FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10, rule 13)
1. Title of the invention: PIN RECEIVING STRUCTURE AND OUTLET
2. Applicant(s)
NAME NATIONALITY ADDRESS
PANASONIC
CORPORATION
Japanese 1006, Oaza Kadoma, Kadoma-shi,
Osaka 571-8501, Japan
PANASONIC LIFE
SOLUTIONS INDIA PVT.,
LTD.
Indian 3rd Floor, B Wing, I Think Techno
Campus, Pokhran Road No. 2, Thane
(WEST), Thane 400607, India
3. Preamble to the description
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure relates generally to pin receiving structures and outlets, and more
particularly relates to a pin receiving structure configured to receive a plug pin, and an outlet
comprising the pin receiving structure.

BACKGROUND ART
[0002] JP2012-74160 A (hereinafter, referred to as a “Document 1”) discloses an outlet. Any of
two types of plugs including round-rod-shaped contactors (pins) having diameter dimensions
different from each other can be connected to the outlet. The outlet includes a terminal member,
for which a first contactor receiver and a second contactor receiver are 10 integrally provided. The
first contactor receiver is configured to be brought into electrical contact with a contactor of one
of the plugs, and the second contactor receiver is configured to be brought into electrical contact
with a contactor of the other of the plugs. The outlet further includes an auxiliary spring that is in
contact with an outer periphery of each contactor receiver to energize each contactor receiver in
a direction of holding the inserted contactor.
[0003] According to the outlet disclosed in the Document 1, even if any of the two types of
plugs including the contactors with diameter dimensions different from each other is connected
to the outlet, retention force of retaining the inserted contactor can be easily ensured by
energization from the auxiliary spring.
20 [0004] While the outlet disclosed in the Document 1 can handle even any of the two types of
plugs including the contactors (pins) with diameter (width) dimensions different from each other,
the auxiliary spring is however needed as another member separately from the terminal member.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0005] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a pin receiving structure, and an outlet
which can reduce the number of components and further enhance connection reliability with

respect to pins having width dimensions different from each other.
[0006] A pin receiving structure according to an aspect of the present disclosure is configured
to selectively receive a target pin that is any of a first plug pin with a relatively small width and a
second plug pin with a width larger than at least the width of the first plug pin, and inserted from
an insertion hole. The pin receiving structure includes a pin receiver formed 5 of metal like a plate
shape. The pin receiver includes a pair of facing parts facing each other, and is configured to
apply, to the target pin, elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts come closer to
each other so as to hold the target pin between the facing parts. The facing parts include a pair of
protrusions that are protruded in a direction of coming closer to each other. At least the
protrusions are configured to be in contact with the target pin. The protrusions are configured
such that a distance therebetween is smaller than the width of the first plug pin not only in a first
state before the pin receiver is plastically deformed but also in a second state after the pin
receiver is plastically deformed by the second plug pin being received by the pin receiver and
then withdrawn from the pin receiver.
15 [0007] A pin receiving structure according to another aspect of the present disclosure is
configured to selectively receive a target pin that is any of a first plug pin with a relatively small
width and a second plug pin with a width larger than at least the width of the first plug pin, and
inserted from an insertion hole. The pin receiving structure includes a pin receiver formed of
metal like a plate shape. The pin receiver includes a pair of facing parts facing each other, and is
configured to apply, to the target pin, elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts
come closer to each other so as to hold the target pin between the facing parts. The facing parts
include a pair of protrusions that are protruded in a direction of coming closer to each other. At
least the protrusions are configured to be in contact with the target pin. The facing parts are
symmetrical at parts on an opposite side of a tip of at least one of the protrusions from the
insertion hole.

[0008] An outlet according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes any one of the
above-mentioned pin receiving structures and a housing that has the insertion hole and that
houses the pin receiving structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION 5 OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of an outlet with a pin receiving structure according to an
exemplary embodiment, and a plurality of plugs connectable with the outlet.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the outlet.
FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first spring block of the outlet.
FIG. 5A is a sectional view of the pin receiving structure in a first state (initial state).
FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the pin receiving structure in a state where a first plug pin
has been inserted thereto.
FIG. 5C is a sectional view of the pin receiving structure in a state where a second plug
pin has been inserted thereto.
FIG. 5D is a sectional view of the pin receiving structure in a second state where the
second plug pin has been inserted thereto and then withdrawn therefrom.
FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining four states of the pin receiving structure.
FIG. 7 is a plane view partially broken, of the outlet.
FIG. 8 is an essential sectional view of a variation (First Variation) of the pin receiving
structure.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0010]
(1) Overview

An exemplary embodiment described below is merely one of various embodiments
according to the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiment described below may be made
various modifications based on designs or the like, as long as the object of the present disclosure
can be achieved. Also FIGS. 1 to 8 explained in the exemplary embodiment described below are
schematic drawings. Thus, the sizes, thicknesses, and other attributes 5 of the respective
constituent elements illustrated on those drawings are not always to scale, compared with actual
ones.
[0011] In the following description, an “upward/downward direction”, a “rightward/leftward
direction” and a “forward/backward direction” of a pin receiving structure X1 and an outlet 100
according to the present embodiment are defined based on arrows of UP, DWN, R, L, FWD and
BWD shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. Those arrows are illustrated merely for convenience of explanation,
and have no entity. Those directions should not be construed as limiting the directions in which
the pin receiving structure X1 and the outlet 100 are used.
[0012] It is herein assumed that, for example, the pin receiving structure X1 (refer to FIGS. 2 to
4) is applied to the outlet 100, as a so-called universal type of outlet with which a “Plug type A”,
a “Plug type B” and a “Plug type C” are selectively connectable. As shown in 2, the outlet 100
includes the pin receiving structure X1 and a housing 3. The housing 3 has an insertion hole 30
(refer to FIG. 1), and houses therein the pin receiving structure X1.
[0013] The pin receiving structure X1 is configured to selectively receive a target pin 40 that is
any of a first plug pin 40A (refer to FIG. 1) and a second plug pin 40B or 40C (refer to FIG. 1),
inserted from the insertion hole 30. The first plug pin 40A has a relatively small width W1 (refer
to FIG. 5B). The second plug pin 40B (and 40C) has a width W2 (refer to FIG. 5C) larger than at
least the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A.
[0014] As one example, it is assumed that the first plug pin 40A (thin pin) is a plug pin (round
pin) of the Plug type C according to PUBLICATION 7 established by Commission International

de Certification de Conformite de l' Equipment. Electrique (CEE). Also as one example, it is
assumed that the second plug pin 40B (and 40C) (thick pin) is a plug pin (round pin) of the Plug
type B3 according to IS 1293:2005 of Indian Standard. The first plug pin 40A and the second
plug pin 40B (and 40C) are not limited to round pins. At least one plug of the first plug pin 40A
and the second plug pin 40B (and 40C) may have a blade(s) like a flat plate. 5 Alternatively, at
least one plug of the first plug pin 40A and the second plug pin 40B (and 40C) may have a
square pin(s) like a square pole.
[0015] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5D, the pin receiving structure X1 includes a pin receiver 10
(first pin receiver X11) formed of metal like a plate shape. The pin receiver 10 includes a pair of
facing parts 11 (paired facing parts) facing each other, and is configured to apply, to the target
pin 40, elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts 11 come closer to each other so as
to hold the target pin 40 between the facing parts 11. The facing parts 11 include a pair of
protrusions 110 (paired protrusions) that are protruded in a direction of coming closer to each
other, and at least the protrusions 110 are configured to be in contact with the target pin 40.
1 [0016] Here, in the pin receiving structure X1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure,
the protrusions 110 are configured such that a distance L1 (refer to FIGS. 5A to 6) therebetween
is smaller than the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A not only in a first state (refer to FIG. 5A)
before the pin receiver 10 is plastically deformed but also in a second state. The second state
mentioned herein is a state after the pin receiver 10 is plastically deformed by the second plug
pin 40B (or 40C) being received by the pin receiver 10 and then withdrawn (removed) from the
pin receiver 10 (refer to FIG. 5D).
[0017] According to the configuration, the distance L1 is smaller than the width W1 of the first
plug pin 40A not only in the first state but also in the second state. Thus, while the auxiliary
spring of the outlet disclosed in the Document 1 is not needed, the retention force (withdrawal
force) can be remained with respect to target pins 40 with width (diameter) dimensions different

from each other. The pin receiving structure X1 can therefore reduce the number of components
and further enhance connection reliability with respect to pins (target pins 40) having width
dimensions different from each other.
[0018] Also in the pin receiving structure X1 according to another aspect of the present
disclosure, the facing parts 11 are symmetrical at parts on an opposite side 5 of a tip P1 of at least
one of the protrusions 110 from the insertion hole 30 (refer to FIG. 3). Also according to the
configuration, the pin receiving structure X1 can reduce the number of components and further
enhance connection reliability with respect to pins (target pins 40) having width dimensions
different from each other.
10 [0019]
(2) Details
(2.1) Overall configuration
FIG. 1 shows the appearance of the outlet 100 including the pin receiving structure X1
(refer to FIGS. 2 to 4) according to the present embodiment. As explained in the above column
15 “(1) Overview”, the outlet 100 is configured as an outlet with which different plug types, namely,
a “Plug type A”, a “Plug type B3” and a “Plug type C” are selectively connectable. Herein, the
outlet 100 will be mainly explained using, as a target to be connected to the outlet 100, a plug 4
(hereinafter, referred to as a “first plug 4A”) of the Plug type C according to PUBLICATION 7
established by CEE, and a plug 4 (hereinafter, referred to as a “second plug 4B”) of the Plug type
20 B3 according to Indian Standard (refer to FIG. 1).
[0020] The outlet 100 may be disposed to be embedded in one surface (wall surface or the like)
of a building material of a building with the outlet 100 being attached to an attachment frame and
a decorative plate, for example. As shown in FIG. 2, the outlet 100 includes: a pair of first spring
blocks 1 that are arranged right and left so as to receive a pin (contactor) for a voltage pole; a
25 second spring block 2 to receive a pin for a grounding pole; and a housing 3 to house therein the
7
pair of first spring blocks 1 and the second spring block 2.
[0021] Here the structure of the first spring blocks 1 and the housing 3 to house those, of the
outlet 100, has a configuration that is in plane symmetry with respect to the rightward/leftward
direction in which the first spring blocks 1 are arranged. Thus, in the following description, a
first spring block 1 on the right side shown in FIG. 2, of the pair of first 5 spring blocks 1, will be
mainly explained, and explanations of a first spring block 1 on the left side, of the pair of first
spring blocks 1, will be appropriately omitted unless otherwise specified.
[0022]
(2.2) Plug
10 As shown in FIG. 1, the first plug 4A (Plug type C) as one example of the target to be
connected to the outlet 100 includes a pair of first plug pins 40A for voltage poles. Both of the
first plug pins 40A are round pins. Here as one example, the first plug 4A is provided integrally
with a body 500 of a mobile charger capable of charging a mobile terminal, such as a smart
phone. The mobile charger can receive power supply from, for example, a commercial power
15 source by the first plug 4A being connected to the outlet 100. For example, when the mobile
terminal is connected to the body 500 via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable and the first plug
4A is connected to the outlet 100, the mobile terminal can be charged. Note that, as described
later, the pair of first plug pins 40A can be connected to the outlet 100 even from any of insertion
holes 30 on lower side and insertion holes 31 on upper side.
20 [0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the second plug 4B (Plug type B3) as another example of the target
to be connected to the outlet 100 includes a pair of second plug pins 40B for voltage poles and a
grounding pin 41 for a grounding pole. The second plug 4B is attached to an electrical load via a
cable 42. All the second plug pins 40B and the grounding pin 41 are round pins. The grounding
pin 41 is longer than each second plug pin 40B. The electrical load can receive power supply
25 from, for example, a commercial power source by the second plug 4B being connected to the
8
outlet 100. Note that, the paired second plug pins 40B are inserted from the insertion holes 30 on
lower side, and the grounding pin 41 is inserted from an insertion hole 32, and those can be
therefore connected to the outlet 100.
[0024] A two-pin type of third plug 4C (refer to FIG. 1) without a pin for a grounding pole is
also a plug according to Indian Standard, and yet another example of 5 the target to be connected
to the outlet 100, although detail explanations thereof are omitted. The third plug 4C includes a
pair of second plug pins 40C for voltage poles. The second plug pins 40C have the same width
(diameter) W2 as that of the second plug pins 40B. The second plug pins 40C are longer than the
second plug pins 40B. The second plug pins 40C can be connected to the outlet 100 by being
inserted from the insertion holes 30 on lower side.
[0025] Also, a fourth plug 4D (Plug type A) (refer to FIG. 1) is yet another example of the
target to be connected to the outlet 100. The fourth plug 4D includes a pair of flat pins (blades)
40D for voltage poles. The pair of flat pins 40D can be connected to the outlet 100 by being
inserted from the insertion holes 30 on lower side.
[0026] Here, each first plug pin 40A has a relatively small width W1 (refer to FIG. 5B). Each
second plug pin 40B has the width W2 (refer to FIG. 5C) larger than at least the width W1 of the
first plug pin 40A. Similarly, each second plug pin 40C has the width W2 larger than at least the
width W1 of the first plug pin 40A. The width W1 of the first plug pin 40A (herein, a diameter
since it is a round pin) is about 4 mm. On the other hand, the width W2 of each of the second
plug pins 40B and 40C (herein, a diameter since it is a round pin) is about 5 mm. Each first plug
pin 40A has a length of about 19 mm. Each second plug pin 40B has a length of about 15.9 mm.
Each second plug pin 40C has the substantially same length as that of the first plug pin 40A, for
example.
25 [0027]
9
(2.3) First Spring Block
The pair of first spring blocks 1 of the outlet 100 (refer to FIG. 2) is housed within the
housing 3.
[0028] Each first spring block 1 includes the pin receiving structure X1 (refer to FIGS. 2 to 4).
The pin receiving structure X1 is configured to selectively receive the target 5 pin 40 that is any of
the first plug pin 40A and the second plug pin 40B (or 40C).
[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the pin receiving structure X1 includes a pin receiver 10. Here, in
addition to a first pin receiver X11 as the pin receiver 10, the pin receiving structure X1 further
includes a second pin receiver X12 to receive another pin and a pressing part X13 to receive the
10 flat pin (blade) 40D. The first pin receiver X11 and the second pin receiver X12 are, for example,
metal plate parts formed like substantially U-shapes and having spring property. The first pin
receiver X11 and the second pin receiver X12 may be formed integrally with each other by e.g.,
cutting, punching and bending a single metal plate member (a plate made of metal such as brass
or the like). The pressing part X13 is, for example, a metal plate part formed like a substantially
15 L-shape and having spring property. The pressing part X13 may be formed by e.g., cutting,
punching and bending a single metal plate member (a plate made of metal such as brass or the
like), and may be provided separately from the first pin receiver X11 and the second pin receiver
X12.
[0030] The first pin receiver X11 is configured to receive the target pin 40 inserted from a
20 corresponding insertion hole 30 of the housing 3 (refer to FIGS. 1, 2 and 7). The second pin
receiver X12 is configured to receive the target pin 40 inserted from a corresponding insertion
hole 31 of the housing 3 (refer to FIGS. 1 and 2). The pressing part X13 and the first pin receiver
X11 are configured to receive the flat pin (target pin 40) inserted from a corresponding insertion
hole 30 of the housing 3.
25 [0031] The target pin 40 from the insertion hole 30 is a pin of any plug of the above-mentioned
10
first, second, third and fourth plug 4A to 4D. The target pin 40 from the insertion hole 31
disposed above the insertion hole 30 is the first plug pin 40A of the first plug 4A. In short, the
first plug 4A (Plug type C) can be inserted not only from the insertion holes 30 but also from the
insertion holes 31. The insertion holes 30 have opening diameters slightly larger than those of the
5 insertion holes 31.
[0032]
(2.3.1) First Pin Receiver
The first pin receiver X11 (pin receiver 10) is disposed in the housing 3 to face the
insertion hole 30. As shown in FIG. 4, the first pin receiver X11 includes a pair of facing parts 11
10 arranged up and down, and a connection part 12 integrally coupling the pair of facing parts 11.
The first pin receiver X11 is configured to apply, to the target pin 40, elastic force along a
direction in which the paired facing parts 11 come closer to each other so as to hold the target pin
40 between the paired facing parts 11.
[0033] Hereinafter, one on upper side, of the paired facing parts 11, is referred to as an “upper
15 facing part 11A”, and the other on lower side, of the paired facing parts 11, is referred to as a
“lower facing part 11B” (refer to FIG. 4). The paired facing parts 11 and the connection part 12
are formed integrally with each other.
[0034] Each facing part 11 is a rectangular plate-shaped part formed long substantially along
the forward/backward direction, and its thickness direction is substantially in parallel to the
20 upward/downward direction. The paired facing parts 11 face each other in the upward/downward
direction. Here, the facing parts 11 include a pair of protrusions 110 that are protruded in a
direction of coming closer to each other. At least the protrusions 110 are configured to be in
contact with the target pin 40. That is, a protrusion 110 of the lower facing part 11B, of the
protrusions 110, is protruded upward (hereinafter, referred to as a “first protrusion 111”), and a
25 protrusion 110 of the upper facing part 11A, of the protrusions 110, is protruded downward
11
(hereinafter, referred to as a “second protrusion 112”) (refer to FIG. 4). The protrusions 110 are
formed such that front end portions of the paired facing parts 11 are curved convexly.
[0035] More specifically, the paired facing parts 11 are respectively extended to center portions
Y1 thereof from rear ends thereof in the forward/backward direction (refer to FIG. 4).
Furthermore, the paired facing parts 11 are respectively inclined to come 5 closer to each other
toward front ends thereof from the center portions Y1, and further curved so as to separate from
each other at near the front ends. In this manner, the protrusions 110 are provided. The upper
facing part 11A is bent upward at a tip thereof so as to be connected integrally with the second
pin receiver X12. In other words, the second pin receiver X12 is connected to one of the paired
10 facing parts 11, namely, the upper facing part 11A. Note that, each facing part 11 has a width
(dimension in the rightward/leftward direction) smaller than a width (dimension in the
rightward/leftward direction) of the second pin receiver X12 (refer to FIG. 4).
[0036] The connection part 12 is a rectangular plate-shaped part, and its thickness direction is
in parallel to the forward/backward direction, and couples the paired facing parts 11 with each
15 other. The paired facing parts 11 are respectively extended forward from upper and lower ends of
the connection part 12.
[0037] The connection part 12 is provided with a through-hole 120 that penetrates in the
thickness direction thereof and disposed at a substantially center in a planar view, of the
connection part 12 (refer to FIG. 4). The pressing part X13 is also provided with a through-hole
20 131 that penetrates in the thickness direction thereof and disposed at a rear end 130 of the
pressing part X13 formed like the substantially L-shape when viewed along the
upward/downward direction. The first pin receiver X11, the second pin receiver X12 and the
pressing part X13 are fixed to a pillar terminal 5 (i.e., a terminal with screw) by inserting, to the
through-holes 120 and 131 from the back side, a projection projected from a front surface of a
25 frame body 50 (refer to FIG. 3) of the pillar terminal 5 and then caulking a tip of the projection
12
inserted. In other words, the first pin receiver X11 (pin receiver 10) is fixed to the pillar terminal
5 as an attachment object T1 via the connection part 12.
[0038] Here looking at only the paired facing parts 11 and the connection part 12, those parts
constitute a plate spring formed like a substantially U-shape when viewed along the
rightward/leftward direction. Thus, when the target pin 40 is inserted 5 between the paired facing
parts 11, namely, into an inner space of the U-shape, the paired facing parts 11 are displaced in a
direction of separating from each other while coming into contact with the target pin 40 by
substantially point-contact. In other words, the paired facing parts 11 are elastically deformed so
as to expand outward in the upward/downward direction. The target pin 40 is pinched and held
10 by the elastic returning force of the paired facing parts 11, which acts in a direction of returning
inward in the upward/downward direction. Therefore, electrical connection between the target
pin 40 and the pin receiving structure X1 can be achieved. The target pin 40 is in contact with the
paired facing parts 11 by substantially point-contact at the tips P1 thereof in a state where the
insertion of the target pin 40 has been completed.
15 [0039] In the pin receiving structure X1 according to the present embodiment, a distance L1
between the paired protrusions 110 is smaller than the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A not
only in a first state before the first pin receiver X11 is plastically deformed but also in a second
state. The first state is a state (initial state) where the first pin receiver X11 has never received the
second plug pin 40B, not even once, after manufacturing the pin receiving structure X1 for
20 example. The second state is a state after the first pin receiver X11 is plastically deformed by the
second plug pin 40B being received by the first pin receiver X11 and then withdrawn from the
first pin receiver X11 even once. The distance L1 is, for example, a distance between the tips P1
of the paired protrusions 110 (refer to FIG. 3).
[0040] That is, the shape and dimensional relationship of the pin receiving structure X1 are
25 defined such that the distance L1 is smaller than the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A even in
13
any of the first state and the second state. Accordingly, even after the first pin receiver X11 is
plastically deformed, the pin receiving structure X1 can provide a stable contact pressure with
respect to both of the first plug pin 40A and the second plug pin 40B, and can therefore achieve
necessary and sufficient electrical connection. The pin receiving structure X1 is defined such that,
for example, the dimensional relationship of “L11 < L12 < W1 5 (about 4 mm) < W2 (about 5
mm)” is met, where “L11” denotes the distance L1 before plastic deformation of the first pin
receiver X11, and “L12” denotes the distance L1 after the plastic deformation (refer to FIG. 6).
For example, “L11” is 2.7 mm, and “L12” is 3.09 mm.
[0041] Also in the present embodiment, the paired facing parts 11 are symmetrical at parts (up
10 and down) on an opposite side (i.e., the back side) of the tip P1 of at least one of the paired
protrusions 110 (herein, the tips P1 of both) from the insertion hole 30, when viewed along the
rightward/leftward direction (refer to FIG. 3). Herein for example it is defined such that, even in
a state where any target pin 40 has been inserted, the paired facing parts 11 are symmetrical with
respect to a central axis of the target pin 40 inserted. Thus, when the target pin 40 is inserted,
15 both of the paired facing parts 11 can be displaced to expand with more excellent balance in the
upward/downward direction, compared with a case where they are asymmetrical. The pin
receiving structure X1 can therefore reduce a possibility that the distance L1 in the second state
after the plastic deformation is equal to or larger than the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A.
[0042] Here, the connection part 12 serves as a fulcrum when the first pin receiver X11 is
20 elastically deformed, and is disposed at rear ends of the paired facing parts 11 so as to face the
insertion hole 30. Thus, the connection part 12 is positioned away from the tips P1 of the
protrusions 110 that come into contact with the target pin 40 when inserted. The pin receiving
structure X1 can therefore suppress the first pin receiver X11 from being plastically deformed by
the target pin 40 (in particular, the second plug pin 40B).
25 [0043]
14
(2.3.2) Pressing Part
The pressing part X13 is a part for coming into contact with the flat pin 40D of the
fourth plug 4D (Plug type A). As shown in FIG. 4, the pressing part X13 includes the rear end
130 with the through-hole 131 described above, and an extension 132 formed integrally with the
rear end 130. The extension 132 is extended forward from an edge in 5 the rightward/leftward
direction (left edge in FIG. 4), of the rear end 130. The extension 132 has the almost same
dimension as that of the lower facing part 11B, in the forward/backward direction.
[0044] The pressing part X13 is configured to come into contact with the flat pin 40D inserted
from the insertion hole 30 by substantially surface-contact to apply elastic force to it. That is, the
10 pressing part X13 presses the flat pin 40D against end faces of the paired facing parts 11 (left end
faces in FIG. 4) to hold it. Therefore, electrical connection between the flat pin 40D and the pin
receiving structure X1 can be achieved. The tip of the extension 132 is inclined in a direction of
separating from the paired facing parts 11, toward the insertion hole 30. Accordingly, the flat pin
40D can be easily inserted into the pin receiving structure X1.
15 [0045]
(2.3.3) Second Pin Receiver
The second pin receiver X12 is configured to receive the target pin 40 (herein as one
example, the first plug pin 40A of the first plug 4A) inserted from the insertion hole 31.
[0046] The second pin receiver X12 is disposed in the housing 3 so as to face the insertion hole
20 31. As shown in FIG. 4, the second pin receiver X12 includes a pair of facing parts 15 arranged
up and down, and a connection part 16 integrally coupling the paired facing parts 15. The second
pin receiver X12 is configured to apply, to the first plug pin 40A, elastic force along a direction
in which the paired facing parts 15 come closer to each other so as to hold it between the paired
facing parts 15.
25 [0047] Hereinafter, one on upper side, of the paired facing parts 15, is referred to as an “upper
15
facing part 15A”, and the other on lower side, of the paired facing parts 15, is referred to as a
“lower facing part 15B” (refer to FIG. 4). The paired facing parts 15 and the connection part 16
are formed integrally with each other.
[0048] Each facing part 15 is a rectangular plate-shaped part formed long substantially along
the forward/backward direction, and its thickness direction is substantially 5 in parallel to the
upward/downward direction. The paired facing parts 15 face each other in the upward/downward
direction. Here, the upper facing part 15A of the paired facing parts 15 includes a protrusion 150
(refer to FIG. 4) that is protruded in a direction of coming closer to the lower facing part 15B (i.e.,
downward). At least the protrusion 150 and the lower facing part 15B are configured to come
into contact with the target pin 40. The protrusion 150 is formed such that a front end portion of
the upper facing part 15A is curved convexly.
[0049] More specifically, the upper facing part 15A is extended to a first portion Z1 (refer to
FIG. 4) thereof from a rear end thereof in the forward/backward direction. Furthermore, the
upper facing part 15A is inclined at a first inclination angle to the forward/backward direction so
as to come closer to the lower facing part 15B toward a second portion Z2 thereof from the first
portion Z1. Also the upper facing part 15A is inclined at a second inclination angle to the
forward/backward direction so as to come closer to the lower facing part 15B toward a front end
thereof from the second portion Z2, and further curved so as to separate from the lower facing
part 15B at near the front end. The second portion Z2 is, for example, located slightly away
backward from the center of the upper facing part 15A in the forward/backward direction. The
first portion Z1 is located at a center between the rear end and the second portion Z2, of the
upper facing part 15A. The second inclination angle is smaller than the first inclination angle. In
this manner, the protrusion 150 is provided. On the other hand, the lower facing part 15B is
extended along the forward/backward direction from the rear end thereof. The lower facing part
15B is bent downward at a tip thereof so as to be connected integrally with the first pin receiver
16
X11.
[0050] The connection part 16 is a rectangular plate-shaped part, and its thickness direction is
in parallel to the forward/backward direction, and couples the paired facing parts 15 with each
other. The paired facing parts 15 are respectively extended forward from upper and lower ends of
the connection part 16.
[0051] Here looking at only the paired facing parts 15 and the connection part 16, those parts
constitute a plate spring formed like a substantially U-shape when viewed along the
rightward/leftward direction. Thus, when the target pin 40 is inserted between the paired facing
parts 15, namely, into an inner space of the U-shape, the lower facing part 15B comes into
contact with the target pin 40 by substantially surface-contact, and the upper facing part 15A is
displaced in a direction of separating from the lower facing part 15B while coming into contact
with the target pin 40 by substantially point-contact. In other words, the paired facing parts 15 (in
particular, the upper facing part 15A) are elastically deformed so as to expand outward in the
upward/downward direction. The target pin 40 is pinched and held by the elastic returning force
of the paired facing parts 15, which acts in a direction of returning inward in the
upward/downward direction. Therefore, electrical connection between the target pin 40 and the
pin receiving structure X1 can be achieved. The target pin 40 is in contact with the upper facing
part 15A by substantially point-contact at a tip P2 of the protrusion 150 (refer to FIG. 3) in a state
where the insertion of the target pin 40 has been completed.
[0052] Note that, the pin receiving structure X1 of the present embodiment is configured such
that the connection part 16 of the second pin receiver X12 is located front of the connection part
of the first pin receiver X11 in the forward/backward direction, as shown in FIG. 5A for
example.
[0053]
(2.4) Second Spring Block

In the following description, the second spring block 2 (refer to FIG. 2) of the outlet 100
will be simply explained, since it is not a characteristic part for the present embodiment.
[0054] The second spring block 2 is housed in the housing 3. The second spring block 2 is
configured to receive the grounding pin 41 for a grounding pole, of the second plug 4B. The
second spring block 2 includes a grounding pole pin receiver 20 (hereinafter, 5 simply referred to
as the “pin receiver 20”) (refer to FIG. 2). The pin receiver 20 has spring property, and is formed
of a metal plate (e.g., brass plate). More specifically, the pin receiver 20 is disposed to face the
insertion hole 32 of the housing 3. The pin receiver 20 includes a pair of facing pieces 200
arranged up and down, and is configured to apply, to the grounding pin 41, elastic force along a
10 direction in which the paired facing pieces 200 come closer to each other so as to hold it between
the paired facing pieces 200. Therefore, electrical connection between the grounding pin 41 and
the second spring block 2 can be achieved. The second spring block 2 is fixed to a pillar terminal
(refer to FIG. 2), as well as the first spring block 1.
[0055]
15 (2.5) Housing
The housing 3 is formed like a substantially rectangular and flat box shape as the whole,
and configured to house therein the paired first spring blocks 1, and the second spring block 2.
As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 3 includes a cover 3A, a body 3B, a shutter 3C and a retainer 3D.
The cover 3A and the body 3B are assembled with each other.
[0056] The cover 3A has electric insulation. The cover 3A is made of thermosetting resin such
as urea resin or the like. As shown in FIG. 1, the cover 3A is formed like a rectangular plate
shape in a front view thereof. The cover 3A is provided in a front surface thereof with five
insertion holes in total (the pair of insertion holes 30, the pair of insertion holes 31 and the
insertion hole 32) that penetrate in the thickness direction.
[0057] The paired insertion holes 30 are disposed to be arranged right and left at a location

slightly away downward from a center of the front surface of the cover 3A in the
upward/downward direction. As shown in FIG. 1, each of the paired insertion holes 30 is
provided as a so-called universal type of outlet port configured by a first opening 301 and a
second opening 302 that are integrally connected with each other. The first opening 301 is
formed like a rectangular shape such that the flat pin (blade) can be inserted 5 thereto. The second
opening 302 is formed like a circular shape such that the round pin can be inserted thereto. That
is, the paired first plug pins 40A of the first plug 4A, the paired second plug pins 40B of the
second plug 4B, the paired second plug pins 40C of the third plug 4C and the paired flat pins
40D of the fourth plug 4D can be selectively inserted to the paired insertion holes 30.
[0058] The paired insertion holes 31 are disposed to be arranged right and left at the almost
center of the front surface of the cover 3A in the upward/downward direction. The paired
insertion holes 31 are disposed at locations upwardly away from the paired insertion holes 30 at
a prescribed interval. Each of the insertion holes 31 has an opening like a circular shape such that
the round pin can be inserted thereto. The paired first plug pins 40A of the first plug 4A can be
inserted to the paired insertion holes 31.
[0059] The insertion hole 32 is disposed at a center in the rightward/leftward direction and at a
location slightly away upward from the center of the front surface of the cover 3A in the
upward/downward direction. The insertion hole 32 has an opening like a circular shape such that
the round pin can be inserted thereto. The grounding pin 41 of the second plug 4B can be
inserted to the insertion hole 32.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cover 3A further includes a frame part 33 that is
protruded backward from a rear face thereof and formed like a rectangular frame shape. The
cover 3A and the body 3B are assembled by screwing or the like while a peripheral wall 34 of
the body 3B is fitted into the inside of the frame part 33.
[0061] The body 3B has electric insulation. The body 3B is made of thermosetting resin such as
19
urea resin or the like. The body 3B is formed like an almost rectangular box shape with an
opened front face, as the whole. The body 3B includes the peripheral wall 34 that is protruded
forward along an outer peripheral edge thereof and configured to be fitted into the inside of the
frame part 33. The peripheral wall 34 is formed like an almost rectangular frame shape when
5 viewed from the front.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 2, the body 3B includes three respective housing parts (a pair of first
housing parts 36 and a second housing part 37) for housing therein the paired first spring blocks
1 and the second spring block 2 individually. The paired first spring blocks 1 and the second
spring block 2 housed in the three housing parts are electrically insulated from one another.
10 [0063] The paired first housing parts 36 are disposed to be arranged in the rightward/leftward
direction within a region inside of the peripheral wall 34 in the front face, of the body 3B. Each
of the first housing parts 36 has a rectangular opening that is long in the upward/downward
direction when viewed from the front (refer to FIG. 3 where a first housing part 36 on the right
side is only illustrated). Each first housing part 36 has a recess 360 (refer to FIG. 3), recessed
15 backward, for housing therein a corresponding first spring block 1. Each first housing part 36
further has a recessed part 361 (refer to FIG. 3), provided in the bottom of the recess 360, for
housing therein a corresponding pillar terminal 5. The respective first spring blocks 1 are housed
in the first housing parts 36, while the corresponding pillar terminals 5 are fixed thereto by
caulking. As shown in FIG. 3, an end of an electric wire (voltage line) C1 can be introduced from
20 an introduction port 381 provided on the rear face side, of the body 3B, to be housed in the frame
body 50 of the corresponding pillar terminal 5 while the other end of the electric wire C1 is
electrically connected to the commercial power source, for example. The electric wire C1 can be
fixed to the corresponding pillar terminal 5 by inserting a tip of a tool such as a screwdriver from
a window hole 391 (refer to FIG. 3) provided on the rear face side, of the body 3B, and then
25 fastening a screw 51 of the corresponding pillar terminal 5 with the tool. The electric wire C1

can be therefore electrically connected to the first spring block 1.
[0064] The second housing part 37 is disposed above the paired first housing parts 36 within
the region inside of the peripheral wall 34 in the front face, of the body 3B. The second housing
part 37 has a rectangular opening that is long in the upward/downward direction when viewed
from the front. The second housing part 37 has a recess 370 (refer to FIG. 5 2), recessed backward,
for housing therein the second spring block 2. The second housing part 37 further has a recessed
part, provided in the bottom of the recess 370, for housing therein a corresponding pillar terminal
5. The second spring block 2 is housed in the second housing part 37, while the corresponding
pillar terminal 5 is fixed thereto by caulking. As shown in FIG. 3, an end of an electric wire
(grounding line) C2 can be introduced from an introduction port 382 provided on the rear face
side, of the body 3B, to be housed in the frame body 50 of the corresponding pillar terminal 5,
for example. The electric wire C2 can be fixed to the corresponding pillar terminal 5 by inserting
a tip of a tool such as a screwdriver from a window hole 392 (refer to FIG. 3) provided on the
rear face side, of the body 3B, and then fastening the screw 51 of the corresponding pillar
terminal 5 with the tool. The electric wire C2 can be therefore electrically connected to the
second spring block 2.
[0065] The retainer 3D has electric insulation. The body 3B is a rectangular plate-shaped
member as the whole, made of synthetic resin material, for example. The retainer 3D is disposed
to cover, from the front side, the paired first spring blocks 1 and the second spring block
respectively housed in the paired first housing parts 36 and the second housing part 37, and
assembled to the body 3B. The retainer 3D is configured to restrict the paired first spring blocks
1 and the second spring block 2 from being displaced forward. The retainer 3D has five
through-holes 395 (refer to FIG. 2) for guiding the target pins 40 inserted from the five insertion
holes (30 to 32) toward the paired first spring blocks 1 and the second spring block 2. Also the
retainer 3D retains on the front face side thereof the shutter 3C.
21
[0066] The shutter 3C has electric insulation. The shutter 3C is an almost T-shaped plate
member as the whole, made of synthetic resin material, for example. The shutter 3C is retained
by the retainer 3D so as to be slidable along the upward/downward direction between the rear
face of the cover 3A and the front face of the retainer 3D. More specifically, the shutter 3C can
be moved between a first location (refer to FIG. 1) of closing the paired 5 insertion holes and
the insertion hole 32 and exposing the paired insertion holes 31, and a second location of
exposing the paired insertion holes 30 and the insertion hole 32 and closing the paired insertion
holes 31. The shutter 3C may be at the first location while the outlet 100 is unused.
[0067] In case of trying connection of the first plug 4A to the outlet 100, using the paired
insertion holes 31, the first plug 4A can be inserted while the shutter 3C is at the first location. If
the shutter 3C is at the second location, the first plug pins 40A of the first plug 4A are
respectively brought into contact with and press against inclined surfaces 397 (refer to FIG. 1 to
3) of the shutter 3C, when inserted into the insertion holes 31. Accordingly, the shutter 3C is slid
downward and moved to the first location, which can allow the first plug 4A to be inserted.
[0068] In case of trying connection of the (three-pin type of) second plug 4B to the outlet 100,
using the paired insertion holes 30 and the insertion hole 32, the grounding pin 41 of the second
plug 4B is brought into contact with and presses against an inclined surface 396 of the shutter 3C
when inserted into the insertion hole 32. Accordingly, the shutter 3C is slid upward and moved to
the second location, which can allow the second plug 4B to be inserted. In case of trying
connection of any of the (two-pin type of) plugs 4A, 4C and 4D to the outlet 100, using the
paired insertion holes 30, the shutter 3C may be slid upward and moved to the second location
by appropriate means (e.g., using a tool or the like) via the insertion hole 32. Alternatively, the
shutter 3C may have inclined surfaces at parts facing the paired insertion holes 30, respectively,
and in this case, the shutter 3C may be slid upward by pressing plug pins of any of the (two-pin
type of) plugs 4A, 4C and 4D against the inclined surfaces.

[0069]
(2.6) Displacement of Pin Receiving Structure
Hereinafter, displacement of the pin receiving structure X1 will be explained mainly
with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5D and 6, in a case where a user connects the plug 4 to the outlet
100, using the paired insertion holes 30. The first spring block 1 5 shown by “A1” in FIG. 6
corresponds to the first spring block 1 (the first state) in FIG. 5A. The first spring block 1 shown
by “A2” in FIG. 6 corresponds to the first spring block 1 (the second state) in FIG. 5D. The first
spring block 1 shown by “A3” in FIG. 6 corresponds to the first spring block 1 (the state where
the first plug pin 40A has been inserted) in FIG. 5B. The first spring block 1 shown by “A4” in
10 FIG. 6 corresponds to the first spring block 1 (the state where the second plug pin 40B has been
inserted) in FIG. 5C.
[0070] As described above, the distance L1 between the paired protrusions 110 is “L11 (e.g.,
2.7 mm)” in the first state before the first pin receiver X11 is plastically deformed (refer to “A1”
in FIG. 6).
[0071] When the user inserts the first plug pins 40A of the first plug 4A into the insertion holes
30, one end of each first plug pin 40A is brought to contact with a front end of the first pin
receiver X11, namely, the front ends of the paired facing parts 11. When the user further presses
the first plug pin 40A against stress received from the paired protrusions 110, the first plug pin
40A are slid on the tips P1 of the paired facing parts 11 while making the paired facing parts 11
elastically deform so as to expand outward in the upward/downward direction. Then, a base
around a root of the first plug pin 40A, of the first plug 4A, comes into contact with the front
face of the cover 3A, before one end of the first plug pin 40A reaches a front face of the
connection part 12. The first plug pin 40A is therefore restricted from further entering the first
pin receiver X11. Thus, the connection of the first plug 4A to the outlet 100 can be achieved. In
the connection state, the distance L1 between the paired protrusions 110 becomes about 4 mm
23
equal to the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A (refer to “A3” in FIG. 6).
[0072] When the user inserts the second plug pins 40B of the second plug 4B into the insertion
holes 30, one end of each second plug pin 40B is brought to contact with the front end of the first
pin receiver X11, namely, the front ends of the paired facing parts 11. When the user further
presses the second plug pin 40B against stress received from the 5 paired protrusions 110, the
second plug pin 40B are slid on the tips P1 of the paired facing parts 11 while making the paired
facing parts 11 elastically deform so as to expand outward in the upward/downward direction.
Then, a base around a root of the second plug pin 40B, of the second plug 4B, comes into contact
with the front face of the cover 3A, before one end of the second plug pin 40B reaches the front
face of the connection part 12. The second plug pin 40B is therefore restricted from further
entering the first pin receiver X11. Thus, the connection of the second plug 4B to the outlet 100
can be achieved. In the connection state, the distance L1 between the paired protrusions 110
becomes about 5 mm equal to the width W2 of the second plug pin 40B (refer to “A4” in FIG. 6).
[0073] Here when the user withdraws the second plug 4B, held by the first pin receiver X11,
from the outlet 100, there is a possibility that the first pin receiver X11 is plastically deformed
and accordingly the distance L1 becomes larger than “L11”. In the present embodiment, the pin
receiving structure X1 is defined such that the distance L1 becomes “L12 (e.g., 3.09 mm)” in the
second state after the first pin receiver X11 is plastically deformed, as described above (refer to
“A2” in FIG. 6). “L12” is smaller than the width W1 of the first plug pin 40A. After inserting and
withdrawing of the second plug 4B is performed even once with respect to the outlet 100, “L12”
is almost constant without depending on the number of times the inserting and withdrawing is
performed. That is, as a result of keen examination, the inventors obtained that when comparing
the distance L1 by first inserting and withdrawing the second plug 4B after manufacturing the
first spring block 1 with the distance L1 after inserting and withdrawing the second plug 4B
many times, they become almost “L12”.

[0074] Thus in the present embodiment, while the auxiliary spring of the outlet disclosed in the
Document 1 mentioned above is not needed, the retention force (withdrawal force) for the target
pin 40 can be maintained even when using the first plug 4A after using the second plug 4B. The
pin receiving structure X1 can therefore reduce the number of components and further enhance
connection reliability with respect to pins (target pins 40) having 5 width dimensions different
from each other. Note that, similarly, the retention force for the target pin 40 can be maintained
even when using the first plug 4A after using the third plug 4C.
[0075] Furthermore in the present embodiment, both of the paired facing parts 11 are
configured to be displaced in a direction of separating from each other by the target pin being
inserted between the paired facing parts 11. Accordingly, the pin receiving structure X1 can
further suppress the plastic deformation of the first pin receiver X11, compared with, for
example, a case that only one of the paired facing parts 11 is displaced. In particular herein, the
paired facing parts 11 are symmetrical at parts on the opposite side (back side) of the tips P1
from the insertion hole 30, when viewed along the rightward/leftward direction (refer to FIG.
A). Accordingly, when the target pin 40 is inserted, both of the paired facing parts 11 can be
displaced to expand with more excellent balance in the upward/downward direction, compared
with a case where they are asymmetrical. The pin receiving structure X1 can therefore further
suppress the distance L1 after the plastic deformation from being equal to or larger than the
width W1 of the first plug pin 40A, compared with a case where only one of the paired facing
parts 11 is unevenly displaced.
[0076] Also herein, since the paired facing parts 11 are integrally coupled with each other by
the connection part 12, the pin receiving structure X1 can provide more stable contact pressure
between the paired facing parts 11. In particular, since the first pin receiver X11 is fixed to the
pillar terminal 5, which is the attachment object T1, via the connection part 12, the contact
pressure between the paired facing parts 11 can be further suppressed from reducing, compared

with, for example, a case where it is fixed to the attachment object T1 via the facing parts 11.
[0077] As described above, the second pin receiver X12 is connected to one of the paired
facing parts 11 (upper facing part 11A) of the first pin receiver X11. Thus, the pin receiving
structure X1 can reduce the number of components and further receive another pin, compared
with a case where the first pin receiver X11 is a member provided separately 5 from the second pin
receiver X12.
[0078] In particular, the second pin receiver X12 is displaced by the target pin 40 being inserted
between the paired facing parts 11. That is, when both of the paired facing parts 11 are deformed
by insertion of the target pin 40, the second pin receiver X12 is also displaced linked with the
displacement of the upper facing part 11A (refer to FIG. 6). From the first spring block 1 shown
by “A1” to “A4” in FIG. 6, it can be easily understood that the second pin receiver X12 is
slightly elastically deformed upward and diagonally backward with making the center portion Y1
of the upper facing part 11A serve as a fulcrum, in accordance with the insertion of the first plug
pin 40A or the second plug pin 40B. Thus, the pin receiving structure X1 can allow the stress
received by the upper facing part 11A from the target pin 40 to escape (transmit) toward the side
of the second pin receiver X12. The plastic deformation of the facing part 11 can be therefore
suppressed.
[0079] Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, the pin receiving structure X1 of the present embodiment
is configured such that the connection part 16 of the second pin receiver X12 is located in front
of the connection part 12 of the first pin receiver X11 in the forward/backward direction. Thus,
the second pin receiver X12 can be more easily displaced linked with the displacement of the
upper facing part 11A.
[0080] Here if the second pin receiver X12 is excessively displaced, the upper facing part 11A
may be plastically deformed. In order to solve it, the second pin receiver X12 is configured such
that a range of displacement thereof by insertion of the target pin 40 is restricted by the first

housing part 36 (housing part). Herein for example, the range of displacement of the second pin
receiver X12 is restricted by an upper wall 365 and a step 366, as a part of peripheral wall that
constitutes the first housing part 36, of the body 3B (refer to FIG. 6). For example, even if the
second plug pin 40B is inserted from the insertion hoe 30 and the second pin receiver X12 is
displaced linked with the displacement of the upper facing part 11A, the 5 upper facing part 15A
comes into contact with a surface of the upper wall 365 and the connection part 16 comes into
contact with a surface of the step 366. Accordingly, the second pin receiver X12 can be
suppressed from being excessively displaced, and the contact pressure to the target pin 40
between the paired facing parts 11 of the first pin receiver X11 can be therefore suppressed from
reducing.
[0081]
(3) Variation
Hereinafter, some variations according to the present disclosure will be explained. In the
following description, the exemplary embodiment described above may be referred to as a “basic
example”. Optionally any of the variations below may be adopted in combination with the above
basic example and/or the other variation as appropriate.
[0082]
(3. 1) First Variation
In the basic example, the paired protrusions 110 of the first pin receiver X11 have the
almost same radiuses of curvature as each other. The present variation (First Variation), as shown
in FIG. 8, is different from the basic example in that a first protrusion 111 that is one of the
paired protrusions 110 has a radius of curvature smaller than a radius of curvature of a second
protrusion 112 that is the other of the paired protrusions 110. In the following description, the
radius of curvature of the first protrusion 111 is referred to as a “first radius of curvature R1”,
and the radius of curvature of the second protrusion 112 is referred to as a “second radius of

curvature R2” (refer to FIG. 8).
[0083] Since the first radius of curvature R1 is smaller than the second radius of curvature R2,
in the manufacturing stage a deviation hardly occurs between the tips P1 of the paired
protrusions 110 in the forward/backward direction even when a part (second pin receiver X12)
connected to the second protrusion 112 is provided for example. Accordingly, 5 upon the insertion
of the target pin 40, the contact pressure between the paired facing parts 11 can be suppressed
from reducing.
[0084] Also in the First Variation, as shown in FIG. 8, the first protrusion 111 has a center of
curvature H1 disposed on an opposite side of a center of curvature H2 of the second protrusion
112 from the insertion hole 30 (that is, the back side of the center of curvature H2). Accordingly,
in the manufacturing stage the deviation can be further suppressed from occurring between the
tips P1 of the paired protrusions 110 in the forward/backward direction.
[0085]
(3. 2) Other Variations
15 In the basic example, the number of the protrusions 110 of each facing part 11 is one,
but may be two or more.
[0086] In the basic example, the second pin receiver X12 is asymmetrical when viewed along
the rightward/leftward direction, but may be symmetrical as well as the first pin receiver X11.
For example, the lower facing part 15B may also have a protrusion 150.
[0087] In the basic example, the housing 3 includes the shutter 3C, but the shutter 3C may be
omitted appropriately.
[0088] In the First Variation, the first radius of curvature R1 is smaller than the second radius of
curvature R2, but the second radius of curvature R2 may be smaller than the first radius of
curvature R1.
[0089]

(4) Resume
As apparent from the foregoing description, a pin receiving structure (X1) according to
a first aspect is configured to selectively receive a target pin (40) that is any of a first plug pin
(40A) with a relatively small width (W1) and a second plug pin (40B, 40C) with a width (W2)
larger than at least the width (W1) of the first plug pin (40A), and inserted 5 from an insertion hole
(30). The pin receiving structure (X1) includes a pin receiver (10) formed of metal like a plate
shape. The pin receiver (10) includes a pair of facing parts (11) facing each other, and is
configured to apply, to the target pin (40), elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts
(11) come closer to each other so as to hold the target pin (40) between the facing parts (11). The
facing parts (11) include a pair of protrusions (110) that are protruded in a direction of coming
closer to each other. At least the protrusions (110) of the facing parts (11) are configured to be in
contact with the target pin (40). The protrusions (110) are configured such that a distance (L1)
therebetween is smaller than the width (W1) of the first plug pin (40A) not only in a first state
before the pin receiver (10) is plastically deformed but also in a second state after the pin
receiver (10) is plastically deformed by the second plug pin (40B, 40C) being received by the pin
receiver (10) and then withdrawn from the pin receiver (10). According to the first aspect, the pin
receiving structure (X1) can reduce the number of components and further enhance connection
reliability with respect to pins having width dimensions different from each other.
[0090] A pin receiving structure (X1) according to a second aspect is configured to selectively
receive a target pin (40) that is any of a first plug pin (40A) with a relatively small width (W1)
and a second plug pin (40B, 40C) with a width (W2) larger than at least the width (W1) of the
first plug pin (40A), and inserted from an insertion hole (30). The pin receiving structure (X1)
includes a pin receiver (10) formed of metal like a plate shape. The pin receiver (10) includes a
pair of facing parts (11) facing each other, and is configured to apply, to the target pin (40),
elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts (11) come closer to each other so as to

hold the target pin (40) between the facing parts (11). The facing parts (11) include a pair of
protrusions (110) that are protruded in a direction of coming closer to each other. At least the
protrusions (110) of the facing parts (11) are configured to be in contact with the target pin (40).
The facing parts (11) are symmetrical at parts on an opposite side of a tip (P1) of at least one of
the protrusions (110) from the insertion hole (30). According to the 5 second aspect, the pin
receiving structure (X1) can reduce the number of components and further enhance connection
reliability with respect to pins having width dimensions different from each other.
[0091] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a third aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the first aspect or the second aspect, at least one of the first
plug pin (40A) or the second plug pin (40B, 40C) is a round pin. According to the third aspect,
the connection reliability with respect to the round pin can be enhanced.
[0092] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a fourth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with any one of the first to third aspects, the pin receiver (10) further
includes a connection part (12) integrally coupling the facing parts (11). According to the fourth
aspect, since the paired facing parts (11) are integrally coupled with each other by the connection
part (12), the pin receiving structure (X1) can provide more stable contact pressure between the
paired facing parts (11).
[0093] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a fifth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the fourth aspect, the pin receiver (10) is fixed to an attachment
object (T1) via the connection part (12). According to the fifth aspect, the contact pressure
between the facing parts (11) can be further suppressed from reducing, compared with, for
example, a case where it is fixed to the attachment object (T1) via the facing parts (11).
[0094] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a sixth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with any one of the first to fifth aspects, both the facing parts (11)
are displaced in a direction separating from each other by the target pin (40) being inserted

between the facing parts (11). According to the sixth aspect, the pin receiving structure (X1) can
further suppress the plastic deformation of the pin receiver (10), compared with, for example, a
case that only one of the paired facing parts (11) is displaced.
[0095] The pin receiving structure (X1) according to a seventh aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with any one of the first to sixth aspects, further 5 includes a second
pin receiver (X12) for receiving another pin, in addition to a first pin receiver (X11) as the pin
receiver (10). The second pin receiver (X12) is connected to any one of the facing parts (11).
According to the seventh aspect, the pin receiving structure (X1) can reduce the number of
components and further receive another pin.
[0096] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to an eighth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the seventh aspect, the second pin receiver (X12) is displaced
by the target pin (40) being inserted between the facing parts (11). According to the eighth aspect,
the plastic deformation of the facing parts (11) can be suppressed.
[0097] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a ninth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the eighth aspect, the second pin receiver (X12) is configured
such that a range of displacement thereof by insertion of the target pin (40) is restricted by a
housing part (first housing 36) that houses at least the second pin receiver (X12). According to
the ninth aspect, the contact pressure to the target pin (40) between the paired facing parts (11)
can be suppressed from reducing.
[0098] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a tenth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with any one of the first to ninth aspects, a first protrusion (111) that
is one of the protrusions (110) has a radius of curvature (first radius of curvature R1) smaller
than a radius of curvature (second radius of curvature R2) of a second protrusion (112) that is the
other of the protrusions (110). According to the tenth aspect, the contact pressure between the
paired facing parts (11) can be suppressed from reducing.

[0099] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to an eleventh aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the tenth aspect, the first protrusion (111) has a center of
curvature (H1) disposed on an opposite side of a center of curvature (H2) of the second
protrusion (112) from the insertion hole (30). According to the eleventh aspect, the pin receiving
structure (X1) can suppress the contact pressure from reducing while 5 making locations of the tips
(P1) of the first protrusion (111) and the second protrusion (112) agree with each other in the
insertion direction of the target pin (40), for example.
[0100] In the pin receiving structure (X1) according to a twelfth aspect, which may be
implemented in conjunction with the first aspect, the facing parts (11) are symmetrical at parts on
an opposite side of a tip (P1) of at least one of the protrusions (110) from the insertion hole (30).
According to the twelfth aspect, the pin receiving structure (X1) can reduce the number of
components and further enhance connection reliability with respect to pins having width
dimensions different from each other.
[0101] An outlet (100) according to a thirteenth aspect includes the pin receiving structure (X1)
of any one of the first to twelfth aspects, and a housing (3) having the insertion hole (30) and
housing the pin receiving structure (X1). According to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to
provide the outlet (100) with the pin receiving structure (X1), which can reduce the number of
components and further enhance connection reliability with respect to pins having width
dimensions different from each other.
[0102] Since the configurations of the third to twelfth aspects are not essential for the pin
receiving structure (X1) of the first or second aspect, any of the configurations may be
appropriately omitted.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0103]

100 Outlet
X1 Pin receiving structure
X11 First pin receiver
X12 Second pin receiver
10 Pin receiver
11 Facing part
110 Protrusion
111 First protrusion
112 Second protrusion
12 Connection part
3 Housing
Insertion hole
36 First housing part (housing part)
40 Target pin
40A First plug pin
40B. 40C Second plug pin
H1 Center of curvature (of the first protrusion)
H2 Center of curvature (of the second protrusion)
L1 Distance (between the protrusions)
P1 Tip
R1 First radius of curvature (radius of curvature)
R2 Second radius of curvature (radius of curvature)
T1 Attachment target
W1 Width (of the first plug pin)
W2 Width (of the second plug pin)

I/We Claim:
1. A pin receiving structure (X1) configured to selectively receive a target pin (40) that is
any of a first plug pin (40A) with a relatively small width (W1) and a second plug pin (40B,
40C) with a width (W2) larger than at least the width (W1) of the first plug pin (40A), and
inserted from 5 an insertion hole (30),
the pin receiving structure (X1) comprising a pin receiver (10) formed of metal like a
plate shape,
the pin receiver (10) including a pair of facing parts (11) facing each other, and being
configured to apply, to the target pin (40), elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts
(11) come closer to each other so as to hold the target pin (40) between the facing parts (11),
the facing parts (11) including a pair of protrusions (110) that are protruded in a
direction of coming closer to each other, at least the protrusions (110) of the facing parts (11)
being configured to be in contact with the target pin (40), and
the protrusions (110) being configured such that a distance (L1) therebetween is smaller
than the width (W1) of the first plug pin (40A) not only in a first state before the pin receiver
(10) is plastically deformed but also in a second state after the pin receiver (10) is plastically
deformed by the second plug pin (40B, 40C) being received by the pin receiver (10) and then
withdrawn from the pin receiver (10).
2. A pin receiving structure (X1) configured to selectively receive a target pin (40) that is
any of a first plug pin (40A) with a relatively small width (W1) and a second plug pin (40B,
40C) with a width (W2) larger than at least the width (W1) of the first plug pin (40A), and
inserted from an insertion hole (30),
the pin receiving structure (X1) comprising a pin receiver (10) formed of metal like a
plate shape,

the pin receiver (10) including a pair of facing parts (11) facing each other, and being
configured to apply, to the target pin (40), elastic force along a direction in which the facing parts
(11) come closer to each other so as to hold the target pin (40) between the facing parts (11),
the facing parts (11) including a pair of protrusions (110) that are protruded in a
direction of coming closer to each other, at least the protrusions (110) of 5 the facing parts (11)
being configured to be in contact with the target pin (40), and
the facing parts (11) being symmetrical at parts on an opposite side of a tip (P1) of at
least one of the protrusions (110) from the insertion hole (30).
3. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the
first plug pin (40A) or the second plug pin (40B, 40C) is a round pin.
4. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pin
receiver (10) further includes a connection part (12) integrally coupling the facing parts (11).

5. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the pin receiver (10) is
fixed to an attachment object (T1) via the connection part (12).
6. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein both
the facing parts (11) are displaced in a direction separating from each other by the target pin (40)
being inserted between the facing parts (11).
7. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, further
comprising a second pin receiver (X12) for receiving another pin, in addition to a first pin
receiver (X11) as the pin receiver (10), wherein

the second pin receiver (X12) is connected to any one of the facing parts (11).
8. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second pin receiver
(X12) is displaced by the target pin (40) being inserted between the facing parts (11).

9. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second pin receiver
(X12) is configured such that a range of displacement thereof by insertion of the target pin (40)
is restricted by a housing part (36) that houses at least the second pin receiver (X12).
10. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in any one of claims 10 1 to 9, wherein a first
protrusion (111) that is one of the protrusions (110) has a radius of curvature (R1) smaller than a
radius of curvature (R2) of a second protrusion (112) that is the other of the protrusions (110).
11. The pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first protrusion
(111) has a center of curvature (H1) disposed on an opposite side of a center of curvature (H2) of
the second protrusion (112) from the insertion hole (30).
12. An outlet (100), comprising:
the pin receiving structure (X1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11; and
a housing (3) having the insertion hole (30) and housing the pin receiving structure
(X1).