Connector

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to make it possible to ensure a normal connection state of a connector, and to make it possible to suppress any increase in workload for the purpose of ensuring the normal connection state. This connector is connected to a mating connector, the connector comprising a terminal, a housing that accommodates the terminal, a connection-ensuring member that is supported by the housing so as to be capable of moving between a non-locking position and a locking position, and a biasing portion that biases the connection-ensuring member toward the locking position. The connection-ensuring member includes a locking protrusion. The non-locking position is a position where the locking protrusion is in contact with the mating connector in the process of connecting, and where the locking protrusion retreats to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector. The locking position is a position where the locking protrusion is locked, in a manner preventing extraction, to the mating connector in the normal connection state.

Description

connector

[0001] The present disclosure relates to connectors.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an electrical connector having a housing, electrical contacts, and a connector position assurance member. The connector position assurance member is mounted on the housing so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position. In this electrical connector, the ability of the connector position assurance member to move to the closed position ensures that the electrical connector is fully inserted into a mating electrical connector.

[0003] Special Publication No. 2006-521673

[0004] According to the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the operation of moving the connector position assurance member to the closed position is required in addition to the operation of inserting the electrical connector, which may increase the number of steps required to ensure the connector position.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to ensure that the correct connection state of a connector can be guaranteed and to suppress an increase in the number of steps required for the guarantee.

[0006] The connector of the present disclosure is a connector that is connected to a mating connector, and comprises terminals, a housing that accommodates the terminals, a connection assurance member that is supported on the housing so as to be movable between a non-engaging position and a engaging position, and a biasing portion that biases the connection assurance member toward the engaging position, wherein the connection assurance member includes a locking protrusion, the non-engaging position is a position where the locking protrusion contacts the mating connector in the middle of connection and the locking protrusion retracts to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector, and the engaging position is a position where the locking protrusion engages with the mating connector in a properly connected state to prevent it from coming loose.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to guarantee the correct connection state of the connector and to suppress an increase in the number of steps required for the guarantee.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a connector and a mating connector according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the connector and the mating connector. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the connector 10. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a connection assurance member. FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a connector in the middle of connection. FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a connector that has been properly connected. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a connector according to a modified example.

[0009] [Description of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0010] The connectors of the present disclosure are as follows.

[0011] (1) A connector to be connected to a mating connector, comprising: terminals; a housing that accommodates the terminals; a connection assurance member supported by the housing so as to be movable between a non-engaging position and a engaging position; and a biasing portion that biases the connection assurance member toward the engaging position, wherein the connection assurance member includes a locking protrusion, the non-engaging position is a position where the locking protrusion comes into contact with the mating connector in the middle of connection and the locking protrusion retracts to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector, and the engaging position is a position where the locking protrusion engages with the mating connector in a properly connected state to prevent disconnection.

[0012] With this connector, the connector's connection status can be assured by visually, tactilely, or audibly sensing that the connection assurance member has shifted from the unlocked position to the locked position. Furthermore, when the mating connector is properly connected, the biasing member shifts the connection assurance member to the locked position. This eliminates the need for a separate operation to shift the connection assurance member from the connection operation, thereby minimizing the increase in the number of steps required for assurance.

[0013] (2) In the connector of (1), the connection assurance member may include a confirmation target portion, and the housing may include a window portion that exposes the confirmation target portion so that it can be seen from outside the housing.

[0014] In this case, the connection of the connector can be assured by visually checking the confirmation target portion from outside the connector.

[0015] (3) In the connector of (2), the confirmation target portion may have a color different from that of a portion of the housing surrounding the window portion.

[0016] This makes it easier to check the position of the part to be checked within the window.

[0017] (4) In the connector of (2) or (3), the confirmation target portion may protrude from the window portion when the connection assurance member is in the locking position.

[0018] In this way, the confirmation target portion, which does not protrude from the window portion in the non-locking position, protrudes from the window portion in the locking position, making it easy to confirm that the connection assurance member is in the non-locking position or the locked position.

[0019] (5) In any one of the connectors (2) to (4), the opening periphery of the window portion may be formed in a shape that prevents the confirmation target portion from being pushed in to a position that releases the locking state between the locking protrusion and the mating connector.

[0020] This prevents the confirmation target portion from being unintentionally pressed in and causing the connection assurance member to be displaced.

[0021] (6) In any one of the connectors (2) to (5), the connection assurance member may include a support shaft portion rotatably supported on the housing, a first extension portion extending from the support shaft portion, and a second extension portion extending from the support shaft portion in a direction different from the first extension portion, and the locking protrusion may be located on the first extension portion side, and the confirmation target portion may be located on the second extension portion side.

[0022] In this case, when the locking projection is pressed by the biasing portion and locks into the mating connector, the confirmation target portion moves toward the window portion, making it easy to check the state of the confirmation target portion using the window portion when the mating connector is properly connected.

[0023] (7) In the connector of (6), the locking protrusion may protrude from the first extension portion toward the inside of the housing, and the confirmation target portion may protrude from the second extension portion toward the window portion.

[0024] In this way, since the confirmation target portion protrudes from the second extending portion toward the window portion, it is easy to check the state of the confirmation target portion at the window portion.

[0025] (8) In the connector according to any one of (1) to (7), the connection assurance member and the biasing portion may be integrally formed parts made of the same material.

[0026] In this way, if the connection assurance member and the biasing portion are formed as a single, continuous part from the same material, the number of parts in the connector can be reduced.

[0027] (9) In the connector according to any one of (1) to (7), the biasing portion may be a coil spring.

[0028] By using a coil spring as the biasing portion, it is easy to set the biasing force of the connection assurance member to be large.

[0029] [Details of the embodiment of the present disclosure] Specific examples of the connector of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0030] [Embodiment] A connector according to an embodiment will be described below.

[0031] <Overall Configuration of the Connector> The overall configuration of the connector will be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the connector 10 and the mating connector 70. Fig. 2 is a side view showing the connector 10 and the mating connector 70. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a bottom view of the connector 10.

[0032] The connector 10 is a connector that is connected to a mating connector 70. The connector 10 includes terminals 12 and a housing 20.

[0033] The terminal 12 is formed by pressing a metal plate or the like. The terminal 12 is a terminal to be connected to the electric wire 8. The terminal 12 includes a terminal connection portion to be connected to a mating terminal. For example, the terminal connection portion is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the mating terminal is inserted into and connected to the terminal connection portion. The terminal connection portion may be formed in a rectangular plate shape or a pin shape, and may be inserted into and connected to the mating terminal. The terminal 12 is connected to the core portion of the electric wire 8 by crimping or the like. The terminal 12 may be connected to the core portion of the electric wire 8 by soldering, ultrasonic bonding, resistance welding, or the like.

[0034] In this embodiment, the connector 10 has two terminals 12. The number of terminals that the connector has is arbitrary, and may be one terminal or three or more terminals. The terminals may be signal terminals or power supply terminals.

[0035] The housing 20 is a resin component that accommodates the terminals 12. The housing 20 includes an inner housing portion 22 and an outer housing portion 30.

[0036] The inner housing portion 22 is formed in a cylindrical shape to accommodate the terminal 12. In this embodiment, two rectangular cylindrical inner housing portions 22 are arranged in parallel. The terminal 12 is accommodated in each inner housing portion 22 at a fixed position and in a fixed posture. The electric wire 8 extends from the base end opening of the inner housing portion 22.

[0037] The outer housing portion 30 includes a base end portion 32 and an outer surrounding portion 34. The base end portion 32 is formed in a flattened rectangular tube shape. A plurality of inner housing portions 22 are supported in a horizontally arranged state within the tip end portion of the base end portion 32. The electric wires 8 extending from the inner housing portions 22 pass through the base end portion 32 and extend to the outside.

[0038] A rubber stopper 26 may be interposed between the inner periphery of the base end of the base end portion 32 and the electric wire 8. A cover member 27 may be attached to the outside of the base end opening of the base end portion 32, and the cover member 27 may hold the rubber stopper 26 in place. In addition, a shield shell 28 may be disposed between the inner housing portion 22 and the outer housing portion 30.

[0039] An outer surrounding portion 34 is supported on the outer periphery of the base end portion 32. The outer surrounding portion 34 is formed in a cylindrical shape, more specifically, in a rectangular cylindrical shape with rounded corners. The outer surrounding portion 34 extends from the outer periphery of the base end portion 32 toward the tip side of the base end portion 32. The outer surrounding portion 34 extends beyond the tip of the terminal 12 and surrounds the terminal 12 via the inner housing portion 22.

[0040] A locking portion 33 is supported on a portion of the outer periphery of the base end portion 32. The locking portion 33 is formed in an elongated shape that is long along the direction of connection between the connector 10 and the mating connector 70. An intermediate portion of the locking portion 33 in the extending direction is supported via a swing support portion 35 so as to be swingable.

[0041] A lock receiving piece 33a extending in the width direction is formed at the tip end of the locking portion 33. An operating piece 33b that receives an operating force on the locking portion 33 is formed at the base end of the locking portion 33. When the locking portion 33 swings around the support point of the swing support portion 35, the lock receiving piece 33a can be displaced in a direction toward or away from the base end 32.

[0042] The operating piece 33b is exposed from the base end of the outer housing part 30. Here, a partial U-shaped opening is formed in the base end of the outer housing part 30, and the operating piece 33b is exposed to the outside within the recessed part. When the operating piece 33b is pressed in, the lock part 33 swings around the support point of the swing support part 35, and the lock receiving piece 33a can be displaced in a direction away from the base end 32.

[0043] A connection assurance member 40 is supported on another portion of the outer periphery of the base end portion 32. In this embodiment, the connection assurance member 40 is located on the opposite side of the locking portion 33. In other words, the locking portion 33 is located between the locking portion 33 and the connection assurance member 40. The connection assurance member 40 is a component for connector position assurance (CPA).

[0044] The mating connector 70 is a connector to be connected to the connector 10 and includes mating terminals 72 and a mating housing 80 .

[0045] The mating terminal 72 is a terminal to be connected to the terminal 12. In this embodiment, the mating terminal 72 has a terminal connection portion formed in a rectangular plate shape, and is inserted into and connected to the terminal 12. The electric wire 9 connected to the mating terminal 72 extends from the base end of the mating connector 70.

[0046] The mating housing 80 is a resin part that accommodates the mating terminals 72 .

[0047] The mating housing 80 includes a mating tubular portion 82 that is inserted into the outer enclosure 34. A terminal holding housing 85 is supported within the mating tubular portion 82, and the mating terminals 72 are supported within the terminal holding housing 85. In this embodiment, the mating connector 70 includes two mating terminals 72, the number of which corresponds to the number of terminals 12. The mating tubular portion 82 surrounds the mating terminals 72 with a gap therebetween.

[0048] When the connector 10 and the mating connector 70 are connected, the mating tubular portion 82 is inserted into the outer enclosure 34. When the connector 10 and the mating connector 70 are properly connected, the mating terminals 72 are inserted into and connected to the terminals 12 within the outer enclosure 34.

[0049] In the above-described normal connection state, the tip end of the mating tube portion 82 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the tip end of the base end portion 32. In other words, in the normal connection state between the connector 10 and the mating connector 70, the tip end of the mating tube portion 82 is inserted between the base end portion 32 and the outer enclosure portion 34.

[0050] An annular packing 32P may be fitted onto the tip of the base end 32, and the annular packing 32P may be interposed in a compressed state between the base end 32 and the outer enclosure 34. This makes it difficult for liquids to enter the space surrounded by the base end 32 and the outer enclosure 34, making the connection between the mating terminal 72 and the terminal 12 waterproof.

[0051] A shield shell 83 may be provided inside the mating tube portion 82. When the connector 10 and the mating connector 70 are connected, the shield shell 28 and the shield shell 83 are connected to each other, and the connection portion between the terminal 12 and the mating terminal 72 is preferably electromagnetically shielded by the shield shells 28 and 83.

[0052] A locking protrusion 84 that can be engaged with the locking receiving piece 33a protrudes from a portion of the outer periphery of the mating tubular portion 82. The locking protrusion 84 has an inclined surface 84a that gradually increases in length toward the tip end of the mating tubular portion 82. The surface of the locking protrusion 84 that faces the base end of the mating tubular portion 82 is formed as a locking surface 84b that is nearly perpendicular to the connection direction of the connectors 10, 70.

[0053] When the mating tubular portion 82 is inserted into the outer enclosure 34, the locking receiving piece 33a at the tip end of the locking portion 33 comes into contact with the inclined surface 84a, and the locking receiving piece 33a is displaced in a direction away from the base end 32. When the mating tubular portion 82 is further inserted into the outer enclosure 34, the locking receiving piece 33a clears the inclined surface 84a, causing the locking portion 33 to elastically return to its original position. As a result, the locking receiving piece 33a is positioned opposite the locking surface 84b, and the locking protrusion 84 engages with the locking receiving piece 33a, preventing the connector 10 from being separated from the mating connector 70.

[0054] When the operating piece 33b is pressed in, the lock receiving piece 33a is displaced in a direction away from the base end portion 32, and the lock protrusion 84 can be removed from below the lock receiving piece 33a. This allows the connector 10 to be detached from the mating connector 70.

[0055] Furthermore, a mating locking portion 86 capable of locking the connection assurance member 40 is formed on another portion of the outer periphery of the mating tubular portion 82. The mating locking portion 86 is formed in a position facing the locking protrusion 44 of the connection assurance member 40 when the connectors 10, 70 are properly connected. The mating locking portion 86 is formed in a position not facing the locking protrusion 44 of the connection assurance member 40 when the connectors 10, 70 are in an intermediate connection state before being properly connected.

[0056] In this embodiment, the mating locking portion 86 is a recess that is partially recessed in the outer peripheral surface of the mating tubular portion 82. The recess may be a bottomed recess or a through hole. If the mating locking portion 86 is a bottomed recess, it is easier to maintain a watertight state inside the mating tubular portion 82. In this embodiment, the mating locking portion 86 is formed on the opposite side of the locking portion 33 of the mating tubular portion 82.

[0057] <Connection Assurance Member> The connector 10 includes a connection assurance member 40 for assuring a normal connection state to the mating connector 70. A more specific description will be given below, focusing on the connection assurance member 40. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the connection assurance member 40.

[0058] 3 to 5, the connection assurance member 40 is supported by the housing 20 so as to be movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The connection assurance member 40 is biased toward the locked position by a biasing portion 50.

[0059] The connection assurance member 40 includes a locking protrusion 44 .

[0060] When the mating connector 70 is in the mid-connection state, not yet properly connected to the connector 10, the locking protrusion 44 comes into contact with the mating connector 70 (see FIG. 6 ). This causes the locking protrusion 44 to retreat to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector 70. The position of the connection assurance member 40 in which the locking protrusion 44 is disengaged to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector 70 is the non-locking position.

[0061] When the mating connector 70 is properly connected to the connector 10, the locking projection 44 is displaced by the biasing portion 50 toward the mating locking portion 86 and locks into the mating locking portion 86 (see FIG. 7 ). The locking projection 44 locks into the mating locking portion 86, making it difficult for the mating connector 70 to come out of the connector 10. In this way, the position of the connection assurance member 40 where the locking projection 44 is locked into the mating locking portion 86 of the mating connector 70 in the properly connected state is the locking position.

[0062] When the mating connector 70 is properly connected to the connector 10, the biasing force of the biasing portion 50 moves the connection assurance member 40 to the locked position. Therefore, the locking protrusion 44 automatically locks into the mating locking portion 86 without the need to operate the connection assurance member 40. By detecting the automatic movement of the connection assurance member 40, the connection between the mating connector 70 and the connector 10 can be assured. The movement of the connection assurance member 40 may be detected visually, tactilely, or audibly by the operator, or based on the output of various sensors.

[0063] More specifically, the connection assurance member 40 is a component made of resin, etc. The connection assurance member 40 includes a support shaft portion 41, a first extending portion 42, a second extending portion 43, and a locking protrusion 44.

[0064] The support shaft 41 is a portion rotatably supported by the housing 20. Specifically, the support shaft 41 includes support shaft protrusions 41P that protrude from both sides. The support shaft protrusions 41P are, for example, cylindrical portions.

[0065] The first extending portion 42 is a long, narrow portion extending from the support shaft portion 41. A locking protrusion 44 is located on the first extending portion 42 side and protrudes from the first extending portion 42 toward the inside of the housing 20. In this embodiment, the locking protrusion 44 is located at the tip of the first extending portion 42. The locking protrusion 44 includes an inclined surface 44a that gradually reduces the protruding dimension toward the tip side of the first extending portion 42. A portion of the locking protrusion 44 on the base end side of the first extending portion 42 is formed as a locking surface 44b that is perpendicular to the first extending portion 42. The inclined surface of the locking protrusion 44 comes into contact with the mating side tubular portion 82, making it easy for the locking protrusion 44 to move toward the outer periphery of the mating side tubular portion 82. When the locking projection 44 is fitted into the mating locking portion 86 , the locking surface of the locking projection 44 comes into contact with the side surface of the mating locking portion 86 , making it difficult for the locking projection 44 to come off the mating locking portion 86 .

[0066] The second extending portion 43 extends from the support shaft portion 41 in a direction different from that of the first extending portion 42. In this embodiment, the second extending portion 43 extends on the opposite side from the first extending portion 42. In other words, the first extending portion 42, the support shaft portion 41, and the second extending portion 43 form an elongated shape that is linearly connected in this order.

[0067] The first extending portion 42 and the second extending portion 43 do not need to be connected in a straight line, and may be curved midway.

[0068] The connection assurance member 40 further includes a confirmation target portion 45. The confirmation target portion 45 is a portion for confirming whether the connection assurance member 40 is positioned in the locked position. In this embodiment, the confirmation target portion 45 is located on the second extending portion 43 side. In other words, the support shaft portion 41 is located between the locking protrusion 44 and the confirmation target portion 45, and the locking protrusion 44 and the confirmation target portion 45 can move toward and away from each other in opposite directions relative to the mating tube portion 82. In this embodiment, the confirmation target portion 45 is located at the tip of the second extending portion 43. It is preferable that the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes on the opposite side from the locking protrusion 44.

[0069] The configuration of the housing 20 supporting the connection assurance member 40 will be described. A recessed groove 37 extending along the connection direction of the connectors 10, 70 is formed in a portion of the inner periphery of the outer enclosing portion 34 of the housing 20. The recessed groove 37 is a bottomed groove that opens toward the inner periphery of the outer enclosing portion 34. For example, the recessed groove 37 extends from the connection point between the base end of the outer enclosing portion 34 and the base end portion 32 to approximately the axial center of the outer enclosing portion 34. The first extending portion 42, the support shaft portion 41, and the second extending portion 43 can be disposed within the recessed groove 37. In this arrangement, the first extending portion 42 is positioned closer to the tip of the outer enclosing portion 34 than the second extending portion 43. Therefore, the locking protrusion 44 is disposed within the recessed groove 37 at a position closer to the tip of the outer enclosing portion 34.

[0070] Receiving recesses 37r into which the support shaft protrusions 41P are fitted are formed on both side surfaces of the longitudinal middle portion of the recessed groove 37 (see FIG. 6). By fitting the support shaft protrusions 41P into the receiving recesses 37r, the connection assurance member 40 is supported so as to be swingable around the support shafts 41P.

[0071] A window 34w is formed in the recessed groove 37 at a position near the base end of the outer enclosure 34. The second extending portion 43 extends to a position inside the window 34w. The confirmation target 45 protruding from the second extending portion 43 faces the window 34w. This exposes the confirmation target 45 so that it can be seen from outside the housing 20 through the window 34w.

[0072] In the locked position, the locking protrusion 44 protrudes from the recessed groove 37 toward the inside of the outer enclosing portion 34 (see FIG. 7). For example, the top of the locking protrusion 44 protrudes further inward than both outer portions of the recessed groove 37 on the inner circumferential surface of the outer enclosing portion 34. In the unlocked position, the locking protrusion 44 is housed within the recessed groove 37 (see FIG. 6). For example, the top of the locking protrusion 44 is in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the mating tubular portion 82 or is located outside that outer circumferential surface, with most of the locking protrusion 44 housed within the recessed groove 37.

[0073] When the mating tube portion 82 is inserted into the outer enclosing portion 34, the locking protrusion 44 comes into contact with the mating tube portion 82 and is pushed outward from the mating tube portion 82. This moves the connection assurance member 40 to the unlocked position. Furthermore, when the mating tube portion 82 is further inserted into the outer enclosing portion 34, the concave mating locking portion 86 is positioned at a position corresponding to the locking protrusion 44. This allows the locking protrusion 44 to enter the mating locking portion 86, allowing the connection assurance member 40 to move to the locked position.

[0074] When the connection assurance member 40 is in the unlocked position, the first extending portion 42, the support shaft 41, and the second extending portion 43 are all tilted relative to the recessed groove 37. Because the connection assurance member 40 swings around the support shaft 41, when the locking projection 44 is displaced toward the outer periphery of the outer enclosure 34, the confirmation target portion 45 is displaced toward the side retracting from the opening of the window 34w.

[0075] When the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position, the first extending portion 42, the support shaft 41, and the second extending portion 43 are aligned with the recessed groove 37. In this state, the support shaft 41 and the second extending portion 43 are aligned with the connection direction of the connectors 10, 70.

[0076] As described above, the connection assurance member 40 swings around the support shaft 41, so when the locking projection 44 is displaced toward the outer enclosure 34, the confirmation target 45 is displaced toward the window 34w. By confirming that the confirmation target 45 has been displaced toward the window 34w, it can be confirmed that the connection assurance member 40 is in the locking position, that is, that the locking projection 44 is locked with the mating locking portion 86.

[0077] The biasing portion 50 biases the connection assurance member 40 toward the locked position. In this embodiment, the connection assurance member 40 and the biasing portion 50 are integrally formed from the same material. For example, the connection assurance member 40 and the biasing portion 50 may be integrally formed from the same resin using a mold.

[0078] The biasing portion 50 extends, for example, from the middle of the long portion where the first extending portion 42, the support shaft portion 41, and the second extending portion 43 are integrally connected toward the tip side of the first extending portion 42 on the side opposite the locking protrusion 44. The distance between the first extending portion 42 and the biasing portion 50 is set to gradually increase toward the tip side of the first extending portion 42. In other words, the biasing portion 50 is formed in the shape of a leaf spring that extends in a direction inclined relative to the first extending portion 42 on the side opposite the locking protrusion 44.

[0079] With the support shaft 41 supported in the receiving recess 37r of the groove 37, the biasing portion 50 can come into contact with the bottom of the groove 37. With the connection assurance member 40 in the unlocked position, the biasing portion 50 is elastically deformed between the bottom of the groove 37 and the first extending portion 42 so as to be displaced toward the first extending portion 42. The elastic force of the biasing portion 50 as it tries to return to its original shape biases the connection assurance member 40 toward the locked position.

[0080] The confirmation that the connection assurance member 40 has been displaced to the unlocked position can be confirmed visually, tactilely, audibly, or the like.

[0081] For example, the position of the confirmation target portion 45 within the window portion 34w may be visually confirmed. In this case, the confirmation target portion 45 may have a color different from that of the portion of the housing 20 surrounding the window portion 34w. This makes the confirmation target portion 45 more noticeable within the window portion 34w, making it easier to visually confirm the position of the confirmation target portion 45.

[0082] For example, the entire housing 20 or the area surrounding the window 34w may be white or a white-ish gray, and the outward surface of the confirmation target 45 may be black or a black-ish gray. Alternatively, the entire housing 20 or the area surrounding the window 34w may be black or a black-ish gray, and the outward surface of the confirmation target 45 may be white or a white-ish gray. The entire housing 20 or the area surrounding the window 34w may be an achromatic color such as black, white, or gray, and the outward surface of the confirmation target 45 may be a chromatic color such as red.

[0083] The position of the confirmation target portion 45 does not have to be confirmed by an operator, but may be confirmed by an image sensor or the like, for example.

[0084] The confirmation target portion 45 may protrude from the window portion 34w when the connection assurance member 40 is in the unlocked position or the locked position. For example, in the unlocked position, the locking protrusion 44 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the mating tubular portion 82, displacing the first extension portion 42 toward the bottom of the recessed groove 37. In this state, the confirmation target portion 45 displaces toward the inner periphery of the outer enclosure portion 34, and is positioned inside the outer opening periphery of the window portion 34w (see FIG. 6). When the two connectors 10, 70 are properly connected, the locking protrusion 44 enters the mating locking portion 86, and the connection assurance member 40 moves to the locked position. This displaces the confirmation target portion 45 away from the outer enclosure portion 34. The top of the confirmation target portion 45 then protrudes outward from the outer opening periphery of the window portion 34w (see FIG. 7).

[0085] In this case, the top of the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes outward from the outer opening periphery of the window portion 34w, making it easy to visually confirm the position of the confirmation target portion 45.

[0086] By checking whether the top of the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes outward from the outer opening of the window portion 34w, it can be confirmed whether the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position. For example, by touching with a finger or the like, it can be confirmed whether the top of the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes from the periphery of the outer opening of the window portion 34w. Also, by detecting the position of the confirmation target portion 45 with an optical sensor or the like, it can be confirmed whether the top of the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes from the periphery of the outer opening of the window portion 34w.

[0087] When the confirmation target 45 is exposed to the outside through the window 34w, the outer opening periphery of the window 34w may be formed in a shape that prevents the confirmation target 45 from being pushed in until it reaches a position where the retaining state is released. The position where the retaining state is released is the position where the retaining projection 44 comes out of the recessed mating retaining portion 86 of the mating connector 70, i.e., the unlocked position.

[0088] For example, the outer periphery of the opening of the window 34w may be set to a size that prevents a little finger from getting stuck in it. For example, the outer periphery of the opening of the window 34w may be set to a size such that the maximum diameter is in the range of 3 mm to 6 mm. More specifically, the outer periphery of the opening of the window 34w may be a circle with a diameter of 3 mm to 6 mm or a rectangle with a maximum side length of 3 mm to 6 mm.

[0089] <Regarding Operation> The operation of the connector 10 will be described.

[0090] In the initial state, the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position as shown in Fig. 3. For example, in the initial natural state, the biasing portion 50 is interposed between the first extending portion 42 and the bottom of the recessed groove 37, and the locking protrusion 44 protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the outer enclosure portion 34.

[0091] When the mating tubular portion 82 of the mating connector 70 is inserted into the outer enclosure 34, as shown in Figure 6, the outer peripheral surface of the mating tubular portion 82 comes into contact with the locking protrusion 44. As a result, the locking protrusion 44 is pushed into the recessed groove 37 against the biasing force of the biasing portion 50, and the connection assurance member 40 is displaced from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0092] While the top of the locking projection 44 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the mating tubular portion 82, the mating locking portion 86 is pushed further inward.

[0093] When the mating connector 70 is connected to the connector 10 until the mating terminals 72 and 12 are connected, the connector 10 is in a properly connected state. In the properly connected state, the locking portion 33 is locked to the locking protrusion 84. Also, in the properly connected state, the mating locking portion 86 of the mating tubular portion 82 is positioned opposite the locking protrusion 44. Then, due to the biasing force of the biasing portion 50, the locking protrusion 44 is displaced so as to enter the recessed mating locking portion 86, and the connection assurance member 40 moves to the locked position. The confirmation target portion 45 moves to the opposite side from the locking protrusion 44, and the confirmation target portion 45 is displaced toward the window portion 34w.

[0094] By checking the position of the confirmation target portion 45 in the window portion 34w, it can be confirmed whether the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position. This confirmation can be made by visually or tactilely checking the position of the confirmation target portion 45 in the window portion 34w, as described above. When the connection assurance member 40 moves forcefully from the unlocked position to the locked position due to the biasing force of the biasing portion 50, any part of the connection assurance member 40 may come into contact with the housing 20 or the mating housing 80, generating a contact sound. Whether or not the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position may be confirmed audibly by checking whether or not the contact sound is heard.

[0095] The visual, tactile or auditory confirmation may be performed by the operator's senses or by using a sensor.

[0096] Even if it appears at first glance that the mating connector 70 is connected to the connector 10, if the insertion depth is insufficient, the mating locking portion 86 of the mating tubular portion 82 will remain in a position before the locking protrusion 44. As a result, the locking protrusion 44 will remain in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the mating tubular portion 82, and the connection assurance member 40 will be maintained in the unlocked position. If the above confirmation procedure does not confirm that the connection assurance member 40 is in the locked position, it can be recognized that the connectors 10, 70 are not properly connected.

[0097] This makes it possible to ensure the connection of the connectors 10 and 70.

[0098] <Effects, etc.> With the connector 10 configured as described above, the proper connection state of the connector 10 can be assured by visually, tactilely, audibly, or otherwise sensing the displacement of the connection assurance member 40 from the unlocked position to the locked position. Furthermore, when the mating connector 70 is properly connected, the biasing portion 50 displaces the connection assurance member 40 to the locked position, and the locking protrusion 44 locks with the mating locking portion 86. This eliminates the need for a separate operation to displace the connection assurance member 40, separate from the operation of inserting the mating connector 70 into the connector 10, thereby minimizing the increase in man-hours required for assurance. Furthermore, the connection state of the connectors 10, 70 is maintained by the engagement between the locking protrusion 84 and the lock receiving piece 33a and the engagement between the locking protrusion 44 and the mating locking portion 86. This more reliably maintains the connection state of the connectors 10, 70.

[0099] Furthermore, as described above, the operation of displacing the connection assurance member 40 is omitted, and connection assurance is achieved by double locking of the connectors 10, 70, making this suitable for automatic connection operations using a robot or the like.

[0100] Furthermore, since the connection assurance member 40 includes a confirmation target portion 45 that is exposed to the outside of the connector 10, the connection of the connector can be assured by visually confirming the confirmation target portion 45 from outside the connector 10.

[0101] Furthermore, if the confirmation target portion 45 has a color different from that of the portion of the housing 20 surrounding the window portion 34w, it is easy to confirm the position of the confirmation target portion 45 within the window portion 34w.

[0102] Furthermore, the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes from the window portion 34w when the connection assurance member 40 is in the unlocked position or the locked position. Therefore, by having the confirmation target portion 45 protrude from the window portion 34w, it is easy to confirm that the connection assurance member 40 is in the unlocked position or the locked position.

[0103] Furthermore, if the opening periphery of the window portion 34w is formed in a shape that prevents the confirmation target portion 45 from being pushed in to a position that releases the anti-pullout locking state, the locking protrusion 44 is prevented from being unintentionally released from the mating connector 70.

[0104] Furthermore, the connection assurance member 40 includes a support shaft 41, a first extending portion 42 extending from the support shaft 41, and a second extending portion 43 extending from the support shaft in a different direction from the first extending portion, with the locking projection 44 located on the first extending portion 42 side and the confirmation target portion 45 located on the second extending portion 43 side. Therefore, when the locking projection 44 is pressed by the biasing portion 50 and locks into the mating connector 70 to prevent disconnection, the confirmation target portion 45 moves toward the window portion 34w. Therefore, when the mating connector 70 is properly connected, the confirmation target portion 45 moves outward, making it easy to check the state of the confirmation target portion 45 using the window portion 34w.

[0105] Furthermore, since the confirmation target portion 45 protrudes from the second extending portion 43 on the side opposite to the locking protrusion 44 and toward the window portion 34w, it is easy to check the state of the confirmation target portion 45 in the window portion 34w.

[0106] Furthermore, by adjusting the length of the first extension portion 42, the length of the second extension portion 43, etc., it is easy to arbitrarily adjust the amount of displacement of the confirmation target portion 45 relative to the amount of movement required for the locking protrusion 44 to engage and disengage with the mating connector 70.

[0107] Furthermore, if the connection assurance member 40 and the biasing portion 50 are formed as a single, continuous part from the same material, the number of parts in the connector 10 can be reduced.

[0108] It is not essential that the biasing portion 50 be a component that is integrally formed continuously with the connection assurance member 40 using the same material.

[0109] 8 , the biasing portion 150 may be a coil spring separate from the connection assurance member 40. For example, a partially recessed set recess 37g may be formed in a portion of the groove 37 near the tip of the outer surrounding portion 34. With one end of the biasing portion 150 positioned on the set recess 37g, the biasing portion 150 may be disposed between the bottom of the set recess 37g and the tip of the first extending portion 42.

[0110] In this case, using a coil spring as the biasing portion 150 makes it easy to adjust the biasing force of the connection assurance member 40. For example, the biasing force of the connection assurance member 40 can be set to be large by increasing the wire diameter of the coil spring or using a spring wire with high spring properties.

[0111] The configurations described in the above embodiment and modifications can be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent.

[0112] 8, 9 Electric wire 10 Connector 12 Terminal 20 Housing 22 Inner housing portion 26 Rubber stopper 27 Cover member 28, 83 Shield shell 30 Outer housing portion 32 Base end portion 32P Annular packing 33 Lock portion 33a Lock receiving piece 33b Operation piece 34 Outer enclosure portion 34w Window portion 35 Swing support portion 37 Groove 37g Setting recess 37r Receiving recess 40 Connection assurance member 41 Support shaft portion 41P Support shaft protrusion 42 First extending portion 43 Second extending portion 44 Locking protrusion 44a Inclined surface 44b Locking surface 45 Confirmation target portion 50; 150 Urging portion 70 Mating connector 72 Mating terminal 80 Mating housing 82 Mating cylindrical portion 84 Locking protrusion 84a Inclined surface 84b Locking surface 85 Terminal holding housing 86 Mating locking portion

Claims

1. A connector for connection to a mating connector, comprising: terminals; a housing for accommodating the terminals; a connection assurance member supported by the housing so as to be movable between a non-locking position and a locked position; and a biasing portion for biasing the connection assurance member toward the locked position, wherein the connection assurance member includes a locking protrusion, wherein the non-locking position is a position where the locking protrusion comes into contact with the mating connector in the middle of connection and retreats to the outside of the connection path of the mating connector, and the locked position is a position where the locking protrusion engages with the mating connector in a properly connected state to prevent it from coming loose.

2. A connector according to claim 1, wherein the connection assurance member includes a confirmation target portion, and the housing includes a window portion that exposes the confirmation target portion so that it can be viewed from outside the housing.

3. A connector as claimed in claim 2, wherein the confirmation target portion is of a different colour from a portion of the housing surrounding the window portion.

4. A connector as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein the confirmation target portion protrudes from the window portion when the connection assurance member is in the locking position.

5. A connector as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the opening edge of the window portion is formed in a shape that prevents the part to be confirmed from being pushed in to a position that releases the retaining state between the retaining protrusion and the mating connector.

6. A connector as described in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the connection assurance member includes a support shaft portion rotatably supported on the housing, a first extension portion extending from the support shaft portion, and a second extension portion extending from the support shaft portion in a direction different from that of the first extension portion, and the locking protrusion is located on the first extension portion side, and the confirmation target portion is located on the second extension portion side.

7. A connector as claimed in claim 6, wherein the locking projection protrudes from the first extension portion towards the inside of the housing, and the confirmation target portion protrudes from the second extension portion towards the window portion.

8. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connection assurance member and the biasing portion are integrally formed as a continuous part from the same material.

9. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the biasing portion is a coil spring.

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