Linear Lighting Connector With Phase Selector Switch

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly of large light line systems for area illumination, such as those used in shops, is complex and time-consuming due to the need for separate electrical and mechanical coupling of numerous lights, which increases installation costs and time.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a male connector with a phase selector switch and U-shaped recess for form-fitting engagement with a female connector, allowing for simultaneous mechanical and electrical coupling through male and female plug contacts, which can be actuated externally without disassembly, and a latching mechanism to secure the lights in place, simplifying the connection process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate electrical and mechanical coupling is used for connecting luminaires, then reliable electrical connection and mechanical stability are achieved, but assembly time and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines electrical connection and mechanical coupling into a single integrated connector assembly. The male and female connectors simultaneously provide both electrical contact through plug contacts and mechanical locking through the same engagement action, eliminating the need for separate coupling operations and reducing assembly time while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple conductors L1, L2, L3 are connected through separate connectors, then proper power distribution is achieved, but the connection process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconductor control flexibilityVSAvoidconnection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly is designed to handle multiple conductors (L1, L2, L3) simultaneously through a single universal connection interface. The male and female connectors each contain multiple plug contacts that engage all conductors in one action, providing phase selection capability while simplifying the connection process rather than increasing complexity

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

Data Source

PatentEP3575684B1Light strip system
Publication Date: 2021.07.28 RUHL HANS GEORG
  • EP3575684B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3575684B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP3575684B1 patent drawingFigure 7~8

AI summary

The invention relates to a linear lighting system (1) with several lights (3, 4) arranged in series, wherein the lights (3, 4) can be electrically and mechanically coupled to one another, wherein for electrical coupling of two lights (3, 4) a female connector (10) is provided on one light (3, 4) and a male connector (15) is provided on the other light (3, 4), wherein to provide a mechanical and an electrical coupling by means of the two electrical connectors, the two connectors (10, 15) can be brought into engagement with one another in such a way that the two connectors (10, 15) are positively connected to one another at least in the longitudinal direction of the linear lighting system.