Multi-Port Connector for Independently Controllable LED Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-contact universally jointed power and/or signal connector devices lack the capability to provide flexible and independent control over multiple electrical lines for decorative lighting applications, limiting their ability to create complex lighting effects and outdoor usage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port connector with universal port units that allow for full rotation and limited swivel, enabling the connection of multiple electrical devices in parallel, with independently controllable LEDs and a weatherproof gasket for outdoor use, allowing for customizable lighting effects and patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-contact universally jointed connector devices are used, then full rotation and partial swivel between devices is enabled, but the capability to provide flexible and independent control over multiple electrical lines is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The connector device is divided into multiple independent contact elements (first contact element, second contact element, third contact element, fourth contact element) that can be independently controlled. Each contact element can be independently opened or closed to control individual electrical lines, enabling flexible control over multiple electrical lines while maintaining the universal jointed structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector device incorporates movable contact elements that can dynamically change their state between connected and disconnected positions. The first contact element can move between first and second positions, the second contact element between third and fourth positions, allowing dynamic control of electrical line connections to achieve independent control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mateable plugs and sockets providing full rotation and limited swivel are used, then electrical communication between four different electric lines is enabled, but separately controllable lighting effects are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into multiple independently controllable LED strings (first string of LEDs, second string of LEDs, third string of LEDs) corresponding to different electrical lines. Each string can be independently controlled through its dedicated contact element, enabling separately controllable lighting effects with enhanced operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mateable plug and socket connector device provides universal functionality by supporting both electrical communication and independent control of multiple lighting effects through its multi-contact structure. The same connector structure enables both power transmission and independent control signals for multiple LED strings.
3Reliability
If traditional connector devices are used for decorative lighting, then basic electrical connection is provided, but weatherproof capability for outdoor use is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A gasket is introduced as an intermediary element between the plug and socket components to provide weatherproof sealing. The gasket acts as a mediator that prevents water and environmental elements from penetrating the connector, enhancing reliability for outdoor use while adding minimal structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple port connector for multi-contact, universally jointed, power and/or signal connector devices including a housing providing a plurality of universal port units, preferably providing for the attachment of electrical and/or signal devices to the universal port units in parallel.