KR102736935B1 - Connector for flexible cable - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connector for a flexible cable. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a connector is a connector for respectively connecting a plurality of flexible cables, which are FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), and includes: a terminal electrically connected to each of the plurality of flexible cables; a housing into which the terminal is inserted through an opening in a guide space formed by a plurality of guide walls; and a retainer having a first cover part extending in the left and right direction at a rear portion, the retainer being fastened to the housing by engaging with the housing while covering at least a portion of the opening in a state where the terminal is inserted into the housing.

Description

CONNECTOR FOR FLEXIBLE CABLE

The present invention relates to a connector for a flexible cable, and more specifically, to a connector for electrically connecting a flexible cable such as an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit).

In a device that uses electrical signals, cables and connectors that connect the cables are used to transmit various electrical signals. At this time, the connector functions to connect cables that transmit electrical signals to various connection terminals. For example, a vehicle connector can be used to connect cables that transmit various electrical signals in a vehicle to connection terminals.

Meanwhile, in the past, considering durability, etc., a wire-shaped cable (hereinafter referred to as "wire cable") (CA) was mainly used. That is, referring to FIG. 1, a wire cable (CA) includes at least one conductor (C) in the shape of a wire, and an insulating cover layer (I) which is a covering portion that wraps the conductor (C). At this time, the conductor (C) may be a wire with a circular cross-section. In particular, in the case of a vehicle, since various types of vibrations occur while the vehicle is running, a wire cable (CA) is mainly used for durability against the vibrations.

Accordingly, in order to electrically connect a wire cable (CA) to a connection terminal in a connector, a first conventional technique was used, which involved performing a soldering process or an ultrasonic welding process on the end of the wire cable (CA). That is, the first conventional technique used a method of electrically connecting the end of the wire cable (CA) and the connection terminal by soldering or ultrasonic welding, and then cleaning the connection portion and finishing it by compressing it with a shrink tube or curing it with epoxy and then wrapping it with a housing.

However, when using the first conventional technology, there is a problem that the connection work is inconvenient and takes a long time, which increases the manufacturing cost (hereinafter referred to as "the first problem"). Of course, this first problem may correspond to a problem that occurs because the connector must connect the wire cable.

Even if the first conventional technology is used, the connection structure between the connection terminal and the wire cable is very weak. Accordingly, a problem may occur in which the connection can easily come off due to vibration, etc. (hereinafter referred to as the "second problem").

Figure 1 shows an example of the second prior art.

Meanwhile, as shown in Fig. 1, a second conventional technique may be used to connect a wire cable (CA) by crimping it using a crimp-type terminal (T).

Fig. 2 shows various examples of cross sections of a terminal (T) for A-A' in Fig. 1. That is, Fig. 2(a) shows an example of a case where no air gap (G) occurs within the terminal (T), and Fig. 2(b) shows an example of a case where an air gap (G) occurs within the terminal (T).

However, when a plurality of wires exposed at the end of a cable (CA) are crimped with a terminal (T) in a crimp manner according to the second prior art, a gap (G) may be generated within the terminal (T), as shown in Fig. 2(b). In this case, a second problem may still occur in that the terminal (T) and the wire cable (CA) have a very weak connection structure and the connection may easily come off due to vibration, etc.

In addition, since the wire cable (CA) has a thick thickness, when a plurality of wire cables (CA) are used to transmit a plurality of electrical signals, the connection structure becomes very complex and bulky, which makes it difficult to apply to narrow spaces such as the interior of a vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the “third problem”).

Accordingly, a flexible cable such as an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) that can transmit multiple electrical signals at once may be used instead of a wire cable (CA). In this case, the connection structure for the flexible cable can be simply implemented to reduce the volume while transmitting multiple electrical signals at once, so it can be easily applied to narrow spaces without spatial constraints, and there is an advantage of reducing the manufacturing process and cost.

However, when the first and second conventional techniques are used to connect a connector to such a flexible cable, not only will the first problem described above still occur, but the second problem described above may become more serious. Accordingly, it is virtually impossible to connect a connecting cable using a soldering process or an ultrasonic fusion process according to the first conventional technique, and to connect a flexible cable using a crimp-type terminal (T) according to the second conventional technique.

Meanwhile, conventional cable connectors are generally connected in a male-female manner with a female connector. Hereinafter, a connector of this type is referred to as the "third conventional technology." However, in the case of the third conventional technology, there is a problem (hereinafter referred to as the "fourth problem") in which the electrical connection between the female connector and the male connector is disconnected as the connection between the female connector and the male connector becomes loose when used for a long period of time in an environment with severe shaking, such as a vehicle.

In addition, in order to use it for connecting vehicle parts, etc., a technology is needed to individually connect a plurality of flexible cables through a single connector. However, the conventional technology has a problem (hereinafter referred to as the "fifth problem") in that connection to such a plurality of flexible cables is impossible.

Accordingly, there is a need for the development of a technology that can increase the durability of the connection structure for flexible cables, can be easily applied to narrow spaces such as the interior of a vehicle without space constraints, can firmly maintain male-female bonding strength even for long-term use in environments with severe shaking, and can individually connect multiple flexible cables through a single connector.

However, the above-described content merely provides background information for the present invention and does not correspond to previously disclosed technology.

In order to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a connector technology for a flexible cable, which can more easily implement a connection structure for a flexible cable such as an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) while increasing the durability of the connection structure.

In addition, another purpose of the present invention is to provide a connector technology for a flexible cable that can be easily applied to narrow spaces such as the interior of a vehicle without space constraints.

In addition, another purpose of the present invention is to provide a new type of connector technology for a flexible cable that can easily connect a flexible cable while reducing the volume and increasing the durability of the connection structure.

In addition, another purpose of the present invention is to provide a connector technology for a flexible cable capable of increasing the male-female coupling force between a female connector and a male connector.

In addition, another purpose of the present invention is to provide a connector technology for a flexible cable capable of connecting a plurality of flexible cables through a single connector.

However, the problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a connector is provided which connects a plurality of flexible cables, which are FFC (Flexible Flat Cables) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits), respectively, and includes: a terminal which is electrically connected to each of the plurality of flexible cables; a housing in which the terminal is inserted through an opening in a guide space formed by a plurality of guide walls; and a retainer which has a first cover part extending in the left-right direction at a rear portion and which covers at least a portion of the opening while having a hooking action on the housing and is fastened to the housing in a state in which the terminal is inserted into the housing.

The above retainer further includes a plurality of insertion holes provided in the first cover portion so as to expose a portion of the opening when fastened to the housing, and the plurality of flexible cables can contact an inner surface of the insertion holes while passing through the plurality of insertion holes one by one.

The retainer may further include a first insertion portion extending in a front direction from the first cover portion so as to contact the terminal and secure the terminal when inserted into the guide space when fastened to the housing.

The above retainer may further include a second cover portion extending in a front direction from the first cover portion, and a retainer catch portion in the shape of a groove or hole provided in the second cover portion to perform a primary catch operation on the housing when fastened to the housing.

The above retainer may further include a second insert portion extending in a front direction from the first cover portion, and a first hook protruding from the second insert portion to perform a secondary engaging action on the housing when fastened to the housing.

The above housing may further include a first protrusion that engages a connector engaging portion having a hole or groove shape on the other connector when mated with the other connector.

A connector according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a fixing member that is fastened to a rear surface of the housing and fixes a male-female connection between the housing and the other connector.

The above fixing member can secure the male-female combination by engaging with the housing when fastened to the housing and maintaining the engaging action between the first protrusion and the connector engaging member.

The terminals each further include a first finger and a second finger spaced apart from each other on the front side, and when the housing is mated to another connector, a connecting pin exposed to the other connector can be inserted between the first and second fingers to contact the first and second fingers.

The first and second fingers have an elastic force that attempts to narrow the distance between them when the distance between them increases, and a contact force may be generated for the inserted connecting pin according to the elastic force.

The above terminal may further include a first bending portion for bending the first finger at the top in a downward direction, and a second bending portion for bending the second finger at the bottom in an upward direction.

The terminal further includes a third bending portion for bending a first end, which is an end of the first finger, upwardly, and a fourth bending portion for bending a second end, which is an end of the second finger, downwardly, respectively, and the connecting pin can be in non-contact with the first and second ends during the insertion process.

The third and fourth bends can act as contact points for the connecting pins being inserted.

The terminal further includes a connecting portion connected to the first connecting terminal of the flexible cable, and wherein one of the first connecting terminal and the connecting portion, the first configuration, is positioned at the bottom and the other, the second configuration, is positioned at the top, and parts of the first and second configurations have a connecting structure based on an interlock basis, so that the connecting portion can be connected to the first connecting terminal.

The above terminal further includes a connecting portion connected to a first connecting terminal of the flexible cable, and a through hole provided in the connecting portion, wherein one of the auxiliary fastening plate and the connecting portion, the first configuration, is positioned at the bottom, and the other, the second configuration, is positioned at the top, and the first connecting terminal is positioned between the first and second configurations, and a part of the first and second configurations has a connecting structure based on an interlock in the through hole, so that the connecting portion can be connected to the first connecting terminal.

The connection structure based on the above interlock may be a structure including an undercut shape in a state where some of the first and second configurations are inserted.

The first configuration includes a first indentation portion recessed in an upward direction and a first indentation wall as a side portion of the first indentation portion, and the second configuration includes a second indentation portion recessed in an upward direction corresponding to the first indentation portion and a second indentation wall as a side portion of the second indentation portion, and at least one of the first and second indentation walls may include the undercut shape.

The outer surface of the first recessed wall may include the undercut shape according to a taper whose diameter increases from the bottom to the top, and the inner surface of the second recessed wall may include the undercut according to a taper whose diameter increases from the bottom to the top, corresponding to the outer surface of the first recessed wall.

In the above undercut shape portion, the side thickness of the first indentation wall may increase from the bottom to the top, and the side thickness of the second indentation wall may decrease from the bottom to the top.

A connector according to one embodiment of the present invention can be applied to vehicles.

The present invention, which is configured as described above, has the advantage of being able to perform connection to a flexible cable such as an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) simply and quickly without the need for a soldering process or an ultrasonic fusion process. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the first problem described above.

In addition, the present invention can improve the durability of the connection structure by performing an interlock-based connection through a terminal to increase the fastening force for a flexible cable, so that the connection structure can be maintained even in an environment such as vibration. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the second problem described above.

In addition, the present invention has an advantage in that it can be easily applied to narrow spaces without space constraints because the connection structure for a flexible cable through a terminal is very simple and takes up a small volume. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the third problem described above.

In addition, the present invention can be applied not only to an environment where vibration occurs due to improved durability of the connection structure for a flexible cable through a terminal as described above, but can also be easily applied to a narrow space environment as described above, so there is an advantage in that it can be optimally applied to vehicle electrical components that are exposed to all of these environments.

In addition, since the present invention has a structure capable of increasing the male-female coupling force between the first and second connectors, there is an advantage in that the male-female coupling can be firmly maintained even when used for a long period of time in an environment with severe shaking, such as a vehicle. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the fourth problem described above.

In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to connect a plurality of flexible cables respectively through one first connector. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the fifth problem described above.

The effects obtainable from the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

Figure 1 shows an example of the second prior art.
Figure 2 shows various examples of cross sections of terminals (T) for A-A' in Figure 1.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a combination of a first connector (10), a flexible cable (20, 20') and a second connector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a first connector (10), a flexible cable (20, 20'), and a second connector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view along line a-a' in Figure 4.
FIG. 6 shows upper and lower perspective views of the front of a housing (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 shows upper and lower perspective views of the rear surface of a housing (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows a drawing of the front and back of a housing (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 illustrates various top perspective views of a retainer (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 illustrates a side view and a rear view of a retainer (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 shows upper and lower perspective views of a terminal (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 illustrates a side, plan view and front view of a terminal (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 shows upper and lower perspective views of the front of a second connector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 shows upper and lower perspective views of the rear surface of a second connector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 shows a perspective view and a side view of a fixing member (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 shows a state in which a retainer (200) and a fixing member (400) are sequentially connected to a housing (100) into which a flexible cable (20, 20') is inserted and connected.
Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional view of a plane for the second connector (30) and a cross-sectional view of a plane for a state where the housing (100) and the fixing part (400) are sequentially coupled to the second connector (30).
Fig. 18 shows a cross-sectional side view of the coupled state of the first connector (10), the flexible cable (20, 20') and the second connector (30).
FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a plane for the combined state of the second connector (30) and the housing (100), and a cross-sectional view of a plane for the combined state of the first connector (10), the flexible cable (20, 20'), and the second connector (30).
Figure 20 shows the appearance before the flexible cable (20) is connected to the terminal (300).
Figure 21 shows upper and lower perspective views of the flexible cable (20) after it is connected to the terminal (300).
Figure 22 shows a cross-sectional view along line B-B' in Figure 21.
Figure 23 shows the appearance before the flexible cable (20') and auxiliary fastening plate (40) are connected to the terminal (300).
Figure 24 shows upper and lower perspective views of the terminal (300) after the flexible cable (20') and auxiliary fastening plate (40) are connected.
Figure 25 shows a cross-sectional view along line C-C' in Figure 24.
Figure 26 shows the cases where a terminal (300) to which a flexible cable (20, 20') is connected is normally inserted into a housing (100) and the cases where it is not inserted, respectively.

The above-described objects, means and effects of the present invention will become more apparent through the following detailed description with reference to the attached drawings, so that those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily practice the technical idea of the present invention. In addition, when explaining the present invention, if it is judged that a specific description of a known technology related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, the singular also includes the plural, unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase. In this specification, the terms "include," "have," "provide," or "have" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components other than the mentioned components.

In this specification, the terms "or", "at least one", etc. can refer to one of the words listed together, or can refer to a combination of two or more. For example, "A or B", "at least one of A and B" can include only one of A or B, or can include both A and B.

In this specification, the description using the word “for example” or the like should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of the present invention by any means, including but not limited to, variations in tolerances, measurement errors, limitations of measurement accuracy, and other commonly known factors, as well as the information presented, such as cited characteristics, variables, or values, may not be exact matches.

In this specification, when a component is described as being 'connected' or 'connected' to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when a component is described as being 'directly connected' or 'directly connected' to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

In this specification, when a component is described as being "on" or "in contact with" another component, it should be understood that it may be in direct contact with or connected to the other component, but that there may be another component in between. On the other hand, when a component is described as being "directly on" or "in direct contact with" another component, it can be understood that there is no another component in between. Other expressions that describe the relationship between components, such as "between" and "directly between", can be interpreted similarly.

In this specification, the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. Also, the terms should not be construed to limit the order of each component, and may be used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, the "first component" may be named the "second component," and similarly, the "second component" may also be named the "first component."

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification may be used with a meaning that can be commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. In addition, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries shall not be ideally or excessively interpreted unless explicitly specifically defined.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 26, the first connector (10) and the second connector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention are connectors for connecting flexible cables (20, 20'). To this end, the flexible cable (20, 20') to which the terminal (300) is connected may be inserted into the first connector (10) and connected, and in the connected state, the first connector (10) may be connected to the second connector (30) by male-female coupling. The first connector (10) may be differently referred to as "this connector", and the second connector (30) may be differently referred to as "another connector".

At this time, the first connector (10) can act as a male connector for the second connector (30), and the second connector (20) can act as a female connector for the first connector (10). Of course, unlike what is shown in the drawing, the first connector (10) can also act as a female connector for the second connector (30), and the second connector (20) can also act as a male connector for the first connector (10).

The first connector (10) may include a housing (100) and a terminal (300). Of course, the first connector (10) may additionally include a retainer (200) or a fixing member (400). In this first connector (10), a terminal (300) connected to a flexible cable (20, 20') may be inserted into and seated in the housing (100). In this inserted state, the retainer (200) may be inserted into and fastened to the housing (100), and optionally, the fixing member (400) may be inserted into and fastened to the housing (100).

The flexible cable (20, 20') is a cable composed of a flexible material. That is, the flexible cable (20, 20') may have a more flexible characteristic than a conventional wire member (CA). At this time, the flexible cable (20, 20') may be an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), but is not limited thereto.

In particular, the flexible cable (20') may have a thinner thickness than the flexible cable (20). That is, the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') may have a thinner thickness than the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20). Accordingly, the flexible cable (20) may be connected to the terminal (300) on an interlock basis without an auxiliary fastening plate (40), and the flexible cable (20') may be connected on an interlock basis by additionally using an auxiliary fastening plate (40) in addition to the terminal (300). However, the interlock-based connection will be described later.

Referring to FIG. 5, the flexible cable (20, 20') may each include an internal wiring pattern (23) through which a signal is transmitted, and an insulating skin layer (24) which is a covering portion that surrounds the wiring pattern (23). At this time, the flexible cable (20, 20') may have first and second connection terminals (21, 22) at one end and the other end, respectively, and these first and second connection terminals (21, 22) may be electrically connected to the wiring pattern (23) of the flexible cable (20, 20'). Of course, a plurality of wiring patterns (23) may be provided, and accordingly, a plurality of first and second connection terminals (21, 22) may also be provided, respectively.

In the flexible cable (20, 20'), a plurality of first connection terminals (21) may be formed in a finger shape that protrudes from the main body of the flexible cable (20, 20') but is spaced apart from each other. Of course, referring to FIG. 20 and FIG. 23, the flexible cable (20, 20') may further include a finger insulation portion (25), which is an insulated portion of an end, so that the first connection terminal (21) is not exposed among the finger shapes. That is, a plurality of finger insulation portions (25) spaced apart from each other protrude in one direction from the main body of the flexible cable (20, 20'), and the first connection terminal (21) may protrude from each of these finger insulation portions (25) and be exposed to the outside. Of course, the inside of each finger insulation portion (25) includes a wiring pattern (23) electrically connected to each first connection terminal (21), and the finger insulation portion (25) has a function of insulating the surface of the wiring pattern (23) on the side of the first connection terminal (21). That is, the finger insulation portion (25) may correspond to an end portion of the insulating skin layer (24).

In the flexible cable (20, 20'), the first connection terminal (21) is connected to the terminal (300) based on an interlock. In addition, an electronic component may be electrically connected to the second connection terminal (22). For example, the electronic component may be a sensor, but is not limited thereto. At this time, the electronic component may include a plurality of connection terminals. At this time, the first connection terminal of the electronic component may be electrically connected to one of the plurality of second connection terminals (22), and the second connection terminal of the electronic component may be electrically connected to another of the plurality of second connection terminals (22).

In particular, the electronic component may be a component applied to a vehicle. In this case, the electronic component may be a sensor or a battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, if the electronic component is a sensor, the sensor may be a temperature sensor, a power sensor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, an illuminance sensor, a pressure sensor, an image sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a steering angle sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a gravity sensor, a torque sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor, but is not limited thereto. Of course, the second connection terminal (22) may also be connected to another connector or circuit board.

The terminal (300) is a conductive material configuration electrically connected to the flexible cable (20, 20'). Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the terminal (300) includes a connecting portion (330) and may optionally further include a finger (310, 320), a bending portion (340, 350), a terminal catch portion (360), or a terminal penetration portion (370).

A connection portion (330) located on one side of the terminal (300) is interlock-based and connected to the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20, 20'). That is, the connection portion (330) of the terminal (300) is a portion having a length extending from the front to the rear, and corresponds to a portion connected to the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20, 20') according to an interlock-based connection method. This connection portion (330) may be a portion extending from the first and second fingers (310, 320) and the first and second bend portions (340, 350) in the rear direction.

The first finger (310) is configured to be positioned at the upper portion of the front surface of the terminal (300), and the second finger (320) is configured to be positioned at the lower portion of the front surface of the terminal (300). These first and second fingers (310, 320) have a shape spaced apart in the vertical direction.

The first and second fingers (310, 320) can be inserted into the second opening (102) of the housing (100) and exposed through the first opening (101) of the housing (100). Accordingly, when the housing (100) of the first connector (10) is coupled to the second connector (30), the first and second fingers (310, 320) each come into contact with the connecting pin (31) exposed in the opening (32) of the second connector (30). At this time, when the connecting pin (31) of the second connector (30) is inserted between the first and second fingers (310, 320), the lower surface of the first finger (310) comes into contact with the upper surface of the connecting pin (31), and the lower surface of the second finger (320) comes into contact with the upper surface of the connecting pin (31). As a result, the terminal (300) can be electrically connected to a connection terminal of a circuit board connected to a connection pin (31) of the second connector (30).

In particular, the first and second fingers (310, 320) may be formed to have elasticity. At this time, the first and second fingers (310, 320) may have elasticity that attempts to narrow the distance between them when the distance between them increases due to an external force. That is, the first finger (310) may have a first elasticity that attempts to return downward when the first finger (310) is moved upward by an external force. In addition, the second finger (320) may have a second elasticity that attempts to return upward when the second finger (320) is moved downward by an external force.

If the connecting pin (31) of the second connector (30) is inserted between the first and second fingers (310, 320), the thickness of the connecting pin (31) in the vertical direction is greater than the distance between the first and second fingers (310, 320), so that the distance between the first and second fingers (310, 320) increases. Accordingly, the first or second elastic force described above is generated by at least one of the first and second fingers (310, 320), thereby increasing the contact force of the first and second fingers (310, 320) against the inserted connecting pin (31).

In order to reinforce the first and second elastic forces described above, the terminal (300) may further include first and second bending portions (340, 350). That is, the first bending portion (340) is provided at a portion extending from the first finger (310) toward the rear, and bends the first finger (310) downward. Due to the bending shape of the first bending portion (340), the first finger (310) may have a greater first elastic force. In addition, the second bending portion (350) is provided at a portion extending from the second finger (320) toward the rear, and bends the second finger (320) upward. Due to the bending shape of the second bending portion (350), the second finger (320) may have a greater second elastic force.

Meanwhile, in the process of inserting the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30) between the first and second fingers (310, 320), the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30) may come into contact with the first end (311) of the first finger (310) or the second end (321) of the second finger (320). In this case, since the first and second ends (311, 321) may have a sharp shape, scratches may be generated on the connection pin (31). Accordingly, in order to prevent such scratches, the first and second ends (311, 321) may be bent upward and downward, respectively.

That is, the first finger (310) may include a third bending portion (312) for bending the first end (311) in an upward direction, and the second finger (320) may include a fourth bending portion (322) for bending the second end (321) in a downward direction.

As the first and second ends (311, 321) have a shape in which they are each bent upward and downward, in the process of inserting the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30) between the first and second fingers (310, 320), the connection pin (31) may not come into contact with the sharp first and second ends (311, 321), and instead may come into contact with the middle portion of the non-sharp first and second fingers (310, 320), thereby preventing scratches from occurring due to the first and second ends (311, 321).

For example, the third and fourth bends (312, 222) or the surroundings thereof may act as contact portions for the connecting pin (31) of the second connector (30) inserted between the first and second fingers (310, 320). That is, the third bend (312) may be provided between the first end (311) and the first bend (340). Accordingly, the inner surface (i.e., the lower surface) of the third bend (312) has a shape that protrudes downward, so that the inner surface or the surroundings thereof may contact the upper surface of the connecting pin (31) inserted between the first and second fingers (310, 320). Similarly, the fourth bend (332) may be provided between the second end (321) and the second bend (350). Accordingly, the inner surface (i.e., the upper surface) of the fourth bend (322) has a shape that protrudes upward, so that the inner surface or its surrounding area can contact the lower surface of the connecting pin (31) inserted between the first and second fingers (310, 320).

In particular, in order to implement the width of the terminal (300) with a narrow pitch, it may be preferable that each of the first and second fingers (310, 320) be provided with one, but implemented so that at least a portion of them overlap each other when viewed from the upper or lower direction.

The terminal catch portion (360) is configured to extend from the second finger (220) and the second bend portion (350) toward the rear and protrude downward. At this time, it may be preferable that the terminal catch portion (360) be formed to protrude further downward than the lower portion of the connecting portion (330). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 18, when the terminal (300) is installed in the housing (100), the terminal catch portion (360) can act as a catch in the inner groove (109) of the housing (100).

The first bend portion (340) may be provided with a terminal penetration portion (370) formed to penetrate the upper surface and the lower surface. By means of this terminal penetration portion (370), the first bend portion (340) may be provided on each side of the terminal (20). In this case, the second bend portion (350) may be provided at a lower position corresponding to the terminal penetration portion (370).

The terminal penetration portion (370) may have a function of appropriately adjusting the first elastic force formed by the first bend portions (340) on both sides. That is, as the length of the terminal penetration portion (370) in both directions increases, the thickness of each of the first bend portions (340) on both sides decreases, so that the first elastic force of each of the first bend portions (340) on both sides may decrease. Conversely, as the length of the terminal penetration portion (370) in both directions decreases, the thickness of each of the first bend portions (340) on both sides increases, so that the first elastic force of each of the first bend portions (340) on both sides may increase.

Of course, unlike what is shown in the drawing, only one first bend (340) may be provided on one side. Of course, even in this case, the first and second fingers (310, 320) may be provided in an area that overlaps each other when viewed from above and below. This overlapping area does not mean that the first and second fingers (310, 320) come into contact. That is, it means that the overlapping area occurs when viewed from above or below, and the first and second fingers (310, 320) still have a form that is spaced apart in the upper and lower direction.

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 20 to 22, the interlock-based connection is a method of fixing the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20) and the connection portion (330) of the terminal (300) by pressing the upper and lower surfaces of a part of the contact structure of the first connection terminal (21) and the connection portion (330) using a projection of a specific shape, etc., to form a recessed portion (331, 212) including an undercut (UC) in the contact structure of the first connection terminal (21) and the connection portion (330).

For example, referring to Fig. 22, the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20) is positioned so as to be in contact with the upper portion of the connection portion (330), and the inlet portion (331, 212) and the first and second connection protrusions (332, 211), etc. can be formed through the above-described compression.

That is, in Fig. 22, a first indentation portion (331) having an upwardly indented shape is formed at the lower portion of the connecting portion (330). A first connecting protrusion portion (332) having an upwardly protruding shape is formed at the upper portion of the connecting portion (330) corresponding to this first indentation portion (331). That is, the first connecting protrusion portion (332) is a portion that protrudes upwardly corresponding to the first indentation portion (331) at the lower portion. In particular, an undercut (UC) is formed at the first indentation wall (333), which is a side portion of the first indentation portion (331). At this time, the “undercut (UC)” refers to a portion having a first tapered shape in which the diameter or area, etc., increases from the lower portion to the upper portion. In particular, an undercut (UC) of the first tapered shape may be formed at the upper portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first indentation wall (333). Of course, in this undercut (UC) portion, the side thickness of the first inlet wall (333) can increase from the bottom to the top.

In addition, in Fig. 22, a second recessed portion (212) is formed at the bottom of the first connection terminal (21) to correspond to the first connection protrusion (332) and recessed upward. A second connection protrusion (211) having a shape protruding upward is formed at the top of the first connection terminal (21) corresponding to this second recessed portion (212). That is, the second connection protrusion (211) is a portion that protrudes upward corresponding to the first connection protrusion (332) and the second recessed portion (212) at the bottom. Of course, a third recessed portion (213) having a shape recessed downward may be formed at the center of the second connection protrusion (211). In particular, a second tapered shape corresponding to the undercut (UC) of the first recessed wall (333) is formed at the second recessed wall (214), which is a side of the second recessed portion (212). At this time, the second tapered shape may be a shape whose diameter or area increases from the bottom to the top. In particular, in response to the first tapered undercut (UC) formed on the upper portion of the outer surface of the first recessed wall (333), a second tapered undercut (UC) may be formed on the upper portion of the inner surface of the second recessed wall (214). Of course, in this undercut (UC) portion, the side thickness of the second recessed wall (214) may decrease from the bottom to the top.

That is, in Fig. 22, a first taper-shaped undercut is formed in the first inlet wall (333) of the first inlet portion (331) of the lower-positioned connecting portion (330), and a second taper shape corresponding to the first taper shape is formed in the second inlet wall (214) of the second inlet portion (212) of the upper-positioned first connecting terminal (21). As a result, the lower-positioned connecting portion (330) and the upper-positioned first connecting terminal (21) can be interlocked (i.e., connected according to the undercut) according to the first and second taper shapes, so that the lower-positioned connecting portion (330) can be strongly fixed to the upper-positioned first connecting terminal (21), and the terminal (300) can be connected to the flexible cable (20).

Of course, in order to further increase the bonding strength between the connecting portion (330) and the first connecting terminal (21), multiple parts related to the structure of the interlock-based connection described above may be implemented.

However, the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 22 is generated by performing the above-described crimping in a state where the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20) is positioned at the upper portion of the connection portion (330). Conversely, the interlock-based connection may also be generated by performing the above-described crimping in a state where the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20) is positioned to contact the lower portion of the connection portion (330). In this case, the configuration of the connection portion (330) related to the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 22 may be formed at the first connection terminal (21) located at the lower portion, and the configuration of the first connection terminal (21) related to the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 22 may be formed at the connection portion (330) located at the upper portion.

Accordingly, with respect to the interlock-based connection, one of the first connection terminal (21) and the connection portion (330) may be referred to as a “first configuration” and the other may be referred to as a “second configuration”. In this case, the first configuration may be a configuration positioned lower in the interlock-based connection portion, and the second configuration may be a configuration positioned upper in the interlock-based connection portion.

In summary, the connection according to the interlock based on Fig. 22 may mean that the first and second configurations are arranged in contact with each other from above and below, and that the connection is made by having a structure in which some of the first and second configurations lock each other. The structure of this interlock may be a structure related to the undercut shape described above according to Fig. 22.

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 23 to 25, the terminal (300) may additionally use an auxiliary fastening plate (40) to connect a flexible cable (20') based on an interlock. In this case, the flexible cable (20') may be provided with a through hole (26), which is an opening through which the interlock-based connection is made.

At this time, in a state where the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') is arranged to be in contact between the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connection portion (330), the upper and lower surfaces of a part of the contact structure of the auxiliary fastening plate (40), the first connection terminal (21) and the connection portion (330) are pressed using a projection of a specific shape, etc., so that an indentation (331, 42) including an undercut (UC) is formed around the through hole (26) (e.g., the upper or lower portion of the through hole (26)) in the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connection portion (330), and accordingly, the undercut shape is fixed by being inserted into the through hole (26), thereby fixing the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') between the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connection portion (330).

For example, referring to FIG. 25, in a state where the lower portion of the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') is placed in contact with the upper portion of the connection portion (330) and the upper portion of the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') is placed in contact with the lower portion of the auxiliary fastening plate (40), the indentation portions (331, 42) and the first and second connection protrusions (332, 41), etc. can be formed through the above-described pressing.

That is, in Fig. 25, a first indentation (331) having an upwardly indented shape is formed at the lower portion of the connecting portion (330). A first connecting protrusion (332) having an upwardly protruding shape is formed at the upper portion of the connecting portion (330) corresponding to this first indentation (331). That is, the first connecting protrusion (332) is a portion that protrudes upwardly corresponding to the first indentation (331) at the lower portion. In particular, an undercut (UC) is formed at the first indentation wall (333), which is a side portion of the first indentation (331). In particular, an undercut (UC) having a first tapered shape may be formed at the upper portion of the outer circumference of the first indentation wall (333). Of course, in this undercut (UC) portion, the side thickness of the first indentation wall (333) may increase from the lower portion to the upper portion.

In addition, in Fig. 25, a second recessed portion (42) that is recessed upwardly corresponding to the first connecting protrusion (332) is formed at the lower portion of the auxiliary fastening plate (40). A second connecting protrusion (41) that has a shape that protrudes upwardly is formed at the upper portion of the auxiliary fastening plate (40) corresponding to this second recessed portion (42). That is, the second connecting protrusion (41) is a portion that protrudes upwardly corresponding to the first connecting protrusion (332) and the second recessed portion (42) at the lower portion. Of course, a third recessed portion (43) that has a shape that is recessed downwardly may be formed at the center of the second connecting protrusion (41). In particular, a second tapered shape corresponding to the undercut (UC) of the first recessed wall (333) is formed at the second recessed wall (44), which is a side portion of the second recessed portion (42). At this time, in response to the first tapered undercut formed on the upper portion of the outer surface of the first concave wall (333), a second tapered undercut may be formed on the upper portion of the inner surface of the second concave wall (44). Of course, in this undercut (UC) portion, the side thickness of the second concave wall (44) may become smaller from the lower portion to the upper portion.

That is, in Fig. 22, a first tapered undercut is formed at the lower or upper portion of the through hole (26) in the first inlet wall (333) of the first inlet portion (331), and a second tapered shape corresponding to the first tapered shape is formed at the lower or upper portion of the through hole (26) in the second inlet wall (44) of the second inlet portion (42). As a result, the connection portion (330) located at the lower portion and the auxiliary fastening plate (40) located at the upper portion can be interlocked (i.e., connected according to the undercut) according to the first and second tapered shapes, so that the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') can be strongly fixed between the connection portion (310) at the lower portion and the auxiliary fastening plate (40) at the upper portion, and the terminal (300) can be connected to the flexible cable (20').

Of course, in order to further increase the bonding strength between the auxiliary fastening plate (40), the first connection terminal (21) and the connecting portion (330), the parts related to the structure of the above-described interlock-based connection may be implemented in multiple numbers. In this case, a plurality of through holes (26) are arranged spaced apart from each other in one terminal (300).

However, the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 25 is generated by performing the above-described crimping in a state where the connecting portion (330) is positioned at the bottom, the auxiliary fastening plate (40) is positioned at the top, and the first connecting terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') is positioned between them. Conversely, the interlock-based connection may also be generated by performing the above-described crimping in a state where the auxiliary fastening plate (40) is positioned at the bottom, the connecting portion (330) is positioned at the top, and the first connecting terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') is positioned between them. In this case, the configuration of the connecting portion (330) related to the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 19 may be formed in the auxiliary fastening plate (40) located at the bottom, and the configuration of the auxiliary fastening plate (40) related to the interlock-based connection described above according to FIG. 25 may be formed in the connecting portion (330) located at the top.

Accordingly, with respect to the interlock-based connection, one of the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connecting portion (330) may be referred to as a “first configuration” and the other may be referred to as a “second configuration.” In this case, the first configuration may be a configuration positioned lower in the interlock-based connection portion, and the second configuration may be a configuration positioned upper in the interlock-based connection portion.

In summary, the connection according to the interlock based on Fig. 25 may mean that the first and second configurations are arranged upper and lower, with the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20') arranged between them, and a structure for locking some of the first and second configurations to each other is provided in the through hole (26) of the flexible cable (20'). The structure of this interlock may be a structure related to the undercut shape described above according to Fig. 25, and the structure of the interlock may be a structure that is fixed to the through hole (26).

In particular, in Fig. 25, the first connection terminal (21) may have a thinner thickness than the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connection portion (330). That is, if the first connection terminal (21) is too thin, it may be difficult to implement the interlock-based connection structure according to Fig. 22 with the first connection terminal (21) and the connection portion (330). Accordingly, by arranging the first connection terminal (21) between the auxiliary fastening plate (40) and the connection portion (330) which are thicker than the first connection terminal (21), the connection structure according to the interlock based on Fig. 25 can be implemented.

In particular, when the width of the terminal (300) and the width of the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20, 20') are implemented with a narrow pitch, if a connection method such as the first or second conventional technology is used, the connection portion between the flexible cable (20, 20') and the terminal (300) may become narrow and the fastening force may be weakened. However, as the connection according to the interlock as described above is implemented, a very large fastening force can be provided between the flexible cable (20, 20') and the terminal (300) despite the narrow pitch. This is because the structure related to the undercut shape described above can be sufficiently implemented even with a narrow pitch. In particular, when a plurality of portions related to the structure of the interlock-based connection described above are implemented along the length of the terminal (300), a very strong fastening force can be provided despite the narrow pitch.

Of course, although not shown in the drawing, the terminal (300) may further include a plurality of fixing parts (not shown) protruding upwardly at a portion extending from the connection portion (330) toward the rear. Such a plurality of fixing parts may be provided on each side of the corresponding extension portion, and one or more pairs may be provided.

A plurality of fasteners may be fastened to the flexible cable (20, 20') by being bent and compressed toward the flexible cable (20, 20') by an external pressure. Hereinafter, such fastening may be referred to as an "additional connection." In the case of such an additional connection, at least one of the plurality of fasteners may be bent and compressed in the state of penetration after penetrating the flexible cable (20, 20'). Accordingly, the fastener that has penetrated comes into contact with the finger insulation (25) or the conductive portion within the body of the flexible cable (20, 20') by the penetration.

At this time, since the conductive portion of the flexible cable (20, 20') corresponds to a portion that is electrically connected to the first connection terminal (21), the penetrated fixed portion can be electrically connected to the first connection terminal (21) and the flexible cable (20, 20') by the penetration. This electrical connection can supplement the electrical connection of the terminal (300) to the first connection terminal (21) and the flexible cable (20, 20') according to the interlock-based connection.

Of course, in order to increase the fastening force according to the additional connection, multiple fixing members can all pass through the flexible cable (20, 20'). Also, in order to increase the fastening force of the additional connection, multiple fixing members can be provided at different length positions based on the longitudinal direction of the terminal (300). That is, among the multiple fixing members, one can be provided relatively closer to the front side and the other can be provided relatively closer to the rear side.

Meanwhile, the portion of the flexible cable (20, 20') where the additional connection is performed may be the finger insulation portion (25), the body of the flexible cable (20, 20'), or the first connection terminal (21). Of course, at least one of the plurality of fixed portions may be in contact with the first connection terminal (21) of the flexible cable (20, 20').

For a smoother penetration action on the flexible cable (20, 20'), at least one of the plurality of fixing parts may be formed with a cross-section that becomes smaller as it goes towards the end, so that the end may be formed sharply.

For example, when the finger insulation (25) of the flexible cable (20, 20') is positioned above a plurality of fixing members, and an external force of attraction is applied to the flexible cable (20, 20') and the terminal (300), the plurality of fixing members can penetrate the finger insulation (25) of the flexible cable (20, 20'). Of course, if necessary, the corresponding penetration hole may be provided in advance in the flexible cable (20, 20'). In this penetration state, the terminal (300) can be additionally connected to the flexible cable (20, 20') by deforming the plurality of fixing members by an external force so that they are each bent and compressed toward the flexible cable (20, 20').

In the first connector (10), the housing (100) is configured to function as a case surrounding a terminal (300) that is inserted and installed in the internal space. This first connector (10) can be connected to a circuit board (not shown) or a second connector (30). Of course, the second connector (30) can be a connector connected to a circuit board. At this time, the circuit board can correspond to a circuit board of various electronic devices. That is, the first connector (10) can be used for the purpose of connecting to the circuit boards of various electronic devices and transmitting signals required for the corresponding electronic devices. For example, the circuit board can be a circuit board for processing various signals for various electrical components in a vehicle. In this case, the first connector (10) can correspond to a vehicle connector (i.e., a connector for electrical components of a vehicle).

In particular, the circuit board may be composed of a harder material than the flexible cable (20, 20') and may be a PCB (Printed Circuit Board), etc. That is, when the first connector (10) is connected to the circuit board or the second connector (30), the terminal (300) inserted into the housing (100) may be electrically connected to the connection terminal of the circuit board or the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30).

When the male and female of the first and second connectors (10, 30) are coupled, the front of the housing (100) can be inserted into the opening (32) of the second connector (30). As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the housing (100) may include a first opening (101) opened in the front and a second opening (102) opened in the rear, respectively. At this time, the first and second openings (101, 102) may be connected to each other by passages and may be connected to the internal space of the housing (100). In particular, a plurality of passages according to the first and second openings (101, 102) may be provided along the width direction of the housing (100). Of course, a plurality of passages may be provided along the height direction of the housing (100). The passages according to these first and second openings (101, 102) may correspond to the guide space described later.

In particular, a plurality of passages according to the first and second openings (101, 102) provided along the width direction of the housing (100) form one row, and a plurality of such rows may be provided along the height direction of the housing (100). Of course, in FIGS. 6 to 8, the number of rows is illustrated as three, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

One structure (i.e., the first structure) having the flexible cables (20, 20') and the plurality of terminals (300) connected thereto can be inserted into one row along the plurality of passages. In addition, another structure (i.e., the second structure) having the flexible cables (20, 20') and the plurality of terminals (300) connected thereto can be inserted into another row along the plurality of passages. Of course, in the first and second structures, the fingers (310, 320) of the plurality of terminals (300) are inserted toward the second openings (102) of each row.

The housing (100) may further include a first protrusion (103) formed to protrude on the outer surface. Accordingly, the second connector (30) may further include a connector catch (34) in the shape of a groove or hole in the opening (32) corresponding to the first protrusion (103). That is, when the front part of the housing (100) is inserted into the opening (32) of the second connector (30), the first protrusion (103) may catch on the connector catch (34) of the second connector (30). That is, when the male and female parts of the first and second connectors (10, 30) are coupled, the first protrusion (103) may catch on the connector catch (34).

For example, at least one first protrusion (103) may be provided on the upper part of the housing, and correspondingly, a connector catch (34) may be provided on the upper part of the opening (32) of the second connector (30). Of course, it is not limited thereto, and the first protrusion (103) may be provided on the side or the lower part of the outer surface of the housing (100). In this case, the connector catch (34) may also be provided on the side or the lower part of the opening (32) of the second connector (30). Of course, a plurality of first protrusions (103) may be provided, and accordingly, a plurality of connector catches (34) may also be provided.

The housing (100) may further include a second protrusion (104) formed to protrude from the outer surface. At this time, the second protrusion (104) may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction of the housing (100) (i.e., in the direction from the front to the rear or from the rear to the front). This second protrusion (104) may be inserted into the guide groove (33) of the second connector (30) when the front of the housing (100) is inserted into the opening (32) of the second connector (30). That is, when the male and female parts of the first and second connectors (10, 30) are coupled, the male and female parts can be smoothly coupled by guiding the second protrusion (104) into which the guide groove (33) is inserted.

For example, a second protrusion (104a) may be provided on the upper portion of the housing (100), or a second protrusion (104b) may be provided on the lower portion of the housing (100), and correspondingly, a guide groove (33) may be provided on the upper or lower portion of the opening (32) of the second connector (30). Of course, a plurality of second protrusions (104) may be provided, and accordingly, a plurality of guide grooves (33) may also be provided.

The housing (100) may further include a first insertion groove (105) in a groove shape on one side. This first insertion groove (105) may be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the housing (100). Of course, a plurality of first insertion grooves (105) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the height direction of the housing (i.e., from the bottom to the top). Referring to FIG. 19, a first catch (105a) in a step shape or a recessed groove shape may be provided on the inner surface along this first insertion groove (105). That is, the first catch (105a) may be a step or groove recessed in the lateral direction on the inner surface along the first insertion groove (105). When the retainer (200) described later is fastened to the housing (100), the first hook (207) of the retainer (200) can be caught by the first catch (105a).

The internal space of the housing (100) may be provided with a plurality of guide walls (111) spaced apart from each other in both directions. The guide walls (111) may be walls that divide the internal space of the housing (100). That is, when the guide walls (111) are arranged spaced apart from each other, a hollow space is naturally created due to the spaced apart. Hereinafter, this space may be referred to as a “guide space” or an “internal space.” That is, the guide space may be a space between the guide walls (111). In this guide space, the openings at the front and rear correspond to the first and second openings (101, 102), respectively.

In the housing (100), one terminal (300) can be inserted into each guide space. That is, each terminal (300) can be inserted into the housing (100) while being guided through a plurality of guide spaces formed by the guide walls (111).

Referring to FIG. 26, the housing (100) may include a reverse insertion prevention structure that allows the terminal (300) of the first or second structure to be inserted only when it is in the correct direction (e.g., the first direction) and prevents complete insertion of the terminal (300) of the first or second structure when it is in the wrong direction (e.g., the second direction). This reverse insertion prevention structure may be implemented in the guide wall (111), and may be provided on one side and the other side in the width direction of the housing (100). This reverse insertion prevention structure may be implemented in a form that protrudes more than the surroundings.

That is, when the terminal (300) to which the flexible cable (20, 20') is connected is inserted into the second opening (102) of the housing (100) while being placed in the first direction, the terminal (300) can be easily inserted by being guided through the guide space of the guide walls (111). On the other hand, when the terminal (300) to which the flexible cable (20, 20') is connected is inserted into the second opening (102) of the housing (100) while being placed in the second direction (i.e., in the opposite direction to the first direction), the flexible cable (20, 20') is blocked by the reverse insertion prevention structure of the housing (100), and the terminal (300) is prevented from being inserted beyond a certain amount into the guide space of the guide walls (111). Accordingly, the present invention enables the prevention of reverse insertion for the terminal (300) and the flexible cable (20, 20').

To this end, as illustrated in FIG. 26, only the finger insulation portion (25) on one side of the flexible cable (20, 20') may be provided with a recessed shape, and the finger insulation portion (25) on the other side of the flexible cable (20, 20') may not be provided with a recessed shape. That is, when inserted in the first direction, the recessed finger insulation portion (25) on one side may be inserted without being blocked by the reverse insertion prevention structure protruding from one side of the housing (100). On the other hand, when inserted in the second direction, the finger insulation portion (25) on the other side may be blocked by the reverse insertion prevention structure of the housing (100) and may not be inserted beyond a certain extent.

The housing (100) may further include a second insertion groove (106) in the shape of a groove on the upper portion. This second insertion groove (106) has an opening that is open toward the rear of the housing (100) and may be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the housing (100) from the opening.

The housing (100) may further include a third insertion groove (108) in the shape of a groove in the upper wall (107) located above the second insertion groove (106). The third insertion groove (108) has an opening that is open toward the rear of the housing (100) and may be formed to extend from the opening along the longitudinal direction of the housing (100). In addition, referring to FIG. 17, a second catch (108a) in the shape of a step or a recessed groove may be provided on the inner surface along the third insertion groove (108). That is, the second catch (108a) may be a step or a groove recessed upward from the inner surface along the third insertion groove (107).

The housing (100) may further include an internal groove (109) formed in a groove shape that is inserted into the internal space. These internal grooves (109) may be provided one by one in the guide space of the guide wall (111). That is, the internal groove (109) is configured to act as a catch for the terminal catch portion (360) of the terminal (300) to be described later when the terminal (300) is installed in the housing (100). That is, the internal groove (109) is connected to the internal space, and the first and second openings (101, 102) and the passage may be connected to each other.

The housing (100) may further include a third catch (112) formed to protrude from the outer surface. For example, the third catch (112) may have a shape protruding from the lower portion of the housing (100). This third catch (112) is configured to catch the retainer (200) when the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100). At this time, the retainer (200) includes a retainer catch (205) in the shape of a groove or hole formed to correspond to the third catch (112). That is, when the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100), the third catch (112) may be inserted into the retainer catch (205) to cause a catch.

When installing a terminal (300) in a housing (100), a terminal (300) to which a flexible cable (20, 20') is connected is inserted into an internal space of the housing (100) through a second opening (102) of the housing (100). In this inserted state, the retainer (200) covers at least a part of the second opening (102) of the housing (100) and at least a part of the upper surface of the housing (100), and a locking action of the third locking portion (112) and the retainer locking portion (205) occurs, whereby the retainer (200) can be fastened to the housing (100).

Meanwhile, the retainer (200) functions as a cover for the housing (100), and may therefore be referred to differently as a “cover”. Of course, the retainer (200) may provide a fixing force for the terminal (300) inserted into the housing (100), while also providing a function for maintaining various insertion forms for the flexible cable (20, 20') inserted into the housing (100).

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the retainer (200) may include a first cover portion (201) extending in the left-right direction at the rear end, a plurality of first insert portions (202) protruding and extending in the front end direction from the first cover portion (201) and spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, and a second cover portion (203) protruding and extending in the front end direction from the first cover portion (201) but spaced downward from the plurality of first insert portions (202). At this time, the second cover portion (203) and the first insert portion (202) may be spaced apart from each other. In addition, the second cover portion (203) may be provided with the above-described retainer catch portion (205).

The retainer (200) may further include a plurality of second insert portions (206) that protrude and extend from one side of the first cover portion (201) toward the front and are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The second insert portions (206) may be formed to be longer than the first insert portion (201). The second insert portion (206) may be provided with a first hook (207) having a protruding shape. For example, the first hook (207) may be formed to protrude toward the other side around the end of the second insert portion (206).

When the terminal (300) is inserted into the guide space of the guide wall (111) through the second opening (102) of the housing (100), the flexible cable (20, 20') connected to the terminal (300) is also inserted into the second opening (102) of the housing (100). At this time, referring to FIG. 18, when the retainer (200) is fastened to the rear surface of the housing (100), the first insertion portion (202) is inserted into the guide space of the guide wall (111) and contacts the terminal (300) that has already been inserted, thereby fixing the terminal (300) so that it does not move. At the same time, the first cover portion (201) can block external substances such as rainwater from flowing into the second opening (102) by covering at least a portion of the second opening (102) of the housing (100). In addition, when the retainer catch portion (205) provided in the second cover portion (203) catches the third catch portion (112) of the housing (100) (hereinafter referred to as the “first catch action”), the fastening force of the retainer (200) to the housing (100) can be maintained. In addition, referring to FIG. 18, when the second insertion portion (206) is inserted into the first insertion groove (105) and the first hook (207) catches the first catch portion (105a) (hereinafter referred to as the “second catch action”), the fastening force of the retainer (200) to the housing (100) can be reinforced.

The retainer (200) may be formed with a vertical length such that the first cover part (201) does not completely cover the second opening (102) of the housing (100) when fastened to the housing (100). Accordingly, when the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100), the first cover part (201) covers only a portion of the second opening (102) of the housing (100), and an exposed space may be generated in which a portion of the second opening (102) is exposed to the outside from the rearward direction of the retainer (200). At this time, the flexible cable (20, 20') passes through the exposed space, and a part of the flexible cable (20, 20') can be supported by contacting a part of the housing (100) and the return liner (20) corresponding to the periphery of the exposed space (i.e., the wall surrounding the exposed space).

For example, the first cover part (201) may be provided with an insertion hole (204) that is a hole shape penetrating in the front and rear directions. This insertion hole (204) may have a shape extending in the left and right directions. Accordingly, when the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100), a part of the second opening (102) of the housing (100) may be exposed to the outside through the insertion hole (204). That is, the insertion hole (204) functions as an exposed space, and accordingly, when the flexible cable (20, 20') passes through the insertion hole (204), a part of the flexible cable (20, 20') may contact the wall (inner surface) along the insertion hole (204), thereby supporting the flexible cable (20, 20'). Of course, multiple insertion holes (204) in the retainer (200) can be spaced apart in the vertical direction. Accordingly, multiple flexible cables (20, 20') can be supported while passing through each insertion hole (204) one by one.

Meanwhile, the fixing member (400) provides a function for fixing the coupling between the second connector (30) and the housing (100) when the male and female are coupled. Referring to FIG. 15, the fixing member (400) may include a first fixing insertion member (401) that protrudes and extends toward the front, a second fixing insertion member (402) that is spaced upward from the first fixing insertion member (401) and protrudes and extends toward the front, and a second hook (403) having a protruding shape may be provided on the second fixing insertion member (402). For example, the second hook (403) may be formed to protrude upward around an end of the second fixing insertion member (402).

At this time, the first fixed insertion part (401) may be provided corresponding to the second insertion groove (106) of the housing (100), and the second fixed insertion part (402) may be provided corresponding to the third insertion groove (107) of the housing (100). In addition, a plurality of second fixed insertion parts (402) may be provided, and in this case, each of the second fixed insertion parts (402) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. Of course, the second fixed insertion part (402) may be provided to have a shorter length extending in the front direction than the first fixed insertion part (401).

Referring to FIG. 17, in a male-female coupling state between the second connector (30) and the housing (100), the fixing member (400) can be inserted into and fastened to the housing (100). At this time, the first fixing insertion part (401) of the fixing member (400) can be inserted into the second insertion groove (106) of the housing (100), and the second fixing insertion part (402) of the fixing member (400) can be inserted into the third insertion groove (108) of the housing (100). Accordingly, the second hook (403) engages the second engaging part (108a) of the housing (100) (hereinafter, referred to as a “third engaging action”). This third engaging action can maintain the engaging action between the first protrusion (103) and the connector engaging part (34) generated by the male-female coupling of the first and second connectors (10, 30).

That is, the fastening of the fixed part (400) inserted into the housing (100) can be maintained according to the third fastening action, and accordingly, the fastening force of the housing (100) to the second connector (30) can be maintained while the fastening action between the first protrusion (103) and the connector fastening part (34) is maintained. Of course, the above-described male-female coupling state may include a state in which the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100) after the flexible cable (20, 20') to which the terminal (300) is connected is inserted into the housing (100).

Next, the installation and uninstallation process of the first and second connectors (10, 30) will be described.

First, after the terminal (300) is connected to the flexible cable (20, 20') based on an interlock, the terminal (300) connected to the flexible cable (20, 20') is installed in the housing (100). At this time, the first and second ends (311, 321) of the first and second fingers (310, 320) are inserted toward the second opening (102) of the housing (100). That is, the terminal (300) is inserted into the guide space while being guided by the guide wall (111) of the housing (100), and the terminal (300) is supported while making contact with the inner surface of the guide space. Accordingly, the first and second ends (311, 321) of the first and second fingers (310, 320) are exposed to the first opening (101) of the housing (100). At this time, when the terminal catch (360) catches the inner groove (109) of the housing (100), the terminal (300) can be initially fixed within the housing (100).

In this state, as shown in Fig. 16(a), the second connector (30) and the housing (100) are male-female coupled. In this male-female coupled state, as shown in Fig. 16(b), the retainer (200) is fastened to the housing (100). At this time, the first insertion portion (202) of the retainer (200) is inserted into the guide space of the guide wall (111) and comes into contact (close contact) with the terminal (300), thereby providing a fixing force for the terminal (300), and thus the terminal (300) can be secondarily fixed within the housing (100). At the same time, the first and second engaging actions described above occur. In this state, as shown in Fig. 16(c), the fixing portion (400) is fastened to the housing (100). Accordingly, the third engaging action described above occurs.

That is, a structure can be implemented to increase the fixing force for the terminal (300) within the housing (100) according to the first and second fixing methods described above, a structure can be implemented to increase the fastening force between the housing (100) and the retainer (200) according to the first and second engaging actions described above, and a structure can be implemented to increase the male-female coupling force between the housing (100) and the second connector (30) according to the third engaging action described above. In particular, since the third engaging action described above occurs in a state where the first and second fixing insertion portions (401, 402) are implemented in a structure spaced apart from each other vertically, the male-female coupling force between the first and second connectors (10, 30) can be further increased. Accordingly, unintended detachment of the terminal (300) from the housing (100) can be prevented in advance, and unintended detachment of the housing (100) from the second connector (30) can be prevented in advance.

Meanwhile, the fixing member (400) inserted into the housing (100) is separated from the housing (100), the housing (100) coupled with the second connector (30) in a male-female manner is separated from the second connector (30), and the retainer (200) is separated from the housing (100). Thereafter, by pushing the terminal engaging member (360) that engages the internal groove (109) of the housing (100) with respect to the terminal (300) and the flexible cable (20, 20') installed in the housing (100), the terminal (300) can be separated from the housing (100). Accordingly, the terminal (300) can be easily installed in the connector (10, 10') and firmly fixed to the installed connector (10, 10'), and the terminal (300) can be easily separated from the connector (10, 10') when necessary, which can be advantageous for installation and maintenance.

Meanwhile, the circuit board or second connector (30) to which the first connector (30) is connected may correspond to a circuit board or connector of various electronic devices. That is, the first connector (10) may be used for the purpose of connecting to the circuit board or second connector (30) of various electronic devices and transmitting signals required for the corresponding electronic devices. For example, the first connector (10) may be connected to a circuit board or second connector (30) that processes various sensor signals in various electrical components in a vehicle.

Next, the signal transmission process related to the first connector (10) may be as follows.

That is, the first signal can be sequentially transmitted to the second connection terminal (22), the wiring pattern (23) of the flexible cable (20, 20'), and the first connection terminal (21), and then transmitted to the interlock-based connected terminal (300) at the first connection terminal (21). Thereafter, the first signal can be transmitted to a circuit board or the like through the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30) connected to the terminal (300).

Conversely, a second signal can be transmitted to the terminal (300) through the connection pin (31) of the second connector (30). Thereafter, the second signal can be sequentially transmitted to the wiring pattern (23) of the flexible cable (20, 20') and the second connection terminal (22).

The present invention, configured as described above, has the advantage of being able to easily and quickly perform a connection to a flexible cable (20, 20') such as an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) without the need for a soldering process or an ultrasonic fusion process. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the first problem described above.

In addition, the present invention can improve the durability of the connection structure by performing an interlock-based connection through a terminal (300) to increase the fastening force for the flexible cable (20, 20'), so that the connection structure can be maintained even in an environment such as vibration. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the second problem described above.

In addition, the present invention has an advantage in that it can be easily applied to narrow spaces without space constraints because the connection structure for the flexible cable (20, 20') through the terminal (300) is very simple and takes up a small volume. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the third problem described above.

In addition, the present invention can be applied not only to an environment where vibration occurs due to improved durability of the connection structure for a flexible cable (20, 20') through a terminal (300) as described above, but can also be easily applied to a narrow space environment as described above, so there is an advantage in that it can be optimally applied to vehicle electrical components that are exposed to all of these environments.

In addition, since the present invention has a structure capable of increasing the male-female coupling force between the first and second connectors (10, 30), there is an advantage in that the male-female coupling can be firmly maintained even when used for a long period of time in an environment with severe shaking, such as a vehicle. Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the fourth problem described above.

In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to connect a plurality of flexible cables respectively through one first connector (10). Accordingly, the present invention can easily solve the fifth problem described above.

Although the detailed description of the present invention has described specific embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but should be determined by the claims and equivalents of the claims.

10: 1st connector 20, 20': Flexible cable
30: Second connector 40: Auxiliary fastening plate
100: Housing 200: Retainer
300: Terminal

Claims (20)

A connector for connecting multiple flexible cables, each of which is an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), and for combining with other connectors of a circuit board, electrical components, or electronic devices.
A plurality of terminals electrically connected to a plurality of flexible cables, respectively, by connecting a connecting portion connected to a first connecting terminal of a flexible cable, wherein one of the first connecting terminal and the connecting portion, a first configuration, is located at the bottom and the other, a second configuration, is located at the top, and parts of the first and second configurations are connected based on an interlock basis, so that the connecting portion is connected to the first connecting terminal; and
A housing in which the plurality of terminals are each inserted into each opening of the plurality of guide spaces formed by the plurality of guide walls, and which is male and female coupled with the other connector; and
A retainer having a first cover portion extending in the left and right directions at the rear portion, and fastened to the housing by engaging with the housing while covering at least a portion of each opening while each of the plurality of terminals is inserted into the housing;
Connector including.
A connector for connecting multiple flexible cables, each of which is an FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), and for combining with other connectors of a circuit board, electrical components, or electronic devices.
A plurality of terminals electrically connected to a plurality of flexible cables, each having a connecting portion connected to a first connecting terminal of a flexible cable, and a through hole provided in the connecting portion, wherein one of the auxiliary fastening plate and the connecting portion, the first configuration, is located at the bottom, and the other, the second configuration, is located at the top, and the first connecting terminal is located between the first and second configurations, and a part of the first and second configurations is connected at the top or bottom of the through hole according to an interlock basis, so that the connecting portion is connected to the first connecting terminal; and
A housing in which the plurality of terminals are each inserted into each opening of the plurality of guide spaces formed by the plurality of guide walls, and which is male and female coupled with the other connector; and
A retainer having a first cover portion extending in the left and right directions at the rear portion, and fastened to the housing by engaging with the housing while covering at least a portion of each opening while each of the plurality of terminals is inserted into the housing;
Connector including.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
A connector wherein the retainer further includes a plurality of first insertion portions extending in the front direction from the first cover portion so as to be inserted into the plurality of guide spaces when fastened to the housing and contact the plurality of terminals, respectively, to secure the plurality of terminals, respectively.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
A connector wherein the retainer further includes a second cover portion extending in a front direction from the first cover portion, and a retainer engaging portion in the shape of a groove or hole provided in the second cover portion so as to have a primary engaging effect on the housing when fastened to the housing.
In paragraph 4,
A connector wherein the retainer further includes a second insert portion extending in a front direction from the first cover portion, and a first hook protruding from the second insert portion to perform a secondary engaging action on the housing when fastened to the housing.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
A connector wherein the housing further includes a first protrusion that engages a connector engaging portion having a hole or groove shape when mated with the other connector.
In Article 6,
A connector further comprising a fixing member that is fastened to the rear surface of the housing and fixes a male-female connection between the housing and the other connector.
In Article 7,
A connector in which the above fixing member, when connected to the housing, engages with the housing to maintain the engaging action between the first protrusion and the connector engaging member, thereby fixing the male-female combination.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
Each of the above multiple terminals further includes a first finger and a second finger spaced apart from each other on the front side,
A connector in which, when the housing is mated to the other connector, the connecting pin exposed to the other connector is inserted between the first and second fingers and makes contact with the first and second fingers.
In Article 9,
A connector in which the first and second fingers have an elastic force that attempts to narrow the distance between them when the distance between them increases, and in which a contact force is generated for the inserted connecting pin according to the elastic force.
In Article 9,
A connector wherein each of the plurality of terminals further includes a first bending portion for bending the first finger at the top in a downward direction, and a second bending portion for bending the second finger at the bottom in an upward direction.
In Article 9,
Each of the above multiple terminals further includes a third bending portion for bending a first end, which is an end of the first finger, upwardly, and a fourth bending portion for bending a second end, which is an end of the second finger, downwardly,
The above connecting pin is a connector which does not contact the first and second ends during the insertion process.
In Article 12,
A connector in which the third and fourth bends serve as contact points for the connecting pins to be inserted.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
The above retainer further includes a plurality of insertion holes provided in the first cover portion so as to expose a portion of each of the openings when fastened to the housing, and the connector in which the plurality of flexible cables pass through the plurality of insertion holes one by one and contact the inner surface of the insertion holes.
delete In paragraph 1 or 2,
A connector having a structure based on the above interlock, which includes an undercut shape in a state where some of the first and second configurations are inserted.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
The above first configuration includes a first inlet portion that is introduced in an upward direction, and a first inlet wall that is a side portion of the first inlet portion,
The above second configuration includes a second inlet portion that is indented upward corresponding to the first inlet portion, and a second inlet wall that is a side of the second inlet portion,
A connector wherein parts of said first and second configurations are connected according to said interlock basis, wherein at least one of said first and second insertion walls includes an undercut shape.
In Article 17,
The outer surface of the first inlet wall includes the undercut shape according to a taper in which the diameter increases from the bottom to the top.
A connector in which the inner surface of the second recessed wall includes an undercut according to a taper whose diameter increases from the bottom to the top in correspondence with the outer surface of the first recessed wall.
In Article 18,
A connector in which, in the above undercut shape portion, the side thickness of the first recessed wall increases from the bottom to the top, and the side thickness of the second recessed wall decreases from the bottom to the top.
In paragraph 1 or 2,
Connectors applied for vehicles.

Images