Patent Publication Number: US-9853382-B2

Title: Connector

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/354,157, entitled CONNECTOR, and filed Jan. 19, 2012. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Technical Field 
     The present invention relates to a connector used for communication equipment, electric devices, or electronic appliances, such as mobile terminals, projectors, television sets, etc., and it relates particularly to measures against the rocking motion of a connecting object in insertion direction, longitudinal pitch direction or upward direction, which are realized with a simple structure designed to achieve a connector with reduced profile height. 
     Background Art 
     Typically, connectors for connecting a connecting object (flexible printed circuit board (hereinafter called “FPC”), flexible flat cable (hereinafter called “FFC”), thin coaxial cable, and the like) with the help of a pivoting member by rotating the pivoting member comprise at least a plurality of contacts, a housing, and a pivoting member. Connectors that rotate a pivoting member to connect a connecting object to contacts are roughly classified into two types: front-lock type connectors and back-lock type connectors. In front-lock type connectors the pivoting member is rotated on the connecting object insertion side, while in back-lock type connectors the pivoting member is rotated on the side opposite from where the connecting object is inserted. Herein, only a back-lock type connector is described. 
     Hereinafter, a front-lock type connector with fixtures, a back-lock type connector and a connector for achieving a low profile, the latter two having been proposed by the applicant, are exemplified. 
     A back-lock type connector proposed by the applicant is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-71160 (Patent Document 1); a connector for achieving a low profile in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-141956 (Patent Document 2); and a back-lock type connector with locking members in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-147271 (Patent Document 3). A front-lock type connector with fixtures is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-134708 (Patent Document 4). 
     [Patent Document 1] 
     According to the abstract of Patent Document 1, the invention has the object to provide a connector which is capable of securely pressing an FPC 40 or FFC onto contact portions 22 of contacts 14 by means of a slider 16 without the strength, specifications, etc. of respective members degrading, and of achieving excellent operability, narrower pitches, and reduction in profile height. For the reduction in profile height, this connector comprises elastic portions 34 and fulcrum portions 32 between the contact portions 22 and connection portions 24 of the contacts 14, the contact portions 22, the elastic portions 34, the fulcrum portions 32, and the connection portions 24 being arranged roughly in the form of a crank. Further, pressure receiving portions 20 extending from the elastic portions 34 are provided on positions opposite the connection portions 24, while pressing portions 36 are provided longitudinally parallel to the slider 16. The slider 16 is mounted to the housing 12 in such a way that the pressing portions 36 are pivotable between the connection portions 22 and the pressure receiving portions 20 of the contacts 14. With this configuration, the above object can be achieved. 
     [Patent Document 2] 
     According to the abstract of Patent Document 2, the invention has the object to provide a low-profile connector 20 with a configuration that makes a height of approximately 0.6 mm possible. This low-profile connector 20, into which an FPC 10 or FFC can be plugged or from which an FPC 10 or FFC can be pulled, comprises a plurality of contacts 24 having contact portions 32 which are brought into contact with the FPC 10 or FFC, and a housing 22 in which these contacts 24 are held/arranged and that has a fitting portion 30 into which the FPC 10 or FFC is inserted. The contacts 24 protrude from the housing 22 and are arranged parallel to a hard board 46 or the FPC. The contacts 24 are provided with contact portions 32 on the hard board 46 or FPC side. At least the contact portions 32 or the parts protruding from the housing 22 are not covered by the housing 22. With this configuration, the low-profile connector 20 can achieve the above object. 
     [Patent Document 3] 
     According to the abstract of Patent Document 3, the invention has the object to provide a connector which is capable of having a further reduced profile height without causing connection failures, and which can ensure, even with a small number of pins, a stable holding force on an FPC. An FPC 80 is provided with anchoring portions 82, and locking members 18 are mounted on a housing 12. The locking members 18 comprise first pieces 20 having, on a first side, engaging portions 24 for engaging with the anchoring portions 82, on a second side, pressure receiving portions 26 pressed by a pivoting member 16, and protruding portions 34 protruding inward on the tips of the pressure receiving portions; second pieces 22 having, on the second side, connection portions 30 for connecting to a board; and connecting fulcrum portions 32 for connecting the first side of the first pieces 20 to the first side of the second pieces 22. 
     Thus, a connector is disclosed wherein, when the pivoting member 16 is rotated to engage the engaging portions 24 of the locking members 18 with the anchoring portions 82 of the FPC 80, the second pieces 22 are not present in positions opposite the engaging portions 24, and wherein the housing 12 is provided with recesses 42 in positions corresponding to the locking members 18. 
     [Patent Document 4] 
     According to the abstract of Patent Document 4, the invention has the object to firmly ground a shielding member of an FPC. Therefore, a connector for a flexible board is disclosed, wherein a housing 3 is provided with a plurality of signal contacts 11 and ground contacts 12a, 12b, the ground contacts 12a, 12b being integrally molded articles comprised of connection portions 61 that are directly connected to a ground connecting piece 24 connected to a shielding member 22 of an FPC 2, press-fit pieces that are press-fit into the housing 3, and fixed tabs 64 that are fixed on a printed wiring board 3 and connected to the ground. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention is made in view of the above conventional problems, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a connector that provides a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) while providing further reduction in profile height or maintaining the current low-profile level so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1(A)  is a perspective view of a connector and an FPC, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the pivoting member opened. 
         FIG. 1(B)  is a perspective view of the connector, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the pivoting member closed. 
         FIG. 1(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector, cut along a certain portion of the contact, with the pivoting member closed. 
         FIG. 1(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector, cut along the fixture, with the pivoting member closed. 
         FIG. 2(A)  is a perspective view of the connector mounted on the board, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the FPC inserted and the pivoting member closed. 
         FIG. 2(B)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along a certain portion of the contact. 
         FIG. 2(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along the locking member. 
         FIG. 2(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along the fixture. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the fixtures at the left and right ends in the longitudinal pitch direction. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the contact. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the locking member. 
         FIG. 6(A)  is a perspective view of the housing, viewed from above the fitting opening. 
         FIG. 6(B)  is a perspective view of the housing turned upside down, viewed from above the fitting opening. 
         FIG. 6(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the housing, cut along a certain portion of the insertion hole for the contact. 
         FIG. 6(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the housing, cut along a certain portion of the insertion hole for the locking member. 
         FIG. 7(A)  is a perspective view of the pivoting member, viewed from the direction of the fitting opening. 
         FIG. 7(B)  is a perspective view of the pivoting member, viewed from the opposite side of the fitting opening. 
         FIG. 7(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the pivoting member, cut along a certain portion of the anchoring hole into which the pressure receiving portion of the contact is inserted. 
         FIG. 7(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the pivoting member, cut along a certain portion of the anchoring hole into which the pressure receiving portion of the locking member is inserted. 
         FIGS. 8(A)  to (E) are explanatory views of the motions of the pressing portion and the rotation axis during the rotation of the pivoting member. 
         FIG. 8(F)  is an explanatory view of the profile-height-reducing effect when the rotation axis (dent) is not provided in the contact. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 
     
         
           5  Fitting opening 
           10  Connector 
           12  Housing 
           121  Insertion groove (for contact) 
           122  Insertion groove (for locking member) 
           123  First recess portion 
           124  Second recess portion 
           125  Roof portion 
           126  Groove 
           127  Bearing 
           14  Contact 
           141  First contact portion 
           142  First fixing portion 
           143  First connection portion 
           144  First elastic portion 
           145  First fulcrum portion 
           146  First pressure receiving portion 
           147  First extending portion 
           148  Recess portion 
           149  First protruding portion 
           16  Pivoting member 
           161  Operating portion 
           162  Shaft 
           163  Pressing portion 
           164  Anchoring hole 
           165  Partition wall 
           166  Recess 
           18  Locking member 
           181  Engaging portion 
           182  Fixing portion 
           183  Connection portion 
           184  Elastic portion 
           185  Fulcrum portion 
           186  Pressure receiving portion 
           20  Fixture 
           201  Connection portion 
           202  Engaging portion 
           203  Fixing portion 
           204  Extending portion 
           30  Lower end 
           32  Upper end 
           34  Rotation axis 
           70  FPC (flexible printed circuit board) 
           72  Anchoring portion 
           80  Board 
       
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Problems to be Solved by the Invention 
     In recent years, the miniaturization of communication equipment, electric devices, electronic appliances, etc. as well as the miniaturization of connectors has been in progress. Therefore, there is a need for a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of a connecting object in insertion direction, longitudinal pitch direction or upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) while providing further reduction in profile height or maintaining the current low-profile level. There is also a need for the deflection of the connecting object being prevented and a stable connection being obtained even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC. 
     However, the aforementioned inventions have the following problems. 
     The structure in Patent Document 1 has no measure against the rocking motion of a connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction, or the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector). 
     Since the structure in Patent Document 2 has no lower wall, it allows the profile of the connector to be reduced. However, it has no measure against the rocking motion of a connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector). Further, when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, the board on which the connector is mounted is easily deflected, and the deflection, etc. of the connecting object cannot be prevented due to the lack of the lower insulator wall. 
     The structure in Patent Document 3 uses locking members as a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction. However, it has no measure against the rocking motion in the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector). 
     The structure in Patent Document 4 uses fixtures as a measure against the rocking motion in the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector). However, it has no measure against the rocking motion of a connecting object in the insertion direction. 
     Means for Solving the Problems 
     The object of the present invention can be achieved by a connector for detachably plugging a connecting object, comprising a plurality of contacts, each having a contact portion for contacting the connecting object, and a pressure receiving portion subjected to the action of a pivoting member; a housing holding and arranging the contacts and having a fitting opening for inserting the connecting object; and the pivoting member being pivotally mounted on the side of the housing opposite from the fitting opening; wherein the connecting object is provided with anchoring portions; locking members, each of which has an engaging portion for engaging with one of the anchoring portions each; a connection portion for connecting to a board; an elastic portion and a fulcrum portion provided between the engaging portion and the connection portion; and a pressure receiving portion extending from the elastic portion in the direction opposite from that of the engaging portion, are arranged at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction; the housing is provided with a first recess portion that allows the pressure receiving portions of the contacts to be moved, a second recess portion on the lower side of the housing on the fitting opening side, and grooves on the upper side of the housing on the fitting opening side; fixtures, each of which has an engaging portion for engaging with one groove each and a connection portion for connecting to the board, are arranged on the fitting opening side; and each contact is at least provided with a first elastic portion and a first fulcrum portion provided between a first contact portion, which is the contact portion, and a first connection portion such that the first contact portion, the first elastic portion, the first fulcrum portion and the first connection portion are arranged roughly in a U-shape, and with a first pressure receiving portion, which is the pressure receiving portion, extending from the first elastic portion in the direction opposite from the first contact portion. 
     The connector can be a connector wherein the locking members provide a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion and removal direction, the engaging portions of the fixtures are engaged with the grooves of the housing to provide a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the upward and pitch directions, and the first and second recess portions allow a reduction in the profile height of the connector. 
     Additionally, the connector can be a connector wherein the engaging portion, the elastic portion, the fulcrum portion and the connection portion of each locking member are arranged roughly in the form of a crank or roughly in a U-shape. 
     Further, the connector can be a connector wherein the engaging portion, the elastic portion, the fulcrum portion and the connection portion of each locking member are arranged roughly in the form of a crank and inserted into the housing on the side opposite from the fitting opening, the connection portions of the fixtures are arranged on the fitting opening side, and the connection portions of the locking members and the connection portions of the fixtures are arranged on the opposite side of each other. 
     The connector can be a connector wherein second contacts, each of which is provided with a second elastic portion and a second fulcrum portion provided between a second contact portion, which is the contact portion, and a second connection portion such that the second contact portion, the second elastic portion, the second fulcrum portion and the second connection portion are arranged roughly in the form of a crank, and with a second pressure receiving portion, which is the pressure receiving portion, extending from the second elastic portion in a position opposite the second connection portion, are inserted into the housing from the side opposite from the fitting opening, and wherein the contacts and the second contacts are arranged in an alternating manner. 
     The connector can be a connector wherein, when the connecting object is inserted into the fitting opening, the connecting object is inserted into the fitting opening in such a manner as to abut against the first connection portions of the contacts. 
     Furthermore, the connector can be a connector wherein the pivoting member is pivotally mounted on the side of the housing opposite from the fitting opening and provided with elongated pressing portions which are longitudinally provided parallel to the pivoting member such that each pressing portion acts on the first pressure receiving portion and/or the second pressure receiving portion and the pressure receiving portion of one locking member each, and further provided with separate individual anchoring holes with partition walls into each of which one of the first pressure receiving portions and/or one of the second pressure receiving portions and one of the pressure receiving portions are inserted such that when the pressing portion acts on the first pressure receiving portion and/or the second pressure receiving portion and the pressure receiving portion of the locking member, a connection and engagement with the connecting object is made. 
     Furthermore, the connector can be a connector wherein each extending portion of the contacts is provided with a recess that accommodates the thickness of the housing. 
     Advantages of the Invention 
     As is apparent from the foregoing explanation, the connector of the present invention provides the following advantageous effects. 
     (1) The connector can be a connector for detachably plugging a connecting object, comprising a plurality of contacts, each having a contact portion for contacting the connecting object, and a pressure receiving portion subjected to the action of a pivoting member; a housing holding and arranging the contacts and having a fitting opening for inserting the connecting object; and the pivoting member being pivotally mounted on the side of the housing opposite from the fitting opening; wherein the connecting object is provided with anchoring portions; locking members, each of which has an engaging portion for engaging with one of the anchoring portions each; a connection portion for connecting to a board; an elastic portion and a fulcrum portion provided between the engaging portion and the connection portion; and a pressure receiving portion extending from the elastic portion in the direction opposite from that of the engaging portion, are arranged at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction; the housing is provided with a first recess portion that allows the pressure receiving portions of the contacts to be moved, a second recess portion on the lower side of the housing on the fitting opening side, and grooves on the upper side of the housing on the fitting opening side; fixtures, each of which has an engaging portion for engaging with one groove each and a connection portion for connecting to the board, are arranged on the fitting opening side; and each contact is at least provided with a first elastic portion and a first fulcrum portion provided between a first contact portion, which is the contact portion, and a first connection portion such that the first contact portion, the first elastic portion, the first fulcrum portion and the first connection portion are arranged roughly in a U-shape, and with a first pressure receiving portion, which is the pressure receiving portion, extending from the first elastic portion in the direction opposite from the first contact portion. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (2) The connector can be a connector wherein the locking members provide a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion and removal direction, the engaging portions of the fixtures are engaged with the grooves of the housing to provide a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the upward and pitch directions, and the first and second recess portions allow a reduction in the profile height of the connector. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (3) The connector can be a connector wherein the engaging portion, the elastic portion, the fulcrum portion and the connection portion of each locking member are arranged roughly in the form of a crank or roughly in a U-shape. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (4) The connector can be a connector wherein the engaging portion, the elastic portion, the fulcrum portion and the connection portion of each locking member are arranged roughly in the form of a crank and inserted into the housing on the side opposite from the fitting opening, the connection portions of the fixtures are arranged on the fitting opening side, and the connection portions of the locking members and the connection portions of the fixtures are arranged on the opposite side of each other. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. In addition, the connector is well balanced on the mounting board, and the mounting strength on the mounting board is stable as well. 
     (5) The connector can be a connector wherein second contacts, each of which is provided with a second elastic portion and a second fulcrum portion provided between a second contact portion, which is the contact portion, and a second connection portion such that the second contact portion, the second elastic portion, the second fulcrum portion and the second connection portion are arranged roughly in the form of a crank, and with a second pressure receiving portion, which is the pressure receiving portion, extending from the second elastic portion in a position opposite the second connection portion, are inserted into the housing from the side opposite from the fitting opening, and wherein the contacts and the second contacts are arranged in an alternating manner. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (6) The connector can be a connector wherein, when the connecting object is inserted into the fitting opening, the connecting object is inserted into the fitting opening in such a manner as to abut against the first connection portions of the contacts. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (7) The connector can be a connector wherein the pivoting member is pivotally mounted on the side of the housing opposite from the fitting opening and provided with elongated pressing portions which are longitudinally provided parallel to the pivoting member such that each pressing portion acts on the first pressure receiving portion and/or the second pressure receiving portion and the pressure receiving portion of one locking member each, and further provided with separate individual anchoring holes with partition walls into each of which one of the first pressure receiving portions and/or one of the second pressure receiving portions and one of the pressure receiving portions are inserted such that when the pressing portion acts on the first pressure receiving portion and/or the second pressure receiving portion and the pressure receiving portion of the locking member, a connection and engagement with the connecting object is made. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     (8) The connector can be a connector wherein each extending portion of the contacts is provided with a recess that accommodates the thickness of the housing. In this way, a stable connection that is resistant to the rocking motion of the connecting object in the insertion direction, the longitudinal pitch direction and the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector) so as to prevent the deflection, etc. of the connecting object even when the connector is mounted on a flexible board, e.g., an FPC, can be obtained while maintaining a low-profile height of 0.5 mm or less. 
     The object of the present invention can be achieved by a connector comprising a plurality of contacts  14 , a housing  12 , locking members  18 , and a pivoting member  16 , wherein fixtures  20  are arranged to reinforce a roof portion  125  of the housing  12  as a measure against the rocking motion in the thickness and longitudinal directions, the locking members  18  are engaged with the connecting object as a measure against the rocking motion in the insertion direction, the housing  12  is provided with a first recess portion  123  and a second recess portion  124  for reduction in the profile height of the connector  10 , and first connection portions  143  of the contacts  14  are arranged in the second recess portion  124 , such that the deflection, etc. of the connecting object is prevented when the connector  10  is mounted on a flexible board  80 , e.g., an FPC  70 . 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A feature of the present invention is a connector  10  for detachably plugging a connecting object, comprising a plurality of contacts  14 , each having a contact portion for contacting the connecting object, and a pressure receiving portion subjected to the action of a pivoting member  16 ; a housing  12  holding and arranging the contacts  14  and having a fitting opening  5  for inserting the connecting object; and the pivoting member  16  being pivotally mounted on the side of the housing  12  opposite from the fitting opening  5 ; wherein the connecting object is provided with anchoring portions  72 ; locking members  18 , each of which has an engaging portion  181  for engaging with one of the anchoring portions  72  each; a connection portion  183  for connecting to a board  80 ; an elastic portion  184  and a fulcrum portion  185  provided between the engaging portion  181  and the connection portion  183 ; and a pressure receiving portion  186  extending from the elastic portion  184  in the direction opposite from that of the engaging portion  181 , are arranged at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction; the housing  12  is provided with a first recess portion  123  that allows the pressure receiving portions of the contacts  14  to be moved, a second recess portion  124  on the lower side of the housing on the fitting opening  5  side, and grooves  126  on the upper side of the housing on the fitting opening  5  side; fixtures  20 , each of which has an engaging portion  202  for engaging with one groove  126  each and a connection portion  201  for connecting to the board  80 , are arranged on the fitting opening  5  side; and each contact  14  is at least provided with a first elastic portion  144  and a first fulcrum portion  145  provided between a first contact portion  141 , which is the contact portion, and a first connection portion  143  such that the first contact portion  141 , the first elastic portion  144 , the first fulcrum portion  145  and the first connection portion  143  are arranged roughly in a U-shape, and with a first pressure receiving portion  146 , which is the pressure receiving portion, extending from the first elastic portion  144  in the direction opposite from the first contact portion  141 . 
     In other words, the fixtures  20  are arranged to reinforce the roof portion  125  of the housing  12  as a measure against the rocking motion in the upward and longitudinal pitch directions, the locking members  18  are engaged with the connecting object as a measure against the rocking motion in the insertion direction, the housing  12  is provided with the first recess portion  123  and the second recess portion  124  to allow a reduction in profile height of the connector  10 , and the first connection portions  143  of the contacts  14  are arranged in the second recess portion  124 , so that the deflection, etc. of the connecting object is prevented even when the connector  10  is mounted on the flexible board  80 , e.g., an FPC  70 . 
       FIG. 1(A)  is a perspective view of the connector and the FPC, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the pivoting member opened;  FIG. 1(B)  is a perspective view of the connector, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the pivoting member closed;  FIG. 1(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector, cut along a certain portion of the contact, with the pivoting member closed; and  FIG. 1(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector, cut along the fixture, with the pivoting member closed.  FIG. 2(A)  is a perspective view of the connector mounted on the board, viewed from above the fitting opening, with the FPC inserted and the pivoting member closed;  FIG. 2(B)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along a certain portion of the contact;  FIG. 2(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along the locking member; and  FIG. 2(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the state of  FIG. 2(A) , cut along the fixture.  FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the fixtures at the left and right ends in the longitudinal pitch direction.  FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the contact; and  FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the locking member.  FIG. 6(A)  is a perspective view of the housing, viewed from above the fitting opening;  FIG. 6(B)  is a perspective view of the housing turned upside down, viewed from above the fitting opening;  FIG. 6(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the housing, cut along a certain portion of the insertion hole for the contact; and  FIG. 6(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the housing, cut along a certain portion of the insertion hole for the locking member.  FIG. 7(A)  is a perspective view of the pivoting member, viewed from the direction of the fitting opening;  FIG. 7(B)  is a perspective view of the pivoting member, viewed from the opposite side of the fitting opening;  FIG. 7(C)  is a cross-sectional view of the pivoting member, cut along a certain portion of the anchoring hole into which the pressure receiving portion of the contact is inserted; and  FIG. 7(D)  is a cross-sectional view of the pivoting member, cut along a certain portion of the anchoring hole into which the pressure receiving portion of the locking member is inserted.  FIGS. 8(A)  to (E) are explanatory views of the motions of the pressing portion and the rotation axis during the rotation of the pivoting member; and  FIG. 8(F)  is an explanatory view of the profile-height-reducing effect when the rotation axis (dent) is not provided in the contact. 
     The connector  10  of the present embodiment comprises the plurality of contacts (contacts  14 ), the housing  12 , the pivoting member  16 , the locking members  18 , and the fixtures  20 . 
     First, the connecting object to be inserted into the fitting opening  5  of the connector  10  is described, followed by an explanation of the connector  10  of the present invention. Examples of the connecting object include the FPC  70 , FFC, thin coaxial cable, etc. The present embodiment explains the case where the FPC  70  is used. The FPC  70  comprises at least a contact portion for contacting the first contact portions  141  of the contacts  14 , a pattern leading from the contact portion to the circuit, and anchoring portions  72  for engaging with the engaging portions  181  of the locking members  18 . In the present embodiment, the FPC  70  is provided with the contact portion only on its top surface. However, depending on, for example, the requests of the customer, the contact portion may be provided on both the top and the bottom surfaces. The anchoring portions  72  may be of any shape as long as they can be engaged with the engaging portions  181  of the locking members  18 . In the present embodiment, the anchoring portions  72  may be U-shaped recesses, as shown in  FIG. 1(A) , or through-holes. The through-holes may be blind holes, depending on the specifications. 
     Next, the board  80  on which the connector  10  is mounted is described. The board  80  includes a hard board or FPC (flexible printed circuit board). Here, the description is given using the example of the hard board  80 . The board  80  comprises at least a land to be connected to the first connection portions  143  of the contacts  14 , and a pattern leading from the land to the circuit. 
     Hereinafter, the components of the connector  10  of the present invention are described with reference to the drawings. 
     First, the fixtures  20  are described. The fixtures  20  are made of metal and manufactured by a widely known pressing technique. Examples of the material of the fixtures  20 , which is required to have springiness, moldability, etc., include brass, beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, etc. 
     The fixtures  20  are arranged to reinforce the housing  12  as a measure against the rocking motion of the connecting object in the upward direction (the thickness direction of the connector  10 ). The fixtures  20  have at least the connection portions  201  for connecting to the board  80  and the engaging portions  202  for engaging with the grooves  126  of the housing  12 . In the present embodiment, the connection portions  201  and the engaging portions  202  are arranged roughly in an L-shape. Taking into account the measures against the rocking motion of the FPC  70 , which is the connecting object, in the upward direction, the connection portions  201  are preferably arranged at the closest possible location to the engaging portions  202  since the strength against the upward rocking motion is greater when the connection portions  201  mounted on the board  80  are close to the engaging portions  202 . The shape/size and location of the engaging portions  202  are properly designed in consideration of these measures against rocking motion, the mounting strength, workability, etc. In the present embodiment, the connection portions  201  are of a surface mount (SMT) type in consideration of the mounting density, etc., but may also be of a DIP type. 
     In the present embodiment, the two fixtures  20  are symmetrically arranged at either end of the housing  12  in the longitudinal pitch direction. However, a fixture  20  the engaging portions  202  of which are connected and which is therefore formed as one piece may also be used, as long as the rocking motion measures described above are realized. Of course, in case the fixture  20  which is formed in one piece is used, the grooves  126  at either end of the housing  12  in the longitudinal pitch direction are also connected. 
     In the present embodiment, the fixtures  20  are provided with extending portions  204  extending from the vicinity of the connection portions  201 , and the extending portions  204  are provided with fixing portions  203  for fixing the fixtures  20  to the housing  12 . The fixing portions  203  may be at any location as long as they can fix the fixtures  20  to the housing  12 . If the fixtures  20  have arrow-head members press-fitted onto either side of the connection portion  201 , the extending portions  204  are not necessary. 
     The connection portions  201  of the fixtures  20  are positioned in consideration of the mounting strength on the board  80  and the balance with the locking members  18 . Taking into account the measures against the rocking motion of the FPC  70  in the upward direction and the mounting strength in a fine balance with the board  80 , the connection portions  201  are preferably provided on the fitting opening  5  side of the housing  12 . 
     Next, the contacts  14  are described. The contacts  14  are made of metal and manufactured by a widely known pressing technique. Examples of the material of the contacts  14 , which is required to have springiness, conductivity, etc., include brass, beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, etc. 
     In the present embodiment, the contacts  14 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , have roughly a transverse H-shape. The contacts  14  comprise at least the first contact portions  141  for contacting the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like; the first connection portions  143  for connecting to the board  80 ; the first fixing portions  142  for fixing to the housing  12 ; the first elastic portions  144  and the first fulcrum portions  145  provided between the first contact portions  141  and the first connection portions  143 ; and the first pressure receiving portions  146  extending from the first elastic portions  144  in the direction opposite from the first contact portions  141 . In the present embodiment, the contacts  14  further comprise first extending portions  147  extending from the first fulcrum portions  145  in such a manner as to face the first pressure receiving portions  146 ; and the recess portions  148  cut into the sides of the extending portions  147  facing the board  80 . Depending on the specifications of the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like, additional contact portions may be provided between the first fulcrum portions  145  and the first connection portions  143  in positions opposite the first contact portions  141  so as to be in contact with the FPC  70  or FFC. In this case, the two upper and lower contact portions, i.e., the two first contact portions  141 , are provided so as to sandwich the FPC, FFC, or the like, which allows firm contact with the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like. The upper first contact portions  141  (upper side in  FIG. 4 ), the first elastic portions  144 , the first fulcrum portions  145 , and the first connection portions  143  are arranged roughly in a U-shape. The first contact portions  141  have a convex shape for easy contact with the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like. In the present embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 4 , the first connection portions  143  are of a surface mount (SMT) type, but may also be of a DIP type. In other words, the first connection portions  143  of the contacts  14  are arranged in the second recess portion  124  of the housing  12 . By the first connection portions  143  being arranged in the second recess portion  124 , the FPC  70  can be prevented from deflecting when the connector  10  is mounted on the flexible board  80 , e.g., the FPC. 
     When the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like is inserted, the first fulcrum portions  145 , the first elastic portions  144 , and the first pressure receiving portions  146  exert the following effects. When the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16  are rotated to act on the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  after the FPC  70  or FFC is inserted into the fitting opening  5  of the housing  12 , the first pressure receiving portions  146  are raised by the pressing portions  163 . Then, using the first fulcrum portions  145  of the contacts  14  as a fulcrum, the first elastic portions  144  of the contacts  14  tilt toward the first contact portions  141  so that the first contact portions  141  are pressed onto the FPC  70  or FFC. The sizes and shapes of the first fulcrum portions  145 , the first elastic portions  144 , and the first pressure receiving portions  146  are properly designed to exert the above effects. 
     In the present embodiment, the contacts  14  further comprise the first extending portions  147  extending from the first fulcrum portions  145  so as to face the first pressure receiving portions  146 ; and the recess portions  148  cut into the first extending portions  147  on the side facing the board  80 . In the present embodiment, the first fixing portions  142  are provided on the extending portions  147  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The first fixing portions  142  may be at any location as long as they can be fixed to the housing  12  and a sufficient holding strength on the housing  12  is provided. Therefore, the first extending portions  147  do not necessarily have to be provided. Even if provided, the length of the extending portions  147  may be shorter than that in the present embodiment and end at the first fixing portions  142 . 
     The recess portions  148  of the contacts  14  accommodate the thick part of the housing  12  to allow a reduction in profile height. The size/shape of the recess portions  148  is properly designed in consideration of such role, reduction in profile height of the connector, thickness of the housing  12 , workability, strength, etc. 
     Further, it is preferable that the ends of the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  are provided with first protruding portions  149  to prevent the center part of the pivoting member  16  from bulging due to a strong repulsion force working against the rotation of the pivoting member  16  when the pressure receiving portions  163  of the pivoting member  16  are rotated to act on the pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14 . The first protruding portions  149  may be of any size as long as this role is served, and they are properly designed so as to catch the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16 . 
     Next, the locking members  18  are described. The locking members  18  are made of metal and manufactured by a widely known pressing technique. Examples of the material of the locking members  18 , which is required to have springiness, conductivity, etc., include brass, beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, etc. 
     In the present embodiment, the locking members  18 , as shown in  FIG. 5 , have roughly a transverse h-shape. The locking members  18  comprise at least, at one end, the engaging portions  181  for engaging with the anchoring portion  72  of the FPC  70 ; the connection portions  183  for connecting to the board  80 ; the fixing portions  182  for fixing to the housing  12 ; the elastic portions  184  and the fulcrum portions  185  provided between the engaging portions  181  and the connection portions  183 ; and the pressure receiving portions  186  extending from the elastic portions  184  in the direction opposite from the engaging portions  181 . 
     In the present embodiment, the engaging portions  181 , the elastic portions  184 , the fulcrum portions  185 , and the connection portions  183  are arranged roughly in the form of a crank. In the present embodiment, the connection portions  183  are of a surface mount (SMT) type, but may also be of a DIP type. In the present embodiment, the connection portions  183  are arranged on the side of the housing  12  opposite from the fitting opening  5 . In other words, they are arranged on the side of the housing  12  opposite from the connection portions  201  of the fixtures  20  to balance the mounting strength on the board. 
     When the FPC  70  is inserted, the elastic portions  184 , the fulcrum portions  185 , and the pressure receiving portions  186  function as a so-called ZIF structure to which no insertion force is applied. When the FPC  70  is inserted into the fitting opening  5  of the housing  12 , the pivoting member  16  is in open state. After the FPC  70  is inserted, the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16  are tilted, as shown in  FIG. 2(B) , between the pressure receiving portions  186  and the connection portions  183  of the locking members  18 . When the pressure receiving portions  186  are raised (upward direction in the drawings) by the pressing portions  163 , the elastic portions  184  of the locking members  18  tilt toward the engaging portions  181 , using the fulcrum portions  185  of the locking members  18  as a fulcrum. Thus, the engaging portions  183  are pressed down to engage with the anchoring portions  72  of the FPC  70  inserted in the fitting opening  5  of the housing  12 . The sizes and shapes of the elastic portions  184 , the fulcrum portions  185 , and the pressure receiving portions  186  are properly designed to exert the above effects. 
     The engaging portions  181  of the locking members  18  are provided in positions corresponding to the anchoring portions  72  of the FPC  70 , and the locking members  18  are fixed to the housing  12  by means of press-fitting, engagement (lance), or the like to engage the engaging portions  181  with the anchoring portions  72 . The size of the engaging portions  181  is properly designed to meet a required holding force, and the engaging portions  181  may be of any shape as long as they can be engaged with the anchoring portions  72  of the FPC  70 . In the present embodiment, taking into account the holding force, etc., the engaging portions  181  are formed roughly into a right triangle shape so that vertical faces thereof come into contact with faces of the anchoring portions  72  of the FPC  70 . 
     In the present embodiment, the locking members  18  have roughly a transverse h-shape. However, the locking members  18  may be provided with extending portions (not shown) extending from the fulcrum portions  185  in the direction opposite from the engaging portions  181 . However, in consideration of engageability, the length to the end of the engaging portions  181  and the relation to the length of the extending portions are properly designed so that the extending portions are shorter than the engaging portions  181  such that when the locking members  18  are engaged with the FPC  70 , the engaging portions  181  do not come into contact with the extending portions, and that a sufficient movement of the engaging portions  181  is ensured. 
     The fixing portions  182  are only required to be fixed to the housing  12 . In the present embodiment, the fixing portions  182  are provided in the vicinity of the fulcrum portions  185  between the fulcrum portions  185  and the connection portions  183 . The location of the fixing portions  182  is properly designed in consideration of the holding force, the reduction in profile height, strength, workability, etc. In the present embodiment, being fixed by press-fitting, the fixing portions  182  are provided with convex portions, as shown in  FIG. 5 , of a size that is matched to the holding force on the housing  12 , etc. 
     Further, the ends of the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  may be provided with protruding portions to prevent the center part of the pivoting member  16  from bulging due to it resisting against a strong repulsion force working against the rotation of the pivoting member  16 . The protruding portions are preferably provided at either the contacts  14  or the locking members  18  or at all of them. 
     Next, the housing  12  is described. The housing  12  is electrically insulating plastic and it is manufactured by a widely known injection molding technique. The material thereof is properly selected in consideration of dimensional stability, workability, cost, etc., and examples thereof typically include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyamides (66PA, 46PA), liquid crystal polymers (LCP), polycarbonates (PC), synthetic materials thereof, etc. 
     The housing  12  is provided with insertion grooves  121 ,  122  into which a required number of contacts  14  and locking members  18  is mounted and fixed by means of press-fitting, engagement (lance), welding, or the like. In the present embodiment, the insertion grooves  122  into which the locking members  18  are inserted are provided at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction, and a required number of insertion grooves  121  into which the contacts  14  are inserted is provided between the insertion grooves  122 . The insertion grooves  121 ,  122 , which may be of any shape/size as long as the contacts  14  and the locking members  18  can be inserted/held, are properly designed in consideration of connection stability, holding force on the housing  12 , strength, workability, etc. 
     Further, at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction bearings  127  are provided on which a shaft  162  of the pivoting member  16  is pivotally mounted. The bearings  127 , which may be of any shape and size as long as the shaft  162  of the pivoting member  16  can be pivotally mounted, are properly designed in consideration of this role, the strength and size of the housing  12 , etc. A certain clearance is provided between the shaft  162  and the bearings  127 . In the present embodiment, the clearance is in the range of 0.03 to 0.08 mm. 
     The housing  12  is provided with the roof portion  125  that covers the contact portions  141  of the contacts  14 . The roof portion  125  enhances the dust resistance of the contacts  14 . The size and shape thereof are properly designed in consideration of this role, the strength of the housing  12 , pivotability and strength of the pivoting member  16 , etc. Taking into account the reduction in profile height, the thickness of the housing  12  is realized as thin as possible. 
     The housing  12  is provided at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction with the grooves  126  for engaging with the engaging portions  202  of the fixtures  20 , on the fitting opening  5  side. The grooves  126  are engaged with the engaging portions  202  of the fixtures  20  to complement the housing  12  (roof portion  125 ) so as to provide a measure against the rocking motion of the FPC  70  in the upward direction. The grooves  126  may be of any shape/size as long as they can be engaged with the engaging portions  202  of the fixtures  20  and the reduction in profile height can be achieved. Depending on the shape/size of the engaging portions  202 , the grooves  126  are properly designed in consideration of the measures against rocking motion, the reduction in profile height, strength, workability, etc. Of course, in case the fixture  20  the engaging portions  202  of which are connected and which is therefore formed as one piece is used, the grooves  126  are connected in the longitudinal pitch direction. 
     The housing  12  is provided with two recess portions designed to achieve a reduction in the profile height of the connector  10 : a first recess portion  123  and a second recess portion  124 . The first recess portion  123  accommodates the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  when they are raised by the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16 ; and it also accommodates the pivoting member  16 . In the present embodiment, in consideration of strength, workability, etc., all parts that correspond to the contacts  14  and the locking members  18  are cut away. 
     The second recess portion  124  is provided, on the fitting opening  5  side, on the side opposite from the roof portion  125 . The second recess portion  124  accommodates the parts of the contacts  14  from the first fulcrum portions  145  to the first connection portions  143 . In the present embodiment, in consideration of strength, workability, etc., all parts that correspond to the contacts  14  are cut away. However, the second recess portion  124  is only required to accommodate the parts of the contacts  14  from the first fulcrum portions  145  to the first connection portions  143 . Therefore, the second recess portion  124  may also be realized as slit-shaped recesses for the respective contacts  14 . 
     Finally, the pivoting member  16  is described. The pivoting member  16  is electrically insulating plastic and it is manufactured by a widely known injection molding technique. The material thereof is properly selected in consideration of dimensional stability, workability, cost, etc., and examples thereof typically include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyamides (66PA, 46PA), liquid crystal polymers (LCP), polycarbonates (PC), synthetic materials thereof, etc. 
     The pivoting member  16  mainly comprises the shaft  162  which is pivotally mounted on the housing  12 ; the pressing portions  163 ,  163  for pressing on the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18 , and the separate individual anchoring holes  164 ,  164  which are segmented by the partition walls  165  and into which the first pressure receiving portions  146  and the pressure receiving portions  186  are inserted. The shaft  162  is a rotation axis for rotating the pivoting member  16 , and the pivoting member  16  is properly pivotally mounted at either end of the housing  12  in the longitudinal pitch direction. The shaft  162 , which may be of any shape and size as long as the pivoting member  16  can be pivotally mounted, is properly designed in consideration of this role, the strength and size of the housing  12 , etc. A certain clearance is provided between the shaft  162  and the bearings  127 . In the present embodiment, the clearance is in the range of 0.03 to 0.08 mm. Further, at either end in the longitudinal pitch direction, locking portions may be provided to engage with the housing  12  so as to prevent the pivoting member  16  from being raised in the height direction (upward direction in the drawings) when the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  are pressed. The locking portions, if provided, may be of any shape, size, and the like as long as they can be engaged with the housing  12 , and they are properly designed in consideration of the aforementioned role, the size and strength of the connector, etc. 
     The pressing portions  163 , which press on the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and on the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18 , are preferably of elongated shape. In the present embodiment, they are of oval shape. Due to the pressing portions  163  having such an oval shape, the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  are raised due to the change in size of the pressing portions  163  when the pressing portions  163  are rotated to act on the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18 . Then, the first contact portions  141  of the contacts  14  are pressed onto the FPC  70  or FFC, and the engaging portions  181  of the locking members  18  are engaged. The pressing portions  163  may be of any shape as long as they can be rotated to act on the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portion  186  of the locking members  18 , and as long as the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  are raised due to a difference in size between the major and the minor axes. 
     The pivoting member  16  is provided with an operating portion  161  for rotating the pivoting member  16 . The operating portion  161  controls the pivoting member  16  upon the insertion/removal of the FPC  70 , FFC, or the like. The shape/size of the operating portion  161  is properly designed in consideration of operability, reduction in profile height, strength, workability, etc. 
     Further, since the repulsion force working against the rotation of the pivoting member  16  is strong during the rotation of the pivoting member  16 , the anchoring holes  164  into which the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  are inserted are provided separately and individually by the partition walls  165  being formed. The anchoring holes  164  which are separately and individually provided enhance the strength of the pivoting member  16  and prevent the deformation of the pivoting member  16  during rotation. The aforementioned pivoting member  16  is pivotally mounted on the side of the housing  12  opposite from the fitting opening  5 . The anchoring holes  164  and the partition walls  165 , which may be of any shape/size as long as the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  can be inserted into the anchoring holes  164 , are properly designed in consideration of the enhancement of strength, prevention of deformation during rotation, strength, workability, etc. 
     Further, the first protruding portions  149  and/or the protruding portions provided at the ends of the first pressure receiving portions  146  of the contacts  14  and/or the pressure receiving portions  186  of the locking members  18  are engaged with the anchoring holes  164  so as to prevent the center part of the pivoting member  16  from bulging due to the strong repulsion force working against the rotation of the pivoting member  16  when the pivoting member  16  is rotated. By providing the anchoring holes  164  separately and individually, the strength of the pivoting member  16  is enhanced and the deformation of the pivoting member  16  during rotation is prevented. 
     In positions corresponding to the locking members  18 , the pivoting member  16  is provided with recesses  166  on the faces that are in contact with the locking members  18  from the fulcrum portions  185  to the connection portions  183 . The recesses  166  are provided for the same purpose as the recess portions  148  of the contacts  14 . In other words, since the locking members  18  contact the pivoting member  16  with the connection portions  183 , the locking members  18  cannot be provided with recesses (accommodations). Instead, the pivoting member  16  is provided with recesses (accommodations). The recesses  166 , which accommodate the locking members  18  from the fulcrum portions  185  to the connection portions  183  when the pivoting member  16  is closed, are designed to achieve a reduction in profile height. The shape/size of the recesses  166  is properly designed in consideration of this role, the reduction in profile height, strength, workability, etc. under the condition that the locking members  18  from the fulcrum portions  185  to the connection portions  183  can be accommodated. 
     Now, the manner of the movement and rotation of the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16  is described with reference to  FIGS. 8(A) to 8(E) . Specifically, the rotation axes of the pressing portions  163  of the pivoting member  16  are rotated while moving within the clearance between the shaft  162  of the pivoting member  16  and the bearings  127  of the housing  12 . 
       FIG. 8(A)  shows the connector  10  prior to being connected to the connecting object. Here, the lower ends  30  of the pressing portions  163  are positioned between first protruding portions  149  of the first pressure receiving portions  146  and the first extending portions  147 . 
       FIG. 8(B)  shows that when the operating portion  161  is rotated (in clockwise direction in the drawing), the pressing portions  163  are moved in the direction opposite from the fitting opening  5  so that the lower ends  30  of the pressing portions  163  are sandwiched between the first protruding portions  149  of the first pressure receiving portions  146  and the first extending portions  147 . 
       FIG. 8(C)  shows that when the operating portion  161  is further rotated, the pressing portions  163  are rotated around their centers as the rotation axis  34  in the position shown in  FIG. 8(B) . 
       FIG. 8(D)  shows that when the operating portion  161  is further rotated, the pressing portions  163  are rotated around their centers as the rotation axis  34  in the position shown in  FIG. 8(C)  so that the pressing portions  163  are substantially vertical between the first pressure receiving portions  146  and the first extending portions  147  and the rotation axis  34  moves toward the upper ends  32  which have come into contact with the first protruding portions  149 . 
       FIG. 8(E)  shows that when the operating portion  161  is further rotated, the pressing portions  163  are rotated around the upper ends  32  which are in contact with the first protruding portions  149  in the position in FIG. ( 8 D) so that the pressing portions  163  are engaged in a state where they are caught by the first protruding portion  149 . 
     Specifically, the pressing portions  163  are first moved, then rotated, and further rotated so that the rotation axis  34  is shifted, and they thus perform a space-saving and compact pivotal movement (rotation). 
     In comparison to a conventional connector wherein the rotation axis of the pressing portions  163  is provided in the contacts (and wherein it is necessary to make the contacts thicker by the depth of the rotation axis (dent) inside the first extending portions  147 ), the space-saving and compact pivotal movement (rotation) (the pressing portions  163  are rotated while moving within the clearance between the shaft  162  and the bearings  127 ) allows a reduction in profile height by the depth of the rotation axis (dent) in the first extending portions  147  and a reduction of the load on the first pressure receiving portion  146 . By the reduction in load, the first pressure receiving portions  146  can be improved in durability and reduced in size in the width direction (the extension direction of the connection portion). Simply digging a recess for the pressing portions  163  into the first extending portions  147  weakens the strength of the first extending portions  147 , and increasing the thickness of the first extending portions  147  so that the rotation axis  34  can be provided in the contacts reduces the space between the first extending portions  147  and the first pressure receiving portions  146  so that the insertion (mounting) of the pressing portions  163  becomes impossible. In order to secure the space for inserting the pressure receiving portions  163 , the thickness of the first extending portions  147 , as shown in  FIG. 8(F) , needs to be increased by a dimension A, and the space between the first extending portions  147  and the first pressure receiving portions  146  needs to be expanded by the dimension A. In other words, by not providing a fixed rotation axis, the height is reduced by the dimension A. 
     Hereinafter, a connector (not shown) with two types of contacts arranged in an alternating manner is described. It is a connector wherein the above-described contacts  14  are replaced by first contacts and the locking members  18  by second contacts as follows. The first contacts are inserted into the housing  12  from the side of the fitting opening  5  and the second contacts from the side opposite from the fitting opening  5  in an alternating manner. The locking members  18  are replaced by the second contacts, the engaging portions  181  being replaced by second contact portions, the fixing portions  182  by second fixing portions, the connection portions  183  by second connection portions, the elastic portions  184  by second elastic portions, the fulcrum portions  185  by second fulcrum portions, and the pressure receiving portions  186  by second pressure receiving portions. When such second contacts are used, the pivoting member  16  is further provided with recesses in positions corresponding to the second contacts. The second contacts may be further provided with second extending portions extending from the second fulcrum portions in a direction facing the second contact portions. The shape/size of the second contact portions is the same as that of the first contact portions  141 . 
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
     The present invention relates to a connector used for communication equipment, electric devices, or electronic appliances, such as mobile terminals, projectors, television sets, etc., and it relates particularly to measures against the rocking motion of a connecting object in insertion direction, longitudinal pitch direction or upward direction, which are realized with a simple structure designed to achieve a connector with a flatter profile.