A quick-release interface structure for camera equipment

Abstract

This invention discloses a quick-connect interface structure for camera equipment. A connector assembly and a conversion module are housed within a housing, with the conversion module located between two connector assemblies. A rubber pad is installed on the housing, fitting snugly against the connector assembly. The connector assembly includes a pin and a first indicator light. The conversion module includes a main control PCB and a top cover, with the main control PCB located between the two top covers. The top cover has a positioning groove that mates with the pin, and first and second conductor plates are installed in the positioning groove. The first and second conductor plates are electrically connected to the main control PCB. After the pin is inserted, it is positioned between the first and second conductor plates. The main control PCB applies excitation to the first and second conductor plates and detects changes in their electrical signals. By comparing these changes, the main control PCB determines whether the pin is inserted into the positioning groove and outputs a corresponding signal via the first indicator light. This design meets user needs and provides ease of use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical interface technology, and in particular to a quick-connect interface structure for camera equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Camera equipment comes with a wide variety of interfaces, such as USB, GigE, standard HDMI, mini-HDMI, Micro-HDMI, and manufacturer-developed interfaces. However, cameras generally come with two interfaces, which makes their expansion capabilities relatively poor, especially for devices using Micro-HDMI or manufacturer-developed interfaces. Therefore, users often need to use adapter cables or converters when using expansion devices (such as external storage devices, monitors, controllers, etc.).

[0003] For users who need to use multiple different cameras or auxiliary video equipment, whose devices vary in age and have different interface types, it is often difficult to standardize them. This frequently necessitates carrying multiple adapter cables or converters, which is extremely inconvenient. To solve this problem, users tend to use adapters with multiple interfaces; however, these adapters are bulky and heavy, especially in length. This makes it difficult to ensure the cables remain suspended after connection, as they are prone to sagging and loosening. Their relatively long length also makes them inconvenient for photographers to carry in their pockets.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a quick-connect interface structure for camera equipment that can solve one or more of the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address one or more problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides a quick-release interface structure for camera equipment. The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the above problems is: a quick-release interface structure for camera equipment, wherein a connector assembly and a conversion module are installed in a housing, the conversion module is fixed inside the housing, the conversion module is located between two connector assemblies, a rubber pad is installed on the inner wall of the housing, the rubber pad fits against the connector assembly, the housing is provided with a slot, the rubber pad is inserted into the slot, and the rubber pad is pulled outward through the slot; The connector assembly has an interface on its front side, through which it connects to an external interface and is electrically connected to the conversion module. The connector assembly has a plug on its back side and a first indicator light on its front side, which indicates whether the connector assembly is properly inserted. The conversion module performs interface conversion for the two connector assemblies. The conversion module is equipped with a main control PCB and a top cover. The main control PCB is equipped with an interface conversion IC and supporting circuits. The top cover is made of insulating material. The main control PCB is located between the two top covers. The top cover has a positioning groove on the side facing the connector assembly that mates with the plug. A first conductor plate and a second conductor plate are respectively installed on the upper and lower sides of the positioning groove. The first conductor plate and the second conductor plate are electrically connected to the main control PCB. After the plug is inserted into place, it is located between the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate. The main control PCB applies voltage or current excitation to the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate, and detects the changes in electrical signals between the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate. The main control PCB determines whether the plug is inserted into the positioning slot by comparing the changes in electrical signals and outputs the corresponding signal through the first indicator light.

[0006] In some embodiments, the free end of the second conductor plate is movably disposed, an elastic top plate is mounted on the lower side of the second conductor plate, the second conductor plate abuts against the elastic top plate and its free end is disposed horizontally or downward, and the elastic top plate is compressed downward after the insertion post is inserted into the positioning groove.

[0007] In some embodiments, a plug is provided on the back of the connector assembly, and four pins are arranged around the plug, the length of the pins being greater than the length of the plug; The positioning slots are provided in four places, and the top cover is provided with a socket. The socket is electrically connected to the main control PCB and is used to electrically connect to the plug.

[0008] In some embodiments, a second indicator light is provided on the front side of the connector assembly, the second indicator light being used to indicate the working status of the connector assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the housing is provided with a fixing hole, and the top cover is provided with a screw hole, through which a screw passes and connects to the fixing hole.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the housing is provided with a slide rail, the connector assembly is provided with a first slide groove that mates with the slide rail, the conversion module is provided with a second slide groove that mates with the slide rail, and the slide rail avoids the rubber pad.

[0011] In some embodiments, the housing is encased in a silicone sleeve, the opening of which is provided with an edge covering the front edge of the connector assembly.

[0012] Furthermore, the outer shell is provided with a slot, and the silicone sleeve engages with the slot.

[0013] The technical advantages achieved by this invention are as follows: the quick-release structure composed of connector components and conversion modules provides a replaceable physical interface for the interface converter. Users can adapt to different data transmission lines by replacing connector components with different physical interfaces. Compared with traditional multi-physical interface converters, the connector components are small in size and weight and can be carried separately. The overall size and weight are even smaller, making it convenient for users to carry in their pockets. After being plugged into the data transmission line, it can be used in the air, which greatly reduces the drop of the converter when it is suspended in the air and reduces the risk of loosening caused by the drop. The connector assembly is tightly fitted inside the housing by a rubber pad. While meeting the daily insertion and retention force requirements, a large external pulling force will pull the connector assembly out, avoiding damage to the internal structure from sudden external pulling force. Compared with the traditional snap-on quick-installation structure, there is no risk of snap-on damage, making it more durable. The rubber pad replacement cost is low, and maintenance is more convenient. By setting electrode plates in the positioning groove to form a capacitor structure, the insertion of the connector assembly can be detected, overcoming the problem of difficulty in determining proper insertion caused by tight fitting with rubber pads. Users can judge by the indicator light without carefully observing the product appearance, which is more convenient. Compared with judging by microswitches or copper foil / contact circuits, it has higher reliability and durability. When data transmission problems occur, users can use the indicator light signal to determine whether it is a problem with the converter loosening or a problem with the data transmission line. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the present invention; Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the outer casing of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connector assembly of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the conversion module of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the connector assembly and the conversion module of the present invention.

[0016] In the diagram, 1. Outer shell; 10. Groove; 11. Fixing hole; 12. Slide rail; 13. Rubber pad; 14. Slot; 2. Connector assembly; 20. Interface; 21. First indicator light; 22. Second indicator light; 23. Plug; 24. Insert; 25. First slide groove; 3. Conversion module; 30. Main control PCB; 31. Top cover; 310. Socket; 311. Positioning groove; 3110. First conductor plate; 3111. Second conductor plate; 3112. Elastic top plate; 312. Screw hole; 313. Second slide groove; 4. Silicone sleeve; 40. Edge binding. Detailed Implementation

[0017] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more readily understood, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0018] This invention discloses a quick-release interface structure for camera equipment, such as... Figures 1-3 As shown, the outer shell 1 is fitted with a connector assembly 2 and a conversion module 3. The conversion module 3 is fixed inside the outer shell 1 and is located between the two connector assemblies 2. A rubber pad 13 is installed on the inner wall of the outer shell 1. The rubber pad 13 is T-shaped and fits against the connector assembly 2. The outer shell 1 is provided with a slot 10. The rubber pad 13 is inserted into the slot 10 and pulled out through the slot 10. Combination Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown, the connector assembly 2 has an interface 20 on its front side. The connector assembly 2 connects to an external interface through the interface 20. There are multiple connector assemblies 2, each with a different physical interface. The connector assembly 2 is electrically connected to the conversion module 3. The back of the connector assembly 2 has a plug 24, and the front of the connector assembly 2 has a first indicator light 21. The first indicator light 21 is used to indicate whether the connector assembly 2 is inserted in place. Combination Figure 5 As shown, the conversion module 3 performs interface conversion on the two connector assemblies 2. The conversion module 3 is provided with a main control PCB 30 and a top cover 31. The main control PCB 30 is provided with an interface conversion IC and supporting circuits. The top cover 31 is made of insulating material. The main control PCB 30 is located between the two top covers 31. Combination Figure 6As shown, the top cover 31 has a positioning groove 311 on the side facing the connector assembly 2, which mates with the insertion post 24. The insertion post 24 is inserted into the positioning groove 311. A first conductor plate 3110 and a second conductor plate 3111 are respectively installed on the upper and lower sides of the positioning groove 311. The first conductor plate 3110 and the second conductor plate 3111 are electrically connected to the main control PCB 30. After the insertion post 24 is inserted into place, it is located between the first conductor plate 3110 and the second conductor plate 3111. The main control PCB 30 applies voltage or current excitation to the first conductor plate 3110 and the second conductor plate 3111, and detects the changes in electrical signals of the first conductor plate 3110 and the second conductor plate 3111. The main control PCB 30 determines whether the plug 24 is inserted into the positioning slot 311 by comparing the changes in electrical signals and outputs the corresponding signal through the first indicator light 21. When in use, the connector assembly 2 with different physical connectors can be replaced as needed, and the first indicator light 21 can be used to determine whether the connector assembly 2 is properly inserted.

[0019] Specifically, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the outer shell 1 is wrapped with a silicone sleeve 4. The opening of the silicone sleeve 4 is provided with an edge 40, which covers the front edge of the connector assembly 2. The outer shell 1 is provided with a slot 14, and the silicone sleeve 4 is engaged with the slot 14. The silicone sleeve 4 is provided to protect the outer shell 1 and wrap the connector assembly 2.

[0020] It should be noted that the main control PCB 30 can be equipped with a high-performance IC as a conversion IC, or multiple conversion ICs of different types. The main control PCB 30 is an existing conversion IC control board. The main control PCB 30 controls the opening and closing and color of the first indicator light 21. After the insertion post 24 is inserted into the positioning slot 311, the first conductor plate 3110, the second conductor plate 3111, and the insertion post 24 form a capacitor. The main control PCB 30 determines whether the connector assembly 2 is inserted into the correct position by detecting the capacitance value of this capacitor.

[0021] Furthermore, a second indicator light 22 is provided on the front side of the connector assembly 2. The second indicator light 22 is used to indicate the working status of the connector assembly 2, such as the data transmission status and power supply status.

[0022] When the connector assembly 2 needs to be pulled out, the rubber pad 13 is pulled outward through the slot 10, so that the contact surface between the connector assembly 2 and the rubber pad 13 is reduced, making it easier to pull out the connector assembly 2 without having to lengthen the connector assembly 2. When the connector assembly 2 needs to be inserted, the rubber pad 13 is reset and pressed in forcefully.

[0023] Specifically, in combination Figures 3-5 As shown, the outer shell 1 is provided with a fixing hole 11, and the top cover 31 is provided with a screw hole 312. The screw passes through the fixing hole 11 and connects with the screw hole 312. The inner wall of the outer casing 1 is provided with a slide rail 12, the connector assembly 2 is provided with a first slide groove 25 that cooperates with the slide rail 12, the conversion module 3 is provided with a second slide groove 313 that cooperates with the slide rail 12, and the slide rail 12 avoids the rubber pad 13.

[0024] Specifically, in combination Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, a plug 23 is provided on the back of the connector assembly 2, and four pins 24 are arranged around the plug 23. The length of the pins 24 is greater than the length of the plug 23. When the connector assembly 2 falls, the pins 24 will hit the ground before the plug 23, thereby protecting the plug 23. The positioning slots 311 are provided with four corresponding slots. The top cover 31 is provided with a socket 310. The socket 310 is electrically connected to the main control PCB 30. The socket 310 is used to electrically connect to the plug 23. The main control PCB 30 controls the indicator light through the electrical connection between the plug 23 and the socket 310.

[0025] Combination Figure 6 As shown, the free end of the second conductor plate 3111 is movably disposed, and an elastic top plate 3112 is installed on the lower side of the second conductor plate 3111. The second conductor plate 3111 abuts against the elastic top plate 3112 and its free end is horizontal or downward disposed to facilitate the insertion of the insertion post 24. After the insertion post 24 is inserted into the positioning groove 311, the elastic top plate 3112 is compressed downward. By setting the elastic top plate 3112 so that the two plates contact the insertion post 24, the detection accuracy is improved and a certain holding force is provided.

[0026] In summary, the quick-release structure composed of connector components and conversion modules provides the interface converter with replaceable physical interfaces. Users can adapt to different data transmission lines by replacing the connector components with different physical interfaces. Compared with traditional multi-physical interface converters, the connector components are small in size and weight and can be carried separately. The overall size and weight are smaller, making it convenient for users to carry in their pockets. After being plugged into the data transmission line, it can be used in the air, which greatly reduces the drop of the converter when it is suspended in the air and reduces the risk of loosening caused by the drop. The connector assembly is tightly fitted inside the housing by a rubber pad. While meeting the daily insertion and retention force requirements, a large external pulling force will pull the connector assembly out, avoiding damage to the internal structure from sudden external pulling force. Compared with the traditional snap-on quick-installation structure, there is no risk of snap-on damage, making it more durable. The rubber pad replacement cost is low, and maintenance is more convenient. By setting electrode plates in the positioning groove to form a capacitor structure, the insertion of the connector assembly can be detected, overcoming the problem of difficulty in determining proper insertion caused by tight fitting with rubber pads. Users can judge by the indicator light without carefully observing the product appearance, which is more convenient. Compared with judging by microswitches or copper foil / contact circuits, it has higher reliability and durability. When data transmission problems occur, users can use the indicator light signal to determine whether it is a problem with the converter loosening or a problem with the data transmission line.

[0027] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of one or more implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A quick-connect interface structure for camera equipment, characterized in that, The housing is fitted with connector assemblies and conversion modules. The conversion modules are fixed inside the housing and located between the two connector assemblies. A rubber pad is installed on the inner wall of the housing and fits against the connector assemblies. The housing is provided with a slot, and the rubber pad is inserted into the slot and pulled out through the slot. The connector assembly has an interface on its front side, through which it connects to an external interface and is electrically connected to the conversion module. The connector assembly has a plug on its back side and a first indicator light on its front side, which indicates whether the connector assembly is properly inserted. The conversion module performs interface conversion for the two connector assemblies. The conversion module is equipped with a main control PCB and a top cover. The main control PCB is equipped with an interface conversion IC and supporting circuits. The top cover is made of insulating material. The main control PCB is located between the two top covers. The top cover has a positioning groove on the side facing the connector assembly that mates with the plug. A first conductor plate and a second conductor plate are respectively installed on the upper and lower sides of the positioning groove. The first conductor plate and the second conductor plate are electrically connected to the main control PCB. After the plug is inserted into place, it is located between the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate. The main control PCB applies voltage or current excitation to the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate, and detects the changes in electrical signals between the first conductor plate and the second conductor plate. The main control PCB determines whether the plug is inserted into the positioning slot by comparing the changes in electrical signals and outputs the corresponding signal through the first indicator light.

2. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The free end of the second conductor plate is movably disposed, and an elastic top plate is installed on the lower side of the second conductor plate. The second conductor plate abuts against the elastic top plate and its free end is horizontal or downward. After the insertion post is inserted into the positioning groove, the elastic top plate is compressed downward.

3. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector assembly has a plug on its back side, and four pins are arranged around the plug, with the length of each pin being greater than the length of the plug. The positioning slots are provided in four places, and the top cover is provided with a socket. The socket is electrically connected to the main control PCB and is used to electrically connect to the plug.

4. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second indicator light is provided on the front of the connector assembly, which is used to indicate the working status of the connector assembly.

5. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer casing is provided with fixing holes, and the top cover is provided with screw holes, through which screws are connected.

6. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the housing is provided with a slide rail, the connector assembly is provided with a first slide groove that mates with the slide rail, the conversion module is provided with a second slide groove that mates with the slide rail, and the slide rail avoids the rubber pad.

7. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell is encased in a silicone sleeve, the opening of which is provided with an edge covering the front edge of the connector assembly.

8. The quick-release interface structure for camera equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer shell is provided with a slot, and the silicone sleeve is engaged with the slot.

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