Optical-detection systems and methods for determining state of engagement of mating connectors, and equipment incorporating same

摘要

A connector-engagement-state detection system for detecting states of engagement of a connector with a connector receiver and for detecting one or more fault states within the detection system itself so as to prevent false engagement state information. In some embodiments, the detection system includes a light source that emits detection light and a light sensor that detects the detection light. The connector-receiver and/or connector are configured, and the light source and the light sensor are located relative to one another so that some of the detection light reaches the sensor regardless of whether or not the connector is fully engaged with the connector-receiver. This arrangement allows for the determination of one or more faults within the detection system itself, such as a faulty light source or faulty detector.

主权项

1. A system for determining state of engagement of an opaque connector with a connector receiver, the system comprising:
a detection-light source fixed relative to the connector receiver, said detection-light source designed and configured to emit detection light when the system is operating; and a light sensor fixed relative to each of the connector receiver and said detection-light source, said light sensor designed and configured to detect light of the detection-light source when the system is operating and to generate an output signal that is proportional to an amount of light reaching said light sensor; wherein said detection-light source and said light sensor are located relative to one another and relative to the connector receiver and the opaque connector so that, when the opaque connector is fully engaged with the connector receiver and the system is operating, the opaque connector blocks a first portion of the detection light from reaching said light sensor but does not block a second portion of the detection light, allowing the second portion of the detection light to pass adjacent to the opaque connector and reach said light sensor.