C-Shaped Snap-Connector for Linear Lighting with IP6X Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear lighting systems with IP protection face challenges in providing connectors that can be easily connected at intermediate positions along the device, resulting in large external dimensions, visual impact, and installation difficulties due to cumbersome connectors and cable arrangements, which are often limited to two-contact configurations suitable only for monochromatic LED lighting.
Innovation Solution
A C-shaped connector system with snap-engagement formations and conductive elements molded within the plastic body, allowing for IP6X protection and reduced dimensions, enabling connection at various positions along the linear lighting device with multiple contacts suitable for RGB and RGBW lighting systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing connector solutions are used for linear lighting devices with IP protection, then electrical connection can be established, but the connector has large external dimensions causing strong visual impact and requiring dedicated installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is designed as a C-shaped structure that can be nested underneath the linear lighting device, with the connector body positioned in the space between the lighting device and the mounting surface. This nesting approach allows the connector to occupy minimal installation space while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the protruding connecting pins that penetrate the insulating coating.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a traditional planar configuration to a three-dimensional C-shaped structure that wraps around the lighting device. The connector parts are positioned on opposite sides of the lighting device and connected through the C-shaped body, utilizing vertical and lateral dimensions to reduce the horizontal footprint area while maintaining connection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are placed at intermediate positions along the linear lighting device, then connection flexibility is improved, but the connector structure becomes more complex and dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The C-shaped connector design provides universal applicability across different connection positions (ends and intermediate positions) of the linear lighting device. The same connector structure can be installed anywhere along the device length by simply positioning it on the appropriate section, eliminating the need for different connector types or complex mounting mechanisms while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cables are arranged on the lower surface to enable intermediate connections, then connection versatility is improved, but the overall dimensions increase and installation is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management function is extracted and integrated into the C-shaped connector body itself. The connector body serves as the cable housing, with cables routed through the C-shaped structure rather than being arranged separately on the lower surface. This extraction of the cable management function into the main connector structure reduces overall dimensions and simplifies installation while maintaining intermediate connection capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector for linear lighting devices, comprising: - a first and a second C-shaped connector part (14, 16), which can be snap-engaged with each other, - at least one connecting pin (28) protruding from an inner surface of one of said connector parts (14), - at least one conductive element (30) contained within the thickness (T) of said connector part (14) and electrically connecting said at least one connecting pin (28) to a connection point (32, 38) with a power supply cable (36).