Connector

Abstract

Provided is a connector capable of suppressing poor contact with other terminals caused by resin burrs. A connector (100) is mounted on a substrate (300) and comprises: a resin body (1); and terminals (2, 5, 6) supported by the resin body (1). The terminals (2, 5, 6) each include an upper wall (50, 60) having a top surface (50a, 60a). The upper wall (50, 60) is exposed from the resin body (1) and faces an opposite mounting side (Z1) which is opposite to a mounting side (Z2) in a mounting direction (Z) of the connector (100). First grooves (21) are provided between the resin body (1) and the upper wall (50, 60) in directions (X, Y) orthogonal to the mounting direction (Z).

Description

Connector

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a connector. According to Patent Document 1, the connector includes a resin main body member and various terminals supported by the resin main body member. The connector is fitted with another connector. Through the fitting, the terminal of one connector comes into contact with the terminal of the other connector.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2023-111018

[0004] A connector is generally formed by setting various terminals in a predetermined mold and pouring liquid resin, which is a raw material for the resin main body member, into the mold. That is, the connector is formed by so-called insert molding. During insert molding, the liquid resin may flow onto the exposed surface of the terminal, forming resin burrs on the surface. Resin burrs can particularly occur when the shape of the terminal does not match the shape of the mold in which the terminal is set due to manufacturing tolerances or the like. In the connector described in Patent Document 1, the resin main body member and the various terminals are in close contact with each other without any gap formed therebetween. For this reason, in the connector described in Patent Document 1, resin burrs may be formed on the terminals. In particular, if a resin burr is formed on the top surface of a terminal, poor contact with a terminal of another connector on the top surface may occur when fitting with the other connector.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a connector that can suppress poor contact with other terminals caused by resin burrs.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a connector mounted on a substrate, including: a resin main body; and a terminal supported by the resin main body, wherein the terminal includes an upper wall having a top surface that faces a non-mounting side opposite to a mounting side in a mounting direction of the connector and is exposed from the resin main body, and a first groove is provided between the resin main body and the upper wall in a direction orthogonal to the mounting direction.

[0007] According to the connector of this disclosure, a first groove is provided between the upper wall of the terminal and the resin body. The first groove is realized by having a wall in the mold that is approximately the same size as the first groove. During insert molding, the liquid resin is less likely to flow onto the top surface of the terminal due to this wall. Therefore, resin burrs are less likely to form on the top surface of the terminal. Furthermore, even if resin burrs do occur, they are more likely to form in the first groove. As a result, poor contact with other terminals caused by resin burrs can be suppressed.

[0008] This is a perspective view of the connector according to the first embodiment. This is a perspective view of the ground terminal according to the first embodiment. This is an enlarged view of area III shown in Figure 1. This is an enlarged view of area IV shown in Figure 1. This is an enlarged view of area V shown in Figure 1. This is a perspective view of the connector according to the second embodiment. This is a side view of the signal terminal according to the second embodiment. This is an enlarged view of area VIII shown in Figure 6.

[0009] Hereinafter, connectors according to the embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0010] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a connector 100 according to the first embodiment. The connector 100 is a so-called female connector. The connector 100 is mounted, i.e., connected to the substrate 300. The connector 100 is a component for electrically connecting the substrate 300 on which the connector 100 is mounted to another substrate on which a male connector (not shown) configured to mate with the connector 100 is mounted.

[0011] The direction in which the connector 100 is mounted on the circuit board 300 is called the mounting direction Z. When viewed from the mounting direction Z, the connector 100 is approximately rectangular. The direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z and along the long side of the connector 100 is called the long side direction X. The direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z and the long side direction X, that is, along the short side of the connector 100, is called the short side direction Y. In addition, the side of the connector 100 facing the circuit board 300 in the mounting direction Z is called the mounting side Z2 (lower side in Figure 1), and the opposite side of the mounting side Z2 is called the non-mounting side Z1 (upper side in Figure 1). In the long side direction X, one side is called the left side X2 (left side in Figure 1), and the other side is called the right side X1 (right side in Figure 1). In the short side direction Y, one side is called the back side Y1 (upper left side in Figure 1), and the other side is called the front side Y2 (lower right side in Figure 1).

[0012] The connector 100 comprises a resin body 1 and various terminals 2 supported by the resin body 1. The various terminals 2 include a ground terminal 3 and a signal terminal 4.

[0013] The resin body 1 has a frame portion 10, a projection portion 11, and a bottom portion 12. The resin body 1 contains a resin material and has insulating properties.

[0014] The bottom portion 12 is the part that contacts the substrate 300. When viewed from the mounting direction Z, the bottom portion 12 is approximately rectangular.

[0015] The frame portion 10 is an annular portion that rises from the bottom portion 12 toward the non-mounting side Z1. The frame portion 10 constitutes the outer shape of the connector 100. That is, when viewed from the mounting direction Z, the frame portion 10 is approximately rectangular. The frame portion 10 includes a pair of long side portions 10a extending in the long side direction X and a pair of short side portions 10b extending in the short side direction Y.

[0016] The projection 11 is a roughly rectangular portion that rises from the bottom 12 toward the non-mounting side Z1 on the inside of the frame 10 as viewed from the mounting direction Z. The long side of the projection 11 extends in the long side direction X, and the short side of the projection 11 extends in the short side direction Y. The projection 11 is connected to the frame 10 via the bottom 12. The projection 11 is not in contact with the frame 10.

[0017] The ground terminal 3 has a first ground terminal 5, a second ground terminal 6, and a third ground terminal 7. The ground terminal 3 is physically and electrically connected to the substrate 300. Specifically, the ground terminal 3 is connected to the ground potential of the substrate 300. The ground terminal 3 includes a conductive material, such as a copper-based material such as phosphor bronze. Such a terminal 3 may be a terminal other than a ground terminal, for example, a power terminal to which a power supply voltage is applied. Therefore, although terminal 3 is described as a ground terminal below, it may be replaced with a power supply terminal.

[0018] The first ground terminal 5 is supported on the long side portion 10a of the frame portion 10 of the resin body 1. Specifically, the first ground terminal 5 is attached to the left X2 end and the right X1 end of the long side portion 10a on the front side Y2, and to the left X2 end and the right X1 end of the long side portion 10a on the rear side Y1. In other words, the connector 100 is provided with four first ground terminals 5.

[0019] The second ground terminal 6 is supported on the short side portion 10b of the frame portion 10 of the resin body 1. Specifically, the second ground terminal 6 is attached approximately in the center of the short side direction Y of the short side portion 10b on the left side X2, and approximately in the center of the short side direction Y of the short side portion 10b on the right side X1. In other words, the connector 100 is provided with two second ground terminals 6.

[0020] The third ground terminal 7 is supported by a projection 11 of the resin body 1. Specifically, the third ground terminal 7 is attached to the left end X2 and the right end X1 of the projection 11, respectively. In other words, the connector 100 is provided with two third ground terminals 7.

[0021] The signal terminals 4 are supported on the long side portion 10a of the frame portion 10 of the resin body 1. Specifically, the signal terminals 4 are attached approximately in the center of the long side portion 10a on the front side Y2 and approximately in the center of the long side portion 10a on the back side Y1. More specifically, the signal terminals 4 are supported on the long side portion 10a between the first ground terminal 5 located on the left side X2 and the first ground terminal 5 located on the right side X1. Multiple signal terminals 4 are provided side by side in the long side direction X. The space between each signal terminal 4, and the space between each signal terminal 4 and each ground terminal 5-7 is filled with the resin body 1. Therefore, each signal terminal 4 is insulated from other signal terminals 4 and each ground terminal 5-7.

[0022] The signal terminal 4 is physically and electrically connected to the circuit board 300. Specifically, high-frequency signals are input and output to the signal terminal 4 from the circuit board 300. The signal terminal 4 contains a conductive material, such as a copper-based material like phosphor bronze.

[0023] The connector 100 in this embodiment is formed by so-called insert molding. The connector 100 is formed by setting the various terminals 2 described above in predetermined positions in a mold and pouring liquid resin, which is the raw material for the resin body 1, into the mold.

[0024] Next, we will describe the detailed structure of the ground terminal 3. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the ground terminal 3.

[0025] The ground terminal 3 further includes a ground terminal connection portion 8. The ground terminal connection portion 8 is the part that connects the two first ground terminals 5 and the one second ground terminal 6. Therefore, the first ground terminals 5 and the second ground terminal 6 are electrically and physically connected. In an alternative embodiment, the first ground terminals 5 and the second ground terminal 6 do not have to be electrically and physically connected.

[0026] The second ground terminal 6 and the third ground terminal 7 are electrically and physically connected via the bottom wall 65 of the second ground terminal 6, which will be described later. In an alternative embodiment, the second ground terminal 6 and the third ground terminal 7 do not need to be electrically and physically connected.

[0027] The first ground terminal 5 has an upper wall 50, an outer wall 51, an outer connecting wall 52, an inner wall 53, an inner connecting wall 54, and a bottom wall 55.

[0028] The upper wall 50 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The upper wall 50 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The upper wall 50 is exposed to the non-mounting side Z1 and includes a top surface 50a facing the non-mounting side Z1.

[0029] In this specification, the upper wall of a terminal is the part of the terminal located furthest from the mounting side Z1, and the upper wall contains a vector in the normal vector of the top surface that is parallel to the mounting direction Z.

[0030] The outer wall 51 is the portion exposed to the outside of the resin body 1. Specifically, the outer wall 51 on the front side Y2 is exposed to the front side Y2, and the outer wall 51 on the back side Y1 (not shown) is exposed to the back side Y1. The outer wall 51 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the short side direction Y. The outer wall 51 faces outward from the resin body 1 and includes an outer surface 51a that is exposed from the resin body 1. In addition, the surface of the outer wall 51 facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0031] In this specification, the outside of the resin body 1 means the outside of the frame portion 10 when viewed from the mounting direction Z. The inside of the resin body 1 means the inside of the frame portion 10 when viewed from the mounting direction Z.

[0032] The outer surface 51a has a convex portion 51b, a curved portion 51c, a first straight portion 51d, and a second straight portion 51e. In other words, the convex portion 51b, the curved portion 51c, the first straight portion 51d, and the second straight portion 51e constitute the edge portion of the outer surface 51a.

[0033] In the example shown in Figure 2, the first straight section 51d is the edge portion of the outer wall 51 on the non-mounting side Z1 and the mounting side Z2, and extends in the long side direction X. The second straight section 51e is the edge portion of the right side X1 of the outer wall 51, and extends in the mounting direction Z. The right side X1 end of the first straight section 51d on the non-mounting side Z1 is connected to the end of the second straight section 51e on the non-mounting side Z1.

[0034] The curved portion 51c is an edge portion that curves convexly toward the resin body 1, i.e., the long side portion 10a, adjacent to the outer wall 51 in the long side direction X, as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. In other words, the curved portion 51c is a portion that curves outward in the long side direction X (to the right X1 or left X2) as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. The curved portion 51c on the right side X1 curves toward the right side X1 as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. The curved portion 51c on the left side X2 curves toward the left side X2 as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. The curved portion 51c is smoothly connected to both ends in the long side direction X of the first straight portion 51d on the mounting side Z2. The curved portion 51c on the right side X1 connects the end of the first straight portion 51d on the mounting side Z2 to the end of the second straight portion 51e on the mounting side Z2.

[0035] The convex portion 51b is an edge portion that protrudes toward the resin body 1, i.e., the long side portion 10a, adjacent to the outer wall 51 in the long side direction X. In other words, the convex portion 51b is a portion that protrudes in the long side direction X. The convex portion 51b is connected to the left end X2 of the first straight portion 51d on the non-mounting side Z1 and protrudes to the left X2 from that end. The convex portion 51b is connected to the left end X2 of the curved portion 51c on the left side X2 and protrudes to the left X2 from that end. The convex portion 51b and the curved portion 51c on the left side X2 are smoothly connected. The convex portion 51b has a first connecting portion 51ba that is connected to the first straight portion 51d on the non-mounting side Z1, a second connecting portion 51bb that is connected to the curved portion 51c on the left side X2, and a third connecting portion 51bc that connects the first connecting portion 51ba and the second connecting portion 51bb.

[0036] The first connecting portion 51ba curves concavely with respect to the resin body 1 at the connection point with the first straight portion 51d and extends to the left X2. In other words, the first connecting portion 51ba curves toward the mounting side Z2 as it approaches the left X2. The second connecting portion 51bb extends toward the non-mounting side Z1 from the connection point with the curved portion 51c, curves concavely with respect to the resin body 1 and extends to the left X2. In other words, the second connecting portion 51bb curves toward the non-mounting side Z1 as it approaches the left X2. The third connecting portion 51bc extends in the mounting direction Z, specifically from the left X2 end of the first connecting portion 51ba to the left X2 end of the second connecting portion 51bb.

[0037] The outer connecting wall 52 is the portion that smoothly connects the upper wall 50 and the outer wall 51. When viewed from the long side direction X, the outer connecting wall 52 is curved convexly toward the outside of the resin body 1 with a predetermined curvature radius. In other words, the outer connecting wall 52 is curved toward the back side Y1 or the front side Y2 with a predetermined curvature radius as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the outer connecting wall 52 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the front side Y2 is curved toward the back side Y1 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the outer connecting wall 52 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the back side Y1 is curved toward the front side Y2 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. The outer connecting wall 52 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z and has a predetermined thickness.

[0038] The inner wall 53 is the portion exposed to the inside of the resin body 1. Specifically, the inner wall 53 on the front side Y2 (not shown) is exposed to the rear side Y1, and the inner wall 53 on the rear side Y1 is exposed to the front side Y2. The inner wall 53 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the short side direction Y. The inner wall 53 faces inward of the resin body 1 and includes an inner surface 53a that is exposed from the resin body 1.

[0039] The inner connecting wall 54 is the portion that smoothly connects the upper wall 50 and the inner wall 53. When viewed from the long side direction X, the inner connecting wall 54 is curved inward towards the resin body 1 with a predetermined radius of curvature. In other words, the inner connecting wall 54 is curved with a predetermined radius of curvature towards the back side Y1 or the front side Y2 as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the inner connecting wall 54 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the front side Y2 is curved towards the front side Y2 as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the inner connecting wall 54 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the back side Y1 is curved towards the back side Y1 as it approaches the non-mounting side Z1. The inner connecting wall 54 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z and has a predetermined thickness.

[0040] The bottom wall 55 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The bottom wall 55 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The bottom wall 55 is located on the mounting side Z2 relative to the top wall 50. The bottom wall 55 is connected to the inner wall 53. The surface of the bottom wall 55 facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0041] The second ground terminal 6 has an upper wall 60, an outer wall 61, an outer connecting wall 62, an inner wall 63, an inner connecting wall 64, and a bottom wall 65.

[0042] The upper wall 60 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The upper wall 60 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The upper wall 60 is exposed to the non-mounting side Z1 and includes a top surface 60a facing the non-mounting side Z1.

[0043] The outer wall 61 is the portion exposed to the outside of the resin body 1. Specifically, the outer wall 61 on the left side X2 is exposed to the left side X2, and the outer wall 61 on the right side X1 (not shown) is exposed to the right side X1. The outer wall 61 extends in the short side direction Y and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the long side direction X. The outer wall 61 faces outward from the resin body 1 and includes an outer surface 61a that is exposed from the resin body 1. In addition, the surface of the outer wall 61 facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0044] The outer connection wall 62 is a portion that smoothly connects the upper wall 60 and the outer wall 61. When viewed from the short-side direction Y, the outer connection wall 62 curves convexly toward the outside of the resin body 1 with a predetermined curvature radius. In other words, the outer connection wall 62 curves toward the right side X1 or the left side X2 with a predetermined curvature radius as it goes toward the non-mounting side Z1. In FIG. 2, the outer connection wall 62 curves toward the right side X1 as it goes toward the non-mounting side Z1. The outer connection wall 62 extends in the short-side direction Y and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness.

[0045] The inner wall 63 is a portion exposed to the inside of the resin body 1. Specifically, the inner wall 63 on the left side X2 is exposed toward the right side X1, and the inner wall 63 (not shown) on the right side X1 is exposed toward the left side X2. The inner wall 63 extends in the short-side direction Y and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the long-side direction X.

[0046] The inner connection wall 64 is a portion that smoothly connects the upper wall 60 and the inner wall 63. When viewed from the short-side direction Y, the inner connection wall 64 curves convexly toward the inside of the resin body 1 with a predetermined curvature radius. In other words, the inner connection wall 64 curves toward the right side X1 or the left side X2 with a predetermined curvature radius as it goes toward the non-mounting side Z1. In FIG. 2, the inner connection wall 64 curves toward the left side X2 as it goes toward the non-mounting side Z1. The inner connection wall 64 extends in the short-side direction Y and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness.

[0047] The bottom wall 65 is a portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The bottom wall 65 extends in the long-side direction X and the short-side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The bottom wall 65 is located on the mounting side Z2 with respect to the upper wall 60. The bottom wall 65 is connected to the inner wall 63. The bottom wall 65 is also connected to the third ground terminal 7. A surface of the bottom wall facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0048] The third ground terminal 7 includes an upper wall 70, three outer walls 71, and three outer connection walls 72.

[0049] The upper wall 70 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The upper wall 70 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The upper wall 70 is exposed to the non-mounting side Z1 and includes a top surface 70a facing the non-mounting side Z1.

[0050] The outer wall 71 is the portion that is exposed to the outside from the resin body 1. In the example shown in Figure 2, the three outer walls 71 are exposed on the left side X2, the rear side Y1, and the front side Y2, respectively. The outer wall 71 extends in the mounting direction Z and has a predetermined thickness. The outer wall 71 faces outward from the resin body 1 and includes an outer surface 71a that is exposed from the resin body 1.

[0051] The outer connecting wall 72 is the portion that smoothly connects the upper wall 70 and the outer wall 71. The outer connecting wall 72 is curved convexly toward the outside of the resin body 1 with a predetermined curvature radius. In other words, the outer connecting wall 72 is curved with a predetermined curvature radius toward the right X1, left X2, rear Y1, or front Y2 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the outer connecting wall 72 located on the front Y2 is curved toward the rear Y1 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the outer connecting wall 72 located on the rear Y1 is curved toward the front Y2 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. In Figure 2, the outer connecting wall 72 located on the left X2 is curved toward the right X1 as it moves toward the non-mounting side Z1. The outer connecting wall 72 extends in the mounting direction Z and has a predetermined thickness.

[0052] Next, with reference to Figure 3-5, the details of the groove provided between the ground terminal 3 and the resin body 1 will be explained. Figure 3 is an enlarged view of area III in Figure 1. Area III is the area surrounding the upper wall 50, outer wall 51, and outer connecting wall 52 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the left side X2 and the front side Y2, and the long side portion 10a of the resin body 1 adjacent to the first ground terminal 5. In this embodiment, the configuration of the groove provided between each first ground terminal 5 and the resin body 1 is the same. Below, with reference to the first ground terminal 5 located on the left side X2 and the front side Y2 shown in Figure 3, the details of the groove provided between the upper wall 50, outer wall 51, and outer connecting wall 52 and the resin body 1 will be explained.

[0053] As shown in Figure 3, grooves 21-23 are provided between the first ground terminal 5 and the resin body 1 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. Specifically, a first groove 21 is provided between the upper wall 50 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X. A second groove 22 is provided between the outer wall 51 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X. A third groove 23 is provided between the outer connecting wall 52 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X.

[0054] A direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z is a direction that lies on a plane perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. Therefore, the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z includes not only the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, but also any direction that lies on the plane defined by the long side direction X and the short side direction Y.

[0055] Such grooves can be realized by a mold for insert molding the connector 100. Specifically, the mold has walls in the area where the groove is intended to be formed in the connector 100 that are approximately the same size as the groove, to prevent liquid resin from entering that area. The width of the walls is slightly smaller than the width of the groove, and the height of the walls is approximately the same as the depth of the groove.

[0056] The width and depth of such grooves are set within a range that does not reduce the strength of the resin body 1. For example, the groove width is 0.01 mm and the groove depth is 0.01 mm. For example, it is preferable that the groove depth is smaller than the curvature radius of the outer connecting wall 52 (e.g., 0.1 mm).

[0057] The first grooves 21 are provided between the left edge X2 of the upper wall 50 and the long side portion 10a, and between the right edge X1 of the upper wall 50 and the long side portion 10a. Specifically, the first grooves 21 are defined between the left side X2 (or right side X1) of the upper wall 50 and the long side portion 10a facing that side. Each first groove 21 extends in the short side direction Y. Specifically, each first groove 21 extends along the right edge X1 and the left edge X2 of the upper wall 50. More specifically, each first groove 21 extends from the rear end Y1 of the upper wall 50 to the front end Y2.

[0058] During insert molding, the liquid resin that flows is more likely to flow into the internal space of the mold where the resin body 1 is formed, due to the presence of the mold walls mentioned above, and therefore less likely to flow toward the top surface 50a. As a result, resin burrs are less likely to form on the top surface 50a. Furthermore, because the first groove 21 is provided, any resin burrs that do occur are more likely to form in the first groove 21. As a result, poor contact with, for example, the terminals of a male connector can be suppressed.

[0059] Furthermore, the surface of the upper wall 50 facing the mounting side Z2 is in close contact with the resin body 1, that is, the long side portion 10a.

[0060] The second groove 22 is provided between one edge of the outer wall 51 in the long side direction X and the long side portion 10a. In the example shown in Figure 3, the second groove 22 is provided between the right edge X1 of the outer wall 51 and the long side portion 10a. Specifically, the second groove 22 is defined between the surface of the outer wall 51 facing the right side X1 and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface. The second groove 22 is not provided between the surface of the outer wall 51 facing the left side X2 and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface.

[0061] The second groove 22 extends in the mounting direction Z. Specifically, the second groove 22 extends along the second linear portion 51e of the outer wall 51. More specifically, the second groove 22 extends from the end of the second linear portion 51e on the non-mounting side Z1 to the end on the mounting side Z2. Therefore, the mounting side Z2 end of the second groove 22 is located on the non-mounting side Z1 relative to the mounting side Z2 end of the outer wall 51. In other words, the second groove 22 does not extend to the mounting side Z2 end of the outer wall 51.

[0062] The outer surface 51a of the outer wall 51 is a surface that can come into contact with terminals of other connectors, etc., through mating. If a resin burr is formed on the outer surface 51a, the burr may be scraped off during mating. The detached burr may adversely affect the substrate on which the connector is mounted. Therefore, it is undesirable for a resin burr to be formed on the outer surface 51a.

[0063] In this embodiment, since the second groove 22 is provided, resin burrs are less likely to occur and are less likely to form on the outer surface 51a for the same reasons as the effect of the first groove 21.

[0064] In the example shown in Figure 3, there is no groove between the left edge X2 of the outer wall 51 (i.e., the convex portion 51b and the left curved portion 51c) and the long side portion 10a. Similarly, there is no groove between the curved portion 51c of the right side X1 of the outer wall 51 and the long side portion 10a. In other words, the left edge X2 of the outer wall 51 and the long side portion 10a are in close contact, and the curved portion 51c of the right side X1 of the outer wall 51 and the long side portion 10a are also in close contact.

[0065] When mounting the connector 100 onto the circuit board 300, the mounting-side edge Z2 of the outer wall 51 is fixed to the circuit board 300 by soldering. During soldering, flux is applied to the mounting-side edge Z2 of the outer wall 51 to promote soldering. Due to capillary action, the flux may move through the left X2 and right X1 edges of the outer wall 51 to the non-mounting side Z1 and reach the top surface 50a of the upper wall 50. Such flux movement is called flux rise. Flux rise is undesirable because it can cause poor contact between terminals.

[0066] In this embodiment, since the mounting-side end Z2 of the second groove 22 is located on the opposite mounting-side Z1 relative to the mounting-side end Z2 of the outer wall 51, flux applied to the mounting-side edge Z2 of the outer wall 51 is less likely to move to the opposite mounting-side Z1 via the second groove 22. Furthermore, because the outer surface 51a has a convex portion 51b, the path for the flux to reach the top surface 50a is longer than in the case where the outer surface 51a is a rectangle without a convex portion 51b. Moreover, because the outer surface 51a has a curved portion 51c, this path is longer than in the case where the outer surface 51a is a right-angled rectangle without a curved portion 51c. Therefore, according to this embodiment, flux is less likely to reach the top surface 50a. As a result, flux rise can be suppressed.

[0067] In another embodiment, the outer surface 51a may have a shape that is recessed in the long-side direction X relative to the resin body 1, i.e., a recessed portion. Even with the recessed portion, a path can be secured for the flux to reach the top surface 50a. From the viewpoint of ensuring a sufficient area for the outer surface 51a to contact other terminals, it is preferable that the outer surface 51a has a convex portion 51b.

[0068] The third grooves 23 are provided between the left edge X2 of the outer connecting wall 52 and the long side portion 10a, and between the right edge X1 of the outer connecting wall 52 and the long side portion 10a. Specifically, the third grooves 23 are defined between the surface of the outer connecting wall 52 facing the left X2 (or right X1) and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface. Each third groove 23 extends along the respective edges of the right X1 and left X2 of the outer connecting wall 52. The third groove 23 on the left X2 is connected to the first groove 21 on the left X2. The third groove 23 on the right X1 is connected to the first groove 21 and the second groove 22 on the right X1. In other words, the first groove 21 and the second groove 22 on the right X1 are connected via the third groove 23 on the right X1. In other words, the third groove 23 and the first groove 21 of the left side X2 are formed continuously, and the third groove 23, the first groove 21, and the second groove 22 of the right side X1 are formed continuously.

[0069] The outer connecting wall 52 is a portion that cannot be mated with other terminals. By forming the third groove 23 in a continuous manner with the other grooves 21 and 22, resin burrs formed in the other grooves 21 and 22 can be guided into the third groove 23. This makes it possible to suppress problems such as poor contact caused by the generation of resin burrs.

[0070] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of region IV in Figure 1. Region IV is the area surrounding the upper wall 50, inner wall 53, inner connecting wall 54, and bottom wall 55 of the first ground terminal 5 located on the left side X2 and at the rear Y1, and the long side portion 10a and bottom portion 12 of the resin body 1 adjacent to the first ground terminal 5. In the following, referring to the first ground terminal 5 located on the left side X2 and at the rear Y1 as shown in Figure 4, the details of the groove provided between the upper wall 50, inner wall 53, inner connecting wall 54, and bottom wall 55 and the resin body 1 will be explained.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4, further grooves 24-26 are provided between the first ground terminal 5 and the resin body 1 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. Specifically, a fourth groove 24 is provided between the inner wall 53 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X. A fifth groove 25 is provided between the inner connecting wall 54 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X or the short side direction Y. A sixth groove 26 is provided between the bottom wall 55 and the bottom portion 12 in the long side direction X.

[0072] The fourth groove 24 is provided between one edge of the inner wall 53 in the long side direction X and the long side portion 10a. In the example shown in Figure 4, the fourth groove 24 is provided between the right edge X1 of the inner wall 53 and the long side portion 10a. Specifically, the fourth groove 24 is defined between the surface of the inner wall 53 facing the right side X1 and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface. The fourth groove 24 is not provided between the surface of the inner wall 53 facing the left side X2 and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface.

[0073] The fourth groove 24 extends in the mounting direction Z. Specifically, the fourth groove 24 extends along the right edge X1 of the inner wall 53. More specifically, the fourth groove 24 extends from the connection point between the inner wall 53 and the inner connecting wall 54 to the connection point between the inner wall 53 and the bottom wall 55. The fourth groove 24 is connected to the sixth groove 26 between the bottom wall 55 and the bottom 12.

[0074] The inner surface 53a of the inner wall 53 is a surface that can come into contact with terminals of other connectors, etc., through mating. Therefore, for the same reasons as with the outer surface 51a, it is undesirable for resin burrs to form on the inner surface 53a. In this embodiment, since the fourth groove 24 is provided, for the same reasons as with the effect of the first groove 21, resin burrs are less likely to occur and are less likely to form on the inner surface 53a.

[0075] The fifth groove 25 is provided between the left edge X2 of the inner connecting wall 54 and the long side portion 10a, and between the right edge X1 of the inner connecting wall 54 and the long side portion 10a. Each fifth groove 25 extends along the respective edges of the right X1 and left X2 of the inner connecting wall 54. The fifth groove 25 on the left X2 is connected to the first groove 21 on the left X2. The fifth groove 25 on the right X1 is connected to the first groove 21 and the fourth groove 24 on the right X1. In other words, the first groove 21 and the fourth groove 24 on the right X1 are connected via the fifth groove 25 on the right X1. The fifth groove 25 and the first groove 21 on the left X2 are formed continuously, and the fifth groove 25, the first groove 21, the fourth groove 24, and the sixth groove 26 on the right X1 are formed continuously.

[0076] Referring also to Figure 3, on the left side X2, the grooves are formed continuously from the front side Y2 in the order of the third groove 23, the first groove 21, and the fifth groove 25. On the right side X1, the grooves are formed continuously from the front side Y2 in the order of the second groove 22, the third groove 23, the first groove 21, the fifth groove 25, the fourth groove 24, and the sixth groove 26.

[0077] In this way, by forming the fifth groove 25 in a continuous manner with the other grooves 21-26, burrs of resin formed in the other grooves 21-26 can be guided into the fifth groove 25. This makes it possible to suppress problems such as poor contact caused by the generation of resin burrs.

[0078] The sixth groove 26 is provided between the right edge X1 of the bottom wall 55 and the bottom portion 12. Specifically, the sixth groove 26 is defined between the surface of the bottom wall 55 facing the right edge X1 and the surface of the bottom portion 12 facing that surface. The sixth groove 26 extends in the short-side direction Y. Specifically, the sixth groove 26 extends along the right edge X1 of the bottom wall 55. More specifically, the sixth groove 26 extends from the rear end Y1 of the bottom wall 55 to the front end Y2.

[0079] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of region V in Figure 1. Region V is the area surrounding the upper wall 60, outer connecting wall 62, and inner connecting wall 64 of the second ground terminal 6 located on the left side X2, and the short side portion 10b of the resin body 1 adjacent to the second ground terminal 6. In this embodiment, the configuration of the groove provided between each second ground terminal 6 and the resin body 1 is the same. In the following, the details of the groove provided between the upper wall 60, outer connecting wall 62, and inner connecting wall 64 and the resin body 1 will be explained with reference to the second ground terminal 6 located on the left side X2 shown in Figure 5.

[0080] As shown in Figure 5, grooves 21, 23, and 25 are provided between the second ground terminal 6 and the resin body 1 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. Specifically, a first groove 21 is provided between the upper wall 60 and the short side portion 10b in the short side direction Y. A third groove 23 is provided between the outer connecting wall 62 and the short side portion 10b in the short side direction Y. A fifth groove 25 is provided between the inner connecting wall 64 and the short side portion 10b in the short side direction Y.

[0081] The first grooves 21 in the second ground terminal 6 are provided between the front edge Y2 of the upper wall 60 and the short side portion 10b, and between the rear edge Y1 of the upper wall 60 (not shown) and the short side portion 10b. Specifically, the first grooves 21 are defined between the surface of the upper wall 60 facing the front side Y2 (or rear side Y1) and the surface of the short side portion 10b facing that surface. Each first groove 21 extends in the long side direction X. Specifically, each first groove 21 extends along the front edge Y2 and the rear edge Y1 of the upper wall 60. More specifically, each first groove 21 extends from the left end X2 to the right end X1 of the upper wall 60.

[0082] By providing the first groove 21 in the second ground terminal 6, resin burrs are less likely to form and less likely to be formed on the top surface 60a for the same reasons as the effect of the first groove 21 in the first ground terminal 5. As a result, poor contact with the terminals of the male connector can be suppressed, for example.

[0083] Furthermore, the upper wall 60 of the second ground terminal 6 facing the mounting side Z2 is in close contact with the resin body 1, that is, the short side portion 10b.

[0084] The third groove 23 in the second ground terminal 6 is provided between the front edge Y2 of the outer connection wall 62 and the short side portion 10b, and between the rear edge Y1 of the outer connection wall 62 (not shown) and the short side portion 10b. Specifically, the third groove 23 is defined between the surface of the outer connection wall 62 facing the front side Y2 (or rear side Y1) and the surface of the short side portion 10b facing that surface. Each third groove 23 extends along the respective front edge Y2 and rear edge Y1 of the outer connection wall 62. The third groove 23 is connected to the first groove 21.

[0085] The fifth groove 25 in the second ground terminal 6 is provided between the front edge Y2 of the inner connecting wall 64 and the short side portion 10b, and between the rear edge Y1 of the inner connecting wall 64 (not shown) and the short side portion 10b. Specifically, the fifth groove 25 is defined between the surface of the inner connecting wall 64 facing the front side Y2 (or rear side Y1) and the surface of the short side portion 10b facing that surface. Each fifth groove 25 extends along the respective front edge Y2 and rear edge Y1 of the inner connecting wall 64. The fifth groove 25 is connected to the first groove 21.

[0086] Therefore, in the second ground terminal 6, the first groove 21, the third groove 23, and the fifth groove 25 are formed continuously.

[0087] In this way, by forming the grooves 21, 23, and 25 continuously in the second ground terminal 6, the resin burrs formed in the first groove 21 can be guided to the third or fifth grooves 23 and 25. This makes it possible to suppress problems such as poor contact caused by the generation of resin burrs.

[0088] In this embodiment, no grooves are provided between the outer wall 61, inner wall 63, and bottom wall 65 of the second ground terminal 6 and the resin body 1. These walls 61, 63, and 65 are in close contact with the resin body 1. In another embodiment, a second groove 22, a fourth groove 24, and a sixth groove 26 may be provided between the outer wall 61, inner wall 63, and bottom wall 65 of the second ground terminal 6 and the resin body 1.

[0089] In this embodiment, no groove is formed between the third ground terminal 7 and the projection 11 of the resin body 1. In an alternative embodiment, a groove may be formed between the third ground terminal 7 and the projection 11. For example, a first groove 21 may be formed between the upper wall 70 of the third ground terminal 7 and the projection 11. A second groove 22 may be formed between any or all of the three outer walls 71 and the projection 11. A third groove 23 may be formed between any or all of the three outer connecting walls 72 and the projection 11.

[0090] The connector 100 according to the first embodiment provides the following effects.

[0091] (1) The connector 100 comprises a resin body 1 and terminals 2, 5, and 6 supported by the resin body 1, and is mounted on a substrate 300. The terminals 2, 5, and 6 face the non-mounting side Z1 opposite to the mounting side Z2 in the mounting direction Z of the connector 100, and include upper walls 50 and 60 having top surfaces 50a and 60a that are exposed from the resin body 1. A first groove 21 is provided between the resin body 1 and the upper walls 50 and 60 in directions X and Y perpendicular to the mounting direction Z.

[0092] During insert molding, the liquid resin flows more easily into the internal space of the mold where the resin body 1 is formed, due to the mold wall forming the first groove 21, and therefore does not flow easily toward the top surfaces 50a and 60a. As a result, resin burrs are less likely to form on the top surfaces 50a and 60a. Furthermore, even if resin burrs do occur, they are more likely to form in the first groove 21. As a result, poor contact between the connector 100 and the terminals of other connectors that mate with it can be suppressed.

[0093] (2) Terminals 2, 5, and 6 include outer walls 51, 61 having outer surfaces 51a, 61a that face outward from the resin body 1 and are exposed from the resin body 1, and a second groove 22 is provided between the resin body 1 and the outer walls 51, 61 in directions X and Y perpendicular to the mounting direction Z.

[0094] As a result, resin burrs are less likely to form on the outer surfaces 51a and 61a.

[0095] (3) The second groove 22 extends in the mounting direction Z, and the mounting-side end Z2 of the second groove 22 is located on the opposite side Z1 to the mounting-side end Z2 of the outer wall 51.

[0096] As a result, the flux applied to the mounting-side edge Z2 of the outer wall 51 is less likely to move to the non-mounting-side Z1 via the second groove 22. This suppresses flux buildup.

[0097] (4) The outer surface 51a has a convex portion 51b that protrudes toward the adjacent resin body 1 in a direction X perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. As a result, the path for the flux to reach the top surface 50a is longer than when the shape of the outer surface 51a is a rectangle without the convex portion 51b. This suppresses flux leakage.

[0098] (5) The outer surface 51a has a curved portion 51c that curves toward the opposite side Z1 as it approaches the adjacent resin body 1 in a direction X perpendicular to the mounting direction Z.

[0099] As a result, the path for the flux to reach the top surface 50a is longer compared to the case where the shape of the outer surface 51a is a right-angled rectangle without a curved portion 51c. This helps to suppress flux rise.

[0100] (6) Terminals 2, 5, and 6 include outer connecting walls 52, 62 that connect the upper walls 50, 60 and the outer walls 51, 61, and a third groove 23 is provided between the resin body 1 and the outer connecting walls 52, 62 in directions X and Y perpendicular to the mounting direction Z.

[0101] (7) The first groove 21, the second groove 22, and the third groove 23 are formed in a continuous manner. As a result, resin burrs formed in the first and second grooves 21 and 22 can be guided to the third groove 23 in the outer connection wall 52, which cannot be mated with other terminals. This makes it possible to suppress problems such as poor contact caused by the generation of resin burrs.

[0102] (8) Terminal 2 includes the ground terminal 3. As a result, poor contact at the ground terminal 3 can be suppressed.

[0103] (9) The resin body 1 has a frame portion 10 which includes a short side portion 10b that extends in the short side direction Y perpendicular to the mounting direction Z, and a long side portion 10a that extends in the long side direction X perpendicular to the mounting direction Z and the short side direction Y, and the ground terminal 3 includes a first ground terminal 5 supported on the long side portion 10a.

[0104] As a result, poor contact at the first ground terminal 5 can be suppressed.

[0105] (10) The resin body 1 has a frame portion 10 which includes a short side portion 10b extending in the short side direction Y perpendicular to the mounting direction Z, and a long side portion 10a extending in the long side direction X perpendicular to the mounting direction Z and the short side direction Y, and the ground terminal 3 includes a second ground terminal 6 supported by the short side portion 10b.

[0106] As a result, poor contact at the second ground terminal 6 can be suppressed.

[0107] (11) Terminal 2 includes the power terminal. As a result, poor contact at the power terminal can be suppressed.

[0108] [Second Embodiment] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the connector 200 according to the second embodiment. The connector 200 according to the second embodiment differs from the connector 100 according to the first embodiment in that there is no groove formed between the ground terminal 3 and the resin body 1, and a groove is formed between the signal terminal 40 and the resin body 1.

[0109] Figure 7 is a side view of the signal terminal 40 according to the second embodiment. Figure 7 shows a side view of the signal terminal 40 located on the front side Y2, viewed from the long side direction X. The signal terminal 40 has an upper wall 41, an outer wall 42, an inner wall 43, a first bottom wall 44, a second bottom wall 45, and a connecting wall 46.

[0110] The upper wall 41 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The upper wall 41 is curved toward the non-mounting side Z1 with a predetermined radius of curvature. The upper wall 41 has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The upper wall 41 is exposed to the non-mounting side Z1 and includes a top surface 41a facing the non-mounting side Z1. The upper wall 41 is the portion of the signal terminal 40 that is closest to the non-mounting side Z1. The normal vector of the top surface 41a includes a vector parallel to the mounting direction Z.

[0111] The connecting wall 46 is the portion that connects the upper wall 41 and the first bottom wall 44. The connecting wall 46 extends from the front end Y2 of the upper wall 41 to the non-mounting side Z1. Since the connecting wall 46 is covered by the long side portion 10a, it is not exposed from the resin body 1.

[0112] The first bottom wall 44 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The first bottom wall 44 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The first bottom wall 44 is located on the mounting side Z2 relative to the upper wall 41. The first bottom wall 44 is connected to the mounting side Z2 end of the connecting wall 46. The surface of the first bottom wall 44 facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0113] The inner wall 43 is the portion exposed to the inside of the resin body 1. The inner wall 43 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the short side direction Y. The inner wall 43 is connected to the rear end Y1 of the upper wall 41.

[0114] The second bottom wall 45 is the portion exposed from the resin body 1 to the non-mounting side Z1. The second bottom wall 45 extends in the long side direction X and the short side direction Y, and has a predetermined thickness in the mounting direction Z. The second bottom wall 45 is located on the mounting side Z2 relative to the upper wall 41. The second bottom wall 45 is connected to the mounting side Z2 end of the inner wall 43. The surface of the second bottom wall 45 facing the mounting side Z2 is in contact with the substrate 300.

[0115] The outer wall 42 is the portion exposed to the outside of the resin body 1. The outer wall 42 extends in the long side direction X and the mounting direction Z, and has a predetermined thickness in the short side direction Y. The outer wall 42 is connected to the rear end Y1 of the second bottom wall 45.

[0116] Next, with reference to Figure 8, the details of the groove provided between the signal terminal 40 and the resin body 1 will be explained. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of area VIII in Figure 6. Area VIII is the area surrounding one signal terminal 40 located on the front side Y2 and the long side portion 10a of the resin body 1 adjacent to the signal terminal 40. In the second embodiment, the configuration of the groove provided between each signal terminal 40 and the resin body 1 is the same.

[0117] As shown in Figure 8, a groove 21 is provided between the signal terminal 40 and the resin body 1 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction Z. Specifically, a first groove 21 is provided between the upper wall 41 and the long side portion 10a in the long side direction X.

[0118] The first grooves 21 in the signal terminal 40 are provided between the left edge X2 of the upper wall 41 and the long side portion 10a, and between the right edge X1 of the upper wall 41 and the long side portion 10a. Specifically, the first grooves 21 are defined between the surface of the upper wall 41 facing the left X2 (or right X1) and the surface of the long side portion 10a facing that surface. Each first groove 21 extends in the short side direction Y. Specifically, each first groove 21 extends along the right edge X1 and the left edge X2 of the upper wall 41. More specifically, each first groove 21 extends from the rear end Y1 of the upper wall 41 to the front end Y2.

[0119] Since the first groove 21 is provided in the signal terminal 40, resin burrs are less likely to form on the top surface 41a of the upper wall 41, similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, according to the second embodiment, poor contact in the signal terminal 40 can be suppressed.

[0120] Furthermore, the connector relating to this disclosure is not limited to the configuration of the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0121] The connector 100 disclosed in the above embodiment is a female connector, but it may also be a male connector.

[0122] The grooves of this disclosure may be provided between all terminals supported by the resin body 1 and the resin body. Alternatively, the grooves of this disclosure may be provided only between any terminal at any location (for example, the second ground terminal 6 located on the left side X2) and the resin body 1.

[0123] In the above embodiment, the second groove 22 was provided on one side of the outer wall 51 in the long side direction X, but it may also be provided on both sides of the outer wall 51 in the long side direction X. That is, the second groove 22 may extend along the convex portion 51b.

[0124] 1: Resin body 10: Frame part 10a: Long side part 10b: Short side part 11: Protrusion part 21: First groove 22: Second groove 23: Third groove 24: Fourth groove 25: Fifth groove 26: Sixth groove 2: Terminal 3: Ground terminal 4, 40: Signal terminal 5: First ground terminal 6: Second ground terminal 7: Third ground terminal 50, 60, 70, 41: Top wall 50a, 60a, 70a, 41a: Top surface 51, 61, 71, 42: Outer wall 51a, 61a, 71a: Outer surface 51b: Convex part 51c: Curved part 52, 62, 72: Outer connecting wall 53, 63, 43: Inner wall 53a, 63a: Inner surface 54, 64: Inner connecting wall 55, 65: Bottom wall 300: Circuit board

Claims

1. A connector comprising a resin body and terminals supported by the resin body, which is mounted on a substrate, wherein the terminals face the non-mounting side opposite to the mounting side in the mounting direction of the connector and include an upper wall having a top surface that is exposed from the resin body, and a first groove is provided between the resin body and the upper wall in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the terminal includes an outer wall having an outer surface that faces outward from the resin body and is exposed from the resin body, and a second groove is provided between the resin body and the outer wall in the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein the second groove extends in the mounting direction, and the mounting-side end of the second groove is located on the opposite side of the mounting-side end of the outer wall.

4. The connector according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the outer surface has a convex portion that protrudes toward the adjacent resin body in the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction.

5. The connector according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the outer surface has a curved portion that curves toward the non-mounting side as it approaches the adjacent resin body in the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction.

6. The connector according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the terminal includes an outer connecting wall connecting the upper wall and the outer wall, and a third groove is provided between the resin body and the outer connecting wall in the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein the first groove, the second groove, and the third groove are formed in a continuous manner.

8. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the terminals include a ground terminal.

9. The connector according to claim 8, wherein the resin body has a frame portion including a short side portion extending in a short side direction perpendicular to the mounting direction and a long side portion extending in a long side direction perpendicular to the mounting direction and the short side direction, and the ground terminal includes a first ground terminal supported by the long side portion.

10. The connector according to claim 8, wherein the resin body has a frame portion including a short side portion extending in a short side direction perpendicular to the mounting direction and a long side portion extending in a long side direction perpendicular to the mounting direction and the short side direction, and the ground terminal includes a second ground terminal supported by the short side portion.

11. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the terminals include signal terminals.

12. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the terminals include power terminals.

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