Connection adapter for electrical devices to be mounted on the ceiling or wall

Abstract

Connection adapter (100) for an electrical device (200) to be mounted on the ceiling or wall, which is provided with a connection element (210), wherein the connection adapter (100) has a housing (110) with a circular connection section (111) and a plate-shaped surface (120) which is provided with recesses (130) for engagement of contact elements (213) of the connection element (210) of the electrical device (200), wherein the recesses (130) are designed in the shape of circular segments in order to establish a mechanically and electrically effective connection between the connection adapter (100) and the connection element (210) of the electrical device (200) by means of a rotational movement (D), characterized in that the plate-shaped surface (120) has at least three recesses (130-1, 130-2, 130-3) arranged on a circular line (K), which are asymmetrically spaced relative to each other. at least two different angles (W1;W2) are arranged offset, with the sum of all angles equaling 360°.;

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection adapter for electrical devices to be mounted on the ceiling or wall, in particular for ceiling or wall lights.

[0002] Regarding the installation of electrical devices, especially ceiling or wall lights, the connection procedure common in Europe and many other regions of the world is very cumbersome: Ceiling or wall lights typically have to be electrically connected directly to the connecting wires emerging from the ceiling or wall using terminal blocks or WAGOO connectors (WAGO is a registered trademark of Wago GmbH & Co. KG). Ceiling hooks or special brackets are provided for mechanical mounting. Disadvantages of this European connection technique include: ◯ Time-consuming installation with tools • Fault-prone electrical connections due to terminal block technology ◯ Mechanical stress on the electrical contacts due to the weight of the light fixture ◯ Incomplete or unreliable grounding connections ◯ Difficult disassembly for lamp replacement or maintenance ◯ Specialist personnel may be required

[0003] In Japan, a practical connection system has become established, consisting of a ceiling-mounted connection adapter or socket and a corresponding connection element for the ceiling light. This is disclosed in Japanese patent application JP-A-2001-35585. The connection adapter has a housing with a circular connection section and a plate-shaped surface, which is provided with two recesses for the engagement of two contact elements (for phase and neutral conductors) of the connection element. The two recesses are circular segments in shape to establish a mechanically and electrically effective connection between the connection adapter (on the ceiling) and the connection element of the light by means of a rotational movement.Thus, from JP-A-2001-35585, a connection adapter for an electrical device to be mounted on the ceiling or wall is known, which is provided with a connection element, wherein the connection adapter has a housing with a circular connection section and a plate-shaped surface, which is provided with two recesses or slots for engagement of contact elements of the connection element of the electrical device, wherein the recesses are designed in a circular segment shape in order to establish a mechanically and electrically effective connection between the connection adapter and the connection element of the electrical device by means of a rotary movement.

[0004] This system has only two connections (phase and neutral) and is therefore a single-phase system without a protective conductor. It is thus unsuitable for connections (such as those required in Europe) that must be equipped with an additional connection for earthing or protective earth. Furthermore, the known system is not designed for multi-phase connections, particularly three-phase connections. Reference is also made to Japanese patent documents JP-H07-226254 A and JP 3912013 B2.

[0005] The purpose of the invention is to eliminate the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0006] This task is solved by the items defined in the protection claims.

[0007] According to independent claim 1, a connection adapter of the type mentioned above is further developed in that its plate-shaped surface has at least three recesses or slots arranged on a circular line, which are offset from each other by at least two different angles, wherein the sum of all angles is 360°.

[0008] The varying offset angles offer the significant advantage of enabling a secure, multi-pole (minimum 3-pole) electrical connection (especially for phase, neutral, and protective earth / ground) to be established with a single, simple twisting motion, eliminating the possibility of confusing poles or connecting wires. In particular, it ensures that the phase current can never accidentally come into contact with the protective earth terminal. The design is therefore completely protected against any incorrect connection and is virtually child's play to use. This design effectively eliminates the possibility of a faulty connection.

[0009] The invention has, among other things, the following advantages: ◯ In addition to the live connections (phase L and neutral N), the protective conductor (PE) is also available, enabling a safe electrical connection with a full LNE configuration (Live, Neutral, Earth) ◯ The adapter according to the invention thus complies with the European safety regulations according to DIN VDE, which require a protective conductor connection. ◯ It also meets the protection class I requirements for metallic lighting components ◯ The asymmetrical contact arrangement or offset of the recesses provides reliable reverse polarity protection. ◯ The adapter according to the invention also offers: ▪ Effective mechanical relief: The weight of the light fixture does not rest completely on the live contacts. ▪ Easy installation and dismantling thanks to quick connectors. ▪ Greater safety and stability (even in earthquakes). ◯ The adapter according to the invention is: ▪ Compatible with existing flush-mounted boxes and standard distances. ▪ Compatible with existing electrical devices. ◯ The adapter according to the invention exhibits high compatibility and practicality: ▪ It is easy and ergonomic for the user (plug-and-twist connection), as well as safe and more flexible in use. ▪ It allows for tool-free assembly and disassembly ▪ It offers full compatibility with existing German flush-mounted boxes and standard spacing ▪ It also offers full compatibility with existing electrical devices with LNE connectors ▪ Easier, safer and more flexible handling for the user; in particular, assembly is possible without specialist personnel.

[0010] These and other advantageous embodiments of the invention result from the dependent claims: Accordingly, for a three-pole connection, the disc-shaped surface should have exactly three recesses arranged on the circumference, each designed for electrical connection to a phase conductor, a neutral conductor, and a protective conductor. A first angle greater than 120° is present twice, and a second angle less than 120° determines the offset arrangement of the three recesses. Thus, the first two angles are, for example, 130° (meaning they already cover 260° of the full circle), and the single (second) angle is then 100°. This results in an asymmetrical three-pointed star arrangement similar to the so-called PEACE symbol, which, in principle, prevents any confusion of the connections (the protective conductor connection, for example, is located 130° away on the circumference between the two live terminals (phase and neutral), which are themselves offset from each other by 100°).

[0011] Preferably, the recesses are designed as female connectors, and the connection element of the electrical device has matching male connectors, wherein the female and male connectors are designed for a plug-and-twist locking connection.

[0012] Preferably, the electrical device mounted with the connection adapter according to the invention is a light fixture, in particular a ceiling or wall light. Other devices (e.g., ceiling fans or the like) are also suitable.

[0013] It is advantageous if the housing of the connection adapter also integrates at least one of the following functional modules: Wi-Fi module; router module; Bluetooth module; NFC module; smoke detector; and / or gas detector. This creates a multi-functional connection adapter that combines numerous functions of otherwise separately installed devices (e.g., smoke detector and ceiling light) in a space-saving and synergistic manner.

[0014] Furthermore, the plate-shaped surface of the adapter or base can also feature a mechanical connection part that can bear particularly high loads (heavy lights or devices such as fans). For this purpose, the connection part is equipped, for example, with a T-shaped element for a bayonet connection, which allows the light's connection element to be easily and securely attached.

[0015] The invention also includes any electrical device equipped with a connection element according to the invention, i.e., a connection element having contact elements for engaging in the recesses of the connection adapter according to the invention. The invention also includes such a connection element per se.

[0016] The invention is described in detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which depict the following schematic representations: Fig. Figure 1 shows in an overall arrangement a ceiling light equipped with a connection element according to the invention for attachment to a connection adapter according to the invention mounted on the ceiling; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of the plate-shaped surface of the connector adapter with the arrangement of three recesses / slots;

[0017] The following will refer to both Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Referenced: The connection adapter 100 according to the invention is mounted, for example, on a ceiling (see mounting holes 132 in Fig. 2) and serves for the mechanical and electrical connection with the matching connection element 210 of an electrical device, here a ceiling light 200. The conductor L or the cable of the ceiling light 200 is attached to the connection element 210 and electrically mounted, the connection element 210 having several contact elements 213 (here three) (in Fig. Figure 1 shows only one example), namely for connecting phase, neutral, and protective conductors. The respective contact elements 213 engage in the recesses 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 of the connection adapter 100, so that a mechanical (form-fit and force-fit) fastening is created simultaneously with the establishment of an electrical connection. This is achieved by placing the connection element 210 onto the connection adapter 100 and then performing a simple rotational movement D to lock 210 into place with 100 (see Figure 1). Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).

[0018] In addition to this locking mechanism, the plate-shaped surface 120 of the adapter or base is also equipped with a mechanical connection part 131 to accommodate particularly high loads (heavy lamps or devices, such as fans), especially when the locking mechanism alone could not bear such loads. The connection part 131 is, for example, equipped with a T-shaped element for a bayonet connection, with which the connection element 210 of the lamp L can then be easily but mechanically very securely connected.

[0019] The three recesses 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 of the connection adapter 100 are arranged offset from one another in the direction of rotation (asymmetrically) in such a way that confusion of the respective connections is impossible, in particular confusion of the phase or neutral conductor with the protective conductor. This absolutely ensures that the protective conductor can never come into contact with the phase or neutral conductor. This is achieved by an angular offset arrangement of the recesses 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 according to the invention, which is exemplified in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0020] As can be seen there, there are two different angles W1 and W2, which determine the offset in the direction of rotation (= rotational movement D) as follows: The larger angle W1 determines the offset between adjacent recesses twice (here between 130-1 and 130-2, and between 130-1 and 130-3). The smaller angle W2 determines the remaining offset, i.e., between 130-1 and recesses 130-2 and 130-3. This results in a three-pole connection variant, as used in Fig. Figure 2 does not show a symmetrical star arrangement (with exactly 3 × 120°), but rather an asymmetrical arrangement, comparable to the PEACE symbol (with W1 > 120° and W2 < 120°, where the sum of all three angles again equals 360°). In the example shown, W1 = 140° and W2 = 80°.

[0021] Preferably, the connection for the protective conductor is located at the recess 130-1, which has an offset of W1 in both directions (+D and -D).

[0022] Thanks to the arrangement according to the invention, no incorrect handling can occur during assembly; the connections are always secured against confusion; a reliable mechanical and electrical connection can be established with a simple rotary movement.

[0023] The invention uses at least two offset angles of different sizes and is therefore also designed for more than three connections.

[0024] In addition to the above revelation, the following points regarding the advantages should be highlighted again below: A) Safety-related advantages of the invention: ◯ Complete VDE specifications: Safe electrical connection with three terminals - 130-1 (ground / PE), 130-2 (neutral / N), 130-3 (phase / L) • Protection class I conformity: Reliable protective conductor connection via contact 130-1 for metallic luminaire housings according to European standards ◯ Integrated LNE reverse polarity protection: Asymmetrical 80° arrangement between phase (130-3) and neutral conductor (130-2) prevents incorrect contact assignment ◯ Touch protection: internal contacts (130-1, 130.2 and 130-3) prevent unintentional contact with live parts B) Mechanical advantages of the invention: ◯ Mechanical relief: The weight of the luminaire is relieved from the current-carrying contacts by the mechanical connection part with T-shaped element / attachment 131, resulting in a combined load distribution. • Vibration resistance: Plug-and-turn locking mechanism prevents accidental release due to building vibrations ◯ 40° ergonomics: Optimized rotation for one-handed operation ◯ Tool-free disassembly: Easy bulb replacement without electrical work C) Installation and maintenance advantages: ◯ Quick installation: Easy installation and removal through a 40° plug-and-twist motion in less than 10 seconds ◯ Surface-mount compatibility: Fixing points (132) for universal ceiling mounting without drilling, chiseling or flush-mounting work ◯ Retrofit capability: Compatible with existing flush-mounted boxes or connections and German standard distances • Ease of maintenance: Lights can be removed for cleaning without tools. D) User benefits: ◯ Intuitive operation: Easier, safer and more flexible for the user than clamp technology ◯ Error prevention: Automatic correct contact assignment through asymmetrical guidance ◯ Universal compatibility: Suitable for all standard ceiling and wall lights with LNE connection ◯ In particular, assembly and disassembly are possible without specialist personnel.

[0025] In addition to the above disclosure, the following points regarding the implementation of the invention should also be highlighted below: A) Regarding the asymmetrical contact arrangement:

[0026] The plate-shaped surface has three asymmetrically arranged recesses 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3. The in Fig. The specific assignment shown in section 2 is as follows: ◯ 130-1: Earthing conductor (E / PE) - Protective conductor ◯ 130-2: Neutral conductor (N) - Neutral return conductor ◯ 130-3: Phase conductor (L) - Live conductor

[0027] The angle between recesses 130-3 (L) and 130-2 (N) is >80°, creating an asymmetrical arrangement that ensures integrated reverse polarity protection. This arrangement prevents the incorrect reversal of phase and neutral conductors as well as protective conductors.

[0028] The connection adapter (socket) 100 disclosed here has at least N=3 asymmetrically arranged recesses 130 into which corresponding N elements (pins with or without contacts) of the connection element 120 engage, with at least M=2 current-carrying contacts always being present. This ensures that even with a two-pole connection (only 2 contacts for phase and neutral conductor), the phase and neutral conductors are not reversed, which could be important in certain applications. In the case of 3 current-carrying phases (400-volt power connection for three-phase alternating current), this ensures that the sequence of the three phases is correct, which can be important when connecting three-phase machines (such as lathes or particularly powerful fans) to maintain the correct direction of rotation. B) Regarding the T-shaped attachment and the fastening system:

[0029] In the central area of ​​the plate-shaped surface 120 of the adapter or base 100 is a mechanical connection part 131, which, for example, has a T-shaped element for a bayonet connection, thus enabling the secure mounting and removal of electrical devices of all kinds. This central attachment ensures a mechanically stable connection, prevents unintentional loosening of the connection, and simultaneously acts as an additional load-bearing element for the weight of the luminaire. The mounting points (132) allow for secure surface mounting on ceilings. C1) Regarding the plug-and-turn mechanism:

[0030] The recesses 130-1, 130-2 and 130-3 are designed as female connector elements with circular segment-shaped guide grooves. The connecting element 210 of the electrical device 200 has corresponding male contact elements 213 which engage in the recesses.

[0031] The operating sequence of the plug-and-turn connection is as follows: I. Insertion phase: The contact elements 213 are inserted axially into the recesses 130-1, 130-2 and 130-3. II. Rotation phase: Through a rotational movement of approximately 40° clockwise, the contact elements slide into the locking position. III. Locking phase: The asymmetrical arrangement ensures a clear end position with complete electrical and mechanical connection. C2) Advantages of a small rotational movement (approx. 40°): ◯ Ergonomic optimization: Reduced effort and natural hand movement ◯ Quick installation: Compact rotary motion enables intuitive operation ◯ Precise end position: Small rotation angle enables exact mechanical adjustment ◯ Reduced wear: Less mechanical stress on the contact elements C3) On the technical effect of the asymmetric system:

[0032] The special arrangement with, for example, an 80° angular distance between contacts 130-3 (L) and 130-2 (N) results in several technical advantages with regard to: i) Reverse polarity protection for working contacts: • The 80° arrangement between phase (130-3) and neutral conductor (130-2) prevents the working contacts from being reversed. • The earthing conductor (130-1) is positioned separately as a protective contact and is clearly identifiable. • Mechanical prevention of dangerous LNE reversal through asymmetrical guidance • Intuitive recognition of the correct orientation for the user due to the uneven distribution ii) Mechanical stability: • The uneven force distribution prevents rotational movements under load • Self-locking effect due to asymmetrical contact arrangement • Increased stability under eccentric loads on the luminaire iii) Electrical configuration: The three recesses are electrically configured as follows: • 130-1: Earthing conductor (E / PE) for protective conductor connection and touch protection • 130-2: Neutral conductor (N) as neutral return conductor • 130-3: Phase conductor (L) for the live connection This LNE configuration ensures a complete and safe electrical connection with a protective conductor in accordance with European safety regulations and VDE. The earthing conductor 130-1 enables compliance with protection class I requirements for metallic lighting components. iv) Areas of application The electrical device 200 mounted with the connection part 100 is preferably a luminaire, in particular a ceiling or wall luminaire. However, the system is also suitable for other electrical devices that are mounted on ceilings or walls. v) Enhanced functionalities and future-proofing v1) Smart home integration: The housing 110 of the connection part 100 can optionally integrate one or more of the following functional modules to expand the system for modern building technology: ◯ WLAN module: Network connectivity for central lighting control and remote access ◯ Router module: Local mesh network functionality for building communication ◯ Bluetooth module: Short-range communication for mobile app control ◯ NFC module: Contactless configuration and user identification v2) Sensor integration: ◯ Smoke detectors for integrated fire protection ◯ Gas detector for safety monitoring ◯ Motion detector for automatic lighting control • Brightness sensors for daylight-dependent control v3) Advantages of modular expandability: ◯ Future-proof: Retrofitting with new technologies without mechanical modifications ◯ Cost optimization: Phased implementation depending on requirements ◯ Simplified installation: All functions in one central ceiling element • Ease of maintenance: Central access to all building technology components v4) Summary of technical features The solution according to the invention is characterized by the following innovative features: a. Three-contact LNE system (130-3=L, 130-2=N and 130-1=E) - Complete electrical safety with protective conductor b. Asymmetrical LN arrangement with 80° - reverse polarity protection between phase (130-3) and neutral conductor (130-2) c. 40° plug-and-turn mechanism - Optimized ergonomics and quick installation d. T-shaped central attachment (131) - Mechanical load transfer and disassembly support e. Surface mounting system (132) - Universal ceiling mounting Reference symbol list 100 connection adapters 110 cases 111 circular connection section 120 plate-shaped surfaces 130 recesses for the insertion of contact elements, here three recesses 130-1, 130-2 and 130-3 for connection to: protective conductor “E”, phase “L” and neutral conductor “N” 131 Mechanical connecting part, in particular with T-shaped element for bayonet connection closure K Circle line on which the recesses are arranged W1, W2 are angles by which the recesses are offset from each other, where: W1 > W2 and 2·W1 + W2 = 360° 200 electrical appliances, here ceiling lights 210 Connection element 213 Contact elements for connecting phase “L”, neutral conductor “N” and protective conductor or earth “E” D Rotational movement (here approximately 40°) to connect connection element 210 with connection adapter 100 QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP-A-2001-35585

[0003] JP-H07-226254 A

[0004] JP 3912013 B2

[0004]

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