CN116960674A

CN116960674A - Electric connection device

Info

Publication number: CN116960674A
Application number: CN202310446618.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 井上直; 松浦淳
Original assignee: JST Mfg Co Ltd
Current assignee: JST Mfg Co Ltd
Priority date: 2022-04-26
Filing date: 2023-04-24
Publication date: 2023-10-27
Also published as: JP2023161875A

Abstract

The invention provides an electric connection device, wherein a plug connector is jogged with a socket connector through a gap, and the damage of the socket connector relative to a mounting part of equipment and the damage of the socket connector can be restrained. The receptacle-side housing of the receptacle connector is provided with a receiving portion which is disposed on the rear side of the opening of the receptacle connector and has an inner wall which abuts against the end of the plug connector inserted into the opening. The receiving portion is provided with release portions on both sides in the width direction, which release forces acting from the ends of the plug connector. The release portion releases the force acting from the end of the plug connector by preventing abutment with the end of the plug connector to avoid transmission of the force acting from the end of the plug connector.

Description

Electric connection device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector fitted to the plug connector.

Background

Conventionally, when 2 devices are electrically connected for transmission of an electric signal or electric power, an electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector fitted and connected to the plug connector is used. A plug connector is attached to one of the 2 devices, and a receptacle connector is attached to the other of the 2 devices, and the 2 devices are electrically connected by fitting the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

The plug connector and the receptacle connector of the electrical connection device that electrically connects 2 devices typically have a plurality of contacts, respectively. In the plug connector and the receptacle connector, the plurality of contacts are arranged in a row along a width direction which is a direction perpendicular to a fitting direction which is a direction in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector are fitted. Therefore, the plug connector and the receptacle connector are each configured to extend in the width direction. In many cases, an electrical connection device for connecting 2 devices is not configured to allow only a specific plug connector and a specific receptacle connector to be mated, and is required to be capable of mating an unspecified plug connector and an unspecified receptacle connector. Such an electrical connection device is configured such that the plug connector is fitted into the opening of the receptacle connector with a gap set in the width direction interposed therebetween. As such an electrical connection device, for example, a structure disclosed in patent document 1 is known.

In the structure disclosed in patent document 1, the receptacle connector has a cylindrical housing forming an opening into which the plug connector is inserted, and a housing which is disposed inside the housing and holds a plurality of contacts. An inner wall is provided on the housing, which abuts against an end of the plug connector inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector. The inner wall of the housing of the receptacle connector, which abuts against the end of the plug connector, is provided so as to spread flat in the width direction, which is the direction in which the plurality of contacts held by the housing are arranged.

Prior art literature

Patent literature

Patent document 1: japanese patent No. 4368897 specification

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

In the structure disclosed in patent document 1, when the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector with a gap set in the width direction interposed therebetween, the plug connector may be inserted obliquely with respect to the opening of the receptacle connector and fitted. That is, in some cases, the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in a state in which the insertion direction of the plug connector toward the opening of the receptacle connector is inclined with respect to the fitting direction, which is the direction in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector are fitted.

As described above, when the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction, the tip end side end of the inserted plug connector contacts the inner wall of the housing on the inner side of the opening of the receptacle connector in an inclined state. In this case, the edge portion on the side of the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the inserted plug connector partially touches the portion near the end portion on the side of the width direction of the inner wall of the housing on the back side of the opening of the receptacle connector. In this way, when local contact occurs near one end portion in the width direction of the inner wall of the housing on the back side of the opening of the receptacle connector, a large load in the torsion direction rotating around the center position in the width direction is generated on the receptacle connector.

On the other hand, the plurality of contacts in the receptacle connector are not only electrically connected with the device to which the receptacle connector is mounted, but also mechanically fixedly connected with the device to which the receptacle connector is mounted. For example, in the structure disclosed in patent document 1, a plurality of contacts in a receptacle connector are mechanically fixedly connected to a substrate of a device on which the receptacle connector is mounted, respectively, by soldering. Therefore, when a local contact is made near one end portion in the width direction of the inner wall of the housing on the back side of the opening of the receptacle connector, and a large load in the torsion direction is generated on the receptacle connector, a large load is generated at the portion of the plurality of contacts fixed to the device.

When a torsional load is applied to the receptacle connector by local contact of the plug connector and a large load is applied to the contacts, damage may occur to the fixed portion between the contacts and the device, and the receptacle connector may be damaged with respect to the mounting portion of the device. For example, if the contacts of the receptacle connector are soldered to the board of the device, solder cracks may occur, and the receptacle connector may be damaged at the mounting portion of the receptacle connector to the board. Further, when a torsional load is generated on the receptacle connector due to a partial contact of the plug connector and a large load is generated on the contacts, there is a possibility that the housing holding the contacts fixed to the device is damaged, and the receptacle connector is broken.

In addition, the connection and disconnection operations are generally repeated for the device to which the plug connector is attached and the device to which the receptacle connector is attached. Accordingly, the plug connector is repeatedly inserted into and removed from the opening of the receptacle connector, and the fitting operation and the fitting releasing operation are repeatedly performed on the plug connector and the receptacle connector. Therefore, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector and the receptacle connector is repeated, a load in the twisting direction is repeatedly generated in the receptacle connector by the partial contact of the plug connector, and a large load is generated in the contacts. Therefore, damage to the fixed portion between the contact and the device may be accumulated by repeated fitting operations, and the socket connector may be easily damaged in the mounting portion of the device. Further, damage to the housing holding the contacts fixed to the device may accumulate due to repeated fitting operations, and the receptacle connector may be easily broken.

In view of the above-described circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide an electrical connection device in which a plug connector is fitted into an opening of a receptacle connector with a gap set in a width direction interposed therebetween, and in which breakage of the receptacle connector with respect to a mounting portion of a device can be suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector can also be suppressed.

Means for solving the problems

(1) An electrical connection device according to an aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object has a plug connector and a receptacle connector that is fitted and connected to the plug connector. In the electrical connection device according to the aspect of the invention, the receptacle connector includes a plurality of receptacle-side contacts and a receptacle-side housing that holds the plurality of receptacle-side contacts, an opening is provided in the receptacle connector through which the plug connector is inserted and fitted, the gap is set in a width direction, which is a direction in which the plurality of receptacle-side contacts are arranged, and the width direction is a direction perpendicular to a fitting direction, which is a direction in which the plug connector is fitted to the receptacle connector, a receiving portion is provided in the receptacle-side housing, the receiving portion is disposed on a rear side of the opening, and the receiving portion has an inner wall that abuts an end portion of the plug connector inserted into the opening, and release portions are provided on both sides in the width direction, the release portions release a force acting from the end portion of the plug connector inserted into the opening, and are configured to prevent the contact with the end portion of the plug connector from abutting against the end portion of the plug connector to prevent the force acting from the plug connector or release the force acting from the end portion of the plug connector from the end portion.

According to this structure, the receiving portion of the receptacle-side housing having the inner wall that abuts the end of the plug connector inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector is provided with the release portions that release the force acting from the end of the plug connector on both sides in the width direction. Therefore, when the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction, the widthwise edge portion of the end portion of the tip end side of the inserted plug connector faces the release portion of the receiving portion of the receptacle connector. That is, the edge portions of the edge portions on both sides in the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the plug connector inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in an inclined state are inclined toward the release portion of the receiving portion provided in the receptacle-side housing. Therefore, the widthwise edge portion of the front end side end portion of the plug connector inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in an inclined state is prevented from touching the inner wall of the receiving portion.

The release portion is configured to prevent contact with the end of the plug connector to prevent transmission of a force acting from the end of the plug connector or to alleviate the force acting from the end of the plug connector, thereby releasing the force acting from the end of the plug connector. Therefore, the force is not transmitted from the edge portion in the width direction of the end portion of the plug connector facing the tip end side of the release portion to the receptacle-side housing on the rear side of the opening of the receptacle connector, or the force is applied from the edge portion in the width direction of the end portion of the plug connector facing the tip end side of the release portion to the receptacle-side housing on the rear side of the opening of the receptacle connector in a relaxed state. Thus, the end portion of the plug connector is prevented from being partially touched to the vicinity of the end portion of the widthwise side of the receptacle-side housing on the rear side of the opening of the receptacle connector. Therefore, a load in a torsion direction that rotates about the center position in the width direction is suppressed from being generated in the receptacle connector. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact of the device to which the receptacle connector is attached is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, damage to the receptacle-side housing holding the receptacle-side contacts fixed to the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector is also suppressed.

Thus, according to the above configuration, even when the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction, the receptacle connector can be prevented from being damaged with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and the receptacle connector can be prevented from being damaged. Further, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector to the receptacle connector is repeated, the accumulation of damage in the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact and the device can be suppressed, and the breakage of the receptacle connector to the mounting portion of the device can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of damage to the receptacle-side housing holding the receptacle-side contacts fixed to the device, and also to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector.

Therefore, according to the above configuration, the electrical connection device in which the plug connector is fitted into the opening of the receptacle connector with the gap set in the width direction interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector.

(2) The release portion may be provided on both sides in the width direction of the receiving portion as a concave portion recessed toward the inner side of the opening, and the release portion may be configured to release the force from the end portion of the plug connector by preventing contact with the end portion of the plug connector so as to avoid transmission of the force from the end portion of the plug connector.

According to this structure, the releasing portion that releases the force from the end portion of the plug connector by preventing abutment with the end portion of the plug connector to avoid transmission of the force from the end portion of the plug connector can be constituted by a simple structure in which the receiving portion is formed at both sides in the width direction as concave portions recessed toward the inner side of the opening.

(3) Further, an electrical connection device according to an aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object has a plug connector and a receptacle connector that is fitted and connected to the plug connector. In the electrical connection device according to the aspect of the present invention, the plug connector includes a plurality of plug-side contacts and a plug-side housing holding the plurality of plug-side contacts, the plug connector is configured to be inserted into an opening provided in the receptacle connector with a gap set in a width direction, which is a direction in which the plurality of plug-side contacts are arranged, the width direction being a direction perpendicular to a fitting direction, which is a direction in which the plug connector is fitted to the receptacle connector, and an end portion of the plug-side housing on a tip end side inserted into the opening is provided with: an abutting portion that abuts against an inner wall of the opening of the receptacle connector on the inner side; and a release portion disposed on both sides in the width direction with respect to the abutting portion, the release portion being configured to release a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing abutment with the inner wall of the receptacle connector to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector or by relaxing the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector.

According to this configuration, the contact portion that contacts the inner wall of the inner side of the opening of the receptacle connector and the release portion that is disposed on both sides in the width direction of the contact portion and releases the force that acts from the inner wall of the receptacle connector are provided at the end portion of the front end side of the plug side housing that is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector. Therefore, when the plug connector is inserted into the opening of the receptacle connector in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction, one of the release portions provided on both sides in the width direction of the end portion of the plug-side housing of the plug connector faces the inner wall of the rear side of the opening of the receptacle connector. That is, of the release portions on both sides in the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the plug-side housing inserted in the opening of the receptacle connector in an inclined state, the release portion inclined toward the back side of the opening is directed toward the inner wall of the back side of the opening of the receptacle connector.

The release portion is configured to release the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing contact with the inner wall of the receptacle connector to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector or by relaxing the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector. Therefore, the force is not transmitted from the inner wall of the receptacle connector to one of the release portions on both sides in the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the plug connector facing the inner wall of the receptacle connector, or the force is applied from the inner wall of the receptacle connector to one of the release portions on both sides in the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the plug connector facing the inner wall of the receptacle connector in a relaxed state. Thus, the end portion of the plug connector is prevented from being partially touched to the vicinity of the end portion on the side of the inner wall on the inner side of the opening of the receptacle connector in the width direction. Therefore, a load in a torsion direction that rotates about the center position in the width direction is suppressed from being generated in the receptacle connector. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact of the device to which the receptacle connector is attached is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, damage to the receptacle-side housing holding the receptacle-side contacts fixed to the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector is also suppressed.

(4) The release portion may be provided so as to be recessed stepwise with respect to the contact portion on both sides in the width direction of the end portion of the plug-side housing on the tip end side inserted into the opening, toward the side opposite to the tip end side of the plug-side housing inserted into the opening, and the release portion may be configured to release a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing contact with the inner wall of the receptacle connector so as to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector.

According to this structure, the release portion that releases the force from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing contact with the inner wall of the receptacle connector to avoid transmission of the force from the inner wall of the receptacle connector can be configured with a simple configuration in which both sides in the width direction of the end portion on the front end side of the plug-side housing are formed as portions recessed stepwise toward the side opposite to the front end side.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrical connection device in which a plug connector is fitted into an opening of a receptacle connector with a gap set in a width direction interposed therebetween, and it is possible to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector with respect to a mounting portion of a device and also to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an electrical connection device according to embodiment 1 of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state in which a plug connector and a receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical connection device in a state where the plug connector and the receptacle connector are fitted and connected, fig. 2 (a) is a plan view, and fig. 2 (B) is a side view.

Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device, fig. 3 (a) is a sectional view of fig. 2 (a) taken toward a viewing position, and fig. 3 (B) is a sectional view of fig. 2 (a) taken toward a viewing position.

Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device, taken along line C-C of fig. 2 (B) in a position as viewed.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a receptacle connector, fig. 5 (a) is a perspective view, and fig. 5 (B) is a side view.

Fig. 6 is a sectional view of the receptacle connector, fig. 6 (a) is a sectional view of fig. 5 (B) taken along the D-D line and fig. 6 (B) is a sectional view of fig. 5 (B) taken along the E-E line.

Fig. 7 is a view showing a receptacle connector, fig. 7 (a) is a front view, fig. 7 (B) is a cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a) taken toward a viewing position in an F-F line, and fig. 7 (C) is a cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a) taken toward a viewing position in a G-G line.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting connection of the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting connection of the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connection device according to embodiment 2 of the present invention, showing a state in which a plug connector is fitted to a receptacle connector.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 3 of the present invention, showing a state in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 3, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an electrical connection device according to embodiment 4 of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state in which a plug connector and a receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 14 is a plan view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 4, showing a state in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 15 is a side view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 4, showing a state in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device of embodiment 4, and is a cross-sectional view of fig. 15 taken along the H-H line.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 4, and shows a state in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector are fitted and connected.

Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 4, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

Fig. 19 is a plan view of an electrical connection device according to embodiment 5 of the present invention, showing a state in which a plug connector and a receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 5, and shows a state in which the plug connector and the receptacle connector of the electrical connection device are not fitted and are not connected.

Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device according to embodiment 5, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector and the receptacle connector.

Description of the reference numerals

1. 2, 3, 4, 5: an electrical connection device; 11. 31: a plug connector; 12. 32: a receptacle connector; 13. 33: a plug-side contact; 14. 34: a plug-side housing; 14c, 34a: an end portion; 15. 37: a receptacle-side contact; 16. 38: a socket-side housing; 18. 39: an opening; 21: a receiving part; 21a, 40: an inner wall; 21b, 22, 23, 34c, 43: a release section; 34c: an abutting portion; c1, C2: a gap; x1: a fitting direction; x2: in the width direction.

Detailed Description

The mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention can be widely applied to various applications as an electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector fitted to the plug connector.

[ embodiment 1 ]

(outline structure of electric connection device)

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an electrical connection device 1 according to embodiment 1 of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state in which a plug connector 11 and a receptacle connector 12 of the electrical connection device 1 are not fitted and are not connected. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical connection device 1 in a state where the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted and connected, fig. 2 (a) is a plan view, and fig. 2 (B) is a side view. Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 1, fig. 3 (a) is a sectional view of fig. 2 (a) taken toward a viewing position, and fig. 3 (B) is a sectional view of fig. 2 (a) taken toward a viewing position. Fig. 4 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 1, and is a sectional view of the C-C line of fig. 2 (B) taken toward a viewing position. In fig. 3 and 4, a section of a part of the plug connector 11 and a section of the receptacle connector 12 in the electrical connection device 1 are shown. In fig. 3 and 4, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted.

Referring to fig. 1 to 4, the electrical connection device 1 includes a plug connector 11 and a receptacle connector 12 fitted to the plug connector 11, and is configured to electrically connect 2 devices (not shown). The plug connector 11 is mounted on one of the 2 devices to be electrically connected, and is mounted and fixed on a board (not shown) provided in the one device by soldering, for example. The plug connector 11 is provided with a plurality of plug-side contacts 13, and the plug connector 11 is mounted on the one device by soldering the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 to the substrate of the one device. The receptacle connector 12 is mounted on another device out of the 2 devices to be electrically connected, and is mounted and fixed on a board (not shown) provided in the other device by soldering, for example. The receptacle connector 12 is provided with a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 and a plurality of housings 17, and the receptacle connector 32 is mounted on the other device by soldering the receptacle-side contacts 15 and the housings 17 to the board of the other device. The 2 devices are electrically connected by connecting the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 in a state where the plug connector 11 is mounted to one of the 2 devices and the receptacle connector 12 is mounted to the other of the 2 devices.

Referring to fig. 1 to 4, the plug connector 11 is configured to have a plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and a plug-side housing 14. The plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are formed of a conductive metal material and are held by the plug-side housing 14. The plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are held in the plug-side housing 14 in a state of being extended in parallel with each other in the longitudinal direction and being arranged in 2 rows. The plug-side housing 14 is formed of an insulating synthetic resin material, and holds the plurality of plug-side contacts 13. The plug connector 11 is configured to be fitted to the receptacle connector 12.

Referring to fig. 1 to 4, the receptacle connector 12 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15, a receptacle-side housing 16, and a shell 17. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are formed of a conductive metal material and are held by the receptacle-side housing 16. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are held by the receptacle-side housing 16 in a state of being extended in parallel with each other in the longitudinal direction and being arranged in 2 rows. The receptacle-side housing 16 is formed of an insulating synthetic resin material, and holds the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15. The case 17 is formed of a conductive metal material, and is provided in a cylindrical shape covering the outer periphery of the receptacle-side housing 16. The receptacle connector 12 is provided with an opening 18 into which the plug connector 11 is fitted. The plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are connected by inserting the plug connector 11 into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 to perform fitting.

Next, a more detailed structure of the electrical connection device 1 will be described. In the following description, as shown by the two-end arrow X1, the two-end arrow X2, and the two-end arrow X3 in fig. 1 to 4 and the later-described drawings, the fitting direction X1, the width direction X2, and the height direction X3 in the electrical connection device 1 are defined.

The fitting direction X1 is a direction in which the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted. That is, the fitting direction X1 is parallel to the direction in which the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 when the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12.

The width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and is a direction in which the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are arranged in the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 in the fitted state. Therefore, in the plug connector 11, the width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are arranged in the plug-side housing 14. In the receptacle connector 12, the width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are arranged in the receptacle-side housing 16.

The height direction X3 is perpendicular to both the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2. Therefore, in the plug connector 11, the height direction X3 is perpendicular to both the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2. In the receptacle connector 12, the height direction X3 is also perpendicular to the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2.

(plug connector)

Referring to fig. 1 to 4, the plug connector 11 includes a plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and a plug-side housing 14 holding the plurality of plug-side contacts 13. The plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are each formed, for example, in a plate spring shape having a longitudinal direction, and are held by the plug-side housing 14 in a state in which the longitudinal direction extends along the fitting direction X1. The plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are held in the plug-side housing 14 in a state of extending parallel to each other along the fitting direction X1 and in a state of being aligned along the width direction X2. In the present embodiment, the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2.

The plug-side contacts 13 are configured to be electrically connected by contacting one end side in the longitudinal direction with the receptacle-side contacts 15 of the receptacle connector 12. The plug-side contacts 13 are connected to the board of the device to which the plug connector 11 is attached by soldering on the other end side in the longitudinal direction. The portion of each plug-side contact 13 on one end side in the longitudinal direction is disposed so as to be exposed inside the plug-side housing 14. A spring contact portion is provided at a portion of one end portion side in the longitudinal direction of each plug-side contact 13, and the spring contact portion contacts each receptacle-side contact 15 of the receptacle connector 12 when the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12.

The plug-side housing 14 is configured to hold the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and to be fitted to the receptacle connector 12 by being inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. The plug-side housing 14 is provided with a plurality of contact holding holes 19, and the plurality of contact holding holes 19 penetrate the interior of the plug-side housing 14 in the fitting direction X1. The plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are held by the plug-side housing 14 by pressing the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 into the plurality of contact holding holes 19 of the plug-side housing 14, respectively. Further, the plurality of contact holding holes 19 of the plug-side housing 14 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2, and the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2 in the plug-side housing 14 by pressing the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 into the plurality of contact holding holes 19 and holding them in the plurality of contact holding holes 19, respectively.

Further, an opening insertion portion 14a is provided in the plug-side housing 14, and the opening insertion portion 14a is a portion on one side in the fitting direction X1 and is a portion on the front end side inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. The opening insertion portion 14a has an outer peripheral shape substantially corresponding to the inner peripheral shape of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12, and the opening insertion portion 14a is provided to extend along the fitting direction X1. In addition, the dimension in the width direction X2 of the opening insertion portion 14a is set smaller than the dimension in the width direction X2 of the inner periphery of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Accordingly, referring to fig. 4, the opening insertion portion 14a is formed to be inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 with the gap C1 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween.

Further, referring to fig. 3, an insertion hole 14b is provided in the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14, and the insertion hole 14b opens toward the front end side of the opening insertion portion 14a inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. The insertion hole 14b is provided as a hole into which a contact holding portion 20, which will be described later, of the receptacle-side housing 16 disposed inside the opening 18 in the receptacle connector 12 is inserted when the opening insertion portion 14a is inserted into the opening 18. The contact holding portion 20 is provided as a portion for holding the receptacle-side contact 15 in the receptacle-side housing 16. The insertion hole 14b is provided as a hole extending in the fitting direction X1 inside the opening insertion portion 14a and expanding in the width direction X2. Inside the insertion hole 14b of the opening insertion portion 14a, a portion on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plug-side contact 13 is exposed. When the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12, the opening insertion portion 14a is inserted into the opening 18, and the contact holding portion 20 of the receptacle-side housing 16 is inserted into the insertion hole 14b of the opening insertion portion 14a inside the opening 18. The plug-side contacts 13 exposed in the insertion holes 14b of the opening insertion portion 14a are in contact with the receptacle-side contacts 15 held by the contact holding portion 20 of the receptacle-side housing 16.

Referring to fig. 1, 3 and 4, the tip end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a, which is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12, is provided so as to abut against a receiving portion 21, which is a part of the receptacle-side housing 16, on the rear side of the opening 18 when inserted into the opening 18. When the opening insertion portion 14a is inserted into the opening 18, the end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a abuts against the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18, whereby the plug connector 11 fitted to the receptacle connector 12 is positioned with respect to the receptacle connector 12 in the fitting direction X1.

(socket connector)

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the receptacle connector 12, fig. 5 (a) is a perspective view, and fig. 5 (B) is a side view. Fig. 6 is a sectional view of the receptacle connector 12, fig. 6 (a) is a sectional view of fig. 5 (B) taken along the D-D line and fig. 6 (B) is a sectional view of fig. 5 (B) taken along the E-E line. Fig. 7 is a view showing the receptacle connector 12, fig. 7 (a) is a front view, fig. 7 (B) is a cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a) taken toward a viewing position in an F-F line, and fig. 7 (C) is a cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a) taken toward a viewing position in a G-G line.

Referring to fig. 1 to 7, the receptacle connector 12 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15, a receptacle-side housing 16, and a shell 17. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are held by a receptacle-side housing 16, and the receptacle-side housing 16 is disposed inside a housing 17 and fixed to the housing 17. The case 17 is made of metal, is formed in a tubular shape so as to cover the outer periphery of the receptacle housing 16, and is provided so as to exert a protective function against the outside and a shielding function for shielding electromagnetic waves.

The receptacle connector 12 is configured to be fitted to the plug connector 11 and connected to the plug connector 11, and an opening 18 through which the plug connector 11 is inserted and fitted is provided in the receptacle connector 12 with a clearance C1 interposed therebetween. The opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 is formed as an opening of the housing 17, the housing 17 is provided in a cylindrical shape covering the receptacle-side housing 16, and the cylindrical housing 17 is opened on one side in the fitting direction X1 of the receptacle connector 12.

When the plug connector 11 is fitted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18. Referring to fig. 4, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 with the clearance C1 interposed therebetween. The clearance C1 is constituted as a clearance between the inner periphery of the opening 18 and the outer periphery of the opening insertion portion 14a in a state where the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. The gap C1 is set in the width direction X2.

The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 of the receptacle connector 12 are each formed, for example, in a plate shape extending in an elongated manner, have a longitudinal direction, and are held by the receptacle-side housing 16 in a state in which the longitudinal direction extends along the fitting direction X1. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are held by the receptacle-side housing 16 in a state of extending parallel to each other along the fitting direction X1 and in a state of being aligned along the width direction X2. In the present embodiment, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2.

Referring to fig. 3, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are provided with a contact portion 15a and a board connection portion 15b, respectively. In the receptacle-side contact 15, the contact portion 15a is provided as a portion on one end side in the longitudinal direction, and is configured as a portion electrically connected to each plug-side contact 13 of the plug connector 11. In the present embodiment, the contact portion 15a is provided as a contact portion extending in a plate shape elongated in the fitting direction X1. In the receptacle-side contact 15, a board connection portion 15b is provided as the other end portion in the longitudinal direction, and is configured as a portion to be connected to a board of the device on which the receptacle connector 12 is mounted. The board connection portion 15b is connected to the board of the device on which the receptacle connector 12 is mounted by soldering.

Referring to fig. 1, 3 to 7, the receptacle-side housing 16 is disposed inside the case 17 and fixed to the case 17. The receptacle-side housing 16 is configured to hold the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 inside the shell 17. The receptacle-side housing 16 is configured to abut against an end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted from the opening 18 on the rear side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12, and to position the plug connector 11 fitted to the receptacle connector 12 in the fitting direction X1.

Referring to fig. 1, 3 to 7, the receptacle-side housing 16 is provided with a contact holding portion 20 and a receiving portion 21. The contact holding portion 20 is provided as a portion that holds the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15. The contact holding portion 20 is provided to extend inside the housing 17 so as to protrude in a cantilever shape from a receiving portion 21 described later, and is formed to extend in a plate shape along the fitting direction X1. The contact holding portion 20 is provided so as to extend in a plate shape along the fitting direction X1 from a receiving portion 21, which will be described later, disposed on the back side of the opening 18 toward the inlet side of the opening 18 inside the housing 17. When the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18, and the contact holding portion 20 of the receptacle-side housing 16 is inserted into the insertion hole 14b of the opening insertion portion 14a inside the opening 18.

Further, referring to fig. 3, a plurality of contact holding holes 20a and contact holding grooves 20b are provided in the contact holding portion 20. The contact holding holes 20a and the contact holding grooves 20b are arranged in series and are communicated with each other along the fitting direction X1. The receptacle-side contact 15 is held by the contact holding portion 20 by pressing the receptacle-side contact 15 into the contact holding hole 20a communicating with the contact holding groove 20b. The plurality of contact holding holes 20a of the contact holding portion 20 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2, and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2 in the contact holding portion 20 by pressing the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 into the plurality of contact holding holes 20a, respectively.

The contact holding groove 20b communicating with the contact holding hole 20a is configured such that the contact portion 15a of the receptacle-side contact 15 pressed into the contact holding hole 20a is disposed. In the contact holding portion 20, the contact holding groove 20b is opened in the height direction X3. Accordingly, the contact portion 15a, which is a portion of the receptacle-side contact 15 held by the contact holding portion 20 and is disposed in the contact holding groove 20b, is disposed so as to be exposed inside the housing 17. When the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18, and the contact holding portion 20 is inserted into the insertion hole 14b of the opening insertion portion 14 a. In this state, the receptacle-side contacts 15 exposed at the contact holding portion 20 are in contact with the respective plug-side contacts 13 exposed in the insertion holes 14b of the opening insertion portion 14 a.

Referring to fig. 3, 4, 6 and 7, the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 is disposed inside the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 and is fixed to the shell 17. The receiving portion 21 has an inner wall 21a that abuts against the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18, and the receiving portion 21 is provided as a portion that receives the end 14c of the plug connector 11. The inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 has a wall surface extending along a surface perpendicular to the fitting direction X1 on the back side of the opening 18. The inner wall 21a is provided on both sides in the height direction X3 with respect to the contact holding portion 20 protruding from the receiving portion 21. Further, in the receiving portion 21, the inner wall 21a is provided as a wall portion at a central portion in the width direction X2.

The opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18 when the plug connector 11 is fitted with the receptacle connector 12. The end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18 is in contact with the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 on the rear side of the opening 18. The end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21, whereby positioning of the plug connector 11 fitted with the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the receptacle connector 12 in the fitting direction X1 is performed.

Referring to fig. 3, 4, 6 and 7, the receiving portion 21 is provided with release portions 21b on both sides in the width direction X2, and the release portions 21b release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. The release portion 21b is configured to release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 by preventing abutment with the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 so as to avoid transmission of the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11.

The release portions 21b are provided on both sides of the receiving portion 21 in the width direction X2 as concave portions recessed toward the inner side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Further, in the receiving portion 21, the release portions 21b are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the inner wall 21a, respectively. Further, in the present embodiment, the release portions 21b provided on both sides of the inner wall 21a in the width direction X2 are formed so as to be recessed stepwise from the inner wall 21a toward the inner side of the opening 18. Accordingly, as shown in fig. 4, in a state in which the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12 and the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18 is in contact with the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16, a gap is formed between the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 and the release portion 21b of the receiving portion 21.

(fitting connection of plug connector and socket connector)

Next, the operation of the above-described electrical connection device 1 in which the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted and connected will be described. The connection of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 is performed in a state in which: the plug connector 11 is mounted on one of 2 devices (not shown) to be electrically connected, and the receptacle connector 12 is mounted on the other of the 2 devices.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 1, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 at a position corresponding to the line C-C of fig. 2 (B) in the visible position before the fitting connection. In fig. 8, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted. When the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted to each other, as shown by an arrow T in fig. 8, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12.

When the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12, the contact holding portion 20 of the receptacle-side housing 16 is inserted into the insertion hole 14b of the opening insertion portion 14 a. Then, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15 held by the contact holding portion 20 are respectively contacted with the plurality of plug-side contacts 13 held by the plug-side housing 14, and the plug connector 11 is electrically connected with the receptacle connector 12. The end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18 is in contact with the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18. The end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21, whereby the plug connector 11 is positioned in the fitting direction X1 with respect to the receptacle connector 12, and the fitting connection of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 is completed.

When the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted to each other, if the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in parallel with the fitting direction X1, the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 without being inclined, and is fitted to the receptacle connector 12. Then, as shown in fig. 4, the following state is established: the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12 in a state where the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 of the receptacle connector 12 over the entire length of the inner wall 21a in the width direction X2.

On the other hand, when the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted to each other, the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 may be inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state. That is, the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 may be inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state in which the insertion direction of the plug connector 11 toward the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 is inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1.

Fig. 9 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 1, illustrating the operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12. Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining a case where the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the plug connector 11, which is obliquely inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 and is fitted, at a position corresponding to the line C-C of fig. 2 (B) in the viewing position. In fig. 9, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted.

In the case where the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state, as shown in fig. 9, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18 in an inclined state with respect to the fitting direction X1. At this time, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 faces the release portion 21b of the receiving portion 21 provided in the receptacle-side housing 16. That is, the edge portions 14d of the edge portions 14d on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle-side housing 12 in an inclined state face the release portion 21b provided to the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16.

The release portion 21b toward which the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a inserted obliquely into the opening 18 is directed is provided so as to be recessed toward the inner side of the opening 18 with respect to the inner wall 21a at the receiving portion 21. Therefore, the edge portion 14d of the end portion 14c on the tip end side of the opening insertion portion 14a in the width direction X2 is not in contact with the release portion 21b. That is, in the release portion 21b, the contact with the end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14 is prevented so as to avoid transmission of the force acting from the end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14, and the force acting from the end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14 is released. Then, the front end side end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug side housing 14 abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle side housing 16 at the center side portion in the width direction X2. Thereby, the widthwise edge portion 14d of the front end side end 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state is prevented from touching the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12.

When the end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 abuts the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 at a portion on the center side in the width direction X2, the opening insertion portion 14a swings such that the end 14c thereof follows the inner wall 21a. Thereby, the inclination of the opening insertion portion 14a obliquely inserted into the opening 18 is corrected. Then, as shown in fig. 4, the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12 in a state in which the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 is in contact with the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 over the entire length of the inner wall 21a in the width direction X2. That is, the inclination of the plug connector 11 inserted obliquely into the opening 18 is corrected, and the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted in parallel with the fitting direction X1.

(action and Effect of the present embodiment)

According to the present embodiment, the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 having the inner wall 21a that abuts against the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 is provided with the release portions 21b on both sides in the width direction X2, and the release portions 21b release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11. Therefore, when the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted is directed toward the release portion 21b of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12. That is, the edge portion 14d facing the inner side of the opening 18 among the edge portions 14d on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle side housing 16 in an inclined state faces the release portion 21b of the receiving portion 21 provided in the receptacle side housing 16. Therefore, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state is prevented from touching the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21.

The release portion 21b is configured to prevent the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 from being transmitted by preventing contact with the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11, thereby releasing the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11. Therefore, the following state is established: the force is not transmitted from the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 toward the release portion 21b to the receptacle-side housing 16 on the rear side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Thereby, the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Therefore, a load in the torsion direction that rotates about the center position in the width direction X2 is suppressed from being generated in the receptacle connector 12. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector 12 is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact 15 of the device to which the receptacle connector 12 is mounted is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contacts 15 and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, the occurrence of damage to the receptacle-side housing 16 holding the receptacle-side contacts 15 fixed to the device is suppressed, and the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 12 is also suppressed.

As a result, according to the present embodiment, even when the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, it is possible to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12. Further, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector 11 to the receptacle connector 12 is repeated, the accumulation of damage in the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact 15 and the device can be suppressed, and the breakage of the receptacle connector 12 to the mounting portion of the device can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of damage to the receptacle-side housing 16 holding the receptacle-side contacts 15 fixed to the device, and also to suppress the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 12.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the electrical connection device 1 in which the plug connector 11 is fitted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 with the gap C1 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the release portion 21b can be constituted by a simple structure in which recesses formed on both sides of the receiving portion 21 in the width direction X2 so as to be recessed toward the inner side of the opening 18, and the release portion 21b releases the force from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 by preventing abutment with the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 so as to avoid transmission of the force from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11.

[ embodiment 2 ]

Next, embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 2 according to embodiment 2 of the present invention, and shows a state in which the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted and connected. In addition, in fig. 10, a section of a portion of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 in the electrical connection device 2 is shown. In fig. 10, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted. Except for a part of the structure, the electrical connection device 2 of embodiment 2 is configured in the same manner as the electrical connection device 1 of embodiment 1. In the following description of embodiment 2, the differences from embodiment 1 will be described, and the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding structures as those of embodiment 1, and the same reference numerals are given to the same drawings, so that redundant description is omitted.

The electrical connection device 2 according to embodiment 2 is configured to have a plug connector 11 and a receptacle connector 12 fitted to the plug connector 11, similarly to the electrical connection device 1 according to embodiment 1. The plug connector 11 is configured to have a plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and a plug-side housing 14. The receptacle connector 12 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15, a receptacle-side housing 16, and a shell 17. The receptacle connector 12 is provided with an opening 18 through which the plug connector 11 is inserted and fitted with the clearance C1 interposed therebetween. The receptacle 21 is provided in the receptacle-side housing 16 of the receptacle connector 12, and the receptacle 21 is disposed on the rear side of the opening 18 and has an inner wall 21a that abuts against the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18. However, the electrical connection device 2 is different from the electrical connection device 1 of embodiment 1 in the structure of the release portion 22 provided in the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12.

As shown in fig. 10, the receiving portions 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 of the receptacle connector 12 of the electrical connection device 2 are provided with release portions 22 on both sides in the width direction X2, and the release portions 22 release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18. The release portion 22 is configured to release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 by preventing abutment with the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 so as to avoid transmission of the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11.

The release portions 22 are provided on both sides of the receiving portion 21 in the width direction X2 as through holes penetrating the receiving portion 21 in the fitting direction X1. Further, in the receiving portion 21, the release portions 22 are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the inner wall 21a, respectively. The release portions 22 are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the inner wall 21a, and on both sides in the height direction X3 with respect to the contact holding portion 20.

According to the electrical connection device 2 of embodiment 2 described above, the release portion 22 provided in the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12 and releasing the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is provided as a through hole formed in the receiving portion 21 on both sides in the width direction X2. When the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted faces the release portion 22 provided to the receiving portion 21. Since the release portion 22 is provided as a through hole, the force is not transmitted from the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 toward the release portion 22 to the receptacle-side housing 16 on the rear side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Thereby, the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Therefore, a load in the torsion direction that rotates about the center position in the width direction X2 is suppressed from being generated in the receptacle connector 12. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector 12 is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact 15 of the device to which the receptacle connector 12 is mounted is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contacts 15 and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, the occurrence of damage to the receptacle-side housing 16 holding the receptacle-side contacts 15 fixed to the device is suppressed, and the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 12 is also suppressed.

Therefore, according to embodiment 2, the electrical connection device 2 in which the plug connector 11 is fitted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 with the gap C1 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12.

[ embodiment 3 ]

Next, embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 3 according to embodiment 3 of the present invention, and shows a state in which the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 of the electrical connection device 3 are not fitted and are not connected. In addition, in fig. 11, a section of a portion of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 in the electrical connection device 3 is shown. In fig. 11, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted. Except for a part of the structure, the electrical connection device 3 of embodiment 3 is configured in the same manner as the electrical connection device 1 of embodiment 1. In the following description of embodiment 3, the differences from embodiment 1 will be described, and the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding structures as those of embodiment 1, and the same reference numerals are given to the same drawings, so that redundant description is omitted.

The electrical connection device 3 according to embodiment 3 is configured to have a plug connector 11 and a receptacle connector 12 fitted to the plug connector 11, similarly to the electrical connection device 1 according to embodiment 1. The plug connector 11 is configured to have a plurality of plug-side contacts 13 and a plug-side housing 14. The receptacle connector 12 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 15, a receptacle-side housing 16, and a shell 17. The receptacle connector 12 is provided with an opening 18 through which the plug connector 11 is inserted and fitted with the clearance C1 interposed therebetween. The receptacle 21 is provided in the receptacle-side housing 16 of the receptacle connector 12, and the receptacle 21 is disposed on the rear side of the opening 18 and has an inner wall 21a that abuts against the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18. However, the electrical connection device 3 is different from the electrical connection device 1 of embodiment 1 in the structure of the release portion 23 provided in the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12.

As shown in fig. 11, the receiving portions 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 of the receptacle connector 12 of the electrical connection device 3 are provided with release portions 23 on both sides in the width direction X2, and the release portions 23 release the force acting from the end portions 14c of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18. The release portion 23 is configured to release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 by relaxing the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11.

The release portions 23 are provided on both sides of the receiving portion 21 in the width direction X2, and are provided on both sides of the inner wall 21a in the width direction X2. In the receptacle-side housing 16, the release portion 23 is composed of a material different from that of the portion of the receptacle-side housing 16 other than the release portion 23, and is provided as an elastic member composed of a material that is more easily elastically deformed than the portion of the receptacle-side housing 16 other than the release portion 23. The portion of the receptacle-side housing 16 other than the release portion 23 is made of a synthetic resin material. On the other hand, the release portion 23 is made of an elastomer material, for example, a rubber material. In the receiving portion 21, the release portion 23 made of a rubber material is provided integrally fixed to the receiving portion 21 on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the inner wall 21 a.

Fig. 12 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 3, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining a case where the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state. In addition, in fig. 12, a section of a portion of the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 in the electrical connection device 3 is shown. In fig. 12, the entire cross section of the plug connector 11 is hatched with oblique lines, and the cross section is schematically shown in a form in which the detailed shape is omitted.

In the case where the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state, as shown in fig. 12, the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 is inserted into the opening 18 in an inclined state with respect to the fitting direction X1. At this time, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 faces the release portion 23 of the receiving portion 21 provided in the receptacle-side housing 16. That is, the edge portions 14d of the edge portions 14d on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle-side housing 16 in an inclined state face the release portion 23 provided to the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16.

The release portion 23 toward which the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the tip end side end portion 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a, which is obliquely inserted into the opening 18, faces is made of an elastomer material such as a rubber material that is easily elastically deformed, unlike a portion of the receptacle-side case 16 made of a synthetic resin material other than the release portion 23. Therefore, when the edge portion 14d of the end portion 14c on the tip end side of the opening insertion portion 14a in the width direction X2 abuts against the release portion 23, the release portion 23 is elastically deformed, whereby the impact acting on the release portion 23 from the edge portion 14d is absorbed, and the force acting on the receiving portion 21 from the edge portion 14d is relaxed. That is, the release portion 23 relieves the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14, and releases the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14. Then, the front end side end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug side housing 14 abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle side housing 16 at the center side portion in the width direction X2. Thereby, the widthwise edge portion 14d of the front end side end 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state is prevented from touching the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12.

When the portion of the end 14c of the opening insertion portion 14a of the plug-side housing 14 on the center side in the width direction X2 abuts against the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21, the opening insertion portion 14a swings with the end 14c thereof along the inner wall 21a. Thereby, the inclination of the opening insertion portion 14a obliquely inserted into the opening 18 is corrected. Then, the following state is established: the plug connector 11 is fitted to the receptacle connector 12 in a state where the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 abuts the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21 over the entire length of the inner wall 21a in the width direction X2. That is, the inclination of the plug connector 11 inserted obliquely into the opening 18 is corrected, and the plug connector 11 and the receptacle connector 12 are fitted in parallel with the fitting direction X1.

According to the electrical connection device 3 of embodiment 3 described above, the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle-side housing 16 having the inner wall 21a that abuts against the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 is provided with the release portions 23 on both sides in the width direction X2, and the release portions 23 release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11. Therefore, when the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted is directed toward the release portion 23 of the receiving portion 21 of the receptacle connector 12. That is, the edge portions 14d facing the inner side of the opening 18 among the edge portions 14d on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle side housing 16 in an inclined state face the release portion 23 of the receiving portion 21 provided in the receptacle side housing 16. Therefore, the edge portion 14d of the width direction X2 of the front end side end 14c of the plug side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in an inclined state is prevented from touching the inner wall 21a of the receiving portion 21.

The release portion 23 is configured to release the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 by relaxing the force acting from the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11. Therefore, the following state is established: when the force is relaxed, the force acts on the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 from the edge portion 14d in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 facing the release portion 23. Thereby, the end 14c of the plug-side housing 14 of the plug connector 11 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the receptacle-side housing 16 on the inner side of the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12. Therefore, a load in the torsion direction that rotates about the center position in the width direction X2 is suppressed from being generated in the receptacle connector 12. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector 12 is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact 15 of the device to which the receptacle connector 12 is mounted is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contacts 15 and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, the occurrence of damage to the receptacle-side housing 16 holding the receptacle-side contacts 15 fixed to the device is suppressed, and the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 12 is also suppressed.

Thus, according to embodiment 3, even when the plug connector 11 is inserted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, it is possible to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12. Further, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector 11 to the receptacle connector 12 is repeated, the accumulation of damage in the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact 15 and the device can be suppressed, and the breakage of the receptacle connector 12 to the mounting portion of the device can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of damage to the receptacle-side housing 16 holding the receptacle-side contacts 15 fixed to the device, and also to suppress the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 12.

Therefore, according to embodiment 3, the electrical connection device 3 in which the plug connector 11 is fitted into the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 with the gap C1 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 12.

[ embodiment 4 ]

(outline structure of electric connection device)

Next, embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the electrical connection device 4 according to embodiment 4 of the present invention, and shows a state in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 of the electrical connection device 4 are not fitted and are not connected. Fig. 14 is a plan view of the electrical connection device 4, and shows a state in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are not fitted and are not connected. Fig. 15 is a side view of the electrical connection device 4, and shows a state in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are not fitted and are not connected. Fig. 16 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 4, and is a sectional view of the H-H line of fig. 15 taken toward a viewing position. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 4, and is a diagram showing a state in which the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32.

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the electrical connection device 4 includes a plug connector 31 and a receptacle connector 32 fitted to the plug connector 31, and the electrical connection device 4 is configured to electrically connect 2 devices (not shown). The plug connector 31 is mounted to one of 2 devices to be electrically connected via a plurality of electric wires 50. The plug connector 31 is provided with a plurality of plug-side contacts 33. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are connected to the plurality of electric wires 50, and the plurality of electric wires 50 are connected to the one device at an end opposite to an end connected to the plurality of plug-side contacts 33, whereby the plug connector 31 is mounted to the one device via the plurality of electric wires 50. The receptacle connector 32 is mounted on another device out of the 2 devices to be electrically connected, and for example, the receptacle connector 32 is mounted on and fixed to a board (not shown) provided in the other device by soldering. The receptacle connector 32 is provided with a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37, and the receptacle-side contacts 37 are soldered to the board of the other device, whereby the receptacle connector 32 is mounted on the other device. The plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the plug connector 31 is mounted to one of the 2 devices and the receptacle connector 32 is mounted to the other of the 2 devices via the electric wire 50, thereby electrically connecting the 2 devices.

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the plug connector 31 is configured to have a plurality of plug-side contacts 33, a plug-side housing 34, and a lock arm 35. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are formed of a conductive metal material and are held by the plug-side housing 34. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are held by the plug-side housing 34 in a state of being extended in parallel with each other in the longitudinal direction and being arranged in 2 rows. The plug-side housing 34 is formed of an insulating synthetic resin material, and holds the plurality of plug-side contacts 33. The plug connector 31 is configured such that the plug side housing 34 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32, and the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32. The lock arm 35 is provided integrally with the plug-side housing 34, and is provided to lock the plug connector 31 to the receptacle connector 32 when the plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32.

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the receptacle connector 32 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 and a receptacle-side housing 38. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are formed of a conductive metal material and are held by the receptacle-side housing 38. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are held by the receptacle-side housing 38 in a state of being extended in parallel with each other in the longitudinal direction and being arranged in 2 rows. The receptacle-side housing 38 is formed of an insulating synthetic resin material, and holds the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37. The receptacle connector 32 is provided with an opening 39 into which the plug connector 31 is fitted. The plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 to be fitted, whereby the plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32.

Next, a more detailed structure of the electrical connection device 4 will be described. In the following description, as shown by the two-end arrow X1, the two-end arrow X2, and the two-end arrow X3 in fig. 13 to 17 and the later-described drawings, the fitting direction X1, the width direction X2, and the height direction X3 in the electrical connection device 4 are defined.

The fitting direction X1 is a direction in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted. That is, the fitting direction X1 is configured to be parallel to the direction in which the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 when the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted.

The width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and is a direction in which the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are arranged in the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 in the fitted state. Therefore, in the plug connector 31, the width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are arranged in the plug-side housing 34. In the receptacle connector 32, the width direction X2 is perpendicular to the fitting direction X1, and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are arranged in the receptacle-side housing 38.

The height direction X3 is perpendicular to both the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2. Therefore, in the plug connector 31, the height direction X3 is perpendicular to both the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2. In the receptacle connector 32, the height direction X3 is also perpendicular to the fitting direction X1 and the width direction X2.

(plug connector)

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the plug connector 31 includes a plurality of plug-side contacts 33, a plug-side housing 34 that holds the plurality of plug-side contacts 33, and a lock arm 35 integrally provided to the plug-side housing 34.

The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are each configured as, for example, a female contact, and include a cylindrical portion provided in the longitudinal direction and a spring contact portion provided inside the cylindrical portion. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are held by the plug-side housing 34 in a state where the longitudinal direction thereof extends along the fitting direction X1. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are held by the plug-side housing 34 in a state of extending parallel to each other along the fitting direction X1 and in a state of being aligned along the width direction X2. In the present embodiment, the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2.

The plug-side contacts 33 are configured to be electrically connected by contacting one end side in the longitudinal direction with the receptacle-side contacts 37 of the receptacle connector 32. The plug-side contacts 33 are connected to the electric wires 50 at the other end in the longitudinal direction, for example, by crimping, and the electric wires 50 are connected to the device to which the plug connector 31 is attached. The plug-side contacts 33 are pressed into and held by the plug-side housing 34 in a state of being connected to the electric wires 50.

The plug-side housing 34 is configured to hold the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 and to be fitted with the receptacle connector 32 by being inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. The plug-side housing 34 is provided with a plurality of contact holding holes 36, and the plurality of contact holding holes 36 penetrate the interior of the plug-side housing 34 in the fitting direction X1. The plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are held by the plug-side housing 34 by pressing the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 into the plurality of contact holding holes 36 in the plug-side housing 34, respectively. Further, the plurality of contact holding holes 36 of the plug-side housing 34 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2. Then, by pressing and holding the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 into the plurality of contact holding holes 36, the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 are arranged in 2 rows in the width direction X2 in the plug-side housing 34.

The plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32, and has an outer peripheral shape substantially corresponding to the inner peripheral shape of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. The dimension in the width direction X2 of the plug-side housing 34 is set smaller than the dimension in the width direction X2 of the inner periphery of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. Accordingly, referring to fig. 17, the plug-side housing 34 is configured to be inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 with the gap C2 set in the width direction X2 therebetween.

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, an abutting portion 34b and a release portion 34c are provided at a front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34, which is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. The abutment portion 34b is provided as follows: when the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 and fitted, it abuts against an inner wall 40 described later on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. The inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is provided as a wall portion disposed on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 as a part of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32. The abutting portion 34b is provided as a central portion in the width direction X2 of the end portion 34a on the front end side of the plug-side housing 34.

The release portions 34c are disposed on both sides in the width direction X2 of the abutting portions 34b at the end portions 34a on the front end side of the plug-side housing 34. The release portion 34c is provided as follows: for releasing a force acting on the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32. The release portion 34c is configured to release the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32 by preventing abutment with the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32 to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32.

Further, the release portions 34c are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. The release portions 34c are provided on both sides of the contact portion 34b in the width direction X2 at the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34. The release portion 34c is provided so as to be recessed stepwise toward the opposite side of the contact portion 34b from the front end side of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34, which is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32, with respect to the front end side end portion 34 a. Accordingly, as shown in fig. 17, in a state in which the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32 and the abutting portion 34b of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39 abuts against the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38, a gap is formed between the release portion 34c of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 and the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38.

The lock arm 35 provided integrally with the plug-side housing 34 is provided to lock the plug connector 31 to the receptacle connector 32 when the plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32. The lock arm 35 is provided on one wall surface side in the height direction X3 of the plug-side housing 34, and the lock arm 35 is provided as an operation lever type lock mechanism in a tilted plate shape, for example. The lock arm 35 is configured such that when the plug-side housing 34 is engaged with the receptacle connector 32, the lock arm 35 engages with the receptacle connector 32. By engaging the lock arm 35 with the receptacle connector 32, the plug-side housing 34 fitted to the receptacle connector 32 is prevented from coming off. Thereby, the plug connector 31 is locked to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32.

(socket connector)

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the receptacle connector 32 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 and a receptacle-side housing 38. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are each provided as, for example, a male-type contact, have a longitudinal direction, and are held in the receptacle-side housing 38 in a state in which the longitudinal direction extends along the fitting direction X1. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are held by the receptacle-side housing 38 in a state of extending parallel to each other along the fitting direction X1 and in a state of being aligned along the width direction X2. In the present embodiment, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2.

Referring to fig. 13, 14, 16, and 17, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are provided with a contact portion 37a and a board connecting portion 37b, respectively. In the receptacle-side contact 37, the contact portion 37a is provided as a portion on one end side in the longitudinal direction, and is configured as a portion electrically connected to each plug-side contact 33 of the plug connector 31. In the present embodiment, the contact portion 37a is provided as a contact portion extending in a pin shape so as to be elongated in the fitting direction X1. In the receptacle-side contact 37, the board connection portion 37b is provided as the other end portion in the longitudinal direction, and is configured as a portion connected to the board of the apparatus to which the receptacle connector 32 is attached. The board connection portion 37b is connected to the board of the device on which the receptacle connector 32 is mounted by soldering.

Referring to fig. 13 to 17, the receptacle-side housing 38 is configured to hold a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 and to be fitted with the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31. By fitting the plug-side housing 34 and the receptacle-side housing 38, the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted and connected.

The receptacle-side housing 38 is provided with an opening 39 through which the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 11 is inserted and fitted with the clearance C1 interposed therebetween. In the present embodiment, the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is configured as an opening 39 provided in the receptacle-side housing 38. The opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38 is provided so as to open on one side in the fitting direction X1 in the receptacle-side housing 38. The opening 39 is provided as a cross-sectional opening in a substantially rectangular shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39.

When the plug connector 31 is fitted with the receptacle connector 32, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38. Referring to fig. 17, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38 with the clearance C2 interposed therebetween. In a state where the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38, the clearance C2 is configured as a clearance between the side surface on the inner side of the opening 39, that is, the side surfaces on both ends in the width direction X2 of the opening 39, and the side surface on the outer side of the plug-side housing 34, that is, the side surfaces on both ends in the width direction X2 of the plug-side housing 34. That is, the gap C2 is set in the width direction X2.

Referring to fig. 16 and 17, the receptacle-side housing 38 is provided with an inner wall 40 that is disposed inside the opening 39 and holds the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37. The inner wall 40 is disposed inside the receptacle-side housing 38 on the inner side of the opening 39, and is provided as a wall portion that spreads flat in the width direction X2 and the height direction X3. Accordingly, the inner wall 40 has a wall surface extending along a surface perpendicular to the fitting direction X1 on the back side of the opening 39. The inner wall 40 is configured to abut against an abutment portion 34b of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39.

When the plug connector 31 is fitted with the receptacle connector 32, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38. The contact portion 34b of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39 contacts the inner wall 40 on the rear side of the opening 39. By the abutment portion 34b of the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 abutting against the inner wall 40, the plug connector 31 fitted to the receptacle connector 32 is positioned with respect to the receptacle connector 32 in the fitting direction X1.

Further, referring to fig. 13 and 16, a plurality of contact holding holes 41 penetrating the inner wall 40 in the fitting direction X1 are provided in the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are held by the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 by pressing the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 into the plurality of contact holding holes 41 provided in the inner wall 40, respectively. Further, a plurality of contact holding holes 41 provided in the inner wall 40 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2. The plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are arranged in 2 rows along the width direction X2 in the receptacle-side housing 38 by pressing and holding the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 in the plurality of contact holding holes 41, respectively.

When the plug connector 31 is fitted with the receptacle connector 32, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38. At this time, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 disposed inside the opening 39 are respectively inserted into the plurality of contact holding holes 36, wherein the plurality of contact holding holes 36 are opened at the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39. The male receptacle-side contacts 37 inserted into the contact holding holes 36 of the plug-side housing 34 are fitted into and brought into contact with the female plug-side contacts 33 held in the contact holding holes 36. Thus, the plurality of plug-side contacts 33 of the plug connector 31 and the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 of the receptacle connector 32 are electrically connected, respectively.

Further, referring to fig. 13 and 14, a lock engagement portion 42 that engages with the lock arm 35 of the plug connector 31 is provided in the receptacle-side housing 38. The lock engagement portion 42 is provided as a convex portion protruding from one wall surface in the height direction X3 of the receptacle-side housing 38. The lock engagement portion 42 is configured such that, when the plug-side housing 34 is engaged with the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38, the lock engagement portion 42 engages with the lock arm 35 integrally provided with the plug-side housing 34. The lock engagement portion 42 engages with the lock arm 35, thereby preventing the plug-side housing 34 fitted to the receptacle-side housing 38 from coming off. Thereby, the plug connector 31 is locked to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the plug connector 31 is connected to the receptacle connector 32.

(fitting connection of plug connector and socket connector)

Next, the operation of the above-described electrical connection device 4 in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted and connected will be described. The connection of the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 is performed in a state in which: the plug connector 31 is attached to one of 2 devices (not shown) to be electrically connected via a plurality of wires 50, and the receptacle connector 32 is attached to the other of the 2 devices.

When the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted to each other, as shown by an arrow T in fig. 16, the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32. When the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are inserted into the plurality of contact holding holes 36 of the plug-side housing 34, respectively. Then, the plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 are respectively contacted with the plurality of plug-side contacts 33, and the plug connector 31 is electrically connected with the receptacle connector 32. The contact portion 34b of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39 contacts the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 on the rear side of the opening 39. By the contact portion 34b of the plug-side housing 34 coming into contact with the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38, the plug connector 31 is positioned in the fitting direction X1 with respect to the receptacle connector 32, and the fitting connection between the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 is completed.

When the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted to each other, if the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in parallel with the fitting direction X1, the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 without being inclined, and is fitted to the receptacle connector 32. Then, as shown in fig. 17, the following state is established: the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the abutting portion 34b of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 abuts the inner wall 40 of the receptacle side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32 over the entire length of the abutting portion 34b in the width direction X2.

On the other hand, when the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted to each other, the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 may be inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state. That is, in some cases, the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the insertion direction of the plug connector 31 toward the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1.

Fig. 18 is a sectional view of the electrical connection device 4, illustrating the operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32. Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining a case where the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a position corresponding to the line H-H of fig. 15 in a position corresponding to the viewing position in a state where the plug connector 31 is fitted obliquely inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32.

In the case where the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state, as shown in fig. 18, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 in an inclined state with respect to the fitting direction X1. At this time, one of the release portions 34c provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 faces the inner wall 40 on the rear side of the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38. That is, of the release portions 34c on both sides in the width direction X2 of the tip end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 inserted in the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38 in an inclined state, the release portion 34c inclined toward the inside of the opening 39 faces the inner wall 40 on the inside of the opening 39.

The release portions 34c on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34, which is inserted obliquely into the opening 39, are provided so as to be recessed stepwise toward the side opposite to the back side of the opening 39 with respect to the contact portion 34 b. Accordingly, the release portion 34c on one of the both sides in the width direction X2 of the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34, that is, the release portion 34c facing the inner wall 40 is not in contact with the inner wall 40. That is, in the release portion 34c, the contact with the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 is prevented to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38, and the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 is released. Then, the end 34a on the front end side of the plug-side housing 34 is abutted against the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 at the center-side abutment portion 34b in the width direction X2. Thus, the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the inner wall 40 on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38.

When the contact portion 34b of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 on the center side in the width direction X2 contacts the inner wall 40 of the receptacle side housing 38, the plug side housing 34 swings such that the contact portion 34b of the end portion 34a thereof follows the inner wall 40. Thereby, the inclination of the plug-side housing 34 inserted obliquely into the opening 39 is corrected. Then, as shown in fig. 17, the following state is established: the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the abutting portion 34b of the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 abuts against the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 over the entire length of the abutting portion 34b in the width direction X2. That is, the inclination of the plug connector 31 inserted obliquely into the opening 39 is corrected, and the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted in parallel with the fitting direction X1.

(action and Effect of the embodiment)

According to the present embodiment, the end 34a of the front end side of the plug side housing 34 inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is provided with the abutting portion 34b abutting against the inner wall 40 of the rear side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32, and the release portion 34c arranged on both sides in the width direction X2 of the abutting portion 34b and releasing the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, when the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, one of the release portions 34c provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 faces the inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. That is, the release portions 34c of the release portions 34c on both sides in the width direction X2 of the tip end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 inserted in the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state are directed toward the inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32.

The release portion 34c is configured to release the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 by preventing contact with the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 so as to avoid transmission of the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, the following state is established: force is not transmitted from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 to one of the release portions 34c on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 toward the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32. Thereby, the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the inner wall 40 on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction rotating about the center position in the width direction X2 in the receptacle connector 32 is suppressed. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector 32 is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact 37 of the device to which the receptacle connector 32 is attached is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contacts 37 and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, the occurrence of damage to the receptacle-side housing 38 holding the receptacle-side contacts 37 fixed to the device is suppressed, and the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 32 is also suppressed.

As a result, according to the present embodiment, even when the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, it is possible to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32. Further, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector 31 to the receptacle connector 32 is repeated, the accumulation of damage in the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact 37 and the device can be suppressed, and the breakage of the receptacle connector 32 to the mounting portion of the device can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of damage to the receptacle-side housing 38 holding the receptacle-side contacts 37 fixed to the device, and also to suppress the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 32.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the electrical connection device 4 in which the plug connector 31 is fitted to the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 with the gap C2 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the release portion 34c can be constituted by a simple structure in which both sides in the width direction X2 of the end portion 34a on the front end side of the plug-side housing 34 are formed as portions recessed stepwise toward the side opposite to the front end side, and the release portion 34c releases the force from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 by preventing abutment with the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 to avoid transmission of the force from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32.

[ embodiment 5 ]

Next, embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. Fig. 19 is a plan view of the electrical connection device 5 according to embodiment 5 of the present invention, and shows a state in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 of the electrical connection device 5 are not fitted and are not connected. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 5, and is a diagram showing a state in which the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are not fitted and thus are not connected. Except for a part of the structure, the electric connection device 5 of embodiment 5 is configured in the same manner as the electric connection device 4 of embodiment 4. In the following description of embodiment 5, the differences from embodiment 4 will be described, and the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding structures as those of embodiment 4, and the same reference numerals are given to the drawings, so that redundant description is omitted.

The electrical connection device 5 according to embodiment 5 is configured to have a plug connector 31 and a receptacle connector 32 fitted to the plug connector 31, similarly to the electrical connection device 4 according to embodiment 4. The plug connector 31 is configured to have a plurality of plug-side contacts 33, a plug-side housing 34, and a lock arm 35. The receptacle connector 32 is configured to have a plurality of receptacle-side contacts 37 and a receptacle-side housing 38. The plug connector 31 is inserted into an opening 39 provided in the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32 through a clearance C2, and is fitted. Further, an abutting portion 34b that abuts against the inner wall 40 on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is provided at the front end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 that is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. However, the electrical connection device 5 is different from the electrical connection device 4 of embodiment 4 in the structure of the release portion 43 provided at the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 on the front end side.

As shown in fig. 19 and 20, a release portion 43 is provided at the front end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 of the electrical connection device 5, and the release portion 43 is disposed on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the abutment portion 34b, and releases a force acting on the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 inserted into the opening 39 from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle side housing 38. The release portion 43 is configured to release the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32 by relaxing the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 of the receptacle connector 32.

The release portions 43 are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34, and are provided on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the contact portions 34b, respectively. In the plug-side housing 34, the release portion 43 is made of a material different from that of the portion of the plug-side housing 34 other than the release portion 43, and is provided as an elastic member made of a material that is more easily elastically deformed than the portion of the plug-side housing 34 other than the release portion 43. The portion of the plug-side housing 34 other than the release portion 43 is made of a synthetic resin material. On the other hand, the release portion 43 is made of an elastomer material, for example, a rubber material. The release portion 43 made of a rubber material is provided at the front end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34, and is integrally fixed to the end 34a of the plug side housing 34 on both sides in the width direction X2 with respect to the contact portion 34 b.

Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection device 5, and is a diagram for explaining an operation of fitting and connecting the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32. Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a case where the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state.

In the case where the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state, as shown in fig. 21, the plug-side housing 34 is inserted into the opening 39 in an inclined state with respect to the fitting direction X1. At this time, one of the release portions 43 provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 faces the inner wall 40 on the rear side of the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38. That is, of the release portions 43 on both sides in the width direction X2 of the tip end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34 inserted in the opening 39 of the receptacle side housing 38 in an inclined state, the release portion 43 inclined toward the inside of the opening 39 faces the inner wall 40 on the inside of the opening 39.

The release portions 43 on both sides in the width direction X2 of the tip end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34, which is inserted obliquely into the opening 39, are formed of an elastic material such as a rubber material that is easily elastically deformed, unlike the portions of the receptacle side housing 38, which are formed of a synthetic resin material, except for the release portions 43. Therefore, when the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 abuts against the release portion 43 on one of the both sides in the width direction X2 of the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34, the release portion 43 is elastically deformed, and thereby the impact acting on the release portion 43 from the inner wall 40 is absorbed, and the force acting on the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 from the inner wall 40 is relaxed. That is, the releasing portion 43 relieves the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38, and releases the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38. The contact portion 34b on the center side in the width direction X2 of the tip end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 contacts the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38. Thus, the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the inner wall 40 on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38.

When the contact portion 34b of the front end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 on the center side in the width direction X2 contacts the inner wall 40 of the receptacle side housing 38, the plug side housing 34 swings such that the contact portion 34b of the end portion 34a thereof follows the inner wall 40. Thereby, the inclination of the plug-side housing 34 inserted obliquely into the opening 39 is corrected. Then, the following state is established: the plug connector 31 is fitted to the receptacle connector 32 in a state where the abutting portion 34b of the end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 abuts against the inner wall 40 of the receptacle-side housing 38 over the entire length of the abutting portion 34b in the width direction X2. That is, the inclination of the plug connector 31 inserted obliquely into the opening 39 is corrected, and the plug connector 31 and the receptacle connector 32 are fitted in parallel with the fitting direction X1.

According to the electrical connection device 5 of embodiment 5 described above, the contact portion 34b that contacts the inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 and the release portion 43 that is disposed on both sides in the width direction X2 of the contact portion 34b and releases the force that acts from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 are provided at the end 34a on the front end side of the plug-side housing 34 that is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, when the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, one of the release portions 43 provided on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end portion 34a of the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 faces the inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. That is, the release portions 43 inclined toward the inner side of the opening 39 among the release portions 43 on both sides in the width direction X2 of the tip end side end portion 34a of the plug side housing 34 inserted in the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in an inclined state face the inner wall 40 on the inner side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32.

The release portion 43 is configured to release the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 by relaxing the force acting from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, the following state is established: the force acts from the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 toward one of the release portions 43 on both sides in the width direction X2 of the front end side end 34a of the plug side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 of the inner wall 40 of the receptacle connector 32 in a relaxed state. Thereby, the end 34a of the plug-side housing 34 of the plug connector 31 is prevented from partially touching the vicinity of the end on the side of the width direction X2 of the inner wall 40 on the back side of the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32. Therefore, the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction rotating about the center position in the width direction X2 in the receptacle connector 32 is suppressed. Further, since the occurrence of a load in the torsion direction in the receptacle connector 32 is suppressed, the occurrence of a load in a portion fixed to the receptacle-side contact 37 of the device to which the receptacle connector 32 is attached is suppressed. Thereby, damage to the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contacts 37 and the device is suppressed, and breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device is suppressed. Further, the occurrence of damage to the receptacle-side housing 38 holding the receptacle-side contacts 37 fixed to the device is suppressed, and the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 32 is also suppressed.

As a result, according to embodiment 5, even when the plug connector 31 is inserted into the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 in a state of being inclined with respect to the fitting direction X1, it is possible to suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32. Further, even when the fitting operation of the plug connector 31 to the receptacle connector 32 is repeated, the accumulation of damage in the fixed portion between the receptacle-side contact 37 and the device can be suppressed, and the breakage of the receptacle connector 32 to the mounting portion of the device can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of damage to the receptacle-side housing 38 holding the receptacle-side contacts 37 fixed to the device, and also to suppress the occurrence of breakage of the receptacle connector 32.

Therefore, according to embodiment 5, the electrical connection device 5 in which the plug connector 31 is fitted to the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 with the gap C2 set in the width direction X2 interposed therebetween can suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32 with respect to the mounting portion of the device, and can also suppress breakage of the receptacle connector 32.

Modification example

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be variously modified within the scope described in the claims. For example, the present invention may be modified as follows.

(1) In the above-described embodiments 1 to 3, the manner in which the cylindrical shell 17 covering the outer periphery of the receptacle-side housing 16 and the opening 18 of the receptacle connector 12 are formed as the opening of the shell are provided in the receptacle connector 12 has been exemplified, but may be different from this example. The following modes can also be implemented: the receptacle connector 12 is not provided with the housing 17, and the receptacle-side housing 16 is provided with the opening 18.

(2) In the above-described embodiments 4 and 5, the metal shell that cylindrically covers the receptacle-side housing 38 is not provided in the receptacle connector 32, and the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is formed as the opening 39 of the receptacle-side housing 38, but this may not be the case. The following modes can also be implemented: the receptacle connector 32 is provided with a metal shell that cylindrically covers the receptacle-side housing 38, and the opening 39 of the receptacle connector 32 is formed as an opening of the shell.

(3) In the above-described embodiments 1 to 5, the case where the plurality of plug-side contacts are arranged in 2 rows in the width direction in the plug connector and the plurality of receptacle connectors are arranged in 2 rows in the width direction in the receptacle connector has been exemplified, but this may not be the case. The following modes can also be implemented: in the plug connector, the plurality of plug-side contacts are arranged in 1 row in the width direction, and in the receptacle connector, the plurality of receptacle connectors are arranged in 1 row in the width direction.

Industrial applicability

The present invention can be widely applied as an electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector fitted and connected to the plug connector.

Claims

1. An electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector for fitting connection with the plug connector, characterized in that,

the socket connector has a plurality of socket side contacts and a socket side housing holding the plurality of socket side contacts, an opening is provided in the socket connector for the plug connector to be inserted and fitted with a gap interposed therebetween,

the gap is set in a width direction which is a direction in which the plurality of receptacle-side contacts are arranged, the width direction being a direction perpendicular to a fitting direction which is a direction in which the plug connector is fitted to the receptacle connector,

the socket-side housing is provided with a receiving portion which is disposed on the inner side of the opening and which has an inner wall which abuts against the end of the plug connector inserted into the opening,

the receiving portion is provided with release portions on both sides in the width direction, the release portions releasing a force acting from an end portion of the plug connector inserted into the opening,

The release portion is configured to release a force acting from an end of the plug connector by preventing abutment with the end of the plug connector to avoid transmission of the force acting from the end of the plug connector or by relaxing the force acting from the end of the plug connector.

2. The electrical connection apparatus of claim 1 wherein,

the release portion is provided as a concave portion recessed toward the inner side of the opening on both sides of the receiving portion in the width direction,

the release portion is configured to release a force from an end of the plug connector by preventing abutment with the end of the plug connector to avoid transmission of the force from the end of the plug connector.

3. An electrical connection device having a plug connector and a receptacle connector for fitting connection with the plug connector, characterized in that,

the plug connector has a plurality of plug-side contacts and a plug-side housing holding the plurality of plug-side contacts, and is configured to be inserted into an opening provided in the receptacle connector with a gap therebetween to be fitted,

the gap is set in a width direction which is a direction in which the plurality of plug-side contacts are arranged, the width direction being a direction perpendicular to a fitting direction which is a direction in which the plug connector is fitted to the receptacle connector,

The plug-side housing is provided with, at an end portion on a front end side inserted into the opening:

an abutting portion that abuts against an inner wall of the opening of the receptacle connector on the inner side; and

a release portion disposed on both sides in the width direction with respect to the abutting portion, for releasing a force acting on the plug connector inserted into the opening from the inner wall,

the release portion is configured to release a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing abutment with the inner wall of the receptacle connector to avoid transmission of a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector or to alleviate a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector.

4. The electrical connection apparatus of claim 3 wherein,

the release portion is provided so as to be recessed stepwise with respect to the contact portion on both sides in the width direction of an end portion of the plug-side housing on the front end side inserted into the opening, toward a side opposite to the front end side of the plug-side housing inserted into the opening,

the release portion is configured to release a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector by preventing abutment with the inner wall of the receptacle connector to avoid transmission of a force acting from the inner wall of the receptacle connector.