Low-Voltage Display Track Connectors for Flexible LED Relocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power and signal distribution systems for merchandise displays lack flexibility and expandability, particularly in accommodating multiple devices and easy relocation, as they become complex and cumbersome with added conductors.

Innovation Solution

A low voltage power system utilizing a track with magnetic or mechanical connectors that allows for easy connection and movement of devices like LED lighting systems, using conductive and ferrous materials with nonconductive insulation for efficient power and signal distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional power track systems incorporate many power and signal conductors, then the system can support more devices, but the connector complexity and size grow significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidconnector complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power distribution system is segmented into modular components: a power track with multiple isolated conductor runs, and individual connectors that engage with single conductors or small groups of conductors. This segmentation allows the system to support multiple devices without increasing individual connector complexity, as each connector handles only a portion of the total conductors available on the track.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The power track is designed as a universal infrastructure that can accommodate various types of devices and conductor configurations. The track provides multiple isolated conductor runs that can be selectively connected, allowing a single track design to serve multiple device types and power requirements without requiring different connector designs for each device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If outlet strip approach is used with multiple connection points, then power can be provided to many devices, but the system lacks flexibility for device relocation and addition

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectivityVSAvoiddevice relocation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a static outlet strip configuration to a dynamic power track system where devices can be moved along the track length. The modular connector design allows devices to be connected at any position along the track and relocated to different positions without requiring system reconfiguration, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system provides a scalable and flexible power distribution solution that simplifies the addition and relocation of devices, maintaining manageable complexity and ease of use, suitable for retail and other applications.

Implementation Method 1

The lighting device may be connected to the distribution track through a magnetic connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3131440B1Merchandise display
Publication Date: 2019.01.02 RTC IND INC
  • EP3131440B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3131440B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3131440B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A merchandise display system may include a low voltage power assembly may comprise a track that includes one or more conductive rods and one or more mechanical connections, wherein the track is powered from a power source; and a power connector assembly that connects to the track, wherein the one or more conductive rods connect to the power assembly providing a power connection, and further wherein the one or more mechanical connections connect to the power assembly providing a mechanical connection. The power connector assembly may be configured to provide low voltage power through the track to a low voltage power device. The power assembly may include a configuration of mechanical connections and conductive material arranged in such a way as to provide power and/or signal distribution to a mating device, such as to a set of LED modules, other lighting sources, or powered track devices for use with a merchandise display system.