A modular pluggable relay matrix device

Abstract

This application relates to a modular, pluggable relay matrix device, belonging to the field of relay matrices. It includes a main board, an input module, an output module, a control module, and multiple relay sub-boards. The main board has matrix interconnection lines and multiple relay sockets. The relay sub-boards have multiple relays and relay lines connected to them. After the multiple relay sub-boards are plugged into the main board, the input lines of the input module, the output lines of the output module, the matrix interconnection lines on the main board, the relays, and the relay lines together constitute a relay matrix switching network. The control module controls the on / off state of the relays to achieve selective electrical connection between the input module and the output module. This application offers advantages such as convenient maintenance, improved signal transmission stability, device miniaturization, and high operational stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of relay matrix technology, and in particular to a modular, pluggable relay matrix device. Background Technology

[0002] Relay matrices, as crucial devices for selectively switching and routing multiple signals across multiple ports, are widely used in automated testing systems, communication systems, and industrial control systems. With the increasing complexity of the objects under test, the growing variety of signal types, and the rising demands for system integration, related application scenarios place higher requirements on the channel density, operational reliability, ease of maintenance, and long-term stable operation of relay matrices. Existing relay matrix structures still have certain shortcomings in terms of high density, high reliability, and ease of maintenance, making it difficult to simultaneously meet the comprehensive needs of miniaturization, integration, and convenient maintenance.

[0003] In existing technologies, a common relay matrix structure involves soldering multiple relays onto a single motherboard and connecting the channels via circuitry on the motherboard. This relay matrix structure has significant limitations in practical applications. Firstly, relays are vulnerable components and may fail during long-term use. When a relay fails, it often requires desoldering and replacing components directly on the motherboard. Since all relays are densely soldered onto the same motherboard, repairs typically require specialized technicians using equipment such as hot air guns for desoldering and replacement, a cumbersome process that can easily damage surrounding components and the PCB. In scenarios with high availability requirements (such as 24 / 7 test lines or broadcast systems), the downtime caused by this repair method is unacceptable. Secondly, a large number of relays concentrated on the same motherboard can easily lead to localized heat buildup, affecting the relay's operational stability and lifespan. It also hinders the flexible adjustment of the matrix size or signal type according to different application requirements.

[0004] To improve maintainability, existing technologies have also seen modular solutions that divide relay matrices into multiple independent units. For example, multiple independent chassis or card units can each implement partial channel functions, and then external cables or adapters are used to form a complete matrix system. While this approach facilitates partial replacement and expansion to some extent, the interconnection between functional units still requires additional cables, connectors, or intermediate adapters, resulting in complex wiring, a dispersed structure, and a large footprint, which is detrimental to miniaturization and highly integrated design. Furthermore, longer external connection paths can introduce additional parasitic parameters and signal attenuation, affecting signal transmission quality and overall system performance. In addition, the coordinated control and power management between multiple units also increase system complexity and the risk of failure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a modular, pluggable relay matrix device.

[0006] The modular, pluggable relay matrix device provided in this application adopts the following technical solution: A modular, pluggable relay matrix device includes a main board, an input module, an output module, a control module, and multiple relay sub-boards; The motherboard is provided with matrix interconnection lines and multiple relay sockets, and the relay daughterboard can be plugged into the relay sockets; The relay subboard is equipped with multiple relays and relay circuits connected to the multiple relays; After the multiple relay sub-boards are plugged into the main board, the input lines of the input module, the output lines of the output module, the matrix interconnection lines on the main board, the relays, and the relay lines together constitute a relay matrix switching network. The control module is used to control the on / off state of the relay to achieve selective electrical connection between the input module and the output module.

[0007] By adopting the above technical solution, since the motherboard has a pre-set matrix interconnection circuit, multiple relay sub-boards respectively carry a row, column, half row, half column, or partial cross network in the matrix network. When a relay sub-board fails, usually only the corresponding local (one or more) input terminals and / or output terminals are affected, without causing the entire relay matrix to fail. The faulty relay sub-board can be directly removed and replaced, and then the circuit can be switched to other input terminals of the input module / other output terminals of the output module, realizing non-stop maintenance. Disassembly is inconvenient and does not require handling complex external wiring as in traditional methods. By integrating the connections that originally relied on external cables into the motherboard, the number of external adapters, connectors, and related wiring structures is reduced, resulting in a more compact overall device structure, which is beneficial for device miniaturization and high-density integration. At the same time, the internal circuitry has a shorter and more controllable transmission path compared to external connections, which helps to reduce parasitic inductance and capacitance and improve signal transmission stability. By adopting a daughterboard plug-in method, the assembly of the relay matrix no longer relies on extensive manual wiring and point-by-point connections, reducing the risk of wiring errors during assembly and improving assembly efficiency. Compared to external cable connections, the integrated circuitry within the motherboard reduces the risk of connection failures caused by cable swaying, loosening, poor contact, and long-term vibration. For test systems or industrial control systems that require long-term continuous operation, this internally integrated connection structure typically offers higher mechanical reliability and operational stability.

[0008] Optionally, multiple relays on each relay subboard may constitute relays in the same row or column in a relay matrix switching network.

[0009] By adopting the above technical solution, when each relay sub-board corresponds to the same row or column in the matrix, the failure of one relay sub-board will only affect the switching capability of the entire group corresponding to a certain input terminal or the entire group switching capability corresponding to a certain output terminal. This makes fault location very intuitive. When a certain output or input terminal fails, it is easy to quickly identify which relay sub-board has failed, making maintenance more efficient. This method usually makes the matrix interconnection lines on the main board more organized, the relay grouping on the sub-boards more organized, and the control addressing relationship more direct, meaning that both hardware and software mapping are easier to clarify.

[0010] Optionally, the motherboard is provided with an input socket, an output socket, and a control socket; The input module includes an input sub-board and an input interface, and the input sub-board can be plugged into the input socket; The output module includes an output sub-board and an output interface, and the output sub-board can be plugged into the output socket; The control module includes a control subboard and a control interface, and the control subboard can be plugged into the control socket; The motherboard is also equipped with a power socket, which is connected to a power sub-board, and the power sub-board is connected to an external connector.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, the input module, output module, control module and power module are all set as pluggable daughterboards, so that each functional unit can be independently disassembled and replaced, thereby further improving the maintainability and maintenance efficiency of the whole machine; at the same time, the functional boundaries of each module are clear, which is conducive to rapid fault location and isolation.

[0012] Optionally, the relay sub-board is connected to a first panel, and the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board, and the power sub-board are all connected to a second panel. The second panel has a receiving opening, and the output interface, the input interface, the control interface, and the power sub-board are respectively disposed in the receiving opening of their respective second panels. It also includes a housing, in which the first panel, the second panel, and the housing together enclose a receiving space, and the relay sub-board, the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board, and the power supply sub-board are all located within the receiving space.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, the relay sub-board, input sub-board, output sub-board, control sub-board, and power supply sub-board can all be installed with the housing through the corresponding panels. When replacing any functional sub-board, it is only necessary to pull out the corresponding panel along with the sub-board as a whole, thereby simplifying the disassembly and assembly process and improving maintenance convenience. The first panel, the second panel, and the housing together enclose the receiving space, so that each sub-board is arranged in a concentrated manner within the receiving space, thereby improving the compactness and integrity of the overall structure of the device and facilitating the miniaturization and integration design of the device.

[0014] Optionally, both the first panel and the second panel are connected to handles.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, the handle design makes it easier to pull out the first panel / second panel and the corresponding functional sub-board together.

[0016] Optionally, the relay sub-board, the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board, and the power supply sub-board are all located on the same side of the main board, and the relay sub-board, the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board, and the power supply sub-board are all vertically arranged so that heat dissipation channels are left between adjacent sub-boards.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, all sub-boards are arranged on the same side of the main board, which is conducive to unifying the internal layout of the whole machine, reducing the space waste caused by structural dispersion, thereby improving the structural compactness and space utilization of the device. At the same time, all sub-boards are vertically arranged and heat dissipation channels are formed between adjacent sub-boards, which allows heat to be discharged upward with the airflow in the vertical direction, making it easier to form a smoother heat dissipation path inside the shell. Compared with the method of horizontal arrangement of sub-boards, it can reduce the accumulation of heat in local areas, thereby improving the heat dissipation efficiency and operational stability of the device.

[0018] Optionally, the top of the housing is provided with several slide rails, and the relay sub-board, the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board and the power sub-board can move along the corresponding slide rails and be aligned and plugged into the main board.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, the slide rail set on the top of the housing can guide and limit the movement path of the sub-board, so that the relay sub-board, input sub-board, output sub-board, control sub-board and power sub-board can move in a predetermined direction and accurately align with the corresponding plug-in position on the main board during the insertion process, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of the insertion process and reducing connector damage caused by insertion misalignment or misalignment.

[0020] Optionally, the slide rail includes a connecting block, the connecting block having a plug-in groove extending to both ends of the connecting block, and the connecting block having a first guide groove on the side opposite to the plug-in groove; The two ends of the connecting block are connected to positioning blocks through the insertion slots. The positioning block has a second guide slot, and the first guide slot and the second guide slot are connected. The relay sub-board, the input sub-board, the output sub-board, the control sub-board, and the power sub-board can move along the corresponding first guide slot and the second guide slot and be aligned and inserted into the main board; A plug rod is provided on the side of the positioning block opposite to the second guide groove. A first positioning plate is provided on the housing. A plurality of first positioning holes are provided on the first positioning plate. The first positioning plate is located near the first panel. A second positioning plate is also provided on the housing. A plurality of second positioning holes are provided on the second positioning plate. The second positioning plate is located near the main board. The insertion rod of one of the positioning blocks is inserted into the first positioning hole, and the insertion rod of the other positioning block is inserted into the second positioning hole, thereby fixing the positioning block and the connecting block inside the housing.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, the slide rail is formed by splicing a connecting block and two positioning blocks, which has a simple structure and is easy to pre-assemble and disassemble. During installation, simply insert the two positioning blocks into the two ends of the connecting block, and then insert the plug-in rods on the two positioning blocks into the corresponding first and second positioning holes, respectively. This will quickly fix the slide rail into the housing, thereby simplifying the installation process and improving assembly efficiency. At the same time, the first guide groove and the second guide groove are connected to form a continuous guide structure, which can provide stable guidance for the insertion process of the sub-boards, making it easier for each sub-board to align with the corresponding insertion position on the main board.

[0022] Optionally, both the first positioning plate and the second positioning plate are provided with snap-fit ​​grooves, and the positioning block is provided with an elastic card. The elastic card is provided on the same side as the insertion rod, and the elastic card can snap into the snap-fit ​​groove.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, when the plug rod on the positioning block is inserted into the corresponding first positioning hole or second positioning hole, the elastic card can simultaneously engage in the corresponding engagement groove, thereby further limiting the positioning block, restricting its relative displacement along the insertion direction, and improving the connection stability between the positioning block and the first positioning plate and the second positioning plate; at the same time, when disassembly is required, simply press the elastic card to disengage it from the engagement groove, and the positioning block can be pulled out.

[0024] Optionally, a first connecting plate is provided at the end of the first positioning plate away from the motherboard, and a second connecting plate is provided at the end of the second positioning plate away from the first panel. The first panel and the second panel can be bolted to the first connecting plate, and the motherboard can be bolted to the second connecting plate.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the first panel, the second panel, and the main board are connected to the housing through the first connecting plate and the second connecting plate, which can improve the installation stability and overall structural strength of each component and make the relative position between the panel, the main board and the housing more reliable. At the same time, the bolt connection method facilitates the assembly, disassembly and subsequent maintenance of the device.

[0026] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects: 1. The fault relay daughterboard can be directly removed and replaced. Then, the circuit can be switched to other input terminals of the input module / other output terminals of the output module, which can achieve non-stop maintenance. Disassembly is inconvenient and does not require handling complex external circuits like in the past. 2. The overall structure of the device is more compact, which is conducive to equipment miniaturization and high-density integration. At the same time, the internal circuitry has a shorter and more controllable transmission path compared to external connection lines, which helps to reduce parasitic inductance and parasitic capacitance and improve signal transmission stability; 3. The assembly of relay matrices no longer relies on extensive manual wiring and point-by-point connections, reducing the risk of wiring errors during assembly and minimizing the risk of connection failures caused by cable swaying, loosening, poor contact, and long-term vibration. For test systems or industrial control systems requiring long-term continuous operation, this internally integrated connection structure typically offers higher mechanical reliability and operational stability. 4. The input module, output module, control module, and power module are all designed as pluggable daughterboards, allowing each functional unit to be independently disassembled and replaced, thereby further improving the maintainability and maintenance efficiency of the whole machine; at the same time, the functional boundaries of each module are clear, which is conducive to rapid fault location and isolation. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the motherboard in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a relay socket, input socket, output socket, control socket, and power socket according to embodiments of this application.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the relay sub-board in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the input sub-board in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the output sub-board in an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the control subboard in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the power supply sub-board in an embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the slide rail in an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the middle.

[0037] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Enlarged schematic diagram of part B.

[0038] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the connecting block in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the positioning block in an embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the first positioning plate in an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the second positioning plate in an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the matrix circuit in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Main board; 11. Relay socket; 12. Input socket; 13. Output socket; 14. Control socket; 15. Power socket; 2. Input module; 21. Input daughterboard; 22. Input interface; 3. Output module; 31. Output daughterboard; 32. Output interface; 4. Control module; 41. Control daughterboard; 42. Control interface; 5. Relay daughterboard; 6. Power daughterboard; 61. External connector; 7. Housing; 71. 72. First panel; 73. Receiving opening; 74. Handle; 8. Slide rail; 81. Connecting block; 811. Insertion groove; 812. First guide groove; 82. Positioning block; 821. Second guide groove; 822. Insertion rod; 823. Elastic clip; 91. First positioning plate; 911. First positioning hole; 912. First connecting plate; 92. Second positioning plate; 921. Second positioning hole; 922. Second connecting plate; 93. Snap-fit ​​groove. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-16 This application will be described in further detail.

[0045] This application discloses a modular, pluggable relay matrix device.

[0046] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The modular, pluggable relay matrix device includes a main board 1, an input module 2, an output module 3, a control module 4, and multiple relay sub-boards 5; The motherboard 1 is provided with matrix interconnection lines and multiple relay sockets 11. The matrix interconnection lines are used to form the backbone connection lines in the relay matrix switching network, and the multiple relay sockets 11 are electrically connected to the matrix interconnection lines. Each relay sub-board 5 is provided with multiple relays and relay lines connected to the multiple relays. Each relay sub-board 5 is detachably plugged into the corresponding relay socket 11. After the relay sub-board 5 is plugged in, the relay lines are connected to the matrix interconnection lines through the relay socket 11. In this embodiment, the input module 2 is used to receive external input signals, the output module 3 is used to output the switched signal, and the control module 4 is used to input control signals. The control module 4 can control the on / off state of the relay to achieve selective electrical connection between the input module 2 and the output module 3.

[0047] After multiple relay sub-boards 5 are plugged into the main board 1, the input lines of the input module 2, the output lines of the output module 3, the matrix interconnection lines on the main board 1, the relays, and the relay lines together constitute a relay matrix switching network.

[0048] By integrating the matrix interconnection lines onto the main board 1, the number of external transfer cables can be reduced, and the structural integration of the device can be improved. At the same time, the relay sub-board 5 adopts a pluggable design, which facilitates quick replacement in the event of a partial failure, thereby improving the maintenance convenience and continuous operation capability of the device.

[0049] Specifically, the matrix interconnection lines on the motherboard 1 include at least the input side bus lines, the output side bus lines, the switching lines connected to the relay daughterboard 5, the necessary common circuits or reference lines, and the control signal distribution lines; Meanwhile, the motherboard 1 also has a power distribution circuit. The power distribution circuit on the motherboard 1 includes at least power distribution traces, relay coil power supply path, control circuit power supply path, and necessary ground wires and power return design lines.

[0050] Furthermore, multiple relays on each relay sub-board 5 constitute relays in the same row or column in the relay matrix switching network; That is, a relay sub-board 5 does not arbitrarily carry multiple relays that are scattered in the matrix. Instead, the multiple relays of each relay sub-board 5 have a unified affiliation relationship in the matrix logic, and they all correspond to the same row or the same column in the relay matrix switching network.

[0051] like Figure 16 More specifically, if the entire relay matrix switching network is understood as a matrix structure formed by the intersection of several rows and several columns, then: When multiple relays on a relay sub-board 5 form the same row of relays, the relay sub-board 5 can be understood as an input channel in the corresponding matrix. The multiple relays on the relay sub-board 5 are used to achieve selective connection between the input channel and multiple output channels. When multiple relays on a relay sub-board 5 form the same column of relays, the relay sub-board 5 can be understood as an output channel in the corresponding matrix. The multiple relays on the relay sub-board 5 are used to selectively connect multiple input channels to the output channel.

[0052] With this configuration, the functional boundaries of the matrix undertaken by each relay sub-board 5 are clearer, allowing a single relay sub-board 5 to correspond to a row-direction functional unit or a column-direction functional unit in the matrix. Thus, when a relay sub-board 5 fails, it typically only affects the switching function of the corresponding row or column, without simultaneously impacting the switching relationships of multiple dispersed positions in the matrix. This facilitates fault location, modular replacement, and maintenance.

[0053] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the multiple relays on each relay sub-board 5 can also form two or three columns in the relay matrix switching network, corresponding to multiple input channels and / or multiple output channels. With this configuration, a single relay sub-board 5 can carry more relays, thereby reducing the number of relay sub-boards 5 and consequently reducing the number of plug-in positions on the main board 1. This helps to reduce the overall space occupied by the device and improve its integration.

[0054] In other embodiments, the multiple relays on each relay sub-board 5 can also constitute a local matrix network in the relay matrix switching network, such as local cross regions, local switching units corresponding to half rows and half columns, etc. When using this method, the matrix network can be more flexibly divided according to actual application requirements, thereby facilitating customized design for different channel sizes, different signal types, or different installation space requirements.

[0055] However, compared to the arrangement where each relay sub-board 5 corresponds to the same row or column, when a single relay sub-board 5 corresponds to two columns, three columns, or a local matrix network, although the number of sub-boards can be reduced and space utilization can be improved to some extent, when a relay sub-board 5 fails, it may simultaneously affect multiple input channels, multiple output channels, or multiple local switching paths, thereby increasing the scope of the fault impact and making fault location and subsequent maintenance more complicated.

[0056] like Figures 3 to 8 Furthermore, the motherboard 1 is provided with an input socket 12, an output socket 13, a control socket 14, and a power socket 15. The input module 2 includes an input sub-board 21 and an input interface 22 disposed on the input sub-board 21, and the input sub-board 21 can be plugged into the input socket 12; the output module 3 includes an output sub-board 31 and an output interface 32 disposed on the output sub-board 31, and the output sub-board 31 can be plugged into the output socket 13; the control module 4 includes a control sub-board 41 and a control interface 42 disposed on the control sub-board 41, and the control sub-board 41 can be plugged into the control socket 14; the power socket 15 on the motherboard 1 is connected to a power sub-board 6, and the power sub-board 6 is connected to an external connector 61.

[0057] The input sub-board 21 includes at least input lines and a board-end connection portion that mates with the input socket 12 on the motherboard 1. The input interface 22 is connected to the input lines and is used to introduce external input signals into the matrix interconnection lines on the motherboard 1. The output sub-board 31 includes at least output lines and a board-end connection portion that mates with the output socket 13 on the motherboard 1. The output interface 32 is connected to the output lines and is used to output signals switched by the relay matrix to external devices. The control sub-board 41 includes at least control lines and a board-end connection portion that mates with the control socket 14 on the motherboard 1. The control interface 42 is connected to the control lines and is used to receive external control signals and / or output relay control signals. The power supply sub-board 6 includes at least power supply lines and a board-end connection portion that mates with the power socket 15 on the motherboard 1. The external connector 61 is connected to the power supply lines and is used to connect to an external power source and provide operating power to the motherboard 1 and each sub-board.

[0058] In some embodiments, the board-end connections on the relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power sub-board 6 can employ gold finger structures, board-to-board connectors, pin-socket structures, or other connection structures capable of enabling pluggable electrical connections. Correspondingly, the relay socket 11, input socket 12, output socket 13, control socket 14, and power socket 15 can employ edge-clamp connectors, pin header / female header connectors, board-to-board sockets, or other pluggable connection structures adapted to the board-end connections. Through these arrangements, each sub-board can be easily plugged into the main board 1 and establish an electrical connection with the corresponding lines on the main board 1.

[0059] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the input interface 22 and output interface 32 may adopt aviation plugs, terminal blocks, pin headers / female headers, BNC interfaces, DB interfaces, RJ interfaces, or other interface structures suitable for signal input and output; the control interface 42 may adopt serial interfaces, network interfaces, pin headers, terminal blocks, or other interface structures suitable for control signal transmission; the external connector 61 on the power supply daughterboard 6 may adopt power sockets 15, terminal blocks, pluggable power connectors, or other connection structures suitable for external power supply access. The selection can be made according to the signal type, power supply method, and installation requirements of the actual application.

[0060] In this embodiment, after the input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power sub-board 6 are respectively plugged into the main board 1, they can respectively introduce input signals, output signals, control signals, and power supply lines into the main board 1, thereby cooperating with the matrix interconnection lines and multiple relay sub-boards 5 on the main board 1. By setting the input module 2, output module 3, control module 4, and power module as pluggable sub-boards, it is not only convenient to replace and maintain each functional module independently, but also beneficial to change different types of interfaces or functional configurations according to different application requirements, thereby improving the modularity and flexibility of the device.

[0061] Furthermore, the relay sub-board 5 is connected to the first panel 71, and the input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power sub-board 6 are all connected to the second panel 72. The second panel 72 has a receiving slot 73, and the output interface 32, input interface 22, control interface 42, and external connector 61 on the power sub-board 6 are respectively located in the receiving slot 73 of the corresponding second panel 72. Through the above arrangement, the relevant interfaces can be centrally arranged on the corresponding second panel 72, thereby facilitating the connection of external devices to each sub-board and allowing the corresponding sub-board to be removed along with the interface parts during disassembly and assembly.

[0062] This embodiment also includes a housing 7. The first panel 71, the second panel 72, and the housing 7 together form a receiving space, within which the relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power supply sub-board 6 are all located. In other words, each sub-board is installed inside the housing 7 and forms a mating installation relationship with the housing 7 through its corresponding first panel 71 or second panel 72. This arrangement not only allows the functional sub-boards to be centrally arranged inside the housing 7, improving the compactness and integration of the overall structure, but also helps to protect the internal circuits and components, reducing exposure.

[0063] Furthermore, handles 74 are connected to both the first panel 71 and the second panel 72. By providing handles 74, when it is necessary to disassemble the relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, or power sub-board 6, the operator can directly grasp the corresponding handle 74 and pull out the corresponding panel along with the sub-board as a whole, thereby improving the convenience of disassembly and assembly. Especially for pluggable sub-board structures, the handles 74 provide a force application point during the sub-board insertion and removal process, facilitating the smooth movement or pushing of the sub-board in the insertion / removal direction and reducing the risk of damage caused by direct force applied to the interface or the sub-board body.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 may be respectively disposed on the side of the corresponding sub-board away from the main board 1, and the handle 74 may be fixedly disposed on the outer surface of the corresponding panel. Thus, after each sub-board is installed inside the housing 7, the handle 74 may be located on the side near the opening of the housing 7, facilitating direct insertion and removal operations from the outside of the device. It should be understood that, in addition to mounting the handle 74, the first panel 71 and the second panel 72 may also serve to limit, support, and shield the ends of the sub-boards.

[0065] In this embodiment, the relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power supply sub-board 6 are all located on the same side of the main board 1. That is, each functional sub-board extends outward from the same side of the main board 1, rather than being dispersed on both sides. This arrangement ensures a relatively uniform installation direction and assembly area for each sub-board, facilitating internal space planning and improving the centrality and compactness of the device structure.

[0066] Furthermore, the relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power supply sub-board 6 are all vertically arranged, with heat dissipation channels provided between adjacent sub-boards. Specifically, each sub-board extends vertically, maintaining a predetermined spacing between them to create airflow channels between adjacent sub-boards. This arrangement facilitates the array-like arrangement of the sub-boards, improving space utilization, and also promotes the vertical transfer and dissipation of heat within the device.

[0067] In this embodiment, since each sub-board is vertically arranged and a heat dissipation channel is formed between adjacent sub-boards, the heat generated by each sub-board and its components can be discharged upwards along the heat dissipation channel with the airflow during device operation, thereby facilitating the formation of a smoother heat dissipation path inside the housing 7. Compared with the method of horizontally arranged sub-boards, this structure can reduce the accumulation of heat in local areas, improve heat dissipation efficiency, and help improve the long-term operational stability of the relay matrix device.

[0068] Furthermore, the centralized arrangement of all functional sub-boards on the same side of the main board 1 facilitates the unified design of the guiding structure, fixing structure, and maintenance operation space, ensuring good consistency and convenience during insertion, removal, replacement, and maintenance of each sub-board. It should be understood that the spacing between adjacent sub-boards can be adjusted according to sub-board thickness, heat generation, ventilation requirements, and the internal space of the housing 7, to balance device compactness and heat dissipation performance.

[0069] like Figure 9 In this embodiment, a plurality of slide rails 8 are provided inside the housing 7. The slide rails 8 can be provided at the top / bottom / both top and bottom of the housing 7. Each relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41 and power sub-board 6 can move along their respective corresponding slide rails 8 and align with the corresponding sockets plugged into the main board 1, thereby improving the alignment accuracy of each sub-board during the plugging process. like Figure 12 and Figure 13 Furthermore, the slide rail 8 includes a connecting block 81 and positioning blocks 82 disposed at both ends of the connecting block 81. Specifically, the connecting block 81 has insertion grooves 811 extending through both ends therethrough, and a first guide groove 812 is provided on the side of the connecting block 81 facing away from the insertion grooves 811; the two positioning blocks 82 are respectively inserted into the two ends of the connecting block 81 through the insertion grooves 811, that is, the end of the positioning block 82 has a protrusion that can be inserted into the insertion groove 811, and the protrusion cooperates with the insertion groove 811 to limit the longitudinal position of the positioning block 82. Specifically, the protrusion can have a T-shaped / cross-shaped structure, and the protrusion is adapted to the insertion groove 811.

[0070] Each positioning block 82 has a second guide groove 821, and the first guide groove 812 and the second guide groove 821 are interconnected to form a continuous guide channel. Furthermore, the side of the positioning block 82 with the second guide groove 821 is flush with the side of the connecting block 81 with the first guide groove 812. This allows the upper ends of each relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power sub-board 6 to move along their respective first guide grooves 812 and second guide grooves 821, and gradually align with the corresponding insertion positions on the main board 1 under the guidance. Through this configuration, the slide rail 8 can be assembled from the connecting block 81 and the positioning block 82, which not only facilitates assembly but also improves the continuous guiding effect on the sub-board insertion path.

[0071] like Figure 10 ,、 Figure 11 , Figure 14 and Figure 15In this embodiment, a plug rod 822 is provided on the side of the positioning block 82 away from the second guide groove 821, and a first positioning plate 91 and a second positioning plate 92 are provided on the housing 7. The first positioning plate 91 has a plurality of first positioning holes 911, and the second positioning plate 92 has a plurality of second positioning holes 921. The first positioning plate 91 is located near the first panel 71, and the second positioning plate 92 is located near the upright plate.

[0072] During installation, the two positioning blocks 82 are first inserted into the two ends of the connecting block 81, and then the insertion rod 822 on one of the positioning blocks 82 is inserted into the corresponding first positioning hole 911. At the same time, the insertion rod 822 on the other positioning block 82 is inserted into the corresponding second positioning hole 921, thereby fixing the positioning blocks 82 and the connecting block 81 together inside the housing 7. This arrangement allows for quick installation of the slide rail 8 inside the housing 7 and facilitates disassembly and replacement as needed.

[0073] Both the first positioning plate 91 and the second positioning plate 92 have snap-fit ​​grooves 93, and the positioning block 82 is provided with an elastic card 823, with the elastic card 823 and the insertion rod 822 located on the same side. When the insertion rod 822 is inserted into the corresponding first positioning hole 911 or second positioning hole 921, the elastic card 823 can simultaneously snap into the corresponding snap-fit ​​groove 93, thereby further limiting the positioning block 82. The end of the first positioning plate 91 away from the main board 1 is provided with a first connecting plate 912, and the end of the second positioning plate 92 away from the first panel 71 is provided with a second connecting plate 922. The first panel 71 and the second panel 72 can be bolted to the first connecting plate 912, and the main board 1 can be bolted to the second connecting plate 922. Example

[0074] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The modular, pluggable relay matrix device includes a main board 1, an input module 2, an output module 3, a control module 4, a power supply sub-board 6, and twelve relay sub-boards 5.

[0075] The motherboard 1 is provided with an input socket 12, an output socket 13, a control socket 14, a power socket 15, and twelve relay sockets 11. The control socket 14 and the power socket 15 are located near the two ends of the motherboard 1, the output socket 13 is located near the control socket 14, and the input socket 12 is located near the power socket 15. The input socket 12 and the output socket 13 are located between the control socket 14 and the power socket 15. The twelve relay sockets 11 are located between the input socket 12 and the output socket 13, and the twelve relay sockets 11 are arranged at equal intervals along the length of the motherboard 1.

[0076] The motherboard 1 is also equipped with matrix interconnection lines and power distribution circuits. The matrix interconnection lines include input side bus lines, output side bus lines, switching lines connected to relay daughterboard 5, necessary common circuits or reference lines, and control signal distribution lines. The power distribution circuit includes power distribution wiring, relay coil power supply path, control circuit power supply path, and necessary ground wire and power return design lines.

[0077] like Figure 5 The input module 2 includes two input sub-boards 21. Each input sub-board 21 has pins on one side and an input interface 22 on the side away from its pins. The input interface 22 is a pin header connector. Each input sub-board 21 can have twelve input interfaces 22 pluggable. Input lines are provided on the input sub-board 21.

[0078] like Figure 6 The output module 3 includes an output sub-board 31. Pins are provided on one side of the output sub-board 31, and an output interface 32 is provided on the side of the output sub-board 31 away from the pins. The output interface 32 is a pin header connector, and the number of pluggable output interfaces 32 on the output sub-board 31 is twelve. Output lines are provided on the output sub-board 31.

[0079] like Figure 7 The control module 4 includes a control sub-board 41. Pins are provided on one side of the control sub-board 41, and a control interface 42 is provided on the side of the control sub-board away from its pins. The control interface 42 includes a pin header connector and an Ethernet interface. Control lines are provided on the control sub-board 41.

[0080] like Figure 8 The power supply subboard 6 is equipped with power supply lines. A pin is provided on one side of the power supply subboard 6. An external connector 61 is provided on the side of the power supply subboard 6 away from its pin. The power supply subboard 6 is equipped with power supply lines.

[0081] The relay sub-board 5 is equipped with twenty-four relays and relay circuits connected to the twenty-four relays, and pins are provided on one side of the relay sub-board 5.

[0082] The pins of input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, power sub-board 6, and relay sub-board 5 can be plugged into the input socket 12, output socket 13, control socket 14, power socket 15, and relay socket 11 of the main board 1. When all pins are inserted into their corresponding sockets, the input lines, output lines, matrix interconnection lines, relays, and relay lines together form a relay matrix switching network. Furthermore, multiple relays on a single relay sub-board 5 constitute a single row of relays. This relay sub-board 5 can be understood as an output channel within the corresponding matrix, and the multiple relays on the relay sub-board 5 are used to selectively connect this output channel to multiple input channels.

[0083] like Figure 9 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The modular pluggable relay matrix device also includes a housing 7. A cover is bolted to one side of the housing 7. The side of the housing 7 facing away from the cover is open. A first positioning plate 91 and a second positioning plate 92 are respectively provided on the inner top wall and inner bottom wall of the housing 7. The two second positioning plates 92 are arranged opposite each other, and the two first positioning plates 91 are arranged opposite each other. The two first positioning plates 91 are located near the opening of the housing 7, and the two second positioning plates 92 are located near the cover. The first top plate and the second positioning plate 92 are both arranged along the length direction of the housing 7. The first top plate has a plurality of first positioning holes 911, and the second positioning plates 92 have a plurality of second positioning holes 921. The first positioning holes 911 of the two first positioning plates 91 correspond one-to-one, and the second positioning holes 921 of the two second positioning plates 92 correspond one-to-one. The first positioning holes 911 and the second positioning holes 921 located on the top / bottom wall of the housing 7 correspond one-to-one. Furthermore, the first positioning plate 91 and the second positioning plate 92 are each provided with a snap-fit ​​groove 93 along their respective lengths, and the first positioning hole 911 and the second positioning hole 921 are located in their respective snap-fit ​​grooves 93.

[0084] The second positioning plate 92 has a second connecting plate 922 along its length, and the main board 1 is bolted to the second connecting plate 922.

[0085] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13The first positioning plate 91 and the second positioning plate 92 at the top of the housing 7 are connected to slide rails 8, and the first positioning plate 91 and the second positioning plate 92 at the bottom of the housing 7 are also connected to slide rails 8. There are seventeen slide rails 8, each corresponding to a sub-plate. Each slide rail 8 includes a connecting block 81. One side of the connecting block 81 has a insertion groove 811 that extends through both ends of the connecting block 81. In a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting block 81, the insertion groove 811 is cross-shaped. The side of the connecting block 81 opposite to the insertion groove 811 has a first guide groove 812 that extends through both ends of the connecting block 81. Each sub-plate can be accurately inserted into its corresponding socket along the corresponding slide rail 8.

[0086] Positioning blocks 82 are inserted into both ends of the connecting block 81 via insertion slots 811. The ends of the positioning blocks 82 are cross-shaped insertion blocks adapted to the insertion slots 811. The positioning blocks 82 have second guide slots 821 that extend to both ends of the connecting block 81. When the positioning blocks 82 are inserted into the connecting block 81, the side of the connecting block 81 with the first guide slot 812 is flush with the side of the positioning block 82 with the second guide slot 821, so that the first guide slot 812 and the second guide slot 821 are connected.

[0087] Two insertion rods 822 are provided on the side of the positioning block 82 away from the second guide groove 821, and each insertion rod 822 has an elastic card 823 on the side facing the end of the positioning block 82. The first positioning plate 91 and the second positioning plate 92 are both provided with a snap-fit ​​groove 93. The first positioning hole 911 and the second positioning hole 921 are respectively connected to the corresponding snap-fit ​​groove 93. When the insertion rod 822 is inserted into the corresponding first positioning hole 911 / second positioning hole 921, the elastic card 823 is just snapped into the corresponding snap-fit ​​groove 93.

[0088] The first panel 71 is bolted to the side of the relay sub-board 5 away from the main board 1. The second panel 72 is bolted to the side of the input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, power sub-board 6 and control sub-board 41 away from the main board 1. The second panel 72 has a receiving slot 73. The input interface 22, output interface 32 and external connector 61 are all embedded in the corresponding receiving slot 73 of the second panel 72.

[0089] A wrench is bolted to the bottom of the first panel 71 and the second panel 72. A first connecting plate 912 is installed inside each of the two first positioning plates 91, and the first panel 71 is bolted to the first connecting plate 912. A second connecting plate 922 is installed inside each of the two second positioning plates 92, and the second panel 72 is bolted to the second connecting plate 922. All the first panels 71, second panels 72, and the housing 7 together enclose an accommodating space. The relay sub-board 5, input sub-board 21, output sub-board 31, control sub-board 41, and power supply sub-board 6 are all located within this accommodating space.

[0090] The implementation principle of Example 1 is as follows: The specific principle is as follows Figure 16 In Embodiment 1 of this application, a 12x24 relay matrix is ​​constructed. Each relay sub-board 5 is responsible for switching one output. For example, when out1 fails, the wiring corresponding to out1 on the output interface 32 is unplugged and plugged into another channel. Then the corresponding first panel 71 can be loosened, and the relay sub-board 5 can be unplugged for maintenance without affecting its normal operation.

[0091] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A modular, pluggable relay matrix device, characterized in that: It includes a main board (1), an input module (2), an output module (3), a control module (4), and multiple relay sub-boards (5); The motherboard (1) is provided with matrix interconnection lines and multiple relay sockets (11), and the relay subboard (5) can be inserted into the relay sockets (11); The relay sub-board (5) is provided with multiple relays and relay circuits connected to the multiple relays; After the multiple relay sub-boards (5) are plugged into the main board (1), the input lines of the input module (2), the output lines of the output module (3), the matrix interconnection lines on the main board (1), the relays and the relay lines together constitute a relay matrix switching network. The control module (4) is used to control the on / off state of the relay to achieve selective electrical connection between the input module (2) and the output module (3).

2. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Multiple relays on each relay subboard (5) constitute the same row of relays or the same column of relays in the relay matrix switching network.

3. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The motherboard (1) is provided with an input socket (12), an output socket (13) and a control socket (14); The input module (2) includes an input sub-board (21) and an input interface (22), wherein the input sub-board (21) can be plugged into the input socket (12); The output module (3) includes an output sub-board (31) and an output interface (32), and the output sub-board (31) can be plugged into the output socket (13); The control module (4) includes a control sub-board (41) and a control interface (42), wherein the control sub-board (41) can be plugged into the control socket (14); The motherboard (1) is also provided with a power socket (15), and a power sub-board (6) is plugged into the power socket (15). The power sub-board (6) is connected to an external connector (61).

4. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The relay sub-board (5) is connected to a first panel (71). The input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41), and the power sub-board (6) are all connected to a second panel (72). The second panel (72) has a receiving opening (73). The output interface (32), the input interface (22), the control interface (42), and the power sub-board (6) are respectively disposed in the receiving opening (73) of their respective second panels (72). It also includes a housing (7), the first panel (71), the second panel (72) and the housing (7) together enclose an accommodating space, and the relay sub-board (5), the input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41) and the power supply sub-board (6) are all located in the accommodating space.

5. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 4, characterized in that: Both the first panel (71) and the second panel (72) are connected to handles (74).

6. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The relay sub-board (5), the input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41), and the power supply sub-board (6) are all located on the same side of the main board (1), and the relay sub-board (5), the input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41), and the power supply sub-board (6) are all vertically arranged so that heat dissipation channels are left between adjacent sub-boards.

7. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The top of the housing (7) is provided with several slide rails (8), and the relay sub-board (5), the input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41) and the power supply sub-board (6) can move along the corresponding slide rails (8) and be aligned and plugged into the main board (1).

8. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The slide rail (8) includes a connecting block (81), and the connecting block (81) is provided with a plug groove (811). The plug groove (811) extends to both ends of the connecting block (81), and a first guide groove (812) is provided on the side of the connecting block (81) away from the plug groove (811). The two ends of the connecting block (81) are connected to positioning blocks (82) through the insertion slots (811). The positioning block (82) has a second guide slot (821), and the first guide slot (812) and the second guide slot (821) are connected. The relay sub-board (5), the input sub-board (21), the output sub-board (31), the control sub-board (41), and the power sub-board (6) can move along the corresponding first guide groove (812) and second guide groove (821) and be aligned and inserted into the main board (1); A plug rod (822) is provided on the side of the positioning block (82) away from the second guide groove (821). A first positioning plate (91) is provided on the housing (7). A plurality of first positioning holes (911) are opened on the first positioning plate (91). The first positioning plate (91) is located near the first panel (71). A second positioning plate (92) is also provided on the housing (7). A plurality of second positioning holes (921) are opened on the second positioning plate (92). The second positioning plate (92) is located near the main board (1). The insertion rod (822) of one of the positioning blocks (82) is inserted into the first positioning hole (911), and the insertion rod (822) of the other positioning block (82) is inserted into the second positioning hole (921), thereby fixing the positioning block (82) and the connecting block (81) inside the housing (7).

9. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 8, characterized in that: Both the first positioning plate (91) and the second positioning plate (92) are provided with snap-fit ​​grooves (93), and the positioning block (82) is provided with an elastic card (823). The elastic card (823) is provided on the same side as the plug-in rod (822), and the elastic card (823) can be snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove (93).

10. The modular pluggable relay matrix device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first positioning plate (91) has a first connecting plate (912) at one end away from the main board (1), and the second positioning plate (92) has a second connecting plate (922) at one end away from the first panel (71). The first panel (71) and the second panel (72) can be bolted to the first connecting plate (912), and the main board (1) can be bolted to the second connecting plate (922).

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