JP2008098471A - Optical coupling device and manufacturing method thereof, and electronic apparatus using optical coupling device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To decrease the number of components and to simplify an assembling process. <P>SOLUTION: An optical coupling device comprises two components which are a lead frame 31 where a light emitting element, a light receiving element, a light emitting element mold part 33, and a light receiving element mold part 34 are formed and an encapsulating case 32 having a connector part 37. Then the lead frame 31 is inserted into the encapsulating case up to a predetermined position, and the lead frame 31 and a connector terminal 38 are electrically connected to each other and the lead frame 31 and encapsulating case 32 are coupled with each other through one operation of locking the external connection terminal of the lead frame 31 and an engagement portion of the connector terminal 38 of the encapsulating case 32 with a press rod 71 and a crimping rod. Thus, the number of components is made small and the assembling process is made simpler as compared with an optical coupling device disclosed in claim 1 to reduce the cost. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention provides an optical coupling device (photointerrupter) having a passage of an object on a light path from a light emitting element to a light receiving element to detect the presence or absence of the object or the passage of the object, a manufacturing method thereof, and the optical coupling The present invention relates to an electronic device using the apparatus.

  As a conventional optical coupling device, there is one having a connector connection structure as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 (hereinafter referred to as Conventional Example 1). Further, as a connection structure between a terminal and an electric wire (cable), there is a structure shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 (hereinafter referred to as Conventional Example 2). Hereinafter, the conventional example 1 (Japanese Patent No. 3176696 (Patent Document 1)) and the conventional example 2 will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Conventional example 1: Patent document 1)
In Conventional Example 1, as shown in FIG. 17A, a light receiving element (not shown) and a light emitting element (not shown) are bonded and connected, and the lead frame 1 is molded with a light-transmitting resin. Is bent at an appropriate position so that the light receiving element and the light emitting element are opposed to each other. In FIG. 17A, 2 is a mold resin for the light emitting element, and 3 is a mold resin for the light receiving element. At that time, in the bending process of bending the lead frame 1, one end (cradle) of the lead frame 1 is cut by tie bar cutting to form the connector connecting portions 4, 5, and 6.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 17 (b), the lead frame 1 and the connector are connected by spot welding the connector connecting portions 4, 5, 6 of the lead frame 1 and the pins 8 of the connector 7 (see FIG. 18). 7 is connected.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 18, the lead frame 1 connected to the connector 7 is accommodated in the outer case 9, and the fixing thermoplastic provided in the close contact portion of the outer case 9 with the lead frame 1. The resin pins 10 are inserted through holes (not shown) provided in the lead frame 1, while the connector connecting portions 4, 5, 6 (only the connector connecting portion 4 in FIG. By inserting a fixing thermoplastic resin pin 11 provided in the vicinity of the connector connecting portions 4, 5 and 6 and deforming the thermoplastic resin pins 10 and 11 by heat. The lead frame 1 and the outer case 9 are fixed. In FIG. 18, since the pins 10 and 11 are deformed by heat, the shape of the pin before deformation is not exhibited.

(Conventional example 2)
Conventional Example 2 relates to a crimping method in which a terminal and an electric wire (cable) or an electric wire and an electric wire are electrically connected by mechanically applying high pressure. This crimping method can be roughly divided into two types, a closed barrel type shown in FIG. 19 and an open barrel type shown in FIG. In the case of the closed barrel type, an electric wire is inserted into the barrel portion 22 of the closed barrel terminal 21 and a high pressure is applied to the barrel portion 22 to deform the barrel portion 22 as shown in FIG. To obtain electrical continuity between the closed barrel terminal 21 and the electric wire. In the case of the open barrel type, an electric wire is inserted into the wire barrel portion 24 and the insulation barrel 25 of the open barrel terminal 23, and a high pressure is applied to the wire barrel portion 24 and the insulation barrel 25, so that FIG. ), The barrel portions 24 and 25 are deformed and brought into close contact with each other to obtain electrical continuity between the open barrel terminal 23 and the electric wire.

  As described above, in both cases, the crimp portions (barrel portions 22, 24, 25) into which the electric wires are inserted are deformed and brought into close contact with each other to obtain electrical continuity between the terminals 21 and 23 and the electric wires. 23 and the coupling | bonding force of an electric wire are enlarged. In this way, continuity is obtained by crimping the terminals 21 and 23 and electric wires (cables), and power and signals are exchanged between devices.

  However, the connector connection structure of the conventional optical coupling device and the connection structure between the terminal and the electric wire (cable) have the following problems.

  That is, in the conventional example 1, a process of connecting the connector 7 and the lead frame 1 (spot welding, soldering, etc.) to the individual three points of the lead frame 1, the connector 7 and the outer case 9, and A step (heat caulking) of connecting the lead frame 1 and the connector 7 connected to each other to the outer case 9 is necessary. Therefore, there is a problem that the number of parts is large and the steps required for assembly increase.

In terms of electrical joining, the crimping as in Conventional Example 2 is a very simplified joining method without requiring any member other than the two conductors to be joined. However, the objects to be connected are devices such as connectors and electric wires, terminals and electric wires. Therefore, when connecting an electronic component having a complicated circuit pattern such as a lead frame and a connector, there is a problem that it is necessary to use a process using bonding such as soldering or welding as in Conventional Example 1. is there.
Japanese Patent No. 3176696

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an optical coupling device capable of reducing the number of parts and simplifying the assembly process and further reducing the cost.

In order to solve the above problems, an optical coupling device of the present invention is
A lead frame on which the light emitting element and the light receiving element are mounted to form a predetermined internal connection, and the light emitting element and the light receiving element are sealed with a translucent resin;
An exterior case that has light shielding properties and has a connector portion at one end, and accommodates and integrates the lead frame inside;
An external connection terminal for electrically connecting the lead frame to the outside via the connector portion of the exterior case, and being provided at one end of the lead frame;
Provided at the one end portion of the outer case, one end side is present in the connector portion, while the other end side is provided with a connector terminal that projects from the connector portion into the outer case,
The external connection terminal in the lead frame housed in the exterior case is locked to the other end side of the connector terminal in the exterior case,
The lead frame and the exterior case are locked to each other by a locking portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal.

  According to the said structure, the optical coupling device is comprised by the exterior case which has a connector part, and the lead frame accommodated in this exterior case. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced as compared with the optical coupling device disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  Further, the lead frame and the outer case are provided with a locking portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. Therefore, the engaging portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal can be locked only by housing the lead frame in the outer case and crimping the lead frame. As a result, electrical connection between the lead frame and the connector terminal can be easily performed, and the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case can be simplified.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The lead frame and the outer case are provided with at least one second locking portion different from the first locking portion by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. ,
The lead frame and the exterior case are locked to each other by the first locking portion and the second locking portion.

  According to the above configuration, the lead frame and the outer case are provided with the second locking portion different from the first locking portion by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. Yes. Therefore, the first locking portion and the second locking portion can be locked only by housing the lead frame in the outer case and crimping the lead frame. As a result, the lead frame and the outer case can be engaged with each other by the two locking portions, and a stable coupling structure between the lead frame and the outer case can be obtained.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The second locking portion is
Provided at the other end of the lead frame opposite to the one end and the other end of the outer case opposite to the one end,
The lead frame is inserted into the other end of the outer case from the one end of the lead frame, and is locked when the lead frame is inserted to a predetermined position in the outer case. It has a structure.

  According to this embodiment, when the lead frame is stored in the outer case, the lead frame is inserted by sliding in the longitudinal direction of the lead frame from the other end of the outer case. The load is related to the longitudinal direction of the lead frame. Therefore, the load resistance of the lead frame can be improved, and damage in the assembly process can be prevented.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The second locking portion is
An external holding member provided outwardly projecting at the other end of the lead frame, and for holding the lead frame from the outside;
A holding member is provided at the other end of the exterior case and engages with the external holding member of the lead frame to hold the lead frame from the outside.

  According to this embodiment, the first locking portion by the external connection terminal provided at one end of the lead frame and the connector terminal provided at one end of the exterior case, and the lead frame The lead frame accommodated in the outer case is held at both ends by the second locking portion formed by the external holding member provided at the other end and the holding member provided at the other end of the outer case. Therefore, the holding strength of the lead frame can be increased. Furthermore, by making the first locking portion and the second locking portion have the same structure, the lead frame and the outer case can be engaged in one engagement step.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The second locking portion is
A lead frame side engaging portion formed in the light transmitting resin sealing the light emitting element and the light receiving element in the lead frame;
It is formed of a light-shielding resin that constitutes the outer case, and includes an outer case side engaging portion that engages with the lead frame side engaging portion when the lead frame is accommodated.

  According to this embodiment, in addition to the first locking portion formed by the external connection terminal provided at one end of the lead frame and the connector terminal provided at one end of the exterior case, the lead The lead frame is engaged with the lead frame by the second engaging portion formed by the lead frame side engaging portion formed in the light transmitting resin of the frame and the outer case side engaging portion formed in the light shielding resin of the outer case. The outer case is locked. Therefore, the lead frame and the outer case can be more firmly coupled.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The second locking portion is
An external holding member provided outwardly projecting at the other end of the lead frame, and for holding the lead frame from the outside;
In addition to being provided at the other end portion of the outer case, the lead frame includes a hollow portion into which the external holding member of the lead frame is inserted to hold the lead frame from the outside.

  According to this embodiment, the other end portion of the outer case is provided with a recess portion into which an external holding member provided to project outward from the other end of the lead frame is inserted. Therefore, when the lead frame and the outer case are coupled, the lead frame is rotated around the contact point between the external holding member and the recess after the external holding member is inserted into the recess. Then, by crimping the lead frame to the exterior case, the second locking portion by the external holding member of the lead frame and the recess portion of the exterior case, and the external connection of the lead frame The first locking portion by the terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal of the outer case can be locked in one operation.

  Thus, when the lead frame and the outer case are more firmly coupled, it is possible to prevent a load from being applied to the lead frame and prevent the lead frame from being damaged.

In the optical coupling device of one embodiment,
The one end side of the lead frame is formed at the one end of the translucent resin sealing the light emitting element or the light receiving element, and when the lead frame is inserted into the exterior case And a positioning portion that contacts the wall surface of the connector portion in the outer case and determines the position of the lead frame relative to the outer case.

  According to this embodiment, when the lead frame and the outer case are coupled, the lead frame positioning portion is brought into contact with the wall surface of the connector portion of the outer case, whereby the outer case of the lead frame is obtained. The position with respect to the case can be easily determined.

In addition, this invention
A manufacturing method of the optical coupling device,
Mounting a light emitting element and a light receiving element on a lead frame, and performing a predetermined connection to the light emitting element and the light receiving element;
Forming the mold part and the external connection terminal by molding the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the lead frame with a translucent resin;
Forming an exterior case having a connector portion at one end by injection molding;
Forming a connector terminal in which one end side is present in the connector part and the other end side is projected from the connector part into the outer case in the outer case;
By mounting the lead frame on which the external connection terminal is formed in the outer case on which the connector terminal is formed, the other end side of the external connection terminal of the lead frame and the connector terminal of the outer case And engaging the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal with each other.

  According to the said structure, the optical coupling device is comprised by the exterior case which has a connector part, and the lead frame accommodated in this exterior case. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced as compared with the optical coupling device disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  Further, the lead frame and the outer case are formed with a locking portion by an external connection terminal of the lead frame and a connector terminal of the outer case. Therefore, the mounting portion by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal can be locked only by mounting the lead frame in the exterior case. As a result, electrical connection between the lead frame and the connector terminal can be easily performed, and the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case can be simplified.

In addition, this invention
A manufacturing method of the optical coupling device,
Mounting a light emitting element and a light receiving element on a lead frame, and performing a predetermined connection to the light emitting element and the light receiving element;
Forming the mold part having an engaging part and the external connection terminal by molding the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the lead frame with a translucent resin;
A step of forming an exterior case having a connector part at one end and an engaging part engaged with the engaging part of the lead frame by injection molding;
Forming a connector terminal in which one end side is present in the connector part and the other end side is projected from the connector part into the outer case in the outer case;
By mounting the lead frame in which the locking portion and the external connection terminal are formed in the outer case in which the connector terminal is formed, the locking portion of the lead frame and the locking of the outer case are performed. The external connection terminal of the lead frame and the other end side of the connector terminal of the outer case are engaged with each other, and then the external connection terminal and the other of the connector terminal are engaged with each other. And a step of locking the end sides to each other.

  According to the said structure, the optical coupling device is comprised by the exterior case which has a connector part, and the lead frame accommodated in this exterior case. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced as compared with the optical coupling device disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  In addition, the lead frame and the outer case include an engaging portion formed by an external connection terminal of the lead frame and a connector terminal of the outer case, an engaging portion of the lead frame, and an engaging portion of the outer case. And a locking portion. Accordingly, the first locking portion, the locking portion of the lead frame, and the outer case formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal can be obtained simply by mounting the lead frame in the outer case. It is possible to lock the second locking portion by the locking portion. As a result, electrical connection between the lead frame and the connector terminal can be easily performed, and the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case can be simplified.

  Further, the lead frame and the outer case are engaged with each other by a first locking portion formed by the external connection terminal of the lead frame and the other end side of the connector terminal of the outer case, and the locking of the lead frame. Since this is performed by two locking portions, that is, the second locking portion by the locking portion of the outer case and the outer case, a stable coupling structure between the lead frame and the outer case can be obtained.

The electronic device of the present invention is
The optical coupling device is used.

  According to the above configuration, the number of parts can be reduced, the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case can be simplified, and a stable coupling structure between the lead frame and the outer case can be obtained. Since the optical coupling device that can be used is used, it is possible to more smoothly detect the presence / absence of paper, edge detection of paper, and the like in electronic devices such as copiers and printers.

  As is clear from the above, according to the optical coupling device and the manufacturing method thereof of the present invention, the optical coupling device is constituted by the outer case having the connector portion and the lead frame accommodated in the outer case. Can do. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced as compared with the optical coupling device disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  Further, the lead frame and the outer case are provided with a locking portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. Therefore, the engaging portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal can be locked only by housing the lead frame in the outer case and crimping the lead frame. As a result, electrical connection between the lead frame and the connector terminal can be easily performed, and the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case can be simplified.

  Further, if a second locking portion different from the first locking portion by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal is provided, the lead frame is accommodated in the outer case and crimped. The first locking part and the second locking part can be locked only by doing this. Therefore, by engaging the lead frame and the outer case with the two locking portions of the first locking portion and the second locking portion, the lead frame and the outer case can be engaged with each other. A stable bond structure can be obtained.

  In addition, the electronic device of the present invention can reduce the number of parts, simplify the assembly process of the lead frame and the outer case, and stably connect the lead frame and the outer case. Since the optical coupling device that can obtain the structure is used, in the electronic device such as a copying machine or a printer, the presence / absence detection of the paper, the edge detection of the paper, and the like can be performed more smoothly.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a state before joining the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment. Here, FIG. 1A shows a lead formed by bonding a light receiving element (not shown) and a light emitting element (not shown) to the lead frame main body 40, and then molding the lead frame body 40 with a translucent resin. 3 is a top view of the frame 31. FIG. In addition, 33 is a light emitting element mold part, 34 is a light receiving element mold part. Here, 34 may be a light emitting element mold part, and 33 may be a light receiving element mold part. 1B is a top view of the outer case 32, and FIG. 1C is a view as seen from the front surface (connector portion 37) side of the outer case 32. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, after the light emitting element and the light receiving element are mounted at predetermined positions on the lead frame body 40 by die bonding and wire bonding, the light emitting element and the light receiving element are translucent resin. It is molded with. And in the edge part of the connector side which is the side to which the connector part 37 is connected later in the lead frame 31, the light emitting element mold part 33 molded with the translucent resin protrudes in parallel with each other on both sides. Two positioning portions 35 for determining the position of the lead frame 31 are formed. Further, three external connection terminals 36 are provided to protrude from the light emitting element mold part 33 between the positioning part 35 and the positioning part 35 in the light emitting element mold part 33. In the present embodiment, the state shown in FIG. 1A in which the light emitting element, the light receiving element, the light emitting element mold portion 33, and the light receiving element mold portion 34 are formed on the lead frame main body 40 is the same as the lead frame 31. To say.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1B, a connector portion 37 is provided on the side of the outer case 32 on which the light emitting element mold portion 33 is accommodated. And in the connector part 37, the one end part of the three connector terminals 38 protrudes and is provided. Further, on the outside of the connector portion 37 in the outer case 32, an engaging portion (hereinafter referred to as an engaging portion of the connector terminal 38) with the lead frame 31 on the other end side of the connector terminal 38 protrudes. ing. Further, above the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38, a pressure holding hole through which a pressing bar (die) passes when the external connection terminal 36 of the lead frame 31 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 are locked. 39 is formed. Further, as shown in FIG. 1 (c), each connector terminal 38 has a U-shaped cross-sectional shape with an open lower side.

  2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a state in which the lead frame 31 shown in FIG. 1 (a) is engaged with the outer case 32 shown in FIG. 1 (b) (a cross section taken along the line AA 'in FIG. 1 (b)). Equivalent to the figure). FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of an operation procedure when the external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 are locked.

  FIG. 3A shows a state before the external connection terminal 36 and the engagement portion of the connector terminal 38 are engaged, and as the lead frame 31 is inserted into the exterior case 32 from below the exterior case 32. Thus, the external connection terminal 36 approaches the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 from below the connector terminal 38. FIG. 3B shows a state in which the external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 are engaged, and corresponds to the case of FIG. FIG. 3C shows a state in which the external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 are locked by pressure bonding. In this crimping, the crimping rod 72 rises from below the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38, and the pressing rod 71 descends from above the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 through the crimping pressing hole 39. The presser bar 71 contacts the upper surface of the engaging part of the connector terminal 38 and presses the engaging part of the connector terminal 38 from above, while the crimping bar 72 bends both ends of the engaging part of the connector terminal 38 inward. Then, bend both ends inward. In this way, the external connection terminal 36 of the lead frame 31 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 of the outer case 32 are locked by crimping to obtain electrical connection between the external connection terminal 36 and the connector terminal 38, and the lead frame 31. The outer case 32 is locked.

  Here, in FIGS. 1 and 3, the cross-sectional shape of the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 is U-shaped, but it may be J-shaped as shown in FIG. Even if it is L-shaped (not shown), there is no problem as long as the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 can be crimped and the external connecting terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 can be locked. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, round pins or square pins (not shown) are used as the connector terminals 38, and the external connection terminals 36 of the lead frame 31 are deformed and crimped as shown in FIG. 5 (c). Thus, the external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 may be locked. However, the cross-sectional shape of the crimping surface of the crimping rod 72 needs to be changed according to the cross-sectional shape of the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 or the external connection terminal 36 to be deformed.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the optical coupling device in which the external connection terminal 36 of the lead frame 31 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 of the exterior case 32 are locked will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 2, the exterior case 32 formed of a light-shielding resin houses a light-emitting element storage portion 41 in which the light-emitting element mold portion 33 in the lead frame 31 is stored and a light-receiving element mold portion 34 in the lead frame 31. The light receiving element storage portion 42 is provided. The inclined surface 43 of the light emitting element storage 41 facing the light emitting part of the light emitting element mold part 33 is provided with an inclination of 45 ° so as to reflect the emitted light from the light emitting element mold part 33 at a right angle. It has become. Further, the region 44 where the light reflected by the inclined surface 43 in the light emitting element housing 41 hits is light transmissive, and the light from the inclined surface 43 is led out of the light emitting element housing 41. Yes.

  On the other hand, the light receiving element storage portion 42 is connected to the light emitting element storage portion 41 and the target with respect to a plane orthogonal to the line connecting the light emitting element and the light receiving element in the lead frame 31 at the midpoint between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. It has the structure of. That is, the light transmitted through the light-transmitting region (light-transmitting region) 44 in the light-emitting element storage portion 41 is received from the light-transmitting region (light-transmitting region) 45 in the light-receiving element storage portion 42. It is taken into the part 42. Then, the light taken into the light receiving element housing portion 42 is reflected toward the light receiving element mold portion 34 by the inclined surface 46 provided with the 45 ° inclination, and reaches the light receiving element.

  In the above configuration, the light emitted from the light emitting element is reflected by the inclined surface 43 of the outer case 32 and temporarily emitted into the space 48 serving as an object detection region, as indicated by an optical path 47. The light that has entered the light receiving element storage portion 42 of the outer case 32 again is reflected by the inclined surface 46 and detected by the light receiving element. At this time, when the shielding object 49 is inserted on the optical path 47 of the space 48, the optical path 47 is blocked by the shielding object 49, and light is not detected by the light receiving element. Therefore, the object (shielding object) 49 can be detected.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the optical coupling device includes an exterior case having a lead frame 31 on which the light emitting element, the light receiving element, the light emitting element mold portion 33, and the light receiving element mold portion 34 are formed, and a connector portion 37. 32 and two parts. Then, the lead frame 31 is inserted into the outer case 32 to a predetermined position, and in this state, the external connection terminal 36 and the engagement portion of the connector terminal 38 are locked by the pressing bar 71 and the crimping bar 72. By the operation, conduction between the lead frame main body 40 and the connector terminal 38 and coupling between the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 can be performed.

  Therefore, compared with the optical coupling device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the number of parts can be reduced and the assembling process can be simplified to reduce the cost.

Second Embodiment FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state before the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are coupled in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB ′ in FIG. In the present embodiment, the same members as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a description will be given centering on parts different from the first embodiment.

  FIG. 6A shows a lead frame 31 in which a light emitting element and a light receiving element are molded with a translucent resin. FIG. 6B shows an exterior case 32 having a connector portion 37. In the lead frame 31 in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6A, on both side surfaces of the light receiving element mold portion 34, the anti-light emitting element from the light emitting element mold portion 33 side with respect to this side surface. Protruding portions 51 that protrude with an inclination rising toward the mold portion 33 are formed on both sides. Further, on the inner wall of the outer case 32, an engaging portion (not shown) that engages the protruding portion 51 of the light receiving element mold portion 34 is formed on the surface facing the both side surfaces of the light receiving element mold portion 34. .

  Then, the light emitting element mold part 33 side of the lead frame 31 is inserted into the light receiving element storage part 42 side of the outer case 32, and the lead frame 31 is inserted into the outer case 32 by sliding and pushing. And by inserting until the front-end | tip of the positioning part 35 of the lead frame 31 contact | abuts the outer wall of the connector part 37 in the exterior case 32 (refer FIG. 2), while the protrusion part 51 engages with the said engaging part, Positioning of the lead frame 31 in the vertical direction (the extending direction of the plane including the optical path from the light emitting element to the light receiving element) can be accurately performed. Further, with respect to the lateral direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. 7, the maximum width of the light emitting element mold portion 33 in the lead frame 31 and the light emitting element mold portion 33 provided on the inner wall side in the exterior case 32. By making the width of the slide groove 41a the same, the positioning can be performed accurately.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 7A, ridges 33a are formed on both sides of the light emitting element mold portion 33, and the ridges 33a slide on the slide grooves 41a. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7B, the bottom of the light emitting element mold portion 33 may slide in the slide groove 41a.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6A, the lead frame 31 is formed by separating a light emitting element mold portion 33 and a light receiving element mold portion 34. In general, the thickness of the lead frame main body 52 is several hundred μm or less in order to reduce the amount of conductive members used in the lead frame, and is very thin. Therefore, the lead frame main body 52 is very weak against a load in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the lead frame main body 52 and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 6A) and easily deforms. End up. However, as described above, since the lead frame 31 is slid in the longitudinal direction of the lead frame main body 52 and inserted into the outer case 32, the load resistance can be improved by inserting the lead frame 31 in parallel with equal force. Thus, the lead frame main body 52 can be prevented from being deformed by friction with the outer case 32 during insertion.

  However, in the case of the present embodiment, it is necessary to form grooves for sliding the light emitting element mold part 33 and the light receiving element mold part 34 of the lead frame 31 in the outer case 32. Therefore, the exterior case 32 formed of a light-shielding resin cannot be arranged on a straight line directly connecting the light emitting element and the light receiving element.

Third Embodiment FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a state before the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are coupled to each other in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a method for joining the lead frame 31 to the exterior case 32. In the present embodiment, the same members as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a description will be given centering on parts different from the first embodiment.

  FIG. 8A shows a lead frame 31 in which a light emitting element and a light receiving element are molded with a translucent resin. FIG. 8B shows the upper surface of the outer case 32 having the connector portion 37. In the lead frame 31 in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment, the leading end portions of the two lead frame main bodies 53 protrude from the outer end surface of the light receiving element mold portion 34 to constitute the external holding terminal 54. Further, on the outer surface of the light receiving element storage portion 42 on the upper surface of the exterior case 32, a pressure holding hole 55 having the same configuration as the pressure holding hole 39 formed outside the light emitting element storage portion 41 is formed. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, two holding terminals 56 are formed below the press-fit pressing hole 55 in the outer case 32. The external holding terminal 54 of the lead frame 31 has the same structure as the external connection terminal 36, and the holding terminal 56 of the outer case 32 has the same structure as the connector terminal 38.

  In the above configuration, as shown in FIG. 9, the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are joined by inserting the lead frame 31 from the lower part of the outer case 32, the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38, the external connection terminal 36, and The holding terminal 56 and the external holding terminal 54 are locked simultaneously. In this case, the external holding terminal 54 of the lead frame 31 has the same structure as the external connection terminal 36, and the holding terminal 56 of the outer case 32 has the same structure as the connector terminal 38. As in the case of the embodiment, the external connection terminal 36, the connector terminal 38, the external holding terminal 54, and the holding terminal 56 are formed by the pressing bar that passes through the pressure-bonding pressing hole 39 and the pressure-bonding pressing hole 55 and the pressing bar that ascends. Are simultaneously locked by crimping or the like. However, the external holding terminal 54 and the holding terminal 56 merely have a function of locking the lead frame 31 to the outer case 32 and do not perform electrical connection. Of course, an electrical connection may be made.

  Thus, the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 of the outer case 32 is electrically connected to the external connection terminal 36 of the lead frame 31 so that a signal can be taken out to the outside. At the same time, the engaging portion of the external connection terminal 36 and the connector terminal 38 is pressed on the light emitting element mold portion 33 side, and the external holding terminal 54 and the holding terminal 56 are pressed and locked on the light receiving element mold portion 34 side. The frame 31 and the exterior case 32 are locked and integrated on both sides. Therefore, it can engage more firmly.

  In the structure of the present embodiment, since the lead frame 31 is inserted into the exterior case 32 from the lower part of the exterior case 32, the exterior is formed of a light shielding resin on a straight line directly connecting the light emitting element and the light receiving element. Case 32 can be arranged. Therefore, the exterior case 32 disposed between the light emitting element and the light receiving element can block light directly incident on the light receiving element from the light emitting element, and the light emitting element between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. The detection accuracy of the shielding object on the optical path passing through the storage part 41 and the light receiving element storage part 42 is improved. Such a structure is the same in the following embodiments, and the description thereof is omitted in the following embodiments.

  10 and 11 show another structural example in the present embodiment. FIG. 10 shows a state before the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are joined. FIG. 11 shows a state in which the lead frame 31 is coupled to the outer case 32.

  In this structural example, the lead frame main body 57 in the lead frame 31 is bent at substantially right angles at two locations, and the light emitting element mold portion 33 and the light receiving element mold portion 34 face each other. Therefore, the light emitted from the light emitting element is directly incident on the light receiving element. Therefore, as can be seen from FIG. 11, the light emitting element storage portion 41 and the light receiving element storage portion 42 of the outer case 32 are not provided with an inclined surface for reflecting light, and the light transmitting region 44 and the light transmitting property are not provided. The light emitted from the light emitting element through the region 45 directly enters the light receiving element.

  Also in this case, the external holding terminal 54 of the lead frame 31 has the same structure as the external connection terminal 36, and the holding terminal 56 of the exterior case 32 has the same structure as the connector terminal 38. Then, as shown in FIG. 10, the lead frame 31 is inserted from the lower part of the outer case 32, and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38, the external connection terminal 36, the holding terminal 56 and the external holding terminal 54 are simultaneously locked. The lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are held on both sides and integrated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the lead frame 31 is inserted from the lower side of the exterior case 32, so that the light receiving portion and the light emitting portion are raised from the surface of the lead frame main body 57 as in this structural example. Even so, it can be assembled.

  FIG. 12 shows still another example structure in the present embodiment. FIG. 12A shows a state in which the lead frame 31 is coupled to the outer case 32.

  In this structural example, a light guide 58 is formed on the light emitting element mold portion 33 of the lead frame 31, while a light guide 59 is formed on the light receiving element mold portion 34. FIG. 12B shows an enlarged perspective view of the light guide 58. The light guide 58 is formed of the same translucent resin as that of the light emitting element mold part 33 and has a columnar shape, and a reflection surface 60 having an inclination angle of 90 ° for reflecting light from the light receiving element at the upper end. (Reflecting surface 61 in the light guide 59) is formed. Then, as indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 12A, the light emitted from the light receiving element travels through the light guide 58 and is reflected by the upper reflecting surface (boundary surface with the air) 60 to accommodate the light emitting element. It is emitted to the outside of the outer case 32 through the light transmissive region 44 of the portion 41. Here, the light guide 59 has the same configuration as the light guide 58. Accordingly, when there is no shielding object, the light enters the exterior case 32 again through the light-transmitting region 45 of the light receiving element housing portion 42, is reflected by the reflecting surface 61 on the upper part of the light guide 59, and is detected by the light receiving element. Is done.

  As described above, the two types of structure examples in this embodiment can be similarly applied to the following embodiments. However, description will be omitted in the following embodiments.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, since the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are held at two points, that is, the light emitting element mold part 33 side and the light receiving element mold part 34 side, high holding strength is obtained. Can do. However, since the lead frame 31 is inserted into the outer case 32 from the lower side of the outer case 32, no load is applied to the lead frame main bodies 53 and 57, and stable assembly can be realized.

Fourth Embodiment FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a state before the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are coupled in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a method for coupling the lead frame 31 to the outer case 32. In the present embodiment, the same members as those in the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a description will be given centering on parts different from those in the first to third embodiments.

  FIG. 13A shows a lead frame 31 in which a light emitting element and a light receiving element are molded with a translucent resin. FIG. 13B shows the upper surface of the outer case 32 having the connector portion 37. In the lead frame 31 in the optical coupling device of the present embodiment, the light emitting element mold portion 33 formed by covering the lead frame main body with a translucent resin between the light emitting element mold portion 33 and the light receiving element mold portion 34. The reinforcement part 62 which has the same width | variety is provided. In addition, protrusions 63 are formed on both sides of the light emitting element mold part 33, and protrusions 64 are formed on both sides of the reinforcing part 62. However, in the present embodiment, since the lead frame 31 is inserted into the exterior case 32 from the lower side of the exterior case 32, the protrusions 63 and 64 have an inclination that rises from the upper side to the lower side. .

  On the other hand, at the position corresponding to the protruding portion 63 of the lead frame 31 on the inner wall of the exterior case 32, as shown in FIG. 14, two engaging portions 65 (FIG. 14) with which the two protruding portions 63 engage. (Only one is visible). Similarly, at the position corresponding to the protrusion 64 of the lead frame 31 on the inner wall of the exterior case 32, two engagement portions 66 (only one is visible in FIG. 14) where the two protrusions 64 engage. Is located). As described above, the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 may be engaged with each other at the four positions of the lead frame 31 on the light emitting element mold portion 33 side and the light receiving element mold portion 34 side. The lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 may be engaged at two locations by providing a protruding portion and an engaging portion near the center of the reinforcing portion 62.

  In the above configuration, the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are joined by inserting the lead frame 31 from the lower portion of the outer case 32 and connecting the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 and the external connection terminal 36, as shown in FIG. Lock. At the same time, the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are fixed by engaging the protrusions 63 and 64 provided on the lead frame 31 with the engaging portions 65 and 66 provided on the outer case 32. is there.

  At that time, the load due to the engagement is applied perpendicularly to the surface of the lead frame main body. However, as described above, the reinforcing portion 62 is formed between the light emitting element mold portion 33 and the light receiving element mold portion 34 in the lead frame 31. Therefore, deformation of the lead frame main body, and hence the lead frame 31, can be prevented. However, when the lead frame 31 is not deformed by inserting it in parallel with an equal force when the lead frame 31 is inserted, the presence or absence of the reinforcing portion 62 may be any.

  As described above, the lead frame 31 is inserted into the outer case 32 and locked, and in this state, as in the case of each of the above-described embodiments, the presser that passes through the press-down presser hole 39 and descends. The external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 are engaged by crimping by the rod and the rising crimping rod, and the connection between the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 and electrical conduction are obtained.

Fifth Embodiment FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state before the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are coupled in the optical coupling device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of a method for coupling the lead frame 31 to the outer case 32. In the present embodiment, the same members as those in the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a description will be given centering on parts different from the first to fourth embodiments.

  FIG. 15A shows a lead frame 31 in which a light emitting element and a light receiving element are molded with a translucent resin. As in the case of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, the lead frame 31 in the present embodiment is formed with an external holding terminal 54 in which the leading ends of the two lead frame bodies protrude. ing. FIG. 15B shows the upper surface of the outer case 32 having the connector portion 37.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the lead frame 31 and the outer case 32 are joined by inserting the lead frame 31 into the outer case 32 from the lower part of the outer case 32. In that case, unlike the case of the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment, the lead frame 31 is inclined with respect to the outer case 32, and the external holding terminal 54 of the lead frame 31 is first attached to the outer case 32. The lead frame 31 is inserted into a concave dent 67 provided on the end face on the light receiving element storage portion 42 side, and rotated until the lead frame 31 becomes horizontal with the contact point between the external holding terminal 54 and the concave dent 67 as a fulcrum. A holding bar that holds the external connection terminal 36 and the connecting portion 38 of the connector case 38 of the outer case 32 in that state and passes through the press-down pressing hole 39 and descends in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The ascending crimping rod locks the external connection terminal 36 and the engaging portion of the connector terminal 38 by crimping to obtain electrical continuity.

  By the way, the optical coupling device in each of the above embodiments is very effective when used as a paper detection device such as a printer or a copier. Electronic devices such as printers and copiers have a paper feeding function, and by installing each optical coupling device in each paper feeding mechanism, it is possible to know to which paper feeding mechanism the paper has passed and processed. The electronic device can be processed smoothly. In addition, when a paper jam or the like occurs, the user can be notified of which paper feed mechanism is jammed, and the effect is very great.

It is a figure which shows the state before the coupling | bonding of the lead frame and exterior case in the optical coupling device of this invention. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a state in which the lead frame and the outer case in FIG. 1 are coupled. It is explanatory drawing of the operation | movement procedure at the time of latching the external connection terminal and the engaging part of a connector terminal. It is explanatory drawing of the engaging part of the external connection terminal and connector terminal different from FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the engaging part of the external connection terminal and connector terminal different from FIG. 3 and FIG. It is a figure which shows the state before the coupling | bonding of the lead frame and exterior case in the optical coupling device different from FIG. It is BB 'arrow sectional drawing in FIG. It is a figure which shows the state before the coupling | bonding of the lead frame and exterior case in the optical coupling device different from FIG. 1 and FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the coupling | bonding method of the exterior case and lead frame in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a structure different from the exterior case and lead frame in FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the state which engaged the exterior case and lead frame in FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another configuration example of the exterior case and the lead frame in FIG. 9. It is a figure which shows the state before the coupling | bonding of the lead frame and exterior case in the optical coupling device different from FIG.1, FIG.6, FIG.8, FIG.10 and FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the coupling | bonding method of the exterior case and lead frame in FIG. It is a figure which shows the state before the coupling | bonding of the lead frame and exterior case in the optical coupling device different from FIG.1, FIG.6, FIG.8, FIG.10, FIG.12 and FIG. FIG. 16 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a method for joining the outer case and the lead frame in FIG. 15. It is explanatory drawing of the connector connection structure in the conventional optical coupling device. FIG. 18 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a state in which the mutually connected connector and lead frame shown in FIG. 17 are housed in an exterior case. It is explanatory drawing of a closed barrel terminal. It is explanatory drawing of an open barrel terminal.

Explanation of symbols

31 ... Lead frame,
32 ... exterior case,
33 ... Light emitting element mold part,
34. Light receiving element mold part,
35 ... positioning part,
36: External connection terminal,
37 ... Connector part,
38 ... Connector terminal,
39, 55 ... Crimp presser hole,
40, 52, 53, 57 ... lead frame body,
41 ... Light emitting element storage part,
42. Light receiving element housing,
43,46 ... inclined surface,
44, 45 ... light transmissive region,
47: Optical path,
48 ... space,
49. Shield,
51, 63, 64 ... protrusions,
54 ... External holding terminal,
56: Holding terminal,
58,59 ... Light guide,
60, 61 ... reflective surface,
62 ... reinforcing part,
65, 66 ... engaging portion,
67 ... concave depression
71 ... Presser bar,
72: Crimp bar.

Claims (10)

A lead frame on which the light emitting element and the light receiving element are mounted to form a predetermined internal connection, and the light emitting element and the light receiving element are sealed with a translucent resin;
An exterior case that has light shielding properties and has a connector portion at one end, and accommodates and integrates the lead frame inside;
An external connection terminal for electrically connecting the lead frame to the outside via the connector portion of the exterior case, and being provided at one end of the lead frame;
Provided at the one end portion of the outer case, one end side is present in the connector portion, while the other end side is provided with a connector terminal that projects from the connector portion into the outer case,
The external connection terminal in the lead frame housed in the exterior case is locked to the other end side of the connector terminal in the exterior case,
The optical coupling device, wherein the lead frame and the outer case are locked to each other by a locking portion formed by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. The optical coupling device according to claim 1,
The lead frame and the outer case are provided with at least one second locking portion different from the first locking portion by the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal. ,
The optical coupling device, wherein the lead frame and the outer case are locked to each other by the first locking portion and the second locking portion. The optical coupling device according to claim 2,
The second locking portion is
Provided at the other end of the lead frame opposite to the one end and the other end of the outer case opposite to the one end,
The lead frame is inserted into the other end of the outer case from the one end of the lead frame, and is locked when the lead frame is inserted to a predetermined position in the outer case. An optical coupling device characterized by having a structure. The optical coupling device according to claim 2,
The second locking portion is
An external holding member provided outwardly projecting at the other end of the lead frame, and for holding the lead frame from the outside;
An optical coupling device comprising: a holding member that is provided at the other end of the outer case and that engages with the external holding member of the lead frame to hold the lead frame from the outside. . The optical coupling device according to claim 2,
The second locking portion is
A lead frame side engaging portion formed in the light transmitting resin sealing the light emitting element and the light receiving element in the lead frame;
It is formed of a light-shielding resin that constitutes the outer case, and includes an outer case-side engaging portion that engages with the lead frame-side engaging portion when the lead frame is stored. An optical coupling device. The optical coupling device according to claim 2,
The second locking portion is
An external holding member provided outwardly projecting at the other end of the lead frame, and for holding the lead frame from the outside;
An optical coupling device comprising: a recess portion that is provided at the other end portion of the exterior case and that holds the lead frame from outside by inserting the external holding member of the lead frame. The optical coupling device according to claim 1,
The one end side of the lead frame is formed at the one end of the translucent resin sealing the light emitting element or the light receiving element, and when the lead frame is inserted into the exterior case An optical coupling device comprising: a positioning portion that contacts a wall surface of the connector portion of the outer case and determines a position of the lead frame relative to the outer case. It is a manufacturing method of the optical coupling device according to claim 1,
Mounting a light emitting element and a light receiving element on a lead frame, and performing a predetermined connection to the light emitting element and the light receiving element;
Forming the mold part and the external connection terminal by molding the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the lead frame with a translucent resin;
Forming an exterior case having a connector portion at one end by injection molding;
Forming a connector terminal in which one end side is present in the connector part and the other end side is projected from the connector part into the outer case in the outer case;
By mounting the lead frame on which the external connection terminal is formed in the outer case on which the connector terminal is formed, the other end side of the external connection terminal of the lead frame and the connector terminal of the outer case And a step of engaging the external connection terminal and the other end side of the connector terminal with each other after engaging each other. It is a manufacturing method of the optical coupling device according to claim 2,
Mounting a light emitting element and a light receiving element on a lead frame, and performing a predetermined connection to the light emitting element and the light receiving element;
Forming the mold part having an engaging part and the external connection terminal by molding the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the lead frame with a translucent resin;
A step of forming an exterior case having a connector part at one end and an engaging part engaged with the engaging part of the lead frame by injection molding;
Forming a connector terminal in which one end side is present in the connector part and the other end side is projected from the connector part into the outer case in the outer case;
By mounting the lead frame in which the locking portion and the external connection terminal are formed in the outer case in which the connector terminal is formed, the locking portion of the lead frame and the locking of the outer case are performed. The external connection terminal of the lead frame and the other end side of the connector terminal of the outer case are engaged with each other, and then the external connection terminal and the other of the connector terminal are engaged with each other. And a step of locking the end sides to each other.   An electronic apparatus using the optical coupling device according to claim 1.

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