Flexible Lighting Connector With Self-Closing Piercing Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting connection systems are complex to use, limit flexibility in positioning and orientation of lighting devices, and pose safety and aesthetic issues due to visible cuts in cables and inflexible cable orientations.
Innovation Solution
A flexible electric connection apparatus with a support body made of insulating material and embedded conductors, allowing connection devices to be attached at any position using piercing pins that deform back to close holes, enabling easy repositioning and secure electrical contact without tools, even when electrified.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If lighting devices are connected using rigid electrified profiles with oblong cavities, then electrical connection is achieved, but the installation becomes complex and flexibility in positioning is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid electrified profile is divided into modular segments with standardized connection interfaces. Each segment can be independently installed and connected, simplifying the overall installation process and enabling flexible positioning along the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from fixed rigid connections to dynamically adjustable connections. The lighting devices can be easily attached and detached at various positions along the profile, allowing repositioning and reconfiguration without complex installation procedures.
2Ease of operation
If cable sheaths are cut to expose conductors for connection, then electrical connection is achieved, but visible cuts remain after device removal causing aesthetic and safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
A reusable connector component serves as an intermediary between the cable sheath and lighting device. This connector can be attached to the intact sheath and allows electrical connection without cutting, enabling device relocation while maintaining the sheath's integrity and appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable sheath is designed with flexible material that allows insertion of connection components without cutting. The flexible nature enables the sheath to accommodate connectors and maintain its protective and aesthetic function throughout the device's lifecycle.
3Reliability
If adapter units are permanently attached to cables, then electrical connection is achieved, but repositioning of lighting devices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit incorporates dynamic connection mechanisms that provide reliable electrical contact while allowing easy attachment and detachment. The connection maintains stability during use but enables quick repositioning when needed, balancing reliability with flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter unit is pre-assembled with connection components that facilitate easy attachment to the cable and subsequent connection to lighting devices. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable connection while maintaining the ability to reposition devices along the cable length.
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
Facilitates easy repositioning and orientation of lighting devices without safety hazards, providing versatile lighting configurations and a clean aesthetic by allowing connection devices to be moved along the support body without visible holes or tool use.
Implementation Method 1
support body made of insulating material
Implementation Method 2
piercing pins that deform back to close holes
Implementation Method 3
piercing pins that deform back to close holes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 1b~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
Electric connection apparatus comprising a support body (12) with an oblong development and provided with at least two electrical conductors (15) associated with the support body (12) along its oblong development, and at least a connection device (14) selectively attachable to the support body (12) in any position whatsoever along the oblong development of the latter, and provided with contact terminals (18) configured to generate an electric connection with the conductors (15).