DEVICE FOR CONNECTING MODULAR DECORATIVE PANELS

Abstract

This utility model relates to construction and interior products with integrated lighting functions, specifically to devices for connecting modular decorative panels with low-voltage LED backlighting and an integrated power distribution system for interior decorative lighting systems. The device for connecting modular decorative panels is characterized by comprising an electrical connector in the form of a cable segment with electrical contacts located at opposite ends, and a connector housing made of a dielectric material. The connector's electrical contacts are equipped with reverse polarity protection elements and are designed to allow detachable electrical connection to the terminal contacts of the panel's low-voltage power distribution unit.The technical result of the utility model consists in reducing the time required for assembly and reconnection of modular decorative panels while ensuring the stability of electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles. 4 clauses, 2 figs.

Description

[0001] The utility model relates to the field of construction and interior products with integrated lighting functions, namely to devices for connecting modular decorative panels with low-voltage LED backlighting and a built-in power distribution system in interior lighting decorative systems [B44C5 / 04, F21S8 / 00].

[0002] The prior art discloses an electrical connector and connecting elements for a modular structural element and / or system [EP3292595B1, publ.2025-03-05], comprising a first electrical connector element that comprises a first connecting portion with a plurality of electrical contacts electrically connected to conductors and intended for mechanical, electrical and detachable connection with a second electrical connector element of a second modular constructor, wherein the first electrical connector element further comprises a strain relief part that ensures secure fastening of the conductors to the connector element, and a number of locking and disconnecting elements adapted for detachably locking the connection with the opening of the second connector element during their mechanical and electrical connection, wherein the locking and disconnecting elements and the opening further ensure the rupture of the connection between the first and second elements upon application of one or more tension forces exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0003] The disadvantage of this analogue is that it does not provide quick and safe assembly and reconnection of modular decorative panels while maintaining stable electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles.

[0004] The closest in technical essence is a system of movable wall panels with electrical connections [US2012083147A1, published 2012-04-05], including a plurality of movable wall panels, each of which has first and second ends spaced apart from each other and opposite sides, and the panels can move between a folded position for storage and an unfolded position for use, in which the panels are substantially coaxial, each of the plurality of panels has a first electrical connector located near the first end, and a second electrical connector located near the second end, and the first and second electrical connectors of each panel are electrically connected to each other by an electrical wire passing through the panel, for conducting electricity between the first and second electrical connectors of each panel,wherein the first electrical connector of one panel is automatically connected to the second electrical connector of an adjacent panel when the panels are moved from the folded position for storage to the unfolded position for use, for automatically electrically connecting the adjacent panels, and wherein at least one of the plurality of panels also has an electrical outlet connected to the corresponding first and second electrical connectors, to provide an electrical outlet on at least one panel.

[0005] The main technological problem of the prototype is that it does not provide a convenient detachable connection of modular decorative panels with an integrated low-voltage power distributor and a lighting module, does not contain elements of protection against reverse polarity and mechanical fixation of the connector, which does not allow for reducing the time of assembly and reconnection of panels while maintaining stable electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles.

[0006] The purpose of the utility model is to eliminate the shortcomings of the prototype.

[0007] The technical result of the utility model consists in reducing the time of assembly and reconnection of modular decorative panels while ensuring the stability of electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles.

[0008] The specified technical result is achieved due to the fact that the device for coupling modular decorative panels containing a supporting base with technological grooves and a front decorative coating, as well as a low-voltage electric power distributor integrated into the body of the panel with input and output terminal connections for transmitting direct electric current with voltage and a lighting module is characterized in that it contains an electrical connector made in the form of a cable section with electrical contacts located at its opposite ends, and a connector housing made of a dielectric material, wherein the electrical contacts of the connector are provided with elements of protection against reverse polarity and are designed with the possibility of a detachable electrical connection with the terminal contacts of the low-voltage electric power distributor of the panel.

[0009] In particular, the electrical contacts of the connector are made elastic and made of wear-resistant conductive material.

[0010] In particular, the connector is equipped with detachable mechanical locking elements designed to hold the connector in the mating socket of the panel.

[0011] In particular, the connector body is equipped with guide elements and a locking element that prevents spontaneous disconnection.

[0012] In particular, the connector body is made asymmetrical in shape.

[0013] Brief description of drawings.

[0014] Fig. 1 shows a variant of a low-voltage electrical circuit for constructing a modular interior lighting decorative system.

[0015] Fig. 2 shows a variant of connecting modular decorative panels using a device.

[0016] The figures indicate: 1 - modular decorative panel with a light module, 2 - modular decorative panel without a light module, 3 - external power source, 4 - connector, 5 - reverse polarity protection element, 6 - low-voltage power supply distributor, 7 - distributor terminal connection.

[0017] Implementation of a utility model

[0018] The utility model relates to a device for coupling modular decorative panels designed to form interior lighting systems with an integrated low-voltage power supply. The panel (1) comprises a supporting base with technological grooves and a decorative front coating, as well as an integrated low-voltage power distributor (6) with input and output terminal connections (7) for transmitting 12-48 V DC, and a lighting module. The coupling device ensures both electrical connection of the panels to each other and their precise mechanical positioning.

[0019] The electrical connection between the panels is accomplished using a connector (4), which is a cable segment with electrical contacts at both ends. The contacts are enclosed in a dielectric housing whose geometry matches the design features of the panel's grooves. This housing and contact design ensures unambiguous connection orientation, eliminating the possibility of reverse polarity thanks to protective elements (5), and preventing incomplete connections or accidental short circuits.

[0020] The connector body (4) is asymmetrical in shape and equipped with guide elements that ensure unambiguous orientation during connection and eliminate the possibility of incorrect connection. The connector body (4) is also equipped with a locking element that prevents spontaneous disconnection.

[0021] To enhance the reliability of the electrical connection, the connector contacts (4) are resilient and made of wear-resistant conductive material capable of withstanding multiple connection and disconnection cycles without deteriorating their electrical characteristics. Additionally, the contacts are equipped with reverse polarity protection elements (5), preventing incorrect assembly and ensuring safe connection of the panel to the electrical circuit.

[0022] The connector (4) is mechanically secured to the mating panel receptacle using a detachable mechanism. The locking elements secure the connector in the panel's groove (1, 2), while simultaneously allowing for easy removal for reconnection or repair. The mating receptacles are formed in the panel (1, 2) by removing the technological bridges in the base material, allowing for concealed routing of the connectors within the panel joint, ensuring a neat and aesthetically pleasing system appearance.

[0023] Depending on their intended purpose, two types of connectors (4) are used: the short one is designed for direct connection of adjacent panels with the lighting module (1), while the long one is used to bypass panels without backlighting (2) or to bridge gaps in the layout. This separation allows for flexible panel arrangement in various configurations, maintaining the integrity of the electrical circuit and simplifying installation.

[0024] Using this interface device simplifies the process of assembling panels into a single system with connection to an external power source (3), allowing all electrical connections to be made before mounting the panels on the wall. This increases installation speed, reduces the risk of errors, and enables local repairs without dismantling the entire structure. Together, the device creates a safe, reliable, and scalable interface for modular lighting systems, eliminating the need for special tools and increasing the durability of electrical connections.

[0025] The utility model is used as follows.

[0026] To assemble the interior modular lighting system, panels (1, 2) are placed in the selected configuration on the wall surface or other supporting structure. Before securing the panels, electrical connections are made using connectors (4), which ensure the connection of the panels' low-voltage power distributors (6) and the transmission of 12-48 V DC through the terminal connections (7). Reverse polarity protection elements (5) ensure the correct orientation of the contacts, eliminating the possibility of incorrect connection and damage to the panel or lighting module.

[0027] Connectors (4) are inserted into the panel's supporting base grooves (1, 2) until they lock into place, allowing for concealed wiring within the panel joint. Mechanical detachable fastening elements hold the connector in place within the panel, ensuring secure contact and allowing for easy removal for reconnection or local repair. "Short" and "long" connector types are used depending on the configuration: the short connector connects backlit panels (1), while the long connector allows for bypassing non-backlit panels (2) or bridging gaps in the panel.

[0028] After electrical connection, the panels are installed sequentially on the wall and secured in their intended position. The entire assembly process follows a step-by-step "construction kit" approach, allowing for quick and safe installation without the use of special tools. Connection to the external power source (3) is made after the panels are installed or simultaneously during assembly, ensuring the system is ready for use immediately after assembly.

[0029] The use of the utility model ensures a simple, safe and reliable organization of electrical connections, allows for easy scaling of the system, replacement or repair of individual panels without dismantling the entire structure, and guarantees the stable operation of the lighting module and low-voltage power distributor throughout the entire service life.

[0030] Examples of device implementation.

[0031] Example 1. Direct connection of adjacent panels with a lighting module (Fig. 2).

[0032] In this embodiment, two modular decorative panels with a lighting module are connected in series. Each panel contains a built-in low-voltage power distributor with input and output terminal connections. The connection is made using a connector in the form of a cable segment with contacts at both ends, enclosed in a dielectric housing. The contacts are equipped with reverse polarity protection elements and are flexible for repeated disconnection and connection.

[0033] The connector is inserted into the panels' grooves and secured with detachable mechanical locking elements, ensuring secure hold and proper positioning. Electrical connections allow DC voltage from an external 12-48V power source to be transmitted through distributors to the lighting modules, ensuring their immediate activation after installation.

[0034] Example 2. Bypassing the panel without a light module (Fig. 1).

[0035] This example uses a panel without a light module solely as a cover to conceal a long connector connecting panels with light modules located at a distance from each other. The panel without a light module does not contain a light module or distributor; its structure includes only grooves for concealed connector routing.

[0036] The connector connects the terminal blocks of the panel distributors to the lighting modules, while reverse polarity protection elements ensure a safe connection. Removable locks hold the connector in the cover plate's grooves, allowing it to be removed for reconnection or configuration changes. This design ensures safe and reliable connection of panels through intermediate cover plates, maintaining the integrity of the electrical circuit and the aesthetic appearance of the system.

[0037] Example 3. Multi-level assembly of a modular composition with overlays.

[0038] In this version, backlit and non-backlit panels are combined into a complex multi-row arrangement. The panels without a light module serve as overlays through which long connectors are routed to connect the panel distributors to the light modules. These panels do not contain distributors or light modules; their structure is limited by technological grooves for concealed wiring.

[0039] The connectors are equipped with reverse-polarity protection contacts and detachable locking pins for secure retention in the panel grooves. The system is assembled in stages: first, the backlit panels are connected using long connectors, horizontal connectors through cover panels, and then the rows are connected using short vertical connectors. All electrical connections are made before installing the panels on the wall, and connection to an external power source ensures the system is fully operational. This implementation method allows for easy configuration changes, the addition or replacement of lighting modules, and local repairs without dismantling the entire system.

[0040] The technical result of the utility model consists in reducing the time of assembly and reconnection of modular decorative panels while ensuring the stability of electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles.

[0041] The specified technical result is achieved due to the fact that the device for coupling modular decorative panels containing a supporting base with technological grooves and a front decorative coating, as well as a low-voltage electric power distributor integrated into the body of the panel with input and output terminal connections for transmitting direct electric current with voltage and a lighting module is characterized in that it contains an electrical connector made in the form of a cable section with electrical contacts located at its opposite ends, and a connector housing made of a dielectric material, wherein the electrical contacts of the connector are provided with elements of protection against reverse polarity and are designed with the possibility of a detachable electrical connection with the terminal contacts of the low-voltage electric power distributor of the panel.

[0042] To substantiate the declared technical result of the utility model, a comparative analysis of existing solutions and the closest prototype was conducted, as well as a study of the functional characteristics of the new device.

[0043] Several types of tests and comparative studies were conducted to verify the declared technical result.

[0044] 1) Assembly Time Test: The average time to connect two or more panels was measured using the prototype and the stated device. Results showed a 40-50% reduction in assembly time thanks to integrated connectors with protective elements and a detachable mechanical lock.

[0045] 2) Cyclic testing of electrical contacts: Multiple panel connection and disconnection cycles were conducted (over 500 cycles). The utility model contacts maintained stable resistance and reliable connection, while the prototype showed gradual contact deterioration after 150-200 cycles.

[0046] 3) Reverse polarity protection testing: Experiments have shown that the protection elements eliminate the possibility of incorrect connection, preventing damage to the lighting modules and distributors. The prototype does not have such protection, confirming the higher level of safety of the claimed device.

[0047] 4) Ergonomic installation analysis: The use of panels without light modules as overlays for laying long connectors has significantly simplified the layout and hidden cables, which reduces assembly errors and facilitates local repairs.

[0048] This utility model reduces assembly and reconnection time for modular decorative panels thanks to prefabricated connectors, built-in protective elements, and detachable fastening. The use of elastic and wear-resistant contacts improves the electrical connection's stability during repeated connection and disconnection cycles, a feature unavailable with most similar products. Panels without light modules, used as overlays, allow for concealed routing of long connectors, simplifying installation and enhancing the aesthetics of the system. Overall, this utility model combines safety, reliability, ease of installation, and the ability to repair locally, ensuring the stated technical result.

[0049] Thus, the conducted analysis demonstrates that the utility model surpasses the prototype and known analogues in key indicators: assembly speed, contact stability, safety and installation ergonomics.

[0050] The modular decorative panel connector, comprising a supporting base with process grooves and a decorative front panel, as well as an integrated low-voltage power distributor with terminal connections and a lighting module, is equipped with an electrical connector with contacts in a dielectric housing and reverse polarity protection elements. This ensures a reliable and safe electrical connection between the panels, eliminates polarity errors, and prevents damage to the lighting modules, while simplifying the installation process and allowing for easy reconnection of the panels if necessary. This significantly reduces system assembly and reconnection time.

[0051] The connector's electrical contacts are made of elastic and wear-resistant conductive material, which improves the stability of the electrical connection during repeated connection and disconnection cycles, ensuring the durability of the contacts and maintaining reliable operation of the lighting modules throughout their entire service life, minimizing the risk of deterioration of electrical characteristics.

[0052] The detachable mechanical locking of the connector ensures its retention in the technological groove of the panel and prevents accidental loss or displacement during assembly and operation. It increases the reliability of the electrical contact, facilitates the installation and dismantling of panels, and also allows for multiple connections without the risk of damage to the structure.

[0053] The connector body's asymmetrical shape ensures unambiguous spatial orientation of the connected components during assembly. This asymmetry eliminates the possibility of incorrect connection or connector rotation, eliminating the need for additional component positioning checks. This directly reduces assembly and reconnection time for modular decorative panels.

[0054] The housing's guide elements ensure automatic centering and correct alignment of the contact parts during connection. The guide elements reduce the likelihood of misalignment and inaccurate contact insertion, thereby reducing mechanical stress on the conductive elements. This improves the stability of the electrical contact and maintains its parameters during repeated connection and disconnection cycles.

[0055] The presence of a locking element that prevents spontaneous disconnection ensures the connector remains firmly in place. This locking element prevents the connection from loosening due to vibration, operational loads, or accidental impacts. This helps maintain constant contact pressure between the conductive elements, ensuring a stable electrical contact during repeated use.

[0056] Taken together, all of the listed elements of the device ensure the achievement of the technical result: the time for assembly and reconnection of modular decorative panels is reduced while simultaneously increasing the stability of the electrical contact during multiple connection and disconnection cycles, as well as ensuring safe power distribution in the modular system without the need for external distribution boxes and additional installation operations.

Claims

1. A device for coupling modular decorative panels, characterized in that it contains an electrical connector made in the form of a cable section with electrical contacts located at its opposite ends, and a connector housing made of a dielectric material, wherein the electrical contacts of the connector are provided with elements of protection against reverse polarity and are designed with the possibility of a detachable electrical connection with the terminal contacts of the low-voltage electrical power distributor of the panel.

2. The device according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the electrical contacts of the connector are made elastic and made of wear-resistant conductive material.

3. The device according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the connector is provided with detachable mechanical fastening elements designed with the possibility of holding the connector in the mating socket of the panel.

4. The device according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the connector body is provided with guide elements and a locking element that prevents spontaneous disconnection.

5. The device according to paragraph 4, characterized in that the connector body is made asymmetrical in shape.

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