Automation-compatible connector connection / disconnection

Abstract

The present invention improves issues with the automation of connection work in an assembly process in which the control of a lever operation for a connector comprising a conventional lever mechanism is complex. By creating a configuration with which it is possible to eliminate a lever mechanism, simplify connection and disconnection operations for a connector, and perform connections and disconnections using a general-purpose tool or general-purpose components, it is possible to automate connection and disconnection work using an automation machine or movement assistance device. This configuration makes it possible to improve connection reliability and efficiency of connection work in an assembly process.

Description

Automation compatible mating / disconnection connector

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector that does not have a power-boosting mechanism, thereby facilitating automation of connector mating operations, particularly during assembly processes, and that enables mating and unmating using general-purpose tools and general-purpose parts based on the principle of leverage.

[0002] Conventionally, multi-pole connectors have employed a force-boosting mechanism to reduce the high insertion force required during mating (see Patent Document 1). This mechanism is designed to complete mating through multiple steps, such as temporarily setting the connectors and operating a lever.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a structure in which fitting and unfitting operations are performed using a rod-shaped member. This structure does not require a dedicated tool, and is therefore said to improve workability in the assembly process.

[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a configuration in which the lock arm is released from engagement with a special jig, and then the tapered surface of the jig is slid over a protrusion, thereby enabling separation.

[0005] Patent Document 4 discloses a structure in which engagement and disengagement are performed using general-purpose parts (bolts and nuts). This structure does not require dedicated parts, and is highly convenient in that parts are easily available and are versatile.

[0006] JP 2002-359028 WO 2012 / 086691 JP 2003-317866 JP 9-245884 JP 10-125394

[0007] Conventional connectors with a boosting mechanism have complicated mating and unmating operations and are not suitable for automation, and their structures using rod-shaped members and general-purpose parts reduce assembly efficiency and burden workers. Furthermore, design freedom is limited by factors such as securing a pressing part, restrictions on the number of terminals that can be accommodated, and increased costs due to waterproofing.

[0008] In order to solve these problems, the present invention aims to simplify the mating and disengaging operations by eliminating the boosting mechanism and making it possible to use a lever operation, thereby facilitating the automation of the mating and disengaging work of connectors.

[0009] As a means for solving the problem based on claim 1, the tip of the mating housing accommodating portion of one connector is used as a fulcrum during the removal operation, and a removal portion is formed on the side of the other connector that protrudes when removal begins, and used as the point of action, and removal is performed using the principle of leverage with a general-purpose tool.

[0010] As a means for solving the problems based on claim 2, an opening is formed in the side of the other connector that protrudes from the mating housing accommodating portion of one connector when separation begins, allowing a tool to be inserted. Furthermore, a tool support portion is provided at the tip of the mating housing accommodating portion of one connector, allowing the following to be performed by operating a tool: (1) When separating, separation occurs based on the principle of leverage, with the tool support portion as the fulcrum and the wall surface of the opening as the point of application. (2) When mating, mating occurs based on the principle of leverage, with the tool support portion as the fulcrum and the wall surface of the opening as the point of application.

[0011] As a means for solving the problems based on claim 3, an opening is provided in the side wall of the mating housing accommodation section of one connector, and a support section for mating and disengagement that serves as a fulcrum is formed, allowing a tool to be inserted through. Furthermore, a mating section and a disengagement section that serve as a point of application are formed in the other connector, allowing the following to be performed by operating a tool: (1) When disengaging, disengagement is performed using the principle of leverage, with the support section for disengagement as the fulcrum and the disengagement section as the point of application. (2) When mating, mating is performed using the principle of leverage, with the support section for mating as the fulcrum and the mating section as the point of application.

[0012] As a solution to the problem based on claim 4, in addition to the configuration of claim 3, at least one of the following can be achieved by fastening even in locations where tool manipulation is difficult: (1) A through hole is formed in the detachment portion, and during detachment, a nut is abutted against the detachment portion to assemble it, and a bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened onto the nut, so that the tip of the bolt abuts against the detachment support portion, and the nut presses against the detachment portion to detach it; (2) A through hole is formed in the detachment support portion, and during detachment, a nut is abutted against the support portion to assemble it, and a bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened onto the nut, so that the tip of the bolt abuts against the detachment portion, and the bolt presses against the detachment portion to detach it; (3) One of the connectors has a support portion that supports a fastening component at a position opposite the mating portion, and a hole is formed through both of them; during mating, a nut is abutted against the support portion to assemble it, and a bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened onto the nut, so that the bolt head abuts against the mating portion, and the bolt presses against the mating portion to mate. (4) When engaging, the nut is abutted against the engaging portion and assembled, and the bolt is inserted through the through hole formed in the support portion and tightened to the nut, so that the bolt head abuts against the support portion and the nut presses against the engaging portion to engage.

[0013] As a means for solving the problem based on claim 5, in addition to the configuration of either claim 1 or claim 3, an opening is formed near the locking portion of the locking mechanism of the other connector, and a tool is brought into contact with the opening and pressed against the area near the locking portion to release the lock, and then the connector is released using the principle of leverage.

[0014] The solution to the problem based on claim 6 is at least one of the following, which enables operation using a fastening part even in locations where it is difficult to assemble a removal nut during removal. (1) A removal support part is formed on the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodation part, and a removal part and a through hole facing the support part are formed in the other connector, and the nut is assembled by abutting against the removal part. During removal, a bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened against the nut, so that the tip of the bolt abuts against the support part, and the nut presses against the removal part to remove the connector. (2) A through hole is formed in the removal support part, and the nut is assembled by abutting against the support part, and the bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened against the nut during removal, so that the tip of the bolt abuts against the removal part, and the bolt presses against the removal part to remove the connector. (3) A mating support part is formed in a position facing the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodation part, and the other connector has a mating part formed in a position facing the support part, and a hole is formed through the support part and the mating part, and when mating, a nut is abutted against the support part to assemble, and a bolt is inserted through the through hole and tightened onto the nut, so that the bolt head abuts against the mating part and the bolt presses against the mating part to engage. (4) When mating, a nut is abutted against the mating part to assemble, and a bolt is inserted through the through hole of the mating support part to tighten onto the nut, so that the bolt head abuts against the support part and the nut presses against the mating part to engage.

[0015] As a means for solving the problem based on claim 7, in the connector described in any one of claims 1 to 6, by providing an operating part at the rear end of the connector that can handle mating and disengagement, stable mating and disengagement operations can be achieved by an automatic machine.

[0016] Eliminating the boosting mechanism simplifies the structure, facilitating mating and disengagement operations and enabling automation of mating and disengagement work in the assembly process. Furthermore, because release, mating, and disengagement can be performed using general-purpose tools and parts, process flexibility is ensured. These are expected to have benefits such as improved workability, connection reliability, and design freedom.

[0017] Furthermore, the nested structure of the conventional power-boosting mechanism part solves the problem of hindering the bulk removal of wire harnesses using heavy machinery (Nipla), making it easier to separate connectors when dismantling a vehicle. This is expected to improve dismantling efficiency and contribute to easier dismantling designs.

[0018] In addition, the elimination of the power-boosting mechanism parts reduces the use of different materials and makes it easier to separate parts after dismantling. This is expected to improve recyclability and horizontal recycling rates, and is socially significant in terms of resource circulation and reducing environmental impact.

[0019] Explanatory diagrams of claim 1 of the present invention. (a) Structure, (b) start of removal, (c) cross section of same. Explanatory cross section of same. (a) start of removal, (b) completion of removal, (c) modified embodiment. Explanatory diagrams of claim 2 of the present invention. (a) Structure, (b) start of mating, (c) completion of tool setting, (d) completion of mating. Explanatory diagrams of same. (a) start of removal, (b) cross section of same, (c) cross section of completed removal. Explanatory diagrams of claim 3 of the present invention. (a) perspective view of mating using a tool, (b) components (top view), (c) (bottom view). Cross section of same. (a) start of removal, (b) completion of removal. Cross section of same. (a) start of mating, (b) completion of mating. Explanatory perspective views of same. (a) removal using a tool, (b) mating using a tool with mating cover, (c) without cover. Explanatory perspective views of application example 2 of same. (a) removal operation, (b) components. Explanatory perspective view of claim 4 of the present invention. (a) Applicable general-purpose part, (b) component. Cross-sectional view of the same. (a) Preparation for removal, (b) start of removal, (c) completion of removal. Cross-sectional view of the same. (a) Preparation for mating, (b) start of mating, (c) completion of mating. Explanatory perspective view of Application Example 2 of the same. (a) Completed removal state, (b) cross-sectional view of the same. Explanatory perspective view of Application Example 3 of the same. (a) component, (b) applicable general-purpose part, (c) completion of mating, (d) start of mating. Explanatory diagram of Claim 5 of the present invention. (a) Structure, (b) start of removal state, (c) cross-sectional view of the same. Cross-sectional view of the same. (a) Start of removal, (b) completion of removal using a tool, (c) start of connector extraction. Explanatory diagram of Application Example 2 of the same. (a) Structure, (b) preparation for removal, (c) cross-sectional view of the same. Cross-sectional view of the same. (a) Start of removal, (b) completion of removal using a tool, (c) start of connector extraction. Explanatory cross-sectional view of the same. (a) Start of mating, (b) Completion of movement to mating position, (c) Restoration of locking mechanism. Explanatory diagram of claim 6 of the present invention. (a) Start of temporary setting, (b) Start of actual locking, (c) Completion of assembly. Explanatory perspective view of claim 7 of the present invention. (a) Start of temporary setting, (b) Start of actual locking. Explanatory perspective view of claim 1 of the present invention (for abstract).

[0020] This example is one embodiment corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 1, and removal using a general-purpose tool is explained based on Figures 1 and 2. Note that the state of assembly of the terminal connected to the wire into the housing, the wire protection cover, and other items not covered in this explanation are omitted from the figures.

[0021] In a pair of connectors equipped with terminal protection structures 10h, 20h, tip 10c of mating housing accommodating portion 10h of connector 10 serves as removal support portion 13, and connector 20 has a removal portion 23 facing support portion 13 on protruding portion side surface 20a, and using tool 60, removal force F3 is reduced to operating force F1 according to the principle of leverage with support portion 13 as the fulcrum and removal portion 23 as the point of application.

[0022] Figure 2a shows the start of removal. The required leverage is secured by inserting the tip 61 of the flathead screwdriver into the stopper 23c of the removal part 23, preventing the tool from coming off. The tool used can be a hex wrench or needle-nose pliers, and the shape and dimensions of the removal part 23 are designed according to the selected tool. Furthermore, if necessary, a notch can be provided at the tip of the mating housing's receiving part to ensure space for the tool.

[0023] Figure 2b shows the disconnected state. When tool 60 is operated in the direction of arrow b, tip 61a presses against disconnection part 23, using support part 13 as a fulcrum, and the connector is disconnected using the principle of leverage. This releases the displacement of female terminal contact part 41b by male terminal 30, releasing the contact and allowing the connector to be manually pulled out in the direction of arrow c.

[0024] Figure 2c shows a modified embodiment. End 55a of wire protection cover 50, a component of connector 20, is used as the release part, tool tip surface 61b abuts against support part 13 to serve as the fulcrum, and tool tip 61d abuts against release part 55a to serve as the point of application, thereby separating using the principle of leverage. Also, if no wire protection cover is used, a convex part can be formed on side surface 20a of housing 20h and used as the release part.

[0025] The separation support part 13 is subjected to the total load of the force point load F1 (F1 = F3 x L2 / L1) applied by the operator to the tool and the separation load F3 of the connector to be separated. The strength of support part 13 is set based on the design load [(F1 + F3) x S], which is this total load multiplied by a safety factor S depending on the usage situation. Note that the safety factor S is set taking into account the usage environment, material properties, whether or not repeated loads will occur, etc., and is applied based on general design guidelines. Furthermore, L1 is the distance from the operating part (force point) of the general-purpose tool to support part 13. Furthermore, the strength of separation part 23 is set based on the design load, which is the separation load F3 multiplied by the safety factor S.

[0026] According to this example, by eliminating the power-boosting mechanism, the mating and uncoupling operations are simplified, making it possible to automate mating and uncoupling work in assembly processes. Even in processes without automated equipment, uncoupling can be performed using general-purpose tools. Furthermore, because the tool can be operated even with the wire protection cover attached, the risk of damage that occurs when removing the cover can be avoided.

[0027] This embodiment is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 2, and a fulcrum is provided at the tip of the mating housing receiving part, and mating and disengagement based on the principle of leverage using a general-purpose tool is explained based on Figures 3 and 4.

[0028] At the start of uncoupling, connector 20 forms at least one opening 22a on the side surface 20a of the protruding portion that protrudes from the mating housing receptacle 10h of connector 10, through which tool 60 can penetrate in a direction perpendicular to the mating direction. Connector 10 has support portions 12 and 13 at the tip 10c of the mating housing receptacle, located opposite the tool insertion side (arrow c). These support portions enable the following tool manipulations: (1) During uncoupling (Figures 4b-c), the wall surface of opening 22a or a component of the other connector serves as uncoupling portion 23. The tip of the tool is tilted (arrow b) to abut support portion 13, forming a fulcrum. Uncoupling occurs using the principle of leverage, with the uncoupling portion serving as the point of application. (2) During mating (Figures 3b-d), the wall surface of opening 22a serves as mating portion 22. The tip of the tool is tilted (arrow a) to abut support portion 12, forming a fulcrum. Mating occurs using the principle of leverage, with the mating portion serving as the point of application.

[0029] The support part is not limited to the bracket 18, but can also be formed on the connector block or the mating housing accommodating part 10h. Depending on the embodiment, it is also possible to provide the separation fulcrum part and the mating fulcrum part separately. Also, the opening shape is not limited to a U-shape and can be applied to other shapes.

[0030] The strength of the mating support part 12 and mating part 22 is determined by setting the design load based on the mating load F2 in accordance with the concept of setting the strength of the release support part and release part.

[0031] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of claim 1, engagement using a tool is also possible, which improves the work efficiency of processes that are not automated.

[0032] This embodiment is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 3, and an opening that functions as a fulcrum is formed in the side wall of the mating housing receiving part, and mating and disengagement based on the principle of leverage using a general-purpose tool will be explained based on Figures 5 to 8.

[0033] At least one opening 10a is formed in the side wall of the mating housing accommodating portion 10h of the connector 10, penetrating in a direction perpendicular to the mating direction. The opening has a mating support portion 12 for the mating connector formed in a position facing the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodating portion (Figs. 7a and 16), and a removal support portion 13 for the mating connector formed in a position facing the mating support portion 12. Furthermore, the connector 20 has a removal portion 23 formed in a position facing the removal support portion 13 when removal begins, and a mating portion 22 formed in a position facing the mating support portion 12 when removal begins, enabling the following using a tool 60: (1) When removing, removal occurs by lever principle, with the support portion 13 as the fulcrum and the removal portion 23 as the point of application; and (2) When mating, mating occurs by lever principle, with the support portion 12 as the fulcrum and the mating portion 22 as the point of application. Mating and unmating are achieved by at least one of the above configurations.

[0034] <<Removal Method>> Figure 6a shows the start of removal, with the tip 61 of tool 60 (flathead screwdriver) inserted into the gap between support part 13 and removal part 23.

[0035] As shown in Figure 6b, insert tool tip 61 up to stopper 23c, and use the principle of leverage to detach connector 20 with support part 13b as the fulcrum and detachment part 23 as the point of application. This releases the contact between male terminal 30 and female terminal 40, allowing the worker to remove connector 20.

[0036] The release part 23 is provided with a pick-up part 23a that guides tool insertion, a contact surface 23b, and a stopper 23c that prevents excessive insertion. The leverage ratio is adjusted by selecting the tool and adjusting the positions of the support part 13b and stopper 23c.

[0037] <Mating Method> Figure 7a shows the initial mating state, where the operator pushes the connector 20 in until the terminal contact load reaches its peak just before the female terminal contact portion 41b passes over the male terminal tapered end 31b. Then, the tool tip 61 is inserted into the gap between the support portion 12 and the mating portion 22. The mating portion 22 has a gap for inserting the tool, and a stopper 22c is provided at a position to obtain the required leverage.

[0038] Figure 7b shows the completed mating state. Housing walls 16 and 26 are in contact, and tapered end 31b has passed contact point 41b, ensuring terminal contact.

[0039] The tip 61 of the tool is inserted up to the stopper 22c, and using the support part 12b as a fulcrum, it presses the mating part 22 by the principle of leverage. At this time, the tool shifts from the fulcrum, preventing the tip 61a from coming off the mating part 22.

[0040] <Application example of coupling method> Figure 8a shows a structure in which only removal is performed using a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool, and for structures that do not have a coupling configuration using the same tool, Figures 8b and 8c explain a coupling method using pliers.

[0041] The operator can perform the mating operation by using pliers 65 to pinch the rear end faces of both housings in the mating direction. When the wire protection cover is not attached, the provision of removal support part 13 allows the area where terminal accommodating part 21 is not located to be used as a space to pinch with the pliers. This reduces the risk of accidentally pinching the wires during the mating operation.

[0042] <<Removal Method of Application Example>> Similarly, for structures that do not have a removal mechanism, the removal work is carried out carefully using a vice or pliers so as not to damage the parts. The above is an example of the configuration related to the embodiment of claim 3.

[0043] In addition, with a conventional connector with a lever-type force-boosting mechanism (Patent Document 5), when a general-purpose tool without a rotating shaft is used, there is no restriction on the movement of the tool tip, which comes into contact with the housing and generates shavings that may get into the terminal contacts and cause poor conductivity.This invention limits the movement of the tool tip with stopper 22c and action point wall 22, thereby preventing the generation of shavings and ensuring the reliability of the connector connection.

[0044] <<Application Example 2>> This example is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 3, and explains mating and disengagement of a waterproof connector using a general-purpose tool with reference to Figure 9.

[0045] To ensure waterproof performance, mating and unmating operations are performed outside the watertight section between the rubber stopper 335 and the housing. A restricting rib is also provided on the housing to prevent tilting during mating, and two operating parts are configured to be operated simultaneously with two tools. This increases the efficiency of force transmission, and allows the number and position of operating parts to be freely configured.

[0046] An opening 320a is provided in mating housing accommodation portion 320h of connector 320, and mating support portion 322 and removal support portion 323 are provided for mating housing 310h. Housing 310h of connector 310 is provided with mating portion 312 facing mating support portion 322 and removal portion 313 facing removal support portion 323, and mating and removal are performed using tool 360 based on the principle of leverage.

[0047] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effect of claim 2, by forming an opening in the mating housing accommodating portion and enabling mating and disengagement using a tool, it is possible to suppress a reduction in the number of terminals accommodated and to obtain design freedom, including support for waterproof specifications.

[0048] This example is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 4, and will be explained based on Figures 10 to 12, in which the through holes for engagement and disengagement are shared by general-purpose parts (bolts and nuts). Note that this example is an example corresponding to (1) and (3) of the four configurations described in claim 4. The same effect can be obtained for the other configurations (2) and (4) by reversing the assembly direction of the bolts and nuts.

[0049] Opening 210a is provided in mating housing accommodating portion 210h of connector 210, and mating support portion 212 and separation support portion 213 are provided for mating connector 220. Housing 220h of connector 220 is provided with mating portion 222 facing mating support portion 212, and separation portion 223 facing separation support portion 213. In addition, a common through hole is formed that passes through mating support portion 212, mating portion 222, separation support portion 213, and separation portion 223. With this configuration, mating and separation are possible by tightening mating bolt 290a and nut 290c and separation bolt 291a and nut 291c.

[0050] <<How to Disconnect>> Figure 11a shows the mated state, and how to assemble bolt 291a and nut 291c to each connector to begin disconnection.

[0051] Figure 11b shows the bolts and nuts after they have been installed.

[0052] Figure 11c shows the state in which a tool is inserted through hole 254 in wire protection cover 250 and bolt 291a is tightened onto nut 291c, causing the tip of the bolt to abut against removal support part 213 and nut 291c to press against removal part 223, resulting in connector 220 being removed. As the removal releases the terminal contact and reduces the tightening force, the tightening work is stopped and the worker removes the connector. The bolt and nut are then removed in preparation for the fitting work.

[0053] <Mating Method> Figure 12a shows the state in which, to begin mating, the operator pushes the connector 220 to a position just before the terminal contact load peak occurs.

[0054] 12b shows the state in which the bolt 290a, washer 290b, and nut 290c are assembled to each connector. The surface 292b of the nut 290c abuts against the abutment surface 212b, and the two opposing surfaces 292a are positioned and prevented from rotating by the anti-rotation surfaces 212a.

[0055] Figure 12c shows the state where bolt 290a is tightened onto nut 290c with a tool, completing the mating. The nut 290c abuts against mating support part 212, and bolt 290a presses mating part 222 via washer 290b, completing the mating of the connector. After that, remove the general-purpose parts as necessary to finish the work.

[0056] Bolts, nuts, support parts, release parts, and engagement parts are designed to ensure strength that takes into account the safety factor for the load required for release and engagement.

[0057] <Application Example 2> In addition to the configuration of the previous application example, we will explain removal using a general-purpose tool based on Figure 13.

[0058] FIG. 13a shows the state in which tool 260 (a Phillips head screwdriver) is inserted into opening 210a provided in housing receiving portion 210h of connector 210 and removal is completed by lever operation.

[0059] Figure 13b is a perspective view showing cross section A-A in Figure 13a. Insert tip 261a of tool 260 from opening 210a until it hits abutment surface 223b, and operate the tool in the direction of arrow b with removal support part 213 as the fulcrum and removal part corner 223d as the point of application to press and remove connector 220. As with the previous application example, a general-purpose part is used for the mating operation.

[0060] Application Example 3: With separate operating parts for mating and disengagement, mating and disengagement using general-purpose tools or general-purpose parts is explained based on Figure 14.

[0061] The mating housing accommodating portion 410h of the connector 410 is provided with openings 410a and 410b, and is provided with a mating support portion 412 and a removal support portion 413 for the mating connector.

[0062] <Mating Method> Housing 420h of connector 420 is provided with mating portion 422 facing mating support portion 412, and holes 414a, 424a are formed through mating support portion 412a and mating portion 422 using fastening parts. To begin mating, bolt 490a is inserted through hole 414a and tightened to nut 490c via washer 490b and collar 490d, thereby achieving mating. Mating can also be achieved by inserting tool 460 through opening 410a and applying pressure to the mating portion using the principle of a lever, with mating support portion 412 as the fulcrum and mating portion 422 as the point of application.

[0063] <<Removal Method>> Housing 420h of connector 420 is provided with removal portion 423 facing removal support portion 413, and through-hole 424b is formed in the removal portion. To start removal, bolt 491a is inserted through hole 454b in wire protection cover 450 and tightened with nut 490c to remove it. Furthermore, removal is also possible by inserting tool 460 through opening 410b and pressing the removal portion using the principle of a lever, with removal support portion 413 as the fulcrum and removal portion 423 as the point of application.

[0064] Separating the mating and unmating operations allows for greater design freedom in areas that require strength, making it easier to ensure the necessary strength. It also allows for standardization of bolt sizes and the reduction of through-hole diameters, contributing to improved strength. Figure 14c shows the completed mating state using a general-purpose tool, while Figure 14d shows the initial mating state using a general-purpose part. Collar 490d is attached to prevent deformation of the male terminal by the bolt tightening tool.

[0065] According to this embodiment, the fastening operation allows engagement and disengagement even in places where tool operation is difficult as described in claim 3. This allows the appropriate work method to be selected depending on the assembly situation of the parts, allowing for flexible adaptation to the work environment. Also, since engagement during the assembly process does not depend on the fastening operation, there is no need to remove the bolt after engagement, reducing the workload. Furthermore, it is possible to avoid the increased costs and inspections that would accompany pre-assembly of nuts.

[0066] This embodiment is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 5, and in addition to the configuration of embodiment 1, a configuration in which the locked state of the connector locking mechanism is released by a general-purpose tool and then the connector is separated will be described with reference to Figs. 15 and 16.

[0067] An opening 28 for abutting the tip of a tool 61 is formed near the locking portion 27a of the connector 20, and the tip of the tool has a tapered portion 61b that can abut against the opening edges 28a and 28b.When starting to remove the connector, the tapered portion is abutted against the opening edge, and the area near the locking portion is pressed down until the tip of the tool abuts against stopper 23c, releasing the locked state (Figure 16a).

[0068] Figure 16b shows the state where male terminal 30 and female terminal 40 have been disengaged to a position where they are no longer in contact, and the locking portion 27a has been released from engagement portion 17. After that, the tool is removed, and the worker pulls out connector 20 (arrow c), completing the disengagement (Figure 16c).

[0069] The opening 28 is not limited to a U-shape, but can also be a square (or L-shape). Depending on these shapes, by using a tool configuration that includes the tapered portion 61c in addition to the tapered portion 61b, it is possible to abut against the edge of the opening and press the locking portion or its vicinity to release the locked state.

[0070] <<Application Example 2>> In addition to the configuration of Example 3, a configuration in which the connector's locking mechanism is released using a general-purpose tool and then removed is explained with reference to Figures 17 to 19.

[0071] An opening 28 is formed near the locking portion 27a of the connector 20 to allow the tool tip 61 to abut against it, and the tool tip has a tapered portion 61b that can abut against the opening edges 28a and 28b. When starting to remove the connector, the tapered portion is brought into contact with the opening edge, pushing down on the area near the locking portion to release the locked state (Fig. 18a). The connector then separates using the principle of leverage.

[0072] The width of edges 28a and 28b of opening 28 is set so that the tip of the tool can properly abut near the locking part. This alleviates the concentration of stress at the base of the beam of the locking mechanism due to displacement by the tool, and prevents damage to the locking mechanism by suppressing the generation of excessive stress.

[0073] Figure 18b and Figure 18c show the breakaway operation.

[0074] Figure 19 shows the state where the mating operation begins. As in Example 3, a tool is inserted through opening 10a. Figure 19b shows the state where mating is completed using the principle of leverage, with support part 12 as the fulcrum and mating part 22 as the point of application. Figure 19c shows the state where the locking mechanism has been restored by removing the tool, and the connectors are locked together.

[0075] <Application Example 3> Example 3 In the configuration of Application Example 2, a configuration in which the connector locking mechanism is released using a general-purpose tool and then removed is explained with reference to Figure 9.

[0076] An opening 327b is formed in the housing 320h to which the tip of the tool abuts, and the tapered portion 365b of the tool 365 is brought into abutment with the edge 328 to push up the locking portion 327a, thereby releasing the locked state, and then the tool is released by the principle of leverage.

[0077] Housing 310h is provided with guide groove 317d that penetrates engagement protrusion 317. This guide groove improves tool pick-up and prevents damage to the lock arm. In addition, the tool is secured in place using the reaction force of the lock arm when the lock arm is released from its engagement position. This eliminates the need for the operator to hold the tool, and allows for removal work using two tools 360.

[0078] According to this example, the configuration allows for tool operation along the unlocking direction, which increases the degree of freedom in securing the displacement required for unlocking, and since no special tools are required, the burden of obtaining and managing them is reduced. Furthermore, the exterior wall space can be used effectively, which increases the degree of freedom in the number of terminals that can be accommodated, and by performing the removal work after unlocking, damage to the locking mechanism can be prevented, and the locking function can be ensured even when reused after removal.

[0079] This example is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 6, and will be explained with reference to Figure 20 when applied to a connector to be installed inside a vehicle body panel, etc. Of the four configurations described in claim 6, this is an example corresponding to (1) and (3). The other configurations (2) and (4) can also achieve the same effect by reversing the bolt and nut installation direction.

[0080] Figure 20a shows the state in which connector 510 is assembled to body panel 560 with locking claw 517 and connector 520 is temporarily set. Figure 20b shows the state in which, after the worker has temporarily set connector 520, automated machine 80 presses pressing portion 551 of wire protection cover 550, completing the mating of the connector. Figure 20c shows the state in which locking claw 582 of grommet 580 is locked into body panel hole 561 and watertight portion 581 is pressed against body panel 560 to prevent water from entering, completing the assembly.

[0081] If detachment is required in a later process, the locking claw 582 of the grommet 580 is released to remove it from the vehicle body panel 560, and the bolt 291a is tightened to the detachment nut 591c that was previously assembled to detach it.

[0082] When mating, remove the release bolt 291a, assemble the mating nut 290c to the rear end of the housing 510h from the inside of the room, and then tighten the mating bolt 290a from the outside of the room to mating. After that, remove the general-purpose parts as necessary.

[0083] The waterproof structure of the grommet causes connector 510 to enter inside body panel 560, making it difficult to assemble a nut from opening 510a of housing 510h, so a release nut 591c is pre-assembled to housing 520h.

[0084] According to this embodiment, even in locations where it is difficult to assemble the release nut as described in claim 4, by configuring the release nut alone to be assembled in advance, release can be performed by tightening the bolt.

[0085] Additionally, although visual inspection is difficult after the grommet has been assembled, this configuration automates the mating process and utilizes the control sensor installed in the automated machine, making it possible to easily detect the mating status and guarantee proper mating.

[0086] This embodiment is one form corresponding to the technical configuration described in claim 7, and will be described with reference to Figure 21 regarding a case where an operating part that can be pressed, grasped, and pulled is provided at the rear end of the connector.

[0087] At the rear end of connector 20, there is provided an operating part 51 that can be pressed when mating, and an operating part 52 that can be gripped or pulled when disengaging, making it possible to automate mating and disengagement operations.

[0088] Figure 21a shows the worker provisionally setting the connector 20, and Figure 21b shows the robot 80 completing the mating by pressing the operating part 51. If necessary, a provisional locking structure can be provided to increase the holding force during provisional setting.

[0089] In addition, by configuring the work as a collaborative process in which the worker performs temporary setting and then the robot presses in, the control of the automatic machine is simplified and automation becomes easier. Furthermore, safety can be increased by designing the process so that the worker and robot do not work in the same space.

[0090] The robot recognizes the operating part using cameras and sensors and pushes it to the specified position. Gripper 81 at the tip of the robot arm presses operating part 51 when engaging, and grasps and pulls operating part 52 when disengaging.

[0091] The explanation for the wire protection cover is based on Figure 5. The wire protection cover 50 is assembled by sliding it into the housing 20h in a direction perpendicular to the mating direction (see Figures 5a and 5b). The slide locking protrusion 55c is displaced by the taper and slit 55d and is locked into the locking portion 25c, preventing it from coming off in the sliding direction. To remove it, insert a tool through the jig insertion portion 55e and displace the locking protrusion 55c to release it.

[0092] Furthermore, with this configuration, even if the wire protection cover is not attached, the locking protrusion 25b does not have a taper in the pressing direction, so the protrusion can be used as a pressing part and the mating work can be performed by an automated machine.

[0093] The pressing part 51 of the wire protection cover 50 has a U-shaped cross section to ensure a wide flat surface. This shape is suitable for pressing and gripping work by automatic machines, and provides more stable operability than U- or V-shaped cross sections.

[0094] Additionally, to improve assembly due to inward tilting caused by shrinkage after molding (in the direction of arrow a in Figure 5c), the end 55f is designed to abut against the housing corner 25f to correct it.

[0095] This example enables stable operations such as pressing and gripping. This simplifies the control of automated machines and facilitates automation. As a result, mating and unmating operations using automated machines and motion-assistance devices can improve work efficiency and connection reliability.

[0096] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to other configurations and embodiments.

[0097] 10 One connector (male connector) 10a Opening 10h Mating housing accommodating portion (male housing) 12 Support portion for mating 13 Support portion for removal 20 Other connector (female connector) 20h Mating housing (female housing) 22 Mating portion 23 Remove portion 51 Pressing portion 60 General-purpose tool (driver) 80 Robot (automatic machine) 290a General-purpose part (bolt) 290c General-purpose part (nut)

Claims

1. A pair of connectors that are mated and connected, each with a terminal protection structure and no pre-existing force-boosting mechanism, in which the tip of the mating housing accommodating part of one connector serves as a support part for removal from the mating connector, and the other connector has at least one removal part on the side of the protruding part that protrudes from the accommodating part at a position opposite to the support part when removal begins, and which can be removed using a general-purpose tool based on the principle of leverage, with the support part as the fulcrum and the removal part as the point of application.

2. In a pair of connectors that are mated and connected and that do not have a pre-loading mechanism, each having a terminal protection structure, the other connector has at least one opening formed in a direction perpendicular to the mating direction on the side of the protruding portion of one connector that protrudes from the mating housing accommodating portion of the other connector at the start of disengagement, and at least one support portion is provided on the tip of the mating housing accommodating portion at a position where the tip of a general-purpose tool inserted into the opening abuts, and at least one of the following can be achieved by using the tool: (1) During disengagement, the part of the wall surface of the opening or a member attached to the other connector that is located opposite the fulcrum for disengagement of the support portion serves as the disengagement portion, and the tip of the tool abuts on the support portion during disengagement operation using the tool, thereby forming the fulcrum for disengagement, and the connectors are disengaged by the principle of leverage with the disengagement portion as the point of application; (2) A connector characterized in that, when mating, the wall surface of the opening located opposite the mating fulcrum of the support part serves as the mating part, and when the mating operation is performed using the tool, the tip of the tool abuts against the support part, which serves as the mating fulcrum, and the connector is mated using the mating part as the point of application and the principle of leverage, and mating and disengagement are enabled by at least one of the above configurations.

3. A pair of connectors that are mated and connected, each having a terminal protection structure and no pre-existing force-boosting mechanism, wherein the side wall of the mating housing accommodating section of one connector has at least one opening formed therethrough in a direction perpendicular to the mating direction, and the opening has a support section for mating with the mating connector formed in a position facing the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodating section, and a support section for removing the mating connector formed in a position facing the support section for mating, and the other connector has a removal section formed in a position facing the support section for removal at the start of removal, and a mating section formed in a position facing the support section for mating at the start of mating, and at least one of the following is possible using a general-purpose tool: (1) When removing, the connectors are removed by the principle of leverage, with the support section for removal as the fulcrum and the removal section as the point of application; (2) When mating, the connectors are mated by the principle of leverage, with the support section for mating as the fulcrum and the mating section as the point of application. A connector characterized by enabling mating and removal by at least one of the above configurations.

4. The connector according to claim 3, which enables at least one of the following: (1) forming a through hole in the detachment portion, so that at the start of detachment, a nut is assembled by abutting against the detachment portion, a bolt is inserted through the through hole formed in the detachment portion and tightened onto the nut, and the tip of the bolt abuts against the support portion for detachment, causing the nut to press against the detachment portion and detach the connector; (2) forming a through hole in the support portion for detachment, so that at the start of detachment, a nut is assembled by abutting against the support portion for detachment, a bolt is inserted through the through hole formed in the support portion for detachment and tightened onto the nut, and the tip of the bolt abuts against the detachment portion, causing the bolt to press against the detachment portion and detach the connector; (3) A support portion for supporting a fastening component is formed in one of the connectors at a position opposite to the mating portion in the mating direction, and a hole is formed through the support portion and the mating portion, and at the start of mating, a nut is assembled by abutting it against the support portion, a bolt is inserted through a through hole formed in the mating portion and tightened onto the nut, and the bolt head abuts against the mating portion, causing the bolt to press against the mating portion and mating the connector; (4) At the start of mating, a nut is assembled by abutting it against the mating portion, a bolt is inserted through a through hole formed in the support portion and tightened onto the nut, and the bolt head abuts against the support portion, causing the nut to press against the mating portion and mating the connector. A connector characterized by being capable of mating and disengaging by at least one of the above configurations.

5. A connector as claimed in either claim 1 or claim 3, wherein an opening is formed near the locking portion of the locking mechanism provided on the other connector, parallel to the direction in which the locking portion is displaced when released, and the tip of the tool has an inclined portion that can abut against the periphery of the opening, and when starting to remove the connector, the inclined portion is brought into abutment against the periphery of the opening to press against the area near the locking portion, thereby releasing the locked state, and then the removal operation is performed.

6. A pair of connectors that are mated and connected and do not have a pre-installed force-boosting mechanism, which enables at least one of the following: (1) A support part for detachment for the mating connector is formed on the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodating part of one connector, and a detachment part is formed in the other connector at a position opposite the support part for detachment, and a through hole is formed in the detachment part, and a nut is abutted against the detachment part to form an assembled state, and at the start of detachment, a bolt is inserted through the through hole formed in the detachment part and tightened against the nut, and the tip of the bolt abuts against the support part for detachment, causing the nut to press against the detachment part and detach the connector; (2) A through hole is formed in the support part for detachment, and a nut is abutted against the support part for detachment to form an assembled state, and at the start of detachment, a bolt is inserted through the through hole formed in the support part for detachment and tightened against the nut, and the tip of the bolt abuts against the support part for detachment, causing the bolt to press against the detachment part and detach the connector; (3) A support portion for mating with the mating connector is formed in a position facing the bottom surface of the mating housing accommodating portion of one connector, and a mating portion is formed in the other connector at a position facing the support portion for mating, and a hole is formed that passes through the support portion for mating and the mating portion, and at the start of mating, a nut is assembled by abutting it against the support portion for mating, a bolt is inserted through a through hole formed in the mating portion and tightened onto the nut, and the bolt head abuts against the mating portion, causing the bolt to press against the mating portion and mating the connector, (4) A connector characterized by being able to be mated and separated by at least one of the above configurations.

7. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one operating portion capable of mating and unmating is provided at at least one rear end of said connector.

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