Outlet and wiring device system

Abstract

The present disclosure addresses the problem of reducing the size of a terminal structure of an outlet. An outlet (1) is provided with a blade receiving member (5), a terminal plate (6), a first locking spring (7), and a second locking spring (8). The terminal plate (6) is connected to the blade receiving member (5). The terminal plate (6) has a first terminal piece (11), a second terminal piece (12), and a third terminal piece (13). The first terminal piece (11) is coupled to the blade receiving member (5). The second terminal piece (12) faces the first terminal piece (11). The third terminal piece (13) couples the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12). The first terminal piece (11) is disposed facing the first locking spring (7), and holds a first electric wire between the first terminal piece (11) and the first locking spring (7). The second terminal piece (12) is disposed facing the second locking spring (8), and holds a second electric wire between the second terminal piece (12) and the second locking spring (8).

Description

Outlet and wiring device system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an outlet and a wiring device system including the outlet.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an outlet with a door. The outlet with a door includes a body, a blade receptacle, a plurality of terminals, a plurality of doors, a holding member, and an elastic member. The body is formed by coupling a box-shaped body and a cover, and two pairs of blade receptacle holes for a pair of two and two pairs of blade receptacle holes for a grounding electrode are provided on the front surface of the cover. The blade receptacle houses a plug blade inserted through a pair of two blade receptacle holes provided inside the body. The plurality of terminals are housed inside the body and are electrically connected to the blade receptacle.

[0003] In the outlet having the above configuration, two pairs of blade receptacle holes for a pair of two are provided on the front surface of the body having a three-module dimension. On the other hand, in an outlet provided with one pair of blade receptacle holes for a pair of two on the front surface of the body having a one-module dimension, miniaturization of the terminal structure is required due to restrictions on the dimensions of the body (outlet main body).

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-173125

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an outlet and a wiring device system capable of miniaturizing the terminal structure.

[0006] An outlet according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a blade receptacle member, a terminal plate, a first locking spring, and a second locking spring. The blade receptacle member receives the plug blade of the plug. The terminal plate is connected to the blade receptacle member. The first locking spring holds a first electric wire between the terminal plate. The second locking spring holds a second electric wire between the terminal plate. The terminal plate has a first terminal piece, a second terminal piece, and a third terminal piece. The first terminal piece is connected to the blade receptacle member. The second terminal piece faces the first terminal piece. The third terminal piece connects the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece. The first terminal piece is disposed to face the first locking spring and holds the first electric wire between the first locking spring. The second terminal piece is disposed to face the second locking spring and holds the second electric wire between the second locking spring.

[0007] A wiring device system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises the outlet and a mounting frame. The mounting frame can be attached to an object while holding the outlet.

[0008] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an outlet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a front view of the outlet mounted on a mounting frame. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the outlet before it is mounted on the mounting frame. Figure 4 is a front view of the outlet with the cover removed. Figure 5 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a rear view of the outlet. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first blade receiving member. Figure 8 is a side view of the first blade receiving member. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I in Figure 8. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the terminal plate and locking spring connected to the first blade receiving member. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the terminal plate and locking spring connected to the third blade receiving member. Figure 12 is a partially enlarged view of an outlet according to a modified example.

[0009] Hereinafter, an outlet and wiring device system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the dimensional ratios of the size of each component do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the configuration described in the following embodiments is merely one example of this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of this disclosure can be achieved.

[0010] (Embodiment) (1) Overview The outlet 1 of this embodiment includes an outlet body 2 to which a plug 300 (see Figure 3) having a pair of plug blades 301, 301 and a grounding pin 302 can be attached and detached.

[0011] The outlet body 2 includes a front cover 3 in the front-to-back direction and a body 4 attached to the rear of the cover 3 (see Figure 1, etc.).

[0012] The front surface 3a of the cover 3 is provided with a pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 into which the pair of plug blades 301, 301 of the plug 300 are inserted, and a grounding pin insertion hole 32 into which the grounding pin 302 of the plug 300 is inserted (see Figure 2).

[0013] The rear surface 4a of the body 4 is provided with two first wire insertion holes 25 into which the power supply wire W1 is inserted, two second wire insertion holes 26 into which the power supply wire W2 is inserted, and two third wire insertion holes 27 into which the grounding wire W3 is inserted (see Figure 6). Of the two first wire insertion holes 25, two second wire insertion holes 26, and three third wire insertion holes 27, one of each is used for inserting jumper wires.

[0014] Here, power lines W1 and W2 are power supply wires (see Figure 3). Power lines W1 and W2 are, for example, wires for supplying AC power, and are wires that connect a branch breaker (not shown) housed in a distribution board (not shown) that distributes AC power to outlet 1. Grounding wire W3 is, for example, a wire that connects a grounding terminal provided in the distribution board to outlet 1.

[0015] As shown in Figure 10 and other figures, the outlet 1 of this embodiment includes a first blade receiving member 5, a first terminal plate 6, a first locking spring 7, and a second locking spring 8.

[0016] The first blade receiving member 5 is connected to one of the plug blades 301 of the plug 300 inserted through one of the plug blade insertion holes 31 of the cover 3. The first terminal board 6 is connected to the first blade receiving member 5 and is configured to allow connection of two power lines W1 (see Figure 10). One of the two power lines W1 (hereinafter referred to as "first power line W1") can be connected to the power supply side, and the other power line W1 (hereinafter referred to as "second power line W1") can be used as a jumper wire to connect to the power supply side of another outlet.

[0017] As shown in Figure 10, the first terminal board 6 has a first terminal piece 11, a second terminal piece 12, and a third terminal piece 13. The first terminal piece 11 is connected to the first blade receiving member 5. The second terminal piece 12 faces the first terminal piece 11. The third terminal piece 13 connects the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12.

[0018] The first terminal piece 11 is positioned opposite the first locking spring 7. The first terminal piece 11 holds the first power wire W1 between itself and the first locking spring 7. The second terminal piece 12 is positioned opposite the second locking spring 8. The second terminal piece 12 holds the second power wire W1 between itself and the second locking spring 8. The first power wire W1 corresponds to the "first electric wire" in this disclosure. The second power wire W1 corresponds to the "second electric wire" in this disclosure.

[0019] The first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, the first locking spring 7, and the second locking spring 8 constitute a quick-connect terminal for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1. Therefore, in the following, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, the first locking spring 7, and the second locking spring 8 may be collectively referred to as a quick-connect terminal.

[0020] In other words, when the first power wire W1 inserted through the first wire insertion hole 25 of the body 4 is inserted between the first locking spring 7 and the first terminal piece 11, the spring force of the first locking spring 7 causes the first power wire W1 to be pinched between the first terminal piece 11 and the first locking spring 7, and the first locking spring 7 bites into the first power wire W1, making it impossible to pull out the first power wire W1. In this way, the first power wire W1 is held between the first locking spring 7 and the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal plate 6.

[0021] Similarly, when the second power wire W1 inserted through the first wire insertion hole 25 of the body 4 is inserted between the second locking spring 8 and the second terminal piece 12, the spring force of the second locking spring 8 causes the second power wire W1 to be pinched between the second terminal piece 12 and the second locking spring 8, and the second locking spring 8 bites into the second power wire W1, making it impossible to pull out the second power wire W1. In this way, the second power wire W1 is held between the second locking spring 8 and the second terminal piece 12 of the first terminal plate 6.

[0022] In the outlet 1 of this embodiment, the first power wire W1 and the second power wire W1 can be connected to the first terminal board 6 simply by inserting them from the rear surface 4a of the body 4. This makes the connection work easier compared to using pillar terminals or screw terminals, as it does not require the use of tools.

[0023] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the outlet 1 has a first terminal plate 6 connected to the first blade receiving member 5, which includes a first terminal piece 11, a second terminal piece 12, and a third terminal piece 13. The first terminal piece 11 holds the first power line W1 between itself and the first locking spring 7, and the second terminal piece 12 holds the second power line W1 between itself and the second locking spring 8, which are positioned opposite each other.

[0024] As shown in Figure 4, the opposing directions of the first locking spring 7 and the first terminal piece 11, the opposing directions of the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12, and the opposing directions of the second terminal piece 12 and the second locking spring 8 are aligned with the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). In other words, the first locking spring 7, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the second locking spring 8 are arranged in a line along the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). This makes it possible to shorten the size of the body 4 in the longitudinal direction (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). That is, in the outlet 1, the quick-connect terminals for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1 can be configured in a space-saving manner. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide an outlet 1 that enables miniaturization of the terminal structure.

[0025] Furthermore, the wiring device system A1 according to this embodiment (see Figure 3) comprises an outlet 1 and a mounting frame 200. The mounting frame 200 can be attached to an object while holding the outlet 1.

[0026] Furthermore, the mounting object to which the mounting frame 200 is attached is, for example, the wall of a residential or non-residential building. The mounting frame 200 is attached to the wall with the rear part of the outlet 1 held by the mounting frame 200 inserted into a mounting hole (not shown) provided in the wall. In this way, the outlet 1 is attached to the wall via the mounting frame 200. Note that the mounting object is not limited to the wall of a residential or non-residential building, but may also be, for example, equipment installed inside or outside a building, or walls on moving objects such as railway cars, aircraft, or ships. Since the wiring device system A1 is equipped with the outlet 1 described above, it is possible to provide a wiring device system A1 equipped with an outlet 1 that allows for miniaturization of the terminal structure.

[0027] (2) Details Below, the outlet 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 11.

[0028] In the following description, the X-axis direction in Figure 1, etc., is defined as the front-to-back direction (depth direction), the Y-axis direction as the left-to-right direction, and the Z-axis direction as the up-to-down direction. Furthermore, the positive direction in the X-axis direction is defined as the front, the positive direction in the Y-axis direction as the right side, and the positive direction in the Z-axis direction as the top. In this embodiment, the shape of the outlet body 2 when viewed from the front is rectangular. The outlet body 2 is mounted to an object (e.g., a wall) via the mounting frame 200 with its longitudinal direction parallel to the left-to-right direction and its short direction parallel to the up-to-down direction. However, these directions are just examples and are not intended to limit the direction in which the outlet 1 and wiring device system A1 are used. The outlet body 2 may also be mounted to an object (e.g., a wall) via the mounting frame 200 with its longitudinal direction parallel to the up-to-down direction and its short direction parallel to the left-to-right direction. Note that the arrows indicating each direction in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual objects.

[0029] (2.1) Outlet The outlet 1 according to this embodiment includes an outlet body 2 formed by joining a body 4 and a cover 3, as described above. The outlet body 2 is configured to allow the attachment and detachment of a plug 300 (see Figure 3) which has a pair of plug blades 301 and a grounding pin 302.

[0030] The outlet body 2 houses the first blade receiving member 5, the first terminal plate 6, the first locking spring 7, the second locking spring 8, and the first release button 14.

[0031] The outlet body 2 further houses the second blade receiving member 5A, the second terminal plate 6A, the third locking spring 7A, the fourth locking spring 8A, and the second release button 14A.

[0032] The outlet body 2 further houses a third blade receiving member 15, a third terminal plate 16, a fourth terminal plate 17, a fifth locking spring 18, a sixth locking spring 19, and a third release button 20.

[0033] The first blade receiving member 5 has a structure that is symmetrical to the second blade receiving member 5A. The first terminal plate 6 has a structure that is symmetrical to the second terminal plate 6A. The first release button 14 and the second release button 14A have the same shape.

[0034] Furthermore, the first locking spring 7, the second locking spring 8, the third locking spring 7A, the fourth locking spring 8A, the fifth locking spring 18, and the sixth locking spring 19 have the same shape.

[0035] (2.1.1) Cover The cover 3 is formed from a synthetic resin material such as PC (polycarbonate) and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with the entire rear surface open.

[0036] The front surface 3a of the cover 3 is provided with a pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 into which the pair of plug blades 301, 301 of the plug 300 are inserted, and a grounding pin insertion hole 32 into which the grounding pin 302 of the plug 300 is inserted.

[0037] A pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 are provided on the lower part of the front surface 3a of the cover 3, aligned in the left-right direction. Each of the pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 is formed by connecting an insertion hole 31a for a round pin type plug blade and an insertion hole 31b for a flat plate plug blade (see Figure 2). More specifically, the pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 have a symmetrical shape. Each of the pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 is formed in a shape that connects a semi-elliptical hole into which a round pin type plug blade can be inserted and a rectangular hole into which a flat plate plug blade can be inserted. Therefore, both flat plate plug blades and round pin type plug blades can be inserted into each of the pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31. The grounding pin insertion hole 32 is provided on the upper part of the front surface 3a of the cover 3, in the center in the left-right direction.

[0038] The cover 3 has four sides adjacent to the front surface 3a. As shown in Figure 1, two of the four sides that face each other in the left-right direction are provided with two projections 33 that are inserted into insertion grooves 211 provided in the first frame piece 210 (see Figure 2) of the mounting frame 200. The cover 3 is also provided with fitting portions 34 that protrude rearward from each of the two sides that face each other in the left-right direction. The body 4 and the cover 3 are joined by fitting the fitting portions 34 into the fitting holes 24 of the body 4.

[0039] (2.1.2) Body The body 4 is formed of a synthetic resin material such as PC. The body 4 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with the entire front surface open. In this embodiment, the body 4 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a rectangular opening at the bonding surface with the cover 3. The interior of the body 4 is divided into three storage compartments (first storage compartment 21, second storage compartment 21A, and third storage compartment 22) by partition walls 40, 41, 41A, and 42 which are integrally provided with the body 4 (see Figure 1, etc.).

[0040] Figure 4 is a front view of the outlet 1 with the cover 3 removed. As shown in Figure 4, when viewed along the direction normal to the coupling surface with the cover 3 (the X-axis direction in Figure 4), the body 4 is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4, the first housing chamber 21 on the lower left side of the body 4 houses the first blade receiving member 5, the first terminal plate 6, the first locking spring 7, the second locking spring 8, and the first release button 14. The first blade receiving member 5 is connected to the left plug blade 301 of the plug 300 inserted through the plug blade insertion hole 31 on the left side of the cover 3. The first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 are positioned opposite each other with the first terminal plate 6 in between. The first release button 14 is positioned adjacent to the left side of the first locking spring 7, the first terminal plate 6, and the second locking spring 8.

[0042] In the second storage chamber 21A on the lower right side of the body 4, as shown in FIG. 4, a second blade receiving member 5A, a second terminal plate 6A, a third locking spring 7A, a fourth locking spring 8A, and a second release button 14A are accommodated. The second blade receiving member 5A is connected to the plug blade 301 on the right side of the plug 300 inserted through the plug blade insertion hole 31 on the right side of the cover 3. The third locking spring 7A and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged opposite to each other with the second terminal plate 6A interposed therebetween. The second release button 14A is arranged adjacent to the right sides of the third locking spring 7A, the second terminal plate 6A, and the fourth locking spring 8A.

[0043] In the third storage chamber 22 at the upper center of the body 4, as shown in FIG. 4, a third blade receiving member 15, a third terminal plate 16, a fourth terminal plate 17, a fifth locking spring 18, a sixth locking spring 19, and a third release button 20 are accommodated. The third blade receiving member 15 is connected to the ground pin 302 of the plug 300 inserted through the plug blade insertion hole 31 of the cover 3. The third blade receiving member 15 is connected to the third terminal plate 16 and the fourth terminal plate 17. The sixth locking spring 19 and the fifth locking spring 18 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the third blade receiving member 15. The sixth locking spring 19 is arranged opposite to the fourth terminal plate 17. The fifth locking spring 18 is arranged opposite to the third terminal plate 16. The third release button 20 is arranged between the third terminal plate 16 and the fourth terminal plate 17.

[0044] As described above, the first blade receiving member 5, the second blade receiving member 5A, and the third blade receiving member 15 for the ground pin are housed in the body 4.

[0045] The first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A are arranged opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 4) of the body 4. The first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A face each other through a partition wall 40 provided in the body 4. The first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A have a shape that is mirror-symmetrical with respect to a virtual plane (XZ plane in FIG. 4) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 4) of the body 4.

[0046] Also, the first terminal plate 6 and the second terminal plate 6A have a shape that is mirror-symmetrical with respect to a virtual plane (XZ plane in FIG. 4) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 4) of the body 4.

[0047] The first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 are arranged to face each other with the first terminal plate 6 interposed therebetween in the lateral direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 4). The third locking spring 7A and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged to face each other with the second terminal plate 6A interposed therebetween in the lateral direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 4).

[0048] The third blade receiving member 15 for the ground pin is arranged adjacent to the first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A in the lateral direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in FIG. 4). The third blade receiving member 15 faces the first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A via a partition wall 42 provided in the body 4.

[0049] In the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 4), a third terminal plate 16 and a fourth terminal plate 17 are arranged on both sides of the third blade receiving member 15.

[0050] The third terminal plate 16 is arranged to face the fifth locking spring 18. The fifth locking spring 18 is arranged adjacent to the fourth locking spring 8A in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 4). The fifth locking spring 18 is adjacent to the fourth locking spring 8A via a partition wall 41A provided in the body 4.

[0051] The fourth terminal plate 17 is arranged to face the sixth locking spring 19. The sixth locking spring 19 is arranged adjacent to the second locking spring 8 in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 4). The sixth locking spring 19 is adjacent to the second locking spring 8 via a partition wall 41 provided in the body 4.

[0052] Thus, the third blade receiving member 15 is arranged between the second locking spring 8 and the fourth locking spring 8A in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 4).

[0053] Furthermore, Figure 5 shows an enlarged view of the area around the first terminal board 6 in Figure 4. As shown in Figure 5, a space S1 is provided between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12, which are arranged opposite each other. A support member 411 is positioned in the space S1 between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12. The support member 411 supports the tip of the first terminal piece 11 and the tip of the second terminal piece 12 in the direction in which the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 face each other (the Z-axis direction in Figure 5). The support member 411 is formed from a part of the body 4. More specifically, the support member 411 is formed from a part of a partition wall 41 which is integrally provided with the body 4. Thus, in this embodiment, the body 4 is provided with a support member 411 that supports the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12.

[0054] Furthermore, a portion 14a of the first release button 14 is positioned between the support member 411 and the third terminal piece 13. The first release button 14 is positioned adjacent to the left side of the first locking spring 7, the first terminal plate 6, and the second locking spring 8.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the body 4 has four sides. Of the four sides, fitting holes 24 are provided on each of the two sides that are opposite to each other in the left-right direction. Fitting portions 34 that protrude rearward from each of the two sides of the cover 3 that are opposite to each other in the left-right direction are fitted into the fitting holes 24.

[0056] Figure 6 is a rear view of the outlet 1. As shown in Figure 6, two first wire insertion holes 25 are provided on the left side of the rear surface 4a of the body 4, at the bottom of the first storage chamber 21. The two first wire insertion holes 25 are arranged vertically. On the rear surface 4a of the body 4, a first release button hole 28 leading to the first release button 14 is provided between the two first wire insertion holes 25.

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, two second wire insertion holes 26 are provided on the right side of the rear surface 4a of the body 4, at the bottom of the second storage chamber 21A. The two second wire insertion holes 26 are arranged vertically. On the rear surface 4a of the body 4, a second release button hole 28A leading to the second release button 14A is provided between the two second wire insertion holes 26.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, two third wire insertion holes 27 are provided in the central part of the rear surface 4a of the body 4 in the left-right direction, which is the bottom of the third storage chamber 22. The two third wire insertion holes 27 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. On the rear surface 4a of the body 4, a third release button hole 29 leading to the third release button 20 is provided between the two third wire insertion holes 27.

[0059] (2.1.3) First blade receiving member Next, the configuration of the first blade receiving member 5 of the outlet 1 will be explained using Figures 7 to 9.

[0060] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first blade receiving member 5. Figure 8 is a side view of the first blade receiving member 5. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I in Figure 8.

[0061] Furthermore, the first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A have a symmetrical structure. For this reason, the configuration of the first blade receiving member 5 will be described below, and the description of the second blade receiving member 5A will be omitted.

[0062] The first blade receiving member 5 is formed of an elastic conductive metal material (for example, a copper alloy). The first blade receiving member 5 includes a pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51, a second blade receiving spring 52, and a first connecting member 53.

[0063] The pair of first blade support springs 51, 51 are arranged facing each other. The second blade support spring 52 is arranged facing one side of the pair of first blade support springs 51. The first connecting member 53 is connected to the pair of first blade support springs 51, 51 and the second blade support spring 52.

[0064] The first connecting member 53 is integrally formed with the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52 at the base end side of the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52. The first connecting member 53 is integrally formed with the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal plate 6.

[0065] Since the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52 are elastic, when a round pin-type plug blade is inserted as a plug blade 301 between the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51, the round pin-type plug blade is elastically held between the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51. When a flat plug blade is inserted as a plug blade 301 between one edge portion of the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52, the flat plug blade is elastically held between the edge portion of the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52.

[0066] (2.1.4) As shown in Figure 7, the first terminal plate 6 is integrally provided on the first blade receiving member 5 of the first terminal plate. The first terminal plate 6, together with the first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8, constitutes a quick-connect terminal for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1.

[0067] The first terminal board 6 has a first terminal piece 11, a second terminal piece 12, and a third terminal piece 13.

[0068] The first terminal piece 11 is integrally formed with the first connecting member 53. The first terminal piece 11 has a flat plate shape extending in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction in Figure 7). The first terminal piece 11 has a first main surface 11a and a second main surface 11b that face each other in the thickness direction. The first main surface 11a of the first terminal piece 11 has a plurality of grooves formed along the short side direction (Y-axis direction in Figure 7). The second main surface 11b of the first terminal piece 11 faces each other with the second main surface 12b of the second terminal piece 12. The second main surface 11b of the first terminal piece 11 is provided with a first projection 11c that protrudes toward the second terminal piece 12. The front end of the first terminal piece 11 is curved downward (negative Z-axis direction in Figure 7). The front end of the first terminal piece 11 is bent at a 90-degree angle to the rest of the piece.

[0069] The second terminal piece 12 faces the first terminal piece 11. The second terminal piece 12 has a flat plate shape extending in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction in the figure). The second terminal piece 12 has a first main surface 12a and a second main surface 12b that face each other in the thickness direction. The first main surface 12a of the second terminal piece 12 has a plurality of grooves formed along the short side direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The second main surface 12b of the second terminal piece 12 faces the second main surface 11b of the first terminal piece 11. The second main surface 12b of the second terminal piece 12 is provided with a second projection 12c that protrudes toward the first terminal piece 11. The front end of the second terminal piece 12 is curved upward (positive Z-axis direction in Figure 7, etc.). The front end of the second terminal piece 12 is bent 90 degrees relative to the rest of the piece. The front end of the first terminal piece 11 and the front end of the second terminal piece 12 are curved so as to be separated from each other.

[0070] As shown in Figure 7, the third terminal piece 13 has a flat plate shape extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction in Figure 7). The third terminal piece 13 has a first main surface 13a and a second main surface 13b that are opposite each other in the thickness direction. The lower end of the third terminal piece 13 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction in Figure 7) is integrally formed with the front of the left side surface of the first terminal piece 11. The upper end of the third terminal piece 13 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction in Figure 7) is integrally formed with the front of the left side surface of the second terminal piece 12. In this way, the third terminal piece 13 connects the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the third terminal piece 13 are formed in a U shape by the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 being connected via the third terminal piece 13.

[0072] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 facing the first terminal plate 6. As shown in Figure 10, the first terminal piece 11 is positioned facing the first locking spring 7. The second terminal piece 12 is positioned facing the second locking spring 8.

[0073] As described above, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, the first locking spring 7, and the second locking spring 8 constitute a quick-connect terminal for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1.

[0074] The first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 have the same shape. The first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 are formed by bending a sheet of elastic conductive metal material (for example, stainless steel).

[0075] The first locking spring 7 has a first locking piece 7a formed by bending the first end of a plate into a J shape, and a first pressing piece 7b formed by bending the second end of a plate into an S shape. The first locking piece 7a and the first pressing piece 7b of the first locking spring 7 face the first main surface 11a of the first terminal piece 11.

[0076] The second locking spring 8 has a second locking piece 8a formed by bending the first end of a plate into a J shape, and a second pressing piece 8b formed by bending the second end of a plate into an S shape. The second locking piece 8a and the second pressing piece 8b of the second locking spring 8 face the first main surface 12a of the second terminal piece 12.

[0077] Thus, the first terminal plate 6, together with the first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8, constitutes a quick-connect terminal for holding the first power line W1 and the second power line W1. A first terminal piece 11 that holds the first power line W1 between itself and the first locking spring 7 and a second terminal piece 12 that holds the second power line W1 between itself and the second locking spring 8 are arranged opposite each other.

[0078] As shown in Figure 4, the opposing directions of the first locking spring 7 and the first terminal piece 11, the opposing directions of the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12, and the opposing directions of the second terminal piece 12 and the second locking spring 8 are aligned with the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). In other words, the first locking spring 7, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the second locking spring 8 are arranged in a line along the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). This makes it possible to shorten the size of the body 4 in the longitudinal direction (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). That is, in the outlet 1, the quick-connect terminals for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1 can be configured in a space-saving manner.

[0079] The second terminal board 6A has a structure that is symmetrical to the first terminal board 6 (see Figures 1 and 4). The second terminal board 6A, together with the third locking spring 7A and the fourth locking spring 8A, constitutes a quick-connect terminal for connecting the first power line W2 and the second power line W2. On the second terminal board 6A, the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 are arranged facing each other (see Figure 1). The first terminal piece 11 holds the first power line W2 between itself and the third locking spring 7A. The second terminal piece 12 holds the second power line W2 between itself and the fourth locking spring 8A. The first power line W2 corresponds to the "first electric wire" in this disclosure. The second power line W2 corresponds to the "second electric wire" in this disclosure.

[0080] As shown in Figure 4, the opposing directions of the third locking spring 7A and the first terminal piece 11, the opposing directions of the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12, and the opposing directions of the second terminal piece 12 and the fourth locking spring 8A are aligned with the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). In other words, the third locking spring 7A, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged in a line along the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). This makes it possible to shorten the size of the body 4 in the long direction (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). That is, in the outlet 1, the quick-connect terminals for connecting the first power line W2 and the second power line W2 can be configured in a space-saving manner.

[0081] (2.1.5) Third blade receiving member The third blade receiving member 15 is made of an elastic conductive metal material (for example, a copper alloy). As shown in Figure 11, the third blade receiving member 15 has a pair of third blade receiving springs 54, 54 and a second connecting member 55.

[0082] The pair of third blade springs 54, 54 are arranged facing each other. Since the pair of third blade springs 54, 54 are elastic, when a round pin-type grounding pin 302 is inserted between the pair of third blade springs 54, 54, the pair of third blade springs 54, 54 elastically hold the round pin-type grounding pin 302 inserted between the pair of third blade springs 54, 54.

[0083] The second connecting member 55 is connected to a pair of third blade springs 54, 54. The second connecting member 55 is integrally formed with the pair of third blade springs 54, 54 at their base ends. The second connecting member 55 is integrally formed with the third terminal plate 16 and the fourth terminal plate 17. The third terminal plate 16 is formed to the right of the second connecting member 55, and the fourth terminal plate 17 is formed to the left of the second connecting member 55.

[0084] The third terminal plate 16 has a flat plate shape that extends in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction in Figure 11). The third terminal plate 16 has a first main surface 16a and a second main surface 16b that face each other in the thickness direction. The first main surface 16a of the third terminal plate 16 has a plurality of grooves formed along the short side direction (Y-axis direction in Figure 11). The first main surface 16a of the third terminal plate 16 is positioned opposite the fifth locking spring 18. The front end of the third terminal plate 16 is curved upward (positive Z-axis direction in Figure 11). The front end of the third terminal plate 16 is bent 90 degrees relative to the rest of the plate.

[0085] The fourth terminal plate 17 has a flat plate shape that extends in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction in Figure 11). The fourth terminal plate 17 has a first main surface 17a and a second main surface 17b that are opposite each other in the thickness direction. The first main surface 17a of the fourth terminal plate 17 has a plurality of grooves formed along the short side direction (Y-axis direction in Figure 11). The first main surface 17a of the fourth terminal plate 17 is positioned opposite the sixth locking spring 19. The front end of the fourth terminal plate 17 is curved upward (positive Z-axis direction in Figure 11). The front end of the fourth terminal plate 17 is bent at a 90-degree angle.

[0086] The fifth locking spring 18 and the sixth locking spring 19 have the same shape. The fifth locking spring 18 and the sixth locking spring 19 are formed by bending a sheet of elastic conductive metal material (for example, stainless steel).

[0087] The fifth locking spring 18 has a third locking piece 18a formed by bending the first end of a plate into a J shape, and a third pressing piece 18b formed by bending the second end of a plate into an S shape. The third locking piece 18a and the third pressing piece 18b of the fifth locking spring 18 face the first main surface 16a of the third terminal plate 16.

[0088] The sixth locking spring 19 has a fourth locking piece 19a formed by bending the first end of a plate into a J shape, and a fourth pressing piece 19b formed by bending the second end of a plate into an S shape. The fourth locking piece 19a and the fourth pressing piece 19b of the sixth locking spring 19 face the first main surface 17a of the fourth terminal plate 17.

[0089] The third terminal plate 16, together with the fifth locking spring 18, holds the first grounding wire W3. The fourth terminal plate 17, together with the sixth locking spring 19, holds the second grounding wire W3. In this way, quick-connect terminals for connecting the first grounding wire W3 and quick-connect terminals for connecting the second grounding wire W3 are independently configured on both the left and right sides of the third blade receiving member 15. The connection portions of the first grounding wire W3 and the second grounding wire W3 are less likely to interfere with each other. This makes it easier to ensure the stability of the connection between the first grounding wire W3 and the second grounding wire W3.

[0090] (2.2) Wiring device system The wiring device system A1 according to this embodiment includes an outlet 1 and a mounting frame 200 (see Figure 3).

[0091] The mounting frame 200 is formed in a rectangular frame shape from, for example, an electrically insulating synthetic resin.

[0092] As shown in Figure 2, the mounting frame 200 is formed in a rectangular frame shape by a pair of first frame pieces 210 extending along the shorter direction (Y-axis direction in Figure 2) of the outlet body 2, and a pair of second frame pieces 220 connecting the ends of the pair of first frame pieces 210.

[0093] The mounting frame 200 has a rectangular opening 230 surrounded by a pair of first frame pieces 210 and a pair of second frame pieces 220. Up to three outlets 1 are arranged in a row in the shorter direction within the opening 230. Each of the pair of first frame pieces 210 is provided with three sets of two insertion grooves 211 into which two projections 33, provided on the left and right sides of the cover 3, are inserted.

[0094] Each of the pair of second frame pieces 220 is provided with an elongated hole 221 for inserting a screw member (not shown) for screw-fixing the mounting frame 200 to a switch box (not shown) embedded in a wall, for example. Each of the pair of second frame pieces 220 is also provided with two round holes 222 for inserting a screw member (not shown), such as a tapping screw, for fixing the mounting frame 200 to a wall such as plasterboard.

[0095] The outlet body 2 is held in the mounting frame 200 with two projections 33, each provided on the left and right sides of the cover 3, inserted into two insertion grooves 211 provided on a pair of first frame pieces 210. Then, with the rear of the outlet body 2 held in the mounting frame 200 inserted into a recessed hole provided in the wall, the mounting frame 200 is fixed to the wall using screw members inserted into the elongated holes 221 or round holes 222 of the second frame piece 220. In this way, the outlet 1 is attached to an object to be mounted, such as a wall, via the mounting frame 200.

[0096] In this embodiment, the size of the outlet body 2 is designed to be a single module size, allowing three outlet bodies 2 to be mounted side-by-side on a mounting frame 200 that can be attached to an object (e.g., a wall) while holding the outlet body 2. The single module size outlet body 2 can accommodate three sets of quick-connect terminals to which a pair of power lines W1, W2 and a grounding wire W3 can be connected, thus realizing a compact (single module size) outlet 1 equipped with quick-connect terminals. Therefore, up to three outlets 1 can be mounted and used on the mounting frame 200.

[0097] (3) Operation Description The following describes the work to be done when installing the outlet 1 of this embodiment.

[0098] (3.1) The connection method for connecting power lines W1, W2 and grounding wire W3 to the electrical outlet 1 will be explained using Figures 10 and 11.

[0099] When a user (for example, a contractor) inserts the first power wire W1 into one of the first wire insertion holes 25 located at the bottom of the first storage chamber 21, as shown in Figure 10, the first power wire W1 inserted from the first wire insertion hole 25 is inserted between the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal board 6 and the first locking spring 7. At this time, the first locking piece 7a of the first locking spring 7 bites into the first power wire W1, preventing the first power wire W1 from being pulled out of the first wire insertion hole 25. In addition, the first pressing piece 7b of the first locking spring 7 presses the first power wire W1 against the first terminal piece 11, thereby electrically connecting the first power wire W1 to the first terminal board 6 and the first blade receiving member 5.

[0100] Here, the front end of the first terminal piece 11 is curved downward (in the negative Z-axis direction in Figure 10), which prevents the tip of the first power line W1 from protruding forward (in the positive X-axis direction in Figure 10).

[0101] Furthermore, when a user (for example, a contractor) inserts the second power wire W1 into the other first wire insertion hole 25 located at the bottom of the first storage chamber 21, as shown in Figure 10, the second power wire W1 inserted from the first wire insertion hole 25 is inserted between the second terminal piece 12 of the first terminal board 6 and the second locking spring 8. At this time, the second locking piece 8a of the second locking spring 8 bites into the second power wire W1, preventing the second power wire W1 from being pulled out of the first wire insertion hole 25. In addition, the second pressing piece 8b of the second locking spring 8 presses the second power wire W1 against the second terminal piece 12, thereby electrically connecting the second power wire W1 to the first terminal board 6 and the first blade receiving member 5.

[0102] Here, the front end of the second terminal piece 12 is curved upward (in the positive Z-axis direction in Figure 10), which prevents the tip of the second power line W1 from protruding forward (in the positive X-axis direction in Figure 10).

[0103] Similarly, when a user (e.g., a contractor) inserts the first power wire W2 into one of the second wire insertion holes 26 located at the bottom of the second storage chamber 21A, the first power wire W2 inserted from the second wire insertion hole 26 is inserted between the first terminal piece 11 of the second terminal plate 6A and the third locking spring 7A. At this time, the locking piece of the third chain spring 7A bites into the first power wire W2, preventing the first power wire W2 from being pulled out of the second wire insertion hole 26. In addition, the pressing piece of the third chain spring 7A presses the first power wire W2 against the first terminal piece 11 of the second terminal plate 6A, thereby electrically connecting the first power wire W2 to the second terminal plate 6A and the second blade receiving member 5A.

[0104] Furthermore, when a user (for example, a contractor) inserts the second power wire W2 into the other second wire insertion hole 26 located at the bottom of the second storage chamber 21A, the second power wire W2 inserted from the second wire insertion hole 26 is inserted between the second terminal piece 12 of the second terminal plate 6A and the fourth chain spring 8A. At this time, the locking piece of the fourth chain spring 8A bites into the second power wire W2, preventing the second power wire W2 from being pulled out of the second wire insertion hole 26. In addition, the pressing piece of the fourth chain spring 8A presses the second power wire W2 against the second terminal piece 12 of the second terminal plate 6A, thereby electrically connecting the second power wire W2 to the second terminal plate 6A and the second blade receiving member 5A.

[0105] When a user (for example, a contractor) inserts the first grounding wire W3 into one of the third wire insertion holes 27 located at the bottom of the third storage chamber 22, as shown in Figure 11, the first grounding wire W3 inserted from the third wire insertion hole 27 is inserted between the third terminal plate 16 and the fifth locking spring 18. At this time, the third locking piece 18a of the fifth locking spring 18 bites into the first grounding wire W3, preventing the first grounding wire W3 from being pulled out of the third wire insertion hole 27. In addition, the third pressing piece 18b of the fifth locking spring 18 presses the first grounding wire W3 against the third terminal plate 16, thereby electrically connecting the first grounding wire W3 to the third terminal plate 16 and the third blade receiving member 15.

[0106] Here, the front end of the third terminal plate 16 is curved upward (in the positive Z-axis direction in Figure 11), which prevents the tip of the first grounding wire W3 from protruding forward (in the positive X-axis direction in Figure 11).

[0107] Furthermore, when a user (for example, a contractor) inserts the second grounding wire W3 into the other third wire insertion hole 27 located at the bottom of the third storage chamber 22, as shown in Figure 11, the second grounding wire W3 inserted from the third wire insertion hole 27 is inserted between the fourth terminal plate 17 and the sixth locking spring 19. At this time, the fourth locking piece 19a of the sixth locking spring 19 bites into the second grounding wire W3, preventing the second grounding wire W3 from being pulled out of the third wire insertion hole 27. In addition, the fourth pressing piece 19b of the sixth locking spring 19 presses the second grounding wire W3 against the fourth terminal plate 17, thereby electrically connecting the second grounding wire W3 to the fourth terminal plate 17 and the third blade receiving member 15.

[0108] Here, the front end of the fourth terminal board 17 is curved upward (in the positive Z-axis direction in Figure 11), which prevents the tip of the first ground wire W3 from protruding forward (in the positive X-axis direction in Figure 11).

[0109] (3.2) Removing the Wires Next, we will explain how to remove the power wires W1 and W2 and the ground wire W3 from outlet 1.

[0110] When removing the first power wire W1 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal board 6 and the first locking spring 7, and the second power wire W1 held between the second terminal piece 12 and the second locking spring 8, the user (e.g., a contractor) pushes the first release button 14 forward with a tool such as a flathead screwdriver through the first release button hole 28 on the rear surface 4a of the body 4. When the first release button 14 is pushed forward by the force applied, it pushes the first locking piece 7a of the first locking spring 7 forward, causing the first locking piece 7a to bend away from the first power wire W1. At this time, the tip of the first locking piece 7a separates from the first power wire W1, making it possible to pull out the first power wire W1 and remove the first power wire W1 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal board 6 and the first locking spring 7.

[0111] Furthermore, when the first release button 14 is subjected to a pushing force and moves forward, the first release button 14 pushes the second locking piece 8a of the second locking spring 8 forward, causing the second locking piece 8a to bend away from the second power wire W1. At this time, the tip of the second locking piece 8a separates from the second power wire W1, making it possible to pull out the second power wire W1 and remove the second power wire W1 that is held between the second terminal piece 12 of the first terminal plate 6 and the second locking spring 8.

[0112] In this way, the first power wire W1 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the first terminal board 6 and the first locking spring 7, and the second power wire W1 held between the second terminal piece 12 of the first terminal board 6 and the second locking spring 8 can be removed simultaneously.

[0113] Furthermore, when removing the first power wire W2 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the second terminal plate 6A and the third locking spring 7A, and the second power wire W2 held between the second terminal piece 12 of the second terminal plate 6A and the fourth locking spring 8A, the user (e.g., a contractor) pushes the second release button 14A forward with a tool such as a flathead screwdriver through the second release button hole 28A on the rear surface 4a of the body 4. When the second release button 14A is pushed forward by the force, it pushes the locking piece of the third locking spring 7A forward, causing the locking piece to bend away from the first power wire W2. At this time, the tip of the locking piece separates from the first power wire W2, making it possible to pull out the first power wire W2 and remove the first power wire W2 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the second terminal plate 6A and the third locking spring 7A.

[0114] Furthermore, when the second release button 14A is subjected to a pushing force and moves forward, the second release button 14A pushes the locking piece of the fourth locking spring 8A forward, causing the locking piece to bend away from the second power wire W2. At this time, the tip of the locking piece separates from the second power wire W2, making it possible to pull out the second power wire W2, and thus removing the second power wire W2 that is held between the second terminal piece 12 of the second terminal plate 6A and the fourth locking spring 8A.

[0115] In this way, the first power supply wire W2 held between the first terminal piece 11 of the second terminal plate 6A and the third locking spring 7A, and the second power supply wire W2 held between the second terminal piece 12 of the second terminal plate 6A and the fourth locking spring 8A can be removed simultaneously.

[0116] Furthermore, when removing the first ground wire W3 held between the third terminal plate 16 and the fifth locking spring 18, and the second ground wire W3 held between the fourth terminal plate 17 and the sixth locking spring 19, the user (for example, a contractor) pushes the third release button 20 forward with a tool such as a flathead screwdriver through the third release button hole 29 on the rear surface 4a of the body 4. When the third release button 20 is pushed forward by the force applied, it pushes the third locking piece 18a of the fifth locking spring 18 forward, causing the third locking piece 18a to bend away from the first ground wire W3. At this time, the tip of the third locking piece 18a separates from the first ground wire W3, making it possible to remove the first ground wire W3 held between the third terminal plate 16 and the fifth locking spring 18.

[0117] Furthermore, when the third release button 20 is subjected to a pushing force and moves forward, the third release button 20 pushes the fourth locking piece 19a of the sixth locking spring 19 forward, causing the fourth locking piece 19a to bend away from the second grounding wire W3. At this time, the tip of the fourth locking piece 19a separates from the second grounding wire W3, making it possible to pull out the second grounding wire W3, and thus the second grounding wire W3 held between the fourth terminal plate 17 and the sixth locking spring 19 can be removed. In this way, the first grounding wire W3 held between the third terminal plate 16 and the fifth locking spring 18 and the second grounding wire W3 held between the fourth terminal plate 17 and the sixth locking spring 19 can be removed simultaneously.

[0118] (4) Effects In the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the first terminal plate 6 connected to the first blade receiving member 5 has a first terminal piece 11, a second terminal piece 12, and a third terminal piece 13. The first terminal piece 11, which holds the first power line W1 between itself and the first locking spring 7, and the second terminal piece 12, which holds the second power line W1 between itself and the second locking spring 8, are arranged opposite each other. As shown in Figure 4, the first locking spring 7, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the second locking spring 8 are arranged in a line along the short direction of the body 4 (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). This makes it possible to shorten the size of the body 4 in the long direction (the Z-axis direction in Figure 4). In other words, in the outlet 1, the quick-connect terminals for connecting the first power line W1 and the second power line W1 can be configured in a space-saving manner.

[0119] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5 and other figures, the first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 are arranged opposite each other with the first terminal plate 6 in between. The first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12, and the third terminal piece 13 are formed in a U shape by the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 being connected via the third terminal piece 13 (see Figure 9). This makes it easier to construct quick-connect terminals in a space-saving manner.

[0120] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the second terminal plate 6A connected to the second blade receiving member 5A has a shape that is mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane (XZ plane in Figure 4) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction in Figure 4) of the first terminal plate 6 and the body 4, and together with the third locking spring 7A and the fourth locking spring 8A, it constitutes a quick-connect terminal for connecting the first power line W2 and the second power line W2. On the second terminal plate 6A, a first terminal piece 11 that holds the first power line W2 between itself and the third locking spring 7A and a second terminal piece 12 that holds the second power line W2 between itself and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged opposite each other. As shown in Figure 4, the third locking spring 7A, the first terminal piece 11, the second terminal piece 12 and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged in a line along the short direction (Z axis direction in Figure 4) of the body 4. This makes it possible to shorten the size of the body 4 in the longitudinal direction (Z axis direction in Figure 4). In other words, the quick-connect terminals for connecting the first power line W2 and the second power line W2 in the outlet 1 can be configured in a space-saving manner. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to miniaturize the terminal structure of the outlet 1.

[0121] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A are arranged opposite each other in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (Y-axis direction in Figure 4). The first locking spring 7 and the second locking spring 8 are arranged opposite each other in the short direction of the body 4 (Z-axis direction in Figure 4), with the first terminal plate 6 in between. The third locking spring 7A and the fourth locking spring 8A are arranged opposite each other in the short direction of the body 4 (Z-axis direction in Figure 4), with the second terminal plate 6A in between. The third blade receiving member 15 is arranged between the second locking spring 8 and the fourth locking spring 8A in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (Y-axis direction in Figure 4). This makes it possible to miniaturize the outlet 1 to which a plug 300 (see Figure 3) having a pair of plug blades 301, 301 and a grounding pin 302 can be attached and detached.

[0122] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the third terminal plate 16 and the fourth terminal plate 17 are arranged on both sides of the third blade receiving member 15 in the longitudinal direction of the body 4 (Y-axis direction in Figure 4). The third terminal plate 16 is positioned opposite the fifth locking spring 18. The fourth terminal plate 17 is positioned opposite the sixth locking spring 19. The fifth locking spring 18 is positioned adjacent to the fourth locking spring 8A in the longitudinal direction of the body 4. The sixth locking spring 19 is positioned adjacent to the second locking spring 8 in the longitudinal direction of the body 4. Since the third terminal plate 16, which connects the first grounding wire W3, and the fourth terminal plate 17, which connects the second grounding wire W3, are separately connected on both sides of the third blade receiving member 15, the first grounding wire W3 and the second grounding wire W3 can be stably connected, respectively.

[0123] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7 and other figures, the first blade receiving member 5 and the second blade receiving member 5A each have a pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and a second blade receiving spring 52. The pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 are arranged facing each other. The second blade receiving spring 52 is arranged facing one side of the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51. As a result, the round pin type plug blade can be held by the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51, and the flat type plug blade can be held by one side of the pair of first blade receiving springs 51, 51 and the second blade receiving spring 52. In other words, the outlet 1 can be used as a so-called universal outlet.

[0124] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, each of the pair of plug blade insertion holes 31, 31 provided in the cover 3 is formed by connecting an insertion hole 31a for a round plug blade and an insertion hole 31b for a flat plug blade. This makes it possible to use the outlet 1 as a so-called universal outlet.

[0125] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, a support member 411 is positioned between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12. The support member 411 supports the tip of the first terminal piece 11 and the tip of the second terminal piece 12 in the direction in which the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 face each other (the Z-axis direction in Figure 5). This makes it difficult for the first terminal piece 11 to bend away from the first power line W1 when the first power line W1 is inserted between the first terminal piece 11 and the first locking spring 7. Also, when the second power line W1 is inserted between the second terminal piece 12 and the second locking spring 8, it makes it difficult for the second terminal piece 12 to bend away from the second power line W1. Therefore, the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 can more easily contact the first power line W1 and the second power line W1, respectively. This improves the connection stability of the first power line W1 and the second power line W1.

[0126] Furthermore, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, a part 14a of the first release button 14 is positioned between the third terminal piece 13 and the support member 411. When the first release button 14 is pressed from the rear of the body 4, a part 14a of the first release button 14 contacts the end face of the support member 411. This allows the entire first release button 14 to move forward.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, a first projection 11c is provided on the second main surface 11b of the first terminal piece 11. The first projection 11c protrudes toward the support member 411. A second projection 12c is provided on the second main surface 12b of the second terminal piece 12. The second projection 12c protrudes toward the support member 411. The first projection 11c and the second projection 12c are hemispherical projections, and the left end corner of the support member 411 is rounded. This makes it easier to insert the support member 411 into the space S1 between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 when assembling the outlet 1, compared to a configuration where the distance between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 and the width of the support member 411 are approximately equal.

[0128] The first projection 11c and the second projection 12c are hemispherical projections, but they may also be dowel-shaped.

[0129] (5) Modifications The above embodiments are only one of many embodiments of the present disclosure. The above embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of the present disclosure are achieved.

[0130] The following lists some modifications of the above embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0131] (5.1) Modification 1 In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, a first projection 11c is provided on the second main surface 11b of the first terminal piece 11, and a second projection 12c is provided on the second main surface 12b of the second terminal piece 12. In contrast, in Modification 1, as shown in Figure 12, the support member 411 has a third projection 411c on the first surface 411a facing the first terminal piece 11 that protrudes toward the first terminal piece 11, and a fourth projection 411d on the second surface 411b facing the second terminal piece 12 that protrudes toward the second terminal piece 12. The third projection 411c corresponds to the "first projection" in this disclosure, and the fourth projection 411d corresponds to the "second projection" in this disclosure. As a result, when assembling the outlet 1A, it becomes easier to insert the support member 411 into the space S1 between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12, compared to a configuration where the distance between the first terminal piece 11 and the second terminal piece 12 and the width of the support member 411 are approximately equal.

[0132] The third projection 411c and the fourth projection 411d are hemispherical projections, but they may also be dowel-shaped.

[0133] (Summary) Based on the embodiments described above, the following embodiments are disclosed.

[0134] The outlet (1,1A) of the first embodiment comprises a blade receiving member (5), a terminal board (6), a first locking spring (7), and a second locking spring (8). The blade receiving member (5) receives the plug blades (301) of the plug (300). The terminal board (6) is connected to the blade receiving member (5). The first locking spring (7) holds the first wire (W1) between itself and the terminal board (6). The second locking spring (8) holds the second wire (W1) between itself and the terminal board (6). The terminal board (6) has a first terminal piece (11), a second terminal piece (12), and a third terminal piece (13). The first terminal piece (11) is connected to the blade receiving member (5). The second terminal piece (12) faces the first terminal piece (11). The third terminal piece (13) connects the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12). The first terminal piece (11) is positioned opposite the first locking spring (7) and holds the first electric wire (W1) between itself and the first locking spring (7). The second terminal piece (12) is positioned opposite the second locking spring (8) and holds the second electric wire (W1) between itself and the second locking spring (8).

[0135] In this embodiment, a first terminal piece (11) that holds the first wire (W1) between itself and the first locking spring (7) and a second terminal piece (12) that holds the second wire (W1) between itself and the second locking spring (8) face each other. This makes it possible to construct quick-connect terminals for connecting the first wire (W1) and the second wire (W1) in a space-saving manner, and consequently enables miniaturization of the outlet (1, 1A).

[0136] In the second embodiment of the outlet (1, 1A), the first locking spring (7) and the second locking spring (8) are arranged opposite each other with the terminal plate (6) in between, as in the first embodiment.

[0137] This configuration makes it easier to construct quick-connect terminals in a space-saving manner.

[0138] In the third embodiment, the outlet (1, 1A) is formed in a U shape by connecting the first terminal piece (11), the second terminal piece (12), and the third terminal piece (13) in the first or second embodiment, with the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12) being connected via the third terminal piece (13).

[0139] This embodiment makes it easier to construct quick-connect terminals in a space-saving manner.

[0140] The outlet (1,1A) of the fourth embodiment has a rectangular parallelepiped shape in any one of the first to third embodiments, where the body (4) has a rectangular opening at the coupling surface with the cover (3). The body (4) houses a first blade receiving member (5), a first terminal plate (6), a first locking spring (7), a second locking spring (8), a second blade receiving member (5A), a second terminal plate (6A), a third locking spring (7A), a fourth locking spring (8A), and a third blade receiving member (15). The first blade receiving member (5) is a blade receiving member (5). The second blade receiving member (5A) has a shape that is mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first blade receiving member (5) and the body (4). The first blade receiving member (5) and the second blade receiving member (5A) are arranged opposite each other in the longitudinal direction of the body (4). The first terminal plate (6) is a terminal plate (6). The second terminal plate (6A) is connected to the second blade receiving member (5A) and has a shape that is mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first terminal plate (6) and the body (4). The first locking spring (7) and the second locking spring (8) are arranged opposite each other in the short direction, with the first terminal plate (6) in between. The third locking spring (7A) and the fourth locking spring (8A) are arranged opposite each other in the short direction, with the second terminal plate (6A) in between. The third blade receiving member (15) is a blade receiving member for the grounding pin. The third blade receiving member (15) is arranged between the second locking spring (8) and the fourth locking spring (8A) in the longitudinal direction.

[0141] According to this embodiment, the grounded outlet (1, 1A) can be miniaturized.

[0142] The outlet (1,1A) of the fifth embodiment, in the fourth embodiment, further houses a third terminal plate (16) and a fourth terminal plate (17) connected to a third blade receiving member (15), a fifth locking spring (18), and a sixth locking spring (19) in the body (4). The third terminal plate (16) and the fourth terminal plate (17) are arranged on both sides of the third blade receiving member (15) in the longitudinal direction of the body (4). The third terminal plate (16) is positioned opposite the fifth locking spring (18). The fourth terminal plate (17) is positioned opposite the sixth locking spring (19). The fifth locking spring (18) is positioned adjacent to the fourth locking spring (8A) in the longitudinal direction of the body (4). The sixth locking spring (19) is positioned adjacent to the second locking spring (8) in the longitudinal direction of the body (4).

[0143] In this embodiment, the third terminal board (16) for connecting the first grounding wire and the fourth terminal board (17) for connecting the second grounding wire are separately connected to both sides of the third blade receiving member (15) for the grounding pin, so that the first and second grounding wires can be stably connected.

[0144] The sixth embodiment of the outlet (1,1A) further comprises an outlet body (2) including a cover (3) and a body (4) in any one of the first to fifth embodiments. The cover (3) is provided with an insertion hole for the plug blades (301) of the plug (300). The body (4) is attached to the cover (3). The body (4) is provided with a support member (411) that supports the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12).

[0145] According to this embodiment, the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12) can be supported, making it easier for the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12) to come into contact with the first wire (W1) and the second wire (W1), respectively. This improves the connection stability of the first wire (W1) and the second wire (W1).

[0146] In the seventh embodiment of the outlet (1, 1A), in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, the support member (411) is positioned between the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12). The support member (411) supports the tip of the first terminal piece (11) and the tip of the second terminal piece (12) in the direction in which the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12) face each other.

[0147] According to this embodiment, when the first electric wire (W1) is inserted between the first terminal piece (11) and the first locking spring (7), the first terminal piece (11) becomes less likely to bend in the opposite direction to the first electric wire (W1). When the second electric wire (W1) is inserted between the second terminal piece (12) and the second locking spring (8), the second terminal piece (12) becomes less likely to bend in the opposite direction to the second electric wire (W1). This improves the connection stability between the first electric wire (W1) and the second electric wire (W1).

[0148] In the eighth embodiment of the outlet (1A), in the sixth or seventh embodiment, the support member (411) has a first surface (411a) facing the first terminal piece (11) provided with a first projection (411c) projecting toward the first terminal piece (11). The second surface (411b) facing the second terminal piece (12) is provided with a second projection (411d) projecting toward the second terminal piece (12).

[0149] In this embodiment, when assembling the outlet (1A), it becomes easier to insert the terminal board (6) into the support member (411) compared to a configuration in which the distance between the first terminal piece (11) and the second terminal piece (12) is approximately equal to the width of the support member (411).

[0150] The wiring device system (A1) of the ninth embodiment comprises one outlet (1, 1A) of any of the first to eighth embodiments, and a mounting frame (200) that can be attached to an object while holding the outlet (1, 1A).

[0151] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to provide a wiring device system (A1) equipped with a miniaturized outlet (1, 1A).

[0152] The configurations relating to the second to eighth aspects are not essential for the outlet (1, 1A) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0153] 1. 1A Outlet 2 Outlet body 3 Cover 4 Body 5 First blade receiving member 5A Second blade receiving member 6 First terminal board 6A Second terminal board 7 First locking spring 8 Second locking spring 7A Third locking spring 8A Fourth locking spring 11 First terminal piece 12 Second terminal piece 13 Third terminal piece 5 First blade receiving member 5A Second blade receiving member 6 First terminal board 6A Second terminal board 7 First locking spring 8 Second locking spring 15 Third blade receiving member 16 Third terminal board 17 Fourth terminal board 18 Fifth locking spring 19 Sixth locking spring 31 Plug blade insertion hole 32 Grounding pin insertion hole 411 Support member 411a First surface (support member) 411b Second surface (support member) 411c Third projection "First projection" 411d Fourth projection "Second projection" 200 Mounting frame 300 Plug 301 Plug blade 302 Grounding pin A1 Wiring device system W1 Power wire (First wire, Second wire) W2 Power wire (First wire, Second wire) W3 Grounding wire

Claims

1. An electrical outlet comprising: a blade receiving member for receiving the plug blades of a plug; a terminal plate connected to the blade receiving member; a first locking spring for holding a first electric wire between itself and the terminal plate; and a second locking spring for holding a second electric wire between itself and the terminal plate, wherein the terminal plate has a first terminal piece connected to the blade receiving member; a second terminal piece facing the first terminal piece; and a third terminal piece connecting the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece, the first terminal piece being positioned facing the first locking spring and holding the first electric wire between itself and the first locking spring, and the second terminal piece being positioned facing the second locking spring and holding the second electric wire between itself and the second locking spring.

2. The outlet according to claim 1, wherein the first locking spring and the second locking spring are arranged opposite each other with the terminal plate in between.

3. The outlet according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first terminal piece, the second terminal piece, and the third terminal piece are formed in a U shape by the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece being connected via the third terminal piece.

4. The outlet body further includes a cover provided with an insertion hole for the plug blades of the plug, and a body coupled to the cover, wherein the body has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a rectangular opening at the coupling surface with the cover, and houses a first blade receiving member which is the blade receiving member, a first terminal plate, a first locking spring, a second locking spring, a second blade receiving member, a second terminal plate, a third locking spring, a fourth locking spring, and a third blade receiving member, wherein the second blade receiving member has a shape that is mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first blade receiving member and the body, the first blade receiving member and the second blade receiving member are arranged opposite each other in the longitudinal direction of the body, the first terminal plate is the terminal plate, and the second terminal plate is connected to the second blade receiving member and has a shape that is mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the body. The outlet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first locking spring and the second locking spring are arranged opposite each other in the short direction of the body with the first terminal plate in between, the third locking spring and the fourth locking spring are arranged opposite each other in the short direction of the body with the second terminal plate in between, the third blade receiving member is a blade receiving member for a grounding pin, and the third blade receiving member is arranged between the second locking spring and the fourth locking spring in the longitudinal direction.

5. The outlet according to claim 4, wherein the body further houses a third terminal plate, a fourth terminal plate, a fifth locking spring, and a sixth locking spring, the third terminal plate and the fourth terminal plate are arranged on both sides of the third blade receiving member in the longitudinal direction of the body, the third terminal plate is arranged opposite to the fifth locking spring, the fourth terminal plate is arranged opposite to the sixth locking spring, the fifth locking spring is arranged adjacent to the fourth locking spring in the longitudinal direction of the body, and the sixth locking spring is arranged adjacent to the second locking spring in the longitudinal direction of the body.

6. The outlet according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising an outlet body including a cover having an insertion hole for the plug blades of the plug, and a body coupled to the cover, wherein the body is provided with a support member for supporting the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece.

7. The outlet according to claims 1 to 6, wherein the support member is positioned between the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece and supports the tip of the first terminal piece and the tip of the second terminal piece in the direction in which the first terminal piece and the second terminal piece face each other.

8. The outlet according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the support member is provided with a first projection on the first surface facing the first terminal piece, projecting toward the first terminal piece, and a second projection on the second surface facing the second terminal piece, projecting toward the second terminal piece.

9. A wiring device system comprising: an outlet according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a mounting frame that can be attached to an object while holding the outlet.

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