CA2103514C - Modular jack - Google Patents

Modular jack Download PDF

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Publication number
CA2103514C
CA2103514C CA 2103514 CA2103514A CA2103514C CA 2103514 C CA2103514 C CA 2103514C CA 2103514 CA2103514 CA 2103514 CA 2103514 A CA2103514 A CA 2103514A CA 2103514 C CA2103514 C CA 2103514C
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CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
cover
modular
state
closed
modular jack
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
CA 2103514
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
CA2103514A1 (en
Inventor
Masanobu Okada
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from JP4212599A external-priority patent/JP2722955B2/en
Priority claimed from JP4213996A external-priority patent/JP2722956B2/en
Priority claimed from JP4214042A external-priority patent/JP2722957B2/en
Application filed by Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd filed Critical Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd
Publication of CA2103514A1 publication Critical patent/CA2103514A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of CA2103514C publication Critical patent/CA2103514C/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Abstract

A modular jack applicable to a flat assembly. A
hole is pierced in a flat member and a cover that can be opened and closed is disposed so as to cover an opening of the hole. When a modular plug is inserted into the hole, the cover is opened; when not, the cover is closed. When the cover is closed, it is housed in the opening, and the modular jack equals the flat member substantially in thickness. When the modular plug is inserted into the hole through the opening with the cover open, the insertion direction of the modular plug is regulated by inner walls of the hole. When the tip of the modular plug abuts against a bottom portion of the hole, the modular plug cannot be inserted any more. In the state, an electrode section located in the hole is electrically connected to electrodes of the modular plug. A hook portion disposed in the cover locks the.e modular plug so as to prevent the modular plug from easily dropping out of the modular jack even if the modular plug is pulled. If the cover is provided with a lock/release mechanism, the cover can be opened or closed through single finger motion.

Description

2I03~14 MODULAR JACK
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to improvements in a modular jack used for connection of a modem or the like to a telephone line or the like.
2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, flat packaged electronic assemblies such as IC cards have been used widely. To build circuitry such as a modem in such an assembly, a modular jack must be used for connection of the circuitry to a telephone line or the like.
F:Igure 20 shows a structure exampi.e of a conventional. IC card, wherein an IC oard 10 is an IC
card in which a modem is incorporated. For connection of the internal modem to an external system, a modular jack 12 is disposed at one end of the IC card 1_0. For example, the modem can be connected to a telephone line by inserting a modular plug 14 connected to the telephone line into the modular jack 1.2. Further, if the IC card i.s mounted on external equipment, such as a personal computer, the external. equipment c:an be 21~3~~4 connected to a telephone line while the IC card 10 is used as a modem.
Figure 21 shows the structural form of the modular plug 14 connected to the IC card 10 shown in Figure 20;
Figure 22A shows a front view of the modular jack 12;
and Figure 22B shows a sectional view taken on line A-A
of Figure 22A.
The modular jack 12 has the basic functions of insertion direction regulation, push stop, return stop, and electric connection. The insertion direction regulation function is to regulate the insertion direction of the modular plug 14 to one direction; in the example shown in Figures 22A and 22B, the function is provided by inner walls 16 of the modular jack .i4.
The push stop function is to stop pushing of the modular plug 14 in the insertion direction; in the example shown in Figure 22A and 228, the function is provided by a bottom portion 18. The return stop function is to stop movement in the return direction from the .insertion direction; in the example shown in Figure 22A and 2213, the function is provided by a hook portion 22 engaged with a lever 20 of the modular plug 14. The push and return stop function =t_ock the modular plug I4 at a predetermined position. The electric connection function is to electrically connect 2I03~14 electrodes of the modular plug 14 to a circuit such as a modem; in the example shown in Figures 22A and 22B, the function is provided by electrodes 24 disposed in the modular jack 12.
However, to use the modular jack having the structure at a part or place where there is a limitation on thickness, such as an IC card, the thickness of the modular jack 12 introduces a problem.
For example, the portion where the modular jack is installed must be thickened, as shown in Figure 20, leading to demerits of a complicated form, inconvenience of handling, and an increase in production costs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, Lt is an object of the invention to enable a modular jack to be located at a member or place where there is a. limitation on thickness without thickening a portion where the modular ,jack is 7_ocated.
It is another object of the invention to enable simplification of the form, increased ease of handling, reduction in production costs, and prevention of damage caused by handling.
It is a further object of the invention to provide an assembly having a flat form although the assembly contains a modular jack.
It is a fourth object of the invention to prevent the invasion of dusts and the electric shock.
To these ends, according to the invention, there is provided a modular jack comprising:
a) a flat member having a hole; and b) a cover that can be opened and closed for covering an opening of the hole, the cover being housed in the opening when it is closed.
The hole includes:
al) the opening open to one face of the flat member;
a2) an inner wall for regulating the insertion direction of a modular plug into the hole through the opening;
a3) a bottom portion aga:Inst which the tip of the modular plug abuts for stopping the modular plug; and a4) an electrode section located in the hale so as to be electrically connected to electrodes of the modular plug when the modular plug i.s insertt:d Into the hole through the opening.
The cover includes a hook portion for locking the modular plug when the motlul.ar plug :Is inserted .Into the hole through ttze opening.
2~.03~1~~
In the invention, the cover can be housed in the hole pierced in the flat member; it can be housed in the opening of the hole. Therefore, when the modular jack is not used, namely, when a modular plug is not attached thereto, the cover may be closed. When the modular jack is used, the cover may be opened for inserting a modular plug into the hole through the opening. The basic functions of the modular jack are provided by the hole and the cover. That is, the insertion direction regulation function is provided by the inner wall of the hole; the push stop function is provided by the boti:om portion of the hole; the return stop function is provided by the hook portion of the cover; anal the electric connection function is provided by the electrode section in the hole.
Therefore, in the invention, the flat member is used to provide the modular jack. Since a modular plug is inserted. into the hole on one surface of the flat member, the portion where the rnodular jack is 7.ocated, such as the end portion of the flat member, need not be thickened. Therefore, an assembly having a flat form although it contains a modular jack can be provided;
the modular jack applicable to the flat member can be provided. As a result, the forms of the mod~l.ar jack and the flat member containing the same, such as an IC

2~Q3514 card, can be simplified; the modular jack and flat member can be handled easily; and production costs thereof can be reduced. In addition, the cover prevents the occurrence of the accidents, such as an invasion of the dusts into the hole, electric shocks on the operator's finger caused by touching the electrodes in the hole, etc.
The modular jack of the invention can also be provided as a structure that can hold the state in which the cover is open or the state in which the cover is closed.
For example, the flat member is fixed and is formed with first and second projections and the cover is attached to the flat member so as to pivot and is also formed with third projection. When the cover is open, the first projection and the third projection are hooked onto each other to hold the cover in the open state. When the cover is closed, the second projection and the third projection are hooked onto each other to hold the cover in the closed state.
such a structure realizes ease of handling and prevention of damage caused by handling without a remarkable complication of the structure. That is, since the user can insert a modular plug without supporting the cover with his or her finger, handling 21~3~~4 is facilitated and since the cover is not opened suddenly during transportation, etc., the cover, etc., can be prevented from being damaged.
Such an effect can also be produced by replacing the first and second projections with first and second recesses. It can also be produced by replacing the third projection with a third recess. In these modifications, one of the projections is fitted into the recess, thereby maintaining the cover state.
The modular ,jack can a.l.so be provided as a structure which enables the cover to be opened or closed through a single finger motion. For example, a lock/release mechanism may be installed far holding the cover in the open state or holding the cover in the closed state, and for opening the cover to make the transition to the cover open state if a user depresses the cover surface when the cover is closed. Such a mechanism realizes ease of handling and prevention of damage caused by handling without a remarkable complication of the structure. That ls, si.nc:e the user can insert a modular plug without supporting the cover with his or her finger, handling is -facilitated and since the cover is not opened suddenly dnr:ing transportation, etc., the cover, etc., can be prevented from being damaged. In addition, the cover can be 210~~1~
opened or closed through a single finger motion, thus operability is remarkably improved.
The l.ock/release mechanism can be made of first and second pivots, spring rneans, and guide means. The first and second pivots are concentric with each other derived from the cover and are integral with the cover.
The spring means exerts a force in the cover opening direction around the first pivot. The spring means can be provided by a spring wound on the first pivot and fixed on the flat member. The guide means guides the position of the cover in response to the rotation of the cover around the second pivot. The guide means can be provided by a movable member having a pin and a fixed member having a guide groove.
A more detailed description is given below:
First, the movable member is a mernber whi-ch is disposed so as to be movaba.e along the extension direction of the second pivot and turns around the second pivat as the cover turns around the second pivot. A pin is disposed on the circumference of the movable member.
The guide groove is disposed on the -fixed member formed on or fixed to the flat member for receiving and guiding the pin. Therefore, the cover movement around the second pivot is guided by the guide groove. The guide groove includes at least two stable holding 2~~351~
points for holding the pin at a predetermined position unless a force repelling a cover force exerted by the spring means is applied to the cover. The stable holding points correspond to the cover open state and the cover closed state. Therefore, the cover. open or closed state is held appropriately.
Electro-magnetic shielding performance can be secured by installing a conductive member for covering at least the circumference of the hole. Good electric connection performance can be provided by making the electrode section springy.
According to the invention, there is provided a modified form of modular jack comprising a} a f:Lat member having a housing; and b) a cover housed in the housing when the cover is closed; and c) means for stopping returning of the modular plug in t:he insertion direction.
The housing has means -tor regulating the insertion di_rec:tion of a modular plug, means for stopping the tip of the modular plug, and me~xns for e:Lectri.cally connecting to electrodes of the modular plug. The modular jack equals the flat member substantially in thickness when the cover is housed :in the tsousing.
Due to its form, the Lsousing of ttse flat rnnmber 2~.03~14 provides the insertion direction regulation, push stop, and electric connection functions, and the cover provides the return stop function. Further, when the cover is housed in the housing, the modular jack equals the flat member substantially in thickness. Therefore, a modular jack appropriate for installation in a flat assembly can be provided, namely, a modular jack that can be installed in a flat member without thickening a portion of the flat member can be provided.
According to the invention, there is provided a flat packaged assembly comprising:
a) a modular jack including:
al) a flat member having a housing mechanism;
the housing mechanism having means for regulating the insertion direction of a modular plug, means for stopping the tip of the modular plug, and means for electrically connecting to electrodes of the modular plug;
and a2) a cover housed in the housing mechanism when the cover is closed; and a3) means for stopping returning of the modu_Lar plug in the insertl.on direction; and b) a circuit incorporated in t:he flat rnernbe:r.
The modular ,jack equals the flat member ~Ifl~~l~
substantially in thickness when the cover is housed in the housing mechanism.
The flat member can be formed like a leaf. In this case, preferably the modular jack i.s disposed at the joint portion of the leaf. In addition, conductive plates for electromagnetically shielding the incorporated circuit from the outside and also casing the flat member may be installed. The electric connectian means is connected via the flat member to the incorporated circuit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1A is a top view of an IC card having a modular jack according to a first embodiment of the invention, and particularly shows the state before a modular plug is attached to the modular ,jack;
Figure 1H is a side view of the IC card in Figure lA, and particularly shows the state before a modular plug is attached to the rnodular ,jack;
Figure 2 is a schematic sectional_ view showing the state in which the IC card in Figure 1A i.s installed in an external. apparatus and a moduaar plug is attached to the modular jack;
1.1 Figure 3A is a sectional view taken on line B-B of Figure 3B, and particularly shows the state i.n which a cover is open;
Figure 3B is a front view of the modular jack according to the first embodiment used with the IC card in Figure lA, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is open;
Figure 4A is a sectional view taken on line B-B of Figure 4B, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is closed;
Figure 4B i.s a front view of the modular jack in Figure 3, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is closed;
Figure 5 is a sect7.ona1 view taken on lin a B-B of Figure 3B, and particularly shows the state an which a modular p7_ug is attached to the modular jack;
Figure 6A 7.s a sectional view taken on line C-C o.f Figure 6B, and particularly shows the state in which a cover is open;
Figure 6B is a front view of a modular jack according to a second embodiment, and particularly shows the state in which the cover :i.s open;
Figure 7A is a sectional view taken on line C-C of Figure 7B, and particularly Shows thc: skate in v~hich the cover is closed;

2~03~1~~
Figure 7B is a front view of the modular jack in Figure 6, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is closed;
Figure 8 is a sectional view taken on line C--C of Figure 6B, and particularly shows the state in which a modular plug is attached to the modular jack;
Figure 9A is a detailed sectional view in circle D
shown in Figure 6A;
Figure 9B Ls a detailed sectional view in circle E
shown in Figure 7A;
Figure l0A is a detailed sectional view in circle D of a modular ,jack according to a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure lOB is a detailed sectional view in circle E of the modular jack according to the third embodiment of the invent9.on ;
Figure 11.A is a detailed sectional view in circle D of a modular ,jack according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11B is a detailed sectional view In circle E of the modular jack according to the fourth embodiment of the invention;
Figure 12A is a sectional view taken on line F-F' of Figure 1.2B, and partlcu.larly shows the stage in which a cover is open;

21~3~14 Figure 12B is a front view of a modular jack according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is open;
Figure 13A is a sectional view taken on line F-F
of Figure 13B, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is closed;
Figure 13B is a .front view of the modular jack in Figure 12A, and particularly shows the state in which the cover is closed;
Figure 14 is a sectional view taken on line F-F of Figure 128, and particularly shows the state in which a modular plug is attached to the modular jack;
figure 15 is a plan view showing the form of the cover of the modular jack in Figure 12A;
Figure 16 is a partial sectional view showing the structure of the right end of a shaft of the cover in the fifth embodiment in Figure 12A wh en it is built into a flat member;
Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the structure of the left end of the shaft of the cover in the fifth embodiment in Figure 12A when a s:i.deslip pin Ls mounted;
Figure 18 is a partial sectional view showl.ng the structure of t:he left end of the shaft of the cover in 21~3~1~~
the fifth embodiment in Figure 12 when it is built into the flat member;
Figure 19 is a development for illustrating the guide groove development form and pin position transition in the fifth embodiment in Figure 12A;
Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a structure of an IC card having a modular jack according to one conventional embodiment;
Figure 21 is an external view showing a form of a modular plug;
Figure 22A is a view showing a front form of the modular jack according to the conventional embodiment in Figure 20; and Figure 22B is a view showing a sectional form taken on line A-A of Figure 22A.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the accompanying drawings, there are shown preferred embodiments of the invention..
Parts identical with or similar to those previously described with reference to figures 20 to 22B are denoted by the same reference numerals ire Figures 2 to 19, and will therefore not be discussed agazin.
1. 5 2~.~3~1~
Figures lA, 1B, and 2 show application forms of a modular jack according to a first embodiment of the invention. Particularly, Figures 1A and 1B show the top and side of an IC card before a modular plug is attached to the modular jack according to the first embodiment, and Figure 2 shows the state in which the IC card is mounted on an external apparatus, such as a personal computer or wordprocessor, and further a modular plug is attached to the modular jack.
First, the modular jack 28 according to the embodiment is located at one end of an IC card 28, as shown in Figure lA and 1B. The IC card 28 has a protruding leaf like form where the modular jack is to be disposed. The modular jack is made flat by a structure as described below. When a cover 30 of the modular jack 26 is closed, the modular jack 26 takes a flat form as shown in Figure 1B. At the time, the thickness of the modular jack 26 is substantially the same as that of the IC r_ard 28.
To use circuitry contained in the 1C card 28, such as a modem, the IC card 28 is installed in an external apparatus 30. At this time, to cannect the rnod em contained in the IC card 28 to a telephone line or the like, the cover 30 of the modular jack 26 must be opened. When the cover 30 of the modular jack 26 i.s 2103~~.~
open, a modular plug 14 can be attached to the modular jack 26.
Thus, the invention can provide a thin modular jack that can be located at a place or member where there is a limitation on thickness, such as the IC card 28. The modular jack 26 according to the embodiment has a structure as shown in Figures 3A to 5.
Figure 3A shows the section, taken on line B-B of Figure 3B, of the modular ,jack 26 when the cover 30 is open. Figure 3B shows the front of the modular jack 26 when the cover 30 is open. Figure 4A shows the section taken on line B-B of Figure 4B when the cover 30 is closed. Figure 4B shows the front of the modular jack 26 when the cover 30 is closed. Figure 5 shows the section taken on line B-B of Figure 3B when the cover 30 is open and the modular plug 14 is attached to the modular jack.
As shown in the figures, the modular jack 26 according to the embodiment is provided with a flat member 34 which is formed with a hole 36 having an opening substantially like a rectang7.e. The cover 30 is mounted on one of four inner walls of the hole 36.
Both the .front and back of the peripheries of the modu7.ar jack 26 are cased with rneta7. plates 38 which are extended from a flat assembly in which the modular jack 26 is installed, such as the IC card 28. In the figures, the modular jack 26 is integral with the IC
card 28. The front and back of the IC card 28 are covered with the metal plates 38 .for electromagnetical-ly shielding the circuitry in the IC card 28 from the outside and also casing the IC card 28.
The cover 30 functions as a cover for the hole 36 that can be opened and closed. To enable such a function, the cover 30 is formed with pivots 40 and the flat member 34 is formed with holding portions 42. The pivots 40 are housed in the holding portions 42 and are held by the metal plates 38. Such a structure enables the cover 30 to be turned with the axis indicated by the X mark In the figures as the center.
The basic functions of the modular jack as described above, namely, the insertion direction regulation, push stop, return stop, and electric connection functions are provided as described below:
first, the insertion direction regulation function is provided by inner walls 44 of the hole 36. When the modular plug 14 is inserted into the hole 36 as shown in Figure 5, the insertion direction is regulated by the inner walls 44.
Next, the push stop function is provided by a bottom portion 46 of the hole 36. As the modular plug 21(~~~14 14 is inserted into the hole 36, when it abuts against the bottom portion 46, the modular plug 14 cannot be inserted any further.
Further, the return stop function is provided by two hook portions 48 located at the tip of the cover 30. As the modular plug 14 is inserted into the hole 36, a lever 20 of the modular plug 14 is engaged with the hook portions 48, as shown in Figure 5. To draw the modular plug 14 out of the modular Jack 26, the lever 20 must be depressed. Unless the lever 20 is depressed, the modular plug 14 cannot be drawn out without destruction.
Last, the electric connection function to the modular plug 14 is provided by electrodes 50 drawn from the inner walls 44 of the hole 36. As the modular plug 14 is inserted .into the hole 36, electrodes of tale modular plug 14 are pressed into contact with the electrodes 50. To hold the contact in a good condition, the electrodes 50 are made of spring material. Other ends of the electrodes >0 are drawn into the IC card 28 through the inside of the flat member 34 for connection to electric wiring on a circuit board 52 in the IC card 28 by soldering or the like.
Thus, according to the ernbodiment, when the cover ~1~3~~~~
30 is open, the modular plug 14 can be inserted as shown in Figure 5. When the modular jack 26 is not used, the cover 30 may be closed as shown in Figures 4A
and 4B.
Adoption of such a structure enables the modular jack 26 to be made thin. As a result, the modular jack 26 can be used with a member whose thickness i.s limited Iike the IC card 28 in Figure 1B without thickening a portion of the member. This leads to simp7.ification of the form of an IC card, etc., increased ease of handling, and a reduction in production costs. In addition, in the embodiment, with the modular plug 14 inserted in the modular jack 26, a portion near the tip of the modular plug 14 does not project beyond the back of th.e IC card 28. Therefore, the modular jack 26 can be mounted on a place with r:o dimensi.on margin for the back of the IC card 28, and the appearance of the IC
card 28 is not marred. When the modular jack 26 is not used, the cover 30 can be closed, and it thus does not become obstructive to transportation, etc,, and :Lt Ls unlikely to be damaged. In addition, the cover 30 prevents an invasion of dusts into the modular jack 26, an electric shock from the electrodes 50, etc.
Next, the structure of a modular jack according to a second embodiment of the invention will. be: described.

z~o3~~t~
Figures 6A to 9B show the structure of the modular jack 54 according to the second embodiment of the invention.
Figure 6A shows the section, taken on line C-C of Figure 6B, of the modular jack 54 when a cover 30 is open. Figure 6B shows the front of the modular jack 54 when the cover 30 is open. Figure 7A shows the section taken on line C-C of Figure 7B when the cover 30 is closed. Figure 7B shows the front of the modular jack 54 when the cover 30 is closed. Figure 8 shows the section taken on l.i.ne C-C of Figure 6B when the cover 30 is open and a modular plug 14 is attached to the modular jack. Figure 9A shows a detailed sectional structure in circle D shown in Figure 6A. Figure 9B
shows a detailed sectional structure in circle E shown in Figure 7A. Parts identical. with or similar to those previously described irz the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the second embodiment and will therefore not be discussed again.
The modular jack according to the second embodiment differs from the modular jack accord=tng to the first embodiment in that the cover 30 is formed with an engagement projection 56 and a flat member 34 is formed with engagement projections 58 and 60. When the cover 30 is open, the engagement pro,jecti.ons 56 and 60 are engaged with each other to f'ix the position of ~~a3~1~
the cover 30, as shown in Figures 6A and 9A. When the cover 30 is closed, the engagement projections 56 and 58 are engaged with each other to fix the position of the cover 30, as shown .in Figures 7A and 9B. Such a structure in the second embodiment prevents an accident in which when the If, card is transported, the cover 30 jumps and collides with another object and is damaged, for example. Further, when the modular plug 14 is attached to the modular jack 54, an action such as depressing the cover 30 with a finger is not needed, thus the operability of the modular jack 54 is improved.
Next, the structure of a modular jack according to a third embodiment of the invention will be described. Figures 10A and lOB show the structure of the modular jack according t;o the third embodiment of the invention. Figure 10A shows a detailed sectional structure in circle D shown .in Figure 6A. FJ.gure 10B
shows a detailed sectional structure in circle E shown in Figure 7A. Parts .identical with or similar to those previously described :Ln the first or second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the third embodiment and will therefore not be discussed again.
The modular jack according t;o the third embodiment differs from the modular jack according to ttie second 210~~11~
embodiment in the structures in circles D and E. The third embodiment uses engagement recesses 62 and 64 in place of the engagement projections 58 and 60 in the second embodiment respectively. When a cover 30 is open, an engagement projection 56 is engaged with the engagement recess 64 to fix the position of the cover 30, as shown in Figure 10A. When the cover 30 is closed, the engagement projection 56 is engaged with the engagement recess 62 to fix the position of the cover 30, as shown in Figure lOB. Therefore, the third embodiment also produces a similar effect to that in the second embodiment.
Next, the structure of a modular jack according to a fourth embodiment of the invention will be described.
Figures 11A and 11B show the structure of the modular jack according to the fourth embodiment of the j.nvention~ Figure 11A shows a detailed sectional structure in circle D shown in Figure 6A. Figure 11B
shows a detailed sectiona:I. structure in circle I; shown in Figure 7A. Parts identical with or similar to those previously described 9n the f9.rst to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference nurnera:ls .in the fourth embodiment and will therefore not be discussed again.
The modular jack according to ttie fourth embodiment differs from the modular jack according to the second embodiment in the structures in circles D
and E. The fourth embodiment uses an engagement recess 66 in place of the engagement projection 56 in the second embodiment. When a cover 30 is open, the engagement recess 66 is engaged with an engagement projection 58 to fix the position of the cover 30, as shown in Figure 11A. When the cover 30 is closed, the engagement recess 66 is engaged with the engagement projection 58 to fix the position of the cover 30, as shown in Figure 11B. Therefore, the fourth embodiment also produces a similar effect to that in the second embodiment.
Next, the structure of a modular jack according to a fifth embodirnent of the invention will be described.
Figures 12A to 19 show the structure of the modular jack 68 accord9.ng to the fifth embodiment of the invention. Figure 12A shows the section, taken on line F-F of Figure 12B, of the modular jack 68 according to the fifth embodiment when a cover 70 is open. Figure 12B shows the front of the modular jack 68 when the cover 70 is open. Figure 13A shows the section taken on line F-F of Figure 13B when the cover 70 is closed.
Figure 13B shows the front of the modular jack 68 when the cover 70 is closed. Figure 14 shows the section taken on line F-F of Figure 12B when the cover 70 is open and a modular plug 14 is attached to the modular hack. Figure 15 shows an exploded view of the cover 70. Figure 16 shows the form of a pivot 72-1 of the cover 70 when it is built into a flat member 34.
Figure 17 shows the form of a pivot 72-2 of the cover 70 when a sideslip move pin is mounted. Figure 18 shows the form of the pivot 72-2 of the cover 70 when it is built into the flat member 34. Figure 19 is the development of a guide groove 78 and the position transition operation of a pin 80. Parts identical with or similar to those previously described in the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals in the fifth embodiment and will therefore not be discussed again.
Particularly, as shown in Figures 12B, 13B, 15, etc., the pivot 72-1 is drawn out on the right side of the cover 70 and the pivot 72-2 on the left side of the cover 70. The pivots 72-1 and 72-2 are concentric with each other and are housed in holding portions 74-1 and 74-2 of the flat member 34 respectively. Such a structure enables the cover 70 to be rotated, with the axis indicated by the X mark in the figures as the center. In Figures 12B and 13B, the internal structures of the pivots 72-1 and 72-2, etc., are not seen because they are covered with one of the metal plates 38.
A spring 82 is mounted on the tip of the pivot 72-1, as shown in Figures 15 and 16. The spring 82 is housed in the holding portion 74-1 with it mounted on the cover 70, as shown in Figure 16. One end of the spring 82 is fixed on a rib 84 disposed in the holding portion 74-1, and the opposite end is fixed on the pivot 72-1. The holding portion 74-1 is formed like a groove and covered with the metal plates 38. There-fore, when the cover 70 is open, if a force is applied to the cover 70 in the direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 12A, the spring 82 is wound. Thus, a rotation torque in the direction opposing the force is applied to the cover 70.
On the other hand, the sectional form of the tip 72a of the pivot 72-2 is substantially rectangular, as shown in Figures 15, 17, and 18. The sideslip pin 76 having a substantially rectangular hole 86 is mounted on the tip 72a of the pivot 72-2 by inserting it into the hole 86 of the tip 72a. Since the form of both the tip 72a and the hole 86 is rectangular, the sideslip pin 76 turns with turning of the pivot 72-2. The sideslip pin 76 has a disk form, and the pin 80 is formed on the circumference of the sideslip pin 76.

The pivot 72-2 is housed in the holding portion 74-2 like a groove, as shown in Figure 18. However, since the holding portion 74-2 is covered with the metal plates 38, the internal structure of the holding portion 74-2, etc., is not seen in Figures 12B, 13B, etc. An inner wall of the holding portion 74-2 has at least a partially cylindrical form so as to house the sideslip pin. A guide groove 78 is formed on the inner wall of the holding portion 74-2, as shown in Figure 18. The guide groove 78 has a developed form on the inside of the cyclindrical portion of the holding portion 74-2 as shown in Figure 19. When the pivot 72-2 is housed in the holding portion 74-2, the pin 80 is guided by the guide groove 78. As the pin 80 moves in the guide groove 78, the sideslip pin 76 moves in the extension direction of the pivot 72-2, namely, in the horizontal direction of Figure 18.
The fifth embodiment has a feature which enables the cover 70 to be opened or closed by depressing the top of the cover 70 through a single finger motion.
The lock and release function is provided by a spring mechanism disposed on the right side of the cover 70 and a guide mechanism disposed on the left side of the cover 70.
As shown in Figure 19, the guide groove 78 forms 210~~14 one closed channel. The vertical direction of Figure 19 is the direction around the circumference of the inner wall of the holding portion 74-2. In response to an action against the cover 70, such as depressing, the pin 80 makes the transition through the sequence shown by arrows among the positions indicated by a to d in Figure 19. When the cover 70 is open as shown in Figures 12A, 12B and 14, the pin 80 is urged in the vertical direction of figure 19 by the force of the spring 82 transmitted by the body of the pivot 72 and positioned at position a. When the cover 70 is closed as shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the pin 80 is driven by the spring 82 and positioned at position c. The position transition of the pin 80 as the cover 70 is handled is described below in more detail.
First, when the cover 70 is open, the pin 80 is positioned at the top end of the guide groove 78, namely, position a. Since the sideslip pin 76 turns with turning of the pivot 72-2, if a force is applied to the cover 70 in the arrow direction shown in Figure 12A, the pin 80 moves in the downward direction in Figure 19 along the guide groove 78. Since the sideslip pin 76 is mounted on the pivot 72 so that it can move horizontally in the extension direction of the pivot 72, when the pin 80 arrives at a lower side 88 of 2~~3~14 ..
the guide groove 78, the pin 80 is guided by the side 88, thereby moving the sideslip pin 76 in parallel to the right in Figure 19.
When the pin 80 arrives at position b, if the user handling the cover 70 releases his or her finger from the cover 70, a force exerted by the spring 82 causes the cover 70 to attempt to open. The pin 80 moves in the direction indicated by the broken-line arrow in Figure 19 from position b, and reaches a side 90 at a certain point in time. When reaching the side 90, the pin 80 is guided by the side 90, thereby moving the sideslip pin 76 in parallel in the right direction in Figure 19. As a result, the pin 80 reaches position c.
At the time, the cover 70 is closed as shown in Figures 13A and 138.
Assume that when the cover 70 is closed, the user depresses the cover 70 in the arrow direction shown in Figure 13A. Then, the pin 80 at position c moves in the direction indicated by the solid-line arrow in Figure 19, and reaches a side 92 of the guide groove 78 at a certain point in time and the sideslip pin 76 moves in parallel along the side 92. When the pin 80 reaches the lower end of the guide groove 78, namely, position d, if the user stops depressing the cover 70, a force exerted by the spring 82 causes the pivot 72 to start turning. In this state, there is nothing to hinder the pin 80 from moving, and the pin 80 moves in the guide groove 78 upward in Figure 19. When the pin 80 reaches an upper side 94 of the guide groove 78, the pin 80 moves in parallel along the side 94 and is restored to position a. In this state, the cover 70 is open as shown in Figures 12A, 12B, and 14.
Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, when closing the cover 70, the user needs only to depress the top of the cover 70 until the pin 80 reaches to position b;
when opening the cover 70, the user needs only to depress the top of the cover 70 so that the pin 80 reaches position d. That is, the user can open or close the cover 70 through a single finger motion;
operability is improved.
When the pin 80 is positioned at position a, the cover 70 is held open. This eliminates the need for the user to support the cover 70 with his or her finger when inserting the modular plug 14 into the modular hack 68; operability is also improved by this aspect.
In contrast, when the pin 80 is positioned at position c, the cover 70 is held closed. This nrevent~ an accident in which the cover 70 dumps from th.e hole 36 and is damaged, for example, during transportation.
The cover 70 locked in the closed state prevents the ~103~14 invasion of dusts to the hole. The cover 70 prevents the insertion of the fingers of the operator into the hole to avoid the occurrence of the electric shock.
Further, when the user attempts to open the cover 70, if no lock/release mechanism exists, he or she must pull up the cover 70 with his or her finger. At this time, there is a possibility that the pivots 72-1 and 72-2, etc., will be destroyed by an unnecessary force applied thereto. In the fifth embodiment, as described above, the user can open or close the cover 70 simply by depressing the surface of the cover 70 through a single finger motion. This prevents an unnecessary force from being applied and a modular hack 68 which is less susceptible to breakdown can be provided.
The modular hack is located at the center of one end of the IC card in the descriptions given so far, but may be located anywhere.
According to the invention, the flat member is formed with a hole, and a cover that can be opened and closed is provided which is housed in the hole when it is closed and locks a modular plug when it is open, thus the modular hack containing the cover can be made thinner for application to IC cards, etc. As a resultant, the modular Jack becomes easy to handle and production costs are reduced. Engagement projections or recesses, if provided, hold the cover state. thus providing a modular jack which is less likely to become damaged and is high in operability. Further, the lock/release mechanism, if provided, enables the user to open or close the cover through a single finger motion, thus providing a modular jack which is less prone to damage and is improved in operability.

Claims (16)

1. A modular jack comprising:
a flat member having a hole; and a cover that can be opened and closed for covering an opening of said hole, said cover being housed in said opening when it is closed;
said hole including:
said opening open to one face of said flat member;
an inner wall for regulating an insertion direction of a modular plug into said hole through said opening;
a bottom portion against which a tip of the modular plug abuts for stopping the modular plug; and an electrode section located in said hole so as to be electrically connected to electrodes of the modular plug when the modular plug is inserted into said hole through said opening;
said cover including a hook portion for locking the modular plug when the modular plug is inserted into said hole through said opening.
2. The modular hack as claimed in claim 1 wherein said flat member has first and second protections related to a state in which said cover is open and a state in which said cover is closed respectively;
said cover has a third projection;
wherein in the state in which said cover is open, said first projection is engaged with said third projection to maintain the cover open state; and wherein in the state in which said cover is closed, said second projection is engaged with said third projection to maintain the cover closed state.
3. The modular jack as claimed in claim 1 wherein said flat member has first and second recesses related to a state in which said cover is open and a state in which said cover is closed respectively;
said cover has a projection;
wherein in the state in which said cover is open, said projection is fitted into said first recess to maintain the cover open state; and wherein in the state in which said cover is closed, said projection is fitted into said second recess to maintain the cover closed state.
4. The modular jack as claimed in claim 1 wherein said flat member has first and second projections related to a state in which said cover is open and a state in which said cover is closed respectively;

said cover has a recess;
wherein in the state in which said cover is open, said first projection is fitted into said recess to maintain the cover open state; and wherein in the state in which said cover is closed, said second projection is fitted into said recess to maintain the cover closed state.
5. The modular hack as claimed in claim 1 further including a lock/release mechanism for maintaining the cover open state or the cover closed state, if a user depresses the cover surface when said cover is closed, said lock/release mechanism for opening said cover to make the transition to the cover open state.
6. The modular jack as claimed in claim 5 wherein said lock/release mechanism further includes:
first and second pivots concentric with each other which are integral with and derived from said cover;
spring means for applying a torgue around said first pivot on said cover to turn said cover around said first and second pivots; and guide means for guiding a position of said cover in response to turning of said cover around said second pivot.
7. The modular hack as claimed in claim 6 wherein said spring means includes a spring wound on said first pivot said spring has two ends one of which is fixed on said flat member and the other one of which is fixed on said cover.
8. The modular jack as claimed in claim 6 wherein said guide means includes:
a member being disposed to be movable along an extension direction of said second pivot, said movable member turning around said second pivot as said cover turns around said second pivot;
a pin being disposed on a circumference of said movable member; and a guide groove being disposed on said flat member for receiving and guiding said pin;
wherein said guide groove includes at least two stable holding points for holding said pin at a predetermined position unless a force repelling a cover force exerted by said spring means is applied to said cover; said stable holding points corresponding to the cover open state and the cover closed state.
9. The modular jack as claimed in claim 1 further including a conductive member for covering at least a circumference of said hole.
10. The modular jack as claimed in claim 1 wherein said electrode section is springy.
11. A modular jack comprising:
a flat member having a housing;
a cover housed in said housing when said cover is closed; and means for stopping returning of the modular plug in the insertion direction;
said housing having means for regulating an insertion direction of a modular plug, means for stopping a tip of the modular plug, and means for electrically connecting to electrodes of the modular plug;
wherein said modular jack equals said flat member substantially in thickness when said cover is housed in said housing mechanism.
12. A flat-packaged assembly comprising:
a) a modular jack including:
a1.) a flat member having a housing;
said housing having means for regulating an insertion direction of a modular plug, means for stopping a tip of the modular plug, and means for electrically connecting to electrodes of the modular plug;
a2) a cover housed in said housing when said cover is closed; and a3) means for stopping returning of the modular plug in the insertion direciton; and b) a circuit incorporated in said flat member;
wherein said modular jack equals said flat member substantially in thickness when said cover is housed in said housing mechanism.
13. The assembly as claimed in claim 12 wherein said flat member has a leaf like protruding form.
14. The assembly as claimed in claim 13 wherein said modular jack is disposed at a joint portion of the leaf like protruding form.
15. The assembly as claimed in claim 12 further including conductive plates for electro-magnetically shielding said incorporated circuit from the outside and also casing said flat member.
16. The assembly as claimed in claim 12 wherein said electric connection means is connected via said flat member to said incorporated circuit.
CA 2103514 1992-08-10 1993-08-06 Modular jack Expired - Lifetime CA2103514C (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JPHEI4-212599 1992-08-10
JP4212599A JP2722955B2 (en) 1992-08-10 1992-08-10 Modular connector
JPHEI4-214042 1992-08-11
JP4213996A JP2722956B2 (en) 1992-08-11 1992-08-11 Modular connector
JP4214042A JP2722957B2 (en) 1992-08-11 1992-08-11 Modular connector
JPHEI4-213996 1992-08-11

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2103514A1 CA2103514A1 (en) 1994-02-11
CA2103514C true CA2103514C (en) 2001-02-13

Family

ID=27329380

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA 2103514 Expired - Lifetime CA2103514C (en) 1992-08-10 1993-08-06 Modular jack

Country Status (1)

Country Link
CA (1) CA2103514C (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6773291B1 (en) 1993-11-12 2004-08-10 Intel Corporation Compliant communications connectors

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5411405A (en) * 1993-11-12 1995-05-02 Angia Communications, Inc. Miniature electrical communications connectors
US5773332A (en) * 1993-11-12 1998-06-30 Xircom, Inc. Adaptable communications connectors
US7074061B1 (en) 1993-11-12 2006-07-11 Intel Corporation Versatile communications connectors
US5660568A (en) * 1995-01-04 1997-08-26 Simple Technology, Inc. Communications card with integral transmission media line adaptor
US6398564B1 (en) 1999-10-12 2002-06-04 3Com Corporation Communication connector for compact computer devices

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6773291B1 (en) 1993-11-12 2004-08-10 Intel Corporation Compliant communications connectors
US6832920B2 (en) 1993-11-12 2004-12-21 Intel Corporation Compliant communications connectors

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