SYSTEM FOR CHECKING THE CONNECTION STATE OF A CONNECTOR AND METHOD FOR THIS

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for checking the connection status of a connector and a method therefor, the system comprising: signal detection units (110) attached to a user's fingers to detect a plurality of assembly signals transmitted to the user's fingers during the assembly of a connector, a pattern data generation unit (130) configured to receive the plurality of assembly signals detected by the signal detection units (110) and to generate pattern data based on the received assembly signals, and a connection status determination unit (200) configured to receive the pattern data generated by the pattern data generation unit (130) and to determine the connection status of the connector based on the received pattern data.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for checking the connection state of a connector and a method therefor, and in particular to a system for checking the connection state of a connector and a method therefor, which are capable of determining the connection state of a connector by receiving pattern data that are generated when a user performs a connector connection operation while wearing a device for checking the connection state of a connector. Background technology

[0002] In the manufacturing process of automotive interior materials, electrical components installed in the door panel are typically connected to cables via connectors. After a connector is attached, a worker performs a pull test to verify the connection is secure, i.e., to determine if the connector's condition is normal. Because the process of checking connector connections is entirely manual, the reliability of the check depends on the worker's skill, which is problematic.

[0003] In response to this problem, a method was developed to determine the connection status of a connector based on image and sound data captured by a camera or sound sensor. However, realistically, it is difficult to capture all image data from numerous connectors plugged into the production site, and the accuracy of determining a connector's connection status is significantly reduced because sound data is typically difficult to capture due to unnecessary noise in and around the production site.

[0004] Accordingly, a method is needed to improve the accuracy of determining the connection status of the connector when a user connects a connector themselves, thereby improving the marketability of the connector.

[0005] The above description as a related technique to the present disclosure serves only to provide background information on the present disclosure and should not be regarded as part of the related technique known to the person skilled in the art. Revelation Technical Problem

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide a system and a method for checking the connection state of a connector, which are capable of determining the connection state of a connector by receiving pattern data generated when a user performs a connector connection operation while wearing a device for checking the connection state of a connector.

[0007] The objectives to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and further, unmentioned objectives will be clearly understood by experts, to whom the present disclosure belongs, from the description below. Technical solution

[0008] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, a system for verifying the connection status of a connector is provided, comprising: signal detection units attached to a user's fingers to detect multiple assembly signals transmitted to the user's fingers during the assembly of a connector; a pattern data generation unit configured to receive the multiple assembly signals detected by the signal detection units and to generate pattern data based on the received assembly signals; and a connection status determination unit configured to receive the pattern data generated by the pattern data generation unit and to determine the connection status of the connector based on the received pattern data.

[0009] For example, each of the signal detection units can be designed in a ring shape.

[0010] For example, the signal detection units can be attached to the user's thumb and index finger.

[0011] For example, the pattern data generation unit can be connected to the signal detection unit via a connecting line and receive the majority of assembly signals via the connecting line.

[0012] For example, the pattern data generation unit can wirelessly transmit the generated pattern data to the outside.

[0013] For example, the pattern data generation unit can generate the pattern data by synthesizing the received assembly signals.

[0014] For example, the connection status determination unit can be set up to receive signals based on a LoRa network (LoRA = "Long Range").

[0015] For example, the connection state determination unit can determine the connection state of the connector by analyzing a size of the received sample data and comparing the size with a size of a preset reference value.

[0016] For example, the system may also have a connection state output unit which is configured to output the connection state of the connector determined by the connection state determination unit.

[0017] For example, the connection status output unit can issue an "properly connected" notification when the connector's connection status is determined to be normal, and issue a vibration notification when the connector's connection status is determined to be abnormal.

[0018] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, a method for verifying the connection status of a connector is provided, wherein the method comprises: detecting a plurality of assembly signals transmitted to a user's fingers during an assembly process of a connector, receiving the plurality of assembly signals, generating pattern data based on the received assembly signals, receiving the generated pattern data, and determining a connection status of the connector based on the received pattern data.

[0019] For example, generating the pattern data can also involve generating the pattern data by synthesizing the received assembly signals.

[0020] For example, determining the connection state of the connector may also involve determining the connection state of the connector by analyzing a size of the received sample data and comparing the size with a size of a preset reference value.

[0021] For example, the procedure can further include the output of the determined connection status of the connector to the outside. Beneficial effects

[0022] According to a system and a method for checking the connection state of a connector of the present disclosure,

[0023] Furthermore, the accuracy in determining the connection status of the connector can be improved, which in turn increases the marketability of the connector.

[0024] The effects to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and further, unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs, from the description below. Description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a block view showing the configuration of a system for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a view showing the system for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a view showing the configuration of a signal detection unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a graph showing an assembly signal which is transmitted according to a connection state of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a block view showing the configuration of a pattern data generation unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the system for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Implementation of the invention

[0025] The embodiments disclosed in this description are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals in the drawings, identical or similar components are designated with the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0026] The suffixes “module” and “part (unit)”, which are used in the following description for components, are only given to simplify the writing of the description or are used interchangeably and do not in themselves have different meanings or roles.

[0027] If, in explaining the embodiments disclosed in this description, it is determined that a detailed description of related known technologies could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this description, the detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings serve only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this description, and the technical ideas disclosed in this description are not limited by the accompanying drawings and are to be understood as encompassing all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that are contained in the essence and technical scope of the present disclosure. Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe numerous components, but the components are not limited by these terms.The terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0028] When a component is described as "connected" to another component, this means that it may be directly connected to that other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when a component is described as "directly connected to another component," this means that there are no other components in between.

[0029] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] It is to be understood that in this description, terms such as "exhibit (include)" or "have" are intended to indicate that a characteristic, a certain number, a step, a process, a component, a part or a combination thereof described in the description is present, and do not exclude the possibility of adding or having one or more further characteristics or numbers, steps, processes, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is proposed to determine the connection state of a connector by receiving pattern data which are generated when a user performs a connector connection operation while wearing a device for checking the connection state of a connector.

[0032] Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 is a block view or a view showing the configuration of a system for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 mainly shows components relating to the present embodiment, and in the actual implementation of the system for checking the connection status of a connector, fewer or more components than those shown may be used. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 as shown.

[0033] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. A system for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment may include a signal detection unit 110, a pattern data generation unit 130, a connection status determination unit 200 and a connection status output unit 220.

[0034] In particular, the connection status of a connector can be determined while a user wears a sensor unit 100. The sensor unit 100 can include the signal detection unit 110, which is attached to the user's finger, and the pattern data generation unit 130, which is positioned on the back of the user's hand and wrist and is secured by a connection unit 131. Furthermore, the sensor unit 100 can communicate with the connection status determination unit 200, which is typically configured to have a program installed for analyzing pattern data and determining the connection status of a connector. It is set up using an industrial computer to withstand the harsh conditions of a production plant.

[0035] The individual components are described in detail below.

[0036] Initially, the signal detection unit 110 is attached to the user's finger and can detect multiple assembly signals transmitted to the user's finger during the connector assembly process. The signal detection unit 110 is ring-shaped and can be worn on the user's thumb and index finger. As the user repeatedly assembles connectors, assembly signals are transmitted to the thumb and index finger, and the signal detection unit 110 can preprocess each detected assembly signal and transmit it to the pattern data generation unit 130.

[0037] The configuration of the signal detection unit 110 is described with reference to Fig. 3 described in detail.

[0038] Fig. Figure 3 is a view showing the configuration of the signal detection unit 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] With reference to Fig. Figure 3 states that the signal detection unit 110 comprises a first film 112 and a third film 114, which wrap around a second film 113, a crimp contact 115, and upper and lower covers 111, which surround the first film 112, the second film 113, the third film 114, and the crimp contact 115. Preferably, the first film 112, the second film 113, and the third film 114 are each made of acrylic material, piezoelectric material, and polyester material, respectively. The second film 113 is made of piezoelectric PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) with a thickness of 28 µm and is surrounded by the first film 112 and the third film 114. The crimp contact 115 can serve as a connecting element that transmits a signal generated by the second film 113. The end of the crimp contact 115 can be designed as a cantilever so that the signal from the second film 113 can be amplified.In addition, the upper and lower covers 111 can fix the crimp contact 115 in a vertical direction and at the same time protect each film and crimp contact 115 from external influences.

[0040] Fig. Figure 4 is a graph showing an assembly signal which is transmitted according to a connection state of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] With reference to Fig. 4. The waveform of the assembly signal can be determined according to the connection state of the connector. Part A is the signal waveform before the connector is connected, Part B is the signal waveform at the time the connector is connected, and Part C is the signal waveform during the connection verification phase. The assembly signal does not change before the connector is connected, and the change in the assembly signal is significant at the time of connection. Furthermore, the assembly signal changes during the connection verification process by pulling on the connector in the direction of disconnection to determine whether the connector is securely and correctly connected. Since the change in the assembly signal is uniquely dependent on the connection state of the connector, this method improves the accuracy of determining the connection state of the connector.

[0042] Next, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the pattern data generation unit 130 is connected to the signal detection unit 110 by a connecting line 120 and can receive a plurality of assembly signals through the connecting line 120. This is shown with reference to Fig. 5 described.

[0043] Fig. Figure 5 is a block view showing the configuration of the pattern data generation unit 130 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] With reference to Fig. 5. The internal configuration of the pattern data generation unit 130 can be identified. The pattern data generation unit 130 is designed as a sensor board and can receive a mounting signal from the signal detection unit 110 using a LoRa network (LoRA = "Long Range"). The LoRa network is optimized for security, enables communication over long distances, and allows data acquisition by multiple sensors.

[0045] The pattern data generation unit 130 can read changes from the signal detection unit 110 via a sensor driver 133. Specifically, an MCU 137 can execute the overall functions of extended commands and units, data acquisition and processing commands, and wireless data communication via a LoRa module. The pattern data generation unit 130 can perform firmware configuration and updates via a diagnostic port 139a and implement a power supply in the form of a battery 135. Furthermore, a communication module 139b can establish a connection to a LoRa gateway and enable data transmission at a high sampling rate (800 Hz or higher).

[0046] Furthermore, the pattern data generation unit 130 can receive a plurality of assembly signals detected by the signal detection unit 110 and generate pattern data based on the majority of the received assembly signals. In this case, the pattern data generation unit 130 can generate pattern data by synthesizing the assembly signals transmitted to the thumb and index finger respectively, and wirelessly transmitting the generated pattern data externally.

[0047] Next, the connection status determination unit 200 can receive the pattern data generated by the pattern data generation unit 130. The connection status determination unit 200 is configured to receive a signal based on the LoRa network in order to wirelessly receive pattern data transmitted externally by the pattern data generation unit 130, and can determine the connection status of a connector based on the received pattern data.

[0048] The Connection State Determination Unit 200 can determine the connector connection state by analyzing the size of the received sample data and comparing the result to the size of a preset reference value. For example, the Connection State Determination Unit 200 can determine the connector connection state as "normal (properly connected)" if the sample data size is larger than the reference value, and it can determine the connector connection state as "not connected" if the sample data size is smaller than the reference value. This allows the sample data generated during the connector connection process to be received and the connector connection state to be determined in real time.

[0049] Furthermore, the connection status output unit 220 can output the connection status of a connector, as determined by the connection status determination unit 200. In this case, the connection status output unit 220 can be provided as a separate structure, or its function can be performed by the pattern data generation unit 130 or the connection status determination unit 200. If the connector's connection status is determined to be normal, the connection status output unit 220 can output a "properly connected" notification. If the connector's connection status is determined to be abnormal, a vibration notification is sent to the user so that the user can recheck the connector's connection status to ensure a normal connection.

[0050] Based on the configuration of the system for checking the connection status of a connector as described above, a method for checking the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 6 explained.

[0051] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the system for inspecting the connection status of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] With reference to Fig.6. The user can initially wear the signal detection unit 110 on their fingers (S610). While wearing the signal detection unit 110, the user performs the connector connection work (S620), and while the work is being carried out, the signal detection unit 110 can detect multiple assembly signals through the thumb and index finger (S630). Subsequently, the pattern data generation unit 130 can receive multiple assembly signals and generate pattern data based on the received assembly signals (S640). Following this, the connection status determination unit 200 can receive wirelessly transmitted pattern data and determine the connection status of the connector based on the received pattern data (S650).The connection status output unit 220 can issue an "properly paired" notification externally if the connection status of the connector is determined to be normal (Yes from S660), and if the connection status of the connector is determined to be abnormal (No from S660), the connection status output unit 220 can send a vibration notification to the user so that the user can recheck the connection status of the connector to ensure a proper connection (S680).

[0053] According to the embodiments described so far in the present disclosure, it is possible to determine the connection state of a connector by receiving pattern data generated when a user performs a connector connection operation while wearing a device for checking the connection state of a connector. Furthermore, the accuracy of determining the connection state of the connector can be increased, thereby improving the marketability of the connector.

[0054] Although the present disclosure has been presented and described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be obvious to the person skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be improved and modified in numerous ways without deviating from the technical essence of the present disclosure as defined by the following claims. [Description of reference symbols] 100 sensor units 110 Signal detection unit 111 upper and lower cover 112 first film 113 second film 114 third film 115 crimp contact 120 connecting cable 130 Sample Data Generation Unit 131 Connection unit 133 Sensor drivers 135 battery 137 MCU 139a Diagnostic port 139b Communication module 200 Connection status determination unit 220 Connection status output unit

Claims

[1] A system for checking the connection status of a connector, comprising the system: Signal detection units (110) attached to a user's fingers to detect a plurality of assembly signals transmitted to the user's fingers during an assembly process of a connector, a pattern data generation unit (130) which is configured to receive the majority of assembly signals detected by the signal detection units (110) and to generate pattern data based on the received assembly signals, and a connection state determination unit (200) which is configured to receive the pattern data generated by the pattern data generation unit (130) and to determine the connection state of the connector based on the received pattern data. [2] The system according to claim 1, wherein each of the signal detection units (110) is formed in a ring shape. [3] The system according to claim 1, wherein the signal detection units (110) are each attached to a thumb and an index finger of the user. [4] The system according to claim 1, wherein the pattern data generation unit (130) is connected to the signal detection unit (110) via a connecting line (120) and receives the majority of assembly signals via the connecting line (120). [5] The system according to claim 1, wherein the pattern data generation unit (130) is configured to wirelessly transmit the generated pattern data to the outside. [6] The system according to claim 1, wherein the pattern data generation unit (130) is configured to generate the pattern data by synthesizing the received assembly signals. [7] The system according to claim 1, wherein the connection status determination unit (200) is configured to receive signals based on a LoRa network. [8] The system according to claim 1, wherein the connection state determination unit (200) is configured to determine the connection state of the connector by analyzing a size of the received pattern data and comparing the size with a size of a preset reference value. [9] The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a connection state output unit (220) which is configured to output the connection state of the connector determined by the connection state determination unit (200) to the outside. [10] The system according to claim 9, wherein the connection status output unit is configured to output an “properly connected” notification when the connection status of the connector is determined to be normal, and to output a vibration notification when the connection status of the connector is determined to be abnormal. [11] A method for checking the connection status of a connector, wherein the method comprises: Detecting multiple assembly signals transmitted to a user's fingers during the assembly process of the connector, Receiving the majority of assembly signals, Generating pattern data based on the received assembly signals, Receiving the generated pattern data, and Determining the connection status of the connector based on the received sample data. [12] The method according to claim 11, wherein the generation of the pattern data further comprises: Generating the pattern data by synthesizing the received assembly signals. [13] The method according to claim 11, wherein determining the connection state of the connector further comprises: Determining the connection status of the connector by analyzing a size of the received pattern data and comparing the size with a size of a preset reference value. [14] The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Outputting the determined connection status of the connector to the outside.

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