Electric connector

Abstract

An electrical connector that combines with a counterpart connector is provided. The above electrical connector comprises a mold portion including a first mold portion and a second mold portion, and a first signal terminal row which is a set of a plurality of signal terminals arranged in the longitudinal direction of the electrical connector and disposed in the first mold portion. The second mold portion is combined with the first mold portion while partially wrapping around it to form the mold portion, and some of the plurality of signal terminals included in the first signal terminal row have a first outer mounting portion on the outer side in the width direction of the electrical connector, and other portions have a first inner mounting portion on the inner side in the width direction of the electrical connector. One or more first inspection windows that expose at least a portion of the first inner mounting portion are formed in the mold portion, and The first inspection window is formed by one surface of the first mold part and three surfaces of the second mold part.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical connector. More specifically, it relates to an electrical connector having a plurality of inspection windows, which are vertical holes, formed such that the mounting portion of a signal terminal and / or the mounting status thereof can be checked through a camera or the like, wherein the end portion of the signal terminal is formed to face the inside of the electrical connector. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, when substrates are interconnected, two connectors are used to connect each substrate by a method such as soldering, and said two connectors can be connected to each other. Here, one of the two connectors is a plug connector, and the other is a socket connector. The socket connector is also called a receptacle connector. These plug connector and socket connector can be formed by placing terminals in a molded portion. The plug connector and socket connector can be joined together to form an electrical connector assembly.

[0003] Due to the trend toward miniaturization of electronic devices, there is a growing demand for the miniaturization and low-profile design of connectors. However, there are currently certain limitations to miniaturizing and reducing the profile of connectors by simply decreasing the pitch or making components smaller.

[0004] Meanwhile, as connectors have become smaller, it has become more difficult to ensure their durability than before. This is because the components are smaller, making them more susceptible to damage from even small forces.

[0005] Furthermore, when manufacturing the molded parts of miniaturized connectors, it is becoming increasingly difficult to create the desired shape in a single step. Additionally, as connectors become smaller, it is becoming increasingly difficult to verify whether the connector terminals are properly mounted on the circuit board, or if they are in a state where they can be properly mounted. The problem to be solved

[0006] The technical problem that the present invention aims to solve is to form the mold part by multiple insert moldings to obtain a desired complex shape while ensuring sufficient strength and reliability of the mold part.

[0007] In addition, as connectors become smaller, it is becoming increasingly difficult to verify whether the connector terminals are properly mounted on the circuit board or if they are in a state to be properly mounted; making such inspections easier is also a task.

[0008] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0009] According to the present invention,

[0010] As an electrical connector that combines with a mating connector,

[0011] The mold part, and

[0012] A first signal terminal row disposed in the above-mentioned mold portion and being a set of a plurality of signal terminals arranged in the longitudinal direction of the electrical connector, and

[0013] A second signal terminal row disposed in the mold portion, positioned at a different location from the first signal terminal row in the width direction of the electrical connector, and comprising a set of other plurality of signal terminals arranged in the length direction of the electrical connector.

[0014] Includes,

[0015] Some of the plurality of signal terminals included in the first signal terminal row have a first outer mounting portion on the outer side in the width direction of the electrical connector, and other portions have a first inner mounting portion on the inner side in the width direction of the electrical connector.

[0016] Some of the plurality of signal terminals included in the second signal terminal row have a second outer mounting portion on the outer side in the width direction of the electrical connector, and other portions have a second inner mounting portion on the inner side in the width direction of the electrical connector.

[0017] One or more first inspection windows that expose at least a portion of the first inner mounting portion are formed in the mold portion, and

[0018] An electrical connector is provided in which, separately from the first inspection window, one or more second inspection windows are formed in the mold portion to expose at least a portion of the second inner mounting portion.

[0019] Preferably, in the first signal terminal row, a signal terminal having a first outer mounting portion and a signal terminal having a first inner mounting portion are alternately arranged one by one.

[0020] Preferably, the first inspection window is a plurality of times.

[0021] Preferably, one first inspection window is installed for each of the first inner mounting parts.

[0022] Preferably, in the second signal terminal row, a signal terminal having a second outer mounting portion and a signal terminal having a second inner mounting portion are alternately arranged one by one.

[0023] One second inspection window is also installed for each of the second inner mounting parts.

[0024] The plurality of first inspection windows and the plurality of second inspection windows are arranged in a zigzag shape.

[0025] Preferably, the first inspection window and the second inspection window are formed in the central island of the electrical connector. Effects of the invention

[0026] According to the present invention, a mold part is formed by multiple insert moldings, thereby obtaining a desired complex shape while sufficiently obtaining strength and reliability of the mold part.

[0027] In addition, according to the present invention, a plurality of inspection windows (20-IW) are arranged in a zigzag (thousand-bird) shape. In this way, a wider space compared to the actual pitch between adjacent terminals can be utilized as the pitch during mounting, and at the same time, due to the presence of an inspection window (20-IW) which is a vertical through hole in the height direction (Z direction), the mounting status of the inner mounting part (20-3IM) can be easily checked through a camera or the like.

[0028] In other words, it is easy to check whether the terminals of the miniaturized connector are properly mounted on the circuit board (or whether they are in a state where they can be properly mounted).

[0029] The effects according to the present invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and various other effects are included in this specification. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a plug connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a front view of the plug connector (10) of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a bottom view of the plug connector (10) of Figure 1. FIG. 4 is a side view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a socket connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a front view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a side view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another example of a plug connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a front view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9 from a different angle. FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another example of a socket connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention. FIG. 14 is a front view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 from a different angle. FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13. FIG. 17 is a drawing showing the preparation steps of the signal terminal (20-3) and the fitting (20-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the preparation step of the first mold part (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 19 is a drawing showing the step of removing the carrier after the preparation of the first mold part (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 20 is a drawing showing the step of arranging two first mold parts (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the step of arranging two first mold parts (20-5-1) and additionally arranging a metal fitting (20-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 22 is a drawing showing the step of insert molding a second mold part (20-5-2) while the first mold part (20-5-1) and the metal fitting (20-1) are arranged in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16. FIG. 23 is a top view of a specific example of the first mold part (20-5-1) shown in FIG. 20. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the first mold part (20-5-1) shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 25 shows another example of a plug connector (10) according to the present invention. FIG. 26 shows another example of a socket connector (20) according to the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a plug connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention.

[0033] In FIG. 1, for example, a metal fitting (10-1; which may also serve as a power terminal), a signal terminal (10-3), and a housing (10-5; molded part) of a plug connector (10) are shown.

[0034] The metal fitting (10-1) may be a metal structure to reinforce the strength of the connector (10). This metal fitting (10-1) may function as a power terminal to input and output power electrical signals. The signal terminal (10-3) may input and output data signals.

[0035] However, this is an example and is not limited thereto. For instance, the metal fitting (10-1) may also serve as a power terminal and may be made as a separate component.

[0036] Additionally, for example, the signal terminal (10-3) may be composed of multiple PINs that allow a current of 0.3A, or it may be a terminal that allows a current of up to 5A to function as a power terminal, exceeding 0.3A. For example, in FIG. 1, the number of PINs of the signal terminal is 36.

[0037] The housing (10-5) has a base portion. The housing (10-5) has a wall portion protruding from the upper surface of the base portion, and a fitting (10-1), a signal terminal (10-3), etc. are formed on the wall portion.

[0038] The housing (10-5; molded part) of the plug connector (10) is preferably made of a plastic material, for example, Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP). Additionally, the housing (10-5) may be formed of an insulator including resin and epoxy, but is not limited thereto. The power terminal (10-2) and signal terminal (10-3) of the plug connector (10) are preferably made of a metal material, but are not limited thereto, for example, copper, or a copper alloy with gold plating (nickel under layer).

[0039] The metal fitting (10-1) may be made of the same or similar material as the signal terminal (10-3).

[0040] Figure 2 is a front view of the plug connector (10) of Figure 1.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 1 and with reference to FIG. 2, the signal terminal (10-3) is used in two types: one in which the mounting portion (10-3OM) is positioned so as to face the outside of the connector (10-3O), and one in which the mounting portion (10-3IM) is positioned so as to face the inside of the connector (10-3I).

[0042] In FIG. 2, it can be seen that the mounting portion (10-3OM) of the signal terminal (10-3O) is positioned on the outside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (10), and the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I) is positioned on the inside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (10).

[0043] Also, the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I) can be seen through an inspection window (10-IW). Of course, it is possible to check visually through this inspection window (10-IW), but for example, if the connector (10) of the present invention is a very small connector used in small electronic devices such as smartphones, it would be preferable to use the inspection window (10-IW) for visual verification (machine vision) through a device such as a camera. Through this inspection window (10-IW), it is possible to check whether the inner mounting portion (10-3IM) is properly mounted.

[0044] Figure 3 is a bottom view of the plug connector (10) of Figure 1.

[0045] As described in FIGS. 1 and 2, the mounting portion (10-3OM) of the signal terminal (10-3O; hereinafter also referred to as the outer signal terminal) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10), and the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I; hereinafter also referred to as the inner signal terminal) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10).

[0046] FIG. 4 is a side view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 1.

[0047] It can be seen that the outer mounting portions (10-30M) shown in Fig. 4 are arranged by skipping one by one as in Fig. 1.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a socket connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention.

[0049] The socket connector (20) is also called a receptacle connector (20).

[0050] It can be seen that the plug connector (10) of FIGS. 1 to 4 is inverted vertically (inverted in the Z direction) and is coupled to the socket connector (20) of FIGS. 5 to 8.

[0051] FIG. 5 illustrates, for example, a metal fitting (20-1; which may also serve as a power terminal), a signal terminal (20-3), and a housing (20-5; molded part) of a socket connector (20).

[0052] The metal fitting (20-1) may be a metal structure to reinforce the strength of the connector (20). The metal fitting may also function as a power terminal to input and output power electrical signals. The signal terminal (20-3) may input and output data signals. These are connected to the metal fitting (10-1) and the signal terminal (10-3) of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 1, respectively.

[0053] However, the formation and arrangement shown in FIG. 5 are examples and are not limited thereto. For instance, the metal fitting (20-1) may be made to serve as a power terminal or may be made as a separate component.

[0054] Additionally, for example, the signal terminal (20-3) may be composed of multiple PINs that allow a current of 0.3A, or it may be a terminal that allows a current of up to 5A to function as a power terminal, exceeding 0.3A. For example, in FIG. 5, the number of PINs is 36.

[0055] The housing (20-5) has a base portion. The housing (20-5) has a wall portion protruding from the upper surface of the base portion, and a fitting (20-1), a signal terminal (20-3), etc. are formed on the wall portion. Additionally, the housing (20-5) has a center island portion protruding from the upper surface of the base portion. This center island portion, which is part of the housing (20-5), is partially covered by the fitting (20-1).

[0056] The housing (20-5; molded part) of the socket connector (20) is preferably made of a plastic material, for example, Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP). Additionally, the housing (20-5) may be formed from an insulator including resin and epoxy, but is not limited thereto. The metal fittings (20-1) and signal terminals (20-3) of the socket connector (20) are preferably made of a metal material, but are not limited thereto; for example, they may be copper, or a copper alloy with gold plating (nickel under layer).

[0057] The metal fitting (20-1) may be made of the same or similar material as the signal terminal (20-3).

[0058] FIG. 6 is a front view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 5 and with reference to FIG. 6, the signal terminal (20-3) is used in two types: one in which the mounting portion (20-3OM) is positioned so as to face the outside of the connector (20-3O), and one in which the mounting portion (20-3IM) is positioned so as to face the inside of the connector (20-3I).

[0060] In FIG. 6, it can be seen that the mounting portion (20-3OM) of the signal terminal (20-3O) is positioned on the outside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (20), and the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I) is positioned on the inside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (20).

[0061] Also, the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I) can be seen through the inspection window (20-IW). Of course, it is possible to check visually through this inspection window (20-IW), but for example, if the connector (20) of the present invention is a very small connector used in small electronic devices such as smartphones, it would be preferable to use the inspection window (20-IW) for visual verification (machine vision) through a device such as a camera. Through this inspection window (20-IW), it is possible to check whether the inner mounting portion (20-3IM) is properly mounted.

[0062] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5.

[0063] As described in FIGS. 5 and 6, the mounting portion (20-3OM) of the signal terminal (20-3O; hereinafter also referred to as the outer signal terminal) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20), and the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I; hereinafter also referred to as the inner signal terminal) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20).

[0064] FIG. 8 is a side view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 5.

[0065] It can be seen that the outer mounting portions (20-30M) shown in Fig. 8 are arranged by skipping one by one as in Fig. 5.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another example of a plug connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention.

[0067] The plug connector (10) of FIG. 9 is similar to the plug connector (10) of FIG. 1 to 4. However, there are some differences in the illustration, such as the number of pins of the signal terminal (10-3) and the mold part (10-5) being more clearly shown as multiple parts (10-5-1, 10-5-2).

[0068] The number of pins of the signal terminal (10-3) can be changed arbitrarily as needed, so there is no particular difference compared to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0069] However, in FIG. 9, the mold part (10-5) is not formed as a single resin mass from the beginning but is formed in two stages, that is, the first mold part (10-5-1) is formed by injection molding by insert molding, and then the second mold part (10-5-2) is formed by injection molding by insert molding in a shape that partially surrounds the first mold part (10-5-1). Thus, the mold part (10-5) is formed by at least two insert moldings.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a front view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 9 and with reference to FIG. 10, the signal terminal (10-3) is used in two types: one in which the mounting portion (10-3OM) is positioned so as to face the outside of the connector (10-3O), and one in which the mounting portion (10-3IM) is positioned so as to face the inside of the connector (10-3I).

[0072] In FIG. 10, it can be seen that the mounting portion (10-3OM) of the signal terminal (10-3O) is positioned on the outside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (10), and the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I) is positioned on the inside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (10).

[0073] Also, the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I) can be seen through the inspection window (10-IW). Of course, it is possible to check visually through this inspection window (10-IW), but for example, if the connector (10) of the present invention is a very small connector used in small electronic devices such as smartphones, it would be preferable to use the inspection window (10-IW) for visual verification (machine vision) through a device such as a camera. Through this inspection window (10-IW), it is possible to check whether the inner mounting portion (10-3IM) is properly mounted.

[0074] In addition, here too, the first mold part (10-5-1) is formed, and the second mold part (10-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (10-5) is formed overall.

[0075] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9 from a different angle.

[0076] As described in FIGS. 9 and 10, the mounting portion (10-3OM) of the signal terminal (10-3O; hereinafter also referred to as the outer signal terminal) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10), and the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the signal terminal (10-3I; hereinafter also referred to as the inner signal terminal) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10).

[0077] In addition, here too, the first mold part (10-5-1) is formed, and the second mold part (10-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (10-5) is formed overall.

[0078] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9.

[0079] As described in FIG. 11, the mounting portion (10-3OM) of the outer signal terminal (10-3O) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10), and the mounting portion (10-3IM) of the inner signal terminal (10-3I) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (10).

[0080] And, it can be seen that the first mold part (10-5-1) is formed and the second mold part (10-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (10-5) is formed overall.

[0081] Although this may appear different from Fig. 3 in terms of the city, the cases of Figs. 1 to 4 in the present invention do not necessarily mean that the mold part (10-5) is formed in a single molding process, and should be understood to include cases where the mold part (10-5) is formed by multiple molding processes, as in Fig. 12.

[0082] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another example of a socket connector among electrical connectors according to the present invention.

[0083] The socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 is coupled to the plug connector (10) of FIG. 9 to 12.

[0084] Also, the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 is similar to the plug connector (10) of FIG. 5 to 8. However, there are some differences in the illustration, such as the number of pins of the signal terminal (20-3) and the mold part (20-5) being more clearly shown as multiple parts (20-5-1, 20-5-2).

[0085] The number of pins of the signal terminal (20-3) can be changed arbitrarily as needed, so there is no particular difference compared to FIGS. 5 to 8.

[0086] However, in FIG. 13, the mold part (20-5) is not formed as a single resin mass from the beginning but is formed in two stages, that is, the first mold part (20-5-1) is formed by injection molding by insert molding, and then the second mold part (20-5-2) is formed by injection molding by insert molding in a shape that partially surrounds the first mold part (20-5-1). Thus, the mold part (20-5) is formed by at least two insert moldings.

[0087] In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, it can be seen that the central island is formed by the cooperation of a part of the first mold part (20-5-1) and a part of the second mold part (20-5-2). It can also be seen that an inspection window (20-IW) is formed in the central island.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a front view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 13 and with reference to FIG. 14, the signal terminal (20-3) is used in two types: one in which the mounting portion (20-3OM) is positioned so as to face the outside of the connector (20-3O), and one in which the mounting portion (20-3IM) is positioned so as to face the inside of the connector (20-3I).

[0090] In FIG. 14, it can be seen that the mounting portion (20-3OM) of the signal terminal (20-3O) is positioned on the outside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (20), and the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I) is positioned on the inside (outside in the Y direction) of the connector (20).

[0091] Also, the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I) can be seen through the inspection window (20-IW). Of course, it is possible to check visually through this inspection window (20-IW), but for example, if the connector (20) of the present invention is a very small connector used in small electronic devices such as smartphones, it would be preferable to use the inspection window (20-IW) for visual verification (machine vision) through a device such as a camera. Through this inspection window (20-IW), it is possible to check whether the inner mounting portion (20-3IM) is properly mounted.

[0092] In addition, here too, the first mold part (20-5-1) is formed, and the second mold part (20-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (20-5) is formed overall.

[0093] Also, as shown in FIG. 14, multiple inspection windows (20-IW) are arranged in a zigzag (thousand-bird) shape. When arranged in this way, it produces the effect of doubling the pitch when mounting signal terminals. That is, if the pitch between signal terminals in the longitudinal direction of the connector (20) is A, then one signal terminal (10-3I) has its mounting portion (20-3IM) facing inward towards the connector (20), and the adjacent other signal terminal (10-3O) has its mounting portion (20-3OM) facing outward towards the connector (20). Therefore, the inner mounting portions (20-3IM) have a pitch of 2A, and the outer mounting portions (20-3OM) also have a pitch of 2A.

[0094] In this way, a wider space compared to the actual pitch with adjacent terminals can be utilized as the pitch during mounting, and at the same time, due to the presence of an inspection window (20-IW) which is a vertical through hole in the height direction (Z direction), the mounting status of the inner mounting part (20-3IM) can be easily checked through a camera, etc.

[0095] Of course, the zigzag arrangement is just one example, and variations of that arrangement are also possible.

[0096] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 from a different angle.

[0097] As described in FIGS. 13 and 14, the mounting portion (20-3OM) of the signal terminal (20-3O; hereinafter also referred to as the outer signal terminal) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20), and the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the signal terminal (20-3I; hereinafter also referred to as the inner signal terminal) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20).

[0098] In addition, here too, the first mold part (20-5-1) is formed, and the second mold part (20-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (20-5) is formed overall.

[0099] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13.

[0100] As described in FIG. 15, the mounting portion (20-3OM) of the outer signal terminal (20-30) is positioned on the outer side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20), and the mounting portion (20-3IM) of the inner signal terminal (20-3I) is positioned on the inner side (outer side in the Y direction) of the connector (20).

[0101] And, the first mold part (20-5-1) is formed, and the second mold part (20-5-2) is formed in addition thereto, so that the mold part (20-5) is formed overall.

[0102] Although this may appear different from FIG. 7 in terms of the city, the cases of FIG. 5 to 8 in the present invention do not necessarily mean that the mold part (20-5) is formed in a single molding process, and should be understood to include cases where the mold part (20-5) is formed by multiple molding processes, similar to FIG. 16.

[0103] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing the preparation steps of the signal terminal (20-3) and the fitting (20-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0104] As a first step to making a socket connector (20) like that of FIG. 14, signal terminals (20-3) are arranged while attached to a carrier. In FIG. 14, six signal terminals (20-3) are arranged in a row in the -Y direction, and six signal terminals (20-3) are arranged in a row in the +Y direction.

[0105] On the left side of FIG. 17, among the six signal terminals (20-3), the outer signal terminal (20-3O) is attached to the signal terminal carrier (20-3O-C). Also, among the six signal terminals (20-3), the inner signal terminal (20-3I) is attached to the signal terminal carrier (20-3I-C). This is, for example, six signal terminals (20-3) arranged in a row in the -Y direction in FIG. 14.

[0106] In addition, on the right side of Fig. 17, it can be seen that a metal fitting (20-1) is prepared with the metal fitting carrier (20-1-C) attached to it.

[0107] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the preparation step of the first mold part (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0108] As shown on the left side of FIG. 17, the first mold part (20-5-1) can be seen formed by the first insert molding with six signal terminals arranged. In FIG. 18, a protrusion (20-5-1P) is formed on the left side of the first mold part (20-5-1), and a concave part (20-5-1G) is formed on the right side of the first mold part (20-5-1). Although the concave part (20-5-1G) is not clearly visible in FIG. 18, it may be formed concavely, for example, in a shape corresponding to the protrusion (20-5-1P).

[0109] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing the step of removing the carrier after the preparation of the first mold part (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0110] FIG. 19 is identical to FIG. 18, but it can be seen that the carrier (20-3I-C) of the inner signal terminal (20-3I) has been removed. This is to create space for arranging six signal terminals (20-3) in another row in addition to the six signal terminals (20-3) in one row shown in FIG. 19.

[0111] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing the step of arranging two first mold parts (20-5-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0112] Two 'combinations of the first mold part (20-5-1) and the carrier (20-30-C)' made as in FIG. 19 are prepared and arranged as in FIG. 20.

[0113] The specific shape of the first mold part (20-5-1) shown in FIG. 20 will be described in more detail later in FIG. 23 and 24.

[0114] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the step of arranging two first mold parts (20-5-1) and additionally arranging a metal fitting (20-1) in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0115] In the first mold part (20-5-1), a protrusion (20-5-1P) is formed at one end and a concave part (20-5-1G) is formed at the other end.

[0116] FIG. 21 shows that two additional first metal fittings (20-1) are arranged next to the two first mold parts (20-5-1) arranged as in FIG. 20. At this time, carriers (20-30-C, 20-1-C) are attached to each of the first mold parts (20-5-1) and the first metal fittings (20-1).

[0117] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing the step of insert molding a second mold part (20-5-2) while the first mold part (20-5-1) and the metal fitting (20-1) are arranged in the process of forming the socket connector (20) of FIG. 13 to 16.

[0118] It can be seen that a second mold part (20-5-2) has been added in Fig. 22 compared to Fig. 21. In the process of forming the second mold part (20-5-2) by insert molding, the injected resin engages with the protrusion (20-5-1P) and the concave part (20-5-1G) present in the first mold part (20-5-1), and the second mold part (20-5-2) is formed while being strongly bonded to the first mold part (20-5-1).

[0119] And, as can be seen in FIG. 22, the second mold part (20-5-2) wraps around the first mold part (20-5-1) on, for example, three sides. Of course, as can be seen in FIG. 22, since the inspection window (20-IW) part is in slightly less contact, it is not necessary to wrap around the entire three sides. In this way, by wrapping around, for example, three sides, the first mold part (20-5-1) and the second mold part (20-5-2) are more strongly bonded.

[0120] Wrapping three sides is an example, but it is more preferable to wrap four sides by adding longitudinal concave portions (20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4) as described later in FIG. 24, etc.

[0121] FIGS. 17–22 are for the manufacturing steps of a socket connector (20), but they can be similarly applied to the manufacturing of a plug connector (10).

[0122] FIG. 23 is a top view of a specific example of the first mold part (20-5-1) shown in FIG. 20.

[0123] In FIG. 23, two first mold parts (20-5-1) are arranged. The carrier (20-30-C) shown in FIG. 20 has been omitted.

[0124] Although the position of the protrusion (20-5-1P) is depicted slightly differently in FIG. 20 and FIG. 23, it is sufficient that the protrusion (20-5-1P) is located at one end and the concave portion (20-5-1G) is located at the other end, based on the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the first mold portion (20-5-1). That is, whether the protrusion (20-5-1P) is on the right or the left, the concave portion (20-5-1G) must be on the opposite side.

[0125] Also, in FIG. 20 and FIG. 23, the position of the protrusion (20-5-1P) in the Y direction is depicted somewhat differently, but it is also acceptable whether it is slightly skewed toward the +Y direction, slightly skewed toward the -Y direction, or in the middle.

[0126] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the first mold part (20-5-1) shown in FIG. 23.

[0127] FIG. 24 shows the same object as FIG. 23, but when viewed from a perspective view, it can be seen that additional concave portions (20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4) may exist.

[0128] If the concave portion (20-5-1G) mentioned in Fig. 23 is called the first concave portion, it can be called the second concave portion (20-5-1G2), the third concave portion (20-5-1G3), the fourth concave portion (20-5-1G4), and so on.

[0129] It can be seen that the second to fourth concave portions (20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4), which are additionally formed in addition to the first concave portion (20-5-1G), are all extended in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the connector (20). The reason for additionally forming the longitudinal concave portions (20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4) is to fill the concave portions (20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4) with a resin solution to form the second mold portion (20-5-2) during the second insert molding (i.e., the process of forming the second mold portion (20-5-2) while moving from the state of FIG. 21 to FIG. 22).

[0130] Of course, the resin solution is filled in the first concave portion (20-5-1G), but additionally, the resin solution is filled and hardened in the second to fourth concave portions (longitudinal concave portions; 20-5-1G2, 20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4), thereby forming a second mold portion (20-5-2) that roughly surrounds the first mold portion (20-5-1) entirely (i.e., surrounds it on four sides). This increases the fastening strength between the first mold portion (20-5-1) and the second mold portion (20-5-2) and helps improve the overall strength of the connector (20).

[0131] For reference, the term "enclosing the four sides" does not mean that it must be completely enclosed in every part of the four sides. For example, it is possible to enclose by skipping the part where the inspection window (20-IW) is formed (see FIG. 16, etc.). Also, in FIG. 24, the second concave portion (20-5-1G2) in the longitudinal direction is connected in a single line along the entire longitudinal direction, but it does not necessarily need to be formed along the 'entire' longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the second concave portion (20-5-1G2) may consist of two concave portions formed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., a form in which there is no concave portion in the middle part). The same applies to the third concave portion (20-5-1G3) and the fourth concave portion (20-5-1G). However, considering strength, it is preferable for it to be connected along the entire longitudinal direction.

[0132] In FIG. 24, there is one long concave portion (20-5-1G2) in the outer wall portion of the first mold part (20-5-1) and two long concave portions (20-5-1G3, 20-5-1G4) in the inner wall portion, but the number is not limited. Since the concave portions are intended to securely fix the injection molded product (i.e., the second injection molded product) in the second insert molding for making the second mold part (20-5-2), they can be made in the necessary number considering the required strength or size. However, if there is at least one in the inner wall and at least one in the outer wall, it will be possible to provide a certain degree of fixing force. The appearance of the second injection molded product filling the concave portion (20-5-1G2) of the outer wall can be seen in FIG. 13, 15, etc.

[0133] For reference, FIGS. 17–24 are examples of socket connectors (20), but plug connectors (10) can also be made using basically the same principle.

[0134] FIG. 25 shows another example of a plug connector (10) according to the present invention.

[0135] This is similar to that shown in FIG. 2, but it can be seen that instead of having one mounting part in one inspection window (10-IW), multiple mounting parts (10-3IM) are exposed in one inspection window (10-IW).

[0136] For reference, it is possible to assume that all inner mounting parts (10-3IM) are included in a single inspection window (10-IW), but this is not desirable because the strength of the connector (10) is weakened. This is because there is a high possibility that various usage problems may occur, such as the part of the mold supporting the row of signal terminals arranged in the longitudinal direction (X direction) bending.

[0137] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 25, it is also possible to have one inspection window (10-IW) in one signal terminal row and another inspection window (10-IW) in another signal terminal row. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, in another way, it may be possible to have one inspection window (10-IW) for every two or three signal terminals (10-3).

[0138] Additionally, the mold part (10-5) shown in FIG. 25 may also be formed by a plurality of insert moldings (e.g., a first mold part (10-5-1) and a second mold part (10-5-2)).

[0139] FIG. 26 shows another example of a socket connector (20) according to the present invention.

[0140] FIG. 26 is a socket connector (20) corresponding to the plug connector (10) of FIG. 25.

[0141] FIG. 26 is similar to FIG. 6, but it can be seen that instead of one mounting part in one inspection window (20-IW), multiple mounting parts (20-3IM) are exposed in one inspection window (20-IW).

[0142] The mold part (20-5) shown in FIG. 26 may also be formed by a plurality of insert moldings (e.g., a first mold part and a second mold part).

[0143] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be manufactured in various different forms. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Explanation of the symbols

[0144] 10: Plug connector 10-1: Geumgu 10-3: Signal terminal 10-30: External signal terminal 10-30-M: Mounting part of the external signal terminal 10-3I: Internal signal terminal 10-3I-M: Mounting part of the inner signal terminal 10-5: Housing (Molded part) 10-5-1: 1st Mold Part 10-5-2: Second mold section 10-IW: Inspection Window 20: Receptacle connector (socket connector) 20-1: Geumgu 20-3: Signal terminal 20-30: External signal terminal 20-30-M: Mounting part of the external signal terminal 20-3I: Internal signal terminal 20-3I-M: Mounting part of the inner signal terminal 20-5: Housing (Molded part) 20-5-1: 1st mold section 20-5-1P: Protrusion 20-5-1G: Concave region (1st concave region) 20-5-1G2: Second concave part 20-5-1G3: Third depression 20-5-1G4: 4th depression 20-5-2: Second mold section 20-IW: Inspection Window

Claims

Claim 1 An electric connector (10, 20) coupled with a counterpart connector, comprising a mold portion including a first mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) and a second mold portion (10-5-2, 20-5-2), and a first signal terminal row (10-3, 20-3) disposed in the first mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) and comprising a set of a plurality of signal terminals arranged in the longitudinal direction of the electric connector, wherein the second mold portion (10-5-2, 20-5-2) partially surrounds and combines with the first mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) to form the mold portion, and a portion of the plurality of signal terminals included in the first signal terminal row (10-3, 20-3) forms a first outer mounting portion (10-30-M, 20-30-M) on the outer side in the width direction of the electric connector. It has, and another part has a first inner mounting portion (10-3I-M, 20-3I-M) on the inner side in the width direction of the electrical connector, and one or more first inspection windows (10-IW, 20-IW) that expose at least a part of the first inner mounting portion (10-3I-M, 20-3I-M) are formed in the mold portion, and the first inspection windows (10-IW, 20-IW) are formed by one surface of the first mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) and three surfaces of the second mold portion (10-5-2, 20-5-2), and there are two first mold portions (10-5-1, 20-5-1), and the second mold portion (10-5-2, 20-5-2) has two first An electrical connector having a mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) joined between them, wherein the first mold portion (10-5-1, 20-5-1) is formed by a first insert molding, and the second mold portion (10-5-2, 20-5-2) is joined to each of the first mold portions (10-5-1, 20-5-1) by a subsequent second insert molding. Claim 2 An electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein in the first signal terminal row (10-3, 20-3), a signal terminal having a first outer mounting portion (10-30-M, 20-30-M) and a signal terminal having a first inner mounting portion (10-3I-M, 20-3I-M) are alternately arranged one by one. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the first inspection window (10-IW, 20-IW) is a plurality of electrical connectors. Claim 4 An electrical connector according to paragraph 3, wherein one first inspection window (10-IW, 20-IW) is also installed for each of the first inner mounting portions (10-3I-M, 20-3I-M).

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