Light string with adjustable length

Abstract

The invention provides a light string. The light string comprises a first lead; a second lead; and a third lead, wherein the second lead is parallel to the first lead and the third lead along the full length of the second lead. The light string further comprises a plurality of light sources, each light source comprises two pins, and at least one of the two pins of the light sources is electrically connected with the second wire.

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202511668251.1 (22) Application Date 2025.11.14 (30) Priority Data 63 / 721,805 2024.11.18 US 63 / 729,481 2024.12.09 US (71) Applicant Wu Xinwei Address 14F-3, No. 32, Xingnan Street, North District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan (72) Inventor Wu Xinwei (74) Patent Agency Beijing Weihe Intellectual Property Agency Co., Ltd. 11838 Patent Attorney Wang Yuying (51) Int.Cl. F21S 4 / 20 (2016.01) F21V 23 / 00 (2015.01) F21V 23 / 06 (2006.01) F21V 21 / 00 (2006.01) F21Y 115 / 10 (2016.01) (54) Title of Invention: Light String with Adjustable Length (57) Abstract: This disclosure proposes a light string. The light string includes: a first conductor; a second conductor; and a third conductor, wherein the second conductor is parallel to the first conductor and the third conductor along its entire length. The light string further includes a plurality of light sources, each including two pins, wherein at least one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to the second conductor. Claims 2 pages, Description 11 pages, Drawings 15 pages, CN 122062213 A 2026.05.19 CN 1 22 06 22 13 A 1. A light string comprising: a first conductor; a second conductor; a third conductor; wherein the second conductor is parallel to the first conductor and the third conductor along its entire length; and a plurality of light sources, each comprising two pins, wherein at least one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to the second conductor. 2. The light string of claim 1, wherein the first conductor, the second conductor, and the third conductor are arranged side-by-side to form a ribbon conductor. 3. The light string of claim 1, wherein one of the first conductor and the third conductor is electrically connected to a power signal, and the other of the first conductor and the third conductor is electrically connected to ground. 4. The light string of claim 1, wherein the second conductor is divided into a plurality of mutually separated conductive segments. 5. The light string of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of spacers electrically insulating adjacent conductive segments. 6. The light string of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of spacers comprises a main board and an insulating plate substantially perpendicular to the main board, wherein the insulating plate extends into the gap between adjacent conductive segments and electrically insulates adjacent conductive segments from each other. 7. The light string of claim 6, wherein each of the conductive segments comprises a first via, a second via, and a third via.8. A light string of claim 7, wherein the first and second vias perpendicularly overlap the second conductor, and the third via perpendicularly overlaps one of the first and third conductors. 9. A light string of claim 7, wherein the two pins of each of the plurality of light sources are electrically connected to the first conductor, the second conductor, or the third conductor through one of the first via, the second via, and the third via. 10. A light string of claim 7, wherein the main board further includes a fourth via perpendicularly overlapping the other of the first conductor and the third conductor. 11. A light string of claim 7, wherein the first and second vias perpendicularly overlap two adjacent conductive segments. 12. A light string comprising: a first conductor; a second conductor comprising a plurality of electrically separated conductive segments; a third conductor; and a plurality of light sources, each comprising two pins, wherein one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to one of the conductive segments of the first conductor, the third conductor, or the second conductor. 12. The light string of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of partitions located between the first, second, and third conductors and the corresponding light sources. 13. The light string of claim 12, wherein each of the partitions comprises a first guide hole, a second guide hole, and an insulating plate located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole. 14. The light string of claim 13, wherein each partition further comprises a third guide hole adjacent to the insulating plate located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole. 15. The light string of claim 14, wherein a first spacing between the first guide hole and the second guide hole is substantially equal to a second spacing between the first guide hole and the third guide hole. Claims 1 / 2 page 2 CN 122062213 A 16. The light string of claim 11, wherein the first conductor and the third conductor are conductive along the entire length of the second conductor. 17. The light string of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light sources comprises at least one first type light source, a plurality of second type light sources, and at least one third type light source, wherein the two pins of each first type light source are electrically connected to the first conductor and the second conductor, the two pins of each second type light source are electrically connected to adjacent conductive segments of the second conductor, and the two pins of each third type light source are electrically connected to the second conductor and the third conductor. 18. The light string of claim 17, wherein the first conductor, the second conductor, and the third conductor are configured to form a plurality of circuits electrically connected in parallel, wherein each of the circuits comprises a subset of the plurality of light sources electrically connected in series. 19. The light string of claim 18, wherein one conductive segment of the second conductor located between two adjacent circuits is electrically suspended. 20. The light string of claim 11, further comprising a transformer electrically connected to one end of each of the first, second, and third conductors. ClaimsPage 2 / 2 3 CN 122062213 A Light String with Adjustable Length Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a light string, and more specifically, a light string with adjustable length that can be used in various ways indoors and outdoors. Background Art

[0002] Many families display decorative items in their living rooms or bedrooms, or hang them on doors, fences, or railings as decoration. Examples of such decorative items include light-emitting elements, such as light strings. Although the types and materials of light strings have evolved over the decades, there are still some aspects of light strings that need further improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A first type of light string discussed in this disclosure. The light string includes: a first conductor, a second conductor, and a third conductor, wherein the second conductor is parallel to the first conductor and the third conductor along its entire length. The light string further includes a plurality of light sources, each of which includes two pins, wherein at least one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to the second conductor.

[0004] A second type of light string discussed in this disclosure. The light string includes: a first conductor, a second conductor comprising a plurality of electrically separated conductive segments, and a third conductor. The light string further includes a plurality of light sources, each comprising two pins, wherein one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to one of the conductive segments of the first conductor, the third conductor, or the second conductor.

[0005] The various embodiments disclosed herein are best understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, in accordance with standard practice in the industry, the various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of these various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

[0006] FIG1 is a perspective view of a light string according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG2A and FIG2B are assembly and exploded views of the light source and connector of the light string according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG3A and FIG3B are perspective views of the light source according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG4A and FIG4B are perspective views of the upper shell of the connector shown in FIG2A and FIG2B according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG5A and FIG5B are perspective views of the lower shell of the connector shown in FIG2A and FIG2B according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG6A and FIG6B are perspective views of the partition of the connector shown in FIG2B according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG7A and FIG7B are perspective views of the partition of the connector shown in FIG2B according to some embodiments disclosed herein; FIG8 is an exploded view of the connector and resistor according to some embodiments disclosed herein; Specification 1 / 11 pages 4 CN 122062213 A Figure 9 is a circuit diagram of a string of lights according to some embodiments disclosed herein;Figures 10A and 10B are assembly and exploded views of the transformer for a light string according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 11A and 11B are perspective views of the upper casing of the transformer shown in Figures 10A and 10B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 12A and 12B are perspective views of the lower casing of the transformer shown in Figures 10A and 10B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 13A and 13B are perspective views of the upper clamp of the transformer shown in Figure 10B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 14A and 14B are perspective views of the spacer of the transformer shown in Figure 10B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 15A and 15B are perspective views of the fixing member of the transformer shown in Figure 10B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 16A and 16B are schematic diagrams of the arrangement of light strings in outdoor and indoor environments according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without some of these details. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are presented schematically for the purpose of simplifying the illustrations. Furthermore, the same reference numerals in different figures represent similar features, and therefore, detailed descriptions of such features are provided where they first appear in this description and are not repeated thereafter. Detailed Description

[0008] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Examples of various components and arrangements are described below to simplify this disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, as described below, forming a first feature on or over a second feature may include embodiments in which these first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features are formed between these first and second features such that the first and second features are not in direct contact. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in these various examples of the disclosure. This repetition is for simplification and clarity, without necessarily indicating the relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations described.

[0009] Furthermore, spatial relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc., may be used for ease of description to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature, as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device during use or operation, in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may also be in other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise).The spatial relative descriptive terms used herein can be interpreted accordingly.

[0010] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish different elements, components, regions, layers, or parts. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” used herein do not imply any order or sequence.

[0011] The term “connected” as used herein can be interpreted as “electrically connected” (see specification 2 / 11 page 5 CN 122062213 A connected), and the term “coupled” can be interpreted as “electrically coupled.” “Connected” and “coupled” can also be used to indicate that two or more elements cooperate or interact with each other. The terms “coupled” and “connected” as used herein can also refer to the physical or electrical connection between two or more objects. These objects may also be referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" through data or information exchange. "Coupled" or "connected" objects may, in some cases, be in direct contact or indirectly contacted through other intervening objects.

[0012] Although the numerical ranges and parameters used to illustrate the broad scope of this disclosure are approximate, the values ​​listed in the specific examples are presented as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains some error, which is necessarily caused by the deviations that are usually present in the respective test measurements. Furthermore, the terms "about," "substantially," or "truly" as used in this specification generally mean within 10%, 5%, 1%, or 0.5% of a given value or range. Alternatively, "about," "substantially," or "truly" may also mean within an acceptable standard error range when considered by those skilled in the art. Unless otherwise stated in the operating / working examples, or unless otherwise expressly specified, all numerical ranges, quantities, values, and percentages (e.g., material quantity, time duration, temperature, operating conditions, quantity ratio, etc.) disclosed in this specification shall be understood to be modified in all cases by words such as “about,” “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” or “materially.” Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters listed in this disclosure and the appended claims are approximate values ​​that may vary as required. At a minimum, each numerical parameter shall be interpreted according to the number of significant digits reported and using general rounding methods. Ranges may be expressed from one endpoint to the other, or between the two endpoints. Unless otherwise stated, all disclosed ranges include the endpoints.

[0013] Decorative string lights can be applied to a variety of indoor and outdoor environments to provide illumination, enhance safety, and provide structural support to buildings.Aesthetic Value. Figure 16A shows an exemplary outdoor or exterior application in which a house 1502 has a front door 1504, which is outlined by a string of lights 1506. In the embodiment of Figure 16A, the string of lights 1506 is arranged to outline the front door 1504, thereby creating a defined boundary and highlighting the entrance to the house 1502. This configuration helps to provide a visually distinctive and welcoming effect, especially in the evening, at festive occasions, or seasonal events. In addition to its decorative function, the string of lights 1506 can further improve visibility and sense of direction, guiding people to the front door 1504 and reducing the likelihood of missteps in low-light conditions. The string of lights 1506 can be implemented using bulbs with various characteristics, including warm white bulbs to create a cozy atmosphere or multicolored bulbs to present a celebratory effect. Therefore, the embodiment of Figure 16A demonstrates how placing the string of lights 1506 on the exterior of a building can simultaneously enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

[0014] Figure 16B shows an exemplary interior application in which a string of lights 1514 is installed on a staircase 1512. In the embodiment of Figure 16B, the string of lights 1514 is arranged in a draped manner along the railing of the staircase 1512 and spirally wrapped around the handrail of the staircase 1512. The dual arrangement of the string of lights 1514 emphasizes the architectural outline of the staircase 1512 and improves the lighting for the staircase. This configuration can provide low-brightness lighting along the walking path of the staircase 1512 to enhance safety, thereby assisting residents in walking on the stairs in reduced ambient light. In addition, the string of lights 1514 wrapped around the handrail can create continuous light to enhance the visual effect of the staircase 1512 as an architectural feature. From a decorative point of view, the combination of draped and wrapped configuration of the string of lights 1514 provides an enhanced decorative effect suitable for residential, commercial, or accommodation environments. For example, the embodiment of Figure 16B can be particularly applied during festivals or special events, or as a permanent design feature in spaces where the staircase is the design focal point. Compared to the outdoor embodiment shown in FIG16A, the embodiment in FIG16B demonstrates the adaptability of the light string 1514 to indoor structures, combining lighting functionality with aesthetic enhancement. Overall, the embodiments shown in FIG16A and FIG16B demonstrate the importance of decorative light strings in highlighting architectural boundaries, improving safety, and contributing to the overall aesthetic characteristics of outdoor and indoor environments.

[0015] FIG1 is a perspective view of a light string 100 according to some embodiments disclosed herein. The light string 100 can be applied to the scenarios shown in FIG16A and FIG16B and can correspond to light strings 1506 or 1514. According to some embodiments, the light string 100 includes a strip conductor 102, a plurality of light sources 104, a plurality of connectors 106, and a transformer 108. The transformer 108 can be coupled to one end of the strip conductor 102.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the strip conductor 102 includes a first conductor 102A, a second conductor 102B, and a third conductor 102C. Conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C are formed of a flexible material and can be bent or flexed as needed. According to some embodiments, conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C are arranged parallel to each other. Conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C are combined side-by-side to form a strip conductor, a flat conductor, a planar conductor, a strip conductor, or other similar types of conductors or parallel lines. According to some embodiments, conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C together form a flat and untwisted plane of the strip conductor 102. According to some embodiments, conductor 102B is parallel to conductors 102A and 102C along its entire length. According to some embodiments, each conductor 102A, 102B, and 102C includes a conductive core layer and an insulating layer covering the conductive core layer, wherein the conductive core layer is used to connect the light source 104 to a supply voltage or ground, and the insulating layer is used to electrically insulate the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C from each other and to protect the strip conductor 102 from external forces. According to some embodiments, the insulating layers of conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C are joined in parallel, so that the strip conductor 102 forms a strip or a nearly flat planar shape. The circuitry in the light string 100 that supplies power to the light source 104 through the arrangement of conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C will be described later with reference to FIG9.

[0017] According to some embodiments, a plurality of light sources 104 are electrically coupled to conductors 102A, 102B, or 102C. According to some embodiments, a plurality of connectors 106 are disposed between the strip conductor 102 and the corresponding light source 104, wherein the connectors 106 are used to electrically guide each light source 104 to conductors 102A, 102B and 102C.

[0018] Figures 2A and 2B are assembly and exploded views, respectively, of the light source 104 and connector 106 of a light string 100 according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 2B, the light source 104 includes a light-emitting element 1042 and a plurality of pins 1044 electrically connected to the light-emitting element 1042. According to some embodiments, the number of pins 1044 is two. According to some embodiments, the connector 106 includes an upper shell 106A, a lower shell 106B and a partition 114. The pins 1044 of the light source 104 can extend through the upper shell 106A of the connector 106 and reach the conductive core layer of conductors 102A, 102B or 102C.

[0019] Figures 3A and 3B are perspective views of a light source 104 according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, the light-emitting element 1042 of the light source 104 may be formed of a light-emitting diode (LED), a light bulb, or other suitable light-emitting device. According to some embodiments, the conductive core layer and pins 1044 of the wires 102A, 102B, or 102C are formed of a conductive material, for example...Materials such as aluminum, copper, silver, gold, tungsten, iron, tin, or other suitable conductive materials. According to some embodiments, pins 1044 are formed of a rigid material (such as metal) and configured to extend in a predetermined direction to support the light-emitting element 1042. According to some embodiments, pins 1044 are formed of a rigid material. According to some embodiments, unlike wires 102A, 102B, and 102C (which contain insulating material covering a conductive core layer), the pins 1044 of the light source 104 are exposed and not covered by an insulating layer. According to some embodiments, one end of each pin 1044 is enclosed in a base 1046 of the light source 104 and extends outward from the base 1046. Referring to Figures 2A, 3A, and 3B, the light source 104, when assembled with the connector 106, can be fixed to the upper housing 106A, and its base 1046 can be enclosed within or exposed outside the upper housing 106A. The light-emitting element 1042 can be cylindrical or other suitable shapes. The light-emitting element 1042 may be covered by a coating material (such as silicone resin, epoxy resin or other suitable coating material) and combined with the base 1046.

[0020] Figures 4A and 4B are perspective views of the upper shell 106A of the connector 106 shown in Figures 2A and 2B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Figures 5A and 5B are perspective views of the lower shell 106B of the connector 106 shown in Figures 2A and 2B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, the connector 106 is used to electrically connect the light source 104 to the wires 102A, 102B and 102C, and additionally provides physical support and protection for the connection structure.

[0021] The upper shell 106A and the lower shell 106B can be used to form the outer shell of the connector 106, enclosing the connection structure therein. Referring to Figures 2B, 4A and 4B, the upper shell 106A includes a hole 106H extending through the upper shell 106A. Hole 106H can be used to accommodate light source 104 and allow pin 1044 to pass through upper shell 106A and be electrically connected to wires 102A, 102B or 102C. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the inner side of upper shell 106A includes a plurality of grooves G1, which correspond to the circular peripheries of wires 102A, 102B and 102C respectively. Similarly, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the inner side of lower shell 106B includes a plurality of grooves G2, which correspond to the circular peripheries of wires 102A, 102B and 102C respectively.

[0022] Figures 6A and 6B are perspective views of the partition 114 of connector 106 shown in Figure 2B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 4B, the inner side of upper shell 106A further includes a recess R1 surrounding hole 106H. The recess R1 may be located at the center of the inner side of the upper shell 106A, dividing each groove G1 into two aligned and separate independent grooves. Similarly, refer to...Figure 5B shows that the inner side of the lower shell 106B further includes a recess R2 located at its center. The recess R2 divides each groove G2 into two aligned and separate independent grooves.

[0023] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, when the upper shell 106A and the lower shell 106B are aligned and engaged with each other, the recesses R1 and R2 are aligned with each other and accommodate the partition 114, so that the upper shell 106A and the lower shell 106B, together with the partition 114, can form a sealed space for the pin 1044. According to some embodiments, referring to Figure 6A, the partition 114 has a main board 114P on a first side, the main board 114P comprising a rectangle or other suitable shape. The recesses R1 and R2 are formed to have the same size and shape as the main board 114P. According to some embodiments, the partition 114 includes a plurality of grooves G3 on a second side opposite to the first side. In the examples shown in Figures 2A, 2B, and 6B, the strip conductor 102 is formed by three conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C, and the partition 114 includes three grooves G3 corresponding to conductors 102A to 102C respectively. When the upper shell 106A and the lower shell 106B are aligned and joined from both sides of the strip conductor 102, the grooves G1 and G3 on one side form a continuous groove and are aligned with the groove G2 on the other side, allowing conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C to be embedded in the grooves G1, G2, and G3. Therefore, the upper shell 106A, the lower shell 106B, and the partition 114 can form a sealed space with the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C as leads 1044. At the same time, the light source 104 and the partition 114 can be tightly fixed by the upper shell 106A, the lower shell 106B, and the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C.

[0024] Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, the main board 114P of the partition 114 has holes 118 penetrating the partition 114, such as holes 118A, 118B, and 118C. Holes 118 may also be referred to herein as vias. The partition 114 further includes an insulating plate 120 extending in a direction perpendicular to the main board 114P. When the light source 104 is connected to wires 102A, 102B, or 102C, the flat surface of the base 1046 contacts the main board 114P, and the holes 118 are used to guide pins 1044 through the main board 114P and connect to the conductive core layer of wires 102A, 102B, or 102C.

[0025] According to some embodiments, holes 118A correspond to or perpendicularly overlap one of wires 102A and 102C, and holes 118B and 118C correspond to or perpendicularly overlap wire 102B located between wires 102A and 102C. Holes 118B and 118C are located on both sides of the insulating plate 120, or the insulating plate 120 is located between holes 118B and 118C.

[0026] According to some embodiments, when a plurality of light sources 104 are electrically connected to the strip conductor 102 via one or more circuits, two pins 1044 can be electrically connected to conductors 102A, 102B and 102C through first, second and third connection modes.In the first connection mode, the two pins 1044 are electrically connected to wires 102A and 102B via holes 118A and 118B, or holes 118A and 118C, respectively. In the second connection mode, the two pins 1044 are electrically connected to two separate conductive segments (conductive segments 102S, which will be described in detail later with reference to FIG9) of wire 102B via holes 118B and 118C, respectively. In the third connection mode, the two pins 1044 are electrically connected to wires 102B and 102C via holes 118A and 118B, or holes 118A and 118C, respectively. According to some embodiments, holes 118A, 118B, and 118C are separated by approximately equal distances. For example, the spacing between holes 118A and 118B is substantially the same as the spacing between holes 118B and 118C. Therefore, under the single design of the proposed partition 114, the two pins 1044 of any light source 104 can be configured in any of the three connection modes. According to some embodiments, in the three connection modes, at least one pin 1044 of each light source 104 is electrically coupled to a wire 102B, which is the intermediate wire of the strip wire 102.

[0027] Figures 7A and 7B are perspective views of the partition 134 of the connector 106 shown in Figure 2B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. The partition 134 shown in Figures 7A and 7B is similar in many respects to the partition 114 shown in Figures 6A and 6B. For the sake of brevity, the description of its similar features will not be repeated here. Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, the main board 114P of the partition 134 includes a hole 118D. Holes 118A and 118D are configured such that one of them corresponds to or perpendicularly overlaps with conductor 102A, while the other corresponds to or perpendicularly overlaps with conductor 102C. The partition 134 shown in Figures 7A and 7B is used in essentially the same way as the partition 114 shown in Figures 6A and 6B. That is, when multiple light sources 104 are electrically connected to the strip conductor 102 via one or more circuits, two pins 1044 are electrically connected to conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C through three connection modes. However, regarding the circuitry of partition 114 used to connect the plurality of light sources 104, attention must be paid to its installation position. This is because hole 118A must correspond to the correct wire 102A or 102C depending on whether the light source 104 adopts the first or third connection mode. In contrast, partition 134 has a more directionally friendly installation capability than partition 114, as it has holes 118A and 118D corresponding to wires 102A and 102C respectively. Therefore, partition 134 can be installed in either direction, and the connection function is the same in both installation directions. Accordingly, the risk of circuit failure due to incorrect installation direction of partition 114 can be eliminated.

[0028] Referring to Figures 1, 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B, since the main board 114P of the partition 114 is substantially parallel to the plane of the strip conductor 102, the pin 1044 of the light source 104 is substantially perpendicular to the strip conductor 102, that is, perpendicular to the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C. Furthermore, referring to Figures 1, 2A, and 2B, the partition 114 guides the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C through the grooves G1, G2, and G3, and the conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C enter the connector 106 from the first side and exit the connector 106 from the second side, wherein the first and second sides are opposite each other and substantially perpendicular to the strip conductor 102.

[0029] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the connector 136 and resistor 144 according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Connector 136 includes an upper shell 106C and a lower shell 106B. The lower shell 106B shown in FIG. 8 is similar in many respects to the lower shell 106B shown in FIG. 5A and 5B; for simplicity, descriptions of these similar features are omitted here. The upper shell 106C is similar to the upper shell 106A shown in FIG. 4A and 4B, except that the upper surface of the upper shell 106C has no holes. This is because connector 136 is used to incorporate a resistor 144 (rather than a light source 104) into the circuitry of the lamp string 100. The upper shell 106C and lower shell 106B are combined to secure the resistor 144 in place and electrically connect the resistor 144 to the wire 102.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the resistor 144 is formed of a resistive element with two terminals and may contain carbon, metal, metal oxide, ceramic, or other suitable resistive materials. The resistor 144 may be incorporated into the circuitry of the lamp string 100 in place of a light source 104. When the voltage supplied by transformer 108 is higher than the rated voltage of light source 104, resistor 144 can be used to absorb the residual voltage drop on the lamp string 100, thereby ensuring that each light source 104 receives the correct operating voltage. According to some embodiments, resistor 144 is used to control the current flowing through light source 104 to prevent excessive current flow.

[0031] According to some embodiments, connector 136 further includes two couplers 142. Each coupler 142 includes a housing and a pin (or lead) connected to the housing. The housing may include three sides and a bottom edge connected to the three sides. The housings of the two couplers 142 are used to receive and electrically connect to one end of resistor 144. The pins of each coupler 142 are used to electrically connect the housing to the contact of wire 102B via partition 114. The housing and pins may be formed of conductive material, such as copper, aluminum or other suitable metal.

[0032] FIG9 is a circuit diagram of a light string 100 according to some embodiments disclosed herein.In one embodiment, transformer 108 is configured to supply power and ground to light source 104 via strip conductor 102. Among conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C, the conductive core layer of conductors 102A and 102C is continuous and uninterrupted along their entire length. Furthermore, the conductive core layer of conductor 102B (intermediate) located between conductors 102A and 102C is divided into a plurality of physically and electrically separated conductive segments 102S. When conductor 102B is straightened, its conductive segments 102S are parallel to each other. Referring to Figures 2B and 7, when partition 114 is assembled within connector 106, insulating plate 120 of partition 114 is inserted into the gap 112P between adjacent conductive segments 102S to provide physical isolation and electrical insulation between adjacent conductive segments 102S.

[0033] According to some embodiments, transformer 108 includes a first terminal (+) and a second terminal (-), configured to provide a power signal and a ground reference (e.g., 0 volts) to strip conductor specification page 6 / 11 9 CN 122062213 A 102. The power signal is provided with a predetermined voltage and current to conform to the circuit specifications of light source 104. In some embodiments, transformer 108 may be replaced by a plug (not shown) configured to draw power from mains power. The mains voltage may be about 110 volts or 220 volts, while the voltage of transformer 108 may be about 20 volts to 50 volts, for example 24 volts. The current received from mains power may be alternating current (AC), while the current provided by transformer 108 may be direct current (DC).

[0034] Referring to FIG9, a plurality of light sources 104 are divided into a plurality of subsets. All light sources 104 in each subset constitute a series circuit 110 and are connected in series. For example, an embodiment of the light string 100 shown in FIG9 includes an example series circuit 110-k having N light sources 104-1, 104-2, ..., 104-n, 104-N, where the symbols k, n, and N are positive integers. In some embodiments, the power signal of the transformer 108 is supplied to the conductor 102A, and the ground reference of the transformer 108 is supplied to the conductor 102C. In other embodiments, the power signal of the transformer 108 may be supplied to the conductor 102C, and the ground reference of the transformer 108 may be supplied to the conductor 102A.

[0035] The first light source 104-1 (hereinafter referred to as the first type light source 104) of the series circuit 110-k is electrically connected to the series circuit 110-k by connecting its two pins 1044 to a contact 112A of the conductor 102A and a contact 112D of a conductive segment 102S-1 of the conductor 102B, respectively. Contacts 112A or 112C may not be directly shown in Figure 9. However, Figure 9 illustrates the wires.Through-holes in the insulating layer of 102A or 102B expose contacts 112A, 112B, 112C, and 112D. In some embodiments where a power signal is supplied to conductor 102A, pin 1044 connected to conductor 102A is provided with a high potential, while pin 1044 of conductive segment 102S-1 connected to conductor 102B is connected to a low potential. According to some embodiments, referring to Figures 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B, one of the two pins 1044 is connected to conductor 102A through hole 118A in partition 114-1, or through holes 118A or 118D in partition 134-1, while the other pin 1044 is connected to conductive segment 102S-1 through hole 118B or 118C, indicated by the enclosed hole in partition 114-1.

[0036] Each intermediate light source 104-n (hereinafter referred to as the second type of light source 104) from light source 104-2 to light source 104-(N-1) in the series circuit 110-k is electrically connected to the series circuit 110-k by connecting its two pins 1044 to the contacts 112C and 112D of adjacent conductive segments 102S-(n-1) and 102S-n on the wire 102B, respectively. In some embodiments where a power signal is supplied to the wire 102A, the pin 1044 connected to the conductive segment 102S-(n-1) is provided with a high potential, while the pin 1044 connected to the conductive segment 102S-n is connected to a low potential. According to some embodiments, referring to Figures 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B, two pins 1044 are connected to conductive segments 102S-(n-1) and 102S-n respectively through holes 118B and 118C in partitions 114-n or 134-n, which are marked by the holes circled on partition 114-n. As shown in Figure 9, holes 118B and 118C in each partition 114-n are located on opposite sides of insulating plate 120, and correspond or perpendicularly overlap two adjacent conductive segments 102S-(n-1) and 102S-n.

[0037] The final light source 104-N of the series circuit 110-k (hereinafter referred to as the third type of light source 104) is electrically connected to the series circuit 110-k by connecting its two pins 1044 to a contact 112B of wire 102C and a contact 112C of a conductive segment 102S-(N-1) of wire 102B respectively. In some embodiments where a power signal is supplied to conductor 102A, pin 1044 connected to conductive segment 102S-(N-1) is provided with a high potential, while pin 1044 connected to conductor 102C is connected to a low potential. According to some embodiments, referring to Figures 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B, one of the two pins 1044 is connected to conductor 102C through hole 118A in partition 114-N, or through holes 118A or 118D in partition 134-N, while the other pin is connected to conductive segment 102S-(N-1) through hole 118B or 118C, indicated by the circled hole in partition 114-N.

[0038] According to some embodiments, each conductive segment 102S-1 to 102S-(N-1) includes two contacts 112C and 112D configured to receive the pin 1044 of the corresponding light source 104. Each contact 112C and 112D may form a hole through which the pin 1044 passes and is electrically connected, for example, through solder or other suitable conductive connector. Alternatively, each contact 112C and 112D may form a recess or bump suitable for receiving the corresponding pin 1044 and forming a stable connection therewith. According to some embodiments, the gap between the pin 1044 and the hole 118 may be filled with an adhesive or glue, or a soldering material.

[0039] Referring to Figures 6A, 6B and 9, the positions of one or more of the light sources 104 in the light string 100 are replaced by resistors 144 where appropriate. Resistor 144 is incorporated into the light string 100 in a manner similar to that of the second type of light source. In other words, the two pins of the two couplers 142 extend through holes 118B and 118C respectively, and reach the contacts 112C and 112D of the adjacent conductive segments 102S-(n-1) and 102S-n of the wire 102B respectively.

[0040] Based on the above configuration, the series circuit 110-k forms a closed circuit from the wire 102A to the wire 102C via the intermediate N light sources 104 and the continuous N-1 conductive segments 102S, wherein the light sources 104 and the conductive segments 102S are interconnected in series. Due to the characteristics of the series connection, failure of any conductive segment 102S, light source 104 or the connection between them will cause the entire series circuit 110-k to fail.

[0041] The light string 100 can be extended by repeating the series circuit 110 several times, wherein different series circuits 110-k share the same power signal and ground voltage supplied by the first terminal (+) and the second terminal (-) on the transformer 108. In this configuration, several series circuits 110-k are connected to the transformer 108 in parallel.

[0042] The light string 100 proposed in this disclosure can be cut to the desired length to make it of arbitrary length. The cutting point of the light string 100 should be located outside each series circuit 110-k to avoid cutting off the series circuit 110-k and causing circuit failure. According to some embodiments, each conductive segment 102S-N or 102S-O located between adjacent series circuits (e.g., between the conductive segment 102S-(N-1) of series circuit 110-k and the conductive segment 102S-1 of series circuit 110-(k+1)) remains electrically floating and ungrounded, and does not belong to any series circuit. Furthermore, the series circuit 110-(k+1) maintains its integrity even after the self-conducting segment 102S-N or 102S-0 is cut. The remaining portion of the original long light string is not completely destroyed and can be used for another new light string, without needing to...Sacrificing any circuitry or light source 104. Accordingly, the utilization efficiency of the original long light string is maximized. Therefore, conductive segments 102S-N or 102S-O can be used as the cutting area of ​​the light string 100 without affecting the operation of the original circuitry.

[0043] As described above, the original uncut light string can be formed to any length by determining the appropriate number of single series circuits and / or the number of series circuits. Once the voltage / current specifications of the transformer 108 meet the requirements of the light source 104 of the light string 100, the required length of the shortened light string 100 can be obtained. Therefore, the light string 100 proposed in this disclosure can have an adjustable length to meet various length requirements in different application scenarios. According to some embodiments, consumers can cut the original long light string manufactured according to this disclosure to purchase a customized light string 100 of the required length. The cutting position should be located between adjacent series circuits 110, in the area within the conductive segments 102S-N or 102S-O as shown in FIG9.

[0044] The proposed string of lights 100 offers several advantages. For example, because the smallest functional unit of the string of lights 100 is a single series circuit 110, the proposed string of lights 100 can be manufactured in a minimal length, containing only a few light sources 104 (e.g., eight light sources 104). Furthermore, since the number of light sources 104 can be arbitrarily increased by adding more series circuits 110 in parallel, the proposed string of lights 100 can be manufactured to be relatively long (e.g., over 1,000 feet), much longer than existing commercially available single decorative string of lights.

[0045] The proposed string of lights 100 uses a ribbon conductor 102, thus allowing for the manufacture of relatively long string of lights 100 using existing wire-making processes. In contrast, in existing decorative string of lights containing three conductors that provide connection circuitry for the light sources, the three conductors must be twisted (twisted, braided) together to form a twisted (twisted, braided) cable or conductor to provide sufficient durability and electrical performance, wherein the conductive sections of the conductors must branch to connect to the light source contacts. Therefore, in the existing configuration, the three conductors of the wound (twisted, twisted) cable are not parallel to each other. Furthermore, the length of the wound cable is quite limited (e.g., less than about 300 feet) because the torsional force applied to different sections of the twisted conductor during the twisting process is inconsistent, and this torsional force accumulates along the twist length during the twisting process. Therefore, the torsional force is greater in the initial section and gradually decreases towards the end of the conductor. When the length of the conductor to be twisted is too long (e.g., exceeding about 300 feet), the torsional force applied to the initial section is sufficient to damage or break the initial section as the process equipment continuously twists the conductor. Therefore, since the proposed light string 100 does not require any twisting step in the manufacturing process, the proposed light string 100 achieves this through a commercially feasible process step.This eliminates the disadvantages of existing twisted light strings. Furthermore, the light string 100 disclosed herein uses wires 102A to 102C connected in a side-by-side manner to increase its resistance to external forces, while also conforming to the manufacturing specifications of wires 102A to 102C. Therefore, consumers can obtain light strings of the desired length according to their preferences.

[0046] As discussed above, according to some embodiments, transformer 108 is configured to provide a first terminal (+) and a second terminal (-) configured to supply a power signal and a ground reference, respectively. In this case, wires 102A and 102C are electrically connected to the first terminal (+) and the second terminal (-), respectively, or vice versa. Direct current (DC) flows from wire 102A through a first type of light source 104 to wire 102B, and then from wire 102B to wire 102C through a third type of light source 104. According to some other embodiments, if mains electricity is supplied directly to wire 102, a rectifier may be provided between the mains plug and the light source 104. A rectifier (e.g., a bridge rectifier) ​​is used to convert alternating current to direct current before the current flows through the light source. In this case, the bridge rectifier can be configured to provide a three-terminal output, including an AC power signal, a ground signal, and a rectified DC signal. The AC power signal and the ground signal can be electrically connected to wires 102A and 102C, respectively, while the rectified DC signal can be electrically connected to wire 102B. Therefore, all the light sources 104 in the light string 100 may only include the second type of light source 104, while the first and third type of light sources 104 may be omitted. According to some embodiments, a series circuit 110-k may include a bridge rectifier at each of its two ends to ensure the proper operation of the series circuit 110-k.

[0047] Figures 10A and 10B are respectively an assembly diagram and an exploded view of the transformer 108 of the light string 100 according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Referring to Figures 10A and 10B, transformer 108 includes an upper housing 122A, a lower housing 122B, spacers 126, and a fixing member 130. According to some embodiments, transformer 108 further includes an upper clamp 128A, and the lower housing 122B includes a lower clamp 128B. According to some embodiments, transformer 108 is detachable or disassembled, allowing consumers to assemble and electrically connect customized light strings 100 to the detached transformer 108, and assemble transformer 108 after assembling the customized light strings. According to some embodiments, fixing member 130 is configured to combine upper housing 122A and lower housing 122B by combining upper clamp 128A, lower clamp 128B, spacers 126, and wires 102A, 102B, 102C. According to some embodiments, transformer 108 includes two spacers 126 to secure and hold wires 102A, 102B, and 102C.

[0048] Figures 11A and 11B are perspective views of the upper housing 122A of the transformer 108 shown in Figures 10A and 10B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. Figures 12A and 12B are perspective views of the lower housing 122B of the transformer 108 shown in Figures 10A and 10B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, the lower housing 122B may be integrated with the lower clamp 128B, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The upper housing 122A and the lower housing 122B may together define a chamber for accommodating transformer circuitry (not shown separately), such as circuit boards, coils, capacitors, inductors, and other electrical components. The upper housing 122A and the lower housing 122B may include specially designed mutual engagement (e.g., a latch-slot design on the edges of the upper housing 122A and the lower housing 122B) to form a sealed space.

[0049] Figures 13A and 13B are perspective views of the upper clamp 128A of the transformer shown in Figure 10B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, when the retainer 130 secures the upper clamp 128A and the lower clamp 128B, the upper clamp 128A cooperates with the lower clamp 128B to clamp the spacer 126 and the conductors 102A, 102B, 102C. The upper clamp 128A and the lower clamp 128B may each comprise a semi-cylindrical shape, wherein a curved section on the outer surface of the semi-cylindrical has external threads. According to some embodiments, referring to Figure 13B, the upper clamp 128A includes a groove G4 formed on the flat surface of the semi-cylindrical. Similarly, referring to Figure 12B, the lower clamp 128B includes two grooves G5 formed on the flat surface of the semi-cylindrical. In other embodiments, the number of grooves G5 may be one or more than two. Recesses G4 and G5 can be used to accommodate spacer 126 and strip conductor 102 passing through the space between upper clamp 128A and lower clamp 128B. Specification 9 / 11 pages 12 CN 122062213 A

[0050] Figures 14A and 14B are perspective views of spacer 126 of transformer 108 shown in Figure 10B according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, spacer 126 includes one or more protrusions 126P on its first side for securing and fixing conductors 102A, 102B, and 102C between upper clamp 128A and lower clamp 128B. According to some embodiments, spacer 126 further includes a lug 126E at one end. Lug 126E can be inserted into a recess in lower clamp 128B to maintain the positioning of spacer 126.

[0051] Figures 15A and 15B are perspective views of the fastener 130 of the transformer 108 shown in Figure 10B, according to some embodiments disclosed herein. According to some embodiments, the fastener 130 has a nut-like shape and includes internal threads.In other embodiments, the fastener 130 may have other shapes or configurations, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. The fastener 130 may further include a through-hole 130V extending through the fastener 130. Referring to Figures 10A and 10B, when the fastener 130 is used to assemble the upper housing 122A and lower housing 122B with the customized light string 100, the fastener 130 is screwed onto the upper clamp 128A and lower clamp 128B until the upper clamp 128A and lower clamp 128B are securely secured.

[0052] The foregoing outlines the structures of several embodiments to enable those skilled in the art to better understand various aspects of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that they can easily design or modify other operations and structures based on this disclosure to achieve the same purpose and / or achieve the same advantages of the embodiments described herein. Those skilled in the art should also understand that these equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and they can make various changes, substitutions, and modifications thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0053] Symbol Explanation 100: Lamp string 102: Strip wire 102A: First wire 102B: Second wire 102C: Third wire 104: Light source 106: Connector 106A: Upper shell 106B: Lower shell 106H: Hole 108: Transformer 110: Series circuit 114: Partition 114P: Main board 118, 118A, 118B, 118C, 118D: Hole 120: Insulating plate 122A: Upper shell 122B: Lower shell 126: Spacer 126E: Lug 126P: Protrusion 128A: Upper clamp Instruction manual 10 / 11 page 13 CN 122062213 A 128B: Lower clamp 130: Fixing member 130V: Through hole 134: Partition 1042: Light-emitting element 1044: Pin 1046: Base 1502: House 1504: Front door 1506: Light string 1512: Staircase 1514: Light string G1, G2, G3, G4, G5: Recess R1, R2: Recess Instruction manual 11 / 11 page 14 CN 122062213 A Figure 1 Figure 2A Instruction manual figure 1 / 15 page 15 CN 122062213 A Figure 2B Instruction manual figure 2 / 15 page 16 CN 122062213 A Figure 3A Figure 3B Instruction manual figure 3 / 15 page 17 CN 122062213 A Figure 4A Figure 4B Instruction manual figure 4 / 15 page 18 CN 122062213 A Figure 5A Figure 5B Instruction manual figure 5 / 15 page 19 CN122062213 A Figure 6A Figure 6B Appendix 6 / 15 Page 20 CN 122062213 A Figure 7A Figure 7B Appendix 7 / 15 Page 21 CN 122062213 A Figure 8 Appendix 8 / 15 Page 22 CN 122062213 A Figure 9 Figure 10A Appendix 9 / 15 Page 23 CN 122062213 A Figure 10B Figure 11A Appendix 10 / 15 Page 24 CN 122062213 A Figure 11B Figure 12A Figure 12B Appendix 11 / 15 Page 25 CN 122062213 A Figure 13A Figure 13B Figure 14A Appendix 12 / 15 Page 26 CN 122062213 A Figure 14B Figure 15A Appendix 13 / 15 Page 27 CN 122062213 A Figure 15B Figure 16A Description of the drawing 14 / 15 page 28 CN 122062213 A Figure 16B Description of the drawing 15 / 15 page 29 CN 122062213 A Abstract Abdominal ultrasound examination method, system and device LIGHT STRING WITH ADJUSTABLE LENGTH Abstract The present disclosure proposes a light string. The light string includes: a first conductive wire; a second conductive wire; and a third conductive wire, wherein the second conductive wire is parallel to the first conductive wire and the third conductive wire throughout an entire length of the second conductive wire. The light string further includes a plurality of light sources, each including twoleads, wherein at least one of the two leads of each of the plurality of light sources is electrically coupled to the second conductive wire.

Claims

1. A string of lights, comprising: First conductor; A second conductor; A third conductor; The second conductor is parallel to the first conductor and the third conductor along its entire length; and A plurality of light sources, each comprising two pins, wherein at least one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to the second conductor.

2. The light string of claim 1, wherein the first conductor, the second conductor, and the third conductor are joined side by side to form a strip conductor.

3. The light string of claim 1, wherein one of the first conductor and the third conductor is electrically connected to a power signal, and the other of the first conductor and the third conductor is electrically connected to ground.

4. The light string of claim 1, wherein the second conductor is divided into a plurality of separate conductive segments.

5. The string of lights as claimed in claim 4, further comprising a plurality of spacers that electrically insulate adjacent conductive segments.

6. The light string of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of partitions includes a main board and an insulating plate substantially perpendicular to the main board, wherein the insulating plate extends into the gap between adjacent conductive segments and electrically insulates adjacent conductive segments from each other.

7. The light string of claim 6, wherein each of the conductive segments includes a first via, a second via, and a third via, wherein the first via and the second via perpendicularly overlap the second conductor, and the third via perpendicularly overlaps one of the first conductor and the third conductor.

8. The light string of claim 7, wherein each of the two pins of each of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to the first wire, the second wire, or the third wire through one of the first through-hole, the second through-hole, and the third through-hole.

9. The light string of claim 7, wherein the main board further includes a fourth via that vertically overlaps the other of the first conductor and the third conductor.

10. The light string of claim 7, wherein the first guide hole and the second guide hole vertically overlap two adjacent conductive segments.

11. A string of lights, comprising: First conductor; A second conductor comprising a plurality of electrically separated conductive segments; A third conductor; and A plurality of light sources, each comprising two pins, wherein one of the two pins of the plurality of light sources is electrically connected to one of the conductive segments of the first wire, the third wire, or the second wire.

12. The light string of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of partitions located between the first, second, and third conductors and the corresponding light sources.

13. The light string of claim 12, wherein each of the partitions includes a first guide hole, a second guide hole, and an insulating plate located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole.

14. The light string of claim 13, wherein each of the partitions further includes a third guide hole adjacent to the insulating plate located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole.

15. The light string of claim 14, wherein a first spacing between the first guide hole and the second guide hole is approximately equal to a second spacing between the first guide hole and the third guide hole.

16. The light string of claim 11, wherein the first conductor and the third conductor are conductive along the entire length of the second conductor.

17. The light string of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light sources comprises at least one first type light source, a plurality of second type light sources, and at least one third type light source, wherein the two pins of each first type light source are electrically connected to the first wire and the second wire, the two pins of each second type light source are electrically connected to the adjacent conductive segments of the second wire, and the two pins of each third type light source are electrically connected to the second wire and the third wire.

18. The string of lights of claim 17, wherein the first conductor, the second conductor, and the third conductor are configured to form a plurality of circuits electrically connected in parallel, wherein each of the circuits comprises a subset of the plurality of light sources electrically connected in series.

19. The light string of claim 18, wherein one of the conductive segments of the second wire located between two adjacent circuits is electrically suspended.

20. The string of lights as claimed in claim 11, further comprising a transformer electrically connected to one end of each of the first, second and third conductors.

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