Modular connector and connection method thereof
By designing modular connectors and employing intelligent monitoring methods, the problems of flexibility and fault monitoring in traditional connectors have been solved. This enables rapid switching of functional modules and real-time status monitoring, thereby improving system reliability and testing efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
Traditional connectors lack flexibility, making it difficult to quickly switch between functional modules and effectively monitor faults, thus affecting the progress of testing.
A modular connector was designed, which uses a combination of a horizontally splicable connector base, a positioning base and a positioning post, and integrates a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor to achieve modular connection and real-time status monitoring. The design of long and short connecting pins enables sequential switching of functional modules.
It enables flexible port expansion, ensures mechanical stability and signal transmission reliability, and can monitor connection status in real time, provide timely warnings and switching, thereby improving switching efficiency and system reliability during the test process.
Smart Images

Figure CN121663245A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of connectors, and in particular to a modular connector and its connection method. Background Technology
[0002] In modern electronic devices, communication systems, and industrial control, connectors serve as crucial basic components for achieving electrical connections and signal transmission between devices. Traditional connectors typically employ a fixed design, with the number and type of interfaces determined at the factory, lacking flexibility.
[0003] In experimental situations, since functional modules are not fixed, when it is necessary to add or replace functional modules, it is often necessary to replace the entire connector or adopt a complex adapter solution. In addition, during the test, it is necessary to quickly switch between multiple functional modules and compare test data. Therefore, in a system where multiple modules work together, traditional connectors are difficult to achieve smooth and lossless service switching. Furthermore, traditional connectors generally lack an effective connection status monitoring mechanism and cannot detect potential faults such as poor contact and abnormal temperature rise in real time. Usually, they can only be passively repaired after the fault occurs, which affects the progress of the test. In order to solve the above problems, a modular connector and its connection method are proposed. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a modular connector and its connection method to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a modular connector and its connection method, comprising: The connector body has a device electrical connection interface at one end for electrical connection with a device, and a signal transmission interface at the other end for signal transmission. Several modular connectors are arranged side by side horizontally. Each modular connector is provided with a plug-in interface for plugging into a signal transmission interface. The modular connector is also provided with a connection port. Several modular frames are fixedly disposed in the modular connector, and each modular frame is provided with a spring for in-situ signal detection. The fixing unit includes a fixing bracket corresponding to the module frame base. The fixing bracket is snapped onto the module frame base. A guide groove is fixedly provided on one side of the fixing bracket. A threaded sleeve is provided on the side of the guide groove. A connecting screw sleeve is threaded onto the threaded sleeve. The connection module includes a long connecting pin and a short connecting pin inserted into the module frame. The short connecting pin is used to make an electrical connection with a corresponding connection port, and the long connecting pin is used to make an electrical connection with a spring to realize the presence signal detection. The length of the long connecting pin is greater than the length of the short connecting pin. The end of the long connecting pin is connected to a cable body, and the cable body passes through the fixed bracket for signal transmission with external devices.
[0006] Preferably, the connector body is provided with a connecting frame corresponding to the signal transmission interface, and one end of the modular connector is provided with a socket groove for the connecting frame to be inserted. The modular connector is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting frame through the socket groove. The signal transmission interface and the plug-in interface can be adapted to be configured as various different types of electrical connection ports.
[0007] Preferably, side fixing seats are provided on both sides of the connector body, positioning posts are provided on the side fixing seats, and positioning seats are provided on the side fixing seats respectively. Positioning sleeves are fixedly connected to the positioning seats, and the positioning sleeves are sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the positioning posts. The positioning seats are distributed on both sides of several horizontally spliced modular connector seats.
[0008] Preferably, the modular connector has a splicing groove on one side and a splicing protrusion on the other side. The splicing protrusion has a protruding block, and the splicing groove has a positioning groove corresponding to the protruding block. Two adjacent modular connectors are spliced and positioned laterally by the insertion of the splicing protrusion and the splicing groove, and the cooperation of the protruding block and the positioning groove. The positioning seats are configured to correspond to the splicing groove and the splicing protrusion. One of the positioning seats is fixedly provided with a snap-fit protrusion for snapping into the splicing groove, and the other positioning seat is provided with a snap-fit groove for snapping into the splicing protrusion.
[0009] Preferably, the outer wall of the module frame is provided with a snap-fit groove, and the bottom end of the fixed bracket is fixedly provided with a flexible snap-fit arm. The bottom end of the snap-fit arm is provided with a snap-fit block. The fixed bracket and the module frame are fixedly connected by snap-fitting the snap-fit block with the snap-fit groove at the bottom end of the snap-fit groove. The spring is arc-shaped and made of elastic material. It is bent inward to form a contact piece. Multiple springs are symmetrically arranged and are used to fit against both sides of the long connecting pin.
[0010] Preferably, the module frame is provided with pads corresponding to the contact pieces, and the contact pieces contact the pads to achieve signal transmission and detection.
[0011] Preferably, a forming seat is integrally formed on the side of the long connecting pin away from the short connecting pin. The forming seat is used to connect the cable body to the long connecting pin. The forming seat is slidably disposed inside the guide groove, the threaded sleeve and the fixing bracket. A connecting part is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cable body. The two ends of the connecting part are fixedly connected to the fixing sleeve and the forming seat respectively.
[0012] Preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the cable body is integrally formed with a fixing sleeve, the outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve is provided with a contact ring, one end of the contact ring is inserted into a threaded sleeve, the outer peripheral wall of the threaded sleeve is threaded with a connecting screw sleeve, the connecting screw sleeve is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve, and a pressure block is fixedly connected to the connecting screw sleeve, the pressure block is provided corresponding to the contact ring, and the pressure block is in contact with the contact ring.
[0013] Preferably, it also includes an intelligent control unit, which includes: A pressure sensor is disposed at the contact end between the pressure top block and the contact ring, and is used to monitor the contact pressure between the long connecting pin and the spring sheet; A temperature sensor is disposed at the spring contact in the module frame to monitor the temperature at the connection point; A data processor is used to receive and process data from the pressure sensor and the temperature sensor.
[0014] A method for connecting a modular connector includes the following steps: S1: Equipment Connection and Module Assembly: Connect the connector body to the equipment controller through the equipment electrical connection interface; according to the number and type of signal transmission interfaces, horizontally assemble multiple modular connectors by inserting splicing protrusions and splicing grooves; install positioning seats on both sides of the assembled modular connectors, and mate the entire set of modular connectors with the connector body through the cooperation of positioning sleeves and positioning posts, so that the insertion interface and the signal transmission interface are electrically connected; S2: Fixed bracket installation: Attach the fixed bracket to the snap-fit slot of the module frame base using the snap-fit arm; S3: Module Insertion and Status Detection: Insert the long and short connecting pins into the module housing; during insertion, the long connecting pin first contacts and presses against the spring contact, causing the spring contact to contact the pad, generating an in-place signal and detecting the insertion of a new module; as insertion continues, the short connecting pin makes an electrical connection with the connector to perform network access detection of the new module, and sets the module status or triggers an alarm based on the detection result; S4: Precise adjustment of connection pressure: Place the connecting threaded sleeve on the fixed sleeve and screw it into the threaded sleeve. The pressure top block pushes the contact ring and the fixed sleeve, thereby precisely adjusting the insertion depth and contact pressure of the long connecting pin and the short connecting pin. S5: Intelligent monitoring and early warning: The pressure and temperature of the connection point are monitored in real time through pressure and temperature sensors and processed by the data processing unit; when the monitored data is abnormal, the system will issue a graded early warning or perform automatic control according to the preset strategy. S6: Main / Backup Module Switching: By controlling the tightness of the connecting screw, the short connecting pin is separated from or connected to the connecting port, while the long connecting pin is kept or disconnected from the spring, thereby realizing the switching and control of the signal path between the main module and the backup module.
[0015] The technical effects and advantages of this invention are as follows: The connector body provides a basic platform, and the modular connectors that can be horizontally spliced enable flexible port expansion, which can meet the dynamic requirements of different application scenarios for the number of interfaces and data types. From the interlocking of the splicing protrusions and splicing grooves of the modular connector, to the cooperation between the positioning seat and the positioning post, and then through the connection of the connecting frame and the socket groove, a stable and precise connection mechanism is formed, ensuring the long-term alignment and mechanical stability of a large number of signal transmission interfaces under frequent plugging and unplugging. The long connecting pin is mainly used to open the spring for in-situ detection and to assist in signal transmission. The short connecting pin is mainly responsible for the electrical connection with the connector. The design of one long and one short pin enables sequential connection. When inserted, the long connecting pin first contacts the spring to trigger the in-situ signal, and then the short connecting pin connects the main circuit. By pulling out the short connecting pin, the connection of the spare connector can be quickly realized, realizing the switching of functional modules, facilitating switching during the test and performing functional comparison.
[0016] By integrating a pressure sensor at the contact end between the pressure block and the contact ring, and a miniature temperature sensor attached to the spring, the physical state data of the connection point is collected in real time. The data processing unit analyzes this data in real time. When a fault occurs, it judges the early warning state, fault state, and emergency fault state, and performs corresponding control. It can achieve keen identification of early abnormal states and preliminary judgment of fault types, automatically cut off the main circuit or switch to the backup path to prevent the fault from escalating. At the same time, all data of the event will be recorded and stored in detail for post-event analysis. Attached Figure Description
[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the invention; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the main structure of the connector for the invention; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the modular connector structure for the invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the inner wall structure of the modular connector for the invention; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the modular connecting seat and positioning seat structure for the invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the modular connector, modular frame, and fixing unit of the invention. Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the fixed unit of the invention; Figure 8 Exploded view of the fixed unit and connecting module for the invention; Figure 9 A flowchart for determining the level change of the long and short needles was invented. Figure 10 A flowchart for sensor data processing was invented. Figure 11 A flowchart for determining the connection status of the inventive connector.
[0018] In the diagram: 1. Connector body; 11. Side fixing seat; 12. Positioning post; 13. Connecting frame; 14. Signal transmission interface; 15. Equipment electrical connection interface; 2. Modular connector; 21. Plug-in interface; 22. Splicing groove; 221. Positioning groove; 23. Splicing protrusion; 231. Protrusion block; 24. Connection port; 3. Positioning seat; 31. Positioning sleeve; 32. Snap-fit protrusion; 33. Snap-fit groove; 4. Module frame seat; 41. Snap-fit groove; 5. Fixing bracket; 51. Snap-fit arm; 52. Guide groove; 53. Threaded sleeve; 54. Connecting screw sleeve; 541. Pressure block; 6. Long connecting pin; 61. Short connecting pin; 62. Molding seat; 63. Connecting part; 64. Cable body; 65. Fixing sleeve; 66. Contact ring; 7. Spring; 71. Contact piece. Detailed Implementation
[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0020] This invention provides, for example Figures 1-11 The modular connector and its connection method shown include a connector body 1, one end of which is provided with a device electrical connection interface 15 for electrical connection with a device, and the other side of the device electrical connection interface 15 is provided with a signal transmission interface 14 for signal transmission. The connector body 1 serves as the core base of the entire connector system, providing basic electrical and mechanical connections with external devices. The device electrical connection interface 15 is located at one end of the connector body 1 and is responsible for making a stable electrical connection between the entire connector and the target device. It is the starting point and the end point of the entire signal transmission.
[0021] The signal transmission interface 14 is located on the other side of the device electrical connection interface 15 and is the core channel for data signal transmission between the connector body 1 and the expandable module; the connection frame 13 is arranged around the signal transmission interface 14 and serves as a mechanical structure to guide and support the modular connector 2, ensuring that the slot can be accurately aligned and connected to the signal transmission interface 14. Side fixing base 11 and positioning post 12 are distributed on both sides of connector body 1. They are used to cooperate with positioning base 3 during assembly to provide precise positioning and additional mechanical support for the entire module array and prevent misalignment.
[0022] When deploying a server cluster, the connector body 1 is fixed and connected to the main control board via the device electrical connection interface 15. Its multiple signal transmission interfaces 14 can be defined as different types such as Ethernet, fiber optic, or power, providing a foundation for subsequent expansion with modules offering different functions.
[0023] Several modular connectors 2 are arranged side by side in a horizontal manner. Each modular connector 2 is provided with a plug-in interface 21, which is used to plug into and connect with the signal transmission interface 14. The modular connector 2 is also provided with a connection port 24. Several modular frame seats 4 are fixedly installed in the modular connecting seat 2 in a corresponding manner, and each modular frame seat 4 is provided with a spring piece 7 for in-situ signal detection; The module frame 4 is pre-installed in each modular connector 2. When a functional module, such as a network card module, needs to be inserted, its long connector pin 6 and short connector pin 61 will be inserted into the module frame 4.
[0024] The fixing unit includes a fixing bracket 5 corresponding to the module frame 4. The fixing bracket 5 is snapped onto the module frame 4. A guide groove 52 is fixedly provided on one side of the fixing bracket 5. A threaded sleeve 53 is provided on the side of the guide groove 52. A connecting screw sleeve 54 is threadedly connected to the threaded sleeve 53. The fixing unit provides guidance and fixation for the connecting module, and enables precise adjustment of its connection pressure. The fixing bracket 5 is the main support structure. The snap-fit arm 51 is made of flexible material and has a snap-fit block at the bottom. By snapping into the snap-fit groove 41 of the module frame 4, the entire fixing unit is fixed to the module frame. The guide groove 52 provides precise guidance for the linear movement of the connecting module, ensuring a smooth and straight insertion process. The threaded sleeve 53 is fixedly set on the side of the guide groove 52 as the basis for adjustment. The core adjustment component is the threaded engagement between the connecting threaded sleeve 54 and the threaded sleeve 53. The pressure top block 541 is fixed inside the connecting threaded sleeve 54 and moves axially with its rotation.
[0025] The mounting bracket 5 is inserted into the snap-fit slot 41 of the module frame 4 via its bottom snap-fit arm 51 to complete the initial installation. The cable portion of the functional module will pass through the mounting bracket 5.
[0026] The connection module includes a long connecting pin 6 and a short connecting pin 61 inserted into the module frame 4. The short connecting pin 61 is used to make an electrical connection with the corresponding connection port 24, and the long connecting pin 6 is used to make an electrical connection with the spring 7 to realize the presence signal detection. The length of the long connecting pin 6 is greater than the length of the short connecting pin 61. The end of the long connecting pin 6 is connected to a cable body 64, and the cable body 64 passes through the fixed bracket 5 for signal transmission with external devices.
[0027] The connector body 1 is provided with a connecting frame 13 corresponding to the signal transmission interface 14. One end of the modular connector 2 is provided with a socket groove for the connecting frame 13 to be inserted. The modular connector 2 is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting frame 13 through the socket groove. The signal transmission interface 14 and the plug-in interface 21 can be adapted to be set as various types of electrical connection ports.
[0028] The connector body 1 provides a basic platform, and the modular connector 2, which can be horizontally spliced, enables flexible port expansion, which can meet the dynamic requirements of different application scenarios for the number of interfaces and data types. From the interlocking of the splicing protrusion 23 and splicing groove 22 of the modular connector 2, to the cooperation between the positioning seat 3 and the positioning post 12, and then through the connection of the connecting frame 13 and the socket groove, a stable and precise connection mechanism is formed, ensuring the long-term alignment and mechanical stability of a large number of signal transmission interfaces 14 under frequent plugging and unplugging.
[0029] By integrating sensors at the pressure top block 541 and the spring piece 7, the contact pressure and temperature are monitored in real time, and warning thresholds are set based on physical models such as Joule's law. The connector is no longer a simple passive component, but a device that can perform self-diagnosis of its condition and provide early warning of faults. By adjusting the connecting screw sleeve 54, the contact pressure is automatically optimized, improving the system's pre-maintenance capability and operational reliability. Finally, its unique hot-switching mechanism for primary and backup modules is achieved through the ingenious length difference design between the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61, ensuring the sequence of signal paths during switching and achieving smooth switching without service interruption.
[0030] Example 1: Side fixing seats 11 are provided on both sides of the connector body 1. Positioning posts 12 are provided on the side fixing seats 11. Positioning seats 3 are provided on the side fixing seats 11. Positioning sleeves 31 are fixedly connected to the positioning seats 3. The positioning sleeves 31 are sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the positioning posts 12. The positioning seats 3 are distributed on both sides of several horizontally spliced modular connector seats 2.
[0031] The modular connector 2 has a splicing groove 22 on one side and a splicing protrusion 23 on the other side. The splicing protrusion 23 has a protrusion block 231, and the splicing groove 22 has a positioning groove 221 corresponding to the protrusion block 231. Two adjacent modular connectors 2 can achieve lateral splicing and positioning by inserting the splicing protrusion 23 into the splicing groove 22 and by cooperating the protrusion block 231 with the positioning groove 221. The modular connector 2 serves as a carrier for functional modules, expanding connections through horizontal splicing and transmitting signals from the connector body 1 to each functional module. The insertion interface 21 is located inside the slot and directly interfaces with the signal transmission interface 14 on the connector body 1, enabling signal reception and relay. The connection port 24 is used to electrically connect with the functional module inserted into the slot via short connecting pins 61, completing the final signal transmission. The splicing groove 22 and splicing protrusion 23 are located on both sides of the slot. The horizontal physical splicing of multiple slots is achieved by the mutual insertion of the groove and the protrusion. The cooperation between the protrusion block 231 and the positioning groove 221 ensures the accuracy and firmness of the splicing. The socket groove is located at one end of the modular connector and is used to be sleeved on the connector frame 13 of the connector body 1.
[0032] When it is necessary to expand the server with a network module and a storage module, take two modular connectors 2, insert the splicing protrusion 23 of the first slot into the splicing groove 22 of the second slot, so that the protrusion 231 is engaged in the positioning groove 221, and complete the splicing of the two slots 2. Align the socket slots of this slot 2 array and put them on the connection frame 13 of the connector body 1, so that the plug interface 21 and the signal transmission interface 14 are connected.
[0033] The positioning seat 3 is configured to correspond to the splicing groove 22 and the splicing protrusion 23. One of the positioning seats 3 is fixedly provided with a snap-fit protrusion 32 for snapping into the splicing groove 22, and the other positioning seat 3 is provided with a snap-fit groove 33 for snapping into the splicing protrusion 23.
[0034] The positioning seat 3 is installed on both sides of the assembled modular connector array, serving to clamp, fix, and assist in positioning. The positioning sleeve 31 cooperates with the positioning post 12 on the connector body 1 to provide the final precise positioning for the entire modular array. The snap-fit protrusion 32 and snap-fit groove 33 are located on the two positioning seats 3 respectively, and are used to snap into the splicing groove 22 or splicing protrusion 23 of the end modular connector, clamping the entire slot array from both sides to enhance its overall stability.
[0035] After the modular connector 2 is assembled, place the two positioning seats 3 at the left and right ends of the array respectively. Make the snap-fit protrusion 32 on one positioning seat 3 snap into the splicing groove 22 of the leftmost slot, and the snap-fit groove 33 on the other positioning seat 3 snap into the splicing protrusion 23 of the rightmost slot. Align the positioning sleeves 31 on the two positioning seats 3 and put them on the positioning post 12 of the connector body 1 to complete the final fixation.
[0036] The outer wall of the module frame 4 is provided with a snap-fit groove 41, and the bottom end of the fixed bracket 5 is fixedly provided with a flexible snap-fit arm 51. The bottom end of the snap-fit arm 51 is provided with a snap-fit block. The snap-fit block is snapped into the snap-fit groove at the bottom end of the snap-fit groove 41 to realize the fixed connection between the fixed bracket 5 and the module frame 4. The module frame 4 is fixed in the modular connector 2 and serves as the insertion seat and detection mechanism for connecting modules.
[0037] The snap-fit groove 41 is used to snap-fit the snap-fit arm 51 at the bottom of the fixed bracket 5 to fix the fixed bracket 5 to the module frame base 4.
[0038] The spring piece 7 is arc-shaped and made of elastic material. It is bent inward to form a contact piece 71. Multiple spring pieces 7 are symmetrically arranged and are used to fit against the two sides of the long connecting pin 6.
[0039] The module frame 4 has a corresponding pad on the contact piece 71. The contact piece 71 contacts the pad to achieve signal transmission and detection.
[0040] When the module is not inserted, the two spring contacts 7 contact the pads through the contact piece 71, forming a short circuit and generating a module not in place signal. When the long connecting pin 6 is inserted, it will open the two spring contacts 7, separating them from the pads, breaking the circuit, and generating a module in place signal, thereby realizing mechanical in-place detection.
[0041] Example 2: A forming seat 62 is integrally formed on the side of the long connecting pin 6 away from the short connecting pin 61. The forming seat 62 is used to connect the cable body 64 to the long connecting pin 6. The forming seat 62 is slidably disposed inside the guide groove 52, the threaded sleeve 53 and the fixing bracket 5. A connecting part 63 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cable body 64. The two ends of the connecting part 63 are fixedly connected to the fixing sleeve 65 and the forming seat 62 respectively.
[0042] The outer peripheral wall of the cable body 64 is integrally formed with a fixing sleeve 65. The outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve 65 is provided with a contact ring 66. One end of the contact ring 66 is inserted into the threaded sleeve 53. The outer peripheral wall of the threaded sleeve 53 is threadedly connected with a connecting screw sleeve 54. The connecting screw sleeve 54 is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve 65, and a pressure block 541 is fixedly connected to the connecting screw sleeve 54. The pressure block 541 is set corresponding to the contact ring 66, and the pressure block 541 is in contact with the contact ring 66.
[0043] When the connecting sleeving 54 is tightened, the pressure block 541 comes into contact with and is squeezed against the contact ring 66, which in turn pushes the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61 to move in the insertion direction through the fixing sleeve 65, the connecting part 63 and the forming seat 62, so as to achieve precise adjustment of the connection pressure.
[0044] The connection module, as the core of the pluggable functional module, realizes signal transmission, in-situ detection, and mechanical connection.
[0045] The long connecting pin 6 is mainly used to open the spring 7 for in-situ detection and to assist in signal transmission. The short connecting pin 61 is mainly responsible for the electrical connection with the connector 24. The design of one long and one short pin realizes sequential connection. When inserted, the long connecting pin 6 first contacts the spring 7 to trigger the in-situ signal, and then the short connecting pin 61 connects the main circuit. By pulling out the short connecting pin 61, the connection of the spare connector can be quickly realized, realizing the switching of functional modules, facilitating switching during the test and performing functional comparison. The molding base 62 is integrally formed with the long connecting pin 6 and is used to centrally fix the cable body 64; the contact ring 66 is a ring-shaped structure on the fixing sleeve 65 and is the contact point that bears the adjustment pressure. Insert the long and short connecting pins of the connecting module into the module frame 4. After initial insertion, the long connecting pin 6 opens the spring 7, and the system detects that the module is in place. Then, the connecting sleeve 54 is put on the outside of the fixing sleeve 65 and screwed into the threaded sleeve 53. When screwing in, the pressure block 541 presses against the contact ring 66, pushing the entire connecting module to move slightly into the slot until the short connecting pin 61 and the connecting port 24 reach the optimal contact pressure, ensuring the reliability of the electrical connection.
[0046] It also includes an intelligent control unit, which includes: A pressure sensor is located at the contact end between the pressure top block 541 and the contact ring 66 to monitor the contact pressure between the long connecting pin 6 and the spring piece 7. A temperature sensor is installed at the spring contact 7 in the module frame 4 to monitor the temperature of the connection point; A data processor is used to receive and process data from pressure and temperature sensors.
[0047] A modular connector connection method includes the following steps: S1: Equipment Connection and Module Assembly: Connect the connector body 1 to the equipment controller through the equipment electrical connection interface 15; according to the number and type of signal transmission interface 14, laterally assemble multiple modular connector seats 2 by inserting the splicing protrusions 23 and splicing grooves 22; install the positioning seats 3 on both sides of the assembled modular connector seats 2, and assemble the entire set of modular connector seats 2 with the connector body 1 through the cooperation of the positioning sleeves 31 and the positioning posts 12, so that the insertion interface 21 and the signal transmission interface 14 are electrically connected; S2: Fixed bracket installation: The fixed bracket 5 is snapped into the snap-fit groove 41 of the module frame base 4 via the snap-fit arm 51; S3: Module Insertion and Status Detection: Insert the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61 into the module frame 4; during the insertion process, the long connecting pin 6 first contacts and presses against the spring 7, causing the spring 7 to contact the pad, generating an in-place signal and detecting the insertion of a new module; as insertion continues, the short connecting pin 61 makes an electrical connection with the connection port 24 to perform network access detection of the new module, and sets the module status or triggers an alarm based on the detection result; S4: Precise adjustment of connection pressure: Place the connecting threaded sleeve 54 on the fixed sleeve 65 and screw it into the threaded sleeve 53. The pressure top block 541 pushes the contact ring 66 and the fixed sleeve 65, thereby precisely adjusting the insertion depth and contact pressure of the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61. S5: Intelligent monitoring and early warning: The pressure and temperature of the connection point are monitored in real time through pressure and temperature sensors and processed by the data processing unit; when the monitored data is abnormal, the system will issue a graded early warning or perform automatic control according to the preset strategy. S6: Main / backup module switching: By controlling the tightness of the connecting screw sleeve 54, the short connecting pin 61 is separated from or connected to the connecting port 24, while the long connecting pin 6 is kept or disconnected from the spring piece 7, thereby realizing the switching and control of the signal path between the main module and the backup module.
[0048] Working principle: The connector body 1 is connected to the device controller through the device electrical connection interface 15. According to the signal transmission interface 14 set on the connector body 1, adjacent modular connector seats 2 are spliced together. The splicing protrusions 23 on the modular connector seats 2 are inserted into the splicing grooves 22. The protrusions 231 and the positioning grooves 221 are in contact, and the cooperation of the protrusions 231 and the positioning grooves 221 facilitates the insertion of adjacent modular connector seats 2. After the multiple modular connector seats 2 are installed, two positioning seats 3 are installed on both sides of the spliced modular connector seats 2. The positioning seats 3 are snapped into the splicing grooves 22 by the snapping protrusions 32, thus completing the connection between the positioning seats 3 and one side of the spliced modular connector seats 2. For installation, another positioning seat 3 is engaged in the splicing protrusion 23 through the snap-fit groove 33, completing the installation of the positioning seat 3 and the other side of the splicing modular connecting seat 2; by inserting the positioning sleeve 31 on the positioning seat 3 into the positioning post 12, the connector body 1 and the modular connecting seat 2 are easily connected under the positioning of the positioning sleeve 31 and the positioning post 12. At this time, the slot on the modular connecting seat 2 corresponds to the connecting frame 13, and the signal transmission interface 14 on the modular connecting seat 2 is set to correspond to the plug-in interface 21. The modular connecting seat 2 is inserted into the connecting frame 13 through the slot, and the signal transmission interface 14 and the plug-in interface 21 are plugged in. At this time, the modular connecting seat 2 and the modular frame seat 4 are connected to the connector body 1.
[0049] At this point, by snapping the fixed bracket 5 onto the module frame 4 and engaging the snap-fit arm 51 with the snap-fit groove 41, the fixed connection between the fixed bracket 5 and the module frame 4 is completed.
[0050] By inserting the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61 into the module frame 4, the long connecting pin 6 first contacts and presses against the spring contact 7, while the short connecting pin 61 is not connected to the connection port 24. At this time, the spring contact 7 contacts the pads, thus short-circuiting the two pads and connecting the circuit. The level of the detection point will change, indicating that a new module has been inserted and a new module insertion signal has been obtained. Then, the long connecting pin 6 is inserted again, and at this time, the long connecting pin 6 continues to press against the spring contact 7, while the short connecting pin 61 moves and connects to the connection port 24. At this time, the insertion of a new module is detected, and a network access test of the new module is performed. If the network access test of the new module passes, the new module is set to standby status. If the network access test of the new module fails, an alarm is triggered for the new module. At this time, the insertion is manually repeated to check whether there is any abnormality in the connection module and to troubleshoot the abnormality.
[0051] When the short connecting pin 61 is inserted into the connecting port 24, the fixing sleeve 65 is inserted into the guide groove 52. The connecting threaded sleeve 54 is then fitted onto the outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve 65, and the contact ring 66 is located in the connecting threaded sleeve 54. By threading the connecting threaded sleeve 54 onto the outer peripheral wall of the threaded sleeve 53, the pressure block 541 contacts the contact ring 66. Under the pressure of the pressure block 541, the fixing sleeve 65 is pushed to move. The movement of the fixing sleeve 65 causes the connecting part 63 and the forming seat 62 to move with the fixing sleeve 65, thereby pushing the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61 to move further. By rotating the connecting threaded sleeve 54, the connection position of the connecting threaded sleeve 54 on the threaded sleeve 53 is adjusted, thereby precisely adjusting the position of the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61.
[0052] A pressure sensor is installed at the contact end between the pressure block 541 and the contact ring 66. The pressure sensor monitors the pressure between the long connecting pin 6 and the spring 7. A miniature temperature sensor is attached to the spring 7 in the module frame 4 to monitor the temperature in the module frame 4. A miniature resistance sensor is connected in series inside the module frame 4. All sensor data are transmitted to the data processing unit for data reception and preprocessing. By rotating the connecting screw sleeve 54 in conjunction with the pressure top block 541, the long connecting pin 6 is pushed to move, thereby changing the contact pressure between the long connecting pin 6 and the spring 7. This ensures that the positive pressure between the long connecting pin 6 and the spring 7 is stable within the set range, avoiding excessive pressure that could lead to increased contact resistance or excessive pressure that could damage the contacts. When the pressure exceeds the maximum threshold, an alarm is triggered, and manual pressure adjustment is initiated. When the pressure falls below the minimum threshold, it is determined whether it is an emergency fault. If it is an emergency fault, an emergency fault warning is issued, a shutdown signal is sent, and the data is recorded and stored. If it is not an emergency fault, a fault warning is issued, and manual handling is notified, while the data is recorded and stored.
[0053] The physical state data of the connection point is collected in real time by a pressure sensor integrated at the contact end between the pressure block 541 and the contact ring 66, and a miniature temperature sensor attached to the spring piece 7. The data processing unit analyzes this data in real time and executes the following graded response strategy: Warning status: When the monitored data is close to but does not exceed the preset warning threshold, such as when the temperature rises to 75°C or the pressure drops to 18N, the system determines that it is in a warning status.
[0054] By fine-tuning the position of the connecting sleeve 54 on the threaded sleeve 53, the pressure block 541 pushes the fixing sleeve 65, thereby increasing the contact pressure between the long connecting pin 6 and the spring piece 7, attempting to automatically restore the state to the normal range. At the same time, the system will send warning information through equipment indicator lights or a remote monitoring APP to remind maintenance personnel to pay attention.
[0055] Fault Status: When monitored data exceeds the warning threshold but does not reach the emergency fault threshold (e.g., pressure below 15N or above 35N), the system determines it to be in a fault status. The control unit will issue a fault warning, immediately notifying maintenance personnel via audible and visual alarms and the network for handling, and recording and storing abnormal data and operations.
[0056] Emergency Fault Status: When the monitored data exceeds the highest safety threshold, such as the temperature rising to 90°C or the contact resistance exceeding 100mΩ, the system determines it to be an emergency fault.
[0057] The control unit will immediately execute an emergency fault warning and send a shutdown signal, automatically disconnecting the main circuit or switching to the backup path to prevent the fault from escalating. At the same time, all data of the event will be recorded and stored in detail for post-event analysis.
[0058] The system's diagnostic strategy integrates data-driven and physical model approaches to achieve more accurate judgments. It uses historical operational datasets to train lightweight fault diagnosis models, such as small neural network models based on CNNs. These models can learn the characteristics of different fault modes, enabling them to keenly identify early abnormal states and make preliminary judgments on fault types.
[0059] Simultaneously, the system combines physical formulas to scientifically calculate basic thresholds, based on Joule's law: Q=I²Rt, Where Q is heat, I is real-time current, R is contact resistance, and t is time.
[0060] The system can calculate the theoretical temperature rise based on real-time current and contact resistance, thereby dynamically setting a reasonable temperature threshold.
[0061] The pressure threshold is set based on the fatigue strength of the contact material. For example, a pressure below 15N or above 35N is a warning threshold to ensure the reliability of the mechanical connection.
[0062] Complete the connection of the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61, connect the main connector, and set it as the main module. At the same time, insert the long connecting pin 6 and the short connecting pin 61 on the spare connector into the module frame 4. The long connecting pin 6 contacts the spring 7, and the short connecting pin 61 contacts the connection port 24. At this time, the insertion of a new module is detected, and the inserted module is set as the spare module. When switching between the main module and the backup module, the connecting screw sleeve 54 is removed and the fixing sleeve 65 is pulled outward, so that the short connecting pin 61 is separated from the connecting port 24. At this time, the long connecting pin 6 and the spring piece 7 are not broken, the short connecting pin 61 is disconnected from the connecting port 24, and a signal to switch the backup module path is sent, which is automatically converted to the backup signal connection and quickly performs backup signal control. At the same time, the long connecting pin 6 and the spring piece 7 are not broken, and the main module signal path is retained. When the main module short connector pin 61 is reinserted into the connector 24, the main module is reconnected, the backup module is disconnected, and the main module control signal is automatically switched to execution. When the long connecting pin 6 and the spring 7, and the short connecting pin 61 and the connecting port 24 are both disconnected, the backup module is forcibly switched and an early warning is issued. At this time, the main module path disappears completely and the backup module is automatically converted into the main module.
[0063] When using modular connectors, the connection status of the main module connector and the backup module connector is monitored to determine the connection status of the connecting module. When performing main connector status monitoring: When switching online connectors, a main connector switching request is issued, the backup connector is connected, and the main connector is disconnected from the control connection. At this time, the status of the backup connector is monitored. When the path status is abnormal, an early warning alarm is issued and the system process is stopped. When the path status is normal, the connector connection status monitoring and judgment continue. When the backup connector is lost, i.e. the presence signal at spring 7 disappears, a fault warning is issued and connector switching requests are prohibited. When the main connector is lost (i.e., the presence signal at spring 7 disappears), an emergency state is activated, forcibly switching to the backup path and connecting the backup connector. At this time, the status of the backup connector is monitored. When the path status is abnormal, an early warning alarm is issued, and the execution of the system process is stopped. When the path status is normal, the connector connection status monitoring and judgment continue.
[0064] When monitoring the status of spare connectors: A backup connector switching request is issued, the main connector is connected, and the backup connector is disconnected from the control connection. At this time, the status of the main connector is monitored. When the path status is abnormal, an early warning alarm is issued and the execution of the system process is stopped. When the path status is normal, the connector connection status monitoring and judgment continue. When the main connector is lost, i.e. the presence signal at spring 7 disappears, a fault warning is issued and connector switching requests are prohibited. When the backup connector is lost (i.e., the presence signal at spring 7 disappears), an emergency state is activated, the main path is forcibly switched, and the main connector is connected. At this time, the status of the main connector is monitored. When the path status is abnormal, an early warning alarm is issued, and the execution of the system process is stopped. When the path status is normal, the connector connection status monitoring and judgment continue.
[0065] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A modular connector, characterized in that, include: The connector body (1) has a device electrical connection interface (15) for electrical connection with the device at one end, and a signal transmission interface (14) for signal transmission at the other side of the device electrical connection interface (15). Several modular connectors (2) are arranged side by side in a horizontal manner. Each modular connector (2) is provided with a plug-in interface (21). The plug-in interface (21) is used to plug into and connect with the signal transmission interface (14). The modular connector (2) is also provided with a connection port (24). Several module frames (4) are fixedly disposed in the modular connector (2) in a corresponding manner, and each module frame (4) is provided with a spring (7) for in-situ signal detection. The fixing unit includes a fixing bracket (5) corresponding to the module frame (4), the fixing bracket (5) is snapped onto the module frame (4), a guide groove (52) is fixedly provided on one side of the fixing bracket (5), a threaded sleeve (53) is provided on the side of the guide groove (52), and a connecting screw sleeve (54) is threaded onto the threaded sleeve (53). The connection module includes a long connecting pin (6) and a short connecting pin (61) inserted into the module frame (4). The short connecting pin (61) is used to make an electrical connection with the corresponding connection port (24). The long connecting pin (6) is used to make an electrical connection with the spring (7) to realize the in-situ signal detection. The length of the long connecting pin (6) is greater than the length of the short connecting pin (61). The end of the long connecting pin (6) is connected to a cable body (64). The cable body (64) passes through the fixed bracket (5) for signal transmission with external devices.
2. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector body (1) is provided with a connecting frame (13) corresponding to the signal transmission interface (14). One end of the modular connector (2) is provided with a socket groove for the connecting frame (13) to be inserted. The modular connector (2) is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting frame (13) through the socket groove. The signal transmission interface (14) and the plug-in interface (21) can be adapted to be set as various types of electrical connection ports.
3. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector body (1) is provided with side fixing seats (11) on both sides. The side fixing seats (11) are provided with positioning posts (12). The side fixing seats (11) are provided with positioning seats (3). The positioning seats (3) are fixedly connected with positioning sleeves (31). The positioning sleeves (31) are sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the positioning posts (12). The positioning seats (3) are distributed on both sides of several horizontally spliced modular connector seats (2).
4. A modular connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The modular connector (2) has a splicing groove (22) on one side and a splicing protrusion (23) on the other side. The splicing protrusion (23) has a protrusion block (231), and the splicing groove (22) has a positioning groove (221) corresponding to the protrusion block (231). The two adjacent modular connectors (2) can achieve horizontal splicing and positioning by the insertion of the splicing protrusion (23) and the splicing groove (22), and the cooperation of the protrusion block (231) and the positioning groove (221). The positioning seat (3) is configured to correspond to the splicing groove (22) and the splicing protrusion (23). One of the positioning seats (3) is fixedly provided with a snap-fit protrusion (32) for snapping into the splicing groove (22), and the other positioning seat (3) is provided with a snap-fit groove (33) for snapping into the splicing protrusion (23).
5. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the module frame (4) is provided with a snap-fit groove (41), and the bottom end of the fixed bracket (5) is fixedly provided with a flexible snap-fit arm (51). The bottom end of the snap-fit arm (51) is provided with a snap-fit block. The fixed bracket (5) and the module frame (4) are fixedly connected by snap-fit block and snap-fit groove at the bottom end of the snap-fit groove (41). The spring (7) is arc-shaped and made of elastic material. It is bent inward to form a contact piece (71). Multiple springs (7) are symmetrically arranged and multiple springs (7) are used to fit against the two sides of the long connecting pin (6).
6. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The module frame (4) has a corresponding contact piece (71) with a solder pad. The contact piece (71) contacts the solder pad to realize signal transmission and detection.
7. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The long connecting pin (6) has a forming seat (62) integrally formed on the side away from the short connecting pin (61). The forming seat (62) is used to connect the cable body (64) and the long connecting pin (6). The forming seat (62) is slidably disposed inside the guide groove (52), the threaded sleeve (53) and the fixing bracket (5). The outer peripheral wall of the cable body (64) is provided with a connecting part (63). The two ends of the connecting part (63) are fixedly connected to the fixing sleeve (65) and the forming seat (62) respectively.
8. A modular connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the cable body (64) is integrally formed with a fixing sleeve (65). The outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve (65) is provided with a contact ring (66). One end of the contact ring (66) is inserted into a threaded sleeve (53). The outer peripheral wall of the threaded sleeve (53) is threaded with a connecting screw sleeve (54). The connecting screw sleeve (54) is sleeved on the outer peripheral wall of the fixing sleeve (65). A pressure block (541) is fixedly connected to the connecting screw sleeve (54). The pressure block (541) is set corresponding to the contact ring (66). The pressure block (541) is in contact with the contact ring (66).
9. A modular connector according to claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes an intelligent control unit, which includes: A pressure sensor is disposed at the contact end between the pressure top block (541) and the contact ring (66) to monitor the contact pressure between the long connecting pin (6) and the spring piece (7); A temperature sensor is provided at the spring piece (7) in the module frame (4) for monitoring the temperature of the connection point; A data processor is used to receive and process data from the pressure sensor and the temperature sensor.
10. A method for connecting a modular connector, wherein the modular connector is described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Equipment connection and module splicing: Connect the connector body (1) to the equipment controller through the equipment electrical connection interface (15); according to the number and type of signal transmission interface (14), splice multiple modular connectors (2) horizontally by inserting splicing protrusions (23) and splicing grooves (22); install positioning seats (3) on both sides of the spliced modular connectors (2), and through the cooperation of positioning sleeves (31) and positioning posts (12), connect the entire set of modular connectors (2) to the connector body (1), so that the insertion interface (21) and the signal transmission interface (14) are electrically connected; S2: Fixed bracket installation: The fixed bracket (5) is snapped into the snap-fit groove (41) of the module frame base (4) by snap-fit arm (51); S3: Module insertion and status detection: Insert the long connecting pin (6) and the short connecting pin (61) into the module frame (4); during the insertion process, the long connecting pin (6) first contacts and presses against the spring (7), so that the spring (7) contacts the pad, generating an in-place signal and detecting the insertion of a new module; continue insertion, and the short connecting pin (61) makes an electrical connection with the connection port (24) to perform network access detection of the new module, and set the module status or trigger an alarm according to the detection result; S4: Precise adjustment of connection pressure: Place the connecting threaded sleeve (54) on the fixed sleeve (65) and screw it into the threaded sleeve (53). Push the contact ring (66) and the fixed sleeve (65) through the pressure top block (541) to precisely adjust the insertion depth and contact pressure of the long connecting pin (6) and the short connecting pin (61). S5: Intelligent monitoring and early warning: The pressure and temperature of the connection point are monitored in real time through pressure and temperature sensors and processed by the data processing unit; when the monitored data is abnormal, the system will issue a graded early warning or perform automatic control according to the preset strategy. S6: Switching between main and backup modules: By controlling the tightness of the connecting sleeve (54), the short connecting pin (61) is separated from or connected to the connecting port (24), while the long connecting pin (6) is kept or disconnected from the spring (7), thereby realizing the switching and control of the signal path between the main module and the backup module.