Relay connector

Abstract

To provide a relay connector that can shorten a part to be inserted into a device case.SOLUTION: A housing 20 of a relay connector 10 includes a primary molded portion 21 molded with a terminal 23 as an insert, and a secondary molded portion 22 molded with the primary molded portion 21 including the terminal 23 as an insert. The primary molded portion 21 includes a first body portion 31 for holding the terminal 23, and a tubular first connector fitting portion 50 projecting in a first direction X1 from an end surface in the first direction X1 of the first body portion 31 and provided in an internal space of an inserting portion 40. The secondary molded portion 22 includes a second body portion 32 for holding the terminal 23 and covering the first body portion 31 with the first body portion partially embedded, and the inserting portion 40 projecting in the first direction X1 from an end surface in the first direction X1 of the second body portion 32.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a relay connector. [Background Art]

[0002] Conventionally, as a connector for a vehicle, for example, a relay connector attached to an equipment case that accommodates oil such as a transmission case is known (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). The relay connector is a connector for electrically connecting the inside and the outside of the equipment case. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-157256 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-40551 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Incidentally, when the length of a portion of the relay connector inserted into the equipment case becomes longer, the relay connector is more likely to interfere with other components provided inside the equipment case. Accordingly, there is a demand for shortening the length of the portion of the relay connector inserted into the equipment case.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a relay connector capable of shortening the length of a portion inserted into an equipment case. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0006] The relay connector of this disclosure is a relay connector for which an equipment case is attached and electrically connects the inside and outside of the equipment case, and comprises a housing having a cylindrical insertion portion that is inserted into a mounting hole of the equipment case, a conductive terminal provided in such a manner that a portion of it is embedded in the housing, and a sealing member attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion and sealing the space between the mounting hole and the insertion portion, wherein the housing comprises a primary molded portion in which the terminal is molded as an insert, and a secondary molded portion in which the primary molded portion including the terminal is molded as an insert. The primary molded portion has a first main body portion that holds the terminal and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the first main body portion in the first direction and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion. The secondary molded portion has a second main body portion that holds the terminal and covers a part of the first main body portion while embedding it, an insertion portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first direction and a second connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first opposite direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The relay connector of this disclosure has the effect of shortening the length of the portion that is inserted inside the equipment case. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view along line 1-1 in Figure 4) showing a relay connector of one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view along line 2-2 in Figure 4) showing a relay connector of one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a relay connector of one embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view showing a relay connector according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the primary molding section of one embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view of line 6-6 in Figure 1) showing a relay connector of one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] [Description of Embodiments in this Disclosure] First, embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described. [1] The relay connector of the present disclosure is a relay connector for which an equipment case is attached and electrically connects the inside and outside of the equipment case, comprising: a housing having a cylindrical insertion portion that is inserted into a mounting hole of the equipment case; a conductive terminal provided in such a manner that a portion of it is embedded in the housing; and a sealing member attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion and sealing the space between the mounting hole and the insertion portion, wherein the housing comprises a primary molded portion in which the terminal is molded as an insert, and a secondary molded portion in which the primary molded portion including the terminal is molded as an insert, The primary molded portion has a first main body portion that holds the terminal and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the first main body portion in the first direction and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion, and the secondary molded portion has a second main body portion that holds the terminal and covers a part of the first main body portion while embedding it, an insertion portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first direction and a second connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first opposite direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction which is opposite to the first direction.

[0010] In this configuration, the first connector mating portion protrudes in a first direction, which is the direction in which the insertion portion, inserted into the mounting hole of the equipment case, protrudes. Therefore, the first connector mating portion protrudes toward the interior of the equipment case. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first connector mating portion is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion. That is, at least a portion of the first connector mating portion is provided in a state where it is housed in the internal space of the insertion portion, i.e., embedded inside the insertion portion. Therefore, compared to the case where the base end of the first connector mating portion is connected to the end face of the insertion portion in the first direction, the length of the first connector mating portion that protrudes toward the first direction beyond the end face of the insertion portion in the first direction can be shortened. That is, compared to the case where the end face of the insertion portion in the first direction becomes the bottom wall of the first connector mating portion, the length of the first connector mating portion that protrudes toward the first direction beyond the end face of the insertion portion can be shortened by the amount by which at least a portion of the first connector mating portion is embedded inside the insertion portion. As a result, the length of the portion of the relay connector that is inserted into the interior of the equipment case can be suitably shortened. As a result, interference between the relay connector and other components inside the equipment case can be effectively suppressed.

[0011] Furthermore, the primary molded portion having the first connector mating portion is formed separately from the secondary molded portion having the insertion portion. Therefore, the shape of the primary molded portion, such as the first connector mating portion, is not constrained by the shape of the secondary molded portion, such as the insertion portion. This improves the degree of freedom in the shape of the primary molded portion. It also improves the degree of freedom in the combination of the shapes of the primary molded portion and the secondary molded portion. As a result, the degree of freedom in the overall shape of the intermediate connector can be improved.

[0012] [2] In the above [1], the first main body portion has a bottom wall portion that closes the first opposite opening of the first connector fitting portion and a flange portion that is formed integrally with the bottom wall portion and protrudes radially outward from the first connector fitting portion beyond the outer peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion, and the second main body portion may cover the tip region of the flange portion in an embedded state.

[0013] According to this configuration, the distal end region of the flange portion of the first main body portion is embedded in the second main body portion, whereby the first main body portion and the second main body portion are suitably integrated. Thereby, the primary molded portion and the secondary molded portion can be suitably integrated.

[0014] [3] In the above [2], an end portion of the first connector fitting portion in the first direction protrudes in the first direction beyond an end face of the insertion portion in the first direction, an inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion surrounds an outer circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion in a state where a gap is provided between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion, and a portion of the end face of the flange portion in the first direction that is not covered by the second main body portion may be exposed to the gap.

[0015] According to this configuration, a gap is provided between the inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion and the outer circumferential surface of the first connector fitting portion. Therefore, a mating housing of a mating connector fitted to the first connector fitting portion can be suitably inserted into the gap. Thereby, the mating connector can be accommodated in the internal space of the insertion portion.

[0016] [4] In the above [2] or [3], the second main body portion covers the entire end face of the first main body portion in the first opposite direction in a close contact state, the first connector fitting portion surrounds an outer circumference of the terminal protruding in the first direction from an end face of the first main body portion in the first direction, and the second connector fitting portion may surround an outer circumference of the terminal protruding in the first opposite direction from an end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction.

[0017] According to this configuration, the entire end face of the first main body portion in the first opposite direction is covered by the second main body portion in a close contact state. Thereby, the contact area between the first main body portion and the second main body portion can be increased, and the adhesion between the first main body portion and the second main body portion can be improved.

[0018] [5] In any one of the above [1] to [4], the primary molded portion may protrude radially outward of the first connector fitting portion from an outer peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion, and may have one or more protrusions that engage with a mating housing of a mating connector fitted to the first connector fitting portion in a circumferential direction of the first connector fitting portion.

[0019] According to this configuration, when the mating connector is fitted to the first connector fitting portion, the protrusion of the primary molded portion and the mating housing of the mating connector are engaged with each other in the circumferential direction of the first connector fitting portion. This can suitably suppress relative rotation of the first connector fitting portion about an axis extending in the first direction with respect to the mating housing. As a result, it is possible to suppress relative movement of the terminals of the relay connector with respect to the mating terminals of the mating connector, and suitably suppress wear of the contact points between the terminals and the mating terminals.

[0020] [6] In the above [5], the first connector fitting portion is formed in a square cylindrical shape, and the first connector fitting portion includes a first peripheral wall provided in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, a second peripheral wall provided in a second opposite direction opposite to the second direction, a third peripheral wall provided in a third direction orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction, and a fourth peripheral wall provided in a third opposite direction opposite to the third direction, and the protrusion may include a plurality of first protrusions provided on the third peripheral wall and one second protrusion provided on the fourth peripheral wall.

[0021] In this configuration, a first protrusion and a second protrusion, each with a different configuration, are provided on a third circumferential wall provided in a third direction and a fourth circumferential wall provided in the opposite third direction. This prevents the mating housing of the mating connector from being fitted to the first connector mating portion in an incorrect orientation. For example, if the mating housing has a first groove into which the first protrusion is inserted along the first direction and a second groove into which the second protrusion is inserted along the first direction, it is possible to prevent the mating connector from being fitted to the first connector mating portion in an incorrect orientation. This effectively prevents incorrect assembly when assembling the mating housing to the first connector mating portion.

[0022] [7] In any of the above [1] to [6], the primary molded portion has an engaging projection that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion, the engaging projection extends along the first direction, and the engaging projection may be formed such that the amount of protrusion from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion increases as it moves from the end of the engaging projection in the first direction toward the first opposite direction.

[0023] With this configuration, by providing the mating connector that is mated to the first connector mating portion with an engaging portion that engages with the engaging projection, the mating connector can be easily fixed to the first connector mating portion.

[0024] [8] In any of the above [1] to [7], the first connector mating portion is cylindrical in shape with a circumferential wall continuously formed around the entire circumference of the first connector mating portion, and the first connector mating portion may be formed in a waterproof structure into which a mating connector which is a waterproof connector is mated.

[0025] With this configuration, even if the inside of the equipment case is in an oily environment, it is possible to effectively suppress the intrusion of liquids such as oil into the first connector mating portion when the mating connector is mated. [Details of the embodiments of this disclosure] Specific examples of the relay 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. In this specification, "parallel" and "orthogonal" include not only cases where they are strictly parallel or orthogonal, but also cases where they are roughly parallel or orthogonal within the range that produces the effects of this embodiment. As used in this specification, "cylindrical" includes not only those in which a circumferential wall is formed continuously around the entire circumference, but also those formed by combining multiple parts to form a cylinder, or those having a notch or the like in the circumferential direction, such as a C-shape. The shape of "cylindrical" includes, but is not limited to, circular, elliptical, and polygons with pointed or rounded corners. The present invention is not limited to these examples and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims, as indicated by the claims.

[0026] (Overall structure) As shown in Figure 1, the relay connector 10 is attached to an equipment case 200 mounted on a vehicle. The relay connector 10 is fixed to the equipment case 200, for example, by bolts. The relay connector 10 is a connector for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the equipment case 200. The equipment case 200 is, for example, a transmission case. The equipment case 200 is, for example, made of metal. The inside of the equipment case 200 is an oil-based environment, and the outside of the equipment case 200 is an air-based environment. Electrical components such as motors and sensors are provided inside the equipment case 200. The equipment case 200 has a mounting hole 201 through which the relay connector 10 passes. The mounting hole 201 is formed to communicate the inside and outside of the equipment case 200. The relay connector 10 is fitted into the mounting hole 201 of the equipment case 200. The relay connector 10 is electrically connected to the mating connector 100 inside the equipment case 200. The relay connector 10 is electrically connected to electrical components located inside the equipment case 200 via the mating connector 100. Although not shown in the diagram, the relay connector 10 is electrically connected, for example, to a mating connector located outside the equipment case 200 on a control unit that houses a control circuit, etc. The control circuit located in the control unit is electrically connected to electrical components located inside the equipment case 200 via the relay connector 10 and the mating connector 100.

[0027] (Configuration of relay connector 10) The relay connector 10 can be attached to the equipment case 200 in any orientation depending on the orientation of the equipment case 200. The relay connector 10 is inserted, for example, into the mounting hole 201 of the equipment case 200 along a first direction X1.

[0028] In the following explanation, when describing the positional relationships of each component of the relay connector 10, the direction opposite to the first direction X1 will be referred to as the first opposite direction X2. Also, the direction perpendicular to the first direction X1 that points to the right in Figure 3 will be referred to as the second direction Y1, and the direction opposite to the second direction Y1 will be referred to as the second opposite direction Y2. The direction perpendicular to both the first direction X1 and the second direction Y1 that points upward in Figure 3 will be referred to as the third direction Z1, and the direction opposite to the third direction Z1 will be referred to as the third opposite direction Z2. Note that the description of the direction of the mating connector 100 will be based on the state in which the mating connector 100 is assembled to the relay connector 10.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the relay connector 10 comprises a housing 20, one or more conductive terminals 23 held by the housing 20, and a sealing member 24 attached to the outer circumference of the housing 20. The relay connector 10 in this embodiment has two terminals 23.

[0030] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the housing 20 has, for example, a primary molded section 21 and a secondary molded section 22. The primary molded section 21 is formed, for example, by insert molding with a plurality of terminals 23 as inserts. The primary molded section 21 is formed to cover a portion of each terminal 23. The primary molded section 21 is formed to cover the middle portion of each terminal 23 in the longitudinal direction. The secondary molded section 22 is formed by insert molding with the primary molded section 21, including the terminals 23, as inserts. The secondary molded section 22 is formed to cover a portion of the primary molded section 21. Each of the primary molded section 21 and the secondary molded section 22 is made of, for example, a material such as synthetic resin. As the materials for each of the primary molded section 21 and the secondary molded section 22, for example, polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, or polybutylene terephthalate can be used. The materials for the primary molded section 21 and the secondary molded section 22 may be the same type of material or different materials.

[0031] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the housing 20 has a main body portion 30, a cylindrical insertion portion 40 protruding from the main body portion 30 in a first direction X1, and a cylindrical first connector mating portion 50 provided in the internal space of the insertion portion 40. The housing 20 also has a cylindrical second connector mating portion 60 protruding from the main body portion 30 in a first opposite direction X2.

[0032] (Configuration of the main body 30) As shown in Figure 2, the main body 30 is provided in the external space of the equipment case 200 when the insertion portion 40 is fitted into the mounting hole 201. The main body 30 is formed to, for example, close the opening of the insertion portion 40 in the first opposite direction X2. The main body 30 is formed to, for example, close the opening of the first connector mating portion 50 in the first opposite direction X2. The main body 30 is formed to, for example, close the opening of the second connector mating portion 60 in the first direction X1.

[0033] The main body 30 has a terminal holding portion 33 that holds a plurality of terminals 23. Here, each terminal 23 is formed, for example, in the shape of a rod. Each terminal 23 extends linearly, for example, along a first direction X1. Each terminal 23 is made of, for example, metal. The terminal holding portion 33 covers the outer circumferential surface of each terminal 23 in a tightly fitting manner around its entire circumference. The terminal holding portion 33 holds each terminal 23 in a state where its axial intermediate portion is embedded, for example. In other words, a part of each terminal 23 is embedded inside the housing 20. Each terminal 23 protrudes, for example, from the end face of the terminal holding portion 33 in the first direction X1 toward the first direction X1, and also protrudes from the end face of the terminal holding portion 33 in the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2.

[0034] The main body 30 has, for example, a fixing portion 35 that protrudes radially outward from the insertion portion 40 beyond the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40. The fixing portion 35 protrudes, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction of the insertion portion 40 into the mounting hole 201 (here, a first direction X1) (here, a second direction Y1). The fixing portion 35 is formed in a plate shape. The fixing portion 35 is provided so as to be in contact with the outer surface of the equipment case 200. The fixing portion 35 is formed so as to be engageable with the outer surface of the equipment case 200 in the first direction X1. The fixing portion 35 has, for example, a through hole 36 that penetrates the fixing portion 35 in the plate thickness direction (here, a first direction X1). A metal collar 37 is inserted into the through hole 36. The collar 37 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. Fixing bolts (not shown) are inserted into the holes in the collar 37. The main body 30 is fixed to the equipment case 200 by fastening bolts inserted into holes in the collar 37.

[0035] (Configuration of the insertion section 40) The insertion portion 40 protrudes, for example, from the end face of the main body portion 30 in the first direction X1 toward the first direction X1. The insertion portion 40 opens, for example, toward the first direction X1. The insertion portion 40 is inserted into the mounting hole 201 of the equipment case 200. The insertion portion 40 is inserted into the mounting hole 201 along the first direction X1. The outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40 is formed, for example, in a shape corresponding to the inner circumferential surface that defines the mounting hole 201. As shown in Figure 3, the insertion portion 40 of this embodiment is formed in a cylindrical shape in which its inner and outer circumferential shapes are circular. The insertion portion 40 is formed in a cylindrical shape in which the circumferential wall is formed continuously around the entire circumference in the circumferential direction, that is, in an endless structure in which the start end and end end coincide. In other words, the insertion portion 40 does not have holes such as slits that connect the inside and outside of the insertion portion 40 in a part of the circumferential direction.

[0036] The insertion portion 40 surrounds, for example, the outer circumference of a part of the first connector mating portion 50 in the axial direction (here, the first direction X1). The insertion portion 40 also surrounds, for example, the outer circumference of the end of the first connector mating portion 50 in the first opposite direction X2. The inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40 is provided at a distance from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. That is, the inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40 surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 with a gap 41 between it and the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. The gap 41 is formed continuously, for example, over the entire circumference of the insertion portion 40.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40 is provided with a accommodating groove 42, for example, in which a sealing member 24 is housed. The accommodating groove 42 is formed to be recessed radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40. The accommodating groove 42 is formed, for example, around the entire circumference of the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40. A cylindrical sealing member 24 is fitted into the accommodating groove 42. When the insertion portion 40 is fitted into the mounting hole 201, the sealing member 24 adheres tightly to the inner circumferential surface defining the mounting hole 201 around its entire circumference, sealing the space between the outer circumferential surface of the housing 20 and the inner circumferential surface of the equipment case 200.

[0038] (Configuration of sealing member 24) The sealing member 24 is configured to be elastically deformable. The sealing member 24 is formed, for example, as a continuous cylindrical structure extending around the entire circumference of the insertion portion 40, that is, an endless structure where the start and end points coincide. The sealing member 24 is, for example, an O-ring. The inner circumferential shape of the sealing member 24 is formed, for example, along the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40. The outer circumferential shape of the sealing member 24 is formed, for example, along the inner circumferential surface defining the mounting hole 201. In this embodiment, the sealing member 24 is formed as a cylindrical shape with circular inner and outer circumferential shapes. The sealing member 24 is, for example, made of rubber.

[0039] (Configuration of the first connector mating portion 50) As shown in Figure 1, the mating connector 100 is mated into the first connector mating portion 50. The mating connector 100 in this embodiment is a waterproof connector. The first connector mating portion 50 in this embodiment is formed with a waterproof structure. That is, the first connector mating portion 50 is formed with a structure that prevents liquids such as oil from entering the inside of the first connector mating portion 50 from the outside when the mating connector 100 is mated into it.

[0040] The first connector mating portion 50 protrudes, for example, from the end face of the main body portion 30 in the direction X1 toward the first direction X1. The first connector mating portion 50 opens, for example, in the direction X1. The end of the first connector mating portion 50 in the direction X1 protrudes, for example, further in the direction X1 than the end face of the insertion portion 40 in the direction X1. The first connector mating portion 50 surrounds the outer circumference of the terminal 23 that protrudes from the end face of the terminal holding portion 33 in the direction X1. The inner circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 is provided at a distance from the terminal 23. The inner circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 surrounds the outer circumference of the terminal 23 over its entire circumference while remaining at a distance from the terminal 23.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the first connector mating portion 50 is formed in a continuous cylindrical shape over the entire circumference of the first connector mating portion 50, that is, an endless structure where the start end and end end coincide. In other words, the first connector mating portion 50 does not have holes such as slits that connect the inside and outside of the first connector mating portion 50 in a part of the circumference. The first connector mating portion 50 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape, for example. In this embodiment, the inner and outer shapes of the first connector mating portion 50 are formed in a rounded rectangular shape.

[0042] The first connector mating portion 50 includes, for example, a first circumferential wall 51 provided in the second direction Y1, a second circumferential wall 52 provided in the second opposite direction Y2, a third circumferential wall 53 provided in the third direction Z1, and a fourth circumferential wall 54 provided in the third opposite direction Z2.

[0043] The outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 is provided with an engaging projection 55 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. The engaging projection 55 is provided, for example, on the outer circumferential surface of the third circumferential wall 53. The engaging projection 55 is provided, for example, on the outer circumferential surface of the intermediate portion of the first connector mating portion 50 in the axial direction. The engaging projection 55 extends, for example, along a first direction X1. The engaging projection 55 is formed such that, for example, the amount of protrusion from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 increases as it moves from the end of the engaging projection 55 in the first direction X1 toward the first opposite direction X2. The engaging projection 55 is formed to be able to engage with an engaging portion 140 provided on the mating connector 100, for example.

[0044] The outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 is provided with protrusions 56, 57, and 58 that project radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. The first connector mating portion 50 in this embodiment has two protrusions 56, one protrusion 57, and two protrusions 58.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the two protrusions 56 are provided, for example, on the outer circumferential surface of the third circumferential wall 53. The two protrusions 56 are provided, for example, so as to sandwich the engaging projection 55 from both sides in the second direction Y1. Each protrusion 56 extends, for example, from the axial end of the first connector mating portion 50, in this case the end in the first opposite direction X2, along the first direction X1. Each protrusion 56 extends, for example, from the end of the first connector mating portion 50 in the first opposite direction X2 to the axial middle portion of the first connector mating portion 50.

[0046] One projection 57 is provided, for example, on the outer circumferential surface of the fourth circumferential wall 54. The projection 57 is provided, for example, in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50 at a position offset by 180° from the engaging projection 55. As shown in Figure 4, two projections 58 are provided, for example, one on the outer circumferential surface of the first circumferential wall 51 and one on the outer circumferential surface of the second circumferential wall 52. As shown in Figure 5, each projection 57, 58 extends, for example, from the axial end of the first connector mating portion 50, in this case the end in the first opposite direction X2, along the first direction X1. The length dimension of each projection 57, 58 along the first direction X1 is greater, for example, than the length dimension of each projection 56 along the first direction X1.

[0047] (Configuration of the second connector mating portion 60) As shown in Figure 1, the second connector mating portion 60 protrudes, for example, from the end face of the main body portion 30 in the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2. The second connector mating portion 60 is provided in the external space of the equipment case 200. A connector (not shown) that is electrically connected to a control unit provided outside the equipment case 200 is mated to the second connector mating portion 60.

[0048] The second connector mating portion 60 opens, for example, in a first opposite direction X2. The second connector mating portion 60 surrounds, for example, the outer circumference of the terminal 23 that protrudes from the end face of the terminal holding portion 33 in the first opposite direction X2. The inner circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60 is provided at a distance from the terminal 23. The inner circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60 surrounds the outer circumference of the terminal 23 over its entire circumference at a distance from the terminal 23.

[0049] The second connector mating portion 60 is formed, for example, as a continuous cylindrical structure extending over the entire circumference of the second connector mating portion 60, that is, an endless structure where the start end and end end coincide. In this embodiment, the inner and outer circumferential shapes of the second connector mating portion 60 are formed as a rounded rectangle.

[0050] A recess 61 is provided on the bottom surface of the second connector mating portion 60 in the first direction X1. The recess 61 is filled with potting material 62. The potting material 62 provides a liquid-tight seal between the housing 20 and the terminal 23. The potting material 62 prevents, for example, oil inside the equipment case 200 from leaking out to the outside of the equipment case 200.

[0051] The outer circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60 is provided with an engaging projection 65 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60. The engaging projection 65 is provided, for example, on the outer circumferential surface of the axial intermediate portion of the second connector mating portion 60. The engaging projection 65 protrudes toward the third direction Z1 from the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential wall of the second connector mating portion 60 toward the third direction Z1. The engaging projection 65 is formed such that, for example, the amount of protrusion from the outer circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60 increases as you move toward the first direction X1 from the end of the engaging projection 65 toward the first direction X1. The engaging projection 65 is formed to be able to engage with an engaging portion provided on a mating connector (not shown), for example.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3, the outer circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60 is provided with, for example, one or more protrusions 66 that project radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the second connector mating portion 60. Each protrusion 66 extends, for example, along a first direction X1.

[0053] As shown in Figure 5, the primary molded portion 21 constituting the housing 20 includes, for example, a first main body portion 31, a first connector fitting portion 50, an engaging projection 55, and protruding portions 56, 57, and 58. The primary molded portion 21 is formed by the first main body portion 31, the first connector fitting portion 50, the engaging projection 55, and the protruding portions 56, 57, and 58 being formed in a continuous and integral manner. The primary molded portion 21 is a core component when forming the secondary molded portion 22.

[0054] As shown in Figure 2, the first main body portion 31 forms a part of the main body portion 30. The first main body portion 31 has, for example, a bottom wall portion 31A that closes the opening of the first connector mating portion 50 in the first opposite direction X2, and a flange portion 31B that is formed integrally with the bottom wall portion 31A. The bottom wall portion 31A forms a part of the terminal holding portion 33. The flange portion 31B is formed to protrude radially outward from the first connector mating portion 50 beyond the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. The flange portion 31B is formed, for example, continuously around the entire circumference of the first connector mating portion 50. The first main body portion 31 is formed, for example, in a disc shape as a whole. The first connector mating portion 50 protrudes toward the first direction X1 from the end face of the first main body portion 31 in the first direction X1. The first connector mating portion 50 protrudes toward the first direction X1 from the end face of the bottom wall portion 31A in the first direction X1.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the secondary molded portion 22 constituting the housing 20 includes, for example, a second main body portion 32, an insertion portion 40, a second connector fitting portion 60, an engaging projection 65, and a protruding portion 66. The secondary molded portion 22 is formed by continuously and integrally comprising, for example, the second main body portion 32, the insertion portion 40, the second connector fitting portion 60, the engaging projection 65, and the protruding portion 66.

[0056] The second main body portion 32 forms a part of the main body portion 30. In other words, the main body portion 30 is composed of the first main body portion 31 and the second main body portion 32. The second main body portion 32 covers the first main body portion 31 in a state where a part of it is embedded. That is, the second main body portion 32 covers the first main body portion 31 in a state where a part of the first main body portion 31 is embedded inside the second main body portion 32. For example, the second main body portion 32 covers the tip region (i.e., the outer edge region) of the flange portion 31B in a state where it is embedded. For example, the second main body portion 32 covers the entire end face of the first opposite direction X2 of the first main body portion 31 in a state of close contact. That is, the second main body portion 32 covers the entire end face of the bottom wall portion 31A in a state of close contact, and also covers the entire end face of the flange portion 31B in a state of close contact. The portion of the second main body 32 that covers the end face of the bottom wall portion 31A in the first opposite direction X2 forms part of the terminal holding portion 33. Here, the portion of the end face of the flange portion 31B in the first direction X1 that is not covered by the second main body 32 is exposed in the gap 41 between the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40.

[0057] As shown in Figure 2, the second main body portion 32 has a fixing portion 35. The insertion portion 40 protrudes from the end face of the second main body portion 32 in the direction of the first direction X1 toward the first direction X1. The insertion portion 40 protrudes from the end face of the second main body portion 32 in the direction of the first direction X1 toward the first direction X1 toward the portion that covers the tip region of the flange portion 31B. The second connector mating portion 60 protrudes from the end face of the second main body portion 32 in the direction of the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2 toward the portion that covers the end face of the bottom wall portion 31A in the direction of the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2 toward the first opposite direction X2 toward the second connector mating portion 60.

[0058] (Configuration of the other connector 100) As shown in Figure 1, the mating connector 100 comprises a mating housing 101, a mating terminal 103 held in the mating housing 101, a sealing member 104, and a sealing member 105. Although not shown in the figure, the mating terminal 103 has, for example, a female terminal electrically connected to a male terminal 23, and a wire connected to that female terminal. The mating connector 100 is a female connector.

[0059] The mating housing 101 has an insertion cylinder portion 110 that is inserted into the first connector mating portion 50 of the relay connector 10, a protruding cylinder portion 120 that protrudes from the insertion cylinder portion 110 in a first direction X1, and a cylindrical hood portion 130 that surrounds the outer circumference of the insertion cylinder portion 110.

[0060] The insertion cylinder portion 110 is inserted into the first connector mating portion 50 with the mating terminal 103 housed inside. An annular sealing member 104 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the insertion cylinder portion 110. The sealing member 104 is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the insertion cylinder portion 110 over its entire circumference. Furthermore, when the insertion cylinder portion 110 is fitted into the first connector mating portion 50, the sealing member 104 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 over its entire circumference. The sealing member 104 seals the space between the outer circumferential surface of the insertion cylinder portion 110 and the inner circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. This prevents liquids such as oil from entering the first connector mating portion 50 from the space between the insertion cylinder portion 110 and the first connector mating portion 50. The sealing member 104 is made of rubber, for example.

[0061] The protruding cylindrical portion 120 is provided, for example, on the outside of the first connector mating portion 50. A sealing member 105 is provided inside the protruding cylindrical portion 120. The sealing member 105 is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the mating terminal 103 over its entire circumference, and is also in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the protruding cylindrical portion 120 over its entire circumference. The sealing member 105 seals the space between the outer circumferential surface of the mating terminal 103 and the inner circumferential surface of the protruding cylindrical portion 120. This prevents liquids such as oil from entering the interior of the insertion cylindrical portion 110 and the interior of the first connector mating portion 50 from between the mating terminal 103 and the protruding cylindrical portion 120. The sealing member 105 is made of rubber, for example.

[0062] The hood portion 130 is fitted, for example, to the outside of the first connector mating portion 50. The hood portion 130 is inserted into the gap 41 between the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40.

[0063] As shown in Figure 3, the hood portion 130 has an engaging portion 140 formed to engage with, for example, the engaging projection 55 of the relay connector 10. The engaging portion 140 is formed in a frame having, for example, an engaging hole 141 that can engage with the engaging projection 55. The engaging portion 140 is configured to be elastically deformable. The engaging portion 140 is configured to be able to bend in a third direction Z1 by elastic deformation. The engaging portion 140 and the engaging projection 55 are engaged with each other, for example, by a snap-fit ​​method that utilizes the elastic deformation of the engaging portion 140.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical hood portion 130 is provided with a first groove 131 into which two protrusions 56 are inserted, a second groove 132 into which one protrusion 57 is inserted, and two third grooves 133 into which two protrusions 58 are inserted, respectively.

[0065] The first groove 131 extends, for example, along a first direction X1. Two projections 56 are inserted into the first groove 131, for example, along the first direction X1. An engaging portion 140 is provided inside the first groove 131. If a projection 57 is inserted into the first groove 131, the projection 57 will come into contact with the engaging portion 140. For this reason, the first groove 131 is formed in such a way that the projection 57 cannot be inserted.

[0066] The second groove 132 extends, for example, along a first direction X1. A projection 57 is inserted into the second groove 132, for example, along the first direction X1. The second groove 132 is formed in such a way that a projection 56 cannot be inserted into it.

[0067] Each third groove 133 extends, for example, along a first direction X1. Each projection 58 is inserted, for example, along the first direction X1, into each third groove 133. The first groove 131, the second groove 132, and the third groove 133 function as guide members when fitting the mating connector 100 into the first connector mating portion 50. Similarly, the protrusions 56, 57, and 58 function as guide members when fitting the mating connector 100 into the first connector mating portion 50.

[0068] When the mating connector 100 is mated to the first connector mating portion 50 in the correct orientation, the protrusions 56, 57, and 58 of the intermediate connector 10 engage with the inner circumferential surface of the hood portion 130 of the mating housing 101 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50. Specifically, each protrusion 56 engages with the inner surface defining the first groove 131 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50. Each protrusion 57 engages with the inner surface defining the second groove 132 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50. Each protrusion 58 engages with the inner surface defining each third groove 133 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50.

[0069] Next, the effects and advantages of this embodiment will be explained. (1) The relay connector 10 comprises a housing 20 having a cylindrical insertion portion 40 that is inserted into a mounting hole 201 of the equipment case 200, and a conductive terminal 23 provided in such a manner that a portion of it is embedded in the housing 20. The relay connector 10 comprises a sealing member 24 that is attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion 40 and seals the space between the mounting hole 201 and the insertion portion 40. The housing 20 has a primary molded portion 21 in which the terminal 23 is molded as an insert, and a secondary molded portion 22 in which the primary molded portion 21 including the terminal 23 is molded as an insert. The primary molded portion 21 has a first main body portion 31 that holds the terminal 23, and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion 50 that protrudes toward the first direction X1 from the end face of the first main body portion 31 toward the first direction X1 and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion 40. The secondary molded portion 22 has a second main body portion 32 that holds the terminal 23 and covers a part of the first main body portion 31 while embedding it, and an insertion portion 40 that protrudes toward the first direction X1 from the end face of the second main body portion 32 toward the first direction X1. The secondary molded portion 22 has a second connector fitting portion 60 that protrudes toward the first opposite direction X2 from the end face of the second main body portion 32 toward the first opposite direction X2, which is the opposite direction to the first direction X1.

[0070] In this configuration, the first connector mating portion 50 protrudes in the first direction X1, which is the direction in which the insertion portion 40, which is inserted into the mounting hole 201 of the equipment case 200, protrudes. Therefore, the first connector mating portion 50 protrudes toward the interior of the equipment case 200. In addition, at least a part of the first connector mating portion 50 is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion 40. That is, at least a part of the first connector mating portion 50 is provided in a state where it is housed in the internal space of the insertion portion 40, i.e., embedded inside the insertion portion 40. Therefore, compared to the case where the base end of the first connector mating portion 50 is connected to the end face of the insertion portion 40 in the first direction X1, the length of the first connector mating portion 50 that protrudes toward the first direction X1 from the end face of the insertion portion 40 in the first direction X1 can be shortened. In other words, compared to the case where the end face of the insertion portion 40 in the first direction X1 becomes the bottom wall of the first connector mating portion 50, the length of the first connector mating portion 50 protruding into the equipment case 200 can be shortened by the amount that the first connector mating portion 50 is embedded inside the insertion portion 40. As a result, interference between the relay connector 10 and other components inside the equipment case 200 can be effectively suppressed.

[0071] (2) Furthermore, the primary molded portion 21 having the first connector mating portion 50 is formed separately from the secondary molded portion 22 having the insertion portion 40. Therefore, the shape of the primary molded portion 21, such as the first connector mating portion 50, is not constrained by the shape of the secondary molded portion 22, such as the insertion portion 40. This improves the degree of freedom of the shape of the primary molded portion 21. It also improves the degree of freedom of the combination of the shape of the primary molded portion 21 and the shape of the secondary molded portion 22. As a result, the degree of freedom of the overall shape of the relay connector 10 can be improved.

[0072] (3) The tip region of the flange portion 31B of the first main body portion 31 is embedded in the second main body portion 32. This allows the first main body portion 31 and the second main body portion 32 to be suitably integrated. Therefore, the primary molded portion 21 and the secondary molded portion 22 can be suitably integrated.

[0073] (4) A gap 41 is provided between the inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion 40 and the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. This allows the mating housing 101 of the mating connector 100 to be fitted into the first connector mating portion 50 to be suitably inserted into the gap 41. This allows the mating connector 100 to be housed in the internal space of the insertion portion 40.

[0074] (5) The entire end face of the first main body 31 in the first opposite direction X2 is covered by the second main body 32 in a tightly adhering state. This increases the contact area between the first main body 31 and the second main body 32, and improves the adhesion between the first main body 31 and the second main body 32.

[0075] (6) The primary molded portion 21 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 and has protrusions 56, 57, and 58 that engage with the mating housing 101 that is fitted into the first connector mating portion 50 in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50. With this configuration, when the mating connector 100 is fitted into the first connector mating portion 50, the protrusions 56, 57, and 58 of the primary molded portion 21 and the mating housing 101 engage with each other in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion 50. This effectively suppresses the relative rotation of the first connector mating portion 50 with respect to the mating housing 101 around an axis extending in the first direction X1. As a result, it is possible to suppress the relative movement of the terminal 23 of the intermediate connector 10 with respect to the mating terminal 103 of the mating connector 100, and effectively suppress wear of the contact between the terminal 23 and the mating terminal 103.

[0076] (7) In the first connector mating portion 50, a third circumferential wall 53 is provided in the third direction Z1 and a fourth circumferential wall 54 is provided in the third opposite direction Z2, and protrusions 56 and 57, respectively, are provided, each having a different configuration. This prevents the mating housing 101 of the mating connector 100 from being mated to the first connector mating portion 50 in an incorrect orientation. For example, the mating housing 101 has a first groove 131 into which the protrusion 56 is inserted along the first direction X1 and a second groove 132 into which the protrusion 57 is inserted along the first direction X1. When the mating housing 101 has the first groove 131 and the second groove 132 in this way, it is possible to effectively prevent the mating housing 101 from being mated to the first connector mating portion 50 in an incorrect orientation. For example, it is possible to prevent the mating connector 100 from being fitted into the first connector mating portion 50 in a state where it is misaligned from the correct orientation relative to the first connector mating portion 50, around an axis that passes through the center of the first connector mating portion 50 and extends along the first direction X1. This effectively prevents incorrect assembly when assembling the mating housing 101 to the first connector mating portion 50.

[0077] (8) The primary molded portion 21 has an engaging projection 55 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50. The engaging projection 55 extends along a first direction X1. The engaging projection 55 is formed such that the amount of protrusion from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion 50 increases as it moves from the end of the engaging projection 55 in the first direction X1 toward the first opposite direction X2. With this configuration, by providing the mating connector 100 that is mated to the first connector mating portion 50 with an engaging portion 140 that engages with the engaging projection 55, the mating connector 100 can be easily fixed to the first connector mating portion 50.

[0078] (9) The first connector mating portion 50 is formed in a waterproof structure into which the mating connector 100, which is a waterproof connector, is mated. With this configuration, even if the inside of the equipment case 200 is in an oily environment, it is possible to effectively suppress the intrusion of liquids such as oil into the first connector mating portion 50 when the mating connector 100 is mated.

[0079] (Other embodiments) The above embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0080] The structure of the first connector mating portion 50 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. In the above embodiment, the first connector mating portion 50 is formed as a waterproof structure, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the first connector mating portion 50 may be formed as a non-waterproof structure into which a mating connector, which is a non-waterproof connector, is mated.

[0081] In the above embodiment, the end of the first connector mating portion 50 in the first direction X1 is made to protrude in the first direction X1 beyond the end face of the insertion portion 40 in the first direction X1, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the entire axial length of the first connector mating portion 50 may be housed in the internal space of the insertion portion 40.

[0082] The structure of the primary molding section 21 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. The structure of the engaging projection 55 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. The number of protrusions 56, 57, and 58 in the above embodiment can be changed as appropriate.

[0083] The protruding portion 56 in the above embodiment may be omitted. The protruding portion 57 in the above embodiment may be omitted. The protruding portion 58 in the above embodiment may be omitted.

[0084] The structure of the secondary molding section 22 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. The second main body portion 32 in the above embodiment may be formed to cover the entire end face of the flange portion 31B in the first direction X1.

[0085] The structure of the second connector mating portion 60 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. The structure of the engaging projection 65 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. The protruding portion 66 in the above embodiment may be omitted.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the sealing member 24 is embodied as a rubber ring made of rubber, but it is not limited to this. For example, a ring member made of an elastic material other than rubber may be used as the sealing member 24.

[0087] • In the above embodiment, the relay connector 10 is embodied in an equipment case 200 which is a transmission case, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be applied to a relay connector used in equipment cases other than transmission cases. Furthermore, the internal environment of the equipment case 200 to which the relay connector 10 is attached is not limited to an oil-filled environment, and it can also be applied to relay connectors of equipment in which oil is not used inside the equipment case 200.

[0088] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not in the sense described above, and all modifications within the sense and scope equivalent to the claims are intended. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 10 relay connectors 20 Housing 21 Primary forming part 22 Secondary molding section 23 terminals 24 sealing member 30 Main body 31. First main body 31A Bottom wall part 31B Flange section 32 Second Main Body 33 Terminal holding part 35 Fixed part 36 Through holes 37 Colors 40 Insertion part 41 gap 42 Storage grooves 50 First connector mating section 51 1st peripheral wall 52 Second peripheral wall 53 Third peripheral wall 54 4th peripheral wall 55 Engagement protrusion 56 Projection (first projection) 57 Projection (second projection) 58 Protrusion 60 Second connector mating section 61 recess 62 potting material 65 Engagement protrusion 66 Protrusion 100 mating connector 101 Opponent Housing 103 Mating terminal 104 Sealing member 105 Sealing member 110 Insertion tube section 120 Projecting cylinder part 130 Hood section 131 First groove 132 2nd groove 133 Third groove 140 Engagement part 141 Engagement holes 200 Equipment Cases 201 Mounting holes

Claims

1. A relay connector that is attached to an equipment case and electrically connects the inside and outside of the equipment case, A housing having a cylindrical insertion portion that is inserted into a mounting hole in the aforementioned equipment case, A conductive terminal is provided in such a manner that it is partially embedded in the housing, The device includes a sealing member that is attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion and seals the space between the mounting hole and the insertion portion, The housing has a primary molded portion in which the terminals are molded as insert parts, and a secondary molded portion in which the primary molded portion including the terminals is molded as insert parts. The primary molding portion includes a first main body portion that holds the terminal and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion that protrudes from the first end face of the first main body portion toward the first direction and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion. The secondary molding portion includes a second main body portion that holds the terminal and covers a part of the first main body portion while embedding it, an insertion portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first direction, and a second connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first opposite direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction, which is the opposite direction to the first direction. The first main body portion has a bottom wall portion that closes the first opposite opening of the first connector fitting portion, and a flange portion that is formed integrally with the bottom wall portion and protrudes radially outward from the first connector fitting portion beyond the outer peripheral surface of the first connector fitting portion. The second main body is a relay connector in which the tip region of the flange portion is covered while embedded.

2. The end of the first connector mating portion in the first direction protrudes in the first direction more than the end face of the insertion portion in the first direction. The inner circumferential surface of the insertion portion surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion, with a gap between it and the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion. The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein the portion of the end face of the flange in the first direction that is not covered by the second main body is exposed to the gap.

3. The second main body portion covers the entire end face of the first main body portion in the first opposite direction in a tightly adhering state. The first connector mating portion surrounds the outer circumference of the terminal that protrudes in the first direction from the end face of the first main body portion in the first direction, The relay connector according to claim 1, wherein the second connector mating portion surrounds the outer circumference of the terminal protruding in the first opposite direction from the first opposite end face of the second main body.

4. A relay connector that is attached to an equipment case and electrically connects the inside and outside of the equipment case, A housing having a cylindrical insertion portion that is inserted into a mounting hole in the aforementioned equipment case, A conductive terminal is provided in such a manner that it is partially embedded in the housing, The device includes a sealing member that is attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion and seals the space between the mounting hole and the insertion portion, The housing has a primary molded portion in which the terminals are molded as insert parts, and a secondary molded portion in which the primary molded portion including the terminals is molded as insert parts. The primary molding portion includes a first main body portion that holds the terminal and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion that protrudes from the first end face of the first main body portion toward the first direction and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion. The secondary molding portion includes a second main body portion that holds the terminal and covers a part of the first main body portion while embedding it, an insertion portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first direction, and a second connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first opposite direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction, which is the opposite direction to the first direction. The primary molded portion has one or more protrusions that project radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion and engage with the mating housing of the mating connector that is mated to the first connector mating portion in the circumferential direction of the first connector mating portion.

5. The first connector mating portion is formed in a rectangular tubular shape, The first connector mating portion has a first circumferential wall provided in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, a second circumferential wall provided in a second opposite direction opposite to the second direction, a third circumferential wall provided in a third direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions, and a fourth circumferential wall provided in a third opposite direction opposite to the third direction. The relay connector according to claim 4, wherein the protrusion has a plurality of first protrusions provided on the third peripheral wall and a single second protrusion provided on the fourth peripheral wall.

6. A relay connector that is attached to an equipment case and electrically connects the inside and outside of the equipment case, A housing having a cylindrical insertion portion that is inserted into a mounting hole in the aforementioned equipment case, A conductive terminal is provided in such a manner that it is partially embedded in the housing, The device includes a sealing member that is attached to the outer circumference of the insertion portion and seals the space between the mounting hole and the insertion portion, The housing has a primary molded portion in which the terminals are molded as insert parts, and a secondary molded portion in which the primary molded portion including the terminals is molded as insert parts. The primary molding portion includes a first main body portion that holds the terminal and a cylindrical first connector fitting portion that protrudes from the first end face of the first main body portion toward the first direction and is provided in the internal space of the insertion portion. The secondary molding portion includes a second main body portion that holds the terminal and covers a part of the first main body portion while embedding it, an insertion portion that protrudes toward the first direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first direction, and a second connector fitting portion that protrudes toward the first opposite direction from the end face of the second main body portion in the first opposite direction, which is the opposite direction to the first direction. The primary molding portion has an engaging projection that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion, The engaging projection extends along the first direction, The engagement projection is formed such that the amount of protrusion from the outer circumferential surface of the first connector mating portion increases as it moves from the end of the engagement projection in the first direction toward the first opposite direction.

7. The first connector mating portion is cylindrical in shape, with a circumferential wall formed continuously around the entire circumference of the first connector mating portion. The relay connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first connector mating portion is formed in a waterproof structure into which a mating connector, which is a waterproof connector, is mated.

Images