Testing device of underwater plugging connector and control method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses an underwater plugging technology of a watertight connector, and aims to provide a test device of an underwater plugging connector and a control method thereof, and the key points of the technical scheme are that the test device comprises a sealing test cabin which comprises a cylindrical cabin body, an upper end cover and a lower end cover; the plugging mechanical assembly comprises a guide structure arranged in the cabin body, a socket fixing plate is coaxially arranged in the middle of the cabin body, a support fixing plate is coaxially arranged in the cabin body close to the bottom, a plug moving plate located between the socket fixing plate and the support fixing plate is coaxially arranged in the cabin body, and a telescopic oil hydraulic cylinder is arranged on the top surface of the support fixing plate; an oil inlet and an oil outlet of the telescopic oil hydraulic cylinder are fixedly connected with oil pipes respectively, and the other ends of the oil pipes are fixedly connected with an external hydraulic oil source. The underwater motor assembly is used for generating simulated water flow in the cabin; the pressure adjusting module is used for simulating underwater pressure at different depths; the control system is used for controlling all the parts to operate cooperatively; the invention is suitable for the technical field of underwater plugging of the watertight connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an underwater insertion and removal technology for a watertight connector, and more specifically, to a testing apparatus and control method for an underwater insertion and removal connector. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of marine engineering and underwater equipment, underwater pluggable connectors are widely used in deep-sea exploration, underwater robots, and submarine cable connections. However, underwater connectors need to maintain reliable sealing and electrical performance under extreme pressure, corrosive seawater, and repeated plugging and unplugging operations. Current technologies for testing underwater connectors largely rely on real marine environments, which are costly and difficult to precisely control test conditions. Therefore, designing a test apparatus that can simulate deep-sea environments in a laboratory is of great significance.

[0003] In existing technologies, some devices can simulate water pressure, but the automation level of the insertion and removal operation is low, and they cannot simulate insertion and removal conditions in deep water environments, making it difficult to meet the requirements of modern high-precision testing. This invention aims to overcome these shortcomings and provide an efficient and accurate underwater insertion and removal connector testing device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this invention is to provide a test device and control method for underwater plug-in connectors.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a testing apparatus for underwater plug-in connectors, comprising:

[0006] Sealed test chamber: used to form a sealed underwater test environment to accommodate the connector under test; the sealed test chamber includes a cylindrical chamber body and an upper end cover and a lower end cover located at the top and bottom of the chamber body and fixedly connected by bolts, and sealing gaskets are provided at the connection between the upper end cover, the lower end cover and the chamber body.

[0007] Insertion / removal mechanism: Located within the chamber, the insertion / removal mechanism includes a guide structure fixedly disposed within the chamber. The guide structure comprises several fixed rods arranged in a ring along the central axis of the chamber, with one end of each rod fixedly connected to an upper end cover and the other end fixedly connected to a lower end cover. A socket fixing plate, fixed to the guide structure and with its bottom surface centered, is coaxially disposed within the center of the chamber. A bracket fixing plate, fixed to the guide structure, is coaxially disposed near the bottom of the chamber. A plug moving plate, located between the socket fixing plate and the bracket fixing plate and with its top surface centered, is coaxially disposed within the chamber and is used to fix the plug of the connector under test. The plug moving plate can move linearly along the guide structure. The plug moving plate is equipped with a displacement sensor for real-time monitoring of its displacement. A telescopic hydraulic cylinder is fixedly mounted in the middle of the top surface of the bracket fixing plate, and the end of the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the plug moving plate. The oil inlet and outlet of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder are respectively fixedly connected to oil pipes. The other end of the oil pipes passes through the bracket fixing plate and the lower end cover to the outside of the chamber and is fixedly connected to an external hydraulic oil source. The external hydraulic oil source supplies hydraulic oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder through the oil pipes to drive the piston rod to reciprocate, thereby enabling the connector under test to complete the insertion and removal test. The insertion and removal mechanical assembly is also equipped with a force sensor for monitoring the insertion and removal force during the insertion and removal process of the connector.

[0008] Underwater motor assembly: used to generate simulated water flow inside the chamber. The underwater motor assembly includes a motor bracket, which is fixedly installed in the middle of the lower end cover. A motor is mounted on the motor bracket. An agitator impeller is mounted on the output shaft of the motor via a coupling. The underwater motor assembly also includes a flow rate sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber for monitoring the liquid flow rate inside the sealed test chamber.

[0009] Pressure regulation module: used to simulate underwater pressure at different depths, including an air source, a pressure sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber to monitor the pressure inside the sealed test chamber, a booster pump connected to the air source and fixedly installed outside the sealed test chamber and adjusted according to the feedback signal of the pressure sensor, and a pipeline connected to the booster pump to deliver the air source to the inside of the sealed test chamber.

[0010] Control system: Used to control the coordinated operation of various parts in order to achieve data monitoring and control of the test process of the connector under test.

[0011] The present invention is further configured such that the socket fixing plate, the bracket fixing plate, and the plug moving plate have the same structure and size.

[0012] The present invention is further configured such that: the booster pump of the pressure regulating module has an air inlet, a water inlet, a water outlet and an air outlet, the air inlet is connected to an air source, the water inlet is connected to an external water source, the air outlet is connected to the inside of the sealing test chamber through a pipe, and the water outlet is connected to the inside of the sealing test chamber through a pipe.

[0013] The invention is further configured such that: the outer diameter of the oil pipe is connected to the perforation of the lower end cover of the sealing test chamber through a sealing assembly, the sealing assembly including a pressure-resistant sealing ring and a fixing flange, the pressure-resistant sealing ring being fitted onto the outer diameter of the oil pipe and tightly fitting the lower end cover of the sealing test chamber, and the fixing flange being fixed to the outside of the lower end cover of the sealing test chamber by bolts, so as to prevent liquid leakage in the sealing test chamber and to withstand the axial force of the oil pipe.

[0014] The present invention is further configured such that the motor in the underwater motor assembly is a waterproof motor, and its outer shell is made of corrosion-resistant material to adapt to the liquid environment inside the sealed test chamber.

[0015] A control method for an underwater pluggable connector testing device, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0016] S1. Preparations before the test: Check the sealing performance of the sealed test chamber, ensure that the sealing gaskets at the connection between the upper and lower end covers and the chamber are intact, check whether the connection between each fixing rod in the plug-in mechanical assembly and the upper and lower end covers is firm, confirm that the plug moving plate moves smoothly along the guide structure, check whether the motor and stirring impeller of the underwater motor assembly are installed firmly, and verify whether the air source, booster pump, pressure sensor and pipeline connection of the pressure regulating module are normal.

[0017] S2. First, fix the socket of the connector under test in the middle of the bottom surface of the socket fixing plate, and then fix the plug of the connector under test in the middle of the top surface of the plug moving plate, ensuring that the two are coaxially aligned.

[0018] S3. Close the upper and lower covers of the sealing test chamber and tighten them with bolts to form a sealed space in the sealing test chamber;

[0019] S4. Inject liquid into the sealing test chamber through the booster pump of the pressure regulating module until the sealing test chamber is full. During this period, monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor. When the pressure value reaches the preset initial pressure P0, stop the liquid injection.

[0020] S5. Next, start the booster pump of the pressure regulation module. According to the preset target water depth corresponding to the pressure value P1, pressurize the sealed test chamber through the air source and monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor in real time. When the pressure value reaches P1, stop pressurizing and maintain the pressure.

[0021] S6. Start the motor of the underwater motor assembly to drive the stirring impeller to rotate and generate simulated water flow. Adjust the motor speed through the motor speed controller to make the liquid flow rate reach the preset V1. At the same time, monitor the actual liquid flow rate V through the flow rate sensor installed in the chamber. Compare V with V1. If |V-V1|≤ΔV, maintain the current motor speed; if |V-V1|>ΔV, adjust the motor speed until the actual water flow rate meets the requirements.

[0022] S7. Start the external hydraulic oil source and supply oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder through the oil pipe, so that the drive piston rod moves upward, thereby driving the plug moving plate to move upward along the guide structure, so that the plug of the connector under test moves closer to the socket. During this process, the displacement S of the plug moving plate is monitored in real time by the displacement sensor set on the plug moving plate. When S reaches the preset approach displacement S1, the movement speed of the piston rod is reduced.

[0023] S8. Continue to drive the piston rod upward to make the plug and socket contact and connect. The force sensor set on the plugging and unplugging mechanical assembly monitors the plugging and unplugging force F during the plugging and unplugging process, and records the curve FS of the plugging and unplugging force changing with displacement. Compare this curve with the preset standard plugging curve F0-S and calculate the deviation value between the two curves. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K1, the plugging process is judged to be normal and the plugging continues to be completed. If the deviation value is > K1, the piston rod movement is stopped immediately, and the piston rod is controlled to drive the plug moving plate to move in the opposite direction to the initial position, and the abnormal information is recorded at the same time.

[0024] S9. After the plug and socket are fully connected, maintain this state for a period of time T1. During this period, continuously monitor the pressure value, water flow rate and electrical performance parameters of the connector in the sealed test chamber. If all parameters are within the preset normal range, proceed to S10. If any parameter exceeds the corresponding range, record the abnormal information and determine whether to terminate the test or make adjustments based on the type of abnormality.

[0025] S10. Control the external hydraulic oil source to supply oil in reverse, causing the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder to move downward, thereby driving the plug moving plate to move downward along the guide structure, separating the plug from the socket. During this process, the insertion and extraction force F' during the separation process is monitored by the force sensor, and the curve F'-S' of the insertion and extraction force changing with displacement is recorded. This curve is compared with the preset standard separation curve F0'-S', and the deviation value is calculated. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K2, the separation process is judged to be normal; if the deviation value is > K2, the movement is stopped immediately, and the abnormal information is recorded.

[0026] S11. After the plug moving plate returns to the initial position, shut off the external hydraulic oil source to stop the oil supply, and then stop the operation of the underwater motor assembly motor.

[0027] S12. Release the air source pressure in the sealing test chamber through the pressure regulation module, so that the pressure in the sealing test chamber gradually drops to the initial pressure P0, then drain the liquid in the sealing test chamber, open the sealing test chamber, and take out the connector to be tested.

[0028] The present invention is further configured such that: in step S9, the electrical performance parameters of the connector are continuously monitored, including insulation resistance and contact resistance. When the insulation resistance is greater than or equal to a preset insulation resistance threshold R1 and the contact resistance is less than or equal to a preset contact resistance threshold R2, the electrical performance parameters are determined to be normal. If the insulation resistance is less than R1 or the contact resistance is greater than R2, it is further detected whether the abnormality is instantaneous or continuous. If it is an instantaneous abnormality and the duration is less than or equal to a preset instantaneous abnormality allowable time T, the abnormality is recorded and monitoring continues. If it is a continuous abnormality or the duration of the instantaneous abnormality is greater than T, the test is stopped immediately and the abnormality information is recorded.

[0029] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0030] 1. Compared to existing technologies, the underwater plug-in connector testing device of this invention constructs a comprehensive and accurate underwater testing system through the collaborative efforts of multiple components. The sealed test chamber adopts a cylindrical structure, upper end cover, lower end cover, and sealing gasket design, which can reliably form a sealed underwater environment, avoiding liquid leakage from affecting test accuracy and providing a stable testing foundation for the connector under test. In the plug-in mechanical components, the guide structure ensures the linear movement of the plug moving plate, ensuring the coaxiality of the connector plug-in. Displacement and force sensors can monitor displacement and plug-in force in real time, providing accurate data for analyzing the connector plug-in performance. The telescopic hydraulic cylinder drive method provides stable power and can simulate different plug-in speed scenarios. The underwater motor component can generate simulated water flow, and combined with the flow velocity sensor, it can achieve precise control of water flow speed, restoring the real underwater water flow environment. The pressure regulation module accurately simulates the pressure at different water depths through pressure sensor feedback and booster pump adjustment, meeting diverse testing needs. The control system coordinates all parts to achieve integrated test data monitoring and control, greatly improving testing efficiency and reliability.

[0031] 2. In the underwater plug-in connector testing device of the present invention, the unified structural dimensions of the socket fixing plate, the bracket fixing plate, and the plug moving plate can reduce the types of component designs, lower mold development costs and production complexity, improve production efficiency, and facilitate mass production, thus shortening the production cycle. In addition, the same structural dimensions enhance the interchangeability of components, eliminating the need to distinguish between different fixing plates during assembly, reducing assembly errors, and improving assembly efficiency. In later maintenance, if a fixing plate is damaged, a component of the same specification can be directly replaced without the need for customized parts, reducing maintenance costs and time costs. Furthermore, the unified dimensions ensure higher coaxiality of the three components within the tank, avoiding jamming of the plug moving plate or misalignment of the connector due to size differences, further ensuring the stability and accuracy of the plug-in test.

[0032] 3. In this invention, the air inlet is connected to the air source, and the air outlet is connected to the sealed test chamber. The pressure inside the chamber can be precisely adjusted by injecting gas to simulate the air pressure environment at different water depths. The water inlet is connected to an external water source, and the water outlet is connected to the sealed test chamber, which allows for convenient injection of liquid into the chamber, quickly constructing the basic underwater test environment. This simplifies the overall structure of the test device and reduces the space occupied by the equipment. At the same time, during the test, the air inlet and water inlet operations can be flexibly switched according to the needs. For example, during the liquid injection stage, liquid can be injected quickly through the water inlet, and during the pressurization stage, pressure can be precisely increased through the air inlet, making the operation continuous and efficient. In addition, the multi-interface design makes the booster pump more functional, capable of meeting the testing needs of different liquid types and gas media, and improving the versatility and practicality of the device.

[0033] 4. The present invention has a simple and reasonable structure, is easy to manufacture and operate, avoids the defects of the prior art, and is suitable for promotion and application. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the test apparatus for the underwater plug-in connector of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the underwater motor assembly in the test device for the underwater plug-in connector of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 1-2 Reference numerals: 1. Cabin; 2. Upper end cover; 3. Lower end cover; 4. Fixing rod; 5. Socket fixing plate; 6. Bracket fixing plate; 7. Plug moving plate; 8. Telescopic hydraulic cylinder; 9. Oil pipe; 10. Motor bracket; 11. Motor; 12. Agitator impeller. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Reference Figure 1-2 The embodiments of the test apparatus and control method for the underwater plug-in connector of the present invention are further described.

[0038] For ease of explanation, spatial relative terms such as “up,” “down,” “left,” and “right” are used in the embodiments to describe the relationship of one element or feature shown in the figures relative to another element or feature. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations shown in the figures, spatial terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, an element described as being “down” of other elements or features would be positioned “up” of those other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary term “down” can encompass both up and down orientations. The device may be positioned in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0039] Moreover, relational terms such as “first” and “second” are used merely to distinguish one component from another that has the same name, without necessarily requiring or implying any such actual relationship or order between the components.

[0040] Figures 1 to 2 The apparatus shown is a test device for an underwater pluggable connector, comprising:

[0041] Sealed test chamber: used to form a sealed underwater test environment to accommodate the connector under test; the sealed test chamber includes a cylindrical chamber 1 and an upper end cover 2 and a lower end cover 3 located at the top and bottom of the chamber 1 and fixedly connected by bolts, and a sealing gasket is provided at the connection between the upper end cover 2, the lower end cover 3 and the chamber 1.

[0042] Insertion / removal mechanism: Located within the chamber 1, the insertion / removal mechanism includes a guide structure fixedly installed within the chamber 1. The guide structure consists of several fixed rods 4 arranged in a ring along the central axis of the chamber 1, with one end of each fixed rod 4 fixedly connected to the upper end cover 2 and the other end fixedly connected to the lower end cover 3. A socket fixing plate 5, fixed to the guide structure and with its bottom center fixed, is coaxially installed in the center of the chamber 1. A bracket fixing plate 6, fixed to the guide structure, is coaxially installed near the bottom of the chamber 1. A plug moving plate 7, located between the socket fixing plate 5 and the bracket fixing plate 6 and with its top center fixed, is coaxially installed in the chamber 1. The plug moving plate 7 can move linearly along the guide structure and is equipped with a device for real-time monitoring of its displacement. A displacement sensor is provided. A telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 is fixedly installed in the middle of the top surface of the bracket fixing plate 6. The end of the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the plug moving plate 7. The oil inlet and oil outlet of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 are respectively fixedly connected to oil pipes 9. The other end of the oil pipes 9 passes through the bracket fixing plate 6 and the lower end cover 3 to the outside of the cabin 1 and is fixedly connected to an external hydraulic oil source. The external hydraulic oil source provides hydraulic oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 through the oil pipes 9 to drive the piston rod to reciprocate, thereby enabling the connector under test to complete the insertion and removal test. A force sensor for monitoring the insertion and removal force during the insertion and removal process of the connector is also provided on the insertion and removal mechanical assembly. The socket fixing plate 5 and the plug moving plate 7 are provided to ensure that the connector under test can be firmly installed in the cabin 1 and will not be offset or shaken due to external forces during the insertion and removal process.

[0043] Underwater motor assembly: used to generate simulated water flow inside the chamber. The underwater motor assembly includes a motor bracket 10, which is fixedly installed in the middle of the lower end cover 3. A motor 11 is installed on the motor bracket 10. An agitator impeller 12 is installed on the output shaft of the motor 11 through a coupling. The underwater motor assembly also includes a flow rate sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber for monitoring the liquid flow rate inside the sealed test chamber.

[0044] Pressure regulation module: used to simulate underwater pressure at different depths, including an air source, a pressure sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber to monitor the pressure inside the sealed test chamber, a booster pump connected to the air source and fixedly installed outside the sealed test chamber and adjusted according to the feedback signal of the pressure sensor, and a pipeline connected to the booster pump to deliver the air source to the inside of the sealed test chamber.

[0045] Control system: Used to control the coordinated operation of various parts in order to achieve data monitoring and control of the test process of the connector under test;

[0046] Through multi-component collaboration, a comprehensive and precise underwater testing system is constructed. The sealed test chamber adopts a cylindrical structure, upper end cover 2, lower end cover 3, and sealing gasket design, which can reliably form a sealed underwater environment, avoiding liquid leakage from affecting test accuracy and providing a stable test foundation for the connector under test. It can also prevent external air and other impurities from entering the chamber 1. In the insertion and removal mechanical component, the guide structure ensures the linear movement of the plug moving plate 7, ensuring the coaxiality of the connector insertion and removal. Displacement sensors and force sensors can monitor displacement and insertion and removal forces in real time, providing accurate data for analyzing the connector insertion and removal performance. The telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 has stable power and can simulate different insertion and removal speed scenarios. The underwater motor component can generate simulated water flow, and combined with the flow velocity sensor, it can achieve precise control of water flow speed, restoring the real underwater water flow environment. The pressure regulation module accurately simulates the pressure at different water depths through pressure sensor feedback and booster pump adjustment, meeting diverse test requirements. The control system coordinates all parts to achieve integrated test data monitoring and control, greatly improving test efficiency and reliability.

[0047] The socket fixing plate 5, the bracket fixing plate 6, and the plug moving plate 7 have the same structure and dimensions.

[0048] Uniform structural dimensions reduce the variety of component designs, lower mold development costs and production complexity, improve production efficiency, and facilitate mass production while shortening the production cycle. Furthermore, consistent structural dimensions enhance component interchangeability, eliminating the need to differentiate between different mounting plates during assembly, reducing assembly errors, and improving assembly efficiency. During later maintenance, if a mounting plate is damaged, a component of the same specification can be directly replaced without customizing suitable parts, reducing maintenance costs and time. In addition, uniform dimensions ensure higher coaxiality of the three components within the housing 1, preventing jamming of the plug moving plate 7 or misalignment of the connector due to size differences, further ensuring the stability and accuracy of insertion and removal tests.

[0049] The booster pump of the pressure regulating module has an air inlet, a water inlet, a water outlet, and an air outlet. The air inlet is connected to an air source, the water inlet is connected to an external water source, the air outlet is connected to the inside of the sealed test chamber through a pipe, and the water outlet is connected to the inside of the sealed test chamber through a pipe.

[0050] The air inlet connects to the air source, and the air outlet connects to the sealed test chamber. This allows for precise adjustment of the chamber pressure by injecting gas, simulating pressure environments at different water depths. The water inlet connects to an external water source, and the water outlet connects to the sealed test chamber, enabling convenient injection of liquid into the chamber to quickly establish the basic underwater testing environment. This simplifies the overall structure of the testing device and reduces the space occupied by the equipment. Furthermore, during testing, air and water intake operations can be flexibly switched as needed. For example, during the liquid injection phase, liquid can be rapidly injected through the water inlet, and during the pressurization phase, precise pressurization can be achieved through the air inlet, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. In addition, the multi-interface design makes the booster pump more versatile, capable of handling testing requirements for different liquid types and gas media, thus enhancing the device's versatility and practicality.

[0051] The outer diameter of the oil pipe 9 is connected to the perforation of the lower end cover 3 of the sealing test chamber through a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly includes a pressure-resistant sealing ring and a fixing flange. The pressure-resistant sealing ring is fitted onto the outer diameter of the oil pipe 9 and fits tightly against the lower end cover 3 of the sealing test chamber. The fixing flange is fixed to the outside of the lower end cover 3 of the sealing test chamber by bolts to prevent liquid leakage in the sealing test chamber and to withstand the axial force of the oil pipe 9.

[0052] The pressure-resistant sealing ring is fitted around the oil pipe 9 and fits tightly against the lower end cover 3. Its excellent sealing performance prevents liquid leakage from the perforation, avoiding pressure instability and ensuring the accuracy of pressure simulation. It also prevents liquid contamination of external equipment. The fixing flange is bolted to the outside of the lower end cover 3, firmly securing the oil pipe 9 and bearing the axial force generated by the oil pipe 9 under oil pressure. This prevents displacement of the oil pipe 9 from affecting the normal operation of the insertion and removal mechanical components, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the plug moving plate 7's movement. Furthermore, this sealing assembly has a simple structure, is easy to install and disassemble, and facilitates replacement of the pressure-resistant sealing ring or repair of the oil pipe 9 during later maintenance, reducing maintenance difficulty. The overall design improves the sealing reliability of the sealing test chamber and the stability of the device's operation.

[0053] The motor 11 in the underwater motor assembly is a waterproof motor 11, and its outer shell is made of corrosion-resistant material to adapt to the liquid environment inside the sealed test chamber.

[0054] The waterproof motor 11 effectively prevents liquid from entering the chamber and avoids damage to the motor 11 due to short circuit caused by water ingress, ensuring normal operation of the motor 11 and ensuring that the stirring impeller 12 stably generates simulated water flow, providing reliable power for water flow environment simulation. The outer shell made of corrosion-resistant material can resist the corrosion of the motor 11 by the liquid in the chamber, reducing the risk of damage to the motor 11 outer shell, extending the service life of the motor 11, and reducing equipment replacement costs. At the same time, the stable operation of the motor 11 can ensure the accuracy of water flow speed adjustment and avoid the instability of the water flow environment caused by motor 11 failure, which would affect the test results.

[0055] A control method for an underwater pluggable connector testing device, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0056] S1. Preparations before the test: Check the sealing performance of the sealed test chamber, ensure that the sealing gaskets at the connection between the upper end cover 2, the lower end cover 3 and the chamber 1 are intact, check whether the connection between each fixing rod 4 in the plug-in mechanical assembly and the upper end cover 2 and the lower end cover 3 is firm, confirm that the plug moving plate 7 moves smoothly along the guide structure, check whether the motor 11 and the stirring impeller 12 of the underwater motor assembly are installed firmly, and check whether the air source, booster pump, pressure sensor and pipeline connection of the pressure regulating module are normal.

[0057] S2. First, fix the socket of the connector to be tested in the middle of the bottom surface of the socket fixing plate 5, and then fix the plug of the connector to be tested in the middle of the top surface of the plug moving plate 7, ensuring that the two positions are coaxially corresponding.

[0058] S3. Close the upper end cover 2 and lower end cover 3 of the sealing test chamber and tighten them with bolts to form a sealed space in the sealing test chamber;

[0059] S4. Inject liquid into the sealing test chamber through the booster pump of the pressure regulating module until the sealing test chamber is full. During this period, monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor. When the pressure value reaches the preset initial pressure P0, stop the liquid injection.

[0060] S5. Next, start the booster pump of the pressure regulation module. According to the preset target water depth corresponding to the pressure value P1, pressurize the sealed test chamber through the air source and monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor in real time. When the pressure value reaches P1, stop pressurizing and maintain the pressure.

[0061] S6. Start the motor 11 of the underwater motor assembly to drive the stirring impeller 12 to rotate and generate simulated water flow. Adjust the speed of the motor 11 through the speed controller of the motor 11 so that the liquid flow rate reaches the preset V1. At the same time, monitor the actual liquid flow rate V through the flow rate sensor installed in the chamber and compare V with V1. If |V-V1|≤ΔV, maintain the current speed of the motor 11; if |V-V1|>ΔV, adjust the speed of the motor 11 until the actual water flow rate meets the requirements.

[0062] S7. Start the external hydraulic oil source and supply oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 through the oil pipe 9, so that the drive piston rod moves upward, thereby driving the plug moving plate 7 to move upward along the guide structure, so that the plug of the connector under test moves closer to the socket. During this process, the displacement S of the plug moving plate 7 is monitored in real time by the displacement sensor set on the plug moving plate 7. When S reaches the preset approach displacement S1, the movement speed of the piston rod is reduced.

[0063] S8. Continue to drive the piston rod upward to make the plug and socket contact and connect. The force sensor set on the plugging and unplugging mechanical assembly monitors the plugging and unplugging force F during the plugging and unplugging process, and records the curve FS of the plugging and unplugging force changing with displacement. Compare this curve with the preset standard plugging curve F0-S and calculate the deviation value between the two curves. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K1, the plugging process is judged to be normal and the plugging continues to be completed. If the deviation value is > K1, the piston rod movement is stopped immediately, and the piston rod is controlled to drive the plug moving plate 7 to move in the opposite direction to the initial position, and the abnormal information is recorded at the same time.

[0064] S9. After the plug and socket are fully connected, maintain this state for a period of time T1. During this period, continuously monitor the pressure value, water flow rate and electrical performance parameters of the connector in the sealed test chamber. If all parameters are within the preset normal range, proceed to S10. If any parameter exceeds the corresponding range, record the abnormal information and determine whether to terminate the test or make adjustments based on the type of abnormality.

[0065] S10. Control the external hydraulic oil source to supply oil in reverse, causing the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder 8 to move downward, thereby driving the plug moving plate 7 to move downward along the guide structure, separating the plug from the socket. During this process, the force sensor monitors the insertion and extraction force F' during the separation process, and records the curve F'-S' of the insertion and extraction force changing with displacement. This curve is compared with the preset standard separation curve F0'-S', and the deviation value is calculated. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K2, the separation process is judged to be normal; if the deviation value is > K2, the movement is stopped immediately, and abnormal information is recorded.

[0066] S11. When the plug moving plate 7 returns to the initial position, the external hydraulic oil source is turned off to stop the oil supply, and then the motor 11 of the underwater motor assembly is stopped.

[0067] S12. Release the air source pressure in the sealing test chamber through the pressure regulation module, so that the pressure in the sealing test chamber gradually drops to the initial pressure P0, then drain the liquid in the sealing test chamber, open the sealing test chamber, and take out the connector to be tested.

[0068] This control method ensures a standardized, precise, and safe testing process through clear and orderly steps. The pre-test preparation step comprehensively checks the status of each component, eliminating potential issues with sealing, connection, and smooth movement to prevent test interruptions or inaccurate data due to equipment failure. The connector fixing and sealing chamber closure steps emphasize coaxial alignment and airtightness, laying a solid foundation for subsequent testing. The pressure regulation step involves staged liquid injection and pressurization, combined with real-time monitoring by pressure sensors, to achieve precise control of the target pressure and replicate the real water depth and pressure environment. The water flow simulation step uses closed-loop control through rotation speed adjustment and flow rate monitoring to ensure the water flow velocity meets preset requirements. During the insertion and extraction test, real-time monitoring and curve comparison of displacement and insertion / extraction force can promptly detect abnormalities in insertion and separation, ensuring test safety and data validity. Continuous parameter monitoring after insertion and standardized operations after the test further ensure comprehensive and reliable test data while protecting the connector and equipment under test. The overall method effectively improves testing efficiency and result accuracy.

[0069] In step S9, the continuous monitoring of the connector's electrical performance parameters includes insulation resistance and contact resistance. When the insulation resistance is greater than or equal to a preset insulation resistance threshold R1 and the contact resistance is less than or equal to a preset contact resistance threshold R2, the electrical performance parameters are determined to be normal. If the insulation resistance is less than R1 or the contact resistance is greater than R2, it is further determined whether the abnormality is transient or continuous. If it is a transient abnormality and the duration is less than or equal to a preset transient abnormality allowable time T, the abnormality is recorded and monitoring continues. If it is a continuous abnormality or the duration of the transient abnormality is greater than T, the test is stopped immediately and the abnormality information is recorded.

[0070] By clearly monitoring insulation resistance and contact resistance and setting threshold judgment standards, the electrical performance of connectors under underwater mating conditions can be directly assessed to ensure compliance with standards, avoiding connector failures in actual use due to electrical performance issues. The system distinguishes between transient and continuous anomalies and sets allowable timeframes for transient anomalies. This avoids misjudging test results due to occasional transient anomalies, ensuring test continuity, while also enabling timely detection of continuous anomalies to prevent them from escalating and damaging equipment or affecting connector performance. This refined monitoring and judgment method makes the test assessment of connector electrical performance more comprehensive and provides a more accurate basis for connector quality judgment.

[0071] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any ordinary changes and substitutions made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A testing apparatus for an underwater pluggable connector, characterized in that: include: Sealed test chamber: used to form a sealed underwater test environment to accommodate the connector to be tested; the sealed test chamber includes a cylindrical chamber (1) and an upper end cover (2) and a lower end cover (3) set at the top and bottom of the chamber (1) and fixedly connected by bolts, and a sealing gasket is provided at the connection between the upper end cover (2), the lower end cover (3) and the chamber (1); Insertion and removal mechanical assembly: disposed inside the chamber (1), the insertion and removal mechanical assembly includes a guide structure fixedly disposed inside the chamber (1), the guide structure is composed of several fixed rods (4) arranged in a ring along the central axis of the chamber (1), one end of the fixed rod (4) is fixedly connected to the upper end cover (2), and the other end is fixedly connected to the lower end cover (3). A socket fixing plate (5) fixed to the guide structure and used to fix the socket of the connector under test is coaxially disposed in the middle of the chamber (1), the bottom surface of which is used to fix the socket of the connector under test. A bracket fixing plate (6) fixed to the guide structure is coaxially disposed near the bottom of the chamber (1), and a plug moving plate (7) located between the socket fixing plate (5) and the bracket fixing plate (6) and used to fix the plug of the connector under test is coaxially disposed in the chamber (1), the top surface of which is used to fix the plug of the connector under test. The plug moving plate (7) can move along the guide structure. The connector moves along the line. The connector moving plate (7) is equipped with a displacement sensor for real-time monitoring of the displacement of the connector moving plate (7). A telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) is fixedly installed in the middle of the top surface of the bracket fixing plate (6). The end of the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the connector moving plate (7). The oil inlet and outlet of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) are respectively fixedly connected to oil pipes (9). The other end of the oil pipe (9) passes through the bracket fixing plate (6) and the lower end cover (3) to the outside of the cabin (1) and is fixedly connected to an external hydraulic oil source. The external hydraulic oil source provides hydraulic oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) through the oil pipe (9) to drive the piston rod to reciprocate, thereby enabling the connector under test to complete the insertion and removal test. The insertion and removal mechanical assembly is also equipped with a force sensor for monitoring the insertion and removal force during the insertion and removal process of the connector. Underwater motor assembly: used to generate simulated water flow inside the chamber. The underwater motor assembly includes a motor bracket (10), which is fixedly installed in the middle of the lower end cover (3). A motor (11) is installed on the motor bracket (10). An agitator (12) is installed on the output shaft of the motor (11) through a coupling. The underwater motor assembly also includes a flow rate sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber for monitoring the liquid flow rate inside the sealed test chamber. Pressure regulation module: used to simulate underwater pressure at different depths, including an air source, a pressure sensor installed inside the sealed test chamber to monitor the pressure inside the sealed test chamber, a booster pump connected to the air source and fixedly installed outside the sealed test chamber and adjusted according to the feedback signal of the pressure sensor, and a pipeline connected to the booster pump to deliver the air source to the inside of the sealed test chamber. Control system: Used to control the coordinated operation of various parts in order to achieve data monitoring and control of the test process of the connector under test.

2. The testing apparatus for an underwater pluggable connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The socket fixing plate (5), the bracket fixing plate (6), and the plug moving plate (7) have the same structure and dimensions.

3. The testing apparatus for an underwater pluggable connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The booster pump of the pressure regulating module has an air inlet, a water inlet, a water outlet, and an air outlet. The air inlet is connected to an air source, the water inlet is connected to an external water source, the air outlet is connected to the inside of the sealing test chamber through a pipe, and the water outlet is connected to the inside of the sealing test chamber through a pipe.

4. The testing apparatus for an underwater pluggable connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the oil pipe (9) is connected to the perforation of the lower end cover (3) of the sealing test chamber through a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly includes a pressure-resistant sealing ring and a fixing flange. The pressure-resistant sealing ring is fitted around the outer diameter of the oil pipe (9) and fits tightly against the lower end cover (3) of the sealing test chamber. The fixing flange is fixed to the outside of the lower end cover (3) of the sealing test chamber by bolts to prevent liquid leakage in the sealing test chamber and to withstand the axial force of the oil pipe (9).

5. The testing apparatus for an underwater pluggable connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motor (11) in the underwater motor assembly is a waterproof motor (11), and its outer shell is made of corrosion-resistant material to adapt to the liquid environment inside the sealed test chamber.

6. A control method for a test apparatus applicable to the underwater pluggable connector according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Preparation before the test: Check the sealing performance of the sealed test chamber, ensure that the sealing gaskets at the connection between the upper end cover (2), the lower end cover (3) and the chamber (1) are intact, check whether the connection between each fixing rod (4) in the plug-in mechanical assembly and the upper end cover (2) and the lower end cover (3) is firm, confirm that the plug moving plate (7) moves smoothly along the guide structure, check whether the motor (11) and the stirring impeller (12) of the underwater motor assembly are installed firmly, and check whether the air source, booster pump, pressure sensor and pipeline connection of the pressure regulating module are normal. S2. First, fix the socket of the connector to be tested in the middle of the bottom surface of the socket fixing plate (5), and then fix the plug of the connector to be tested in the middle of the top surface of the plug moving plate (7) to ensure that the two positions are coaxially corresponding. S3. Close the upper end cover (2) and lower end cover (3) of the sealing test chamber and tighten them with bolts to form a sealed space in the sealing test chamber; S4. Inject liquid into the sealing test chamber through the booster pump of the pressure regulating module until the sealing test chamber is full. During this period, monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor. When the pressure value reaches the preset initial pressure P0, stop the liquid injection. S5. Next, start the booster pump of the pressure regulation module. According to the preset target water depth corresponding to the pressure value P1, pressurize the sealed test chamber through the air source and monitor the pressure value fed back by the pressure sensor in real time. When the pressure value reaches P1, stop pressurizing and maintain the pressure. S6. Start the motor (11) of the underwater motor assembly to drive the stirring impeller (12) to rotate and generate simulated water flow. Adjust the speed of the motor (11) through the speed controller of the motor (11) so that the liquid flow rate reaches the preset V1. At the same time, monitor the actual liquid flow rate V through the flow rate sensor set in the chamber and compare V with V1. If |V-V1|≤ΔV, maintain the current speed of the motor (11); if |V-V1|>ΔV, adjust the speed of the motor (11) until the actual water flow rate meets the requirements. S7. Start the external hydraulic oil source and supply oil to the telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) through the oil pipe (9) so that the drive piston rod moves upward, thereby driving the plug moving plate (7) to move upward along the guide structure, so that the plug of the connector under test moves closer to the socket. During this process, the displacement S of the plug moving plate (7) is monitored in real time by the displacement sensor set on the plug moving plate (7). When S reaches the preset proximity displacement S1, the movement speed of the piston rod is reduced. S8. Continue to drive the piston rod upward to make the plug and socket start to contact and be inserted. The force sensor set on the insertion and extraction mechanism monitors the insertion and extraction force F during the insertion process and records the curve FS of the insertion and extraction force changing with displacement. Compare this curve with the preset standard insertion curve F0-S and calculate the deviation value between the two curves. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K1, the insertion process is judged to be normal and the insertion is continued. If the deviation value is > K1, the piston rod movement is stopped immediately and the piston rod is controlled to drive the plug moving plate (7) to move in the opposite direction to the initial position. At the same time, abnormal information is recorded. S9. After the plug and socket are fully connected, maintain this state for a period of time T1. During this period, continuously monitor the pressure value, water flow rate and electrical performance parameters of the connector in the sealed test chamber. If all parameters are within the preset normal range, proceed to S10. If any parameter exceeds the corresponding range, record the abnormal information and determine whether to terminate the test or make adjustments based on the type of abnormality. S10. Control the external hydraulic oil source to supply oil in reverse, so that the piston rod of the telescopic hydraulic cylinder (8) moves downward, thereby driving the plug moving plate (7) to move downward along the guide structure, so that the plug and socket are separated. During this process, the insertion and extraction force F' during the separation process is monitored by the force sensor, and the curve F'-S' of the insertion and extraction force changing with the displacement is recorded. The curve is compared with the preset standard separation curve F0'-S', and the deviation value is calculated. If the deviation value is ≤ the preset curve deviation threshold K2, the separation process is judged to be normal; if the deviation value is > K2, the movement is stopped immediately and the abnormal information is recorded. S11. When the plug moving plate (7) returns to the initial position, the external hydraulic oil source is turned off to stop the oil supply, and then the motor (11) of the underwater motor assembly is stopped from running. S12. Release the air source pressure in the sealing test chamber through the pressure regulation module, so that the pressure in the sealing test chamber gradually drops to the initial pressure P0, then drain the liquid in the sealing test chamber, open the sealing test chamber, and take out the connector to be tested.

7. The control method for the underwater plug-in connector testing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, In step S9, the continuous monitoring of the connector's electrical performance parameters includes insulation resistance and contact resistance. When the insulation resistance is greater than or equal to a preset insulation resistance threshold R1 and the contact resistance is less than or equal to a preset contact resistance threshold R2, the electrical performance parameters are determined to be normal. If the insulation resistance is less than R1 or the contact resistance is greater than R2, it is further determined whether the abnormality is instantaneous or continuous. If it is an instantaneous abnormality and the duration is less than or equal to a preset instantaneous abnormality allowable time T, the abnormality is recorded and monitoring continues. If it is a continuous abnormality or the duration of the instantaneous abnormality is greater than T, the test is stopped immediately and the abnormality information is recorded.

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