Connector, and header and socket which are used in connector

[0001] This application is a U.S. national stage application of the PCT international application No. PCT/JP2015/003896 filed on Aug. 3, 2015, which claims the benefit of foreign priority of Japanese patent application No. 2014-161129 filed on Aug. 7, 2014, the contents all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a connector, and a header and a socket which are used in the connector.

[0003] A conventional connector including a socket having a socket main body and socket-side terminals disposed in the socket main body and a header including a header main body and header-side terminals disposed in the header main body is known (for example, refer to PTL 1).

[0004] In PTL 1, the socket is engaged with the header to cause corresponding terminals to electrically contact each other, thereby electrically connect circuit patterns of a circuit board to each terminal.

[0005] A connector in which groups each including a socket-side terminal and a header-side terminal electrically connected to the socket-side terminal is known.

[0006] The groups of the terminals are generally used as signal terminals to which a signal line is connected. But a part of the groups of the terminals may be used as a power source terminal to which a power source line is connected.

[0007] PTL 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2005-019144

[0008] A connector according to the present disclosure includes a socket including a substantially rectangular socket housing in which a socket-side signal terminal and a socket-side power source terminal are disposed, and a header including a substantially rectangular header housing in which a header-side signal terminal and a header-side power source terminal are disposed. While the socket housing is engaged with the header housing, the socket-side signal terminal contacts the header-side signal terminal, and the socket-side power source terminal contacts the header-side power source terminal. A socket-side holder bracket is disposed in the socket housing. The socket-side holder bracket includes a mounting terminal configured to be soldered to a circuit pattern formed on a circuit board. The socket-side power source terminal includes a base part configured to be soldered to the circuit pattern formed on the circuit board. The mounting terminal and the base part are soldered to a common circuit pattern.

[0009] A connector which can further improve heat dissipation, and a header and a socket which are used in the connector are obtained.

[0010] Another connector according to the present disclosure includes a socket including a substantially rectangular socket housing in which a socket-side signal terminal and a socket-side power source terminal are disposed, and a header including a substantially rectangular header housing in which a header-side signal terminal and a header-side power source terminal are disposed. While the socket housing is engaged with the header housing, the socket-side signal terminal contacts the header-side signal terminal, and the socket-side power source terminal contacts the header-side power source terminal. A header-side holder bracket is disposed in the header housing. The header-side holder bracket includes a mounting terminal configured to be soldered to a circuit pattern formed on a circuit board. The header-side power source terminal includes a base part configured to be soldered to the circuit pattern formed on the circuit board. The mounting terminal and the base part are soldered to a common circuit pattern.

[0011] Still another connector according to the present disclosure includes a socket including a substantially rectangular socket housing in which a socket-side signal terminal and a socket-side power source terminal are disposed, and a header including a substantially rectangular header housing in which a header-side signal terminal and a header-side power source terminal are disposed. While the socket housing is engaged with the header housing, the socket-side signal terminal contacts the header-side signal terminal, and the socket-side power source terminal contacts the header-side power source terminal. A header-side holder bracket is disposed in the header housing. The header-side holder bracket includes a mounting terminal configured to be soldered to a circuit pattern formed on a circuit board. The header-side power source terminal includes a base part configured to be soldered to the circuit pattern formed on the circuit board. The mounting terminal and the base part are soldered to the common circuit pattern.

[0012] The connectors according to the present disclosure, and the header and the socket which are used in the connector can further improve heat dissipation.

[0073] In the above conventional connector, since a current supplied from the power source line is larger than a current supplied from the signal line, when using a part of the group of the terminals as a power source terminal, a quantity of heat generated becomes large. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the heat from being accumulated in the connector by dissipating the generated heat. At this moment, a more amount of heat is preferably dissipated.

[0074] An embodiment of the present invention will be detailed with reference to drawings below. Hereinafter, the longitudinal direction of the connector (a header-side housing and a socket-side housing) is an X direction, the width direction (lateral direction) of the connector (the header-side housing and the socket-side housing) is a Y direction, and the upward-and-downward direction of the connector in FIGS. 29 to 32 is a Z direction in the description. The socket and the header will be described while considering an upper side as an upper side (front surface side) in the upward-and-downward direction, and a lower side as a lower side (rear surface side) in the upward-and-downward direction in a state illustrated in FIGS. 29 to 32.

[0075] First, connector 10 according to the embodiment will be briefly described with reference to FIGS. 29 to 32.

[0076] Connector 10 according to the embodiment includes header 20 and socket 30 engaged with header 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 29 to 32. In accordance with the embodiment, header 20 includes header housing 21 in which header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 are disposed. Meanwhile, socket 30 has socket housing 31 in which socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are disposed.

[0077] Header housing 21 is engaged with socket housing 31 as to cause header-side signal terminal 22 to contact socket-side signal terminal 32, and as to cause header-side power source terminal 23 to contact socket-side power source terminal 33.

[0078] Socket 30 is mounted onto second circuit board 40. Header 20 is mounted onto first circuit board 60.

[0079] Therefore, when header 20 is engaged with socket 30, second circuit board 40 on which header 20 is mounted is electrically connected to first circuit board 60 on which socket 30 is mounted.

[0080] Specifically, header 20 according to the embodiment is mounted on second circuit board 40 as to electrically connect header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 to circuit pattern 41 on second circuit board 40. As second circuit board 40, a printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be used.

[0081] Socket 30 according to the embodiment is mounted on first circuit board 60 as to electrically connect socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 to circuit pattern 61 on first circuit board 60. As first circuit board 60, a printed circuit board or a flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be used.

[0082] Connector 10 according to the embodiment may be used for electrically connecting the circuit boards to each other in an electronic device which serves as a portable terminal, such as a smartphone. However, the connector of the present invention may be used in electrical connection between any components if the connector is used in the electronic device.

[0083] Next, a configuration of header 20 of connector 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14.

[0084] Header 20 includes header housing 21 as described above. In accordance with the embodiment, header housing 21 has an oblong rectangular shape as a whole in a plan view and is made of insulating synthetic resin (refer to FIGS. 1 to 6).

[0085] In header housing 21, header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 which are made of metal are disposed. Header-side signal terminal 22 is a terminal configured to be electrically connected to a signal line, and is used for transmitting a signal. Header-side power source terminal 23 is a terminal which is configured to be electrically connected to a power source line and is used for supplying electric power.

[0086] In accordance with the embodiment, one header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 are arranged along one long side of header housing 21, such that one header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 are separated from each other. One header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 which are disposed at one side of header housing 21 in the width direction (lateral direction) Y of header housing 21 constitute header-side terminal group G1.

[0087] One header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 are arranged along another long side of header housing 21 such that one header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 are separated from each other. One header-side signal terminal 22 and two header-side power source terminals 23 which are disposed at another side of header housing 21 in the width direction Y (a lateral direction) of header housing 21 constitute another header-side terminal group G1.

[0088] In accordance with the embodiment, two rows (plural rows) of header-side terminal groups G1 each including header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 which are arranged in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 are disposed in header housing 21.

[0089] Header-side power source terminals 23 are respectively disposed at both ends of header-side signal terminal 22 in one row of header-side terminal group G1. In other words, header-side power source terminals 23 are disposed at both ends of header housing 21 in longitudinal direction X while header-side signal terminal 22 is disposed between header-side power source terminals 23. In accordance with the embodiment, header-side power source terminal 23 is disposed more outside in the longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 than header-side signal terminal 22.

[0090] In accordance with the embodiment, header-side holder brackets 24 made of metal are disposed at both ends of header housing 21 in longitudinal direction X. Header-side holder bracket 24 is used for increasing the strength of header housing 21 and for fixing mounting terminal 24a provided in header-side holder bracket 24 to second circuit board 40 described above.

[0091] Next, a configuration of header housing 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6.

[0092] Header housing 21 has substantially a box shape opening to a single side (to the lower side of FIG. 5) and includes plate wall 21a and circumferential wall 21b having substantially a rectangular frame shape continuously provided around plate wall 21a. Recess 21c (refer to FIG. 1) is formed in circumferential wall 21b. Tapered part 21d is provided at a lower end on an outer circumferential side of circumferential wall 21b. Tapered part 21d rises (toward plate wall 21a) as shifting outward. Tapered part 21d is provided at each of both ends of longitudinal direction wall 21e of circumferential wall 21b in the longitudinal direction and extends along respective one of lateral direction walls 21f of circumferential wall 21b entirely in width direction Y. In other words, Tapered parts 21d having substantially a U-shape are formed at both ends of header housing 21 in longitudinal direction X in a plan view (rear view) at lateral direction wall 21f and longitudinal direction wall 21e connected to both ends in the width direction Y of lateral direction wall 21f.

[0093] A portion of circumferential wall 21b between header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 which are adjacent to each other is rounded to have a reversed U-shape.

[0094] The length of lateral direction wall 21f in width direction Y is larger than a distance between two opposing longitudinal direction walls 21e. Header housing 21 has substantially an I-shape in a plan view as a whole.

[0095] Next, a configuration of header-side signal terminal 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7D, 8, 9A, and 9B.

[0096] Header-side signal terminal 22 is manufactured by shaping metal to be conductive. Header-side signal terminal 22 includes base part 22a which protrudes from a side surface of header housing 21. Base part 22a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40 with solder 50. As shown in FIG. 29, an upper surface of base part 22a extends substantially in parallel with an upper surface (an outer surface of plate wall 21a) of header housing 21.

[0097] Header-side signal terminal 22 includes inner part 22b connected to base part 22a. Inner part 22b passes through a joining part between plate wall 21a and longitudinal direction wall 21e of header housing 21 while bending, and extends to a tip end part of longitudinal direction wall 21e along the inner surface of longitudinal direction wall 21e.

[0098] Recess 22c is formed on the inner surface of inner part 22b of header-side signal terminal 22. In accordance with the embodiment, recess 22c has substantially a shape of a truncated rectangular pyramid shape by flat bottom surface 22g, inclined surface 22h connected to both sides of bottom surface 22g in longitudinal direction X, and inclined surface 22i connected to both sides of bottom surface 22g in upward-and-downward direction Z. Arcuate projection 32k of socket-side signal terminal 32 which will be described later is engaged with recess 22c.

[0099] Header-side signal terminal 22 includes tip end part 22d connected to one end of inner part 22b. Tip end part 22d is bent along a shape of the tip end of longitudinal direction wall 21e of header housing 21.

[0100] Header-side signal terminal 22 includes locked part 22e connected to tip end part 22d. In accordance with the embodiment, locked part 22e extends from one end to the other end of header-side signal terminal 22 in the longitudinal direction X of header housing 21. In other words, locked part 22e having a step is formed across the entire width of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0101] As shown in comparison of FIG. 29 with FIG. 30, locked part 22e is inserted more deeply than locking part 32d which serves as a step when header-side signal terminal 22 is engaged with socket-side signal terminal 32. Therefore, locked part 22e contacts locking part 32d when header-side signal terminal 22 is pulled out of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, locked part 22e of header-side signal terminal 22 is locked with locking part 32d of socket-side signal terminal 32. Therefore, header-side signal terminal 22 is prevented from being pulled out of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, header-side signal terminal 22 cannot be pulled out of socket-side signal terminal 32 only by applying an external force smaller than a predetermined value. Meanwhile, header-side signal terminal 22 can be pulled out of socket-side signal terminal 32 when a large external force equal to or larger than the predetermined value is applied. In other words, locked part 22e of header-side signal terminal 22 and locking part 32d of socket-side signal terminal 32 constitute a locking mechanism which can release the locked state by applying an external force equal to or larger than the predetermined value.

[0102] Locked part 22e may be manufactured by pressing a material of header-side signal terminal 22 to change the thickness of header-side signal terminal 22 partially, but the material of header-side signal terminal 22 may be manufactured by molding and bending the material in the thickness direction.

[0103] Header-side signal terminal 22 is connected to tip end part 22d via locked part 22e, and includes outer part 23f which extends along the outer surface of longitudinal direction wall 21e. In accordance with the embodiment, a tip end of outer part 23f of header-side signal terminal 22 is positioned by protrusion wall 21g which protrudes to the outer circumference of longitudinal direction wall 21e (circumferential wall 21b).

[0104] Header-side signal terminal 22 can be formed by molding and bending a metal material having a strip shape having a predetermined thickness.

[0105] In accordance with the embodiment, header-side signal terminal 22 is disposed in header housing 21 by insert molding. In addition, by pressing and engaging header-side signal terminal 22 with header housing 21, header-side signal terminal 22 may be disposed in header housing 21.

[0106] Next, a configuration of header-side power source terminal 23 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10D, 11, 12A, and 12B.

[0107] Header-side power source terminal 23 is manufactured by shaping metal to be conductive. Header-side power source terminal 23 includes base part 23a which protrudes from the side surface of header housing 21. Base part 23a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40 with solder 50. As shown in FIG. 31, the upper surface of base part 23a extends substantially in parallel with the upper surface of header housing 21 (outer surface of plate wall 21a).

[0108] Header-side power source terminal 23 includes inner part 23b connected to base part 23a. Inner part 23b passes through a joining part between plate wall 21a and longitudinal direction wall 21e of header housing 21 while bending, and extends to the tip end part of longitudinal direction wall 21e along the inner surface of longitudinal direction wall 21e.

[0109] Recess 23c is formed in the inner surface of inner part 23b of header-side power source terminal 23. In accordance with the embodiment, recess 23c has substantially a truncated rectangular pyramid shape having flat bottom surface 23g, inclined surface 23h connected to both sides of bottom surface 23g in longitudinal direction X, and inclined surface 23i connected to both sides of bottom surface 23g in upward-and-downward direction Z. Arcuate projection 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33 which will be described later is engaged with recess 23c.

[0110] Header-side power source terminal 23 includes tip end part 23d connected to one end of inner part 23b. Tip end part 23d is bent along a shape of the tip end of longitudinal direction wall 21e of header housing 21.

[0111] Header-side power source terminal 23 includes locked part 23e connected to tip end part 23d. As shown in comparison of FIG. 31 with FIG. 32, locked part 23e is inserted more deeply than locking part 33d which serves as a step when header-side power source terminal 23 is engaged with socket-side power source terminal 33. Therefore, locked part 23e contacts locking part 33d when header-side power source terminal 23 is pulled out of socket-side power source terminal 33. In other words, locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 is locked by locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33. Therefore, header-side power source terminal 23 is prevented from being pulled out of socket-side power source terminal 33. In other words, header-side power source terminal 23 cannot be pulled out of socket-side power source terminal 33 only by applying an external force smaller than a predetermined value. Meanwhile, header-side power source terminal 23 can be pulled out of socket-side power source terminal 33 when a large external force equal to or greater than the predetermined value is applied. In other words, locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 and locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33 constitute a locking mechanism which can release the locked state by applying an external force equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

[0112] Locked part 23e may be manufactured by pressing a material of header-side power source terminal 23 to partially decrease the thickness of header-side power source terminal 23. The material of header-side power source terminal 23 may be manufactured by molding and bending the material in the thickness direction.

[0113] Header-side power source terminal 23 is continuous to tip end part 23d via locked part 23e, and is provided with outer side 23f which extends along the outer front surface of longitudinal direction wall 21e. Furthermore, in accordance with the embodiment, a tip end of outer side 23f of header-side power source terminal 23 is positioned by protrusion wall 21h which protrudes to the outer circumference of longitudinal direction wall 21e (circumferential wall 21b).

[0114] In accordance with the embodiment, the shape of the side section of header-side signal terminal 22 is substantially identical to the shape of the side section of header-side power source terminal 23 (refer to FIGS. 9A to 12A).

[0115] As described above, header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 are arranged in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21. In accordance with the embodiment, the width of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 is larger than the width of header-side signal terminal 22 in longitudinal direction X.

[0116] In other words, in accordance with the embodiment, the width of header-side signal terminal 22 in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 is smaller than that of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X. In accordance with the embodiment, the width of each header-side signal terminal 22 in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 is smaller than that of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X.

[0117] Since the width of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 is thus large, recess 23j formed in the center of base part 23a in longitudinal direction X. Recess 23j can increase the length of a border line contacting the circuit pattern of base part 23a while suppressing the increase in a protrusion amount of base part 23a. In addition, the recess provides the border line with a complicated border line. This configuration, compared to a terminal without recess 23j, increases the fixing strength between base part 23a and circuit pattern 41 with solder 50 when fixing wide header-side power source terminal 23 to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40 with solder 50.

[0118] Two recesses 23c are formed in the inner surface of inner part 23b of header-side power source terminal 23 along the longitudinal direction X. Two arcuate projections 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33 which will be described later are engaged with the recesses.

[0119] Furthermore, in accordance with the embodiment, locked part 23e is formed from one end to the other end of header-side power source terminal 23 in the longitudinal direction X of header housing 21. In other words, locked part 23e having a step is formed across the entire width direction of wide header-side power source terminal 23. This configuration improves a locking force by locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 and locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33. Since the friction of locked part 23e is unlikely to occur due to repetitive insertion and removing of header 20 and socket 30, it is also possible to achieve a long service life of a product.

[0120] Header-side power source terminal 23 can be formed by performing molding and bending a metal material having a strip shape having a predetermined thickness.

[0121] In accordance with the embodiment, header-side power source terminal 23 is disposed in header housing 21 by the insert molding. In addition, by pressing and engaging header-side power source terminal 23 with header housing 21, header-side power source terminal 23 may be disposed in header housing 21.

[0122] Next, a configuration of header-side holder bracket 24 will be described with reference to FIGS. 13A to 13D, and 14.

[0123] Header-side holder bracket 24 is manufactured by shaping metal similarly to header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23.

[0124] Header-side holder bracket 24 includes mounting terminal 24a which protrudes from the side surface of header housing 21. Mounting terminal 24a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40 with solder 50. In addition, the upper surface of mounting terminal 24a extends substantially in parallel with the upper surface of header housing 21 (outer front surface of plate wall 21a).

[0125] Header-side holder bracket 24 includes inner part 24b connected to mounting terminal 24a. Cut out 24c which is open to one side of inner part 24b in the longitudinal direction X is formed in inner part 24b. Cut out 24c formed in inner part 24b can cause header housing 21 to adhere to header-side holder bracket 24 tightly, and increases the strength of header housing 21.

[0126] In accordance with the embodiment, header-side holder bracket 24 is disposed in header housing 21 by insert molding. By pressing and engaging header-side holder bracket 24 with header housing 21, header-side holder bracket 24 may be disposed in header housing 21.

[0127] Next, a configuration of socket 30 of connector 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 28.

[0128] Socket 30 includes socket housing 31 as described above. In accordance with the embodiment, socket housing 31 has a rectangular oblong shape as a whole in a plan view and is made of insulating synthetic resin (refer to FIGS. 15 to 20).

[0129] Socket-side signal terminal 32 made of metal and socket-side power source terminal 33 made of metal are disposed in socket housing 31. Socket-side signal terminal 32 is configured to be electrically connected to a signal line to transmit a signal. Meanwhile, socket-side power source terminal 33 is configured to be electrically connected to a power source line to supply power.

[0130] In accordance with the embodiment, one socket-side signal terminal 32 and two socket-side power source terminals 33 separated from each other are arranged along one long side of socket housing 31. One socket-side signal terminal 32 and two socket-side power source terminals 33 which are disposed at one side of socket housing 31 in width direction X (the lateral direction) of socket housing 31 constitute socket-side terminal group G2.

[0131] One socket-side signal terminal 32 and two socket-side power source terminals 33 separated from each other are arranged along the other long side of socket housing 31. One socket-side signal terminal 32 and two socket-side power source terminals 33 which are disposed at the other side in width direction X (the lateral direction) of socket housing 31 constitute another socket-side terminal group G2.

[0132] In accordance with the embodiment, in socket housing 31, two rows (plural rows) of socket-side terminal groups G2 each including socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 arranged along longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 are disposed.

[0133] In the first row of socket-side terminal group G2, socket-side power source terminals 33 are disposed at both ends of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, socket-side power source terminals 33 are disposed at both ends of socket housing 31 in the longitudinal direction X, and socket-side signal terminal 32 is disposed between socket-side power source terminals 33. In accordance with the embodiment, socket-side power source terminal 33 is disposed more outside in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 than socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0134] Socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are disposed in socket housing 31 to contact header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23, respectively, when header 20 is engaged with socket 30.

[0135] In accordance with the embodiment, socket-side holder brackets 34 made of metal are disposed at both ends in the longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31. Socket-side holder brackets 34 increases the strength of socket housing 31, and is configured to fix mounting terminal 34d provided in socket-side holder brackets 34 to first circuit board 60, as described above.

[0136] Next, a configuration of socket housing 31 will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20.

[0137] Socket housing 31 has substantially a box shape opening to a single side (upper side of FIG. 15) and includes plate wall 31a and circumferential wall 31b having a rectangular frame shape passing through circumferential edges of plate wall 31a. In accordance with the embodiment, island 31c having substantially a rectangular shape apart from circumferential wall 31b by a predetermined interval is provided at the center of plate wall 31a. Engaging groove 31d to be engaged with circumferential wall 21b of header 20 is formed between circumferential wall 31b and island 31c. Island 31c is engaged with recess 21c.

[0138] Since lateral direction wall 21f and longitudinal direction wall 21e are engaged with engaging groove 31d, engaging groove 31d has a width larger partially at both end parts thereof in longitudinal direction Y.

[0139] In accordance with the embodiment, tapered part 31e is provided at an upper end on an inner circumferential side of circumferential wall 31b to be positioned at a lower position (toward plate wall 31a) as shifting toward inside. Tapered parts 31e are formed at both ends of longitudinal direction wall 31h in the longitudinal direction of longitudinal direction wall 31h of circumferential wall 31b and at lateral direction wall 31i of circumferential wall 31b. Tapered part 31e is formed in circumferential wall 31b between socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 which are adjacent to each other. In accordance with the embodiment, tapered part 31e is formed across substantially the entire circumference of circumferential wall 31b.

[0140] In accordance with the embodiment, in socket housing 31, socket-side signal terminal accommodator 31f in which socket-side signal terminal 32 is accommodated is formed to pass through plate wall 31a (refer to FIGS. 18 to 20). In addition, in socket housing 31, socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g in which socket-side power source terminal 33 is accommodated is formed to penetrate plate wall 31a.

[0141] Socket-side signal terminal accommodator 31f includes socket-side signal terminal accommodation recess 31j communicating with engaging groove 31d formed in longitudinal direction wall 31h, and socket-side signal terminal accommodation recess 31m communicating with engaging groove 31d formed in island 31c.

[0142] Socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g includes socket-side power source terminal accommodation recess 31k communicating with engaging groove 31d formed in longitudinal direction wall 31h, and socket-side power source terminal accommodation recess 31n communicating with engaging groove 31d formed in island 31c.

[0143] Socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are pressed and engaged with socket-side signal terminal accommodator 31f and socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g from the rear side of socket housing 31, respectively.

[0144] Next, a configuration of socket-side signal terminal 32 will be described with reference to FIGS. 21A to 21D, 22, 23A, and 23B.

[0145] Socket-side signal terminal 32 is manufactured by shaping metal to be conductive. Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes base part 32a which protrudes from the side surface of socket housing 31. Base part 32a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 61 of first circuit board 60 with solder 70. A lower surface of base part 32a extends along a main surface M of first circuit board 60, and is flush with a bottom surface of socket housing 31 (rear surface of plate wall 31a).

[0146] Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes rising part 32b which rises from base part 32a and extends to be separated from first circuit board 60. Rising part 32b enters socket-side signal terminal accommodation recess 31j being bent from base part 32a, and extends along the inner surface of longitudinal direction wall 31h.

[0147] Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes reversed U-shaped part 32c having one end connected to the upper end of rising part 32b. Reversed U-shaped part 32c has a shape of a letter “U” reversed upside down. Reversed U-shaped part 32c has tip end surface 32n and inclined surface 32p connected to both sides of tip end surface 32n in the longitudinal direction X, and protrudes to have substantially a trapezoidal shape in a lateral sectional view of reversed U-shaped part 32c (refer to FIG. 23B).

[0148] Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes locking part 32d connected to the other end of reversed U-shaped part 32c. In accordance with the embodiment, locking part 32d extends from one end to the other end of socket-side signal terminal 32 in the longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31. In other words, locking part 32d having a step extends across the entire width direction of socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0149] As described above, locking part 32d suppresses movement of locked part 22e when header-side signal terminal 22 is pulled out of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, locking part 32d of socket-side signal terminal 32 can contact locked part 22e of header-side signal terminal 22, and can lock locked part 22e. Locking part 32d and socket-side signal terminal 32 and locked part 22e of header-side signal terminal 22 constitute a locking mechanism which can release the locked state by applying an external force equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

[0150] Locking part 32d may be manufactured by pressing a material of socket-side signal terminal 32 to partially decrease the thickness of the material. Socket-side signal terminal 32 may be manufactured by shaping and bending the material in the thickness direction of socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0151] Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes falling part 32e connected to locking part 32d and extending substantially in parallel with rising part 32b.

[0152] Socket-side signal terminal 32 includes first arcuate part 32f connected to the lower end of falling part 32e.

[0153] As illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, socket-side signal terminal 32 includes opposing part 32z connected to first arcuate part 32f. Opposing part 32z includes flat part 32g which will be described next, first inclination 32h, second arcuate part 32i, second inclination 32j, arcuate projection 32k, and tip end part 32m. Opposing part 32z will be described below.

[0154] Opposing part 32z includes flat part 32g connected to the lower end of arcuate part 32f. As illustrated in FIG. 29, flat part 32g extends along main surface M of first circuit board 60 to be separated from falling part 32e. However, flat part 32g is not necessarily parallel with main surface M. Flat part 32g is provided to increase a spring length of a spring which will be described later.

[0155] As illustrated in FIG. 29, opposing part 32z includes first inclination 32h connected to flat part 32g and extends in a direction inclining with respect to main surface M of first circuit board 60. First inclination 32h extends to be separated from falling part 32e as being separated from first circuit board 60. First inclination 32h is connected to second arcuate part 32i. Second arcuate part 32i is a curve which protrudes to be separated from falling part 32e. Second arcuate part 32i is connected to second inclination 32j which extends in a direction inclining with respect to main surface M of first circuit board 60. Second inclination 32j extends to approach falling part 32e as being separated from first circuit board 60. Therefore, second inclination 32j is positioned above first inclination 32h.

[0156] As illustrated in FIG. 29, opposing part 32z includes arcuate projection 32k having one end connected to the upper end of second inclination 32j. Arcuate projection 32k has tip end surface 32r and inclined surfaces 32s connected to both sides of tip end surface 32r in longitudinal direction X, and protrudes substantially a trapezoidal shape in a lateral sectional view (refer to FIG. 26B).

[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 29, arcuate projection 32k is engaged with recess 22c in header-side signal terminal 22. The other end of arcuate projection 32k is connected to tip end part 32m. Tip end part 32m extends substantially in parallel to second inclination 32j. As shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, opposing part 32z (32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, 32k, 32m) is connected to the lower end of arcuate part 32f, and faces falling part 32e as a whole.

[0158] In accordance with the embodiment, when header 20 is engaged with socket 30, as illustrated in FIG. 30, header-side signal terminal 22 is inserted into between reversed U-shaped part 32c and arcuate projection 32k. At this moment, falling part 32e, arcuate part 32f, flat part 32g, first inclination 32h, arcuate part 32i, second inclination 32j, arcuate projection 32k, and tip end part 32m function as the spring as a whole. The spring (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, 32k, and 32m) elastically deforms when the projection of header-side signal terminal 22 is inserted into the recess formed in socket-side signal terminal 32. Accordingly, the distance between arcuate projection 32k and each of falling part 32e and reversed U-shaped part 32c increases. At this moment, locked part 22e of header-side signal terminal 22 is inserted more deeply than locking part 32d of socket-side signal terminal 32. Accordingly, arcuate projection 32k of socket-side signal terminal 32 is engaged with recess 22c of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0159] While header-side signal terminal 22 is engaged with socket-side signal terminal 32, the spring elastically deforming generates a restoring force. The restoring force causes arcuate projection 32k to press header-side signal terminal 22 to each of falling part 32e and reversed U-shaped part 32c. Accordingly, header-side signal terminal 22 is nipped by socket-side signal terminal 32. At this moment, header-side signal terminal 22 contacts each of reversed U-shaped part 32c, falling part 32e, and arcuate projection 32k of socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0160] Specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 29, 30, 31, 32, 33A, and 33B, tip end part 22d of header-side signal terminal 22 contacts falling part 32e of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, contact point R1 of socket-side signal terminal 32 contacts contact point R1 of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0161] Recess 22c in header-side signal terminal 22 contacts arcuate projection 32k of socket-side signal terminal 32. In other words, contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 contacts contact point R2 of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0162] Header-side signal terminal 22 thus contacts socket-side signal terminal 32 at plural contact points (contact point R1 and contact point R2) which are separated from each other in the width direction Y. This configuration increases reliability of electrical connection between header-side signal terminal 22 and socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0163] In accordance with the embodiment, recess 22c is formed at contact point R2 of header-side signal terminal 22 which is one contact point of contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 and contact point R2 of header-side signal terminal 22 which contact each other. Contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 which is the other contact point of contact points R2 contacts both end parts of recess 22c in the longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0164] Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 33A, when arcuate projection 32k of socket-side signal terminal 32 is engaged with recess 22c, the boundary part between tip end surface 32r of arcuate projection 32k and inclined surface 32s contacts inclined surface 22h. In accordance with the embodiment, contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 contacts contact point R2 of header-side signal terminal 22 two points (contact point C1 and contact point C2).

[0165] The elastic deformation of the spring, except for contact points R1 and R2, may cause a boundary part between flat part 32g and first inclination 32h to contact first circuit board 60 not only at contact points R1 but also at contact point R5.

[0166] Header-side signal terminal 22 thus contacts socket-side signal terminal 32 of accordance with the embodiment at plural contact points separated from each other in the width direction Y. The header-side signal terminal may contact the socket-side signal terminal of the present invention, for example, only at one contact point between the inner surface of the header-side signal terminal and an opposing part of the socket-side signal terminal.

[0167] The spring (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, 32k, 32m) includes the U-shaped part (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, and 32j) and a free end (32k and 32m) which is connected to one end (32j side) of the U-shaped part (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, and 32j). Contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 is provided in arcuate projection 32k of the free end (32k and 32m).

[0168] Socket-side signal terminal 32 thus has the U-shaped part (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, and 32j), and the free end (32k and 32m) having contact point R2 is connected to one end (32j side) of the U-shaped part (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, and 32j).

[0169] Socket-side signal terminal 32 can be formed by shaping and bending a metal material having a strip shape having a predetermined thickness.

[0170] Socket-side signal terminal 32 is mounted onto socket housing 31 by pressing and inserting socket 30 to socket-side signal terminal accommodator 31f from the rear side (the lower side of FIG. 15) of socket housing 31 when assembling socket 30.

[0171] Socket-side signal terminal 32 may be mounted onto socket housing 31 by, e.g. performing the insert molding with respect to socket-side signal terminal 32 in socket housing 31, or the like.

[0172] Next, a configuration of socket-side power source terminal 33 will be described with reference to FIGS. 24A to 24D, 25, 26A, and 26B.

[0173] Socket-side power source terminal 33 is manufactured by shaping metal to be conductive. Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes base part 33a which protrudes from the side surface of socket housing 31. Base part 33a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 61 of first circuit board 60 with solder 70. A lower surface of base part 33a extends along a main surface M of first circuit board 60, and is flush with the bottom surface of socket housing 31 (a rear surface of plate wall 31a).

[0174] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes rising part 33b which rises from base part 33a and extends to be separated from first circuit board 60. Rising part 33b enters into socket-side power source terminal accommodation recess 31k being bent from base part 33a, and extends along the inner surface of longitudinal direction wall 31h.

[0175] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes reversed U-shaped part 33c having one end connected to the upper end of rising part 33b. Reversed U-shaped part 33c has a shape of a letter “U” reversed upside down. Reversed U-shaped part 33c has tip end surface 33r and inclined surface 33s connected to both sides of tip end surface 33r in the longitudinal direction X, and protrudes to have a cross section having substantially a trapezoidal shape in a lateral sectional view (refer to FIG. 26B).

[0176] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes locking part 33d connected to the other end of reversed U-shaped part 33c. As described above, locking part 33d suppresses movement of locked part 23e when header-side power source terminal 32 is pulled out of socket-side power source terminal 33. In other words, locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33 can contacts locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23, and can lock locked part 23e. Locking part 33d, socket-side power source terminal 33, and locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 constitute a locking mechanism which can release the locked state by applying an external force equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

[0177] Locking part 33d may be manufactured by pressing a material of socket-side power source terminal 33 to partially change the thickness of socket-side power source terminal 33, but the material of socket-side power source terminal 33 may be manufactured by performing the molding and bending of the material in the thickness direction.

[0178] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes falling part 33e connected to locking part 33d and extends substantially in parallel with rising part 33b.

[0179] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes first arcuate part 33f connected to the lower end of falling part 33e.

[0180] As illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32, socket-side power source terminal 33 includes opposing part 33z connected to first arcuate part 33f. Opposing part 33z includes flat part 33g which will be described later, first inclination 33h, second arcuate part 33i, second inclination 33j, arcuate projection 33k, and tip end part 33m. Opposing part 33z will be described below.

[0181] Opposing part 33z includes flat part 33g connected to the lower end of arcuate part 33f. As illustrated in FIG. 31, flat part 33g extends along main surface M of first circuit board 60 to be separated from falling part 33e. However, flat part 33g is not necessarily in parallel with main surface M. Flat part 33g increases a spring length of a spring which will be described later.

[0182] As illustrated in FIG. 31, opposing part 33z includes first inclination 33h connected to flat part 33g and extends in a direction inclining with respect to main surface M of first circuit board 60. First inclination 33h extends to be separated from falling part 33e as being separated from first circuit board 60. First inclination 33h is connected to second arcuate part 33i. Second arcuate part 33i has a curve which protrudes to be separated from falling part 33e. Second arcuate part 33i is connected to second inclination 33j which extends in a direction inclining with respect to main surface M of first circuit board 60. Second inclination 33j extends to approach falling part 33e as being separated from first circuit board 60. Therefore, second inclination 33j is positioned above first inclination 33h.

[0183] As illustrated in FIG. 31, opposing part 33z includes arcuate projection 33k having one end connected to the upper end of second inclination 33j. Arcuate projection 33k has tip end surface 33v and inclined surface 33w which is connected to both sides of tip end surface 33v in the longitudinal direction X, and protrudes to have substantially a trapezoidal shape in a lateral sectional view (refer to FIG. 26B).

[0184] As illustrated in FIG. 31, arcuate projection 33k is engaged with recess 23c of header-side power source terminal 23. The other end of arcuate projection 33k is connected to tip end part 33m. Tip end part 33m extends substantially in parallel to second inclination 33j. As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, opposing part 33z (33g, 33h, 33i, 33j, 33k, 33m) is connected to the lower end of arcuate part 33f, and faces falling part 33e as a whole.

[0185] In accordance with the embodiment, when header 20 is engaged with socket 30, as illustrated in FIG. 32, header-side power source terminal 23 is inserted into between reversed U-shaped part 33c and arcuate projection 33k. At this moment, falling part 33e, arcuate part 33f, flat part 33g, first inclination 33h, arcuate part 33i, second inclination 33j, arcuate projection 33k, and tip end part 33m, are integrated with each other and function as the spring. The spring (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j, 33k, 33m) elastically deforms when the projection of header-side power source terminal 23 is inserted into the recess in socket-side power source terminal 33. Accordingly, the distance between arcuate projection 33k and each of falling part 33e and reversed U-shaped part 33c increases. At this moment, locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 is inserted more deeply than locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33. Accordingly, arcuate projection 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33 is engaged with recess 23c of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0186] While header-side power source terminal 23 is engaged with socket-side power source terminal 33, the spring which elastically deforms generates a restoring force. The restoring force causes arcuate projection 33k to press header-side power source terminal 23 to each of falling part 33e and reversed U-shaped part 33c. Accordingly, header-side power source terminal 23 is nipped by socket-side power source terminal 33. At this moment, header-side power source terminal 23 contacts each of reversed U-shaped part 33c, falling part 33e, and arcuate projection 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33.

[0187] As illustrated in FIGS. 31, 32, 33A, and 33B, tip end part 23d of header-side power source terminal 23 contacts falling part 33e of socket-side power source terminal 33. In other words, contact point R3 of socket-side power source terminal 33 contacts contact point R3 of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0188] Recess 23c in header-side power source terminal 23 contacts arcuate projection 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33. In other words, contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 contacts contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0189] Header-side power source terminal 23 thus contacts socket-side power source terminal 33 at plural contact points (contact points R3 and R4) which are separated from each other in the width direction Y. This configuration provides electrical connection between header-side power source terminal 23 and socket-side power source terminal 33 with high reliability.

[0190] In accordance with the embodiment, the shape of the side cross section of socket-side signal terminal 32 is substantially identical to the shape of the side cross section of socket-side power source terminal 33 (refer to FIGS. 23A and 26A).

[0191] As described above, socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are arranged in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31. In accordance with the embodiment, width socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 is larger than the width of socket-side signal terminal 32 in longitudinal direction X.

[0192] In accordance with the embodiment, the width of socket-side signal terminal 32 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 is smaller than the width of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X. In accordance with the embodiment, the width of the entire socket-side signal terminal 32 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 is smaller than the width of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X.

[0193] Since the width of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 is large, recess 33n is formed in the center of base part 33a in the longitudinal direction X. Recess 33n can increase the length of a border line contacting a circuit pattern of base part 33a while suppressing the increase in a protrusion of base part 33a. The shape of the border line can have a complicated shape. This configuration, compared to a case where recess 33n is not formed, increases the fixing strength between base part 33a and circuit pattern 61 with solder 70 when wide socket-side power source terminal 33 is fixed to circuit pattern 61 of first circuit board 60 with solder 70.

[0194] Hole 33p is formed in the center from rising part 33b to reversed U-shaped part 33c in longitudinal direction X. When pressing and inserting socket-side power source terminal 33 into socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g, projection 31p of socket-side power source terminal accommodation recess 31k is inserted into hole 33p, and socket-side power source terminal 33 is supported by socket housing 31.

[0195] In accordance with the embodiment, locking part 33d is formed from one end to the other end of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31. In other words, locking part 33d having a step is formed across the entire width direction of wide socket-side power source terminal 33. This configuration can improve a locking force by locked part 23e of header-side power source terminal 23 and locking part 33d of socket-side power source terminal 33. When repeating insertion and pulling out of header 20 and socket 30, since the friction of locking part 33d is unlikely to occur, it is also possible to achieve a long service life of a product.

[0196] In accordance with the embodiment, the spring (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j, 33k, 33m) includes the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, and 33j) and a free end (33k, 33m) which is connected to one end (33j side) of the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j). Contact point R4 of socket-side signal source terminal 32 is provided at arcuate projection 33k of the free end (33k, 33m).

[0197] Socket-side power source terminal 33 thus includes the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j), and the free end (33k, 33m) including contact point R4 is connected to one end (33j side) of the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j).

[0198] Plural tongues 35 and 36 are formed at least at the free end (33k, 33m).

[0199] In accordance with the embodiment, two (plural) tongues 35 and 36 are provided at a part of the spring (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j, 33k, 33m) by groove 33t having a belt shape.

[0200] Two (plural) tongues 35 and 36 have flexibility, and can be bent independently of each other.

[0201] Contact point R4 is provided at each of two tongues 35 and 36.

[0202] In accordance with the embodiment, plural contact points R4 which contact each other are provided at socket-side power source terminal 33 and header-side power source terminal 23. Specifically, contact points R4 are provided at two locations arranged in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0203] In accordance with the embodiment, bottom part 33u of groove 33t is positioned at the middle of falling part 33e. In other words, bottom part 33u of groove 33t is closer to the free end (33k and 33m) than to locking part 33d.

[0204] This configuration allows the free end (33k and 33m) to have spring characteristics without reduction of a locking force by locking part 33d.

[0205] Partition wall 31r is formed in socket-side power source terminal accommodation recess 31n. When pressing and inserting socket-side power source terminal 33 into socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g, partition wall 31r is inserted into groove 33t, and suppresses interference of two (plural) tongues 35 and 36.

[0206] In accordance with the embodiment, recess 23c is formed in contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23 which is one contact point out of contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 and contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23 which contact each other. Contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 which is the other contact point out of contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 and contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23 contact both end parts of recess 23c in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0207] As illustrated in FIG. 33B, when arcuate projection 33k of socket-side power source terminal 33 is engaged with recess 23c, a boundary part between tip end surface 33v of arcuate projection 33k and inclined surface 33w contacts inclined surface 23h. In accordance with the embodiment, contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 thus contacts two points (contact point C1 and contact point C2) at contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0208] In accordance with the embodiment, any one of contact points R4 at two locations which are formed to be separated from each other along the longitudinal direction X contacts two points (contact point C1 and contact point C2).

[0209] The elastic deformation of the spring may cause a boundary part between flat part 33g and first inclination 33h to contact first circuit board 60 not only at contact point R3 and contact point R4 but also at contact point R5.

[0210] Socket-side power source terminal 33 can be formed by performing molding and bending a metal material having a strip shape having a predetermined thickness.

[0211] Socket-side power source terminal 33 is mounted on socket housing 31 by pressing and inserting socket 30 to socket-side power source terminal accommodator 31g from the rear side (the lower side of FIG. 15) of socket housing 31 when assembling socket 30.

[0212] Socket-side power source terminal 33 may be mounted on socket housing 31 by, e.g. insert molding socket-side power source terminal 33 in socket housing 31.

[0213] Next, a configuration of socket-side holder bracket 34 will be described with reference to FIGS. 27A to 27D and 28.

[0214] Socket-side holder bracket 34 can be formed by bending and forming a holder bracket plate formed by press-molding a metal plate having a predetermined thickness, and includes side plate 34a which extends in the width direction Y of connector 10, and bottom plate 34c having a lower side which is curved substantially perpendicularly to side plate 34a toward a center of side plate 34a in longitudinal direction X. Both end parts of bottom plate 34c protrude to the outside from both sides in the width direction Y of connector 10, thereby forming first mounting terminal 34j which serves as mounting terminal 34d.

[0215] At both end parts of side plate 34a in width direction Y, extending part 34b which is made by bending both end parts of side plate 34a in width direction Y substantially perpendicularly toward the center of side plate 34a in longitudinal direction X of connector 10. Second mounting terminal 34k which serves as mounting terminal 34d that extends downward and is fixed to first circuit board 60 by solder 70 is provided in final part 34g in the extending direction of extending part 34b.

[0216] In accordance with the embodiment, four groups each including first mounting terminal 34j and second mounting terminal 34k disposed close to first mounting terminal 34j are provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction X of each of one pair of long sides of connector 10 while being arranged with socket-side terminal group G2.

[0217] In accordance with the embodiment, socket-side holder bracket 34 includes first mounting terminal 34j configured to be fixed onto first circuit board 60, and second mounting terminal 34k which is separate from first mounting terminal 34j and is configured to be fixed onto first circuit board 60. Second mounting terminal 34k extends from extending part 34b of socket-side holder brackets 34.

[0218] At this moment, second mounting terminal 34k is provided at a position away from first mounting terminals 34j by a distance along the outer surface of socket-side holder bracket 34 from first mounting terminal 34j which constitute a group such that the distance becomes maximum.

[0219] In accordance with the embodiment, socket-side holder bracket 34 is mounted (disposed) on socket housing 31 by the insert molding. At this moment, at least a part of socket-side holder brackets 34 is exposed along socket housing 31.

[0220] In other words, at least a part of socket-side holder brackets 34 is exposed from outer surface 31s of socket housing 31.

[0221] In accordance with the embodiment, a part of outer surface 31s of circumferential wall 31b and plate wall 31a and a part of outer wall surface 34e of socket-side holder bracket 34 are substantially flush with each other. In other words, socket-side holder brackets 34 is molded to be integrated with socket housing 31 such that a part of outer wall surface 34e of socket-side holder brackets 34 is exposed and substantially flush with outer surface 31s of circumferential wall 31b.

[0222] Specifically, an upper part of outer surface 34f of side plate 34a is exposed and is flush with side surface 31t which extends to the outmost end in the X direction (longitudinal direction) of socket housing 31 (end surface in the longitudinal direction). In accordance with the embodiment, socket-side holder brackets 34 is exposed along at least one surface out of side surface 31t and bottom surface 31u of socket housing 31.

[0223] Outer surface 34i of bottom plate 34c is exposed and is not flush with bottom surface 31u (outer surface 31s) of socket housing 31, but outer surface 34i of bottom plate 34c may be exposed and be flush with bottom surface 31u (outer surface 31s) of socket housing 31. Outer wall surface 34e of socket-side holder brackets 34 is not necessarily exposed to the outer surface of circumferential wall 31b (outer surface 31s of lateral direction wall 31i). Even if being exposed, outer wall surface 34e of socket-side holder brackets 34 is not necessarily exposed while being flush with the outer surface of circumferential wall 31b (outer surface 31s of lateral direction wall 31i). Outer wall surface 34e (outer surface 34h) of extending part 34b may be exposed from the outer surface of circumferential wall 31b (outer surface 31s of longitudinal direction wall 31h). At this moment, outer wall surface 34e may be exposed while being flush with the outer surface of circumferential wall 31b, or not being flush with the outer surface of circumferential wall 31b.

[0224] As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 32, circumferential wall 21b of header housing 21 is inserted to and engaged with engaging groove 31d of socket housing 31 as to engage header 20 with socket 30.

[0225] When header 20 is engaged with socket 30, for example, tapered part 31e and tapered part 21d which are formed at a long side part on one end side in the Y direction (width direction: lateral direction) can overlap each other, and can be engaged with each other while being shifted to the other end in the Y direction (width direction: lateral direction). This configuration allows tapered part 31e and tapered part 21d to function as guiders for easily engaging header 20 with socket 30.

[0226] While header 20 is engaged with socket 30, contact point R1 of socket-side signal terminal 32 contacts contact point R1 of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0227] Contact point R2 of socket-side signal terminal 32 contacts contact point R2 of header-side signal terminal 22.

[0228] Contact point R3 of socket-side power source terminal 33 contacts contact point R3 of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0229] Contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 contacts contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23.

[0230] As a result, socket-side signal terminal 32 is electrically connected to header-side signal terminal 22 while socket-side power source terminal 33 is electrically connected to header-side power source terminal 23.

[0231] Circuit pattern 61 of first circuit board 60 is thus connected electrically to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40.

[0232] When disengaging header 20 from socket 30, both of header 20 and socket 30 are pulled in directions for peeling off header 20 from socket 30. Then, while locking part 32d having a step slides on locked part 22e having a step, the spring (32e, 32f, 32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, 32k, 32m) of socket-side signal terminal 32 elastically deforms and releases the locked state of locking part 33d and locked part 23e. At this moment, the engaging state of arcuate projection 32k to recess 22c is also released.

[0233] While locking part 33d having a step slides on locked part 23e having a step, the spring (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j, 33k, 33m) of socket-side power source terminal 33 elastically deforms, and releases the locked state of locking part 33d and locked part 23e. At this moment, the engaging state of arcuate projection 33k to recess 23c is also released.

[0234] Header 20 can be thus separated from socket 30.

[0235] In accordance with the embodiment, as described above, header-side holder bracket 24 is disposed at both end parts of header housing 21 in longitudinal direction X while socket-side holder brackets 34 is disposed at both end parts of socket housing 31 in longitudinal direction X. Header-side holder bracket 24 and socket-side holder brackets 34 are used for increasing the strength of header housing 21 and socket housing 31, and being attached and fixed to the above-described circuit board.

[0236] In accordance with the embodiment, mounting terminal 24a of header-side holder bracket 24 is soldered to second circuit board 40 as to assemble header 20 rigidly with second circuit board 40.

[0237] Mounting terminal 34d of socket-side holder brackets 34 is soldered to first circuit board 60 as to assemble socket 30 rigidly with first circuit board 60.

[0238] The above configuration allows header 20 and socket 30 rigidly assembled with the circuit boards to be engaged with each other. Header-side signal terminal 22 is consequently connected electrically to socket-side signal terminal 32 while header-side power source terminal 23 is consequently connected electrically to socket-side power source terminal 33, thereby electrically connecting circuit patterns of the circuit boards to each other.

[0239] Next, a fixing structure of each terminal and each holder bracket to the circuit pattern will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 to 37. The fixing structure of each terminal and each holder bracket to the circuit pattern is not limited to the states shown in FIGS. 34 to 37.

[0240] As illustrated in FIG. 34, header-side signal terminal 22, header-side power source terminal 23, and header-side holder bracket 24 can be fixed to circuit pattern 41.

[0241] In header-side signal terminal 22 disposed at the center in the longitudinal direction X, base part 22a is fixed to circuit pattern 41a for a signal with solder 50.

[0242] In header-side power source terminal 23 disposed at both sides in the longitudinal direction X, base part 23a is fixed to common circuit pattern 41b with solder 50. In header-side holder bracket 24, mounting terminal 24a is also fixed to common circuit pattern 41b with solder 50.

[0243] As shown in FIG. 34, mounting terminal 24a and base part 23a are soldered to common circuit pattern 41b.

[0244] As shown in FIG. 34, header-side power source terminal 23 and header-side holder bracket 24 which are disposed to be adjacent to each other are soldered to common circuit pattern 41b. In other words, header-side power source terminal 23 and header-side holder bracket 24 which are disposed to be adjacent to each other commonly use circuit pattern 41b.

[0245] Therefore, two header-side power source terminals 23 disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X are electrically connected to each other via circuit pattern 41b disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X and header-side holder bracket 24 disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X. Two header-side power source terminals 23 disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X are electrically connected to each other via circuit pattern 41b disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X and header-side holder bracket 24 disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X.

[0246] As illustrated in FIG. 35, socket-side signal terminal 32, socket-side power source terminal 33, and socket-side holder brackets 34 can be fixed to circuit pattern 61.

[0247] In socket-side signal terminal 32 disposed at the center in the longitudinal direction X, base part 32a is fixed to circuit pattern 61a for each signal with solder 70.

[0248] In socket-side power source terminal 33 disposed on both sides in the longitudinal direction X, base part 33a is fixed to common circuit pattern 61b with solder 70. In socket-side holder brackets 34, mounting terminal 34d is also fixed to common circuit pattern 61b with solder 70.

[0249] As shown in FIG. 35, mounting terminal 34d and base part 33a are soldered to common circuit pattern 61b.

[0250] As shown in FIG. 35, socket-side power source terminal 33 and socket-side holder brackets 34 which are adjacent to each other are soldered to common circuit pattern 61b. Therefore, two socket-side power source terminals 33 disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X are electrically connected to each other via circuit pattern 61b disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X and socket-side holder brackets 34 disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction X. Two socket-side power source terminals 33 disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X are also electrically connected to each other via circuit pattern 61b disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X and socket-side holder brackets 34 disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction X.

[0251] In accordance with the embodiment, first mounting terminal 34j and second mounting terminal 34k which constitute a group together are soldered to circuit pattern 61b to which base part 33a is soldered.

[0252] As illustrated in FIG. 36, header-side signal terminal 22, header-side power source terminal 23, and header-side holder bracket 24 can be fixed to circuit pattern 41.

[0253] In header-side signal terminal 22 disposed at the center in the longitudinal direction X, base part 22a is fixed to circuit pattern 41a for signals with solder 50.

[0254] In header-side power source terminals 23 disposed on both sides in the longitudinal direction X, base part 23a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 41c for power with solder 50.

[0255] In header-side holder bracket 24, mounting terminal 24a is configured to be fixed to circuit pattern 41d for fixing a bracket with solder 50.

[0256] As shown in FIG. 36, mounting terminal 24a and base part 23a are separately soldered to different circuit patterns 41.

[0257] As illustrated in FIG. 37, socket-side signal terminal 32, socket-side power source terminal 33, and socket-side holder brackets 34 can also be fixed to circuit pattern 61.

[0258] In socket-side signal terminal 32 disposed at the center in the longitudinal direction X, base part 32a is fixed to circuit pattern 61a for signal with solder 70.

[0259] In socket-side power source terminals 33 disposed on both sides in the longitudinal direction X, base part 33a is fixed to circuit pattern 61c for power source by solder 70.

[0260] In socket-side holder brackets 34, mounting terminal 34d is also fixed to circuit pattern 61d for engaging a bracket with solder 70.

[0261] In FIG. 37, mounting terminal 34d and base part 33a are separately soldered to different circuit patterns 61.

[0262] Any of the structures shown in FIGS. 34 and 36 is selected as the fixing structure on the socket-side while any of the structures shown in FIGS. 35 and 37 is selected as the fixing structure on the header-side. Both structures may be combined with each other to fix connector 10 to the circuit patterns.

[0263] As described above, connector 10 in accordance with the embodiment includes socket 30 and header 20. Socket 30 includes socket housing 31 having substantially a rectangular shape in which socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are disposed. Header 20 includes header housing 21 having substantially a rectangular shape in which header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 are disposed.

[0264] Socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 are arranged in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31. Socket-side signal terminal 32 has a width in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 is smaller than a width of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X.

[0265] Compared with a connector in which plural terminals are separately from each other and are also used as a power source terminal, the above configuration does not create a useless space, accordingly providing socket 30 with a small size in longitudinal direction X.

[0266] A cross section of socket-side signal terminal 32 has a shape identical to the shape of a cross section of socket-side power source terminal 33. This configuration improves component workability, and assembly workability.

[0267] Plural rows of socket-side terminal groups G2 each including socket-side signal terminal 32 and socket-side power source terminal 33 which are arranged in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 are disposed in socket housing 31.

[0268] This configuration increases a sectional area of the terminal, and increases a current capacity accordingly.

[0269] Socket-side power source terminal 33 has locking part 33d having a step locked to header-side power source terminal 23. Locking part 33d is formed from one end to the other end of socket-side power source terminal 33 in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0270] This configuration improves the locking force, and additionally, the friction at repetitive insertion and pulling out is unlikely to be generated, thus providing a long service life of a product.

[0271] Socket-side power source terminal 33 is disposed farther to the outside in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31 than socket-side signal terminal 32.

[0272] This configuration allows socket-side power source terminal 33 having a large heating capacity is disposed at the outside in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31, consequently increasing efficiency of heat dissipation.

[0273] In socket-side power source terminal 33 and header-side power source terminal 23, plural contact points R4 which contact each other are arranged in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0274] This configuration improves contact reliability of the terminals, and reduces contact resistances accordingly.

[0275] In socket-side power source terminal 33, plural tongues 35 and 36 are formed, and contact points R4 are provided at each of plural tongues 35 and 36.

[0276] This configuration improves contact reliability of the terminals, and reduces contact resistances accordingly.

[0277] Tongues 35 and 36 have flexibility, and can be bent independently of each other.

[0278] This configuration improves contact reliability of the terminals, and reduces contact resistances accordingly.

[0279] Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j). The free end (33k, 33m) including contact point R4 is connected to one end (33j side) of the U-shaped part (33e, 33f, 33g, 33h, 33i, 33j). Tongues 35 and 36 are formed at least at the free end (33k, 33m).

[0280] This configuration improves contact reliability of the terminals.

[0281] Recess 23c is formed at contact point (contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23) which is one contact point out of contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 and contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23 which contact each other. In addition, the other contact point (contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33) out of contact point R4 of socket-side power source terminal 33 and contact point R4 of header-side power source terminal 23 contacts both end parts (contact points C1 and C2) of recess 23c in longitudinal direction X of socket housing 31.

[0282] This configuration improves contact reliability of terminals.

[0283] In socket housing 31, socket-side holder brackets 34 is disposed, and at least a part (34a and 34c) of socket-side holder brackets 34 is exposed along outer surface 31s of socket housing 31.

[0284] This configuration reduces the size of the socket housing, and allows the socket housing to be fixed rigidly to the socket-side holder bracket.

[0285] Socket-side holder bracket 34 is exposed along at least one surface out of side surface 31t and bottom surface 31u of socket housing 31.

[0286] This configuration reduces the size of the socket housing, and allows the socket housing to be fixed rigidly to the socket-side holder bracket.

[0287] Socket-side holder brackets 34 are disposed in socket housing 31 by insert-molding.

[0288] As a result, the socket housing is fixed rigidly to the socket holder bracket. The contact area with the socket housing is larger than press-engaging, and improves heat dissipation.

[0289] Socket-side holder brackets 34 includes mounting terminal 34d configured to be soldered to circuit pattern 61 of first circuit board 60. Socket-side power source terminal 33 includes base part 33a configured to be soldered to circuit pattern 61 of circuit board 60. Mounting terminal 34d and base part 33a are soldered to common circuit pattern 61b.

[0290] This configuration allows the circuit pattern to which socket-side holder brackets 34 is fixed to be used as a heatsink dissipating heat generated by socket-side power source terminal 33, thus further improving heat dissipation.

[0291] Socket-side holder bracket 34 is adjacent to socket-side power source terminal 33.

[0292] This configuration improves heat dissipation and additionally, prevents the shapes of the circuit patterns from be complicated.

[0293] Mounting terminal 34d includes first mounting terminal 34j and second mounting terminal 34k separate from first mounting terminal 34j.

[0294] This configuration allows socket-side holder brackets 34 to be fixed rigidly to first circuit board 60.

[0295] At this moment, when first mounting terminal 34j and second mounting terminal 34k are soldered to circuit pattern 61b to which base part 33a is soldered, it is possible to improve the efficiency of heat dissipation.

[0296] Header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 are arranged in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21. Header-side signal terminal 22 has a width in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 is smaller than a width of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X.

[0297] Compared to a case where plural terminals separate from each other are used as power source terminals, the above configuration reduces a useless space, accordingly reducing the size of header 20 in longitudinal direction X.

[0298] Since the shape of a section of header-side signal terminal 22 is substantially identical to the shape of a section of header-side power source terminal 23, component workability is improved, and assembly workability is also improved.

[0299] In header housing 21, plural rows of header-side terminal groups G1 each including header-side signal terminal 22 and header-side power source terminal 23 arranged in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21.

[0300] This configuration increases the area of a section of the terminal, accordingly increasing a current capacity.

[0301] Header-side power source terminal 23 includes locked part 23e having a step locked to socket-side power source terminal 33. Locked part 23e is formed from one end to the other end of header-side power source terminal 23 in longitudinal direction X of header housing 21.

[0302] This configuration improves the locking force, and additionally, the friction generated due to repetitive insertion and pulling out is unlikely to be generated, and provides a long service life of a product.

[0303] Header-side power source terminal 23 which is disposed farther to the outside in the longitudinal direction X of header housing 21 than header-side signal terminal 22. The header-side power source terminal having a large heat capacity on the outside in the longitudinal direction of the header housing, hence increasing efficiency of heat dissipation.

[0304] In header housing 21, header-side holder bracket 24 is disposed. Header-side holder bracket 24 includes mounting terminal 24a soldered to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40. Header-side power source terminal 23 includes base part 23a soldered to circuit pattern 41 of second circuit board 40. Mounting terminal 24a and base part 23a are soldered to common circuit pattern 41b.

[0305] This configuration allows the circuit pattern to which header-side holder bracket 24 is fixed to be used as a heatsink for dissipating heat generated by header-side power source terminal 23, thus improving heat dissipation.

[0306] Header-side holder bracket 24 and header-side power source terminal 23 are adjacent to each other.

[0307] This configuration improves heat dissipation, and additionally, prevents the shape of the circuit pattern from be complicated.

[0308] In above, a preferable embodiment of the present invention is described, but the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0309] For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which header 20 has a structure symmetrical with respect to the center of header 20 in a plan view, and socket 30 has a structure symmetrical with respect to the center of socket 30 in a plan view (a connector which does not have polarity).

[0310] However, the present invention can be applied to a connector having polarity (a connector having a shape not the same when rotating by 180 degrees).

[0311] While header 20 is engaged with socket 30, the header-side holder bracket can be engaged with the socket-side holder bracket.

[0312] The socket-side housing or the header-side housing, and specifications (shape, size, or layout) of other specific parts, can be appropriately modified.

• [0313] 10 connector
• [0314] 20 header
• [0315] 21 header housing
• [0316] 22 header-side signal terminal
• [0317] 22a base part
• [0318] 22c recess
• [0319] 22e locked part
• [0320] 23 header-side power source terminal
• [0321] 23a base part
• [0322] 23c recess
• [0323] 23e locked part
• [0324] 24 header-side holder bracket
• [0325] 24a mounting terminal
• [0326] 30 socket
• [0327] 31 socket housing
• [0328] 31s outer surface
• [0329] 31t side surface
• [0330] 31u bottom surface
• [0331] 32 socket-side signal terminal
• [0332] 32a base part
• [0333] 33 socket-side power source terminal
• [0334] 33a base part
• [0335] 35 tongue
• [0336] 36 tongue
• [0337] 34 socket-side holder bracket
• [0338] 34d mounting terminal
• [0339] 34j first mounting terminal
• [0340] 34k second mounting terminal
• [0341] 34e outer wall
• [0342] 34f outer surface
• [0343] 40 second circuit board
• [0344] 41 circuit pattern
• [0345] 50 solder
• [0346] 60 first circuit board
• [0347] 61 circuit pattern
• [0348] 70 solder
• [0349] R1-R5 contact point
• [0350] C1, C2 contact point
• [0351] X longitudinal direction
• [0352] Y lateral direction (width direction)
• [0353] Z upward-and-downward direction