wall portions of the power terminal. In addition, since each power terminal is a press terminal, it is possible to improve the manufacturability of the power terminal as compared with the case where the power terminal is, for example, a cutting terminal.

[0017] [6] The connecting portion has a first side surface that is one plate surface of the connecting portion and a second side surface that is the back surface of the first side surface. Each of the power terminals is provided such that the first side surfaces thereof face each other in the first direction, and the temperature sensor is attached to the second side surface. According to this configuration, the temperature sensor is attached to the outside in the first direction with respect to the connecting portion. Therefore, it is possible to easily arrange the lead wire of the temperature sensor.

[0018] [7] Each of the pair of extending wall portions extends from the connecting portion toward the first side surface side, and the insertion portion is located on the first side surface side with respect to the connecting portion. According to this configuration, it becomes a preferable configuration in which the insertion portion is arranged on the first side surface side of the connecting portion and the temperature sensor is arranged on the second side surface side of the connecting portion.

[0019] [Details of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure] Specific examples of the charging connectors of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, some parts of the configuration may be exaggerated or simplified for the sake of explanation. Also, the dimensional ratios of each part may differ in each drawing. Furthermore, the terms "perpendicular" and "orthogonal" in this specification include not only cases where they are strictly perpendicular or orthogonal, but also cases where they are approximately perpendicular or orthogonal within the range that allows the function and effect of this embodiment to be achieved.

[0020] Furthermore, as used in this specification, the term "tubular" includes not only those with a continuous circumferential wall formed around the entire circumference, but also those formed by combining multiple parts, and those with a notch or other cutout in the circumferential direction, such as a C-shape. In addition, the shape of a "tubular" includes circular, elliptical, and polygonal shapes with pointed or rounded corners.

[0021] Furthermore, in this specification, "facing" means that two surfaces or members are in a position where they face each other, and includes not only cases where they are completely facing each other, but also cases where they are partially facing each other. Furthermore, in this specification, "facing" includes both cases where a member other than the two parts is interposed between the two parts, and cases where nothing is interposed between the two parts.

[0022] (Regarding vehicle V equipped with a charging connector 10) Figure 1 schematically shows a state in which a vehicle V, such as a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle, is being charged from an external power supply device 100. The vehicle V is equipped with the charging connector 10 of this embodiment. An external connector 101 connected to the external power supply device 100 is connected to the charging connector 10. The charging connector 10 is connected to a battery BT mounted on the vehicle V via a wire harness W including an electric wire 24, which will be described later.

[0023] (Configuration of charging connector 10) As shown in Figure 3, the charging connector 10 comprises a housing 11, a first power terminal 12, a second power terminal 13, a ground terminal 14, and a plurality of signal terminals 15. The first power terminal 12 is a power terminal on the positive potential side. The second power terminal 13 is a power terminal on the negative potential side. The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, the ground terminal 14, and each signal terminal 15 are housed in the housing 11. The charging connector 10 also comprises a first position-holding member 16 that holds the positions of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13, and a second position-holding member 17 that holds the positions of the ground terminal 14 and each signal terminal 15.

[0024] In each drawing, the X, Y, and Z axes are shown as being orthogonal to each other. In the following explanation, the direction along the X axis will be referred to as the "width direction X of the charging connector 10" or simply as the "width direction X". The direction along the Y axis will be referred to as the "insertion / removal direction Y of the charging connector 10" or simply as the "width direction X". The direction along the Z axis will be referred to as the "thickness direction Z of the charging connector 10" or simply as the "thickness direction Z".

[0025] As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the charging connector 10 includes a first relay terminal 21 connected to the first power terminal 12, a second relay terminal 22 connected to the second power terminal 13, and a third relay terminal 23 connected to the ground terminal 14. The first relay terminal 21 is fixed to the first power terminal 12 by bolting. The second relay terminal 22 is fixed to the second power terminal 13 by bolting. The third relay terminal 23 is fixed to the ground terminal 14 by bolting.

[0026] A wire 24 is connected to each of the first relay terminal 21 and the second relay terminal 22. Each wire 24 is a large-diameter high-voltage wire capable of handling high voltage and high current. The cross-sectional area of ​​the wire 24 is set to, for example, 70 square millimeters or more. A wire 25 is connected to the third relay terminal 23. Note that in Figure 4, the illustration of wires 24 and 25 is omitted for the sake of simplicity.

[0027] (Configuration of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13) As shown in Figures 3 and 7, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are arranged side by side in the width direction X. Furthermore, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are configured to be symmetrical with respect to the center line C1 in the width direction X of the charging connector 10.

[0028] The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are the same component and have the same shape. Therefore, the components of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 will be described using the same reference numerals. The second power terminal 13 is formed by rotating the first power terminal 12 180 degrees around the axis along the insertion / removal direction Y. The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are press-formed terminals formed from sheet metal by press processing. Examples of materials used to form the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 include metal materials such as copper-based and aluminum-based materials.

[0029] The configurations of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 will be explained using the first power terminal 12 as an example. As shown in Figure 10, the first power terminal 12 has a first connection portion 31, a second connection portion 32, a connecting portion 33, and a pair of extending wall portions 34.

[0030] The first connecting portion 31 is cylindrical in shape and extends along the insertion / removal direction Y. More specifically, the first connecting portion 31 has a plurality of elastic pieces 31a. The plurality of elastic pieces 31a are arranged in an annular shape when viewed from the insertion / removal direction Y. Each elastic piece 31a is configured to bend elastically in the radial direction of the first connecting portion 31. A mating terminal (not shown) of the aforementioned external connector 101 is inserted into the first connecting portion 31 along the insertion / removal direction Y. Each elastic piece 31a makes radial contact with the mating terminal. This enables electrical conductivity between the first power terminal 12 and the mating terminal.

[0031] The second connection portion 32 of the first power terminal 12 is the part that is bolted to the first relay terminal 21. The second connection portion 32 of the second power terminal 13 is the part that is bolted to the second relay terminal 22. The second connection portion 32 is, for example, a plate shape perpendicular to the insertion / removal direction Y. The second connection portion 32 has a through hole 35 through which a bolt B is inserted along the insertion / removal direction Y. The through hole 35 penetrates the second connection portion 32 along the insertion / removal direction Y. A nut 36 is provided in the second connection portion 32 at a position corresponding to the through hole 35, into which the bolt B is screwed.

[0032] The connecting portion 33 connects the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. The connecting portion 33 extends along the insertion / removal direction Y. The connecting portion 33 is, for example, plate-shaped and perpendicular to the width direction X. The second connecting portion 32 is bent at approximately a right angle to the connecting portion 33.

[0033] The connecting portion 33 has a first side surface 33a, which is one of the plate surfaces of the connecting portion 33, and a second side surface 33b, which is the back surface of the first side surface 33a. The first side surface 33a and the second side surface 33b are, for example, perpendicular to the width direction X.

[0034] As shown in Figure 8, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are provided so that their first sides 33a face each other in the width direction X. That is, the second sides 33b of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 face outward in the width direction X. In addition, each of the pair of extending wall portions 34 extends from the connecting portion 33 toward the first side 33a.

[0035] As shown in Figures 7 and 10, the pair of extension wall portions 34 extend in the same direction from both ends of the connecting portion 33 in the thickness direction Z. Each extension wall portion 34 is plate-shaped and perpendicular to the thickness direction Z. Each extension wall portion 34 is bent at approximately a right angle to the connecting portion 33. Each extension wall portion 34 faces each other in the thickness direction Z. The lengths of each extension wall portion 34 in the width direction X are equal. Also, the lengths of each extension wall portion 34 in the insertion / removal direction Y are equal. In the insertion / removal direction Y, each extension wall portion 34 is provided between the first connecting portion 31 and the second connecting portion 32. Each extension wall portion 34 faces the second connecting portion 32 in the insertion / removal direction Y.

[0036] Each extended wall portion 34 has a jig hole 37. The jig hole 37 penetrates each extended wall portion 34 in the thickness direction Z. The jig holes 37 in each extended wall portion 34 are located at positions that overlap each other in the thickness direction Z. A rod-shaped jig P shown in Figure 7 can be inserted into each jig hole 37.

[0037] As shown in Figure 10, a temperature sensor 38 is attached to the first power terminal 12. For example, an NTC thermistor, PTC thermistor, or PT sensor can be used as the temperature sensor 38. The temperature sensor 38 is held by a retaining member 39, which is fixed to the connecting portion 33 by a screw S. The retaining member 39 and the temperature sensor 38 are attached to the second side surface 33b of the connecting portion 33. The retaining member 39 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal. The temperature sensor 38 has a lead wire 38a. The temperature sensor 38 outputs the detected temperature information through the lead wire 38a. Similarly, a retaining member 39 and a temperature sensor 38 are also attached to the second power terminal 13.

[0038] (Configuration of ground terminal 14) As shown in Figure 3, the ground terminal 14 has a first connection portion 41, a second connection portion 42, a connecting portion 43, and a pair of extended wall portions 44. The ground terminal 14 is a press-formed terminal formed from a sheet metal by press working. Examples of materials used to form the ground terminal 14 include metal materials such as copper-based or aluminum-based materials.

[0039] The first connection portion 41 is cylindrical in shape and extends along the insertion / removal direction Y. The mating terminal (not shown) of the aforementioned external connector 101 is inserted into the first connection portion 41 along the insertion / removal direction Y. This establishes electrical conductivity between the ground terminal 14 and the mating terminal.

[0040] The second connecting portion 42 is the part that is bolted to the third relay terminal 23. The second connecting portion 42 is, for example, a plate-shaped part perpendicular to the insertion / removal direction Y. The second connecting portion 42 has a through hole 45 through which the bolt B is inserted along the insertion / removal direction Y. The through hole 45 penetrates the second connecting portion 42 along the insertion / removal direction Y. A nut 46 is provided in the second connecting portion 42 at a position corresponding to the through hole 45, into which the bolt B is screwed.

[0041] The connecting portion 43 connects the first connecting portion 41 and the second connecting portion 42. The connecting portion 43 extends along the insertion / removal direction Y. The connecting portion 43 is, for example, plate-shaped and perpendicular to the thickness direction Z. The second connecting portion 42 is bent at approximately a right angle to the connecting portion 43.

[0042] The pair of extending wall sections 44 extend in the same direction from both ends of the connecting section 43 in the width direction X. Each extending wall section 44 is plate-shaped and perpendicular to the width direction X. Each extending wall section 44 is bent at approximately a right angle to the connecting section 43. Each extending wall section 44 faces each other in the width direction X. The lengths of each extending wall section 44 in the thickness direction Z are equal. Also, the lengths of each extending wall section 44 in the insertion / removal direction Y are equal.

[0043] As shown in Figure 7, the connecting portion 43 has a jig hole 47. The jig hole 47 penetrates the connecting portion 43 in the thickness direction Z. The jig hole 47 is provided between the base ends of each extending wall portion 44. A rod-shaped jig P can be inserted into the jig hole 47.

[0044] (Regarding the arrangement of each terminal) In the following, one side in the thickness direction Z will be referred to as the "upper side," and the other side in the thickness direction Z will be referred to as the "lower side." That is, the terms "upper" and "lower" used in this specification do not necessarily mean upper and lower in the direction of gravity.

[0045] The ground terminal 14 is located below, for example, the first power terminals 12 and the second power terminals 13, which are aligned in the width direction X. Also, the ground terminal 14 is located between the first power terminals 12 and the second power terminals 13 when viewed from the thickness direction Z.

[0046] Below the first power terminal 12, for example, two signal terminals 15 are arranged. Below the second power terminal 13, for example, two signal terminals 15 are arranged. Each signal terminal 15 is arranged so that its length is aligned with the insertion / removal direction Y. Each signal terminal 15 and the ground terminal 14 are aligned, for example, in the width direction X.

[0047] (Housing 11 configuration) As shown in Figure 6, the housing 11 has a first end 51, which is one end in the insertion / removal direction Y, and a second end 52, which is the other end in the insertion / removal direction Y. The external connector 101 is fitted into the housing 11 from the first end 51 side. The second end 52 is open in the insertion / removal direction Y. The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, the ground terminal 14, and each signal terminal 15 are housed in the housing 11 through the opening in the second end 52. As shown in Figure 2, an actuator 110 is provided on the upper side of the housing 11. The actuator 110 is not shown in the drawings from Figure 3 onward.

[0048] As shown in Figures 3 and 7, the housing 11 has a first housing section 53a for housing the first power terminal 12 and a second housing section 53b for housing the second power terminal 13. The housing 11 also has a third housing section 53c for housing the ground terminal 14 and a plurality of fourth housing sections 53d, each housing a plurality of signal terminals 15.

[0049] The positional relationship between the first housing section 53a, the second housing section 53b, the third housing section 53c, and each of the fourth housing sections 53d is the same as the arrangement of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, the ground terminal 14, and each of the signal terminals 15 described above. That is, the first housing section 53a and the second housing section 53b are arranged side by side in the width direction X. The third housing section 53c is located midway between the first housing section 53a and the second housing section 53b, and is positioned below them. Below the first housing section 53a, for example, two fourth housing sections 53d are provided. Below the second housing section 53b, for example, two fourth housing sections 53d are provided. Each of the fourth housing sections 53d and the third housing section 53c are arranged side by side in the width direction X.

[0050] The first power terminal 12 is housed in the first housing 53a so as to be movable in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. In other words, the first power terminal 12 is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing 11 in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. Furthermore, the first power terminal 12 is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 11 within a predetermined angular range about a pivot axis along the insertion / removal direction Y. The pivot axis for this relative rotation coincides, for example, with the axis of the first connection portion 31 of the first power terminal 12.

[0051] The second power terminal 13 is housed in the second housing section 53b so as to be movable in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. In other words, the second power terminal 13 is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing 11 in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. Furthermore, the second power terminal 13 is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 11 within a predetermined angular range centered on a pivot axis along the insertion / removal direction Y. The pivot axis for this relative rotation coincides, for example, with the axis of the first connection portion 31 of the second power terminal 13.

[0052] The third housing section 53c houses a ground terminal 14 so as to be movable in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. In other words, the ground terminal 14 is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing 11 in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. Furthermore, the ground terminal 14 is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 11 within a predetermined angular range centered on a pivot axis along the insertion / removal direction Y. The pivot axis for this relative rotation coincides, for example, with the axis of the first connection portion 41 of the ground terminal 14. In addition, each fourth housing section 53d houses a signal terminal 15.

[0053] As shown in Figure 7, the housing 11 has insulating wall portions 54 separating the first housing portion 53a and the second housing portion 53b. There are, for example, two insulating wall portions 54. The insulating wall portions 54 are, for example, flat plates perpendicular to the width direction X. Each insulating wall portion 54 extends in a direction along the opening direction of the jig hole 37. Each insulating wall portion 54 is located between the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. Each insulating wall portion 54 ensures an insulating distance between the first power terminal 12 housed in the first housing portion 53a and the second power terminal 13 housed in the second housing portion 53b. The space between each insulating wall portion 54 and the third housing portion 53c are in communication via a through hole 55.

[0054] As shown in Figures 5 and 7, the housing 11 has first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c through which a jig P can be inserted. As shown in Figure 7, the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c are provided corresponding to the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14, respectively. Specifically, the jig P for the first power terminal 12 is inserted through the first opening 56a. The jig P for the second power terminal 13 is inserted through the first opening 56b. The jig P for the ground terminal 14 is inserted through the first opening 56c. The first openings 56a and 56b have substantially the same shape as the jig hole 37 when viewed from the thickness direction Z. Also, the first opening 56c has substantially the same shape as the jig hole 47 when viewed from the thickness direction Z.

[0055] Each of the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c is provided on one side of the housing 11 in the thickness direction Z. Each of the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c is provided, for example, on the upper surface of the housing 11. Each of the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c opens in the same direction. Specifically, each of the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c opens upward in the thickness direction Z relative to the outside of the housing 11. The first opening 56a connects the first housing portion 53a to the outside of the housing 11. The first opening 56b connects the second housing portion 53b to the outside of the housing 11. The first opening 56c connects the space between each insulating wall portion 54 to the outside of the housing 11. Each of the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c is provided, for example, aligned along the width direction X.

[0056] The housing 11 has a second opening 57a and a third opening 57b for mounting the first position-holding member 16. The second opening 57a and the third opening 57b are provided on one side of the housing 11 in the thickness direction Z. The second opening 57a and the third opening 57b are provided, for example, on the upper surface of the housing 11. The second opening 57a and the third opening 57b open upward in the thickness direction Z relative to the outside of the housing 11.

[0057] There are two second openings 57a. One of the two second openings 57a connects the first housing portion 53a to the outside of the housing 11. The other of the two second openings 57a connects the second housing portion 53b to the outside of the housing 11. Each second opening 57a is located on the second end 52 side of the first openings 56a, 56b. The third opening 57b connects the space between each insulating wall portion 54 to the outside of the housing 11. The third opening 57b is located on the second end 52 side of the first opening 56c. The second openings 57a and the third openings 57b are arranged side by side, for example, along the width direction X.

[0058] (Configuration of the first position-holding member 16) As shown in Figures 8 and 11, the first position-holding member 16 has a covering portion 61 that covers the upper parts of each second opening 57a and third opening 57b, a pair of insertion portions 62, and a pair of first engagement portions 63. The covering portion 61 covers both the second opening 57a and the third opening 57b together. Each insertion portion 62 and each first engagement portion 63 extends downward from the covering portion 61. Each insertion portion 62 is inserted into each second opening 57a along the thickness direction Z. As a result, one insertion portion 62 is inserted into the first housing portion 53a, and the other insertion portion 62 is inserted into the second housing portion 53b.

[0059] As shown in Figure 8, a pair of first engaging portions 63 are inserted between each insulating wall portion 54 through the third opening 57b. The housing 11 has a second engaging portion 58 between the pair of insulating wall portions 54. The second engaging portion 58 is provided to protrude from the opposing sides of each insulating wall portion 54. Each first engaging portion 63 is hooked onto each second engaging portion 58 in the upper direction Z of the thickness. This fixes the first position-holding member 16 to the housing 11.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6, the insertion portion 62 is located between each extension wall portion 34 of the first power terminal 12 and the second connection portion 32. In Figure 6, direction D indicates the mating direction D of the external connector 101 and the insertion direction D of the mating terminal. The insertion portion 62 has a first contact portion 64 that the first power terminal 12 abuts against in the insertion direction D. In this embodiment, each of the extension wall portions 34 abuts against the first contact portion 64 in the insertion direction D. The insertion portion 62 abuts against the edge of the second opening 57a in the insertion direction D. The insertion portion 62 also covers the second connection portion 32 when viewed from the insertion direction D. The insertion portion 62 is located on the first side surface 33a side with respect to the connecting portion 33 (see Figure 8). The relationship between the second power terminal 13 and the insertion portion 62 is the same as the relationship between the first power terminal 12 and the insertion portion 62.

[0061] (Configuration of the second position-holding member 17) As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the second position-holding member 17 has a main body portion 71 that covers the opening of the second end portion 52 in the insertion / removal direction Y, and a locking piece 72 extending from the main body portion 71. The locking piece 72 is locked onto a locking projection 59 formed on the outer surface of the housing 11. This fixes the second position-holding member 17 to the housing 11.

[0062] The main body 71 has an opening 73 that opens in the insertion / removal direction Y. The opening 73 is provided corresponding to the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14, respectively. The second connection portion 32 of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are exposed to the outside through the opening 73. The second connection portion 42 of the ground terminal 14 is also exposed to the outside through the opening 73.

[0063] As shown in Figure 3, the second position-holding member 17 has a second contact portion 74 and a third contact portion 75. The second contact portion 74 and the third contact portion 75 extend, for example, from the main body portion 71 to the inside of the housing 11 along the insertion / removal direction Y. Multiple third contact portions 75 are provided, each corresponding to one of the signal terminals 15.

[0064] As shown in Figure 8, the second contact portion 74 is provided at a position corresponding to the ground terminal 14. The tip of the second contact portion 74 contacts the ground terminal 14 in the direction along the insertion / removal direction Y. As shown in Figure 6, the tip of the third contact portion 75 contacts the signal terminal 15 in the insertion direction D.

[0065] As shown in Figure 4, the second position-holding member 17 has an insulating wall 76 that extends outward from the main body 71 along the insertion / removal direction Y. The insulating wall 76 electrically insulates the first relay terminal 21, the second relay terminal 22, and the third relay terminal 23. The main body 71 is also provided with a pair of outlets 77 that penetrate the main body 71 along the insertion / removal direction Y.

[0066] As shown in Figures 4 and 9, a signal wire 15a is connected to each of the multiple signal terminals 15. In Figures 4 and 9, each signal terminal 15 is schematically shown by a dashed line. Also, in Figure 9, the second position holding member 17 is shown partially broken. Two signal wires 15a and one lead wire 38a are drawn out from each outlet 77 to the outside of the housing 11. The lead wire 38a is routed downward from the temperature sensor 38 attached to the second side surface 33b of the connecting portion 33. The lead wire 38a is also passed between the third contact portion 75 and the inner surface of the housing 11 in the width direction X.

[0067] Next, we will describe an example of assembling the charging connector 10. First, the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 are housed inside the housing 11 through the opening at the second end 52.

[0068] Next, the first position-holding member 16 is assembled to the housing 11 from a direction along the thickness direction Z. In this state, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 cannot be removed in the direction along the insertion / removal direction Y by the insertion portions 62 of the first position-holding member 16.

[0069] Next, each signal terminal 15 to which the signal line 15a is connected is housed in the housing 11 through the opening at the second end 52. Next, the second position-holding member 17 is assembled to the housing 11. At this time, the signal wire 15a and the lead wire 38a of the temperature sensor 38 are passed through the outlet 77.

[0070] Next, the jig P is inserted into each jig hole 37 of the first power terminal 12 through the first opening 56a. The jig P is also inserted into each jig hole 37 of the second power terminal 13 through the first opening 56b. The jig P is also inserted into each jig hole 47 of the ground terminal 14 through the first opening 56c. The insertion of each jig P restricts the rotation of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14.

[0071] Next, the first relay terminal 21 is fixed to the second connection part 32 of the first power terminal 12 with bolt B. The second relay terminal 22 is fixed to the second connection part 32 of the second power terminal 13 with bolt B. The third relay terminal 23 is fixed to the second connection part 42 of the ground terminal 14 with bolt B. The rotation of each of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 is restricted by the jig P, so that they do not rotate together when the bolts are tightened.

[0072] After the bolts for the first relay terminal 21, the second relay terminal 22, and the third relay terminal 23 are tightened, each jig P is removed. This allows rotation within a predetermined angular range for each of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14.

[0073] The effects of this embodiment will now be explained. (1) Multiple signal terminals 15 are provided on only one side in the thickness direction Z relative to the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. This makes it possible to miniaturize the housing 11 in the thickness direction Z. Furthermore, by providing each signal terminal 15 on the lower side in the thickness direction Z relative to the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13, it is possible to create space on the upper side of the housing 11 for arranging the actuator 110 and other parts and components not shown. In addition, the temperature sensor 38 is attached to the side in the width direction X of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. This makes it possible to further miniaturize the housing 11 in the thickness direction Z.

[0074] (2) The temperature sensor 38 has lead wires 38a. Each of the multiple signal terminals 15 is connected to a signal wire 15a. At least one of the multiple signal wires 15a and the lead wire 38a are led out of the housing 11 from the same outlet 77. With this configuration, since the signal wires 15a and the lead wire 38a are led out from the same outlet 77, it is possible to simplify the routing of the signal wires 15a and the lead wire 38a.

[0075] (3) The housing 11 has first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c through which the jig P can be inserted. The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 each have a jig hole 37 through which the jig P inserted into the first openings 56a and 56b can be inserted. The ground terminal 14 also has a jig hole 47 through which the jig P inserted into the first opening 56c can be inserted.

[0076] With this configuration, when assembling the charging connector 10, the jig P is inserted through the first opening 56a into the jig hole 37 of the first power terminal 12 inside the housing 11. This makes it possible to restrict the relative movement of the first power terminal 12 with respect to the housing 11 using the jig P. Therefore, when the first power terminal 12 is housed in the housing 11, it is possible to suppress the rotation of the first power terminal 12 when bolting the first power terminal 12 to the first relay terminal 21. Furthermore, when the charging connector 10 is assembled, the first power terminal 12 is movable relative to the housing 11. Therefore, by moving relative to the housing 11, the first power terminal 12 can absorb vibrations transmitted from the electric wire 24 and the first relay terminal 21. As a result, it is possible to suppress the loosening of the bolt B due to vehicle vibration. Similar effects can be obtained with the second power terminal 13 and the ground terminal 14.

[0077] (4) The charging connector 10 includes a first position-holding member 16 that holds the position of the first power terminal 12 in the mating direction D. The housing 11 has a second opening 57a that opens in the thickness direction Z intersecting the mating direction D. The first position-holding member 16 has an insertion portion 62 that is inserted into the second opening 57a. The insertion portion 62 has a first contact portion 64 that the first power terminal 12 abuts against in the mating direction D. The insertion portion 62 abuts against the edge of the second opening 57a in the mating direction D. With this configuration, when the mating terminal is inserted into the first power terminal 12, the first contact portion 64 of the first position-holding member 16 receives a load from the first power terminal 12. At that time, the load received by the first position-holding member 16 is applied to the contact portion between the insertion portion 62 and the second opening 57a of the housing 11. This makes it possible to improve the strength against insertion of the mating terminal. The same effect can be obtained with the second power terminal 13.

[0078] (5) The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 are press terminals formed from sheet metal by press processing. With this configuration, it is possible to improve manufacturability for each of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 compared to, for example, the case where they are cut terminals.

[0079] (6) At each of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13, the mating terminal of the external connector 101 is connected to the first connection portion 31. The first relay terminal 21 or the second relay terminal 22 connected to the electric wire 24 is connected to the second connection portion 32. The connecting portion 33 connects the first connection portion 31 and the second connection portion 32. The pair of extending wall portions 34 are formed by bending relative to the connecting portion 33. Each of the pair of extending wall portions 34 abuts against the first contact portion 64 in the fitting direction D. This configuration is suitable because the insertion load of the mating terminal is received by the first contact portion 64 which abuts against the pair of extending wall portions 34 of the first power terminal 12.

[0080] (7) The connecting portion 33 has a first side surface 33a, which is one of the plate surfaces of the connecting portion 33, and a second side surface 33b, which is the back surface of the first side surface 33a. The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are provided so that their first side surfaces 33a face each other in the width direction X. The temperature sensor 38 is attached to the second side surface 33b. With this configuration, the temperature sensor 38 is attached to the outside of the connecting portion 33 in the width direction X. Therefore, the lead wires 38a of the temperature sensor 38 can be easily routed.

[0081] (8) Each of the pair of extending wall portions 34 extends from the connecting portion 33 toward the first side surface 33a. The insertion portion 62 is located toward the first side surface 33a relative to the connecting portion 33. This configuration is preferable in which the insertion portion 62 is placed toward the first side surface 33a of the connecting portion 33 and the temperature sensor 38 is placed toward the second side surface 33b of the connecting portion 33.

[0082] (9) The jig holes 37 are provided in the extended wall portion 34. This configuration is preferable in which the jig holes 37 are provided in the extended wall portion 34 that is formed by bending the connecting portion 33 in the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13. In addition, the jig holes 37 are provided in each of the pair of extended wall portions 34. This configuration makes it possible to insert the jig P through each of the jig holes 37 of the pair of extended wall portions 34. This makes it possible to more firmly suppress the joint rotation of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 during bolt tightening by using the jig P inserted through each jig hole 37.

[0083] (10) The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are arranged side by side along the width direction X, which is the first direction. The electric wire 24 is then drawn out along the width direction X. This configuration makes it possible to miniaturize the charging connector 10 in the direction perpendicular to the width direction X.

[0084] (11) The jig holes 37 of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 each open in the same direction. With this configuration, it is possible to insert the jig P into the jig holes 37 of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 from the same direction. Therefore, it is possible to improve the workability when assembling the charging connector 10. In addition, the jig hole 47 of the ground terminal 14 also opens in the same direction as the jig holes 37. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the workability when assembling the charging connector 10.

[0085] (12) The housing 11 has an insulating wall portion 54 located between the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13, which electrically insulates the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13, and the insulating wall portion 54 extends in a direction along the opening direction of the jig hole 37. With this configuration, it is not necessary to pass the jig P inserted into the jig hole 37 through the insulating wall portion 54. This makes it possible to secure an insulating distance between the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 by the insulating wall portion 54. In addition, a pair of insulating wall portions 54 are provided side by side in the width direction X. With this configuration, it is possible to more favorably secure an insulating distance between the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 by the pair of insulating wall portions 54.

[0086] (13) The first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 have the same shape. With this configuration, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 can be treated as the same component. As a result, the number of types of components that make up the charging connector 10 can be reduced, and as a result, the complexity of component management can be suppressed.

[0087] (14) The first power terminal 12 is provided so as to be relatively movable with respect to the housing 11 in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z, which are directions intersecting with respect to the insertion direction D. With this configuration, the position of the first power terminal 12 in the insertion direction D is held by the first position holding member 16, while the first power terminal 12 is relatively movable in the width direction X and the thickness direction Z. Therefore, even if the position of the mating terminal is misaligned in the width direction X or the thickness direction Z, the first power terminal 12 moves, making it possible to reliably insert the mating terminal. The same effect can be obtained with respect to the second power terminal 13.

[0088] (15) The insertion portion 62 covers the second connection portion 32 when viewed from the insertion direction D. With this configuration, the insertion portion 62 can prevent water that enters through the opening of the first connection portion 31 from adhering to the second connection portion 32.

[0089] (16) The first position-holding member 16 has a first engagement portion 63. The housing 11 has a second engagement portion 58 between a pair of insulating wall portions 54 that engages with the first engagement portion 63 in the thickness direction Z along the opening direction of the second opening 57a. With this configuration, the engagement structure between the first position-holding member 16 and the housing 11 is provided in the dead space formed between the pair of insulating wall portions 54. Therefore, it can contribute to miniaturizing the housing 11.

[0090] (17) The housing 11 has a first end 51 which is the end into which the mating terminal is inserted, and a second end 52 which is the end opposite to the first end 51. The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, the ground terminal 14, and the signal terminal 15 are each housed in the housing 11 through an opening in the second end 52. The second position-holding member 17 is assembled to the second end 52. The second position-holding member 17 has a second contact portion 74 which the ground terminal 14 contacts in the insertion direction D, and a third contact portion 75 which the signal terminal 15 contacts in the insertion direction D. With this configuration, the second contact portion 74 of the second position-holding member 17 makes it possible to hold the position of the ground terminal 14 in the insertion direction D. Also, the third contact portion 75 of the second position-holding member 17 makes it possible to hold the position of the signal terminal 15 in the insertion direction D. Therefore, it is not necessary to separately prepare parts for holding the position of the ground terminal 14 and parts for holding the position of the signal terminal 15. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of components in the charging connector 10.

[0091] <Example of changes> This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0092] The arrangement and shape of the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 are not limited to the above embodiment and can be appropriately changed depending on the configuration of the charging connector 10. For example, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 may be arranged so that their respective second sides 33b face each other in the width direction X. Alternatively, for example, the first power terminal 12 and the second power terminal 13 may be arranged so that the first side 33a and the second side 33b of the connecting portion 33 are perpendicular to the thickness direction Z.

[0093] The temperature sensor 38 may be attached to the first side surface 33a of the connecting portion 33. The first openings 56a and 56b of the housing 11 may be formed larger than the jig hole 37. Also, the first opening 56c may be formed larger than the jig hole 47.

[0094] In the housing 11 of the above embodiment, the first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c through which the jig P is inserted are individually provided corresponding to the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14, respectively, but the design is not particularly limited to this. For example, instead of the individual first openings 56a, 56b, and 56c, a single opening may be formed that overlaps with the jig holes 37 and 47 of the first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 in the thickness direction Z.

[0095] The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 in the above embodiment are configured such that the axis of the fastening bolt B is aligned with the insertion / removal direction Y, but the configuration is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the axis of the bolt B may be configured to be aligned with the thickness direction Z or the width direction X. Alternatively, the axis of the bolt B may be configured to be aligned with a direction inclined with respect to at least one of the width direction X, the insertion / removal direction Y, and the thickness direction Z.

[0096] Other components besides the actuator 110 may be attached to the upper side of the housing 11 in the thickness direction Z. The first power terminal 12, the second power terminal 13, and the ground terminal 14 in the above embodiment are configured such that the axis of the fastening bolt B is aligned with the insertion / removal direction Y, but the configuration is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the axis of the bolt B may be configured to be aligned with the thickness direction Z or the width direction X. Alternatively, the axis of the bolt B may be configured to be aligned with a direction inclined with respect to at least one of the width direction X, the insertion / removal direction Y, and the thickness direction Z.

[0097] The embodiments and modifications disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects, and the present invention is not limited to these examples. That is, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 10 Charging Connectors 11 Housing 12 1st power terminal (power terminal) 13 2nd power terminal (power terminal) 14 Ground terminal 15 Signal terminals 15a Signal Line 16. First position-holding member (position-holding member) 17. Second position holding member 21. First relay terminal (relay terminal) 22 Second relay terminal (relay terminal) 23 Third relay terminal 24 Electric wire 25 Electric wire 31,41 First connection section 31a Elastic piece 32,42 Second connection section 33,43 Connection part 33a 1st side 33b Second side 34,44 Extended wall section 35, 45 Through holes 36,46 nuts 37,47 Jig holes 38 Temperature Sensor 38a Lead wire 39 Retaining member 51 First end 52 Second end 53a First containment area 53b Second containment area 53c Third containment area 53d Fourth containment section 54 Insulating wall section 55 Through hole 56a,56b,56c 1st opening 57a 2nd opening 57b 3rd opening 58 Second engaging portion 59 Locking projection 61 Covering part 62 Insertion section 63 First engagement portion 64 1st contact part (contact part) 71 Main body 72 Locking piece 73 Opening 74 Second contact part 75 Third contact part 76 Insulating wall 77 Outlet 100 External power supply device 101 External Connector 110 Actuator B bolt BT Battery C1 center line D Insertion direction (fitting direction) P Jig S screw V Vehicle W Wire Harness X width direction (first direction) Y insertion / removal direction Z-axis thickness direction

Claims

1. It is a charging connector for vehicles, Housing and A pair of power terminals housed in the aforementioned housing, Multiple signal terminals housed in the aforementioned housing, A temperature sensor attached to each of the pair of power terminals, Equipped with, The pair of power terminals and the plurality of signal terminals are connected to the mating terminals of the external connector that fits into the housing, along the mating direction of the external connector. The pair of power terminals are arranged side by side along a first direction perpendicular to the mating direction, With the second direction being a direction perpendicular to each of the aforementioned mating direction and the first direction, the plurality of signal terminals are provided on only one side of the pair of power terminals in the second direction. The temperature sensor is attached to the side of each power terminal in the first direction, The pair of power terminals are each provided with a pair of relay terminals that are fixed to them by bolting, Each of the aforementioned power terminals is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing, The housing has a first opening through which a jig can be inserted, Each of the aforementioned power terminals has a jig hole through which the jig inserted into the first opening can be inserted. Charging connector.

2. It is a charging connector for vehicles, Housing and A pair of power terminals housed in the aforementioned housing, Multiple signal terminals housed in the aforementioned housing, A temperature sensor attached to each of the pair of power terminals, Equipped with, The pair of power terminals and the plurality of signal terminals are connected to the mating terminals of the external connector that fits into the housing, along the mating direction of the external connector. The pair of power terminals are arranged side by side along a first direction perpendicular to the mating direction, With the second direction being a direction perpendicular to each of the aforementioned mating direction and the first direction, the plurality of signal terminals are provided on only one side of the pair of power terminals in the second direction. The temperature sensor is attached to the side of each power terminal in the first direction, The system includes a position-holding member that holds the position of the power terminals in the fitting direction, The housing has a second opening that opens in a direction intersecting the fitting direction, The position-holding member has an insertion portion that is inserted into the second opening, The insertion portion has a contact portion that the power terminals contact in the fitting direction, The insertion portion abuts against the edge of the second opening in the fitting direction. Charging connector.

3. The temperature sensor has lead wires, Each of the aforementioned signal terminals is connected to a signal line. At least one of the plurality of signal lines and the lead wire are drawn out to the outside of the housing from the same outlet. The charging connector according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. Each of the aforementioned power terminals is a press terminal formed from a sheet material by press processing. Each of the aforementioned power terminals is, The first connection part to which the mating terminal is connected, A second connection section to which a relay terminal connected to an electric wire is connected, A connecting portion that connects the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, It comprises a pair of extended wall portions formed by bending relative to the connecting portion, Each of the pair of extended wall portions abuts against the contact portion in the fitting direction, The charging connector according to claim 2.

5. The connecting portion has a first side surface which is one of the plate surfaces of the connecting portion, and a second side surface which is the back surface of the first side surface. Each of the aforementioned power terminals is provided such that its first side surface faces the first direction. The temperature sensor is attached to the second side, The charging connector according to claim 4.

6. Each of the pair of extended wall portions extends from the connecting portion toward the first side surface, The insertion portion is located on the first side side relative to the connecting portion. The charging connector according to claim 5.

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