A segmented mold operator includes a main frame fixed to an upper cavity part of a tire press cavity and a control plunger with an axially movable cylinder rod that is configured to apply a squeeze pressure to the tire press cavity. A rotatable lock ring is rotatably coupled about an end of the cylinder rod and axially movable therewith. The lock ring includes a plurality of teeth radially arranged thereon to interface with a mold ring adapter via a bayonet connection. A lock ring frame is independent from the rotatable lock ring and is separated therefrom along the cylinder rod. A locking plunger is configured to selectively engage the rotatable lock ring to thereby prevent rotation of the rotatable lock ring. An electronic lock sensor is configured to electronically sense an axial position of the lock rod.