Circuit unit, circuit unit production method, circuit unit accommodating structure, and device comprising circuit unit

Abstract

A connector (152) is mounted on a substrate (151) on which a circuit has been mounted. The connector (152) includes a terminal (152a) and a connector housing (152b). The terminal (152a) is electrically connected to the circuit. The connector housing (152b) supports the terminal (152a). The terminal (152a) includes a first portion (152a1) which extends in a direction intersecting the substrate (151) and is in elastic contact with an inner wall of a bore hole (151a) formed in the substrate (151). The connector housing (152b) includes a protrusion (152b1) which extends in the direction intersecting the substrate (151) and which is fitted into a fitting hole (151b) formed in the substrate (151).

Description

Circuit unit, method of manufacturing circuit unit, structure for housing circuit unit, and device equipped with circuit unit

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a circuit unit and a manufacturing method thereof. The present disclosure also relates to a structure for accommodating the circuit unit. The present disclosure also relates to a device including the circuit unit.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a headlamp as an example of an apparatus mounted on a vehicle, which is an example of a moving body. The headlamp includes a circuit unit including a control circuit that controls the operation of a light source housed in a housing. A board on which the control circuit and an inner connector are mounted is housed in a case having an outer connector. Electrical connections between the control circuit and the inner and outer connectors are made by soldering. The case is disposed on the outer surface of the housing. Electrical connections between the control circuit and the light source are made through the inner connector. Electrical connections between the control circuit and an external device are made through the outer connector.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-082147

[0004] There is a need to reduce the manufacturing costs of circuit units, structures that house such circuit units, and devices that include such circuit units.

[0005] A first example embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a circuit unit comprising: a substrate on which a circuit is mounted; and a connector mounted on the substrate, wherein the connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; and a connector housing supporting the conductive terminal, wherein the conductive terminal extends in a direction intersecting the substrate and has a portion that is in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate, and the connector housing extends in a direction intersecting the substrate and has a protrusion that is fitted into a hole formed in the substrate.

[0006] According to the configuration of the first embodiment, electrical connection with the circuit is ensured by press-fitting the conductive terminals of the connector into the via holes. Since there is no need to use additional solder, conductive adhesive, screws, etc., it is possible to simplify manufacturing equipment and process management, reduce environmental impact, and reduce materials.

[0007] On the other hand, since solder, conductive adhesive, screws, etc. are not used, a decrease in the support strength of the conductive terminals by the board is unavoidable. However, because the protrusions on the connector housing that support the conductive terminals are press-fit into holes formed in the board, this decrease in support strength can be compensated for. In addition, because the conductive terminals and the protrusions are press-fit into the board in the same direction and simultaneously, it is possible to eliminate the need to add at least one of a separate part, separate equipment, and separate process to compensate for the decrease in support strength.

[0008] As a result, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing costs of the circuit unit, and in turn the manufacturing costs of the structure that houses the circuit unit and the device that uses the circuit unit.

[0009] Therefore, a second example embodiment provided by the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a circuit unit, comprising the steps of: preparing a substrate on which a circuit is to be mounted; preparing a connector having conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit, a connector housing supporting the conductive terminals, and a convex portion formed on the connector housing; and mounting the connector on the substrate so that the conductive terminals and the convex portion extend in a direction intersecting the substrate, thereby bringing the conductive terminals into elastic contact with inner walls of via holes formed in the substrate and fitting the convex portion into holes formed in the substrate.

[0010] Therefore, a third example embodiment provided by the present disclosure is an accommodation structure for a circuit unit, comprising: a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit; wherein the circuit unit is accommodated in the space and comprises: a substrate on which a circuit is mounted; and a connector mounted on the substrate; wherein the connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; and a connector housing supporting the conductive terminal; wherein the conductive terminal has: a first portion extending in a first direction intersecting the substrate and in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate; and a second portion extending in a second direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; and wherein the connector housing extends in the first direction and has a protrusion fitted into a hole formed in the substrate.

[0011] Therefore, a fourth example aspect provided by the present disclosure is an apparatus comprising: a driven element; a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit having a circuit electrically connected to the driven element; wherein the circuit unit comprises: a substrate accommodated in the space and on which the circuit is mounted; and a connector mounted on the substrate; wherein the connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; and a connector housing supporting the conductive terminal; wherein the conductive terminal has: a first portion extending in a first direction intersecting the substrate and in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate; and a second portion extending in a second direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; and wherein the connector housing extends in the first direction and has a protrusion fitted into a hole formed in the substrate.

[0012] A fifth example aspect provided by the present disclosure is an accommodation structure for a circuit unit, comprising: a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit, wherein the circuit unit comprises: a board accommodated in the space and on which a circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the board; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit and engaging with the connector; and a fastening member fastening the cover to the housing, wherein the connector has a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit, the conductive terminal extending in a first direction along the board and having a portion accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing, and the fastening member fastens the cover to the housing at a position closer to an edge farther from the connector than an edge closer to the connector, of both end edges of the board in the first direction.

[0013] A sixth example aspect provided by the present disclosure is an apparatus comprising: a driven element; a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit having a circuit electrically connected to the driven element; the circuit unit comprising: a board accommodated in the space and carrying the circuit; a connector mounted on the board; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit and engaging with the connector; and a fastening member fastening the cover to the housing; the connector having a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit, the conductive terminal extending in a first direction along the board and having a portion accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; and the fastening member fastens the cover to the housing at a position closer to an edge farther from the connector than an edge closer to the connector, of both end edges of the board in the first direction.

[0014] For example, when mating with a mating connector, external stress is applied to the connector. According to the configurations of the fifth and sixth aspects, the stress is transmitted to the cover engaged with the connector and is then released to the housing at a fastening position relatively distant from the connector. This makes it possible to prevent the stress applied to the connector from concentrating locally on the board.

[0015] Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the need for at least one of a separate component, separate equipment, and separate process for protecting the circuit mounted on the board from external stress applied to the connector, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the structure that houses the circuit unit and the device that includes the circuit unit.

[0016] A seventh example embodiment provided by the present disclosure is an accommodation structure for a circuit unit, comprising: a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit, wherein the circuit unit comprises: a board accommodated in the space and carrying a circuit; a connector mounted on the board; and a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit, wherein the connector has a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit, and the conductive terminal has a portion extending in a first direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing, the housing has a guide groove extending in the first direction, and the cover has a flange portion disposed in the guide groove.

[0017] An eighth example aspect provided by the present disclosure is an apparatus comprising: a driven element; a housing defining a space; and a circuit unit having a circuit electrically connected to the driven element, wherein the circuit unit comprises: a board accommodated in the space and on which the circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the board; and a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit, wherein the connector comprises a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit, the conductive terminal having a portion extending in a first direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing, the housing having a guide groove extending in the first direction, and the cover having a flange portion disposed in the guide groove.

[0018] According to the seventh and eighth aspects, by sliding the circuit unit along the guide groove extending in the same direction as the portion of the terminal of the connector that is accessible from outside the space, the portion of the terminal can be easily made accessible from outside the space. This improves the efficiency of the work of installing the circuit unit in the housing, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the structure that houses the circuit unit and the device that includes the circuit unit.

[0019] 1 illustrates a lighting device including a circuit unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a circuit unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the configuration of the circuit unit of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 illustrates an appearance of a connector as viewed from the direction of arrow IV in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 illustrates a cross section as viewed from the direction of the arrows along line V-V in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross section as viewed from the direction of the arrows along line VI-VI in FIG. 6. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross section as viewed from the direction of the arrows along line VII-VII in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross section as viewed from the direction of the arrows along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6. FIG. 9 illustrates a lighting device including a circuit unit according to another embodiment.

[0020] The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings used in the following description, the scale has been changed as necessary to make each component recognizable.

[0021] In the accompanying drawings, arrow F indicates the forward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow B indicates the rearward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow U indicates the upward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow D indicates the downward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow R indicates the rightward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow L indicates the leftward direction of the illustrated structure. These directional expressions are intended to be used for convenience of explanation and are not intended to limit the orientation of the structure during actual use.

[0022] The term "front-rear direction" used in this specification means a direction along the aforementioned front and rear directions. The term "up-down direction" used in this specification means a direction along the aforementioned top and bottom directions. The term "left-right direction" used in this specification means a direction along the aforementioned left and right directions.

[0023] The expression "extending in the front-to-rear direction" used in this specification includes extending at an angle relative to the front-to-rear direction, and means extending at an angle closer to the front-to-rear direction than the up-down and left-to-right directions.

[0024] The expression "extending in the vertical direction" used in this specification includes extending at an angle relative to the vertical direction, and means extending at an angle closer to the vertical direction than the front-to-back and left-to-right directions.

[0025] The expression "extending in the left-right direction" used in this specification includes extending at an angle relative to the left-right direction, and means extending at an angle closer to the left-right direction than the front-back and up-down directions.

[0026] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a lighting device 10 according to one embodiment. The lighting device 10 according to this example is configured to be mounted on a vehicle. There is no limitation on the number of wheels that the vehicle has. The vehicle is an example of a moving object.

[0027] The lighting device 10 includes a housing 11 and a translucent cover 12. The housing 11, together with the translucent cover, defines a lamp chamber 13. The lamp chamber 13 is an example of a space defined by a housing.

[0028] The lighting device 10 includes a lamp unit 14. The lamp unit 14 includes a light source 141. The light source 141 is configured to emit visible light. The light source 141 may be a lamp light source or a semiconductor light-emitting element. Examples of semiconductor light-emitting elements include a light-emitting diode, a laser diode, and an electroluminescence element. The light source 141 is configured to emit light including wavelengths in the visible light range. The light emitted from the light source 141 passes through the translucent cover 12 and travels toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0029] The lighting device 10 includes a circuit unit 15. The circuit unit 15 includes a board 151 and a connector 152. The board 151 is housed in the lamp chamber 13. The connector 152 is mounted on the board 151.

[0030] The configuration of the circuit unit 15 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The circuit unit 15 includes an upper cover 153 and a lower cover 154. The upper cover 153 and the lower cover 154 are fastened together with fastening members 156 so as to sandwich the circuit board 151. As a result, the upper cover 153 and the lower cover 154 cover at least a portion of the circuit 155 mounted on the circuit board 151. From the viewpoint of radio wave shielding function for the circuit 155, each of the upper cover 153 and the lower cover 154 is preferably made of metal. The lower cover 154 may be omitted.

[0031] The circuit unit 15 includes an internal connector 157. The circuit 155 is electrically connected to the light source 141 of the lamp unit 14 via the internal connector 157. The circuit 155 includes circuit elements for driving the light source 141. The light source 141 is an example of a driven element.

[0032] As illustrated in Fig. 1, an opening 112 is formed in the rear surface 111 of the housing 11. A portion of the connector 152 of the circuit unit 15 is disposed within the opening 112. Fig. 4 illustrates the configuration as viewed from the direction of arrow IV in Fig. 1. The rear surface 111 is not shown in Fig. 4.

[0033] The connector 152 includes a plurality of terminals 152a and a connector housing 152b. The connector housing 152b is made of an electrically insulating material. The plurality of terminals 152a are supported by the connector housing 152b while ensuring electrical insulation from each other. The plurality of terminals 152a are arranged in the left-right direction.

[0034] In this example, each of the multiple terminals 152a is formed from a conductive material and is electrically connected to the circuit 155. However, not all of the terminals 152a need to be formed from a conductive material and electrically connected to the circuit 155. In other words, the multiple terminals 152a may include dummy terminals.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of a cross section taken along line V-V in Fig. 4, as viewed from the direction of the arrow. As illustrated in Figs. 3 and 5, each terminal 152a has a first portion 152a1. The first portion 152a1 extends in the vertical direction. The vertical direction is an example of a direction intersecting with the substrate 151.

[0036] A plurality of via holes 151a are formed in the substrate 151. In this example, each of the via holes 151a has an inner wall covered with a conductive material. In this example, each of the via holes 151a is a through hole. However, at least one of the plurality of via holes 151a may be a bottomed hole.

[0037] The first portion 152a1 of each terminal 152a corresponds to one of the via holes 151a and is inserted into that one via hole 151a.

[0038] Each terminal 152a is configured as a press-fit terminal. That is, the first portion 152a1 has a width dimension larger than the width dimension of the corresponding via hole 151a in the initial state and includes an elastically deformable portion. Therefore, the terminal 152a is inserted into the via hole 151a by press-fitting.

[0039] The expression "press-fitting" used in this specification means the operation of inserting a member having a width dimension equal to or greater than the width of a hole or recess into the hole or recess.

[0040] As a result, the first portion 152a1 is in elastic contact with the inner wall of the via hole 151a, thereby ensuring electrical connection between the terminal 152a and the circuit 155 via the conductive material covering the inner wall of the via hole 151a.

[0041] Each terminal 152a has a second portion 152a2. The second portion 152a2 extends in the front-rear direction. The front-rear direction is an example of a direction along the board 151. The second portion 152a2 is accessible from outside the lamp chamber 13 through an opening 112 formed in the housing 11.

[0042] The second portion 152a2 is a portion that is used to couple with a terminal of a mating connector (not shown). As an example, the mating connector may be electrically connected to a device located outside the lighting device 10. As another example, the mating connector may be a jumper connector that selectively connects specific terminals together.

[0043] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the connector housing 152b has a plurality of protrusions 152b1. Each of the protrusions 152b1 extends in the vertical direction. That is, each of the protrusions 152b1 extends in a direction intersecting with the board 151. In this example, four of the protrusions 152b1 are provided. However, any one of the protrusions 152b1 may be omitted.

[0044] On the other hand, a plurality of fitting holes 151b are formed in the substrate 151. In this example, each fitting hole 151b is a through hole. However, at least one of the plurality of fitting holes 151b may be a blind hole.

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 5, each of the protrusions 152b1 corresponds to one of the fitting holes 151b and is press-fitted into that one fitting hole 151b.

[0046] By having the above-described configuration, the circuit unit 15 can be manufactured by the following procedure.

[0047] First, a substrate 151 is prepared in which a plurality of via holes 151a and a plurality of fitting holes 151b are formed. The circuit 155 may be mounted on the substrate 151 at this stage, or may be mounted in a later process.

[0048] Next, connector 152 is mounted on substrate 151. Specifically, connector 152 is mounted on substrate 151 so that first portion 152a1 and each protrusion 152b1 of each terminal 152a extend in a direction intersecting with substrate 151. This simultaneously presses each first portion 152a1 into the corresponding via hole 151a and presses each protrusion 152b1 into the corresponding fitting hole 151b. The elastic contact of first portion 152a1 with the inner wall of via hole 151a and the fitting of protrusion 152b1 into fitting hole 151b fixes connector 152 to substrate 151 and electrically connects it to circuit 155.

[0049] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the terminal 152a of the connector 152 is press-fitted into the via hole 151a to ensure electrical connection with the circuit 155. Since there is no need to use additional solder, conductive adhesive, screws, or the like, it is possible to simplify manufacturing equipment and process management, reduce environmental impact, and reduce materials.

[0050] On the other hand, since solder, conductive adhesive, screws, etc. are not used, a decrease in the support strength of terminal 152a by board 151 is unavoidable. However, this decrease in support strength can be compensated for because convex portions 152b1 provided on connector housing 152b that supports terminal 152a are press-fit into fitting holes 151b formed in board 151. In addition, because terminal 152a and convex portions 152b1 are press-fit into board 151 in the same direction and simultaneously, it is possible to eliminate the need to add at least one of a separate part, separate equipment, and separate process to compensate for the decrease in support strength.

[0051] As a result, the manufacturing cost of the circuit unit 15, and therefore the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10 including the circuit unit 15, can be reduced.

[0052] 5, the protrusion 152b1 to be press-fitted into the fitting hole 151b formed in the substrate 151 has a circular cross-sectional shape. However, the cross-sectional shape may be any polygonal shape as long as the protrusion 152b1 can be press-fitted into the fitting hole 151b.

[0053] In this embodiment, press-fit terminals having a simple configuration are used as the terminals 152a of the connector 152. This fact also contributes to reducing the manufacturing cost of the circuit unit 15.

[0054] However, the configuration of first portion 152a1 of terminal 152a press-fitted into via hole 151a can be modified as appropriate as long as electrical connection with circuit 155 can be ensured by elastic contact with the inner wall of via hole 151a. For example, first portion 152a1 can be configured to include a shaft extending in a direction intersecting substrate 151 and a movable body biased by a spring radially outward from the shaft. When first portion 152a1 is press-fitted into via hole 151a, the movable body is displaced radially inward from the shaft against the biasing force of the spring, thereby establishing elastic contact with the inner wall of via hole 151a.

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 1 , in the lighting device 10 according to this embodiment, the circuit board 151 of the circuit unit 15 is accommodated in the housing 11, and the connector 152 is inserted into the opening 112 from the inside of the housing 11, thereby mounting the circuit unit 15 on the lighting device 10.

[0056] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the lighting device 10 includes a sealing member 16. The sealing member 16 is made of an elastic material. The material and shape of the sealing member 16 are determined so as to ensure waterproofing and dustproofing of the lamp chamber 13. Examples of the sealing member 16 include a gasket and an O-ring. The sealing member 16 is attached to the connector 152 so as to be disposed between the connector housing 152b and the opening 112.

[0057] According to this configuration, by disposing the sealing member 16 between the connector housing 152b and the opening 112 of the housing 11, waterproof and dustproof properties can be ensured for the light source 141 of the lamp unit 14 disposed within the lamp chamber 13. In other words, there is no need to provide a waterproof and dustproof structure in the path electrically connecting the circuit unit 15 housed in the housing 11 and the light source 141. Since the number of parts and processes required to ensure waterproof and dustproof properties can be reduced, the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10 can be reduced.

[0058] As described above, the light source 141 and the circuit unit 15 are electrically connected via the internal connector 157. The orientation of the conductive terminals of the internal connector 157 can be determined arbitrarily, but it is preferable that the orientation coincides with the extending direction of the second portion 152a2 of the terminal 152a of the connector 152.

[0059] With this configuration, the direction of the operation of inserting the connector housing 152b into the opening 112 of the housing 11 coincides with the direction of the operation of fitting the connector electrically connected to the light source 141 into the internal connector 157. This improves the ease of assembly, which can contribute to reducing the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10.

[0060] Figure 6 illustrates a cross section taken along line VI-VI in Figure 4 as viewed from the direction of the arrows. As illustrated in Figures 3 and 6, the connector housing 152b of the connector 152 has a pair of protrusions 152b2. Each of the protrusions 152b2 extends in the vertical direction.

[0061] On the other hand, a pair of holes 153a are formed in the upper cover 153. When the upper cover 153 is fastened to the substrate 151 by the fastening members 156, each of the protrusions 152b2 engages with one of the corresponding pair of holes 153a.

[0062] 6, the circuit unit 15 includes fastening members 158. The fastening members 158 fasten the upper cover 153 to the housing 11, thereby fixing the circuit unit 15 to the housing 11.

[0063] Specifically, the fastening member 158 fastens the upper cover 153 to the housing 11 at a position closer to the front end edge 151d, which is farther from the connector 152, than the rear end edge 151c, which is closer to the connector 152, of the two front-to-rear end edges of the board 151.

[0064] For example, when mating with a mating connector, external stress is applied to the connector 152. With the above-described configuration, the stress is transmitted to the upper cover 153 through the protrusion 152b2 of the connector housing 152b and is then released to the housing 11 at the fastening position with the housing 11, which is relatively distant from the connector 152. This makes it possible to prevent the stress applied to the connector 152 from concentrating locally on the board 151.

[0065] Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the need for at least one of a separate component, separate equipment, and separate process for protecting the circuit 155 mounted on the substrate 151 from external stress applied to the connector 152. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10 including the circuit unit 15 can be reduced.

[0066] In this embodiment, the protrusion 152b2 engages with the upper cover 153 at one of the two front-to-rear edges of the substrate 151, closer to the rear edge 151c, which is closer to the connector 152, than to the front edge 151d, which is farther from the connector 152.

[0067] With this configuration, stress applied to the connector 152 can be released to the upper cover 153 more quickly, making it easier to alleviate localized concentration of the stress on the board 151 .

[0068] Fig. 7 illustrates a cross section taken along line VII-VII in Fig. 6, as viewed from the direction of the arrows. Fig. 8 illustrates a cross section taken along line VIII-VIII in Fig. 6, as viewed from the direction of the arrows.

[0069] The housing 11 has a pair of guide walls 113. The pair of guide walls 113 face each other in the left-right direction. Each guide wall 113 has a guide groove 114 formed therein. The guide groove 114 extends in the front-rear direction. That is, the guide groove 114 extends in the same direction as the extension direction of the second portion 152a2 of the terminal 152a of the connector 152.

[0070] On the other hand, the upper cover 153 of the circuit unit 15 has a plurality of flanges 153b. Each flange 153b extends in the left-right direction.

[0071] The circuit unit 15 is attached to the housing 11 by being inserted between the pair of guide walls 113 from the front. As illustrated in Figure 6, the distance between the pair of guide walls 113 in the left-right direction narrows as the connector 152 approaches the rear surface 111. This allows the connector 152 to be guided into the opening 112 while being positioned in the left-right direction.

[0072] At this time, the flanges 153b of the upper cover 153 enter the corresponding guide grooves 114. Each guide groove 114 has a pair of inner walls 114a that face each other in the vertical direction. This allows the connector 152 to be guided into the opening 112 while being positioned in the vertical direction.

[0073] According to the above-described configuration, the terminals 152a of the connector 152 can be easily made accessible from outside the lamp chamber 13 by sliding the circuit unit 15 along the guide groove 114 that extends in the same direction as the second portions 152a2 of the terminals 152a of the connector 152. This improves the efficiency of the work of mounting the circuit unit 15 in the housing 11, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10.

[0074] 8, when the circuit unit 15 is attached to the housing 11, a gap is formed in the vertical direction between the flange 153b of the upper cover 153 and the inner wall 114a of the guide groove 114. The vertical direction in this case is an example of a direction that intersects with the direction in which the guide groove 114 extends.

[0075] With this configuration, as described above, when an external force is applied to the connector 152 from the outside, the upper cover 153 is allowed to displace in the vertical direction. This makes it easier to release the external force to the fastening position with the housing 11, which is relatively far from the connector 152. Therefore, the function of preventing the stress from concentrating locally on the board 151 can be improved.

[0076] As shown in Figure 7, the width of the guide groove 114 in the vertical direction narrows as it approaches the opening 112. Specifically, the pair of inner walls 114a are both formed as inclined surfaces. The angle between the inclined surfaces can be, for example, 3 to 5 degrees. This configuration can improve the positioning function of the connector 152 in the vertical direction.

[0077] As long as the angle formed by the pair of inner walls 114a can be ensured, one of the inner walls 114a can be made flat. When the pair of inner walls 114a face each other in the up-down direction (vertical direction) as in this example, it is preferable that the lower inner wall 114a be made flat. With this configuration, after the circuit unit 15 is attached to the housing 11, the upper cover 153 can be supported by the lower inner wall 114a, thereby improving the stability of the structure.

[0078] As described above, the pair of protrusions 152b2 formed on the connector housing 152b engage with the upper cover 153 via the pair of holes 153a. This makes it easier to transmit force to the connector 152 when inserting the connector 152 into the opening 112 of the housing 11 while holding the upper cover 153. This configuration is advantageous when resistance to insertion of the connector 152 is relatively high (for example, when the sealing member 16 is disposed between the connector housing 152b and the opening 112).

[0079] In this example, the protrusion 152b2, which is intended to allow external forces applied to the connector 152 to escape to the upper cover 153 from the outside, is also used to improve the ease of inserting the connector 152 into the opening 112. However, these two functions may be achieved by an independent engagement structure between the connector 152 and the upper cover 153.

[0080] The fastening member 158 may fasten the upper cover 153 to the housing 11 in any direction, but it is preferable that the fastening be performed along the extending direction of the guide groove 114, as illustrated in FIG.

[0081] With this configuration, the direction of the operation of inserting the connector housing 152b into the opening 112 of the housing 11 coincides with the direction of the operation of fastening the upper cover 153 to the housing 11. This improves the efficiency of the operation of attaching the circuit unit 15 to the housing 11, which can contribute to reducing the manufacturing cost of the lighting device 10.

[0082] The above-described embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the present disclosure, and the configurations according to the above-described embodiments may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0083] In the above embodiment, the first portion 152a1 of the terminal 152a of the connector 152, i.e., the portion accessible from outside the lamp chamber 13 through the opening 112 of the housing 11, extends in a direction along the board 151. However, the orientation of the board 151 and the orientation of the connector 152 may have a relationship as shown in Fig. 9. In this example, the first portion 152a1 and the second portion 152a2 of the terminal 152a both extend in a direction intersecting the board 151.

[0084] In the above embodiment, the connector 152 of the circuit unit 15 is inserted into the opening 112 formed in the rear surface 111 of the housing 11. However, the position of the opening 112 can be determined appropriately depending on the specifications of the lighting device 10. The relationship between the attitude of the board 151 and the attitude of the connector 152 can also be determined appropriately.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the circuit 155 mounted on the substrate 151 of the circuit unit 15 is electrically connected to the light source 141 of the lamp unit 14. However, the circuit 155 may be electrically connected to a device that dissipates heat generated from the light source 141, a device that changes the direction of light emitted from the light source 141, a device that changes the light distribution pattern formed by the light emitted from the light source 141, or the like. These devices are also examples of driven elements.

[0086] The circuit unit 15 does not need to be mounted on the lighting device 10. The circuit 155 may control the operation of a sensor housed in a space partitioned by the housing 11. That is, the circuit unit 15 may be mounted on a sensor device for acquiring predetermined information. Examples of sensors include a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor, a camera, a millimeter-wave radar, an ultrasonic sensor, and a temperature sensor. These sensors are also examples of driven elements.

[0087] The lighting device 10 and the above-described sensor device may be mounted on a moving object other than a vehicle. Examples of other moving objects include an aircraft, a flying object, a ship, etc. The moving object may not require a driver.

[0088] The lighting device 10 and the above-described sensor devices do not need to be mounted on a mobile object. For example, the lighting device 10 and the above-described sensor devices can be applied to systems installed in homes, facilities, transportation infrastructure, etc., and operated in response to an object entering a specific area. The lighting device 10 can also be applied to a device that temporarily displays predetermined figures, letters, signs, etc. on a specific road surface or wall surface.

[0089] The circuit unit 15 does not need to be electrically connected to a specific driven element. In this case, the housing 11 having the opening 112 can function as an accommodation structure for the circuit unit 15. According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the manufacturing cost of the accommodation structure can also be reduced.

[0090] As part of this disclosure, the contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-044215 filed on March 18, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-044216 filed on March 18, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-044217 filed on March 18, 2022 are incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A board on which the circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the substrate; It is equipped with The connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; a connector housing supporting the conductive terminals; It is equipped with the conductive terminal extends in a direction intersecting the substrate and has a portion in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate; The connector housing extends in a direction intersecting the board and has a protrusion fitted into a hole formed in the board. Circuit unit.

2. The conductive terminal is a press-fit terminal. The circuit unit according to claim 1 .

3. providing a substrate on which a circuit is to be mounted; preparing a connector including conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit, a connector housing supporting the conductive terminals, and a protrusion formed on the connector housing; a step of mounting the connector on the substrate so that the conductive terminals and the protrusions extend in a direction intersecting the substrate, thereby bringing the conductive terminals into elastic contact with inner walls of via holes formed in the substrate and fitting the protrusions into holes formed in the substrate; Contains, A method for manufacturing a circuit unit.

4. A housing that divides the space; A circuit unit; It contains The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and having a circuit mounted thereon; a connector mounted on the substrate; It is equipped with The connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; a connector housing supporting the conductive terminals; It is equipped with The conductive terminal is a first portion extending in a first direction intersecting the substrate and in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate; a second portion extending in a second direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; It has The connector housing extends in the first direction and has a protrusion fitted into a hole formed in the board. Circuit unit housing structure.

5. A driven element; and A housing that divides the space; a circuit unit including a circuit electrically connected to the driven element; It is equipped with The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and on which the circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the substrate; It is equipped with The connector comprises: a conductive terminal electrically connected to the circuit; a connector housing supporting the conductive terminals; It is equipped with The conductive terminal is a first portion extending in a first direction intersecting the substrate and in elastic contact with an inner wall of a via hole formed in the substrate; a second portion extending in a second direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; It has The connector housing extends in the first direction and has a protrusion fitted into a hole formed in the board. Device.

6. a sealing member disposed between the connector housing and the opening; 6. The apparatus of claim 5.

7. the second direction is a direction along the substrate, The driven element and the circuit unit are electrically connected to each other through conductive terminals extending in the second direction.

7. The device according to claim 5 or 6.

8. the driven element is a light source; 7. The device according to claim 5 or 6.

9. configured to be mounted on a moving object, 7. The device according to claim 5 or 6.

10. A housing that divides the space; A circuit unit; It contains The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and having a circuit mounted thereon; a connector mounted on the substrate; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit and engaging the connector; a fastening member fastening the cover to the housing; It is equipped with the connector has conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit; the conductive terminal extends in a first direction along the substrate and has a portion accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; the fastening member fastens the cover to the housing at a position closer to an edge farther from the connector than an edge closer to the connector, among both end edges of the board in the first direction; Circuit unit housing structure.

11. A driven element; and A housing that divides the space; a circuit unit including a circuit electrically connected to the driven element; It is equipped with The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and on which the circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the substrate; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit and engaging the connector; a fastening member fastening the cover to the housing; It is equipped with the connector has conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit; the conductive terminal extends in a first direction along the substrate and has a portion accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; the fastening member fastens the cover to the housing at a position closer to an edge farther from the connector than an edge closer to the connector, among both end edges of the board in the first direction; Device.

12. the connector extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and has a protrusion that engages with the cover at a position closer to an edge closer to the connector than to an edge farther from the connector, among the both end edges; 12. The apparatus of claim 11.

13. The housing has a guide groove extending in the first direction, the cover has a flange portion disposed in the guide groove, a gap is formed between the flange portion and the inner wall of the guide groove in a second direction intersecting the first direction; 13. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The fastening member fastens the cover to the housing along the first direction.

13. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

15. a sealing member disposed between the connector and the opening; 13. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

16. the driven element is a light source; 13. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

17. configured to be mounted on a moving object, 13. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

18. A housing that divides the space; A circuit unit; It contains The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and having a circuit mounted thereon; a connector mounted on the substrate; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit; It is equipped with the connector has conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit; the conductive terminal has a portion extending in a first direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; The housing has a guide groove extending in the first direction, The cover has a flange portion disposed in the guide groove. Circuit unit housing structure.

19. A driven element; and A housing that divides the space; a circuit unit including a circuit electrically connected to the driven element; It is equipped with The circuit unit includes: a substrate accommodated in the space and on which the circuit is mounted; a connector mounted on the substrate; a cover covering at least a portion of the circuit; It is equipped with the connector has conductive terminals electrically connected to the circuit; the conductive terminal has a portion extending in a first direction and accessible from outside the space through an opening formed in the housing; The housing has a guide groove extending in the first direction, The cover has a flange portion disposed in the guide groove. Device.

20. The connector has a protrusion extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and engaging with the cover.

20. The apparatus of claim 19.

21. The width of the guide groove in a second direction intersecting with the first direction becomes narrower as it approaches the opening.

21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20.

22. the second direction corresponds to a vertical direction; the guide groove has a flat surface and an inclined surface that face each other in the vertical direction, The flat surface is disposed downward in the vertical direction.

22. The apparatus of claim 21.

23. a fastening member for fastening the cover to the housing along the first direction; 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20.

24. a sealing member disposed between the connector and the opening; 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20.

25. the driven element is a light source; 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20.

26. configured to be mounted on a moving object, 21. Apparatus according to claim 19 or 20.