CN101364685A

CN101364685A - A joint connector and an assembling method therefor

Info

Publication number: CN101364685A
Application number: CNA2008102102606A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 一尾敏文; 冈村宪知
Original assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems Ltd
Current assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems Ltd
Priority date: 2007-08-10
Filing date: 2008-08-11
Publication date: 2009-02-11
Anticipated expiration: 2028-08-11
Also published as: JP2009043642A; JP4978788B2; CN101364685B

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to facilitate a building-up operation by preventing an erroneous buildup of sub-housings. A joint connector 10 according to the present invention is provided with sub-housings S (S1 to S6) which can be built up in a plurality of levels, cavities 32 capable of accommodating terminal fittings 40 and projecting pieces 31 provided on outer sides of the respective sub-housings S, projecting in directions intersecting with a build-up direction of the sub-housings S and forming hand-push portions 13 by building up the sub-housings S. As the sub-housings S built up in a plurality of levels are fitted into the intermediate connector 20 by pushing the hand-push portions 13 toward the intermediate connector 20, the terminal fittings 40 are electrically connected with intermediate terminals 24 provided in the intermediate connector 20. Identifying projections A are provided on the lower ones of mating surfaces of the respective projecting pieces 31, and identifying recesses B for receiving the identifying projections A therein if the sub-housings S are properly built up are provided in the upper ones of the mating surfaces.

Description

Joint connector and assemble method thereof

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of joint connector and assemble method thereof that is arranged on the subshell in a plurality of layers that comprise.

Background technology

For example, the joint connector that discloses among the open No.3433797 of Japan Patent is known as in this type one.This joint connector is constructed such that in each layer, contact portion and bonding part are arranged on the side surface, and contacts with each other in correct assembled position, is in a plurality of subshells of aligning with assembling when suitably having erect each subshell.

In this joint connector, for the reason that for example reduces molding costs, prepared to be positioned at the common subshell that is formed with a plurality of contact portions and bonding part on its side surface, and according to subshell in erectting the process of subshell, will locate layer and excise contact portion and bonding part selectively.

Yet, because wherein being installed, the cooperation shell that is erected at the subshell in a plurality of layers has fixed dimension, if so contact portion and bonding part are arranged on the side surface of subshell, the inwall of cavity that then is used to hold clamped nipple is thinner, and connector has the whole intensity that reduces.Also there is other problems, such as, if excised contact portion and bonding part at the errors present place, then the operation owing to excision contact portion and bonding part reaches the burden that the disposal of subshell is increased operating personnel.

And, as the structure that is used for clamped nipple is remained on cavity, can consider, for example, the retainer of the internal communication of the cavity in the matching surface at one side place of formation and corresponding subshell inserts opening, so that can inserting opening by the retainer on the matching surface on the opposite side, retainer be inserted in the cavity, and because the setting of subshell, make this retainer insert opening and enter cavity, and the lock terminal joint is contained in the cavity it by retainer.

In this structure, if the purpose of the connection power that applies when reducing to erect subshell and specific gap is arranged between the edge of opening and retainer that retainer inserts opening then allows the subshell that is straightened along the plane surface of the matching surface scope that the is provided with internal shift in the gap.

For example, if carry out attended operation by the bottommost subshell 100 that only promotes in the setting subshell shown in the accompanying drawing 33, then corresponding subshell is (the accompanying drawing 33 left) displacement gradually backward on the closure from lower floor towards the upper strata.About the superiors' subshell 101, before subshell 101 arrives correct link position, can finish attended operation.And if the superiors' subshell 101 is provided with lock arm 102, then the locking projection 103 of lock arm 102 can not be installed in the lock hole 201, thereby can't realize locking.

And, because subshell is provided with the cavity that can hold clamped nipple, and the end of wire harness is connected with this clamped nipple, so after clamped nipple is received in the cavity, each subshell before erectting all is installed in the checkout facility usually, and, carry out electrical connection test to clamped nipple by the conducting probe that is arranged in the checkout facility is contacted with clamped nipple.

Yet, in being electrically connected test, may checking that whether clamped nipple is connected with correct wire harness, but can not check whether clamped nipple is contained in the correct subshell.So,, then after subshell is erect, laid wire harness mistakenly if clamped nipple is contained in the subshell that is different from correct subshell.

Summary of the invention

In view of the foregoing, made the present invention, and its objective is, erect, especially under the situation of any decline that does not cause intensity, made that erectting operation is easy to carry out by the mistake that prevents subshell.

According to the present invention, this purpose realizes by the feature of independent claims.The preferred embodiments of the present invention are themes of dependent claims.

According to the present invention, a kind of joint connector is provided, comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell in a plurality of layers,

One or more cavitys, this cavity are arranged in the corresponding subshell and can hold one or more clamped nipples to small part, and

One or more prodgers, this prodger are arranged on the outside of corresponding subshell, outstanding on the direction of intersecting with the vertical cube of subshell,

Wherein:

One or more identification projections are arranged on the matching surface of a side of corresponding prodger, and one or more identification recesses are arranged on the matching surface at opposite side place, if wherein subshell is correctly established, then this identification recess is contained in the identification projection wherein at least in part.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, by establishing subshell, these one or more prodgers form the hand push part,

Wherein:

Along with by towards cooperating shell to promote or the operator pushed section is divided and subshell to the small part that is erected in a plurality of layers is installed to cooperate in the shell, clamped nipple be arranged on this cooperations shell in or the one or more corresponding mating terminals joint electrical connection at cooperation shell place.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, provide a joint connector, comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell in a plurality of layers,

Be arranged on the cavity that also can hold clamped nipple in each subshell,

Be arranged on the prodger on the outside of each subshell, this prodger is outstanding on the direction of intersecting with the vertical cube of subshell, and forms the hand push part by erectting subshell,

Wherein:

Along with cooperating in the shell by promoting to make the subshell that is erected in a plurality of layers to be installed to towards the cooperation shell hand push part, this clamped nipple is electrically connected with being arranged on the mating terminals joint that cooperates in the shell, reaches

The identification projection is arranged on the matching surface of a side of each prodger, and the identification recess is arranged in the matching surface of opposite side, if wherein subshell is correctly erect, then the identification recess is contained in the identification projection wherein.

According to this structure,, erect so can prevent the mistake of subshell if because subshell is correctly erect, and then identification projection is at least partially housed in the identification recess.And owing to utilized the hand push as existing structure that identification projection and identification recess partly are set, so compare with the situation that identification recess branch is arranged with the identification projection, joint connector can be made forr a short time.And, be arranged on the outside of subshell owing to form the prodger of hand push part, so the inwall of cavity does not need attenuation, therefore can not the whole intensity that reduces joint connector.

The present invention is preferably as follows realization.

Under the correct upright state of subshell, this identification projection and identification recess can be upwards aligned with each other substantially at vertical cube, this identification recess can have the hole shape of the shape of cross section basically identical of basic and identification projection, unless and subshell is correctly erect, otherwise since the different orientations of varying cross-section shape and/or shape of cross section, the edge of opening of the protruding terminus disturbance identification recess of this identification projection.

According to this structure, because when the orientation of the shape of cross section of identification projection and/or shape of cross section was consistent with the hole shape of identification recess, the identification projection was at least partially housed in this identification recess, so can prevent the mistake setting of subshell.For example, if for each subshell is provided with a pair of identification projection and a pair of identification recess, simultaneously they Width (with vertical cube to the direction of all intersecting with closure) go up and separate with specific gap, then these identification projections and identification recess can upwards be aimed at vertical cube, and between the identification projection and fixing at interval between the identification recess.Therefore, can not on Width, increase joint connector.

Can be each subshell and be arranged to right prodger, identification projection and paired identification recess can be provided with specific gap respectively in pairs, unless and subshell is correctly erect, otherwise since the identification projection between and the identification recess between different interval, the protruding terminus of this identification projection can disturb the matching surface of opposite side.

According to this structure and since when this to the interval between the identification projection and this to the interval between the identification recess when consistent, this is contained in this in the identification recess to the identification projection, so can prevent the mistake setting of subshell.

The identification recess that is arranged in the subshell of the bottom can be arranged so that, the identification projection that is set in place on all subshells of bottom top can be contained in wherein.

According to this structure, even the number of plies of subshell changes, the subshell in the bottom also can be used as common subshell.

This prodger can form in the posterior transversal of subshell outstanding.

According to this structure because hand push partly is formed on the rear portion place of joint connector, so with joint connector with cooperate after shell is connected, can be easy to promote operate.

Therefore, under the situation that does not cause any intensity to reduce, the setting of mistake in the time of can being easy to prevent to erect subshell.

According to the present invention, also provide especially according to the joint connector of the invention described above or its preferred embodiment, comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell in a plurality of layers,

One or more cavitys, this cavity are arranged in the subshell and one or more clamped nipples can be at least partially housed in wherein,

One or more retainers insert openings, and this retainer inserts in the matching surface at a side place that opening is formed on corresponding subshell, and are communicated with the inboard of respective cavities, reach

One or more retainers, this retainer is outstanding from the matching surface of opposite side, and along with corresponding subshell is straightened, can inserts opening to small part by retainer and be inserted in the cavity, remain at least in part with the lock terminal joint and/or with it and to be contained in the cavity

Wherein one or more ribs are at least partially disposed between the edge of opening and the retainer of basic side to this edge of opening of retainer insertion opening, are used for preventing the one or more directions displacements of the correct subshell of erectting along the plane that is positioned at matching surface.

Therefore, when remaining on clamped nipple in the cavity, prevented the displacement of the subshell of setting.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, when the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layers was connected with the cooperation shell, these one or more clamped nipples and the one or more mating terminals joints that are arranged in the cooperation shell were electrically connected.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, provide a kind of joint connector, comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell in a plurality of layers,

Be arranged on the cavity that also clamped nipple can be contained in the subshell wherein,

Retainer inserts opening, and this retainer inserts in the matching surface of a side that opening is formed on corresponding subshell, and is communicated with the inboard of respective cavities, reaches

Retainer, this retainer is outstanding from the matching surface of opposite side, and along with corresponding subshell is straightened, can inserts opening by retainer and be inserted in the cavity, with locking and maintenance clamped nipple it is contained in the cavity,

When the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layers was connected with the cooperation shell, clamped nipple and the mating terminals joint that is arranged in the cooperation shell were electrically connected,

Wherein, rib is arranged on the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening and in the face of between the retainer of this edge of opening, is used to prevent that the correct subshell of erectting is along the in-plane displacement that is positioned at matching surface.

According to this structure, by erectting corresponding subshell, retainer inserts opening by retainer and enters cavity, with locking and maintenance clamped nipple it is contained in the cavity.Subsequently, at the subshell that will erect with after the cooperation shell is connected, insert the edge of opening of opening and, can limit of the displacement of corresponding subshell by being arranged on retainer along the in-plane of matching surface in the face of the rib between the outer surface of the retainer of this edge of opening.For example, even by only pushing to cooperate shell to carry out attended operation the subshell in the bottom, the subshell in the superiors also can not be finished attended operation before arriving correct link position.

The present invention is preferably as follows realization.

In the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layer, the subshell that upwards is positioned at an end place at the vertical cube of subshell can comprise at least one lock arm, is used to keep by engaging the joint connector that is connected and cooperate shell with the lock part that cooperates shell.According to this structure, the subshell of setting can suitably remain by lock arm with the cooperation shell and be connected with the joint of lock part.For example, comprise at the superiors' subshell under the situation of lock arm, even by only pushing to cooperate shell to carry out attended operation bottom subshell, also can not lock arm not with situation that the lock part engages under, finish attended operation.

These one or more retainers have near the one or more ribs that are formed on its cardinal extremity place or its, along with being inserted into retainer at least in part, inserts in the opening by retainer, this rib contacts with the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening substantially, and before edge of opening basic at rib and that retainer inserts opening contact, specific gap preferably was arranged on the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening and faces on the basic whole circumference between the retainer of this edge of opening.According to this structure, ribbed joint touches before the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening when erectting subshell, and the less connection power when erectting operation is just enough.

At least a portion in these one or more ribs, preferably each rib all comprises: oriented surface, this oriented surface are used for by the edge of opening sliding contact of basic and retainer insertion opening subshell being led or being directed to the tram; And/or retaining part, this retaining part extends upward at vertical cube substantially, preferably extends from this oriented surface, and is adapted to pass through and contacts with edge of opening that retainer inserts opening and subshell is remained on proper position substantially.According to this structure, this subshell can be directed to the tram by inclined surface, and can be maintained at proper position by retaining part after the guiding operation.

Therefore, when remaining on clamped nipple in the cavity, can prevent the displacement of the subshell erect.

According to the present invention, also provide especially as the joint connector of above-mentioned the present invention or its preferred embodiment, comprising:

Subshell, this subshell can be erected in a plurality of layers and can hold the one or more clamped nipples that are connected with wire harness at least in part, and

One or more guides, this guide is outstanding from subshell, and can when being connected with the cooperation shell, the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layers be inserted at least in part in the one or more corresponding direction recess that is formed in the cooperation shell, so that the attended operation of two shells is led

By subshell was installed in the checkout facility before erectting, and make and be arranged in the checkout facility or one or more conducting probes at checkout facility place contact with clamped nipple, and be electrically connected test, to judge whether clamped nipple is connected with correct wire harness, and/or whether this clamped nipple correctly is arranged in the operated corresponding subshell

Wherein:

In difference setting and/or difformity to corresponding subshell, one or more otch are formed in the guide end of guide or near it, and

Detectable moiety is arranged to, is arranged by making detector and conducting probe branch, and when being electrically connected test, surveying existing or do not exist and/or the difformity of this otch of otch, thus type that can each subshell of identification.

Therefore, particularly,, obtain the operability that improves by making wire harness correct laying after subshell is erect.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, provide a kind of joint connector, comprising:

Subshell, this subshell can be erected in a plurality of layers and can hold the clamped nipple that is connected with wire harness, and

Guide, this guide is outstanding from subshell, and can be inserted in the direction recess that is formed in the cooperation shell at the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layers when cooperating shell to be connected, so that the attended operation of two shells is led,

By subshell was installed in the checkout facility before erectting, and the conducting probe that is arranged in the checkout facility is contacted with clamped nipple, and be electrically connected test, to judge whether clamped nipple is connected with correct wire harness, and along with two shells connect, this clamped nipple be arranged on the mating terminals joint that cooperates in the shell and be electrically connected

Wherein:

In the difference to corresponding subshell was provided with, otch was formed in the guide end of guide, and

Detectable moiety is arranged to, and is arranged by making detector and conducting probe branch, whether exist when being electrically connected test, to survey otch, thus type that can each subshell of identification.

According to this structure, by the clamped nipple that will be connected with wire harness be contained in the subshell and make conducting probe and erect before subshell in clamped nipple contact, and be electrically connected test, whether be connected to judge clamped nipple with correct wire harness.Be electrically connected test period at this, survey the otch that is formed in the detectable moiety by detector, but the type of identification subshell.Therefore, can check in being electrically connected test whether clamped nipple is contained in the correct subshell.Therefore, can prevent wire harness laying mistakenly after subshell is erect.

The present invention is preferably as follows realization.

This detector is a contact pickup, and if be formed with otch, then this transducer does not contact, and if do not have otch to form, then contact with the guide end of guide.According to this structure, use the existence of the detectable otch of contact pickup or do not exist.

In the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layer, this detector and/or this one or more otch can be set in place in each subshell that the centre position is located, and do not comprise the subshell that is positioned at the relative end that vertical cube makes progress.That is, in joint connector, the subshell that is positioned at the centre position normally those settings and shape is identical in appearance.So possible situation is that clamped nipple is contained in the wrong subshell.Therefore, do not need to check the subshell of all settings.By only checking that the subshell that is positioned at the centre position has improved checking efficiency.

Therefore, can after erectting, correctly lay subshell wire harness.

According to the present invention, also provide especially according to the present invention or the method for the assembling joint connector of its preferred embodiment, comprise the steps:

The subshell that can be erected in a plurality of layers is provided, and wherein one or more prodgers are arranged on the outside of corresponding subshell, outstanding on the direction of intersecting with the vertical cube of subshell,

One or more clamped nipples are contained in one or more respective cavities at least in part, and this cavity is arranged in the corresponding subshell, and

Along vertical cube to erectting these a plurality of subshells, wherein by one or more identification projections are contained in one or more identification recesses at least in part, realize correct the setting, this identification projection is arranged on the matching surface of a side of corresponding prodger, this identification recess is arranged in the matching surface of opposite side, and the interference by identification projection and identification recess has avoided the mistake of subshell to erect.

The subshell that can be erected in a plurality of layer is provided, and wherein one or more retainers insert in the matching surface of a side that openings are formed on corresponding subshell,

One or more clamped nipples are contained in one or more respective cavities at least in part, and this cavity is arranged in the corresponding subshell, and wherein this cavity is communicated with this one or more retainers insertion openings, and

Along vertical cube to erectting these a plurality of subshells, thereby inserting opening from the outstanding one or more retainers of the matching surface of opposite side by retainer is inserted in the cavity at least in part, with locking and/or maintenance clamped nipple it is contained in the cavity at least in part

Wherein, one or more ribs are at least partially disposed between the edge of opening and the retainer of basic side to this edge of opening of retainer insertion opening, are used for preventing the one or more directions displacements of the correct subshell of erectting along the plane that is positioned at matching surface.

The subshell that can be erected in a plurality of layers is provided,

One or more clamped nipples that will be connected with wire harness are contained in the corresponding sub-housing at least in part, and

Along vertical cube to erectting these a plurality of subshells,

The subshell of this setting is assembled with cooperating shell, thereby when the subshell in being erected at a plurality of layers is connected with the cooperation shell, be inserted into the one or more corresponding direction recess that is formed on the cooperation shell at least in part from the outstanding one or more guides of subshell, so that the attended operation of two shells is led

Wherein:

Description of drawings

After the detailed description to preferred embodiments and drawings below reading, these and other purposes of the present invention, feature and advantage will become clearer and more definite.Should be understood that although each embodiment is described separately, its single feature is also capable of being combined in additional embodiments.

Perspective view shown in the accompanying drawing 1 shows the state before joint connector and intermediate connector are connected among first embodiment,

Perspective view shown in the accompanying drawing 2 shows this joint connector and is connected state afterwards with intermediate connector,

Vertical cutaway view shown in the accompanying drawing 3 shows this joint connector and is connected state afterwards with intermediate connector,

Accompanying drawing 4 is front views of this intermediate connector,

Accompanying drawing 5 is horizontal cross of this intermediate connector,

Accompanying drawing 6 is that the perspective view that subshell is straightened (build up) state before is shown,

Accompanying drawing 7 is that the perspective view that this subshell is erect state afterwards is shown,

Accompanying drawing 8 is that the front view that this subshell is erect state before is shown,

Accompanying drawing 9 is that the rearview that this subshell is erect state before is shown,

Accompanying drawing 10 is upward views of first subshell,

Accompanying drawing 11 is plane graphs of second subshell,

Accompanying drawing 12 is upward views of this second subshell,

Accompanying drawing 13 is plane graphs of the 3rd subshell,

Accompanying drawing 14 is upward views of the 3rd subshell,

Accompanying drawing 15 is plane graphs of the 4th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 16 is upward views of the 4th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 17 is plane graphs of the 5th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 18 is upward views of the 5th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 19 is plane graphs of the 6th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 20 shows the front view of joint connector, and wherein subshell is erected in this joint connector on two levels,

Accompanying drawing 21 is front views that joint connector is shown, and wherein subshell is erected in this joint connector on three levels,

Accompanying drawing 22 is front views that joint connector is shown, and wherein subshell is erected in this joint connector on four levels,

Accompanying drawing 23 is front views that joint connector is shown, and wherein subshell is erected in this joint connector on five levels,

Accompanying drawing 24 is perspective views that the state of the mistake setting that prevents corresponding subshell is shown,

Accompanying drawing 25 is plane graphs that the state of the mistake setting that prevents corresponding subshell is shown,

Accompanying drawing 26 is plane graphs that the state of the mistake setting that prevents to revise subshell among the embodiment is shown,

Accompanying drawing 27 is front views of this first subshell,

Accompanying drawing 28 is front views of this second subshell,

Accompanying drawing 29 is front views of the 3rd subshell,

Accompanying drawing 30 is front views of the 4th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 31 is front views of the 5th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 32 is front views of the 6th subshell,

Accompanying drawing 33 is views that the state of corresponding subshell displacement is shown,

Accompanying drawing 34 is that the view that second subshell is electrically connected the state of test is shown,

Accompanying drawing 35 is that the view that the 3rd subshell is electrically connected the state of test is shown,

Accompanying drawing 36 is that the view that the 4th subshell is electrically connected the state of test is shown,

Accompanying drawing 37 is that the view that the 5th subshell is electrically connected the state of test is shown,

Accompanying drawing 38 is that the view that in another embodiment the 4th subshell is electrically connected the state of test is shown,

Reference numerals list

10,50 joint connectors

12 lock arms

13 hand push parts

21 intermediate connectors (cooperation shell)

24 intermediate terminals (mating terminals joint)

25 lock holes (lock part)

27 direction recess

31 prodgers

32 cavitys

34 retainers insert opening

35 retainers

The 35A rib

35B oriented surface

The 35C retaining part

36 guides

The 36A otch

40 clamped nipples

51 projections (detector)

A (A1 to A5) identification projection

B (B1 to B5) identification recess

S (S1 to S6) subshell

C contact probe (detector)

The E conducting probe

The W wire harness

Embodiment

Describe the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

＜unitary construction 〉

Can install at least in part or be inserted into according to the joint connector 10 of present embodiment in the installation recess 22 (hereinafter describing) of intermediate connector 20, as shown in accompanying drawing 1.The one or more clamped nipples 40 that are connected with homologous lines and/or wire harness W at least in part or can be contained at least in part in the joint connector 10.If two joint connector 10 to small parts are installed in corresponding (preferred relative substantially) side of intermediate connector 20, then be arranged in the intermediate connector 20 or intermediate terminal (example of " mating terminals joint ") 24 at intermediate connector 20 places and clamped nipple 40 are electrically connected, thus line that is connected with two joint connectors 10 and/or wire harness W electrical connection.Herein, about forward and backward directions, the closure according to joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 is called the front side with connected side.

After joint connector 10 is installed at least in part or inserted in the intermediate connector 20, the one or more hand push parts 13 that promoted are formed near the rear portion place of each joint connector 10 or its.One or more, preferably hand push part 13 is arranged to give prominence to towards (preferred relative substantially) cross side in pairs, and is arranged to the edge of opening in the face of the installation recess 22 of intermediate connector 20, makes two

connectors

10,20 correctly connect, as shown in accompanying drawing 2.

The structure of＜joint connector 〉

Each joint connector 10 all comprises the setting shell of being made by for example synthetic resin 11, it is by erectting one or more, for example six kinds of subshell S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6 (hereinafter, be called " each subshell S1 to S6 " or only be called subshell S) form.These subshells S in succession is being called first subshell S1, second subshell S2, three subshell S3, four subshell S4, five subshell S5 and six subshell S6 from going up most a beginning along vertical cube under the correct state of erectting of BUD.Herein, about vertical direction, according to the vertical cube of each subshell S to BUD, towards the direction of subshell S1 be called forwards to.

The first subshell S1 is provided with the lock arm 12 that is used to keep correct two

connectors

10,20 that connect.This lock arm 12 comprises that the upper surface (preferably being its front end substantially) from the first subshell S1 is erect or outstanding cardinal extremity part 12A and extend back substantially and (preferred basic cantilever beam shape) arm portion 12B of strain substantially up and down from this cardinal extremity part 12A.Be used for the latching segment 12C that separates that lock arm 12 unlocks is arranged near the rear end of this arm portion 12B or its.And locking projection 12D outside or that project upwards is formed on the preferred slightly in the position of separating latching segment 12C front of arm portion 12B.

The structure of＜intermediate connector 〉

This intermediate connector 20 comprises the intermediate case of being made by for example synthetic resin (example of " cooperation shell ") 21, and this intermediate case 21 is provided with two or more, preferably has the installation recess 22 of open front side and rear side in pairs.At two the midfeather of separating between the recess 22 23 being installed is formed in the intermediate case 21.Towards another recess 22 is installed and is at least partially disposed on the midfeather 23 (preferably by pressed or installed) by recess 22 being installed, fix or locate this intermediate terminal 24 from one.As shown in accompanying drawing 5, one or more, for example three intermediate terminals 24 preferably are disposed on width and/or the vertical direction with specific (that preset or predeterminable).And, as shown in accompanying drawing 3, one or more, the basic place, both sides that as one man vertically is arranged among second to the 6th subshell S2, the S6 with each clamped nipple 40 and is in each intermediate terminal 24 of five tongue-shaped terminals for example, and/or make up vertical adjacent tongue-shaped terminal by being connected to each other.Should be understood that, groove 22 is installed is had any relative orientation, for example they can so be provided with the basic opposite side opening to intermediate connector 20, perhaps they can be with each other in the angle setting that is not equal to 0 ° or 180 °, the setting that preferably is perpendicular to one another substantially, thus angled intermediate connector 20 connecting line/wire harness under respective angles caused.

Inwardly and penetrate on the outward direction the one or more of recess 22 are installed, preferably in pairs lock hole 25 be formed on intermediate case 21 horizontal (on) in the surface.Along with joint connector 10 to small part is installed or is inserted in the installation recess 22, locking projection 12D installs at least in part or is inserted into the lock hole 25 from recess 22 inboards are installed.Locking projection 12D can remain two

correct connectors

10,20 that connect, and it is held by engaging with the interior perimeter surface of lock hole 25.Should be noted in the discussion above that the standing part 26 that will be fixed on the mounting column (stay, not shown) is arranged on the side surface of intermediate case 21.

One or more direction recess 27 are preferred to be formed on along basic forward and backward directions in (preferred relative substantially) cross side of interior perimeter surface of installation recess 22 of intermediate connector 21.These one or more direction recess 27 form and corresponding subshell S basically identical, and can be inserted into wherein at least in part from the outstanding one or more guides 36 of (preferred relative substantially) cross side of main body 30.In this way, can advantageously lead to the attended operation of two

connectors

10,20.

The structure of＜each subshell 〉

As shown in accompanying drawing 6, each subshell S comprises (preferred tabular substantially or smooth) main body 30 and near locate or give prominence to towards (preferred relative substantially) cross side it at the rear portion of this main body 30 one or more prodgers 31.Among second to the 6th subshell S2 to S6 each all is formed with and substantially penetrates and preferably be arranged on transversely one or more on forward and backward directions, three cavitys 32 for example, and these one or more clamped nipples 40 can be from the inserting side, preferably substantially from behind, be received at least in part in these one or more cavitys 32.At least one lock lance bar 33 so is formed on the horizontal or side-walls of each cavity 32, make and to be inserted into (preferably substantially in the horizontal) strain on the direction that the direction of cavity 32 intersects with clamped nipple 40, and preferred basic by lock lance bar 33 and clamped nipple 40 from the engaging of cross side, clamped nipple 40 can be held in and be maintained in the cavity 32.

These are one or more, and for example three cavitys, 32 common retainers insert openings 34 and form each a surface (for example, upper surface) that penetrates second to the 6th subshell S2 to S6.A plurality of (for example, three) cavity 32 inserts opening 34 by retainer and is communicated with the outside of cavity 32.On the other hand, one or more (for example, three) retainer 35 is formed on cooperation (descending) surface of adjacent shells S1 to S5 (preferably on each of first to the 5th subshell S1 to S5) or outstanding from it, when each subshell S correctly places, this retainer inserts opening 34 by retainer and enters corresponding one or more (for example, three) cavity 32 at least in part.This retainer 35 clamped nipple 40 can be held in make its by be inserted into cavity 32 at least in part in the clamped nipple 40 (preferably its rear end) of the insertion position that is in the main true engage and be maintained in the cavity 32.In other words, clamped nipple 40 is retained and makes it preferably be subjected to dual maintenance by the joint of lock lance bar 33 and the joint of retainer 35.

After each subshell S erect, sidewall and retainer that specific (that preset or predeterminable) gap is arranged on retainer 35 inserted between the edge of opening of opening 34, with the connection power that reduces to be applied in.Yet because the existence in these gaps, each subshell S is substantially at the forward and backward directions superior displacement.The result, if two

connectors

10,20 connect, for example by only promoting the 6th subshell S6 in the bottom, then such situation can occur, wherein subshell is more backward towards the superiors displacements and can't realize the locking undertaken by lock arm 12 among the first subshell S1 in the superiors.As the reply means, be used to prevent that retainer 35 and retainer from inserting the one or more rib 35A that occur backlash between the edge of opening of opening 34 and being arranged near the cardinal extremity of retainer 35.

One or more, be preferably to guide 36 basic on Width (the preferred relative substantially) cross side from main body 30 outstanding.These guides 36 form slidably to small part and are inserted in one or more direction recess 27, thereby can lead to the attended operation of two

shells

10,20, this direction recess is formed in (preferred relative substantially) cross side of interior perimeter surface of installation recess 22 of intermediate case 21.Be used for each subshell S along vertical cube before BUD is straightened near one or more otch 36A of the type of checking process identification subshell S are preferably formed in the leading edge place of guide 36 or its.In this checking process, can check whether the wire harness W that is connected with respective terminal joint 40 correctly connects, and, can check whether the clamped nipple 40 that is connected with wire harness W is contained among the correct subshell S at least in part by preferably utilizing the probe (not shown) to survey otch 36A.

Than the upper surface of main body 30 project upwards more one or more, preferably four elastic locking spares 37 are arranged on the upper surface of guide 36 or the upper surface place.These four elastic locking spares 37 are arranged to basic side and are separated at interval with specific (that preset or predeterminable) to Width and/or on forward and backward directions.Basic inwardly outstanding lock pawl 37A is arranged on the protruding terminus place of each elastic locking spare 37, and a side that has lock pawl 37A of this elastic locking spare 37 can be shifted.On the other hand, but bonding part 38 is formed on corresponding guide 36 belows of first to the 5th subshell S1 to S5, as shown in accompanying drawing 8, but should bonding part can engage, with main body 30 maintenances that will be vertically adjacent or be locked in upright state with the lock pawl 37A of elastic locking spare 37.

The mistake of＜each subshell is erect and is prevented structure 〉

As shown in accompanying drawing 7,, form hand push part 13 by the corresponding prodger 31 of each subshell S of tight setting.Identification projection A one downward (towards adjacent subshell S) below the matching surface of each prodger 31 is outstanding, and is used for the identification recess B that identification projection A is at least partially housed in wherein is arranged on a top matching surface.These identification projection A and identification recess B make each subshell S correctly be erected at vertical cube on BUD at the upwards basic aligning of the vertical cube of each subshell S.Therefore, interval between each identification projection A and the interval between each identification recess are preferably all equal substantially.

Next, the detailed construction of the identification projection A of each subshell S and identification recess B is described in succession since the first subshell S1.Each identification projection A begins to be called as the first identification projection A1, the second identification projection A2, the 3rd identification projection A3, the 4th identification projection A4 and the 5th identification projection A5 from the top, and each identification recess B begins to be called as the first identification recess B1, the second identification recess B2, the 3rd identification recess B3, the 4th identification recess B4 and the 5th identification recess B5 from the top.

As shown in accompanying drawing 10, one or more, the preferably paired first identification projection A1 forms from the lower surface of the corresponding prodger 31 of the first subshell S1 outstanding downwards.This first identification projection A1 preferably has L shaped substantially cross section, extend before the wherein L shaped side direction, and its opposite side extends internally on Width.

As shown in accompanying drawing 11, one or more, the preferably paired first identification recess B1 so is formed in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31 of the second subshell S2, thereby to lower recess.Each first identification recess B1 has the hole shape with the shape of cross section basically identical of the first identification projection A1, thereby the corresponding first identification projection A1 can be contained in wherein at least in part.On the other hand, the paired second identification projection A2 forms from the lower surface of the corresponding prodger 31 of the second subshell S2 outstanding downwards, as shown in accompanying drawing 12.This second identification projection A2 preferably has the L shaped substantially cross section that is similar to the first identification projection A1, but directed different, particularly wherein this L shaped side extends back, and its another side extends internally on Width.

As shown in accompanying drawing 13, one or more, the preferably paired second identification recess B2 so is formed in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31 of the 3rd subshell S3, thereby to lower recess.Each second identification recess B2 has the hole shape with the shape of cross section basically identical of the second identification projection A2, thereby the corresponding second identification projection A2 can be contained in wherein at least in part.On the other hand, paired the 3rd identification projection A3 forms from the lower surface of the corresponding prodger 31 of the 3rd subshell S3 outstanding downwards, as shown in accompanying drawing 14.The 3rd identification projection A3 preferably has the L shaped substantially cross section that is similar to the first identification projection A1, but directed different, particularly wherein extend before this L shaped side direction, and its opposite side stretches out on Width.

As shown in accompanying drawing 15, one or more, preferably paired the 3rd identification recess B3 so is formed in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31 of the 4th subshell S4, thereby to lower recess.Each the 3rd identification recess B3 has the hole shape with the shape of cross section basically identical of the 3rd identification projection A3, thereby corresponding the 3rd identification projection A3 can be contained in wherein at least in part.On the other hand, one or more, preferably paired the 4th identification projection A4 forms from the lower surface of the corresponding prodger 31 of the 4th subshell S4 outstanding downwards, as shown in accompanying drawing 16.The 4th identification projection A4 has the L shaped substantially cross section that is similar to the first identification projection A1, but directed different, particularly wherein extend after this L shaped side direction, and its opposite side stretches out on Width.

As shown in accompanying drawing 17, one or more, preferably paired the 4th identification recess B4 so is formed in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31 of the 5th subshell S5, thereby to lower recess.This corresponding the 4th identification recess B4 has the hole shape with the shape of cross section basically identical of the 4th identification projection A4, thereby corresponding the 4th identification projection A4 can be at least partially housed in wherein.On the other hand, one or more, preferably paired the 5th identification projection A5 forms from the lower surface of the corresponding prodger 31 of the 5th subshell S5 outstanding downwards, as shown in accompanying drawing 18.The 5th identification projection A4 has basic rectangular cross section.

As shown in accompanying drawing 19, one or more, preferably paired the 5th identification recess B5 so is formed in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31 of the 6th subshell S6.This corresponding the 5th identification recess B5 has the hole shape with the shape of cross section basically identical of the 5th identification projection A5, thereby corresponding the 5th identification projection A5 can be at least partially housed in wherein.The length of the side of the 5th identification recess B5 preferably is arranged to equal or substantially greater than the length of the L shaped respective side of first to fourth identification recess A1 to A4.So corresponding the 5th identification recess B5 not only can hold the 5th identification projection A5 to small part, but also can hold among the first to fourth identification projection A1 to A4 any one.In other words, the 6th subshell S6 plays the effect of common subshell, and it can be used for replacing among second to the 5th subshell S2 to S5 any one.

The specific examples of combination has been shown in accompanying drawing 20 to 23.Accompanying drawing 20 is front views, shows the state that the first and the 6th subshell S1, S6 erect to BUD along vertical cube.Accompanying drawing 21 is front views, shows the state that first, second and the 6th subshell S1, S2 and S6 are erect.Accompanying drawing 22 is front views, shows the state that the first, second, third and the 6th subshell S1, S2, S3 and S6 erect.Accompanying drawing 23 is front views, shows the state that the first, second, third, fourth and the 6th subshell S1, S2, S3, S4 and S6 erect.

Therefore, as shown in accompanying drawing 10 to 19, corresponding identification projection A preferably has L shaped substantially cross section, and corresponding identification recess B has shape of cross section basically identical or basic complementary hole shape with corresponding identification projection A, and only on BUD, during correct the setting, can hold corresponding projection A at vertical cube as subshell S to small part.As shown in accompanying drawing 6, each identification projection A begins to be called the first identification projection A1, the second identification projection A2, the 3rd identification projection A3, the 4th identification projection A4 and the first identification projection A5 from the top.Be similar to identification projection A, each identification recess B begins to be called the first identification recess B1, the second identification recess B2, the 3rd identification recess B3, the 4th identification recess B4 and the 5th identification recess B5 from the top.

The function of＜present embodiment 〉

Next, the as above function of the present embodiment of structure is described.

At first, clamped nipple 40 to the small part that is connected with wire harness W is inserted in specific (that preset or predeterminable) cavity 32.After the insertion of all clamped nipples 40 was all finished, subshell S erect or piles up or be provided with or be placed on the top of each other to BUD along vertical cube.When the first and second subshell S1, S2 erect, the corresponding first identification projection A1 was at least partially housed among the corresponding first identification recess B1, thereby allowed the setting of two subshell S1, S2.Like this, when these one or more lock pawl 37A move past bonding part 38, preferably substantially on Width outwards during strain, this elastic locking spare 37 is to the small part elastic return, to engage lock pawl 37A and bonding part 38 for elastic locking spare 37 simultaneously.In this way, the first and second subshell S1, S2 keep erectting.

The situation of the mistake combination of attempting to erect subshell S has been described herein.For example, if as shown in accompanying drawing 24, attempt to erect the first and the 3rd subshell S1, S3, then one or more bottom end of these one or more corresponding first identification projection A1 are disturbed the respective openings edge of the corresponding second identification recess B2, as shown in accompanying drawing 25, thereby the setting that interrupts two subshell S1, S3 is operated.So the operating personnel that carry out this setting operation notice wrong situation about erectting, and can stop the setting operation of two subshell S1, S3, and recover this setting operation with correct combination.

Erect corresponding subshell S by correct in this way, promptly the subshell S of the correct combination by will having identification projection Ai and identification recess Bi is arranged on each other and goes up structure joint connector 10.When this setting operation is finished and joint connector 10 to small part when being inserted in the installation recess 22 of intermediate connector 20, these one or more corresponding guides 36 are to small part or can be inserted in these one or more corresponding direction recess 27, so that the attended operation of two connectors 10,20 is led to small part.When locking projection 12D installs or is inserted into the lock hole 25 from inboard to the small part that recess 22 is installed, when simultaneously lock arm 12 is downwards or towards subshell S1 strain, this lock arm 12 is to the small part elastic return, so that locking projection 12D is engaged with the interior perimeter surface of lock hole 25.In this way, this joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 are subjected to locking ground or keep inseparably.Simultaneously, the clamped nipple 24 of the clamped nipple 40 of joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 is electrically connected.By to erect with top identical mode and to be connected another joint connector 10, the wire harness W that is connected with the clamped nipple 40 of two joint connectors 10 is electrically connected to each other.

As mentioned above, the above-mentioned feature of present embodiment realizes or has obtained following effect.

1. if subshell S correctly erects, the directed basically identical of the hole shape of the orientation of the shape of cross section of then identification projection A and identification recess B, thus identification projection A is contained among the identification recess B.So, can prevent that the mistake of subshell S from erectting.

2. owing to use the hand push part 13 as existing structure that identification projection A and identification recess B are provided, so divide situation about being arranged to compare with identification projection A and identification recess B, joint connector 10 can be made lessly.

3. owing to constitute or the prodger 31 that forms the part of hand push part 13 is arranged near the place, rear portion of subshell S or its, thus do not need inwall attenuation with cavity 32, thus can not reduce the intensity of joint connector 10.

4. because identification projection A and identification recess B can be at the upwards basic alignings of vertical cube, fixing at interval between interval and the corresponding identification recess B between the wherein corresponding identification projection A be not so exist in the possibility that increases joint connector 10 on the Width.

5. because the 6th subshell S6 in the bottom can be used as common subshell, so, also subshell need be set separately in the bottom as shown in the accompanying drawing 20 to 23 even the quantity of the layer of joint connector 10 changes.

Since hand push part 13 be arranged near the rear portion place of joint connector 10 or its, so with joint connector 10 with after intermediate connector 20 is connected, can stably promote joint connector 10, up to two

connectors

10,20 correctly till the connection.

Therefore, erect easy to operate carrying out in order to erect to make by the mistake that prevents subshell, joint connector 10 is provided with a plurality of subshell S (S1 to S6) that can be erected on a plurality of layer, one or more cavitys 32 and the one or more prodger 31 that can hold clamped nipple 40 to small part, and this prodger is arranged on the outside of corresponding subshell S and is giving prominence on the direction of intersecting with the vertical cube of subshell S and forming hand push part 13 by erectting this subshell S.Along with the subshell S that is erected in a plurality of layer is installed in the intermediate connector 20 by hand push part 13 being pushed to intermediate connector 20, clamped nipple 40 is electrically connected with intermediate terminal 24 in being arranged on intermediate connector 20.Identification projection A is arranged on following of matching surface of corresponding prodger 31, and identification recess B is arranged among top of matching surface, if wherein subshell S correctly erects, then identification recess B is contained in identification projection A wherein.

＜modification embodiment 〉

Next, with reference to accompanying drawing 26 modification preferred embodiment of the present invention is described.

The main difference part of the joint connector 50 of present embodiment and the joint connector 10 of first embodiment is, has partly revised the structure of identification projection A and identification recess B, and no longer describes other repetition or like configurations, function and effect.

The identification projection A of joint connector 50 is arranged on the lower surface of corresponding prodger 31, and on forward and backward directions, having the cylindrical form of long basic rectangular cross section.On the other hand, identification recess B is separately positioned in the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31, and has the consistent hole shape of shape of cross section with identification projection A.If each subshell S correctly erects, then since each identification projection A between the interval and each identification recess B between be consistent at interval, so corresponding identification projection A is received among the corresponding identification recess B.So, unless each subshell S correctly erect, otherwise the interval between each identification projection A not with each identification recess B between the interval consistent, as shown in accompanying drawing 26, so subshell S can't erect.In other words, the formed surface of corresponding identification recess B (upper surface of corresponding prodger 31) is disturbed in the bottom of each identification projection A, thereby interrupts erectting operation.

As mentioned above, in the present embodiment,, otherwise only by being provided with, can be easy to prevent that the mistake of each subshell S from erectting so that the interval between the interval between each identification projection A and each the identification recess B is inconsistent unless each subshell S correctly erects.In other words, different with first embodiment, do not need to make identification projection A to be formed with complicated shape of cross section and they are arranged on the corresponding matching surface with different orientations.Therefore, identification projection A can have as basic rectangular shape or round-shaped and so on simple cross-section shape.

＜further revise

The present invention not only is confined to embodiment described and illustrated above.For example, following embodiment is also within the technical scope of the present invention that is defined by the claims.

(1) although illustrated that in the above-described embodiments wherein each subshell is erected at two to six joint connectors 10 on the layer, the present invention also can be applicable to each subshell S wherein be erected at three, four, five, seven or more multi-layered on joint connector.

(2) although in first embodiment, hand push part 13 is outstanding towards relative cross side at place, the rear portion of joint connector 10, and according to the present invention, what hand push part also can be to relative cross side is any one side-prominent.

(3) although in the above-described embodiments, hand push part 13 is on the Width outstanding at the rear portion of joint connector 10, and according to the present invention, they also can be given prominence to backward or with any other angle.

(4) although in the above-described embodiments, identification projection A is formed on the lower surface of corresponding prodger 31, and according to the present invention, they also can be formed on the upper surface of corresponding prodger 31.This point also is applied to identification recess B similarly.In other words, identification projection A can be arranged on the matching surface of a subshell, and corresponding identification recess B is arranged on the matching surface of subshell S, with adjacent setting.

(5) although in first embodiment, identification projection A forms has L shaped substantially cross section, and the shape of cross section of identification projection A just is not limited to L shaped substantially, as long as its shape of cross section can the correct combination of identification.For example, identification projection A can form has basic T, Z or X-shaped cross section.

(6) although in the above-described embodiments, each identification projection A is lateral symmetry formation on each matching surface, and according to the present invention, they are in the same direction orientable.

(7) although in the above-described embodiments, under the situation of the quantity of the layer that changes joint connector 10, the 6th subshell on the bottom according to the present invention, does not always need to use the subshell in the bottom as common subshell.

＜be used to prevent the structure of each subshell displacement 〉

Next, the structure of the displacement of each the subshell S that is used to prevent preferred embodiment is described with reference to accompanying drawing 27 to 31.

Specific (default or predeterminable) gap be arranged between one or more periphery walls that retainer inserts the edge of opening of opening 34 and retainer 35 to small part, on the preferred basic whole circumference, this retainer basic side is to the connection power of edge of opening to reduce to be applied after erectting each subshell S.Yet if these gaps are set, each subshell S can be along one or more directions displacements on the plane of the matching surface that is arranged in each subshell S.So, as shown in accompanying drawing 27 to 31, one or more rib 35A are arranged near cardinal extremity place on the front surface of retainer 35 or its, and this rib is used for filling up the gap substantially in forward and backward directions substantially, to prevent that each subshell S is at the forward and backward directions superior displacement.

Because rib 35A preferably is formed among each subshell S, so describe them as an example with the first subshell S1 basic identically.As shown in accompanying drawing 27, each rib 35A all substantially for vertically extending the form of the cylinder of (perhaps extending to BUD along vertical cube), excise forward by cross section (preferred fundamental triangle cross section) and/or its bottom comer preferred angled of preferably having convergence substantially.More particularly, before being tilted to and upwardly extending oriented surface 35B is formed on (end) distolateral place far away of rib 35A, and preferably plays the effect of retaining part 35C from the upwardly extending part of front end (upper end) of this oriented surface 35B.By front side sliding contact basic when erectting subshell S and that retainer inserts the edge of opening of opening 34, this oriented surface 35B can or be directed to the tram substantially with each subshell S guiding.And the guiding operation of following oriented surface 35B is inserted the preceding side contacts of the edge of opening of opening 34 by basic and retainer, and this portion of the handle 35C can or be positioned at the position that is in the main true with each subshell S maintenance.

Although in the present embodiment, first to the 5th subshell S1 to S5 is provided with one or more rib 35A and second to the 6th subshell S2 to S6 is formed with one or more retainers insertion openings 34, but second to the 6th subshell S2 to S6 can be formed with one or more rib 35A, and first to the 5th subshell S1 to S5 can be formed with one or more retainers insertion openings 34.Although in the present embodiment, rib 35A preferably is arranged on the retainer 35, and they also can be arranged on the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening 34, perhaps also can be arranged on the edge of opening of rib 35A and retainer insertion opening 34.And although in the present embodiment, the subshell S displacement on forward and backward directions substantially is restricted, and the displacement on Width also can be restricted certainly in addition or alternative.

The function of＜present embodiment 〉

At first, clamped nipple 40 to the small part that is connected with wire harness W is inserted in specific (that preset or predeterminable) cavity 32.After the insertion of all clamped nipples 40 was all finished, subshell S erect to BUD along vertical cube.For example, erectting under the situation of the first and second subshell S1, S2, each first identification projection A1 is received among the corresponding first identification recess B1 or cooperates with it to small part, thereby allows the setting of two subshell S1, S2.

At this moment, the retainer 35 of the first subshell S1 enters cavity 32 by retainer insertion opening 34 to the small part of the second subshell S2.(default or predeterminable) gap is arranged between the edge of opening and the periphery wall in the face of the retainer 35 of this edge of opening that retainer inserts opening 34, so reduced to erect the connection power of operating period because specific.The oriented of rib 35A surface 35B with or the edge of opening sliding contact that can insert opening 34 with retainer, thereby each subshell S led or be directed to the tram.Subsequently, the preferred basic edge of opening with retainer insertion opening 34 of the retaining part 35C of rib 35A contacts, thereby each subshell S keeps or locatees or be positioned at proper position.

Basic and these operations abreast, elastic locking spare 37 is outside simultaneously when lock pawl 37A moves past bonding part 38, preferably substantially on Width during strain, elastic locking spare 37 is to the small part elastic return, with joint lock pawl 37A and bonding part 38.So subshell S keeps or is positioned at upright state.By correctly erectting in this way after each subshell S constructs, joint connector 10 is to small part or can be inserted in the installation recess 22 of intermediate connector 20 to small part.

At this moment, this one or more corresponding guides 36 to small part is inserted in one or more corresponding direction recess 27, so that the attended operation of two

connectors

10,20 is led.And, when locking projection 12D (preferred substantially from the inboard of recess 22 is installed) is installed to the lock hole 25 to small part, simultaneously during the inside or downward strain of lock arm 12, lock arm 12 is to the small part elastic return, so that locking projection 12D is engaged with the interior perimeter surface of lock hole 25.In this way, joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 are held inseparably, and the intermediate terminal 24 of the clamped nipple 40 of joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 is electrically connected.By erectting in the same manner as described above and being connected another joint connector 10, the wire harness W that is connected with the clamped nipple 40 of two joint connectors 10 is electrically connected to each other.

Therefore, in order to prevent the displacement of subshell, joint connector is provided with two or more subshells S that can be erected in a plurality of layers, one or more cavitys 32, this cavity is arranged among this subshell S and one or more clamped nipples 40 can be at least partially housed in wherein, also be provided with one or more retainers and insert opening 34, this retainer inserts in the matching surface at a side place that opening is formed on corresponding subshell and with the inboard of these one or more respective cavities 32 and is communicated with, also be provided with one or more retainers 35, along with corresponding subshell S erects, this retainer also can be inserted in the respective cavities 32 by these one or more retainers insertion opening 34 to small parts from the matching surface of opposite side is outstanding, with locking and/or maintenance clamped nipple 40 it is at least partially housed in the cavity 32, and be provided with one or more rib 35A, this rib is arranged between the edge of opening and the retainer 35 of basic side to this edge of opening of retainer insertion opening 34, is used for preventing the one or more direction superior displacements of the correct subshell S that erects at the plane that is positioned at matching surface (or along in-plane).

As mentioned above, the above-mentioned feature of present embodiment realizes or obtains following effect.

1. be used to keep one or more retainers 35 of clamped nipple 40 and one or more rib 35A are arranged at least a portion of these retainers 35 by preferred use, but the displacement of siding stopping shell S.For example, even by only the 6th subshell S6 being promoted to carry out attended operation towards intermediate connector 20, because the displacement of subshell S is restricted, so also can prevent following situation, promptly, before the lock arm 12 of the first subshell S1 arrives correct link position, finish attended operation, and locking projection 12D remains and is not installed in the lock hole 25.

2. before rib 35A contact retainer inserts the edge of opening of opening 34, specific (default or predeterminable) gap preferably is arranged between the edge of opening and the periphery wall in the face of the retainer 35 of these edge of opening that retainer inserts opening 34.So, can reduce the connection power that applies after erectting each subshell S.

3. when erectting each subshell S, the edge of opening sliding contact of the oriented of rib 35A surface 35B preferred basic and retainer insertion opening 34, thus each subshell S can be directed to the tram.After this guiding operation, the retaining part 35C contact retainer of rib 35A inserts the edge of opening of opening 34, thereby each subshell S can remain on proper position.

＜revise

(1) although in the above-described embodiments, rib 35A and subshell S are whole to be provided with, and according to the present invention, they also can be arranged with subshell S branch.

(2) although in the above-described embodiments, rib 35A is outstanding at the cardinal extremity place of retainer 35, and according to the present invention, they also can form on the length direction of retainer 35 longer.In other words, specific gap does not need to be arranged on that retainer inserts the edge of opening of opening 34 and in the face of on the whole circumference between the periphery wall of the retainer 35 of this edge of opening.

(3) although in the above-described embodiments, rib 35A comprises oriented surface 35B, but according to the present invention, the oriented surface also can be arranged on the edge of opening of retainer insertion opening 34, perhaps can be arranged on the edge of opening of rib 35A and retainer insertion opening 34.

＜be used to survey the structure that the mistake of subshell is installed 〉

Next, with reference to accompanying drawing 34 to 37 structure that the mistake of the one or more subshell S that are used to survey preferred embodiment is installed is described.

Before subshell S erects, preferably be electrically connected test, whether be connected to check clamped nipple 40 with correct wire harness W.By making the front end of one or more (for example, three) conducting probe contact respective terminal joint 40 that is arranged in the checkout facility (not shown), as shown in accompanying drawing 34 to 37, can carry out this electrical connection test.Be electrically connected in the test at this, may check or verify that whether clamped nipple 40 is connected with correct wire harness W, still can not check or verify whether clamped nipple 40 is at least partially housed among the correct subshell S.Therefore, in the checkout facility of present embodiment, except conducting probe E, also be provided with contact probe (for example preferred " detector ") at least in pairs, install with the mistake of surveying subshell S.

This checkout facility comprises as the inspection unit of the integral body of conducting probe E and contact probe C or single component, the mounting portion of the subshell S before erectting wherein is installed and be used for making inspection unit near and away from the operating lever of the subshell S that is installed in the mounting portion.Each contact probe C comprises contact pickup, and when target contacted this transducer, detectable signal was sent to the controller (not shown).According to the detectable signal that transmits from contact probe C, this controller is judged or is determined the existence of otch 36A or do not exist.

On the other hand, treat to be positioned near the front end place of guide 36 of second to the 5th subshell S2 to S5 or its by the detectable moiety that contact probe C surveys.This contact probe C surveys this detectable moiety, with the type of identification subshell S, thereby can check whether clamped nipple 40 is contained among the correct subshell S.

The structure of this detectable moiety is described especially at each subshell S herein.

As shown in accompanying drawing 34, there is not otch 36A to be formed on the front end place of two guides 36 among the second subshell S2.So, the preceding end in contact of two contact probe C and two guides 36, thus detectable signal is sent to controller.

As shown in accompanying drawing 35, this otch 36A only is formed in the last guide 36 shown in the 3rd subshell S4.So, shown in go up contact probe C and contact with the surrounding wall that wherein is formed with otch A, but shown in the preceding end in contact of following probe C and guide 36, and detectable signal is sent to controller.

As shown in accompanying drawing 36, otch 36A is formed in the front end of two guides 36 among the 4th subshell S4.So two contact probe C do not contact with the surrounding wall that wherein is formed with otch 36A.

As shown in accompanying drawing 37, otch 36A only is formed in the following guide 36 shown in the 5th subshell S5.So, shown in down contact probe C contact with the surrounding wall that wherein is formed with otch 36A, but shown on the preceding end in contact of contact probe C and guide 36, and detectable signal is sent to controller.

This controller comprises one or more storage device (not shown), the existence of this memory device stores otch 36A or do not exist and/or the type of position and corresponding subshell S, also comprise the judgment means (not shown), be used for judging by reference storage device whether subshell is correct one.So, when being electrically connected test, can checking whether clamped nipple 40 is connected with correct wire harness W by conducting probe E, and check by contact probe C whether clamped nipple 40 is contained among the correct subshell S.After the 6th subshell S6 is electrically connected test, can be transformed into checking mode, wherein do not carry out the inspection of being undertaken by contact probe C.

The function of＜present embodiment 〉

At first, one or more clamped nipples 40 to the small part that is connected with wire harness W is inserted in one or more respective cavities 32.After the insertion of all clamped nipples 40 is all finished, second to the 6th subshell S2 to S6 before erectting is electrically connected test (individually or abreast).When each subshell S2 to S6 is installed in the mounting portion of checkout facility and operating lever is operated (rotating or displacement), inspection unit is near the subshell S that is installed in the mounting portion, and the front end of conducting probe E contact respective terminal joint 40, thereby check that whether clamped nipple 40 is connected with correct wire harness W.Simultaneously, contact probe C surveys detectable moiety, judging or the existing or do not exist of definite otch 36A, and judges by reference storage device whether clamped nipple 40 is at least partially housed among the correct subshell S.

After the electrical connection test of a part or preferably all subshell S2 to S6 is all finished, erect subshell S.For example, under the situation of erectting the first and second subshell S1, S2, the corresponding first identification projection A1 is at least partially housed among the corresponding first identification recess B1, thereby allows the setting of two subshell S1, S2.At this moment, one or more retainers 35 of the first subshell S1 enter one or more cavitys 32 at least in part by (corresponding) retainer insertion opening 34 of the second subshell S2.Insert the contacting of edge of opening of opening 34 by rib 35A and retainer, this corresponding subshell S1, S2 preferably keep or are positioned at the position that is in the main true.

Basic and these operations abreast, when lock pawl 37A moves past bonding part 38, outwards during strain, elastic locking spare 37 is to the small part elastic return, with joint lock pawl 37A and bonding part 38 on Width for elastic locking spare 37 simultaneously.So subshell S preferably keeps or locatees or be positioned at upright state.By correctly erectting in this way after each subshell S constructs, joint connector 10 is inserted in the installation recess 22 of intermediate connector 20.

connectors

10,20 is led.And, when locking projection 12D preferably installs or be inserted into (preferably from the inboard of recess 22 is installed) in the lock hole 25 to small part, simultaneously during the inside or downward strain of lock arm 12, this lock arm 12 is to the small part elastic return, so that locking projection 12D is engaged with the interior perimeter surface of lock hole 25.In this way, joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 preferably are held inseparably, and the intermediate terminal 24 of the clamped nipple 40 of joint connector 10 and intermediate connector 20 is electrically connected.By erectting in the same manner as described above and being connected another joint connector 10, the wire harness W that is connected with the clamped nipple 40 of two joint connectors 10 is electrically connected to each other.

As mentioned above, following effect is realized or obtained to present embodiment.

1. by utilizing guide 36 to survey the type of subshell S, can check whether clamped nipple 40 is at least partially housed among the correct subshell S, and/or check in the electrical connection test that clamped nipple 40 carried out whether be in correct setting before erectting operation.Therefore, after the setting of subshell S, can correctly lay wire harness W.

2. by adopting contact probe C, can be easy to survey the existence of the otch 36A in the front end that is formed on guide or do not exist as contact pickup.

3. preferably only be arranged on second to the 5th subshell S2 to S5 owing to detectable moiety, to check, so this inspection can be more effective by contact probe C.

＜other embodiment 〉

Next, with reference to accompanying drawing 38 another preferred embodiment of the present invention is described.The checkout facility of present embodiment so constructed so that can by they shape and/or one or more detectable moieties of surveying subshell S are set.Herein, the 4th subshell S4 is described as an example.Especially, the checkout facility of present embodiment comprises the shell holding portion 50 that can hold subshell S4 and one or more, preferably paired projection (example of preferred " detector "), this projection is arranged on the rear wall of

shell holding portion

50, and 36A is consistent with otch.Then, if be inserted into the rear end that subshell S4 in the shell holding portion 50 can be pushed to shell holding portion 50 to small part, then may detect, the subshell that is being subjected to an examination is subshell S4.On the other hand, if when (for example attempting with subshell S, the second subshell S2), rather than the 4th subshell S4 when being inserted in the shell holding portion 50, detectable moiety (front ends of two guides 36) disturbs two projections 51 and subshell can't be pushed to the rear end of shell holding portion 50, therefore may detect, this subshell is not the 4th subshell S4.

Therefore, can after erectting, correctly lay subshell in order to make wire harness, joint connector is provided with subshell S, this subshell can be erected in a plurality of layers and can hold the one or more clamped nipples 40 that are connected with wire harness W to small part, also be provided with one or more guides 36, when the subshell S in being erected at a plurality of layers is connected with intermediate case 21, this guide also can be inserted into the one or more corresponding direction recess 27 that is formed on the intermediate case 21 to small part from subshell S is outstanding, with to two

shells

11,21 attended operation is led, also be provided with one or more otch 36A, in the difference of corresponding subshell S is provided with, this otch is formed in the guide end of guide 36, and be provided with detectable moiety, be used for by making one or more contact probe C separate setting with one or more conducting probe E, when being electrically connected test, surveying existing or not existing of otch 36A, type that can identification subshell S.

＜revise

(1) although in the above-described embodiments, contact probe C and projection 51 are as detector, and according to the present invention, non-contact sensor also can be used as detector.

(2) although in first embodiment, survey the existence of otch 36A or do not exist, each subshell S can have the otch 36A of difformity and/or position, and can be each subshell S the detector that can be installed among this otch 36A is set.

(3) although in the above-described embodiments, only check the type of subshell S at the subshell S2 to S5 that is positioned at the centre position, according to the present invention, also can check all subshell S1 to S6.

(4) although in the present embodiment, detector is arranged in the checkout facility, and according to the present invention, they also can be arranged with the checkout facility branch.

Claims

1. joint connector (10; 50), comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell (S) in a plurality of layers,

One or more cavitys (32), described cavity are arranged in the corresponding subshell (S), and can hold one or more clamped nipples (40) to small part, and

One or more prodgers (31), described prodger is arranged on the outside of corresponding subshell (S), and outstanding on the direction that (BUD) intersects with the vertical cube of described subshell (S),

Wherein:

One or more identification projections (A) are arranged on the matching surface at a side place of corresponding prodger (31), and one or more identification recesses (B) are arranged on the matching surface at opposite side place, erect if described subshell (S) is correct, then described identification recess is at least partially housed in described identification projection (A) wherein.

2. joint connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein:

By erectting described subshell (S), described one or more prodgers (31) form hand push part (13),

Wherein:

When by towards cooperate shell (21) to promote or operate described when described hand push part (13) being made being erected at described subshell (S) to small part in a plurality of layers is installed in the described cooperation shell (21), described clamped nipple (40) be arranged on described cooperation shell (21) in or be arranged on one or more corresponding mating terminals joint (24) electrical connection that cooperation shell (21) is located.

3. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein:

Under the correct upright state of described subshell (S), described identification projection (A) and identification recess (B) are aimed on (BUD) each other substantially at described vertical cube,

Described identification recess (B) has the hole shape of the shape of cross section basically identical of basic and described identification projection (A), and

Erect unless described subshell (S) is correct, otherwise because the orientation of varying cross-section shape and/or hole shape and shape of cross section, the protruding terminus of described identification projection (A) disturbs the edge of opening of described identification recess (B).

4. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein:

For each subshell (S) is arranged to right prodger (31),

Paired identification projection (A) and paired identification recess (B) are provided with specific gap respectively, and

Erect unless described subshell (S) is correct, otherwise because between the described identification projection and the interval difference between the described identification recess (B), the protruding terminus of described identification projection (A) disturbs this matching surface at opposite side place.

5. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein, the described identification recess (B) that is arranged in the subshell (S6) in the bottom is configured to: the identification projection (A1 to A5) that is set in place on all subshells (A1 to A5) of described bottom top can be contained in wherein.

6. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein, described prodger (31) form the place, rear portion of described subshell (S) or near laterally projecting.

7. especially according to one in the aforementioned claim or multinomial described joint connector, comprising:

Can be erected at the subshell (S) in a plurality of layers,

One or more cavitys (32), described cavity are arranged in the described subshell (S), and one or more clamped nipples (40) can be contained in wherein at least in part,

One or more retainers insert openings (34), and described retainer inserts in the matching surface at a side place that opening is formed on corresponding subshell (S), and are communicated with the inboard of respective cavities (32), reach

One or more retainers (35), described retainer is outstanding from the matching surface of opposite side, and when corresponding subshell (S) when being straightened, described retainer can and be inserted in the described cavity (32) at least in part by described retainer insertion opening (34), to lock and/or keep to being contained in described clamped nipple (40) in the described cavity (32) at least in part

Wherein, one or more ribs (35A) are at least partially disposed on the edge of opening of described retainer insertion opening (34) and in the face of between the described retainer (35) of described edge of opening, are used for preventing that the correct described subshell of erectting (S) is along the one or more directions displacements that are positioned at plane, described matching surface place.

8. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein, described subshell (S) in being erected at a plurality of layer with cooperate shell (21) when being connected, described one or more clamped nipples (40) and be arranged on one or more mating terminals joints (24) electrical connection in the cooperation shell (21).

9. or multinomial described joint connector in the claim as described above, wherein, in the described subshell (S) in being erected in a plurality of layers, the subshell (S1) of vertical cube to an end place of (BUD) that is positioned at described subshell (S) comprises at least one lock arm (12), and described lock arm is used for keeping described joint connector (10 by engaging with the lock part (25) of described cooperation shell (21); 50) with being connected of described cooperation shell (21).

10. in the claim or multinomial as described above in conjunction with the described joint connector of claim 7, wherein:

Described one or more retainer (35) has and is formed on its cardinal extremity place or near one or more ribs (35A),

When described retainer (35) was inserted in the described retainer insertion opening (34) at least in part, the edge of opening that the basic and described retainer of described rib (35A) inserts opening (34) contacted, and

Before the edge of opening that the basic and described retainer of described rib (35A) inserts opening (34) contacts, preferably specific gap is set at the edge of opening of described retainer insertion opening (34) with in the face of the basic whole circumference between the described retainer (35) of described edge of opening.

11. in the claim or multinomial as described above in conjunction with the described joint connector of claim 7, wherein, at least a portion in described one or more rib (35A) comprises oriented surface (35B) and/or comprises retaining part (35C), described oriented surface is used for inserting the edge of opening sliding contact of opening (34) and the described subshell (S) or described subshell (S) is directed to the tram of leading towards the tram by basic and described retainer, described retaining part preferably extends to (BUD) along vertical cube substantially from described oriented surface (35B), and is suitable for by contacting with edge of opening that described retainer inserts opening (34) and described subshell (S) being remained on proper position substantially.

12. in the claim or multinomial described joint connector especially as described above comprise:

Subshell (S), described subshell can be erected in a plurality of layers, and can hold the one or more clamped nipples (40) that are connected with wire harness (W) to small part, and

From the outstanding one or more guides (36) of described subshell (S), described subshell (S) in being erected at a plurality of layer and cooperation shell (21) are when being connected, described guide can be inserted in the one or more corresponding direction recess (27) that is formed in the described cooperation shell (21) at least in part, so that the attended operation of two shells is led

By described subshell (S) was installed in the checkout facility (51) before erectting, and make and to be arranged in the checkout facility (C) or one or more conducting probes (E) that checkout facility (C) is located contact with described clamped nipple (40), thereby be electrically connected test, to judge whether described clamped nipple (40) is connected with correct wire harness (W), and/or whether described clamped nipple (40) correctly is arranged in the corresponding subshell (S)

Wherein:

The one or more otch (36A) that are used for corresponding subshell (S) with difference setting and/or difform mode be formed on described guide (36) guide end or near, and

Detectable moiety is set, and be arranged by making detector (C) divide with conducting probe (E), when being electrically connected test, surveying the existence of described otch (36A) or not exist and/or the difformity of described otch (36A), thus type that can each subshell of identification (S).

13. joint connector as claimed in claim 12, wherein:

Described detector (C) is a contact pickup, and

If form described otch (36A), then described transducer does not contact; If do not form otch, then described transducer then contacts with the guide end of described guide (36).

14. as claim 12 or 13 described joint connectors, wherein in the subshell (S) in being erected in a plurality of layers, described detector (C) and/or described one or more otch (36A) are set in place in each subshell (S2 to S5) at centre position place, but do not comprise and be positioned at the subshell (S1 of vertical cube to the relative end of (BUD); S6).

15. assembling joint connector (10; 50) method comprises the steps:

The subshell (S) that can be erected in a plurality of layers is provided, and wherein, one or more prodgers (31) are arranged on the outside of corresponding subshell (S), and outstanding on the direction that (BUD) intersects with the vertical cube of described subshell (S),

One or more clamped nipples (40) are at least partially housed in the one or more respective cavities (32) that are arranged in the corresponding subshell (S), and

Erect described a plurality of subshells (S) along described vertical cube to (BUD), wherein, by one or more identification projections (A) are contained in one or more identification recesses (B) at least in part, thereby realize correct the setting, described identification projection is arranged on the matching surface at a side place of corresponding prodger (31), described identification recess is arranged in the matching surface at opposite side place, by the interference of described identification projection (A) and described identification recess (B), avoid the mistake of described subshell (S) to erect simultaneously.

16. the method for an assembling joint connector comprises the steps:

The subshell (S) that can be erected in a plurality of layer is provided, and wherein, one or more retainers insert in the matching surface at a side place that openings (34) are formed on corresponding subshell (S),

One or more clamped nipples (40) are contained in the one or more respective cavities (32) that are arranged in the corresponding subshell (S) at least in part, and wherein, described cavity (32) is communicated with described one or more retainer and inserts opening (34), and

Erect described a plurality of subshells (S) along vertical cube to (BUD), thereby, from the outstanding one or more retainers (35) of the matching surface of opposite side by described retainer insertion opening (34) and be inserted at least in part in the described cavity (32), to lock and/or keep to being at least partially housed in described clamped nipple (40) in the described cavity (32)

Wherein, one or more ribs (35A) are at least partially disposed between the edge of opening and the described retainer (35) of basic side to described edge of opening of described retainer insertion opening (34), are used for preventing that the correct subshell of erectting (S) is shifted along the one or more directions that are positioned at plane, described matching surface place.

17. the method for an assembling joint connector comprises the steps:

The subshell (S) that can be erected in a plurality of layers is provided,

One or more clamped nipples (40) that will be connected with wire harness (W) are contained in the corresponding subshell (S) at least in part, and

Erect described a plurality of subshells (S) along vertical cube to (BUD),

The subshell (S) of described setting is assembled with cooperating shell (21), thereby, described subshell (S) in being erected at a plurality of layer and described cooperation shell (21) are when being connected, the one or more guides (36) outstanding from described subshell (S) insert the one or more corresponding direction recess (27) that is formed on the described cooperation shell (21) at least in part, so that the attended operation of two shells is led

Wherein: