Patent Publication Number: US-8540530-B2

Title: Connecting structure and production method

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a connecting structure including a connector, and a method of producing the connecting structure. 
     JP2009-286173A shows a connector (terminal structure) for connecting electronic components electrically. This connector is provided in an electric power steering device and arranged to open to the outside for connection with a cable for conducting electricity. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a connecting structure, and/or production method for producing a connecting structure, adequate for simplifying the structure of a connector. 
     According to one aspect of the invention, the connecting structure comprises a molding member enclosing a boundary portion between a covered segment and an uncovered segment of each of conducting lines. 
     According to another aspect of the present, a production method for forming a connecting structure to connect electronic components electrically, the production method comprises a molding step of filling a first resin material into a first mold and thereby forming a molding member of the first resin material enclosing a boundary portion between a covered segment and an uncovered segment of each of conducting lines. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view showing an electric power steering system in which a connector ( 1 ) according to a first embodiment of the present invention is provided. 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of a signal line L 21  shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2  shows a partial section of the connector ( 1 ). 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view showing a connecting portion between a torque sensor housing  2  (of torque sensor TS) and the connector  1 , as viewed in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of steering shaft SS (an arrow direction δ shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the connecting portion between the torque sensor housing  2  and the connector  1 , as viewed in the axial direction of steering shaft SS. 
         FIG. 5  is a view showing a partial section of the connecting portion of the connector  1 , cut by a flat plane parallel to the axial direction of the steering shaft. 
         FIG. 6  is a partial sectional view of the connector  1  (across a line I-I in  FIG. 7 ). 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of the connector  1  as viewed from the x axis negative side or from the signal line L 21  side. 
         FIG. 8  is a partial sectional view showing a first molding member  30 . 
         FIG. 9  is a front view of a first mold  4  (before a jig  5  is installed). 
         FIG. 10  is a front view of the first mold  4  (after the jig  5  is installed). 
         FIG. 11  is a partial sectional view showing a second mold  6  in the state in which the first molding member  30  is placed. 
         FIG. 12  is a front view of the second mold  6  in the state in which the first molding member  30  is placed (a cross section across a line II-II in  FIG. 11 ). 
         FIG. 13  is a view for showing a parting plane a of the second mold  6 . 
         FIG. 14  is a front view showing the connector of a variation, as viewed from the x negative side or from the signal line L 21  side. 
         FIG. 15  is a front view showing the connector  1  according to a second embodiment, as viewed from the x negative side or from the signal line L 21  side. 
         FIG. 16  is a partial sectional view showing the connector according to a third embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  is a partial sectional view showing the connector according to a fourth embodiment, around one of the covered wires. 
         FIG. 18  is a partial sectional view showing the connector according to a fifth embodiment. 
         FIG. 19  is a front view showing the connector  1  according to the fifth embodiment, as viewed from the x negative side or from the signal line L 21  side, and showing a parting plane γ of a mold for a sealing member  32 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The following is explanation on embodiments implementing the connector and its production method, with reference to the drawings. 
     First Embodiment 
     [Construction] A connector  1  according to a first embodiment is designed to be provided in an electric power steering apparatus (hereinafter referred to as PS system) for a motor vehicle, though the present invention is applicable to connectors and production methods for various apparatuses other than the PS system, including an apparatus not for a vehicle.  FIG. 1  shows the PS system in which the connector  1  is provided. The PS system of  FIG. 1  includes a gear unit GU (power steering gear assembly) as an actuator, and a control unit ECU as a controlling means or controller. The connector  1  is provided in gear unit GU and arranged to connect the inside and the outside of gear unit GU electrically. 
     Gear unit GU includes an electric motor M, a speed reduction mechanism including a worm gear WG, and a torque sensor TS serving as steering torque sensing means. A driving force of motor M is transmitted through worm gear WG to a rack R, to impart a steering assist force to steerable wheels of the vehicle. The output shaft of motor M is provided with a resolver serving as a motor rotational position sensing means. Torque sensor TS senses a driver&#39;s steering torque inputted to a steering wheel, in the form of a torsion of a steering shaft SS. The torque sensor TS as a first electronic component is enclosed in a torque sensor housing  2  having a shape similar to a rectangular parallelepiped attached to steering shaft SS. The control unit ECU as a second electronic component is provided with a plurality of connectors C 1 ˜C 4  (male portions of the connectors). The connectors C 1 ˜C 4  are connected, respectively, with cables L 1 ˜L 4  (female portions of the connectors). With the connectors C 1 ˜C 4  and cables L 1 ˜L 4 , the control unit ECU is connected electrically with a plurality of devices. 
     Connector C 1  is a source connector connected through power line L 1  with a power source BAT. Control unit ECU receives the supply of electric power thorough power line L 1  from power source BAT. Connector C 2  is a signal connector connected with a device in a passenger compartment through a CAN communication line, and further connected with torque sensor TS through a signal line L 2 . The CAN communication line is a bidirectional communication line for transmitting a signal (such as an on/off signal of an ignition key) from the passenger compartment to control unit ECU, and transmitting a signal from control unit ECU to the to passenger compartment. Signal line L 2  transmits a torque signal produced by torque sensor TS to control unit ECU. Signal line L 2  includes signal lines L 21  and L 22  which are connected with each other by a connector C 5 . 
     Connector C 3  is a source connector connected through a power line L 3  with motor M. Power line L 3  supplies driving power from control unit ECU to motor M. Connector C 4  is a signal connector connected with the resolver through a signal line L 4 . Signal line L 4  transmits a motor rotational position signal produced by the resolver to control unit ECU. Each of connectors C 1 ˜C 5  has a structure of a known type and includes two sockets (male portion and female portion) which can be fit together for connection. Control unit ECU calculates a desired target assist force in accordance with the sensed steering toque and/or other input information, and controls the motor M by producing a motor drive signal to drive motor M in accordance with the target steering assist force and an input signal such as an input signal of the motor rotation position. 
       FIG. 2  is a plan view of the signal line L 21 , and shows a partial section of the connector  1 . Signal line L 21  includes a first end (right end in  FIG. 2 ) provided with connector C 5  (female portion of connector C 5 ) for connection with control unit ECU (through signal line L 22 ), and a second end (left end) provided with connector  1  for connection to torque sensor TS. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the connector  1  is thinner (in the longitudinal direction of signal line L 21 ) than connector C 5 . A dimension of connector  1  in the direction in which the signal line L 21  extends is smaller than a dimension of connector C 5 . Signal line L 21  is a harness including therein a plurality of covered wires. In this example, this harness includes five covered wires  10   a ,  10   b ,  10   c ,  10   d  and  10   e . The number of the covered wires is not limited to five, and the number can be determined freely according to the need. Each covered wire  10  includes a conductive wire or wire conductor covered with an insulating covering (or insulating covering layer). In this example, the insulating material of the covering layer is polyethylene material such as flame resistant polyethylene formed by adding flame retardant to polyethylene. The signal line L 21  is formed by putting these covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  together in an insulating tube TB. In the second (left) end portion of signal L 21  near connector  1 , the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are not covered by tube TB, but bared so that the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  can be ramified. 
     Each of the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  extends to a forward end portion which includes a covered portion A in which the wire conductor is covered with the insulating covering and an uncovered portion B in which the wire conductor is not covered by the insulating covering in an uncovered region (cf.  FIG. 6 ). The uncovered portion of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  is connected with a conductive member (terminal) or lead conductor  11   a ,  11   b ,  11   c ,  11   d  or  11   e  not covered with insulator. Conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  project from a first (left) side of connector  1  in a first (leftward) direction whereas the covered portions (A) of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  project from a second (right) side of connector  1  in a second (rightward) direction opposite to the first direction. 
     Accordingly, each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  is connected with a corresponding one of conductive members (lead conductors)  11   a ˜ 11   e  so as to form a single continuous conducting line including a forward (left) end portion including a covered segment A in which the wire conductor is covered with the insulating covering, and an uncovered or bared segment B in which the conductor formed by the wire conductor and lead conductor ( 11 ) is not covered by the insulating covering. Connector  1  (a molding unit  3 , as mentioned later) includes an abutment surface  31   c  on the uncovered (first) side of connector  1  (left side as viewed in  FIG. 2 ), and a plurality of pins  31   a ,  31   b  serving as an engaging portion. The abutment surface  31   c  is a flat surface which is substantially flat, and faces in the first (leftward) direction in which the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  of the uncovered segments B project. The pins  31   a ,  31   b  project from the abutment surface  31   c  in the first (leftward) direction in which the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  project. In this example, there are provided two of the pins  31   a  and  31   b . Each of the pins  31   a  and  31   b  is a locate pin having a tapered tip end. 
       FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  show a connecting portion between the torque sensor housing  2  (of torque sensor TS) and the connector  1 .  FIG. 3  shows the connecting portion as viewed in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of steering shaft SS (an arrow direction δ shown in  FIG. 4 ).  FIG. 4  is a top view of the connecting portion as viewed in the axial direction of steering shaft SS.  FIG. 4  shows a partial section of torque sensor housing  2  cut by a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of steering shaft SS, and a partial section of connector  1 . Torque sensor housing  2  (hereinafter referred to as housing  2 ) is made of metallic material such as aluminum type metallic material, and includes a shaft receiving portion  20  shaped like a hollow cylinder and arranged to receive steering shaft SS (torsion bar) and a substrate receiving portion  21  shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped and arranged to receive a substrate  200 . The substrate  200  is formed with a control circuit to control the impedance of torque sensor TS. Housing  2  further includes a connector mount portion  22  in the form of a flat plane extending in the radial direction of steering shaft SS. The connector mount portion  22  is formed in a connecting portion between the shaft receiving portion  20  and substrate receiving portion  21 . 
     The connector mount portion  22  is formed with a through hole  220  opened through from the inside to the outside of housing  2 , and arranged to receive the connector  1  (first molding member  30  as a wire receiving portion of connector  1 ) so that the connector  1  is inserted through the through hole  220 . Moreover, connector mount portion  22  is formed with engagement holes (depressions) to engage with pins  31   a  and  31   b  of connector  1 , and bolt holes each to receive a bolt b screwed into the bolt hole to join the connector  1  to housing  2 . A groove  318  is formed in the abutment surface  31   c  on an x positive side. The groove  318  is an annular groove surrounding the through hole  220 . The annular groove  318  is a seal groove to receive an O ring S as a seal member. 
     The abutment surface  31   c  of connector  1  is adapted to abut on the connector mount portion  22  (in the manner of a face to face contact) when connector  1  is connected with housing  2 . The pins  31   a  and  31   b  of connector  1  are fit in the engagement holes in the connector mount portion  22 , respectively, so that connector  1  is engaged with connector mount portion  22  (housing  2 ). Moreover, the connector  1  is fastened to connector mount portion  22  (of housing  2 ) by a plurality of bolts b (two of the bolts b in the illustrated example). As shown in  FIG. 4 , in the state in which the connector  1  is installed in housing  2 , a plurality of uncovered segments B project from the wire receiving portion (first molding member  30 ) in housing  2 . Each of these uncovered segment B is bent and connected, as a connecting terminal, with the substrate  200  installed in substrate receiving portion  21 . The dimension of first molding member  30  projecting from abutment surface  31   c  may be greater than the thickness of housing  2  (connector mount portion  22 ) or may be smaller than the thickness of housing  2  (connector mount portion  22 ). 
       FIG. 5  shows a partial section of the connecting portion of connector  1 , cut by a flat plane parallel to the axial direction of the steering shaft SS. In  FIG. 5 , the engaging portion ( 31   a  and  31   b ) and bolts b are omitted for simplicity. The following explanation uses an orthogonal coordinate system. An x axis extends in the direction in which signal line L 21  extends (the longitudinal direction of covered wires  10 ). An x axis positive direction (or x positive direction) extends from a main portion of signal line L 21  (the covered region A) to a forward end (the uncovered region B). A y axis extends in a direction in which the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are arranged, as shown in  FIG. 5 . A y axis positive direction (or y positive direction) extends from the position of covered wire  10   e  toward the position of covered wire  10   a . A z axis is perpendicular to an x-y plane. A z axis positive direction (z positive direction) is a direction from the upper (front) side of the paper of  FIG. 5  to the lower (back) side. Like  FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 6  is a partial sectional view of the connector  1  (substantially corresponding to a sectional view taken across a line I-I in  FIG. 7 ).  FIG. 6  shows an internal structure by broken lines inside the connector  1  (first molding member  30 ). A bolt through hole  319  is omitted in the figure.  FIG. 7  is a front view of the connector  1  as viewed from the x axis negative side (or x negative side). 
     Connector  1  includes a wiring section (covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , and the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) and a holding section which, in this example, includes the molding unit  3 . Molding unit  3  is a resin member including therein, and holding, (parts of) the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and (parts of) the uncovered segments B. Molding unit  3  of this example is a molding assembly including a first molding member  30  and a second molding member  31  (holding member). 
     First molding member  30  is a wire receiving portion or wire gripping portion for receiving and enclosing a boundary portion between the uncovered segment B and the covered segment A of each covered wire  10 . First molding member  30  is made of a first resin material. In this example, the first resin material is a resin material which does not adhere to the insulator. The first resin material may be a polyester resin superior in moldability (or formability), heat resistance, electric properties (insulating properties), and mechanical properties (rigidity). Preferably, the first resin material of first molding member  30  is PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) resin. 
     First molding member  30  has a shape like a rectangular parallelepiped which is approximately square when viewed from the z axis direction. The dimension in the z axis direction of first molding member  30  is smaller than the x axis dimension and smaller than the y axis dimension, so that the shape of first molding member  30  resembles a flattened rectangular parallelepiped. The covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are arranged at equal intervals in a line along the y axis at a middle in the z axis direction inside first molding member  30  (as best shown in  FIG. 7 ). The covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  extend straight in the x axis direction inside first molding member  30 . The uncovered portion B of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  is connected with one of conductive members  11  ( 11   a ˜ 11   e ) as the uncovered segment B. There are provided a plurality of the conductive members (lead conductors)  11   a ˜ 11   e . The number of conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  is equal to the number of covered wires  10  ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ). In this example, the number is five. 
     Each conductive member  11  is a conductor bared entirely without being covered with insulating material. Each conductive member  11  includes a main portion  110  extending like a line, and a base portion  111  provided at an axis negative side end of the main portion  110  and shaped to have a width in the y axis direction greater than the width of the main portion  110 . The base portion  111  is longer, in the dimension in the x axis direction, than the uncovered portion B of each of the covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e , and shorter, in the dimension in the x axis direction, than first molding member  30 . The base portion  111  of each conductive member  11  and the uncovered portion B of a corresponding one of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are buried and fixed in first molding member  30  in the state in which the base portion  111  and the uncovered portion B of the cover wire are overlapped as viewed from the z axis direction and contacted with each other (in this example, the uncovered portion B of the covered wire is received in the base portion  111  of the conductive member  11 ). First molding member  30  is formed by molding so that the uncovered segments B (main portions  110  of the conductive members  11 ) projects from one side (the x positive side or first side), and the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  project from the other side (the x negative side or second side). In other words, the uncovered portion B of each covered wire  10  is extended by connecting the connecting member  11 , and the extended uncovered portion B projects in the x positive direction (first direction) from the x positive side end surface of the first molding member  30 . 
     Second molding member  31  is made of a second resin material (which may be the same as the first resin material or may be different from the first resin material), and formed in the form of an integral unit with first molding member  30 , to retain first molding member  30 . As the second resin material of second molding member  3 , it is possible to use the PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) resin like the first resin material. It is preferable to employ, as the second resin material, a resin having properties suitable to achieve later-mentioned operations and functions of the second resin material, and to improve the moldability. Second molding member  31  includes a wall portion  310  and a connecting portion or base portion  311 . The wall portion  310  is a tubular portion or annular portion surrounding the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  on the x negative side (second side) of second molding member  31 . Wall portion  310  surrounds the first molding member  30 , has a shape like a rectangle as viewed from the x negative side, and extends in the x axis direction so as to form the shape of a rectangular column. Wall portion  310  includes two laterally extending segments extending in the y axis direction and spaced from each other in the z axis direction, and two normally extending segments extending in the z axis direction between the laterally extending segments so as to form a rectangular closed shape. The wall thickness of the laterally extending segments is greater than the wall thickness of the normally extending segments, as shown in  FIG. 7 . Wall portion  310  surrounds the first molding member  30  with a clearance (or annular space) surrounding the outside circumference of first molding member  30  entirely, and separating the outside circumference of first molding member  30  from wall portion  310  (in the y axis direction and the z axis direction). As shown in  FIG. 6 , the wall portion  310  of second molding member  31  projects in the x (axis) negative direction beyond an end surface  300  of first molding member  30  on the x (axis) negative side. The end surface  300  of first molding member  30  is a surface from which the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  project. 
     The connecting portion or base portion  311  of second molding member  31  is formed on the x positive side of wall portion  310  (the side on which the uncovered segments B are located with respect to the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e ). Connecting portion  311  is designed to connect the wall portion  310  of second molding member  31  and the first molding member  30  liquid-tightly. Connecting portion  311  includes a main portion or central portion  312  and a flange portion  313 . Main portion  312  has an outside circumference substantially identical to the outside circumference of wall portion  310  as viewed from the x axis direction. Main portion  312  includes an engagement hole  314  in which the first molding member  30  is fit, so that the connecting or base portion  311  fits over the first molding member  30 . Engagement hole  314  extends in the x axis direction through second molding member  31 . 
     Second molding member  31  (main portion  312 ) includes an end surface (or inner end surface)  315  on the x (axis) negative side. The end surface  315  is recessed in the x (axis) positive direction from the position of end surface  300  of first molding member  30 . Accordingly, the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  projects in the x negative direction beyond the end surface  315  of second molding member  31 . Second molding member  31  (main portion  312  and wall portion  310 ) forms an adhesive receiving portion for receiving an adhesive  32 . The adhesive receiving portion is in the form of a depression  316  for retaining the adhesive  32  like a bathtub. The depression  316  as the adhesive receiving portion is defined by the end wall  315  of the main portion  312  on the x negative side (serving as a bottom of depression  316 ), the inside circumferential surface of wall portion  310  and the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  on the x negative side. 
     The connecting portion or base portion  311  of second molding member  31  of this example includes two of the connecting flange portions  313  projecting from the main portion  312 , respectively, in the y positive direction and the y negative direction as shown in  FIG. 7 , at the end portion on the x axis positive side of the main portion  312 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , each of flange portions  313  on the y positive and y negative sides has a semicircular shape as viewed in the x axis direction, and includes a bolt through hole  319  extending in the x axis direction through the flange portion  313 , and a corresponding one of the pins  31   a  and  31   b  projecting from the surface ( 31   c ) on the x positive side, as shown in  FIG. 6 . Pin  31   a  is located on the z positive side of the bolt through hole  319 . Pin  31   b  is located on the z negative side of the bolt through hole  319 . In the illustrated example, the surfaces on the x positive side of flange portions  313  and the surface of the x positive side of main portion  312  are substantially flush with one another and form the abutment surface  31   c . However, it is optional to employ the arrangement in which the surfaces on the x positive side of flange portions  313  and the surface of the x positive side of main portion  312  are not flush with one another. 
     The dimension of main portion  312  in the x axis direction is greater than the dimension of flange portions  313  in the x axis direction, so that the main portion  312  has a wall thickness in the x axis direction greater than the wall thickness of flange portions  313 . The end surface  315  of main portion  312  on the x negative side is located on the x negative side of end surfaces  317  of flange portions  313  on the x negative side. The seal groove  318  is formed in the surface of connecting portion  311  on the x axis positive side (abutment surface  31   c ), and depressed to a predetermined depth in the x axis direction. The seal groove  318  surrounds the engagement hole  314 , on the radial inner side of the pins  31   a  and  31   b . The seal groove  318  is located at such position that seal groove  318  overlaps the wall portion  310  in the z axis direction (in which the wall portion  310  extends) (as viewed from the x axis direction). Similarly, the seal groove  318  is located at such position that seal groove  318  overlaps the wall portion  310  in the y axis direction (in which the wall portion  310  extends) (as viewed from the x axis direction). 
     Adhesive  32  forms a seal member provided in second molding member  31 . Adhesive  32  is filled in depression  316  formed in second molding member  31 . As adhesive  32 , it is possible to use a flexible resin. In this example, flexible silicone resin is used as adhesive  32 . The (inner) end surface  315  of main portion  312  of second molding member  31  on the x negative side and the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  on the x negative side are buried under the adhesive  32 . The covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are buried under adhesive  32  to a predetermined depth. Adhesive  32  adheres to the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  on the x negative side and adheres to the outer circumferential surface of the insulating covering of the covered segment of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e.    
     [Production Method] 
     A production method of producing the connector  1  includes at least first, second and third steps.  FIG. 8  is a partial sectional view showing the first molding member  30  formed by molding in the first step, cut by a plane perpendicular to the z axis direction.  FIGS. 9 and 10  are front views showing a first mold  4  as viewed from the x direction together with a jig used in the first step.  FIG. 11  is a partial sectional view showing a second mold  6 , cut by a plane perpendicular to the z direction, in the second step for forming the second molding member  31  by molding, in the state in which the first molding member  30  is positioned.  FIG. 12  is a front view showing an x negative side portion  62  of the second mold  6  as viewed from the x positive side (corresponding to a cross section across a line II-II in  FIG. 11 ). In  FIG. 11 , portions of the mold corresponding to pins  31   a  and  31   b  and through hole  319  are omitted. 
     The first step is a step (first molding step) of forming the first molding member  30  gripping or holding the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (and conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) by using a first mold  4 . The first step includes an operation of filling the first resin material of the first molding member  30 , in the first mold  4 , and an operation of releasing the molded product from the mold after coagulation, hardening or solidification of the first resin material. The first resin material becomes solid or hard after the molding operation and retains the solid or hard state to form the first molding member  30  and fix the positions of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  relative to each other, as explained more in detail below. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , the uncovered portion B of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  is connected with one of the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  (so as to form the uncovered segment consisting of the uncovered portion of the covered wire and the conductive member). In the first step, the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  are connected together by a connecting portion or cross portion  11 B extending laterally (in the y axis direction)(on the x positive side of the main portions  110 ) so that the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  are connected as a single unit (referred to as a connected conductive member  11 A hereinafter). The uncovered portions  10 B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are overlapped, respectively, with base portions  111  of the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  of the connected conductive member  11 A. Then, the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and connected conductive member  11 A are placed in a first mold  4  in the state in which the overlapped portions (the base portion  111  and the covered portion  10 B are contacted with each other for each of the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e ) are included in the first mold  4 . In this case, as shown in  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10 , each of pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  of jig  5  is inserted between adjacent two of the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (the uncovered portions  10 B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e ). Jig  5  includes a holder portion  50  and a plurality of pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  (four pins in the illustrated example) projecting integrally from holder portion  50 . Jig  5  is a jig for positioning or determining positions of parts. As shown in  FIG. 10 , from the upper surface of first mold  4  (from the z positive side), the pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  are inserted in the z direction into mold  4 . Pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  are positioned among conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  of connected conductive member  11 A (the base portions  111  of conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) so that one of pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  is interposed between adjacent two of covered wires (the uncovered portions B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e ). Accordingly, the pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  and (the uncovered portions B of) the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are arranged alternately as shown in  FIG. 10 . Thus, the pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  regulate or determine the relative positions of (uncovered portions B of) the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  relative to each other. 
     In this state, the first resin material is poured into first mold  4 , and the first molding member  30  is formed by molding. Thereafter, jig  5  (with pins  5   a ˜ 5   d ) are extracted. The first molding member  30  thus formed by removing pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  includes a plurality of holes  30   a ˜ 30   d  (four holes in this example), as shown in  FIG. 8 . The first molding member  30  formed by the first step holds firmly the conductive members  11   a ˜ 1   e  connected, respectively, with the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are connected together by the connecting portion  11 B in the form of connected conductive member  11 A. After the first step, the connecting portion  11 B is cut and removed to separate and insulate the conductive members (connection terminals)  11   a ˜ 11   e  from one another. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the first molding member  30  is formed by molding to have at least one rib or projection  301  at a predetermined position in a region surrounding by second molding member  31  (predetermined position in the x direction, see  FIG. 11 ). In the illustrated example, the rib  301  has a triangular cross section as shown in  FIG. 8 , and includes a pointed top. 
     The second step is a step (second molding step) of forming the second molding member  31  firmly enclosing first molding member  30 , by using a second mold  6 . The second step includes an operation of filling the second resin material that is the material of second molding member  31 , in the second mold  6  in the state in which first molding member  30  is placed in second mold  6 , and an operation of demolding the second mold  6  after coagulation, hardening or solidification of the second resin material. After the second step, the second resin material retains the shape in the solid state, and thereby forms the second molding member  31  holding the first molding member  30  firmly. It is possible to form the pins  31   a  and  31   b , bolt through holes  319  and seal groove  318  simultaneously, with the second mold  6 . Alternatively, it is possible to form the pins  31   a  and  31   b , bolt through holes  319  and seal groove  318  after the second step. Second molding member  31  is formed by insert molding. As shown in  FIG. 11 , second molding member  31  is molded by the insert molding process in the state in which the first molding member  30  (with covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) is placed in the second mold  6 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the second mold  6  includes gates  60  connecting the inside of the mold with the outside. In the illustrate example, two gates  60  are formed on the z positive side of second mold  6 , one on the y positive side and the other on the y negative side. Gates  60  are holes used for pouring the high-temperature molten second resin into the second mold  6 . In the state in which first molding member  30  is set in the second mold  6 , the rib  301  is positioned adjacent to one of gates  60 . In this example, the rib  301  is formed adjacent to each of gates  60 . Rib  301  is positioned on an extension line of one of gates  60  (on the z negative side). The position in the x direction and the position in the y direction of each gate  60  are approximately overlapped with the position in the x direction and the position in the y direction of rib  301 . 
     Second mold  6  includes a first part  61  on the x positive side and a second part  62  on the x negative side. After the formation of second molding member  31 , the second mold  6  is divided into the two parts  61  and  62  on both sides of a parting plane α, as shown by arrows in  FIG. 13 . The parting plane α of second mold  6  is located on the x negative side of the abutment surface  31   c  of second molding member  31 . Second molding member  31  is formed so that the parting plane α is positioned on the x negative side of abutment surface  31   c . In this example, the parting plane α is located substantially at a middle of connection flange portion  313  in the x direction. After separation from the first part  61  on the x positive side, the second part  62  on the x negative side is divided into a first portion  62   a  on the y positive side and a second portion  62   b  on the y negative side on both sides of a parting plane β shown in  FIG. 12 . 
     The third step is a step of filling adhesive  32  in the second molding member  31  (in the depression  316  of second molding member  31 ). Adhesive  32  has a flowability at least at the time of filling adhesive  32  into second molding member  31  (depression  316 ). Adhesive  32  is filled to a position on the x negative side of the end (end surface  300 ) of first molding member  30  on the x negative side and is adhered to the outside circumference of the insulating covering of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e.    
     [Operations in the First Embodiment] 
     A connector (terminal structure) is used for connecting electronic devices electrically. The connector is connected with cables for connecting the electronic devices. In general, the cables are in the form of wires covered with an insulating material impermeable to water. Each of the covered wires (cables) has an uncovered portion or bared wire portion (connection terminal) in the connector, for electrical connection. The connector employs various waterproof structure to prevent water from reaching the uncovered portion and thereby to prevent corrosion. On the other hand, there are demand for simplifying the connector and restraining a size increase due to the waterproof structure. Accordingly, it is preferable to simplify the structure of the connector and maintaining the waterproof characteristic (sealing characteristic). One example is a resin connector attached integrally to an aluminum housing of an electric power steering of a type combining electronics and mechanics. In this connector, a cable (for signal line and power supply line) is connected through a hole opening to the outside. This connector has a fitting structure of two socket members (male portion and female portion) provided with waterproof structure. Therefore, it is difficult to reduce the size, and to improve the flexibility of layout of the electric power steering apparatus. 
     By contrast, the connector (terminal structure)  1  according to this embodiment, the first molding member  30  of waterproof material holds the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  firmly and the boundary portion between the covered segment and uncovered segment of each covered wire is buried in the first resin material of first molding member  30 . The uncovered portions B of conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  connected, respectively, with the uncovered portions B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  project from a first side (x positive side) of first molding member  30 , and the covered segments A project from a second side (x negative side) of first molding member  30  opposite to the first side. Therefore, it is possible to provide a reliable waterproof structure by setting the first side (the x positive side) of first molding member  30  in an electronic component (housing  2 ) and setting the second side in the outside of the electronic component (housing  2 ). This structure corresponds to the structure in which one socket is omitted from the structure including two sockets (female portion and male portion) fitted together and a sealing structure provided at either or both of the sockets. Accordingly, the structure of this embodiment is simple in the construction without the need for providing two of the sockets, so that it is possible to simplify the construction of the connector without sacrificing the sealing properties. Moreover, with the size reduction of connector  1 , it is possible to improve the flexibility of layout of apparatus PS (gear unit GU) provided with the connector  1  in the vehicle. In the illustrated example, control unit ECU and gear unit GU are two separate units connected by lines such as signal line L 2 . However, it is optional to unite control unit ECU and gear unit GU into a single unit. In this case, it is possible to connect control unit ECU and torque sensor TS directly, and use the connector of this embodiment as a connector for connecting the control unit ECU with an external device. It is possible to employ the structure in which the covered segments A (the boundary portions between the covered segments and uncovered segments) are not included in first molding member  30 . In this case, the boundary portions between the covered segments A and uncovered segments B are buried in the adhesive  32  to secure the waterproofness of the uncovered portions B. 
     First molding member  30  is made of a resin material. By employing the resin material superior in waterproof performance and properties for holding the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  firmly, it is possible to enhance the above-mentioned effects. However, the material of first molding member  30  is not limited to resins as long as the waterproof characteristic and the properties for holding covered wires  10   as ˜ 10   e  are ensured sufficiently. The first molding member  30  of resin material formed by molding is effective for facilitating the production process. First molding member  30  in the solid or hard state after the molding operation can fix the positions of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  relative to one another. Therefore, it is possible to position the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and conductive member  11   a ˜ 11   e  readily without the need for means for positioning or regulating positions, and to simplify the construction of connector  1 . As long as the positions are regulated to such an extent that the uncovered segments of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) are not contacted with one another, it is optional to use the first molding member  30  which does not become completely solid or hard after the molding operation. In this case, it is possible to employ a position regulating means for preventing contact. 
     First molding member  30  according to the first embodiment includes holes  30   a ˜ 30   d  formed by pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  of jig  5  for regulating the relative positions of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  only during the molding operation of first molding member  30 . This feature can improve the relative position accuracy of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , and prevent contact among the uncovered segments B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  reliably. In this case, the uncovered segments B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  might be bared in the holes  30   a ˜ 30   e  of first molding member  30 . However, in this embodiment, second molding member  31  is formed around first molding member  30  and the holes  30   a ˜ 30   d  are closed by second molding member  31 . Therefore, this structure does not deteriorate the waterproof performance. In the illustrated example, the pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  are inserted among the uncovered segments B of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . However, it is possible to insert the pins  5   a ˜ 5   d  among the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . This structure can prevent the uncovered segments  10 B from being bared in the holes  30   a ˜ 30   d , and restrain contact among the uncovered segments  10 B more or less. 
     In the first step of the production method, the first molding member  30  is formed in the state in which conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  are connected by connecting portion  11 B as an integral member. This structure facilitates the positioning of conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  relative to one another, and makes it possible to improve the relative position accuracy of conductive members (terminals)  11   a ˜ 11   e  to facilitate the operation of connecting the connector  1  with a component (such as substrate  200 ) of an electronic component (torque sensor TS). The connecting portion  11 B is cut off to separate and insulate the conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  from one another after the first step. After the first step, the first molding member  30  is in the solid or hard state and the positions of conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e  are fixed by first molding member  30 . By cutting the connecting portion  11 B in this state, it is possible to secure the relative position accuracy among conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e.    
     In this example, the first resin material of first molding member  30  is a resin which does not adhere to an insulating material. Therefore, the adhesion between the first molding member  30  and the first mold  4  is restrained in the first step. Therefore, a product (first molding member  30 ) can be removed readily from first mold  4 , and the production efficiency is improved. When a resin material not adhesive to the insulating material is employed as the first resin material of first molding member  30 , the adhesion of first molding member  30  with the insulating covering layers of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  is restrained. Therefore, when covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are subjected to forces bending or pulling the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  from the signal line L 21  or subjected to a severe temperature condition, there may be formed clearances between the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and the first molding member  30  and hence these clearances require sealing to secure the waterproof performance. In the first embodiment, the clearances are covered or closed by adhesive  32  serving as sealant. Adhesive  32  is provided to seal the end portion of first molding member  30  (the end surface  300  in which these clearances open) from which the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  project in the x negative direction, and the outside circumferences of insulating coverings of covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . Adhesive  32  is filled to a predetermined thickness from the end surface  300  of first molding member  30 , and adhesive  32  envelopes the outside circumference surface of the covered segment A of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  contiguously. The covered segment A of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  is buried in the adhesive  32 . Therefore, the adhesive  32  prevents water from entering the region of uncovered is segments B from the clearances around the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , and improves the waterproof performance. The material of first molding member  30  may be a material not adhesive to the first mold  4  to some degree to ensure the property to remove the produced molding member  30  from first mold  4 . The material of first molding member  30  need not be a material strictly nonadherent to the insulating material. In other words, the material of first molding member  30  may have adherence of a certain degree. If the adherence is ensured between first molding member  30  and covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , it is possible to omit the adhesive  32  and the structure (such as the depression  316 ) for retaining adhesive  32 . Furthermore, it is not necessary to fill the adhesive  32  entirely in the depression  316 . The adhesive  32  is required to adhere to the end surface (surface  315 ) of first molding member  30  on the x negative side, and to adhere to the outside circumferences of insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  to prevent entry of water from the surrounding of each covered wire to the inside of first molding member  30  (including the uncovered segments B). Adhesive  32  may be applied only to one or more portions of the x negative side surface ( 300 ). It is possible to form one or more adhesive regions required for sealing the open end of the clearances in the end surface  300  without covering the end surface  300  entirely. In this case, too, the connecting structure of this embodiment can improve the above-mentioned effects. 
     As the material of adhesive  32 , this example employs silicone resin which is high in adhesiveness to the insulating material of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . Specifically, soft silicone resin (or flexible silicone resin) is used, and the sealing member formed by adhesive  32  is elastic. Therefore, the sealing member of adhesive  32  is pliable to a bending force, for example. The sealing member of adhesive  32  can be bent in conformity with a bending deformation of the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . Therefore, the adhesive  32  lowers the possibility of generation of a clearance between adhesive  32  and covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (the insulating material), and improves the waterproofness. Instead of soft resin, it is optional to use, as adhesive  32 , hard resin such as hard epoxy resin. In the case of the hard resin, the sealing member formed by the adhesive of the hard resin ensures the adherence to the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  like the soft resin, and improves the durability by providing a strong support structure with the rigidity of adhesive  32  for supporting the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  against load applied to the adhesive by bending motion and inclination of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e.    
     Materials usable in this embodiment have following values of the linear expansion coefficient. The linear expansion coefficient of soft silicone resin is 63×10-6, and the linear expansion coefficient of hard epoxy resin is 177×10-6. On the other hand, the linear expansion coefficient of PBT resin used as the materials of first and second molding members  30  and  31  is 75×10-6, and the linear expansion coefficient of fire retardant polyethylene of the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  is 180×10-6. The soft silicone resin is closer in the linear expansion coefficient to PBT resin as compared with the hard epoxy resin. Therefore, the structure using the soft silicone resin as adhesive  32  can prevent detachment of adhesive  32  from first and second molding member  30  and  31  due to temperature changes, and improve the waterproofness by preventing generation of a clearance between adhesive  32  and first and second molding members  30  and  31  (depression  316 ). On the other hand, the materials usable in this embodiment have following values of strength (tensile strength). For example, the strength of soft silicone resin is 0.2 MPa, and the strength of hard epoxy resin is 82.7 MPa. On the other hand, the strength of PBT resin used as the materials of first and second molding members  30  and  31  is 118 MPa, and the strength of fire retardant polyethylene is 10 MPa. Thus, the soft silicone resin is lower in tensile strength than the fire retardant polyethylene whereas the hard epoxy resin is higher in tensile strength than the fire retardant polyethylene. Therefore, the structure using the hard epoxy resin as adhesive  32  can prevent breakage of the adhesive  32  against load applied to adhesive  32  by bending motion and inclination of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , prevent generation of clearance (crack) inside the adhesive  32 , and improve the durability and waterproofness. Therefore, from the viewpoint of prevention of clearance between adhesive  32  and the first and second molding members  30  and  31  due to temperature changes, prevention of crack in adhesive due to load, and improvement of waterproofness and durability, it is preferable to employ, as the adhesive  32 , a material having a linear expansion coefficient close to that of the material or materials of first and second molding members  30  and  31  (for example, the linear expansion coefficient of adhesive  32  is about 75×10-6), and having a tensile strength equal to or greater than that of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (insulating covering) (for example, the tensile strength of adhesive  32  is greater than or equal to 10 MPa). 
     First molding member  30  is provided with second molding member  31  serving as a receiving member or holding member for receiving the adhesive  32 . That is, second molding member  31  includes the annular wall portion  310  projecting in the x negative direction beyond the x negative side end surface ( 300 ) of first molding member  30  and surrounding the group of covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . Thus, wall portion  310  defines adhesive receiving portion (in the form of depression  316  in this example) for receiving and retaining adhesive  32 . Therefore, the sealing member can be formed readily by filling adhesive  32  in the depression  316  at least to a position on the x negative side of end surface  300  of first molding member  30 . The sealing member thus formed by adhesive  32  closes a clearance formed between the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and first molding member  30  in the end surface  300 , and envelope the insulating covering of each covered wire sealingly. Thus, second molding member  31  functions to facilitate the operation of applying the adhesive  32 , and to seal the clearance and crack efficiently. Annular wall portion  310  of second molding member  31  forms the depression  316  like a reservoir for retaining and storing the adhesive  32  having a flowability at the time of application of adhesive  32 . Therefore, the second molding member  31  promotes the operation of filling the adhesive  32  efficiently and facilitates the operation of forming the sealing member with adhesive  32 . Even if a clearance is formed between the first and second molding members  30  and  31  (between the inside circumferential surface of engagement hole  314  of second molding member  31  and the outside circumferential surface of first molding member  30 ), the wall portion  310  of the illustrated example surrounds the outside circumference of first molding member  30 , and the sealing member formed with adhesive  32  in the depression  316  includes an annular portion (rim portion) surrounding the first molding member  30  contiguously and sealingly and reaching the end surface  315  of second molding member  31 . Therefore, the sealing member of adhesive  32  can seal the clearance between first and second molding members  30  and  31  efficiently and prevent water from entering through the clearance. In the illustrate example, the wall portion  310  extends around the first molding member so as to describe a closed figure shaped like a rectangle as viewed from the x negative side, and includes two laterally extending segments extending in the y axis direction and spaced from each other in the z axis direction, and two normally extending segments extending in the z axis direction between the laterally extending segments so as to form a rectangular closed figure. The wall thickness of the laterally extending segments is greater than the wall thickness of the normally extending segments, in the example shown in  FIG. 7 . However, it is possible to employ the wall portion  310  which is shaped like an oblong circle as shown in  FIG. 14 , and which has a uniform wall thickness over the entire circumference. In this case, it is possible to form the connection main portion  312  to have the outside circumference shaped like the oblong wall portion  310 . 
     Second molding member  31  includes the connecting portion (or base portion)  311  formed on the x positive side of wall portion  310 , and arranged to connect the wall portion  310  with first molding member  30  liquid-tightly. Therefore, connector  1  can be attached to an electric component (such as torque sensor TS) simply by attaching the connecting portion  311  of second molding member  31  to the electronic component (housing  2 ) without the need for attaching the first molding member  30  directly to the housing  2 . Therefore, the structure including second molding member  31  eliminates the need for providing a special seal member between first molding member  30  and housing  2  (through hole  220 ), and hence facilitates the connecting operation of connector  1  (improves the connectivity). Specifically, second molding member  31  of the illustrated example includes the abutment surface  31   c  facing in the x positive direction, and abutting on the housing  2  (connector mount portion  22 ) when connector  1  is connected to torque sensor TS. This abutment (surface to surface contact) ensures the joint and sealing between connector  1  and housing  2  (connector mount portion  22 ), and prevent invasion of water into housing  2  through the through hole  220 , to the uncovered segments B of covered wires  10  (and conductive member  11 ). Second molding member  31  is so formed that the parting plane α of the second mold  6  is located on the x negative side of abutment surface  31   c . Therefore, the abutment surface  31   c  can be formed accurately in conformity with the shape (sealing plane) of second mold  6  without interference between the parting plane α and the abutment surface  31   c , to the advantage of improvement of joining and sealing performance. 
     Second molding member  31  includes the engagement portion in the form of pins  31   a  and  31   b  on the x positive side end surface  31   c . Pins  31   a  and  31   b  are adapted to engage with the electronic component (engagement holes or depressions of housing  2 ) when connector  1  is connected with the electronic component (torque sensor TS). The structure using the engagement of pins  31   a  and  31   b  with housing  2  functions to improve the positioning accuracy for positioning second molding member  31  (and first molding member  30 ) relative to the electronic component (housing  2 ). Therefore, the structure can improve the relative positioning accuracy of the terminals of connector  1  projecting inside housing  2  (conductive members  11   a ˜ 11   e ) and the mating member (substrate  200 ) of the electronic component (torque sensor TS), hence improve the electric connectivity of connector  1 , and improve the efficiency of operation of setting substrate  200  in housing  2  and connecting terminals  11   a ˜ 11   e . The number, shape and positions of pins  31   a  and  31   b  are not limited those of the illustrated example. Instead of the pins  31   a  and  31   b , it is optional to employ various forms of the engagement portion for determine the position by engagement, such as a claw shaped structure (snap fit). Moreover, it possible to form one or more projections in housing  2 , and to form, in connector  1 , one or more depressions for engaging with the projections. Without using engagement or fitting, it is possible to achieve the positioning with one or more marks in housing  2 , for indicating the position of connector  1 . 
     Second molding member  31  includes the annular seal groove  318  formed in the abutment surface  31   c , for receiving the seal member in the form of O ring. The O ring S installed in annular seal groove  318  functions to seal the clearance between housing  2  (connector mount portion  22 ) and connector  1  (abutment surface  31   c ). It is possible to omit the seal groove  318  and the seal member S, and to ensure the sealing performance with the abutment (surface to surface contact). However, the connecting structure employing the seal member (O ring) S can further improve the joining and sealing performance between connector  1  and the electronic component in the abutment surface  31   c . Even if the abutment surface  31   c  is not entirely in contact with housing  2 , the structure can ensure the desired sealing performance with the O ring S pressed tightly against housing  2 . It is optional to form the seal groove in the electronic component instead of the seal groove  318  of second molding member  31 . Moreover, it is optional to omit the seal groove. In the illustrated example of the first embodiment, the connector  1  (second molding member  31 ) is joined to the electronic component (connector mount portion  22  of housing  2 ) by fastening devices such as bolts b. Therefore, the O ring S is pressed in the x axis direction against the housing  2  by the axial forces of bolts b, and hence the sealing performance is improved. In order to reduce the size of connector  1 , it is desirable to reduce the wall thickness (the dimension in the x axis direction) of second molding member  31  (the connecting portion  311 ). On the other hand, the formation of seal groove  318  decrease the wall thickness or dimension in the x axis direction of second molding member  31  (the connecting portion  311 ), and hence decreases the strength against the pressing force of the O ring, so that there is even a possibility of the second molding member  31  being bent at the position of seal groove  318 . In the illustrated example of the first embodiment, the seal groove  318  is formed at such a position that the seal groove  318  overlaps the wall portion  310  as viewed from the x axis direction. Therefore, a decrease of the dimension in the x axis direction by the seal groove  318  is compensated for by the dimension in the x axis direction of wall portion  310  (complementing the decrease of strength caused by the formation of seal groove  318 , with the wall portion  310 ). Accordingly, this arrangement prevent or restrain creep (deformation) of second molding member  31  (connecting portion  311 ). In the illustrated example, the seal groove  318  overlaps the wall portion  310 , as viewed from the x axis direction (longitudinal direction of the covered wires  10 ), in the y axis direction and the z axis direction in which the wall portion  310  extends. There is no need for complete overlapping between seal groove  318  and wall portion  310  (one is included in the other as viewed from the x axis direction). The overlapping arrangement between seal groove  318  and wall portion  310  may be partial as viewed from the x axis direction, to an extent to compensate for a decrease of the strength (wall thickness) of second molding member  31  (preferably to such an extent that a half or more of one overlaps the other as viewed in the x axis direction). 
     Second molding member  31  of the illustrated example is formed by the insert molding process of molding in the state in which the first molding member  30  is placed, as an insert, in the second mold  6 . The production method including the first molding step of molding first molding member  30  and the second molding step of molding second molding member  31  in the insert molding mode makes it easier to form the relatively complicated shape of connector  1  including wall portion  310  for holding adhesive  32  and connecting portion  311  for connection with an electronic component. This production method employing two molding steps for the first and second molding members  30  and  31  makes each of the molding operations simple and easier. Moreover, this production method makes it possible to form the first and second molding members  30  and  31  with two difference materials having different properties, and hence improves the moldability (formability). However, it is possible to employ a production method of forming the first and second molding members  30  and  31  by a single molding step. Furthermore, it is possible to form the shape of connecting portion  311  (wall portion  310 ) by another step (molding). 
     Wall portion  310  surrounds the first molding member  30  with a predetermined interspace or clearance extending around the first molding member  30  and spacing the wall portion  310  from the first molding member  30  (in the y axis direction and the z axis direction). This interspace acts to decrease the possibility of interference (contact) of second mold  6  with the insulating coverings of covered wires  10 , and hence improves the moldability of second molding member  31 . Second molding member  31  has the complicated shape including the annular wall portion  310 , and the direction for extraction of second mold  6  is limited (mainly to the x axis direction). Moreover, from the x negative side end surface  300  of first molding member  30 , the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (covered portions A) extend in the x negative direction. Therefore, in the operation of removing the second mold  6 , the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  may be contacted by the portion of second mold  6  forming the inner side of wall portion  310 , and this contact or interference by the second mold  6  may break or remove the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (so as to bare the inner conductive wire). Therefore, the connecting structure is designed to facilitate extraction of the second mold  6  in the demolding operation, and to avoid interference (contact) between the second mold  6  and the insulating coverings of covered wires  10  as much as possible. Specifically, the second mold  6  is formed with the through hole  620  which extends in the x axis direction which is formed in the central region of second mold  6  surrounded by the portion forming the inner side of wall portion  610  and which receives therein the first molding member  30 . At the time of the step of molding second molding member  31 , the x negative side portion of first molding member  30  is fit in the x positive side portion of through hole  620 , and the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  extend from the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  in the x negative direction through the through hole  320 . At the time of demolding operation, the x positive and negative side parts  61  and  62  of second mold  6  are separated in the x direction and removed. The x negative side part  62  is removed to the x negative side, and the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are moved only in the x axis direction relative to the part  62 , so that this structure can restrain sliding contact between the part  62  (the inside surface of through hole  620 ) and the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10 , and thereby facilitate the molding operation of second molding member  31 . The structure including the interspace between the outside circumference of first molding member  30  and the inside surface of wall portion  310  of second molding member  31  is helpful in avoiding interference with the covered segments A, securing the wall thickness of second mold  6 , and improving the moldability of second molding member  30  (wall portion  310 ). The interspace is extended entirely around the first molding member  30  to space the wall portion  310  from first molding member  30  (in the y axis direction and z axis direction), so that the above-mentioned effect is obtained for sure. 
     The outside surfaces of first molding member  30  defines the cavity in combination with the inside surfaces of second mold  6 , and the material of second molding member  31  is filled in this cavity. Therefore, prevention of leakage of the filled material to the outside of the mold  6  is important between the outside surfaces of first molding member  30  and the inside surfaces of second mold  6 . For example, it is undesirable to employ the structure in which the x negative side end surface ( 300 ) of first molding member  30  is located at the position in the x axis direction of the x negative side end surface  315  of connecting portion  311  of second molding member  31 . In this structure, the seal length (the area of contact) is approximately equal to zero between the inside surface of second mold  6  for forming the connecting portion  311 , and the outside surface of first molding member  30  (on the x negative side) for defining the cavity of the second mold  6 , so that there is a possibility of leakage of the material therebetween. By contrast, in the structure according to the first embodiment, the x negative side end surface ( 300 ) of first molding member  30  projects in the x negative direction from the second molding member  31  (the x negative side end surface  315  of connecting portion  311  surrounded by wall portion  310 ). Therefore, the second molding member  31  can be molded in the state in which the x negative side portion of first molding member  30  is fit in the through hole  620  of second mold  6 . In this case, it is possible to obtain a seal surface formed between first molding member  30  and second molding member  31 , to an extent corresponding to the length of projection of first molding member  30  (the distance in the x axis direction of the above-mentioned fitting portion). This structure can restrain leakage of the material during the molding operation with the second mold  6  and improve the moldability. The projection of the x negative side end surface  300  of first molding member  30  in the x negative direction from the x negative side end surface  315  of connecting portion  311  surrounded by wall portion  310  means the existence of the interspace between the wall portion  310  and the first molding member  30 . The structure having the interspace can restrain damage of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  due to interference of second mold  6 , and improve the moldability. 
     First molding member  30  is formed with at least one rib  301  at the position surrounded by second molding member  31 . The rib  301  is small in heat capacity as compared to the other portions of first molding member  30 , and apt to melt at high temperatures. Therefore, at the time of insert molding with the second mold  6 , the rib  301  first becomes soft or molten, and thereby improves the joining property between first and second molding members  30  and  31 . Specifically, the rib  301  is located at the position adjacent to the gate  60  through which the molten material is poured. Therefore, when the high temperature molten second resin material is poured into second mold  6  through the gate  30 , the rib  301  first touches the molten material, and melts promptly, to improve the joining property between first and second molding members. 
     [Effects of First Embodiment] The connecting structure including the connector  1  and the production method according to the first embodiment can provide following effects. 
     (1) A connecting structure is a structure (including a connector  1 ) to connect electronic components (such as torque sensor TS and control unit ECU) electrically. The connecting structure comprises a plurality of conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ), a (first) molding member ( 30 ), a holding member ( 31 ) (second molding member), and a sealing member made of an adhesive ( 32 ). Each of the conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ) includes a covered segment (A) having an insulating covering to cover a conductor and an uncovered segment (B) including the conductor bared with no insulating covering. The (first) molding member ( 30 ) is a member of a material such as a resin material fixing positions of the conducting lines relative to one another (by becoming solid or hard, or coagulating after the molding operation), and enclosing boundary portions of the covered segments and the uncovered segments of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments (B) project in a first direction (x positive direction) from a first side end surface (on the x positive side) of the molding member ( 30 ) and the covered segments (A) project in a second direction (x negative direction) from a second side end surface ( 300 )(on the x negative side). The holding member ( 31 ) is formed on the molding member ( 30 ) by a second step different from a first step of forming the molding member ( 30 ). The holding member ( 31 ) include an annular wall portion ( 310 ) projecting in the second direction (x negative direction) beyond the second side end surface ( 300 ) of the molding member ( 30 ) and surrounding the covered segments (A) of the conducting lines, and a base portion or connecting portion ( 311 ) formed on the first side (x positive side) of the wall portion ( 310 ) and arranged to connect the wall portion ( 310 ) and the molding member ( 30 ) liquid-tightly. The sealing member of the adhesive ( 32 ) is formed in the holding member ( 31 ) (in depression  316 ), and arranged to adhere to the outside circumference of each of the covered segments (A) of the conducting lines projecting from the second side end surface. The covered segments (A) of the conducting lines projecting from the second side end surface ( 300 ) of the molding member ( 30 ) are buried at least partly in the adhesive ( 32 ). The thus-constructed connecting structure secures the sealing performance (waterproofness) of the conducting lines and simplifies the construction of the connecting structure. 
     (2) The (first) molding member ( 30 ) is made of a material nonadherent to the insulating material. Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the molding operation of the (first) molding member ( 30 ). 
     (3) The holding member (second molding member  31 ) is formed by the insert molding process in the state in which the first molding member ( 30 ) is set in a mold (second mold  6 ), and so shaped that the x negative side end surface ( 300 ) of the first molding member ( 30 ) projects from the holding member ( 31 ) (from the end surface  315  of the connecting portion  311 ). Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the operation of molding the first molding member ( 30 ) and the operation of molding the holding member (second molding member  31 ). 
     (4) The annular wall portion ( 310 ) is spaced at a predetermined distance from the outside circumferential surface of the first molding member ( 30 ) (in the y axis direction and the z axis direction). Therefore, the second mold ( 6 ) for forming the holding member ( 31 ) can be shaped to lower the possibility of interference with the insulating coverings of the covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ), so that the efficiency of the molding operation for the second molding member ( 31 ) can be improved. 
     (5) The annular wall portion ( 310 ) is spaced from the outside circumferential surface of the first molding member ( 30 ) so that an annular interspace spacing the annular wall portion (radially) from the first molding member extends entirely around the first molding member ( 30 ). Therefore, it is possible to improve the effect of the above-mentioned feature (4). 
     (6) The first molding member ( 30 ) includes holes ( 30   a ˜ 30   d ) formed by pins ( 5   a ˜ 5   d ) used, in the molding operation to form the first molding member ( 30 ), for regulating the relative positions of the covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   d ) to one another. Therefore, the structure can improve the relative position accuracy of the covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ) at the time of molding the first molding member ( 30 ). 
     (7) The holding member (second molding member  31 ) is formed by the insert molding process using the first molding member ( 30 ) as an insert set in a mold (second mold  6 ) for forming the holding member ( 31 ), and the first molding member ( 30 ) is formed with at least one projection (rib  301 ) in a portion surrounded by and buried in the holding member ( 31 ). This structure can improve the property of the joint between the first molding member and the holding member. 
     (8) The projection (rib  301 ) is provided at a position adjacent to a feed opening or sprue (gate  60 ) of the mold (second mold  6 ) of the holding member ( 31 ) for introducing a molten material into the mold. This structure can improve the effect of the above-mentioned feature (7). 
     (9) The holding member (second molding member  31 ) includes an abutment surface ( 31   c ) formed on the first side (x positive side) to face in the first direction (x positive direction) and arranged to abut on an electronic component (TS)(housing  2 ) when the connector is connected with the electronic component. Moreover, the holding member ( 31 ) is formed by insert molding with a mold ( 6 ) having a parting plane (α) which is located on the second side (x negative side) of the abutment surface ( 31   c ). Therefore, it is possible to improve the joint properties (sealing performance) of the abutment surface ( 31   c ) with the electronic component. 
     (10) The holding member (second molding member  31 ) includes an engagement portion (pins  31   a  and  31   b ) which is formed in the uncovered side end surface (x positive side end surface) and arranged to engage with a first electronic component when connected with the first electronic component (torque sensor TS). This structure can improve the electrical connectability. 
     (11) The holding member (second molding member  31 ) includes a seal groove ( 318 ) formed in the abutment surface ( 31   c ) facing in the first (x positive) direction to abut again a first electronic component (torque sensor TS). The seal groove ( 318 ) is adapted to receive a seal member (O ring S). The seal groove ( 318 ) is so formed as to overlap the position of the wall portion ( 310 ) in the direction (y-z plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ). This structure can improve the sealing performance of the connector, and make it possible to reduce the size of the connector and restrain a decrease of the strength of the connector. 
     (12) A production method for forming a connecting structure (including a connector  1 ) to connect electronic components (TS, ECU) electrically, comprises first, second and third steps. The first step is a step of filling a first material such as a first resin material into a first mold ( 4 ) and thereby forming a molding member ( 30 ) of the first (resin) material holding a plurality of conducting lines each including a covered segment including a wire conductor covered with an insulating covering and an uncovered segment in which the wire conductor is bared, and enclosing a boundary portion between the covered segment (A) and the uncovered segment (B) of each of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments (B)(bared wire conductor or bared lead conductor) project in a first direction (x positive direction) from a first end (x positive side) of the molding member and the covered segments (A) project in a second direction (x negative direction) from a second end ( 300 ) (x negative side) of the molding member. The second step is a step of filling a second material such as a second resin material into a second mold ( 6 ) with the molding member ( 30 ) set in the second mold ( 6 ), and thereby forming a holding member ( 31 ) (second molding member) of the second (resin) material fitting over the molding member ( 30 ) liquid-tightly, and defining a receiving portion ( 316 ). The third step is a step of forming a sealing member ( 32 ) of an adhesive ( 32 ) in the receiving portion ( 316 ) defined by the holding member so that the adhesive adheres to each of the covered segments (A) of the conducting lines projecting from the second end ( 300 ) of the molding member ( 30 ). Therefore, the production method can fix the relative positions of conducting lines readily, facilitate the first molding step of forming the molding member ( 30 ) by forming the holding member by another step, prevent ingress of water by filing the adhesive in the receiving portion defined by the holding member, and facilitate the operation of forming the sealing member ( 32 ) by filling the adhesive in the receiving portion. 
     (13) The second molding member (holding member) ( 31 ) is so formed that the second end ( 300 ) of the first molding member ( 30 ) projects in the second direction (x negative direction) from a connecting portion or base portion ( 311 ) ( 315 ) of the second molding member ( 31 ). This structure facilitates the insert molding process with the second mold ( 6 ) since the projected portion of the first molding member can serve as a seal portion for the insert in the second mold ( 6 ). Moreover, this structure can reduce the possibility of injury of the covered wires by the second mold ( 6 ). 
     (14) Lead conductors ( 11   a ˜ 11   e ) are connected, respectively, with the covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ). The molding operation in the first step is performed in the state in which the lead conductors are connected together with a connecting portion ( 11 B). This structure can improve the relative position accuracy of the lead conductors ( 11   a ˜ 11   e ). 
     (15) The connecting portion ( 11 B) is cut off after the first step, to separate the lead conductors  11   a ˜ 11   e . This structure can improve the relative position accuracy of the lead conductors ( 11   a ˜ 11   e ). 
     Second Embodiment 
     A connector  1  according to a second embodiment is different from the connector of the first embodiment in the shape of wall portion  310  (depression  316 ) of second molding member  31 .  FIG. 15  is a front view similar to  FIG. 7  but showing the connector  1  according to the second embodiment from the x negative side. In  FIG. 15 , the bolt through holes  319  are omitted. As shown in  FIG. 15 , the annular wall portion  310  is shaped to lie away from the outside circumference of first molding member  30  in a predetermined first region (on the z positive side and the z negative side, in this example), and to lie closer to, or adjacent to, the outside circumference of first molding member  30  in a predetermined second region (on the y positive side and on the y negative side, in this example). The wall portion  310  includes two laterally extending segments extending in the y axis direction and spaced from each other in the z axis direction, and two normally extending segments extending in the z axis direction between the laterally extending segments so as to form a rectangular closed shape. The wall thickness of the normally extending segments is increased on the inner side toward the outside circumference of the first molding member  30 . As viewed from the x axis direction, the inside surface of each of the normally extending segments extending in the z axis direction is adjacent to the outside circumference of the first molding member  30  with no or little spacing. 
     Therefore, in the depression  316  shown in  FIG. 15 , the adhesive  32  is not filled between the first molding member  30  and each of the normally extending segments on the y positive side and y negative side. In this case, it is possible to reduce the required amount of adhesive  32 , as compared to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the interspace to be filled with the adhesive is formed all around the first molding member  30  in the depression  316  surrounded by the wall portion  310 . However, it is optional to eliminate part of the interspace between the wall portion  310  and the first molding member  30 , and leaving the remaining part of the interspace to prevent interference between the insulating coverings of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  and the second mold  6 . In the second embodiment, the interspace is formed between the first molding member  30  and each of the laterally extending segments extending along the row of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  on the z positive side and z negative side, and having greater influence on the interference with the second mold  6 . Accordingly, the structure of the second embodiment can prevent interference effectively, and reduce the production cost by reducing the amount of the adhesive. 
     Third Embodiment 
     A connector  1  according to a third embodiment is different from the connector of the first embodiment in the shape of wall portion  310  (depression  316 ) of second molding member  31 .  FIG. 16  is a partial sectional view similar to  FIG. 6  but showing the connector  1  according to the third embodiment (showing only the y negative side). The seal groove  318  and pins  31   b  are omitted. As shown in  FIG. 16 , the inside circumferential surface of wall portion  310  of second molding member  31  is inclined or curved so that the inside circumferential surface of wall portion  310  becomes closer to the first molding member  30  on the inner side gradually in the direction from the projecting end of wall portion  310  on the x negative side, toward the bottom ( 315 ) on the x positive side. In other word, the second molding member  31  includes a tapered portion T in which the dimension of the y axis direction (the inside diameter or radius) of the inside circumferential surface of depression  316  for retaining the adhesive  31  is decreased gradually toward the bottom ( 315 ) of the depression  316 . Thus, in the illustrated example of this embodiment, the recessed corner or reentrant corner formed between the bottom surface  315  and the inside circumferential surface of wall portion  310  is rounded or inclined. In the other respects, the third embodiment is substantially identical to the first embodiment so that repetitive explanation is omitted. The tapered portion T acts to reduce the amount of adhesive  31 , and to guide the adhesive  32  to be filled into a recessed portion. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     A connector  1  according to a fourth embodiment is different from the connector  1  of the first embodiment in the shape of the sealing member of the adhesive  32 .  FIG. 17  is a partial sectional view similar to  FIG. 6 , but showing the connector  1  of the fourth embodiment only around the covered wire  10   a . The other covered wires  10   b ˜ 10   e  are arranged in the same manner, so that repetitive explanation is omitted. As shown in  FIG. 17 , adhesive  32  forms a fillet portion  32   a  in a boundary portion with the covered wire  10   a . Adhesive  32  filled in the depression  312  forms the sealing member of adhesive  32  having a surface  320  facing in the x negative direction. The fillet portion  32   a  projects in the x negative direction from the adhesive surface  320  along covered wire  10   a , and covers the outside circumference of covered wire  10   a . Fillet portion  32   a  is formed by pulling the adhesive  32  by a surface tension of the adhesive in the x negative direction from the adhesive surface  320 . It is possible to select, as the adhesive  32 , an adhesive generating an appropriate surface tension when the adhesive is flowable at the time of filling the adhesive in depression  316 . The fillet portion  32   a  is tapered in the x negative direction along covered wire  10   a . In this example, the outside radius of fillet portion  32   a  (about the covered wire  10   a  in the y-z plane) becomes gradually smaller in the direction from the base portion on the x positive side toward the top end on the x negative side. In this example, the outside radius R of fillet portion  32   a  in the x positive side end (surface  320 ) is greater than a length H of fillet portion  32   a  in the longitudinal direction (x axis direction) of the covered wire  10 . In the other respect, the fourth embodiment is substantially identical to the first embodiment, and repetitive explanation is omitted. 
     The fillet portion  32   a  pulled up from end surface  320  in the x negative direction functions to increase the seal length (in the longitudinal direction of the covered wire  10 ) between the adhesive  32  and the covered wire  10  as compared to the first embodiment. Accordingly, it is possible to lower the end surface  320  of the adhesive  32  toward the bottom ( 315 ,  300 ) of the depression in the x positive direction so as to decrease the depth of adhesive  32  and to decrease the amount of adhesive  32  without decreasing the seal length with the additional seal length added by the fillet portion  32   a  of each covered wire. The tapered shape of fillet portion  32   a  as shown in  FIG. 17  can mitigate the stress concentration at the boundary between adhesive  32  and each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e , hence prevent cracks from being produced in the adhesive by bending of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , and improve the waterproofness of connector  1 . The tapered shape of fillet portion  32   a  may be formed by a curved surface or curved surfaces as shown in  FIG. 17  or may be formed by inclined flat surfaces. In the example of  FIG. 17 , the fillet portion  32   a  spreads broad at a foot of the mountain-shaped fillet portion  32   a  so that the outside radius R is greater than the height H. Therefore, it is possible to increase the rigidity of fillet portion  32   a  and prevent cracks of fillet portion  32   a.    
     Thus, the adhesive  32  includes the fillet portion  32   a  climbing by clinging and sheathing each covered wire in the x negative direction to the height H from the adhesive surface  320 . This structure can improve the waterproofness. Furthermore, the fillet portion  32   a  has the tapered shape or mountain-like shape tapering toward the top of fillet portion  32   a  in the x negative direction, and spreading wider toward the base ( 320 ) in the x positive direction. This structure can further improve the waterproofness. 
     Fifth Embodiment 
     A connector  1  according to a fifth embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment in the shapes of second molding member  31  and adhesive  32 .  FIG. 18  is a partial sectional view similar to  FIG. 6 , but showing the connector  1  according to the fifth embodiment (corresponding substantially to a sectional view taken across a line shown in  FIG. 19 ).  FIG. 19  is a front view similar to  FIG. 7 , but showing the connector  1  of the fifth embodiment as viewed from the x negative side.  FIG. 19  shows only part of connector  1 . In  FIG. 19 , seal groove  318  and pins  31   b  are omitted. As shown in  FIG. 18 , the second molding member  31  is a member shaped like a flat plate in which the wall portion  310  is eliminated, and the connection main portion  312  is modified. Second molding member  31  includes the engagement hole  314  receiving and holding the first molding member  30 , and the abutment surface  31   c  adapted to be joined to housing  2 . Second molding member  31  shown in  FIG. 18  includes an x negative side end surface  317  opposite to the abutment surface  31   c . The sealing member  32  is provided on the x negative side surface  317  of second molding member  31 . 
     The sealing member  32  is made of the adhesive. Sealing member  32  covers the first molding member  30  (and the engagement hole  314 ) as viewed in the x axis direction. The end portion including the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  projects in the x negative direction from second molding member  31 , and the sealing member  32  projects beyond the end surface  300  of first molding member  30  in the x negative direction, and encloses the covered segment of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . Sealing member  32  is appressed to the x negative side ( 300 ) of first molding member  30  and adheres to the insulating covering of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e . In the illustrated example, the end portion of first molding member  30 , including the end surface  300  and projecting in the x negative direction from second molding member  31  is buried in the sealing member  32  and each of the covered segments A of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  is buried partly in the sealing member  32 , and projected from the x negative side of the sealing member  32 . Sealing member  32  is formed by a molding process of filling the adhesive in a (third) mold in which the first and second molding members  30  and  31  are placed. The sealing member  32  is formed by filling the adhesive which has a flowability at least at the time of operating of filling the adhesive in the mold, and removing the mold after the adhesive is coagulated and hardened. As the material of the adhesive, it is possible to select an adhesive enabling or facilitating a molding process forming the sealing member  32 . As shown in  FIG. 19 , the mold for forming the sealing member  32  is arranged to clamp the covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  from both sides in the z direction (from the z positive side and the z negative side), and the mold is divided as shown by arrows along a parting plane γ (in the z positive direction and the z negative direction). The parting plane γ is parallel to the x axis direction (and perpendicular to the z axis direction). In the other respects, the fifth embodiment is substantially identical to the first embodiment, so that repetitive explanation is omitted. 
     The covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  are held firmly or gripped by first molding member  30  so that the relative positions of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  relative to one another are fixed. Sealing member  32  of adhesive is attached firmly to the x negative side end surface  300  of first molding member  30 , and encloses the insulating covering of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  adherently. Therefore, the structure including the sealing member  32  shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19  can prevent ingress of water through clearance between first to molding member  30  and the outside circumference of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  to the uncovered segments B. The structure can improve the efficiency of the production process by employing the molding process using a mold to form the sealing member  32 . The second molding member  31  does not require the wall portion  310  and requires only the connecting portion  311  of the simplified form similar to a mere flat plate. Therefore, the structure can improve the moldability of second molding member  31 . Furthermore, by using the third mold for the sealing member  32  in addition to the molds for the first and second molding members  30  and  31 , it is possible to facilitate the molding processes for first and second molding members  30  and  31 . Moreover, it is possible to reduce the number of required parts. In other words, in the fifth embodiment, the first and second molding members  30  and  31  are two distinct members. However, since the entire molding member formed by first and second molding members  30  and  31  has a simple structure, it is possible to form the first and second molding members  30  and  31  as a single molding member of the same resin material which can formed by a single molding operation (before the operation of forming the sealing member  32 ), to the advantage of improvement of the production process. In this case, there is no need for a sealing operation for sealing a clearance between first and second molding members  30  and  31  (the inside circumference of engagement hole  314  and the outside circumference of first molding member  30 ). Therefore, the sealing member  32  is required to cover only the x negative side end surface  300 , so that it is possible to reduce the amount of the adhesive. 
     The mold for forming sealing member  32  is removed in the radial direction of each covered wire  10   a ˜ 10   e  (z axis direction), as shown in  FIG. 19 . Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the possibility of sliding contact between the mold and covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  causing injury of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e , and thereby to improve the moldability of sealing member  32 , as compared to the mold releasing operation in the longitudinal direction of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e  (x axis direction). It is optional to eliminate the second molding member  31 . For example, it is possible to set and fit the first molding member  30  in the through hole  220  of housing  2 , and form the sealing member  32  in this state by sealing the clearance between the first molding member  30  and the through hole  220 , and by enclosing the insulating covering of each of covered wires  10   a ˜ 10   e.    
     According to the fifth embodiment, a connecting structure (including a connector  1 ) to connect electronic components (TS, ECU) electrically, comprises a plurality of conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ), a molding unit, and a sealing member ( 32 ). Each of the conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ) includes a covered segment (A) including a wire conductor covered with an insulating covering and an uncovered segment (B) including the wire conductor in an uncovered state having no insulating covering. The molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) of a resin material encloses a boundary portion between the covered segment and the uncovered segment of each of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments project in a first direction from a first end (x positive side) of the molding unit and the covered segments project in a second direction from a second end ( 300 ) (x negative side) of the molding unit, and thereby holds the conducting lines to fix positions of the conducting lines relative to one another. The sealing member is made of a material such as an adhesive contacting with the second end ( 300 ) of the molding unit, and adhering to each of the covered segments of the conducting lines projecting from the second end ( 300 ) of the molding unit. In the illustrated example, the sealing member ( 32 ) is formed by filling the adhesive in a (third) mold in which the molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) is placed. The adhesive is flowable at least at the time of the operation of filling the adhesive in the (third) mold, and the mold is removed after the adhesive becomes hard. The structure of the fifth embodiment can ensure the sealing performance (waterproofness) of the covered wires, simplifies the structure of connector and improve the connector structure. 
     In the illustrated example of the fifth embodiment, the mold for forming the sealing member ( 32 ) is split mold having a parting plane (γ) extending in the longitudinal direction of the covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ) (the x axis direction), and extends in the lateral direction (the y axis direction)(for example, in such a manner as to divide the row of covered wires ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ) into left and right halves so as to cut each of the covered wires into semicircular halves). This structure can improve the moldability of connector  1 . 
     According to one of various possible interpretations of the illustrated embodiments of the present invention, a connecting structure (which may include a connector ( 1 )) to connect electronic components electrically through a plurality of conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ) each including a covered segment (A) including a wire conductor covered with an insulating covering and an uncovered segment (B) including the wire conductor in an uncovered state having no insulating covering, comprises a molding unit and a sealing member ( 32 ). The molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) is made of a (resin) material and arranged to enclose a boundary portion between the covered segment and the uncovered segment of each of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments project in a first direction from a first end (x positive side) of the molding unit and the covered segments project in a second direction from a second end ( 300 ) (x negative side) of the molding unit, and thereby holding the conducting lines to fix positions of the conducting lines relative to one another. The sealing member ( 32 ) of an adhesive adheres to the second end of the molding unit and adheres to each of the covered segments of the conducting lines projecting from the second end of the molding member. In the illustrated embodiments, the sealing member includes a cover portion adhering to the second end ( 300 ) of the molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) and enclosing the covered segments (A) of the conducting lines ( 10   a ˜ 10   e ,  11   a ˜ 11   e ) projecting from the second end of the molding unit so that each of the covered segments of the conducting lines includes a buried portion buried in the sealing member and a non-buried portion projecting from the sealing member in the second direction (x negative direction) and the second end of the molding unit is buried in the sealing member, and a rim portion projecting in the first direction (x positive direction) from the cover portion of the sealing member and fitting over the molding unit. In the illustrated examples of the illustrated embodiments, the molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) includes an inner portion ( 30 ) including the first and second ends of the molding unit, enclosing the boundary portion between the covered segment and the uncovered segment of each of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments project in the first direction from the first end of the inner portion of the molding unit, and the covered segments project in the second direction from the second end of the inner portion of the molding unit, and thereby holding the conducting lines to fix positions of the conducting lines relative to one another; and the molding unit further includes a base portion ( 31 ,  311 ) fitting over the inner portion ( 30 ), the first end of the inner portion ( 30 ) projects in the first direction from the base portion and the second end of the inner portion projects from the base portion in the second direction. 
     According to one of various possible interpretations of the illustrated embodiments of the present invention, a production method of producing a connecting structure to connect electronic components electrically through a plurality of conducting lines each including a covered segment including a wire conductor covered with an insulating covering and an uncovered segment including the wire conductor in an uncovered state having no insulating covering, comprises a molding step of forming a molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) and a sealing step of forming a sealing member ( 32 ). The molding step includes an operation of filling a (resin) material into a mold and thereby forming a molding unit ( 3 ,  30 ,  31 ) enclosing a boundary portion between the covered segment and the uncovered segment of each of the conducting lines so that the uncovered segments project in a first direction from a first end of the molding unit and the covered segments project in a second direction from a second end of the molding unit, and thereby holding the conducting lines to fix positions of the conducting lines relative to one another. The sealing step includes an operation of forming the sealing member ( 32 ) of an adhesive adhering to the second end of the molding unit and adhering to each of the covered segments of the conducting lines projecting from the second end of the molding unit. The sealing step may include an operation of filling the adhesive in a mold for forming the sealing member; and the molding unit formed by the molding step includes a base portion ( 311 ) fitting over the molding member liquid-tightly, and including a wall surface ( 317 ) facing in the second direction (x negative direction) and defining a receiving portion for receiving the adhesive with the mold for forming the sealing member of the adhesive. 
     This application is based on a prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-273253 filed on Dec. 8, 2010. The entire contents of this Japanese Patent Application are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     Although the invention has been described above by reference to certain embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Modifications and variations of the embodiments described above will occur to those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. The scope of the invention is defined with reference to the following claims.