JP6444464B2

JP6444464B2 - Rotating connector

Info

Publication number: JP6444464B2
Application number: JP2017178583A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 暢齊; 穎高; 志鵬高; 健志林
Original assignee: Alps Electric Co Ltd
Current assignee: Alps Alpine Co Ltd
Priority date: 2016-12-30
Filing date: 2017-09-19
Publication date: 2018-12-26
Anticipated expiration: 2037-09-19
Also published as: CN206322944U; DE202017107859U1; JP2018110095A

Description

本発明は、自動車などのステアリング装置に設けられてエアバッグシステムなどの電気的接続機構として用いられる回転コネクタに関し、特に、回転コネクタ中の部材同士が接続される際に使用されるフック接続構造に関する。 The present invention relates to a rotary connector that is provided in a steering device such as an automobile and is used as an electrical connection mechanism such as an airbag system, and more particularly to a hook connection structure that is used when members in a rotary connector are connected to each other. .

回転コネクタは、外形が略環状であり、ステアリング操作部の回転に伴って回転する環状の回転ケース（可動側ケース）と、前記回転ケースの下方に設けられ且つ前記環状の回転ケースを回転自在に支持する固定ケース（固定側ケース）とを含む。通常、固定ケースは、円筒状の外筒体と、下方から外筒体を支持する底面部材とで構成され、且つ外筒体と底面部材との間は、複数のフック接続構造により固定される。 The rotary connector has a substantially annular outer shape, and is provided with an annular rotary case (movable side case) that rotates as the steering operation unit rotates, and is provided below the rotary case and allows the annular rotary case to freely rotate. And a fixed case (fixed side case) to be supported. Usually, the fixed case is composed of a cylindrical outer cylinder and a bottom member that supports the outer cylinder from below, and the outer cylinder and the bottom member are fixed by a plurality of hook connection structures. .

図１は、従来の回転コネクタにおける固定ケースの分解斜視図である。図１中の固定ケース１は、略円筒状の外筒体２と、下方から外筒体を支持する底面部材３とで構成され、外筒体２と底面部材３との間は、５つのフック接続構造４により固定され得る。各フック接続構造４は、外筒体２に設置される係合突起５および底面部材３に設置される係止片６により構成される。係止片６は、係合突起５を収納可能な貫通孔６ａを有し、図１における各係合突起５をそれぞれ対応する貫通孔６ａに係合させることで、外筒体２と底面部材３とを固定することができる。 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a fixed case in a conventional rotary connector. A fixed case 1 in FIG. 1 includes a substantially cylindrical outer cylindrical body 2 and a bottom surface member 3 that supports the outer cylindrical body from below, and there are five spaces between the outer cylindrical body 2 and the bottom surface member 3. It can be fixed by the hook connection structure 4. Each hook connection structure 4 includes an engagement protrusion 5 installed on the outer cylinder 2 and a locking piece 6 installed on the bottom member 3. The locking piece 6 has a through hole 6a in which the engaging protrusion 5 can be accommodated. By engaging each engaging protrusion 5 in FIG. 1 with the corresponding through hole 6a, the outer cylindrical body 2 and the bottom member 3 can be fixed.

図１に示される構造について言えば、外筒体２と底面部材３とが上下方向の力のみを受ける場合、係止片６は、係合突起５から離脱し難い。しかし、底面部材３が力を受けて係止片６が径方向外側へ変形させられた場合、係止片６は、係合突起５から離脱し易い。例えば、ある場合に図１中の底面部材３の一部３ａが矢印Ａの方向からの力を受けると、底面部材３は、弾性変形することができ、これにより、図１における該一部３ａに近い２つの係止片６は、径方向外側へ変形する傾向があり、係止片６は、係合突起５から離脱する可能性がある。よって、従来の回転コネクタのフック接続構造は、部材が変形すると、フック接続構造が離脱し易い問題がある。 Speaking of the structure shown in FIG. 1, when the outer cylindrical body 2 and the bottom surface member 3 receive only a vertical force, the locking piece 6 is unlikely to be detached from the engaging protrusion 5. However, when the bottom surface member 3 receives a force and the locking piece 6 is deformed radially outward, the locking piece 6 is easily detached from the engagement protrusion 5. For example, in some cases, when the part 3a of the bottom surface member 3 in FIG. 1 receives a force from the direction of the arrow A, the bottom surface member 3 can be elastically deformed, whereby the part 3a in FIG. The two locking pieces 6 that are close to each other tend to deform outward in the radial direction, and the locking pieces 6 may be detached from the engaging protrusions 5. Therefore, the conventional hook connection structure of the rotary connector has a problem that the hook connection structure is easily detached when the member is deformed.

本発明は、部材が変形してもフック接続構造が離脱し難い回転コネクタを提供する。 The present invention provides a rotary connector in which the hook connection structure is not easily detached even if the member is deformed.

本発明の回転コネクタは、外筒体および底面部材を有し、前記外筒体が複数のフック接続構造により前記底面部材に固定される固定側ケースと、前記固定側ケースに対して回転軸を中心に回転自在に連結された可動側ケースと、を備える回転コネクタであり、前記複数のフック接続構造における少なくとも1つのフック接続構造は、前記外筒体に設置された第１係合部および前記底面部材に設置された第２係合部を含み、前記外筒体と前記底面部材とが組立てられた状態で、前記第２係合部は、前記第１係合部より前記回転コネクタの前記回転軸に近く、前記底面部材は、一体成形された環状支持部と延出部とを有し、前記環状支持部の上表面は、前記外筒体の環状底面を支持し、前記延出部は、前記環状支持部の外側に位置し、且つ前記環状支持部の外周の少なくとも一部に接続され、前記少なくとも１つのフック接続構造の前記第２係合部は、前記環状支持部の外周における、前記延出部に接続される接続部分、又は、前記接続部分の周辺に設けられ、前記フック接続構造は、前記回転軸の方向に延設され、前記第２係合部は、前記延出部の上表面が存在する平面の下方に位置し、前記少なくとも１つのフック接続構造の前記第２係合部は、前記延出部において前記上表面が存在する平面よりも下方に凹んで形成された凹部の内部に設けられている。 The rotary connector of the present invention has an outer cylindrical body and a bottom member, and a fixed side case in which the outer cylindrical body is fixed to the bottom surface member by a plurality of hook connection structures, and a rotary shaft with respect to the fixed side case. And a movable side case rotatably connected to the center, wherein at least one hook connection structure in the plurality of hook connection structures includes a first engagement portion installed in the outer cylinder and the A second engaging portion installed on the bottom surface member, wherein the second cylindrical engaging portion and the bottom surface member are assembled together, and the second engaging portion is more than the first engaging portion of the rotary connector. rather close to the rotation axis, the bottom member has a integrally molded annular supporting portion and the extending portion, the top surface of the annular supporting portion supports the annular bottom surface of the outer cylindrical body, leaving the extension The part is located outside the annular support part, and the annular part Connected to at least a part of the outer periphery of the support part, and the second engagement part of the at least one hook connection structure is connected to the extension part on the outer periphery of the annular support part, or Provided around the connection portion, the hook connection structure extends in the direction of the rotation shaft, the second engagement portion is located below a plane on which an upper surface of the extension portion exists, The second engagement portion of at least one hook connection structure is provided in a recess formed in the extension portion so as to be recessed below a plane on which the upper surface exists.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにおいて、前記第１係合部は、前記第２係合部と対向する、前記外筒体の一部に設けられてもよい。 Moreover, the rotary connector of this invention WHEREIN: The said 1st engaging part may be provided in a part of said outer cylinder body facing the said 2nd engaging part.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにおいて、前記回転軸の方向に、前記フック接続構造は、前記延出部の上表面が存在する平面の上方に位置してもよい。 Moreover, the rotary connector of this invention WHEREIN: The said hook connection structure may be located above the plane in which the upper surface of the said extension part exists in the direction of the said rotating shaft.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにおいて、前記第２係合部は、前記環状支持部の外周から前記回転軸から遠い側へ突出する係合突起を有し、前記第１係合部は、前記回転軸に近づく方向に前記第１係合部を貫通する貫通部を有し、前記貫通部は、前記組立てられた状態で前記係合突起を収納できてもよい。 In the rotary connector according to the aspect of the invention, the second engagement portion includes an engagement protrusion that protrudes from the outer periphery of the annular support portion to the side far from the rotation shaft, and the first engagement portion is the rotation member. has a through portion that penetrates the first engagement portion in a direction toward the axis, the through portion may be stored the engaging protrusion in the assembled state.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにおいて、前記第１係合部は、該第１係合部の、回転軸に面する側から前記回転軸から遠い側へ凹む凹部を有し、前記第２係合部は、環状支持部の外周から前記回転軸から遠い側へ突出する係合突起を有し、前記組立てられた状態で前記凹部は前記係合突起を収納できてもよい。 Further, in the rotary connector of the present invention , the first engagement portion has a recess that is recessed from the side facing the rotation shaft to the side far from the rotation shaft of the first engagement portion, and the second engagement portion. The part may have an engaging protrusion that protrudes from the outer periphery of the annular support part to the side far from the rotation shaft, and the recessed part may be able to store the engaging protrusion in the assembled state.

本発明の回転コネクタにより、底面部材に設置された第２係合部は、外筒体に設置された第１係合部よりも回転コネクタの回転軸に近いため、底面部材が径方向外側へ弾性変形しても、このような変形は、第１係合部を第２係合部から離脱させることなく、逆に第１係合部と第２係合部との係合をより強くさせることができ、安定なフック接続構造が得られる。 According to the rotary connector of the present invention , the second engagement portion installed on the bottom member is closer to the rotation axis of the rotary connector than the first engagement portion installed on the outer cylinder, so that the bottom member moves radially outward. Even if elastically deformed, such deformation does not cause the first engaging portion to be disengaged from the second engaging portion, but conversely increases the engagement between the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion. And a stable hook connection structure can be obtained.

また、底面部材が環状支持部と延出部とを有する場合、従来のフック接続構造が採用される場合、延出部が下向きの力を受けて底面部材が変形する際に、底面部材の環状支持部の外周における、延出部と繋がる接続部分又は該接続部分の周辺に位置する第２係合部は、径方向外側に向けて変形し、この変形により第２係合部は、第１係合部から離脱し易い。言い換えると、この際にフック接続構造の第２係合部の変形方向は、第２係合部が第１係合部から離脱する方向と一致している。 In addition, when the bottom surface member has an annular support portion and an extension portion, when the conventional hook connection structure is adopted, when the extension portion receives a downward force and the bottom surface member deforms, the bottom surface member has an annular shape. The connection part connected to the extension part on the outer periphery of the support part or the second engagement part located in the periphery of the connection part is deformed outward in the radial direction. Easy to disengage from the engaging portion. In other words, at this time, the deformation direction of the second engagement portion of the hook connection structure coincides with the direction in which the second engagement portion is detached from the first engagement portion.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにより、延出部が下向きの力を受ける場合、接続部分又は該接続部分の周辺に位置する第２係合部が径方向外側に向けて変形しても、接続部分又は該接続部分の周辺に位置するフック接続構造が離脱することがない。この際にフック接続構造の第２係合部の変形方向は、第２係合部と第１係合部との係合をよりきつくする方向であり、両者を離脱させる方向ではない。これにより、環状支持部の接続部分又は該接続部分の周辺に位置するフック接続構造が離脱することを有効に防止できる。 Further, when the extending portion receives a downward force by the rotary connector of the present invention , even if the connecting portion or the second engaging portion located around the connecting portion is deformed radially outward, the connecting portion Or the hook connection structure located in the periphery of this connection part does not detach | leave. At this time, the deformation direction of the second engagement portion of the hook connection structure is a direction in which the engagement between the second engagement portion and the first engagement portion is tightened, and is not a direction in which both are separated. Thereby, it can prevent effectively that the connection part of the annular support part or the hook connection structure located in the periphery of this connection part detaches | leaves.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにより、フック接続構造は、前記延出部の上表面が存在する平面の下方に位置しても良く、前記延出部の上表面が存在する平面の上方に位置しても良い。そして、フック接続構造が前記延出部の上表面が存在する平面の下方に位置する場合、回転軸の方向（即ち、延出部の厚さ方向）に、フック接続構造と延出部とは、ほぼ同じ位置に位置し、フック接続構造を設置しない場合と比べても、延出部の上表面の上方の空間を余計に占用することがない。 Further, according to the rotary connector of the present invention , the hook connection structure may be located below the plane where the upper surface of the extension part exists, or located above the plane where the upper surface of the extension part exists. May be. When the hook connection structure is located below the plane on which the upper surface of the extension part exists, the hook connection structure and the extension part in the direction of the rotation axis (that is, the thickness direction of the extension part) As compared with the case where the hook connection structure is not installed at the substantially same position, the space above the upper surface of the extension portion is not occupied.

また、本発明の回転コネクタにより、第１係合部と第２係合部との具体的な形状は、第１係合部が貫通部を有し、且つ第２係合部が係合突起を有する組合せでも良く、第１係合部が凹部を有し、且つ第２係合部が係合突起を有する組合せでも良い。
Further, according to the rotary connector of the present invention , the specific shapes of the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are such that the first engagement portion has a through portion and the second engagement portion is an engagement protrusion. Or a combination in which the first engagement portion has a recess and the second engagement portion has an engagement protrusion.

従来の回転コネクタの固定側ケースを示す分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the stationary side case of the conventional rotation connector. 本発明の回転コネクタの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the rotation connector of the present invention. 本発明の回転コネクタの分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the rotation connector of this invention. 本発明の回転コネクタの底面部材が組立てられた状態を示す斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the state by which the bottom face member of the rotation connector of this invention was assembled. 本発明の回転コネクタの第１フック接続構造の分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the 1st hook connection structure of the rotation connector of this invention. 図４におけるＭ平面に沿った断面図である。It is sectional drawing along the M plane in FIG. 変形例１の第１係合部を示す斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the 1st engaging part of the modification 1. FIG. 変形例１の第１フック接続構造を示す断面図である。It is sectional drawing which shows the 1st hook connection structure of the modification 1. 変形例２の第１フック接続構造を示す斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the 1st hook connection structure of the modification 2. 変形例２の第１フック接続構造を示す分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the 1st hook connection structure of the modification 2.

（第１実施形態）
以下、図２〜図６を参照して本発明の第１実施形態を説明する。 (First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

図２は、本発明の第１実施形態の回転コネクタの斜視図である。図３は、図２に示す回転コネクタの分解斜視図である。 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rotary connector according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the rotary connector shown in FIG.

図２、図３に示すように、本実施形態の回転コネクタは、主に、外部のステアリング操作部（図示せず）の回転に伴って回転する環状の可動側ケースである回転ケース１０と、回転ケース１０の下方に設けられ、且つ回転ケース１０を回転自在に支持可能な固定側ケースである固定ケース２０と、を含む。 As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the rotary connector of the present embodiment mainly includes a rotary case 10 that is an annular movable side case that rotates in accordance with the rotation of an external steering operation unit (not shown), And a fixed case 20 that is provided below the rotary case 10 and is a fixed side case that can rotatably support the rotary case 10.

また、回転コネクタは、さらに、回転ケース１０と固定ケース２０との間に回動自在に配置されるブラケット３０を有する。ブラケット３０は、合成樹脂の成型品であり、回動自在な環状板部３０ａと、該環状板部３０ａに立設される回転可能な複数のローラ３０ｂと、を有する。ローラ３０ｂに巻かれて設置される少なくとも１つのフラットケーブル（図示せず）により、固定ケース２０と、ハンドル（図示せず）に連結される回転ケース１０との間の電気的な接続を行う。フラットケーブルは、エアバッグシステム又は電話回線（telephone circuit）などの電気信号の伝送に用いられても良く、各種のステアリングスイッチの電気信号の伝送に用いられてもよい。 Further, the rotary connector further includes a bracket 30 that is rotatably disposed between the rotary case 10 and the fixed case 20. The bracket 30 is a molded product of a synthetic resin, and includes a rotatable annular plate portion 30a and a plurality of rotatable rollers 30b provided upright on the annular plate portion 30a. Electrical connection between the fixed case 20 and the rotating case 10 connected to the handle (not shown) is performed by at least one flat cable (not shown) wound around the roller 30b. The flat cable may be used for transmission of electrical signals such as an air bag system or a telephone circuit, and may be used for transmission of electrical signals of various steering switches.

回転ケース１０は、合成樹脂製の上部回転子１１及び下部回転子１２を含み、下部回転子１２は、フック接続構造により上部回転子１１と一体化される。上部回転子１１は、固定ケース２０と対向して設置される円環状の天板部１１ａと、該天板部１１ａの中央から垂下する内筒部１１ｂと、を有し、内筒部１１ｂの内径は、ステアリング操作部のステアリングシャフト（図示せず）が挿入可能なサイズに設定される。下部回転子１２は、ステアリングシャフトが挿入可能な略円筒状に形成され、そして、下部回転子１２を摺動自在に固定ケース２０の内周縁部と係合させることにより、回転ケース１０を回転自在に固定ケース２０に連結する。 The rotating case 10 includes an upper rotor 11 and a lower rotor 12 made of synthetic resin, and the lower rotor 12 is integrated with the upper rotor 11 by a hook connection structure. The upper rotor 11 has an annular top plate portion 11a installed to face the fixed case 20, and an inner cylinder portion 11b hanging from the center of the top plate portion 11a. The inner diameter is set to a size in which a steering shaft (not shown) of the steering operation unit can be inserted. The lower rotor 12 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape into which the steering shaft can be inserted, and the lower case 12 is slidably engaged with the inner peripheral edge of the fixed case 20 to freely rotate the rotary case 10. To the fixed case 20.

固定ケース２０は、合成樹脂製の底面部材２１と外筒体２２とを含み、底面部材２１及び外筒体２２は、複数のフック接続構造４０により連結されている。そして、構造の違いに応じて、図２および図３におけるフック接続構造４０は、２種類のフック接続構造に分けられる。なお、底面部材２１、外筒体２２、フック接続構造４０の詳細構造について、図２〜図７を参照して後述する。 The fixed case 20 includes a bottom member 21 made of synthetic resin and an outer cylinder 22, and the bottom member 21 and the outer cylinder 22 are connected by a plurality of hook connection structures 40. And according to the difference in structure, the hook connection structure 40 in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 is divided into two types of hook connection structures. The detailed structure of the bottom member 21, the outer cylinder 22, and the hook connection structure 40 will be described later with reference to FIGS.

また、天板部１１ａに、さらに電気信号を伝送するための可動側接続部１３が設けられ、底面部材２１と外筒体２２の円周外側に、さらに電気信号を伝送するための固定側接続部２３が設けられる。図示しないフラットケーブルの長手方向の一方の端部は、固定側接続部２３内に組み込まれたリードブロック（図示せず）と電気的に接続され、他方の端部は、可動側接続部１３内に組み込まれたリードブロック（図示せず）と電気的に接続される。 In addition, a movable side connection portion 13 for transmitting an electric signal is further provided on the top plate portion 11a, and a fixed side connection for further transmitting an electric signal is provided on the outer circumference of the bottom surface member 21 and the outer cylindrical body 22. A portion 23 is provided. One end of the flat cable (not shown) in the longitudinal direction is electrically connected to a lead block (not shown) incorporated in the fixed side connecting portion 23, and the other end is in the movable side connecting portion 13. Is electrically connected to a lead block (not shown) incorporated in the.

また、図２および図３に示すように、回転コネクタは、さらに外部係止部材５０を備え、天板部１１ａに係止凹部１１ｃが設けられ、外筒体２２に係止部材挿入部２２ａが設けられる。ロック状態では、外部係止部材５０が係止部材挿入部２２ｂに挿入され、且つ係止凹部１１ｃに嵌合されている。外部係止部材５０は、回転コネクタとステアリングシャフトとが組み立てられる前（例えば、回転コネクタが単体で運送される段階）に回転コネクタが中立位置にあるように維持するために用いられる。回転コネクタとステアリングシャフトとが組み立てられた後、外部係止部材５０は、取り外される。 2 and 3, the rotary connector further includes an external locking member 50, the top plate portion 11a is provided with a locking recess 11c, and the outer cylinder 22 has a locking member insertion portion 22a. Provided. In the locked state, the external locking member 50 is inserted into the locking member insertion portion 22b and is fitted into the locking recess 11c. The external locking member 50 is used to keep the rotary connector in the neutral position before the rotary connector and the steering shaft are assembled (for example, when the rotary connector is transported alone). After the rotary connector and the steering shaft are assembled, the external locking member 50 is removed.

以下、図２〜図６を参照しながら、底面部材２１、外筒体２２、フック接続構造４０の詳細構造を説明する。図４は、本発明の回転コネクタの底面部材が組立てられた状態の斜視図である。図５は、本発明の回転コネクタの第１フック接続構造の分解斜視図である。図６は、図４におけるＭ平面に沿った断面図である。 Hereinafter, the detailed structure of the bottom member 21, the outer cylindrical body 22, and the hook connection structure 40 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a state where the bottom member of the rotary connector of the present invention is assembled. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first hook connection structure of the rotary connector of the present invention. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane M in FIG.

図３に示すように、底面部材２１は、一体成形されている環状支持部２４と延出部２５とを含み、環状支持部２４の上表面は、外筒体２２の環状底面を支持し、延出部２５は、環状支持部２４の外側に位置するとともに、環状支持部２４の外周の少なくとも一部と繋がる。環状支持部２４の外周における、延出部２５と繋がる接続部分（即ち、環状支持部２４と延出部２５との境目面）は、環状支持部２４の円筒状の外周における一部の領域である。ここで、環状支持部２４の外周とは、環状支持部２４の上表面の外周と下表面面の外周とを連結する円筒状の外側壁である。本実施形態において、回転軸の方向から見た場合、延出部２５は、不規則な形状に形成され、環状支持部２４と繋がる側の形状は、環状支持部２４の外周に沿った一部である。 As shown in FIG. 3, the bottom member 21 includes an annular support portion 24 and an extension portion 25 that are integrally molded, and the upper surface of the annular support portion 24 supports the annular bottom surface of the outer cylindrical body 22, The extension part 25 is located outside the annular support part 24 and is connected to at least a part of the outer periphery of the annular support part 24. A connection portion (that is, a boundary surface between the annular support portion 24 and the extension portion 25) connected to the extension portion 25 on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 is a partial region on the cylindrical outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. is there. Here, the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 is a cylindrical outer wall that connects the outer periphery of the upper surface of the annular support portion 24 and the outer periphery of the lower surface surface. In the present embodiment, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis, the extending portion 25 is formed in an irregular shape, and the shape on the side connected to the annular support portion 24 is a part along the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. It is.

また、固定側接続部２３は、外筒体２２と一体成形された上半分と、底面部材２１と一体成形された下半分とで構成され、そのうち、底面部材２１と一体成形された下半分は、環状支持部２４の外側に位置するとともに、環状支持部２４の外周の少なくとも一部と繋がる。環状支持部２４の外周における、固定側接続部２３と繋がる接続部分（即ち、環状支持部２４と固定側接続部２３との境目面）は、環状支持部２４の円筒状の外周における一部の領域である。本実施形態において、回転軸の方向から見た場合、固定側接続部２３の下半分は、不規則な形状に形成され、環状支持部２４と繋がる側の形状は、環状支持部２４の外周に沿った一部である。本実施形態において、延出部２５と固定側接続部２３とは、環状支持部２４の外周上で隣接して配置される。 The fixed-side connecting portion 23 is composed of an upper half integrally formed with the outer cylindrical body 22 and a lower half integrally formed with the bottom surface member 21, of which the lower half integrally formed with the bottom surface member 21 is In addition to being located outside the annular support portion 24, it is connected to at least a part of the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. A connection portion (that is, a boundary surface between the annular support portion 24 and the fixed side connection portion 23) connected to the fixed side connection portion 23 on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 is a part of the cylindrical outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. It is an area. In the present embodiment, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis, the lower half of the fixed-side connection portion 23 is formed in an irregular shape, and the shape on the side connected to the annular support portion 24 is formed on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. Part along. In the present embodiment, the extension part 25 and the fixed side connection part 23 are disposed adjacent to each other on the outer periphery of the annular support part 24.

図４および図５に示すように、フック接続構造４０は、外筒体２２に設置された係止片（第１係合部）４１と、底面部材２１に設置された係合突起（第２係合部）４２とを含み、係止片４１と係合突起４２とにより第１フック接続構造が構成される。 As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the hook connection structure 40 includes an engagement piece (first engagement portion) 41 installed on the outer cylinder 22 and an engagement protrusion (second engagement) installed on the bottom member 21. Engagement portion) 42, and the locking piece 41 and the engagement protrusion 42 constitute a first hook connection structure.

そして、該第１フック接続構造は、環状支持部２４と延出部２５とが繋がる接続部分に設けられる。具体的には、本実施形態では、一つの第１フック接続構造のみが設置され、係合突起４２は、環状支持部２４の外周における、延出部２５と繋がる接続部分に設けられ、係止片４１は、係合突起４２に対向して設置される外筒体２２の一部に設けられる。なお、図４に示すように、環状支持部２４の外周における、延出部２５と繋がる接続部分で係止部材挿入部２２ａも設けられる。 The first hook connection structure is provided at a connection portion where the annular support portion 24 and the extension portion 25 are connected. Specifically, in the present embodiment, only one first hook connection structure is installed, and the engagement protrusion 42 is provided at a connection portion connected to the extension portion 25 on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 and is locked. The piece 41 is provided on a part of the outer cylindrical body 22 that is installed to face the engagement protrusion 42. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the locking member insertion part 22a is also provided in the connection part connected with the extension part 25 in the outer periphery of the cyclic | annular support part 24. As shown in FIG.

具体的には、係合突起４２は、環状支持部２４の外周から外筒体２２の径方向外側（回転軸Ｋから遠い側）へ突出し、係止片４１は、略門状（図３参照）に形成され、外筒体２２の径方向（回転軸Ｋに近づく方向）に該係止片４１を貫通した貫通部４１ａを備える（図５参照）。図２および図４の組立てられた状態で、貫通部４１ａは、係合突起４２を収納できる。そして、図６に示すように、外筒体２２と底面部材２１とが組立てられた状態で、係合突起４２は、係止片４１よりも回転コネクタの回転軸Ｋに近い。言い換えると、係合突起４２は、回転軸Ｋに近い側から径方向外側に向かって突出して係止片４１と係合される。 Specifically, the engagement protrusion 42 protrudes from the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 to the radially outer side of the outer cylindrical body 22 (the side far from the rotation axis K), and the locking piece 41 has a substantially gate shape (see FIG. 3). ), And includes a penetrating portion 41a penetrating the locking piece 41 in the radial direction of the outer cylindrical body 22 (direction approaching the rotation axis K) (see FIG. 5). In the assembled state of FIGS. 2 and 4, the penetrating portion 41 a can accommodate the engaging protrusion 42. As shown in FIG. 6, the engagement protrusion 42 is closer to the rotation axis K of the rotary connector than the locking piece 41 in a state where the outer cylinder 22 and the bottom member 21 are assembled. In other words, the engagement protrusion 42 protrudes from the side close to the rotation axis K toward the radially outer side and is engaged with the locking piece 41.

図６に示すように、組立てられた状態（係合状態）で、係合突起４２の下表面と、係止片４１の貫通部４１ａの真下にある面（即、係止片４１の、係合突起４２の下表面に対向する面）とが当接する。この状態で、延出部２５の上表面に対して下向きの力（図６における点線の矢印Ｂで示される力）を印加して係合突起４２を径方向外側へ変形させても、係合突起４２の変形方向は、係合突起４２と係止片４１との係合をよりきつくする方向であり、両者を離脱させる方向ではない。よって、第１フック接続構造の係合突起４２と係止片４１とは、離脱し難い。 As shown in FIG. 6, in the assembled state (engaged state), the lower surface of the engaging protrusion 42 and the surface immediately below the penetrating portion 41 a of the locking piece 41 (immediately, the engaging piece 41 is engaged. The surface facing the lower surface of the mating protrusion 42). In this state, even if a downward force (a force indicated by a dotted arrow B in FIG. 6) is applied to the upper surface of the extending portion 25 to deform the engaging protrusion 42 radially outward, the engaging portion 42 is engaged. The deformation direction of the protrusion 42 is a direction in which the engagement between the engagement protrusion 42 and the locking piece 41 is tightened, and is not a direction in which both are separated. Therefore, the engagement protrusion 42 and the locking piece 41 of the first hook connection structure are difficult to separate.

また、実際に底面部材２１を変形させる場合は他にも多数あり、これに限らない。例えば、回転コネクタを搬送又は組み立てる工程において、操作員が手で回転コネクタの延出部２５のみを握る場合、回転コネクタの自重により、底面部材２１が変形してしまう可能性がある。 There are many other cases where the bottom member 21 is actually deformed, and the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the process of transporting or assembling the rotary connector, when the operator grips only the extending portion 25 of the rotary connector by hand, the bottom surface member 21 may be deformed by the weight of the rotary connector.

なお、回転軸Ｋの方向（図６の上下方向）に、係止片４１と係合突起４２とは、いずれも延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の下方に位置する。 Note that, in the direction of the rotation axis K (the vertical direction in FIG. 6), both the locking piece 41 and the engaging protrusion 42 are located below the plane on which the upper surface 25 a of the extending portion 25 exists.

一方、図３と図４に示すように、フック接続構造４０は、さらに、外筒体２２に設置された係合突起（第３係合部）４３と、底面部材２１に設置された係止片（第４係合部）４４と、を含み、係合突起４３と係止片４４とにより第２フック接続構造が構成される。図３に示すように、本実施形態における第２フック接続構造は、外筒体２２の円周方向に沿って複数設けられるとともに、複数の第２フック接続構造は、いずれも環状支持部２４の外周における、前記接続部分以外の位置に設けられる。 On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the hook connection structure 40 further includes an engagement protrusion (third engagement portion) 43 installed on the outer cylindrical body 22 and a latch installed on the bottom member 21. A second hook connection structure is formed by the engagement protrusion 43 and the locking piece 44. As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of second hook connection structures in the present embodiment are provided along the circumferential direction of the outer cylindrical body 22, and each of the plurality of second hook connection structures is an annular support portion 24. It is provided at a position other than the connection portion on the outer periphery.

係合突起４３は、外筒体２２の外側壁から径方向外側へ突出し、係止片４４は、外筒体２２の径方向に該係止片４４を貫通した貫通部４４ａを有し、図２に示された組立てられた状態で、貫通部４４ａは、係合突起４３を収納できる。そして、外筒体２２と底面部材２１とが組立てられた状態で、係合突起４３は、係止片４４よりも回転コネクタの回転軸Ｋ側に近い。言い換えると、係合突起４３は、回転軸Ｋに近い側から径方向外側へ突出して係止片４４と係合される。 The engagement protrusion 43 protrudes radially outward from the outer wall of the outer cylindrical body 22, and the locking piece 44 has a through portion 44 a that penetrates the locking piece 44 in the radial direction of the outer cylindrical body 22. In the assembled state shown in FIG. 2, the penetrating portion 44 a can accommodate the engaging protrusion 43. Then, in a state where the outer cylindrical body 22 and the bottom member 21 are assembled, the engagement protrusion 43 is closer to the rotation axis K side of the rotary connector than the locking piece 44. In other words, the engagement protrusion 43 protrudes radially outward from the side close to the rotation axis K and engages with the locking piece 44.

以下、本実施形態の効果を説明する。 Hereinafter, the effect of this embodiment will be described.

本実施形態の回転コネクタにより、底面部材２１に設置された第２係合部４２が、外筒体２２に設置された第１係合部４１よりも回転コネクタの回転軸Ｋ側に近いため、底面部材２１が径方向外側へ弾性変形しても、このような変形は、第１係合部４１を第２係合部４２から離脱させることなく、逆に第１係合部４１と第２係合部４２との係合をより強くさせ、安定なフック接続構造を得ることができる。 With the rotary connector of the present embodiment, the second engagement portion 42 installed on the bottom surface member 21 is closer to the rotation axis K side of the rotary connector than the first engagement portion 41 installed on the outer cylindrical body 22, Even if the bottom surface member 21 is elastically deformed outward in the radial direction, such deformation does not cause the first engagement portion 41 to be detached from the second engagement portion 42, and conversely the first engagement portion 41 and the second engagement portion 41. Engagement with the engaging portion 42 is further strengthened, and a stable hook connection structure can be obtained.

また、延出部２５が下向きの力を受ける場合、接続部分又は接続部分の周辺に位置する第２係合部４２が径方向外側に向けて変形しても、接続部分又は接続部分の周辺に位置する第１フック接続構造が離脱することがない。この際に第１フック接続構造の第２係合部４２の変形方向は、第２係合部４２と第１係合部４１との係合をよりきつくする方向であり、両者を離脱させる方向ではない。これにより、環状支持部２４の延出部２５と繋がる接続部分又は接続部分の周辺に位置する第１フック接続構造が離脱することを有効に防止できる。 Further, when the extending portion 25 receives a downward force, even if the second engaging portion 42 positioned around the connection portion or the connection portion is deformed radially outward, the connection portion or the periphery of the connection portion The located first hook connection structure does not come off. At this time, the deformation direction of the second engagement portion 42 of the first hook connection structure is a direction in which the engagement between the second engagement portion 42 and the first engagement portion 41 is tighter, and the direction in which both are separated. is not. Thereby, it can prevent effectively that the 1st hook connection structure located in the connection part connected to the extension part 25 of the cyclic | annular support part 24 or the periphery of a connection part detaches | leaves.

また、第１フック接続構造は、延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の下方に位置しても良く、延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の上方に位置しても良い。第１フック接続構造が、延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の下方に位置する場合、回転軸Ｋの方向（即ち、延出部２５の厚さ方向）に、第１フック接続構造と延出部２５とは、ほぼ同じ位置に位置し、フック接続構造を設置しない場合と比べても、延出部２５の上表面２５ａの上方の空間を余計に占用することがない。 Further, the first hook connection structure may be located below the plane where the upper surface 25a of the extension part 25 exists, or may be located above the plane where the upper surface 25a of the extension part 25 exists. . When the first hook connection structure is located below the plane on which the upper surface 25a of the extension part 25 exists, the first hook connection structure in the direction of the rotation axis K (that is, the thickness direction of the extension part 25). And the extension part 25 is located in the substantially same position, and does not occupy the space above the upper surface 25a of the extension part 25 more than the case where a hook connection structure is not installed.

（変形例１）
図７は、変形例１の第１係合部を示す斜視図であり、図７における左側の図は、斜め上方から見た第１係合部の斜視図であり、図７における右側の図は、斜め下方から見た第１係合部の斜視図である。図８は、変形例１の第１フック接続構造を示す断面図である。 (Modification 1)
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a first engaging portion of Modification 1. The left side view in FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the first engaging portion as viewed obliquely from above, and the right side view in FIG. These are the perspective views of the 1st engaging part seen from diagonally downward. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a first hook connection structure of Modification 1.

図７に示すように、変形例１と第１実施形態との相違点は、変形例１における係止片（第１係合部）４５は、係合突起４２と係合する貫通部４１ａを備えず、係止片４５の、係合突起４２と対向する側（即ち、回転軸Ｋに向く側）で径方向外側へ凹む凹部４５ａを備え、該凹部４５ａは、長方体の形状であり、外筒体２２と底面部材２１とが組立てられた状態で係合突起４２を収納できる。言い換えると、変形例１における凹部４５ａは、径方向に係止片４５を貫通していない。 As shown in FIG. 7, the difference between the first modification and the first embodiment is that the locking piece (first engagement portion) 45 in the first modification has a through portion 41 a that engages with the engagement protrusion 42. The recess 45a is recessed radially outward on the side of the locking piece 45 facing the engagement protrusion 42 (that is, the side facing the rotation axis K), and the recess 45a has a rectangular shape. The engaging protrusion 42 can be stored in a state where the outer cylindrical body 22 and the bottom member 21 are assembled. In other words, the recess 45a in the first modification does not penetrate the locking piece 45 in the radial direction.

また、図８に示すように、係止片４５の断面は、リバースフック状に形成され、係止片４５の凹部４５ａの下方に位置する部分は、突出部４５ｂとなり、組立てられた状態で、該突出部４５ｂの上表面と係合突起４２の下表面とが係合される。
（変形例２）
図９は、変形例２の第１フック接続構造を示す斜視図である。図１０は、変形例２の第１フック接続構造を示す分解斜視図である。 Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the cross section of the locking piece 45 is formed in a reverse hook shape, and the portion located below the concave portion 45 a of the locking piece 45 becomes a protruding portion 45 b, and in an assembled state, The upper surface of the protrusion 45b is engaged with the lower surface of the engagement protrusion 42.
(Modification 2)
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a first hook connection structure of a second modification. FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a first hook connection structure of Modification 2.

図９および図１０に示すように、変形例２と第１実施形態との相違点は、第１実施形態の第１フック接続構造は、延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の下方に位置するが、変形例２の第１フック接続構造は、延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の上方に位置する。 As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the difference between Modification 2 and the first embodiment is that the first hook connection structure of the first embodiment is below the plane where the upper surface 25 a of the extending portion 25 exists. However, the first hook connection structure of Modification 2 is located above the plane on which the upper surface 25a of the extending portion 25 exists.

変形例２の第１フック接続構造は、外筒体２２に設置された係止片（第１係合部）４６と、底面部材２１に設置された係合突起（第２係合部）４７とを含み、係止片４６と係合突起４７とは、いずれも延出部２５の上表面２５ａが存在する平面の上方に位置する。そして、係止片４６には、係合突起４２と係合するための貫通部４６ａが設けられている。 The first hook connection structure of Modification 2 includes a locking piece (first engagement portion) 46 installed on the outer cylinder 22 and an engagement protrusion (second engagement portion) 47 installed on the bottom member 21. The locking piece 46 and the engaging protrusion 47 are both located above the plane where the upper surface 25a of the extending portion 25 exists. The locking piece 46 is provided with a through portion 46 a for engaging with the engaging protrusion 42.

（他の変形例）
本発明は、前述の実施形態に限られるものではなく、当業者は、本発明の技術的範囲又は同等の範囲内で、前述の実施形態の構成要素に対して各種の変更、組合せ、置換を行うことができる。 (Other variations)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications, combinations, and substitutions to the components of the above-described embodiments within the technical scope or equivalent scope of the present invention. It can be carried out.

本発明の目的は、フック接続構造が離脱し易い箇所に第１フック接続構造を設置することで、安定なフック接続構造を得ることにある。第１実施形態において、1つの第１フック接続構造及び複数の第２フック接続構造を含む例が示されているが、実際は、第１フック接続構造及び第２フック接続構造の数は変更可能である。例えば、複数の第１フック接続構造及び複数の第２フック接続構造を設置しても良く、複数の第１フック接続構造及び1つの第２フック接続構造を設置しても良く、複数の第１フック接続構造のみを設置しても良い。 An object of the present invention is to obtain a stable hook connection structure by installing the first hook connection structure at a place where the hook connection structure is easily detached. In the first embodiment, an example including one first hook connection structure and a plurality of second hook connection structures is shown, but in practice, the number of the first hook connection structures and the second hook connection structures can be changed. is there. For example, a plurality of first hook connection structures and a plurality of second hook connection structures may be installed, a plurality of first hook connection structures and a second hook connection structure may be installed, and a plurality of first hook connection structures may be installed. Only the hook connection structure may be installed.

また、第１フック接続構造及び第２フック接続構造の設置位置も変更可能である。第１実施形態において、第１フック接続構造が環状支持部２４の延出部２５と繋がる接続部分に設けられる場合のみを示されている。実際には、第２フック接続構造を環状支持部２４の接続部分に設けても良い。また、第１実施形態において、接続部分の周辺もフック接続構造が離脱し易い箇所であるため、第１フック接続構造を、環状支持部２４の外周の、該接続部分の周辺に設けても良い。この際に、第２フック接続構造に比べ、第１フック接続構造は、環状支持部２４の外周の、接続部分により近い位置に設けられることが好ましい。言い換えると、第１フック接続構造は、環状支持部２４の外周の周方向において前記接続部分に隣接するフック接続構造であることが好ましい。 Moreover, the installation positions of the first hook connection structure and the second hook connection structure can also be changed. In the first embodiment, only the case where the first hook connection structure is provided at the connection portion connected to the extending portion 25 of the annular support portion 24 is shown. Actually, the second hook connection structure may be provided at the connection portion of the annular support portion 24. Further, in the first embodiment, since the hook connection structure is also easily detached from the periphery of the connection portion, the first hook connection structure may be provided around the connection portion on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24. . At this time, it is preferable that the first hook connection structure is provided at a position closer to the connection portion on the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24 than the second hook connection structure. In other words, the first hook connection structure is preferably a hook connection structure adjacent to the connection portion in the circumferential direction of the outer periphery of the annular support portion 24.

また、第１実施形態において、延出部２５と固定側接続部２３とは、環状支持部２４の外周上で隣接して配置されているが、これに限らない。そして、延出部２５の形状、厚さもこれに限らず、変更することが可能である。 Moreover, in 1st Embodiment, although the extension part 25 and the stationary-side connection part 23 are arrange | positioned adjacently on the outer periphery of the cyclic | annular support part 24, it is not restricted to this. And the shape and thickness of the extension part 25 are not restricted to this, It is possible to change.

また、第１実施形態において、第２係合部が係合突起４２を有し、第１係合部が貫通部４１ａ又は凹部４５ａを有する構成とされているが、貫通部４１ａ／凹部４５ａと係合突起４２との設置側を交換し、第１係合部が係合突起４２を有し、且つ第２係合部が貫通部４１ａ又は凹部４５ａを有する構成としても良い。 In the first embodiment, the second engaging portion has the engaging protrusion 42 and the first engaging portion has the through portion 41a or the recessed portion 45a. It is good also as a structure which exchanges the installation side with the engagement protrusion 42, the 1st engagement part has the engagement protrusion 42, and the 2nd engagement part has the penetration part 41a or the recessed part 45a.

１０回転ケース（可動側ケース）
１１上部回転子
１１ａ天板部
１１ｂ内筒部
１１ｃ係止凹部
１２下部回転子
１３可動側接続部
２０固定ケース（固定側ケース）
２１底面部材
２２外筒体
２２ａ係止部材挿入部
２３固定側接続部
２４環状支持部
２５延出部
２５ａ上表面
３０ブラケット
３０ａ環状板部
３０ｂローラ
４０フック接続構造
４１係止片（第１係合部）
４１ａ貫通部
４２係合突起（第２係合部）
４３係合突起（第３係合部）
４４係止片（第４係合部）
４４ａ貫通部
４５係止片（第１係合部）
４５ａ凹部
４５ｂ突出部
４６係止片（第１係合部）
４６ａ貫通部
４７係合突起（第２係合部）
５０外部係止部材
Ｋ回転軸
Ｍ平面 10 Rotating case (movable side case)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Upper rotor 11a Top plate part 11b Inner cylinder part 11c Locking recessed part 12 Lower rotor 13 Movable side connection part 20 Fixed case (fixed side case)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 Bottom surface member 22 Outer cylindrical body 22a Locking member insertion part 23 Fixed side connection part 24 Annular support part 25 Extension part 25a Upper surface 30 Bracket 30a Ring plate part 30b Roller 40 Hook connection structure 41 Locking piece (1st engagement) Part)
41a penetration part 42 engagement protrusion (2nd engagement part)
43 engaging protrusion (third engaging portion)
44 Locking piece (fourth engaging part)
44a Penetrating portion 45 Locking piece (first engaging portion)
45a Concave portion 45b Protruding portion 46 Locking piece (first engaging portion)
46a penetrating portion 47 engaging protrusion (second engaging portion)
50 External locking member K Rotating shaft M Plane

Claims

A fixed side case having an outer cylindrical body and a bottom surface member, and the outer cylindrical body is fixed to the bottom surface member by a plurality of hook connection structures, and connected to the fixed side case so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis A rotary connector comprising a movable case,
At least one hook connection structure of the plurality of hook connection structures includes a first engagement part installed on the outer cylinder and a second engagement part installed on the bottom member, and the outer cylinder wherein in a state where the bottom member are assembled, the second engagement portion, near rather to the rotating shaft of the rotary connector than the first engagement portion and,
The bottom surface member has an integrally formed annular support portion and an extension portion, the upper surface of the annular support portion supports the annular bottom surface of the outer cylinder, and the extension portion is the annular support. Located on the outside of the part and connected to at least part of the outer periphery of the annular support part,
The second engagement portion of the at least one hook connection structure is provided on the outer periphery of the annular support portion, connected to the extension portion, or around the connection portion,
The hook connection structure extends in the direction of the rotation shaft, and the second engagement portion is located below a plane on which an upper surface of the extension portion exists,
The second engaging portion of the at least one hook connection structure is provided in a recess formed in the extending portion so as to be recessed below a plane on which the upper surface exists. Rotating connector.

2. The rotary connector according to claim 1 , wherein the first engagement portion is provided in a part of the outer cylindrical body that is installed to face the second engagement portion.

The second engagement portion has an engagement protrusion that protrudes from the outer periphery of the annular support portion to a side farther from the rotation shaft, and the first engagement portion is arranged in a direction approaching the rotation shaft. has a through portion penetrating the engagement portion, the rotation connector according to claim 1 wherein the penetrating part, which can hold the engaging protrusion in the assembled state, characterized in that.

The first engagement portion has a recess that is recessed from a side facing the rotation shaft of the first engagement portion to a side far from the rotation shaft, and the second engagement portion is formed of the annular support portion. an engagement projection which projects to the side farther from the rotational axis from the outer periphery, the rotary connector according to claim 1, wherein in the recess assembled state, characterized in that, can hold the engaging projection.