Connector assembly and lighting equipment thereof

Abstract

The utility model discloses a connector assembly used for connecting a flexible LED strip to a power supply cable, the connector assembly comprises a first connecting element and a second connecting element, and the two elements are separated and can be connected with each other. The first connecting element can be electrically connected to a conductor wire of a power supply cable, and the second connecting element comprises a first connecting seat and a second connecting seat which are electrically connected with each other through an electrical conductor. The first connecting seat is configured to be received through the first connecting part of the electric conductor and electrically connected with the first connecting element, and the second connecting seat is configured to be received through the second connecting part of the electric conductor and electrically connected with the electric connecting end of the flexible LED strip without welding. Specifically, the connector assembly further comprises a buckle fixing device which is used for fixing the first connecting element and the second connecting element to be connected with the first connecting seat through a buckle. The utility model also relates to a lighting device comprising the connector assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a connector assembly or connection system for flexible LED light strips, which is specifically designed to provide a simple and reliable way to connect the flexible LED light strip to a power cable, thereby providing power to the light-emitting diodes of the LED light strip. Background Technology

[0002] Flexible LED light strips (hereinafter referred to as "LED light strips") are being used more and more widely in various applications, especially in areas where linear lighting is required due to space constraints, design needs, or aesthetic requirements.

[0003] Therefore, these LED light strips are used in a variety of home and commercial applications, including but not limited to: furniture lighting (such as kitchen, living room, wardrobe, bed, display cabinet, mirror and bathroom cabinet), bar lighting, TV backlighting, architectural lighting, staircase lighting, partial or recessed lighting of room walls or ceilings, car interior lighting, decoration, etc.

[0004] Generally, a flexible LED light strip comprises a flexible material strip with multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) fixed along its front surface and an adhesive layer on its rear surface. The flexible material strip typically has a multi-layer structure, including one or more flexible substrate layers, electrical conductors typically made of copper (serving as circuit lines connecting to the LEDs), a coating layer, and possibly an adhesive material.

[0005] LED systems offer higher electrical efficiency compared to incandescent or fluorescent lamps. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can emit the same light radiation (i.e., the same color) and can be configured to emit different colors or change colors (i.e., change hues) as needed, thus providing a wide range of light source options.

[0006] Furthermore, individual LED light sources are relatively small in size, ranging from a fraction of a millimeter in diameter to a square centimeter or larger occupied by a group of LEDs providing the same light source. These LED light sources themselves may include lenses, reflectors, phosphors, and diffusers, which affect the size, shape, and appearance of the light.

[0007] Most conventional flexible LED light strips use a low-voltage power supply, such as 12 to 24 volts DC. The power supply for the flexible LED light strip is connected to the power supply unit via a connector device, typically via a power cable connected to the connector section of the light strip.

[0008] Although existing connection devices can effectively connect flexible LED light strips to power cables in many cases, they still have some drawbacks.

[0009] In practice, the installation and securing of flexible LED light strips is generally automated on the production line or performed manually by operators at the installation site or on the production line. However, these installation / secured steps involve handling the lighting fixture (consisting of the flexible LED light strip and power cable, connected via connectors), and the power cable may also be connected to a power conversion device. Specifically, the flexible LED light strip must be connected to the power cable via connectors before it can be installed / secured onto the equipment.

[0010] Therefore, operating the entire lighting fixture (including the flexible LED strip and multiple components of the power cable) can be inconvenient, whether manually or automatically, especially when installing / fixing the flexible LED strip to the desired location. For example, in furniture manufacturing, if a flexible LED strip needs to be installed into a special recess, the operator must handle the entire lighting fixture, not just the flexible LED strip. In this case, the power cable may cause obstruction or interference during installation / fixing.

[0011] Generally, once the lighting fixture is installed / fixed, the power cable may protrude from the equipment (such as furniture) and cause unnecessary interference in subsequent processing steps.

[0012] Furthermore, existing connection methods typically require soldering and / or tools to connect the flexible LED strip to the power cable. However, developing a connection method that reduces the use of soldering and eliminates or minimizes the use of tools remains an ideal solution for more convenient connection between the two.

[0013] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a solution that can overcome the above-mentioned shortcomings. Utility Model Content

[0014] To address the problems existing in the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a connector assembly and its lighting device, which can be used to connect flexible LED light strips to power cables. This assembly is simple to use and has a structure that simplifies the installation / fixing process of flexible LED light strips.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this utility model is as follows:

[0016] A connector assembly for connecting a flexible LED strip to a power cable; the connector assembly includes a first connecting element and a second connecting element, which are interconnectable; wherein the first connecting element is electrically connected to a conductive wire of the power cable, and the second connecting element includes a first connector base and a second connector base, which are electrically connected via the conductive element; wherein the first connector base is configured to receive the first connecting element and is electrically connected to it via a first connecting portion of the conductive element; the second connector base is configured to receive an electrical connection end of the flexible LED strip and is electrically connected to it via a second connecting portion of the conductive element without soldering; the connector assembly further includes a snap-fit ​​fixing device configured to secure the first connecting element to the first connector base of the second connecting element by snap-fit.

[0017] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​fixing device is of the reversible type and is configured to detachably fix the first connecting element to the first connecting seat of the second connecting element.

[0018] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​fixing device includes a fixing part and an anchoring element, the fixing part and the anchoring element being configured to cooperate with each other during snap-fit ​​fixing to fix the first connecting element in the first connecting seat of the second connecting element.

[0019] Furthermore, the fixing portion is formed on the first connecting seat of the second connecting element, and the anchoring element is formed on the first connecting element.

[0020] Furthermore, the first connecting element includes a first connecting body, and the anchoring element includes a resilient locking tongue connected to the first connecting body via a flexible hinge portion to swing between a resting position and a stressed position; the resilient locking tongue includes an operating portion and a protruding anchor portion, wherein the protruding anchor portion is configured to cooperate with a fixing portion during snap-fit, and the protruding anchor portion is located between the flexible hinge portion and the operating portion of the resilient locking tongue.

[0021] Furthermore, the resilient locking tongue is configured and shaped such that when the connecting elements are connected to each other, the operating portion protrudes from the second connecting element.

[0022] Furthermore, the second connector includes a connecting housing with a slit, the connecting housing and the slit being configured to receive an electrical connection end of a flexible LED strip.

[0023] Furthermore, the connecting housing includes a support base and an opposing cover, which define a receiving space for receiving the electrical connection end of the flexible LED strip; the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

[0024] Furthermore, the cover is hinged to the connecting housing so as to move between an open position and a closed position.

[0025] Furthermore, the second connection portion of the conductive element is configured and placed in the receiving space so that when the flexible LED is placed in the receiving space and in contact with the support base, it is at least in contact with the portion of the electrical connection end, and the cover is in the closed position.

[0026] Furthermore, the second connection portion of the conductive element is configured and positioned such that it at least partially penetrates or pierces at least a portion of the electrical connection terminal when the flexible LED strip is placed in the receiving space and in contact with the support base, and the cover is in the closed position.

[0027] Furthermore, the second connection portion of the conductive element includes at least one sharp portion configured to achieve a fixed connection by penetrating or piercing at least a portion of the electrical connection terminal.

[0028] Furthermore, the connecting housing includes a snap-fit ​​device configured to hold the cover in the closed position.

[0029] This utility model also discloses a lighting device, including a flexible LED strip and a power cord, which are electrically connected together by the connector assembly described above.

[0030] Furthermore, the flexible LED strip includes an adhesive layer.

[0031] Within the framework of the aforementioned tasks, one feature of this invention is to obtain a connector assembly that makes the connection process between the flexible LED light strip and the power cable simple and intuitive.

[0032] Another feature of this invention is that it provides a connector assembly that reduces or eliminates the need for soldering when connecting flexible LED light strips to power cables.

[0033] Another feature of this invention is that it provides a connector assembly that reduces or eliminates the need for tools when connecting flexible LED light strips to power cables.

[0034] Another feature of this invention is a connector assembly whose structure allows the flexible LED strip to be installed on a specific part of a desired item (such as furniture) before being connected to a power cable.

[0035] Another feature of this invention is a connector assembly whose structure ensures a reliable connection between the flexible LED light strip and the power cable.

[0036] Another feature of this invention is that it provides a connector assembly with a simple structure.

[0037] Another feature of this invention is to obtain a connector assembly whose structure can be manufactured using readily available materials and components, and with the aid of conventional equipment, machines and tools.

[0038] Another feature of this invention is to obtain a lighting device that includes the above-described connector assembly, thereby possessing the advantages of the connector assembly.

[0039] The aforementioned tasks, objectives, and advantages, as well as other advantages that will become more apparent in the following description, are achieved by the connector assembly and lighting device as defined in the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 A first perspective view of a lighting device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown, including a connector assembly;

[0041] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 The second perspective view of the lighting equipment shown;

[0042] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 First-view view of the connector assembly shown;

[0043] Figure 4 Showing Figure 3 The second view of the connector assembly shown;

[0044] Figure 5 Showing Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the connecting element in the connector assembly shown;

[0045] Figure 6 Showing Figure 5 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting element shown;

[0046] Figure 7 Showing Figure 1 The lighting device shown is a side view during the first assembly stage;

[0047] Figure 8 Showing Figure 1 The lighting device shown is a side view during the second assembly stage;

[0048] Figure 9 Showing Figure 1 The lighting device shown is a side view during the third assembly stage;

[0049] Figure 10 Showing Figure 1The lighting device shown is a side view during the fourth assembly stage. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. The following description is merely exemplary and does not limit the scope of protection of the utility model.

[0051] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a lighting device 1000 comprising an LED flexible strip light 100, a power cable 200, and a connector assembly 10, employing a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, the connector assembly 10 is configured to receive an electrical connection end of the LED flexible strip light 100 and electrically connect it to the power cable 200 to provide power to the light-emitting diodes in the LED flexible strip light 100.

[0052] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary flexible LED strip light 100 is shown, which is a flexible LED strip light included in a lighting device 1000. However, the flexible LED strip light 100 shown in the figure and described below is not limiting and can have different configurations.

[0053] In this embodiment, the LED flexible strip light 100 has a flexible strip-shaped body 102 extending longitudinally from a first end 104 to an opposite second end (not shown and labeled in the figures). A series of light-emitting diodes (i.e., multiple LEDs) are disposed along the longitudinal extension direction of the LED flexible strip light 100, and these LEDs are preferably encapsulated in an encapsulation layer 106. The encapsulation layer 106 is made of a transparent or translucent material and essentially acts as a lens for the light radiation emitted by the light-emitting diodes, and provides protection for these light-emitting diodes (not shown and labeled in the figures). In this embodiment, the encapsulation layer 106 is substantially continuous along the longitudinal extension direction of the LED flexible strip light 100.

[0054] The light-emitting diodes in the LED flexible strip light 100 can be configured to provide the same light radiation (i.e. the same color) or different light radiation (i.e. different colors), and they are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction to provide the desired lighting effect.

[0055] The LED flexible strip light 100 and its flexible strip body 102 are preferably flat in shape and can have different lengths and widths as needed. The LED flexible strip light 100 can also be cut at different points along its longitudinal extension to obtain the desired length, as needed.

[0056] The first end portion 104, and possibly the opposite second end portion, are configured as electrical connection end portions, intended to electrically connect the LED flexible strip 100 to the connector assembly 10 via a connection cable, as described below.

[0057] In this embodiment, the LED flexible strip 100 has an electrical connection end portion 104, including a first contact point 108 and a second contact point 110, which are configured to be electrically connected to the connector assembly 10.

[0058] The first contact point 108 and the second contact point 110 are electrical contacts (e.g., metallic contacts) that are electrically connected to a plurality of light-emitting diodes in the LED flexible strip 100. In particular, the flexible strip body 102 generally employs a multilayer structure, including a flexible substrate made of a non-conductive material (i.e., an electrically insulating material) containing or attached circuitry made of a conductive material (generally copper-based), which is connected to the contacts of the LEDs and the electrical connection portion 104—the first contact point 108 and the second contact point 110.

[0059] Preferably, the LED flexible strip 100 further includes an adhesion layer 112, which is fixed to the surface of the flexible strip 102 opposite to the light-emitting diode and the encapsulation layer 106; the adhesion layer 112 is configured to allow the LED flexible strip 100 to be fixed to a desired surface, such as a part of a piece of furniture. The adhesion layer 112 can be configured in different ways, such as a double-sided adhesive film bonded to the flexible strip 102, or a layer of adhesive material distributed on the flexible strip 102.

[0060] Power cable 200 is configured to supply power to LED flexible strip 100 via connector assembly 10. Power is supplied to power cable 200 via a suitable power source, such as mains power or a transformer device providing 12 to 24 volts DC voltage. Alternatively, power cable 200 may also be powered by other power sources such as battery packs or battery banks, or by other types of power sources configured to provide 12 to 24 volts DC voltage.

[0061] Therefore, the power cable 200 can have different configurations, preferably including at least one pair of conductive wires (not shown and numbered in the figure), which are made of conductive material and are equipped with a jacket 202 made of insulating material for wrapping the conductive wires.

[0062] Reference Figures 1 to 6 The connector assembly 10 will now be described in detail. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly is configured to physically and electrically connect the LED flexible strip 100 to the power cable 200.

[0063] Specifically, the connector assembly 10 includes a first connecting element 12 and a second connecting element 14, which are formed separately from each other and configured to be physically and electrically connected to each other.

[0064] The first connecting element 12 can be connected to one end of the power cable 200 and can be electrically connected to the conductive wires of the power cable 200.

[0065] The first connecting element 12 includes a first connector 16 made of a basic electrically insulating material (such as a polymeric resin), preferably manufactured by injection molding. The first connector 16 has a first connecting hole 18 and a second connecting hole 20. These connecting holes (first connecting hole 18 and second connecting hole 20) are used to receive an electrical conductor connection portion in the second connecting element 14, which will be further explained in later sections. Specifically, each connecting hole (first connecting hole 18 and second connecting hole 20) is configured to receive the electrical conductor connection portion of the second connecting element 14 and electrically connect it to a corresponding conductor of at least one pair of conductive wires in the power cable 200. The electrical connection between the electrical conductor connection portion of the second connecting element 14 and the conductive wires in the power cable 200 is achieved by an electrical contact element (not shown), which is preferably configured to provide a sliding electrical contact.

[0066] The second connecting element 14 includes a second connector 22, which is made of a basic electrically insulating material (such as a polymeric resin), preferably manufactured by injection molding. The second connector 22 itself includes a first connector 24 and a second connector 26 (such as...). Figure 6 (More clearly shown in the diagram). These connectors (first connector 24 and second connector 26) essentially function as recesses or receiving cavities, located at opposite longitudinal ends of the second connector 22. The connectors (first connector 24 and second connector 26) are substantially open toward their respective ends, and are separated from each other by a partition portion 28 of the second connector 22 (partition portion 28 as shown in the diagram). Figure 6 (as shown in the image).

[0067] The first connector 24 and the second connector 26 are electrically connected together by electrical conductors 30, which are substantially supported by the partition portion 28 of the second connector 22 (the electrical conductors 30 are as follows). Figure 6 (More clearly shown in the diagram). The electrical conductor 30 is configured and shaped to extend from the first connector 24 to the second connector 26 and to protrude from the partition portion 28 into the cavity of each connector via the respective first connection portion 310 and second connection portion 320.

[0068] The electrical conductor 30 can be configured in various ways. In this embodiment, the electrical conductor 30 preferably includes a pair of contact elements 32, which are made of a basic electrically conductive material (e.g., copper). (The two contact elements are as follows:) Figure 5 and Figure 6 (As shown more clearly in the diagram). Each contact element 32 has an extended body defining a first electrical contact end 321 protruding within the first connector 24 to form a first connection portion 310, and an opposing second electrical contact end 322 protruding within the second connector 26 to form a second connection portion 320.

[0069] The first connector 24 is configured to receive and be electrically connected to the first connecting element 12, preferably without soldering, via the first connecting portion 310 of the electrical conductor 30. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first electrical contact end 321 of each contact element 32 can be inserted into a corresponding connection hole in the first connection hole 18 or the second connection hole 20 of the first connecting element 12 to be electrically connected to the conductive wire in the power cable 200 via electrical contact.

[0070] Meanwhile, the second connector 26 is configured to receive and electrically connect to the electrical connection end 104 of the LED flexible strip 100, preferably without soldering, through the second connection portion 320 of the electrical conductor 30. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second electrical contact end 322 of each contact element 32 is inserted into the corresponding contact point (first contact point 108 and second contact point 110) in the electrical connection end 104 through contact, and possibly through a perforation, to achieve electrical connection.

[0071] Specifically, according to the present invention, the connector assembly 10 further includes a snap-fit ​​fixing device 34 for fixing the first connecting element 12 to the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14 by snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0072] Advantageously, in this configuration, the connector assembly 10 is very easy to use, and its structure is designed to simplify the installation / fixing process of the LED flexible strip 100.

[0073] Specifically, after providing the power cable 200 and the first connecting element 12 connected thereto, the operator can easily and intuitively connect the LED flexible strip 100 to the second connecting element 14 without soldering, and then the second connecting element 14 can be connected to the first connecting element 12 in the same simple and intuitive way by using the snap fastening device 34, thereby achieving a quick connection.

[0074] In addition, the buckle fixing device 34 ensures a reliable connection between the LED flexible strip 100 and the power cable 200, essentially functioning as a buckle locking system.

[0075] Furthermore, advantageously, this structure of the connector assembly 10 allows the connection step of the power cable 200 to be arranged after the installation / fixing step of the LED flexible strip 100. In fact, with the help of this structure of the connector assembly 10, the LED flexible strip 100 can first be connected to the second connecting element 14 via the second connecting seat 26. Subsequently, the LED flexible strip 100 and the second connecting element 14 can be installed / fixed together to an item, such as furniture, using the adhesive layer 112. Finally, once one or more subsequent processing steps of the item are completed, the power cable 200 can be easily and intuitively connected between the first connecting element 12 and the second connecting element 14 via a snap-fit ​​fixing method. Therefore, in this case, the power cable 200 does not interfere with subsequent processing steps after the installation / fixing of the LED flexible strip 100.

[0076] For the same reason, the operation and installation / fixing steps of the LED flexible strip 100 become very simple, because the power cable 200 can be connected at a later time, so it will not become an operation or cause interference when the LED flexible strip 100 is installed / fixed to the desired item (such as furniture).

[0077] Furthermore, this structure of the connector assembly 10 reduces or eliminates the use of soldering or tools, thus enabling the connection of the LED flexible strip to the power cable without soldering or tools.

[0078] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​fixing device 34 is reversible and is therefore configured to detachably fix the first connecting element 12 to the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14.

[0079] Advantageously, in this configuration, the connector assembly 10 offers flexibility in use, allowing for the disconnection of the LED flexible strip 100 from the power cable 200 as needed. For example, it is easy to replace or inspect a component, such as replacing the power cable 200 associated with the power transformer.

[0080] Various configurations can be used to design the snap-fit ​​device 34 to achieve reversible fixation between the first connecting element 12 and the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14.

[0081] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​fastening device 34 includes a snap-fit ​​portion 36 and a preferably elastic anchoring element 38, more preferably made of an elastic flexible material. The snap-fit ​​portion 36 is formed on one of the first connecting element 12 and the second connecting element 14, while the anchoring element 38 is formed on the other connecting element. Specifically, the snap-fit ​​portion 36 is configured to receive the anchoring element 38 and cooperate with the anchoring element 38 when the snap-fit ​​fastening device 34 performs snap-fit ​​fastening, thereby locking the first connecting element 12 in the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14.

[0082] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​portion 36 is formed at the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14; the snap-fit ​​portion 36 may have different configurations, for example, it may be formed as part of a groove, slot or through hole, which are located at the end of the second body connecting portion 22 of the second connecting element 14.

[0083] Anchoring element 38 is preferably formed on the first connecting element 12, particularly on the first connecting body 16. Anchoring element 38 can have different configurations, preferably including a resilient tongue 40 with a protrusion 46 forming thereon as an anchoring component. Specifically, during the connection process of the snap-fit ​​device 34, when the first connecting element 12 is inserted into the first connecting seat 24, the protrusion 46 engages with the snap-fit ​​portion 36, first causing at least a portion of the anchoring element 38 to bend, deform, and compress, and then snapping into the snap-fit ​​portion 36 by restoring its original shape, elastic rebound, or expansion, thereby preventing the first connecting element 12 from being pulled out of the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14.

[0084] In this embodiment, the anchoring element 38 includes a locking resilient tongue 40 connected to the first connector 16 via a resilient flexible hinge portion 42, allowing the tongue to swing between a rest position and an applied position. The locking resilient tongue 40 includes an operating portion 44 for manual pressing by an operator, and a protruding anchoring portion 46 configured to engage with the snap-fit ​​portion 36 during a snap-fit ​​connection. Specifically, the protruding anchoring portion 46 is located at the center of the locking resilient tongue 40, i.e., between the hinge portion 42 and the operating portion 44.

[0085] Advantageously, the snap-fit ​​fixing device 34 has a simple structure and can achieve reversible fixing between the first connecting element 12 and the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14.

[0086] Preferably, the locking resilient tongue 40 is configured and shaped such that, when the connecting elements are connected, the operating portion 44 can protrude from the first connecting seat 24 and the second connecting element 14, thereby facilitating operator access. In this state, the operator can easily press the operating portion 44 to move the locking resilient tongue 40 to the application position by finger pressure, thereby releasing the engagement between the protruding anchor portion 46 and the snap-fit ​​portion 36, and thus separating the first connecting element 12 and the second connecting element 14.

[0087] Advantageously, the snap-fit ​​device 34 has a particularly convenient and intuitive way of use in this state.

[0088] Preferably, the second connector 26 includes a connecting cavity 48 that defines the space of the corresponding connector. The connecting cavity 48 is provided with a slot 50 for connecting the second connector 26 to the outside of the second connecting element 14. In particular, the connecting cavity 48 and its slot 50 are configured to receive the electrical connection end 104 of the LED flexible strip light 100.

[0089] In this embodiment, the connecting cavity 48 includes a support base 52 and an opposing cover plate 54, defining a receiving space S1 between them (the receiving space S1 is in...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 (Illustrated). The receiving space S1 forms the cavity of the second connector 26 for receiving the electrical connection terminal 104 of the LED flexible strip light 100. Specifically, the cover 54 is closable and preferably connected to the remainder of the connecting cavity 48 via a hinge 56, the hinge area being relatively thin, allowing the cover to move between an open and closed position (hinges 56 in...). Figure 4 (Used as dashed lines in the middle).

[0090] Advantageously, in this state, the connecting component 10 has a particularly convenient and intuitive structure, facilitating the connection between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the second connecting element 14.

[0091] Preferably, the second connection portion 320 of the electrical conductor 30 is configured and placed in the receiving space S1 so that it contacts the electrical connection end 104 of the LED flexible strip light 100. When the LED flexible strip light 100 is placed in the receiving space S1 and in close contact with the support base 52, the cover plate 54 is in the closed position. In particular, in this embodiment, the second electrical contact end 322 of each contact element 32 can be connected to the first contact 108 and the second contact 110 through contact, thereby realizing electrical connection.

[0092] Advantageously, in this state, the connecting component 10 has a particularly convenient and intuitive structure, which facilitates an effective electrical connection between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the second connecting element 14.

[0093] In this embodiment, the second connection portion 320 of the electrical conductor 30 is configured to at least partially penetrate, pass through, or pierce the electrical connection end 104 when the LED flexible strip light 100 is placed on the support base 52 in the receiving space S1 and the cover plate 54 is in the closed position. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second electrical contact end 322 of each contact element 32 has at least a portion of a tip 324, which is configured to contact the first contact 108 and the second contact 110 described above, and subsequently at least partially penetrate, pass through, or pierce the corresponding contact to achieve an electrical connection.

[0094] Advantageously, in this state, the connecting component 10 has a particularly convenient and intuitive structure, which facilitates a particularly effective electrical connection and secure fixation between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the second connecting element 14.

[0095] Additionally, the connecting cavity 48 may include snap-fit ​​retaining devices 58 configured to hold the cover 54 in the closed position, preferably releasable (the snap-fit ​​retaining devices 58 are in...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 (The winning bid is indicated).

[0096] Advantageously, in this state, the connecting component 10 has a particularly convenient and intuitive structure that ensures a reliable electrical connection between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the second connecting element 14.

[0097] Next, refer to Figures 7 to 10 and combined Figures 1 to 6 The operation of the connecting component 10 is now described, which is used to connect the LED flexible strip light 100 to the power line 200 to form a lighting device 1000.

[0098] First, refer to Figure 7 Prepare an LED flexible strip light 100, a connecting assembly 10, and a power cord 200, wherein the first connecting element 12 is connected to one end of the power cord 200. Specifically, the cover plate 54 of the connecting cavity 48 of the second connecting seat 26 of the second connecting element 14 is in the open position.

[0099] Subsequently, reference Figure 8 Insert the end of the electrical connection terminal 104 into the second connection seat 26 of the second connection element 14.

[0100] Then, refer to Figure 9The cover plate 54 is moved from the open position to the closed position; in this state, a physical and electrical connection is established between the electrical connection end 104 of the LED flexible strip light 100 and the second connection portion 320 of the electrical conductor 30 of the second connection element 14.

[0101] Next, refer to Figure 10 The first connecting element 12 is inserted into the first connecting seat 24 of the second connecting element 14, and the first connecting element 12 and the second connecting element 14 are fixed by the snap-fit ​​fixing device 34, thereby forming the lighting device 1000. In this state, a physical and electrical connection is established between the first connecting element 12 (i.e., the power cord 200) and the first connecting portion 310 of the electrical conductor 30 of the second connecting element 14.

[0102] In this state, the physical and electrical connection between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the power line 200 is successfully achieved with the help of the connection component 10 of this utility model.

[0103] As can be clearly seen from the above description, the connecting component 10 of this utility model overcomes the defects in the prior art and provides a simple and easy-to-use structure, which can simplify the installation and fixing process of the LED flexible strip light 100, thus achieving important technical results.

[0104] In fact, the connection component 10 makes the connection process between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the power cord 200 simple and intuitive.

[0105] In addition, the connection component 10 is configured to ensure a reliable connection between the LED flexible strip light 100 and the power cord 200.

[0106] Furthermore, the connecting component 10 makes it possible to reduce or avoid the use of soldering or tools to connect the LED flexible strip light 100 to the power cord 200.

[0107] Furthermore, the connecting component 10 has a structure that facilitates the installation of the LED flexible strip light 100 on desired items, such as furniture, before it is connected to the power cord 200.

[0108] Finally, the structure of the connecting component 10 is simple.

[0109] Of course, depending on the specific needs, the materials and equipment used to realize this utility model, as well as the shape and size of each component, can be selected according to the most suitable requirements.

[0110] This utility model is not limited to the above-described embodiments. If any modifications or variations to this utility model do not depart from the spirit and scope of this utility model, and if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims and equivalent technologies of this utility model, then this utility model also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A connector assembly for connecting a flexible LED strip (100) to a power cable (200), characterized in that: The connector assembly (10) includes a first connecting element (12) and a second connecting element (14) which can be interconnected. The first connecting element (12) is electrically connected to the conductive wire of the power cable (200), while the second connecting element (14) includes a first connecting seat (24) and a second connecting seat (26) which are electrically connected through a conductive element (30). The first connecting seat (24) is configured to receive the first connecting element (12) and is electrically connected to it through a first connecting portion (310) of the conductive element (30). The second connecting seat (26) is configured to receive the electrical connection end (104) of the flexible LED strip (100) and is electrically connected to it without soldering through a second connecting portion (320) of the conductive element (30). The connector assembly (10) also includes a snap-fit ​​fixing device (34) configured to fix the first connecting element (12) to the first connecting seat (24) of the second connecting element (14) by snap-fit.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​device (34) is reversible and is configured to detachably fix the first connecting element (12) to the first connecting seat (24) of the second connecting element (14).

3. The connector assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​device (34) includes a fixing part (36) and an anchoring element (38), which are configured to cooperate with each other when snap-fitted to fix the first connecting element (12) in the first connecting seat (24) of the second connecting element (14).

4. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: The fixing part (36) is formed on the first connecting seat (24) of the second connecting element (14), and the anchoring element (38) is formed on the first connecting element (12).

5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first connecting element (12) includes a first connecting body (16), and the anchoring element (38) includes a resilient locking tongue (40) connected to the first connecting body (16) via a flexible hinge portion (42) to swing between a rest position and a stressed position; the resilient locking tongue (40) includes an operating portion (44) and a protruding anchor portion (46), wherein the protruding anchor portion (46) is configured to cooperate with the fixing portion (36) when snapped in place, and the protruding anchor portion (46) is located between the flexible hinge portion (42) and the operating portion (44) of the resilient locking tongue (40).

6. The connector assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The resilient locking tongue (40) is configured and shaped such that when the connecting elements (12, 14) are connected to each other, the operating portion (44) protrudes from the second connecting element (14).

7. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second connector (26) includes a connector housing (48) with a slit (50) configured to receive an electrical connection end (104) of a flexible LED strip (100).

8. The connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The connecting housing (48) includes a support base (52) and an opposing cover (54) that define a receiving space (S1) for receiving the electrical connection end (104) of the flexible LED strip (100); the cover (54) is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The cover (54) is connected to the connecting housing (48) via a hinge (56) so as to move between an open position and a closed position.

10. The connector assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The second connection portion (320) of the conductive element (30) is configured and placed in the receiving space (S1) so that when the flexible LED strip (100) is placed in the receiving space (S1) and in contact with the support base (52), at least a portion of the electrical connection end (104) is in contact, and the cover (54) is in the closed position.

11. The connector assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second connection portion (320) of the conductive element (30) is configured and positioned such that it at least partially penetrates or pierces at least a portion of the electrical connection end (104) when the flexible LED strip (100) is placed in the receiving space (S1) and in contact with the support base (52), and the cover (54) is in the closed position.

12. The connector assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The second connection portion (320) of the conductive element (30) includes at least one sharp portion (324) configured to achieve a fixed connection by penetrating or piercing at least a portion of the electrical connection terminal (104).

13. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 8-12, characterized in that: The connecting housing (48) includes a snap-fit ​​device configured to hold the cover (54) in the closed position.

14. A lighting device, characterized in that: It includes a flexible LED strip (100) and a power cable (200), which are electrically connected together by a connector assembly (10) as described in any one of claims 1-13.

15. The lighting device according to claim 14, characterized in that: The flexible LED strip (100) includes a layer of adhesive (112).

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