Adapter connecting element for combining original and replacement lampshades and different lighting units of decorative plastic stars

DE202025000248U1Active Publication Date: 2025-06-12DÖNNE LOY
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE202025000248
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-03
Publication Date
2025-06-12
Estimated Expiration
2035-02-28

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Abstract

Connecting element that serves as a mechanical adapter to connect original or replacement lampshades of decorative plastic stars, in particular original or replacement lampshades of the Moravian stars ⊗ , to be combined with LED units of different geometries, in particular LED units from Decotrend GmbH, comprising: a first holder designed to fix the original or replacement lampshade, a second receptacle allowing the insertion and fastening of an LED unit with a different geometry, the connecting element providing the mechanical adaptation between the fastening system of the original or replacement lampshade and the support system of the LED unit without requiring structural changes to the components.
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Description

1. Technical Field & Purpose of UseThe invention relates to a connecting element used for fixing lighting units to spare screens of decorative plastic stars, in particular for Mr. hater Star ⊗ systems and LED units from Decotrend GmbH.Purpose of UseMr. haters Sterne ⊗ are decorative lighting elements known worldwide, which are traditionally used as Bowden and solid decoration. Replacement screens make it possible to replace damaged or worn parts and to use the stars for a long term. In addition, third party screens exist that allow for many years of use.The LED units of Decotrend GmbH offer an energy-efficient and modern alternative to the conventional lighting systems of the Mr. hater Stare ⊗. They are distinguished by a different geometry and fastening, as a result of which they are not compatible either with the original stars or with spare screens without adaptation.The connecting element solves this problem by creating and enabling a stable mechanical adjustmentThe combination of substitute screens for Mr. haters Stare ⊗ with Decotrend LED units.flexible use of different systems without structural changes to the components.a sustainable solution by further use of existing components.2. Prior ArtDecorative plastic stars such as Mr. hater Sterne ⊗ and products of Decotrend GmbH, and also other mini-suspended lamp systems, use different systems for attaching screens or stars to the lighting units.Mr. haters Sterne ⊗ traditionally use a specific fastening system that is compatible only with the original components.LED units from Decotrend GmbH have their own fastening system which is distinguished by a different geometry.These differences result in that replacement screens for the Yerner hats ⊗ cannot be directly combined with the LED units of Decotrend. Existing solutions rely on tool-based modifications or special fixtures, which, however, are usually impractical, unaesthetic, or expensive.3. Object of the InventionThe invention relates to a connecting element which makes it possible to combine spare screens for decorative plastic stars or other mini-lamp screens with LED units of different geometries. Because different manufacturers use different attachment mechanisms and LED mounts, replacement screens and lighting systems are often not directly compatible.The connecting element serves to overcome this incompatibility by providing a mechanical match between the original star, master lambda screen or spare screen and a different geometry LED unit. The connector is not universal, but is adapted for specific combinations so that it connects different attachment systems of spare screens to different LED modules.Matching ProcessThe adaptation is effected by:measuring the geometries of the replacement screens and the LED holders,3D modeling of the connecting element in order to ensure precise adaptation to the respective dimensions,Production of the Precisely Fitting Connecting Element by Means of Suitable Production Methods, such as 3D Printing, Injection Molding or CNC Machining.The connecting element enables:The combination of original lamp screens and also replacement screens with LED units of different geometries.The adaptation to various fastening mechanisms without structural changes to the existing components.a stable, toolless assembly for simple installation.Efficient and flexible production, in small or large numbers, as required.4. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION4.1 Basic Principle of the InventionThe connector serves as an adapter which allows original or spare lamp screens for a particular LED unit to be used with an LED unit of a different geometry as well. It provides a mechanical interface between the mounting system of an original or spare lamp screen and the mounting system of a different LED unit.The connection element comprises the following core functions:Fixing the replacement umbrella so that it is securely held.Matching the holder to accommodate another LED unit with a different geometry.ensuring a stable and toolless connection which is reusable.4.2 Mechanical ConstructionThe connecting element has two main functions:It receives the original or spare lamp screen and securely fixes it.It enables the insertion of another LED unit with different geometry.In order to fulfil these functions, the connecting element comprises the following components:(a) Original or spare lamp screen receiving deviceThis device ensures the secure fixing of the replacement umbrella so that it is seated in a stable manner.It can use various mechanisms, depending on the screen geometry and application purpose:Clamping mechanism:Flexible retaining jaws or resilient elements adapt to different screen diameters.Latching mechanism:A click or push fit securely holds the original or spare lamp screen in position.Threaded connection:If the original or spare lamp screen requires a screw connection, the connecting element can contain a compatible thread.The design of this image is adapted to different original or spare lamp screens by exact measurements and 3D modeling.(b) Guide and Support for the Alternative LED UnitThe connecting element contains a specially designed opening or receptacle, into which the alternative LED unit can be inserted and securely fixed.This support may include the following mechanisms:Flexible guide:An opening with elastic retaining elements, which adapt to different LED shapes. Plug-in system with stop: A matching, for example, tapered, depression which securely receives the LED unit and prevents it from slipping.Fixing mechanism:A screw or click connection which prevents the LED unit from accidentally falling out.The geometry of this holder is individually adjusted so that different LED units with the replacement screen can be used.4.3 Detailed Description of the Connection ElementThe connecting element is designed as a mechanical adapter which provides a double-sided receptacle for the original or spare lamp screen on the one hand and the LED unit on the other hand.The construction comprises the following main features: (a) Geometry & StructureThe shape of the connecting element is ring-shaped, cylindrical or adapted according to the geometry of the components to be connected.Both receiving regions are matched to the respective fastening systems in a dimensionally accurate manner and enable a stable connection without mechanical change to the replacement screen or LED unit.The wall thickness and material selection are designed for the load by the weight of the screen and the LED unit.(b) Fixing of original or spare lamp screen & LED unitFirst receptacle: Contains a clamping, latching, screwing or plugging mechanism in order to hold the replacement umbrella securely.Second receptacle: Enables the insertion and secure fastening of the LED unit with a different geometry. The fixing can be effected by means of a precisely fitting guide, elastic retaining elements or a form-fitting locking.(c) Material & FabricationThe connecting element can be made of plastic (e.g. PLA, ABS, PETG), metal (e.g. aluminum, stainless steel) or hybrid materials.Production methods are:3D print (FDM, SLA, SLS) for small series and fast prototypes. Injection molding for economical series production.CNC milling or laser cutting if metal components are required.5. Application of the InventionThe invention serves to overcome the incompatibility between alternate screens for the Decotrd Herr hat ⊗ and the LED units.Field of use of the Yerner hats Stare⊗:Mr. haters Sterne ⊗ are traditionally used as high quality Bowden and solid decoration. Replacement screens from various manufacturers make it possible to replace damaged or worn screens. Often the stars are also replaced with alternative lampshade to make use of these all the year.Field of Use of the Decotend LED Units:Decotrating LED units are distinguished by high energy efficiency and long-lived illumination. They offer a modern alternative to the original lighting systems of the Mr. haters Sterne ⊗.Use of the connecting element:The connecting element enables: The combination of spare screens for Mr. haters Stare ⊗ with Decotrend LED units. Flexible use of different systems without making structural changes to the screen or LED unit. A lasting solution, since existing components can be used further and combined as desired.EXPLANATION OF DRAWINGS1. FIG. / sheet: Example of the socket of the shuttle star 1 Cross-sectional normal use 2 LED unit / socket of the shuttle star 3 Exemplary replacement screen for a socket of the shuttle star 4 Only the socket / LED unit fits onto the replacement screen 5 Cross-sectional normal use (inserted)2. FIG. / sheet: Example Holder of the Sternal Plastic Stars (Decotrend GmbH) 6 LED unit / holder of the Sternal Plastic Stars (Decotrend GmbH) 7 holder / LED unit Example Decotrend GmbH does not fit for the replacement screen of the Mr. hater Stars 8 replacement screen would simply fall down the LED unit (Decotrend.9 Solution: Adapter which combines the two holders 10 adapters, adjustable for different geometriesEXPLANATION OF DRAWINGS3. FIG. / leaf: example of the holder of the Mr. hater star 11 example: holder of the Sterntaler Kunststoff star (Decotrend GmbH) 12 adapter sits on the replacement screen on 13 Other holder / LED unit can be inserted thanks to the adapter

Claims

A connector acting as a mechanical adapter for combining original or spare lamp screens of decorative plastic stars, in particular original or spare lamp screens of the Mruter Stars ⊗, with LED units of different geometries, in particular LED units of Decotrend GmbH, comprising: a first seat adapted to fix the original or spare lamp screen, a second seat adapted to insert and fix an LED unit of different geometry, wherein the connector provides the mechanical adaptation between the fixing system of the original or spare lamp screen and the fixing system of the LED unit without requiring structural changes to the components.The connector of claim 1, wherein the first receptacle comprises a clamping mechanism, latching mechanism, rotating mechanism or plug mechanism to securely fix the original or spare lamp screen.The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second receptacle comprises elastic holding members, a plug guide, a rotating mechanism or a clicking mechanism to securely fix the LED unit.Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing is designed specifically for the original or spare lamp screens of the Mr. hater Sterne ⊗ and the second housing is designed for LED units of the Decotrend GmbH.Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the connector additionally comprises an integrated cable duct to allow the ordered routing of the power cable of the LED unit.Connector according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the geometry of the connector is made variable so that it can be adapted to different screen and LED fastening systems.Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, which is manufactured from plastic, metal or a combination of these materials and is produced by injection molding, 3D printing or CNC machining.