Waterproof Strip Light Connector Assembly for Weld-Free Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting manufacturing processes require manual wire welding for connecting external connectors to circuit boards, leading to low assembly efficiency and potential sealing issues in waterproofing.

Innovation Solution

A waterproof strip light design featuring a plug connector with a waterproof structure and an electrical connection assembly that allows for automatic assembly by elastic connection, eliminating the need for manual welding and enhancing sealing through glue filling cavities and integral injection molding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual wire welding is used to connect external connectors to circuit boards, then electrical connections can be established, but assembly efficiency is low and the process is complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wire welding process with an elastic connection system. The elastic connection assembly uses spring-loaded contacts that automatically engage with corresponding contacts on the circuit board when the end cap is assembled, eliminating the need for manual wire welding and enabling automated production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic connection assembly performs self-alignment and self-contact during assembly. The elastic deformation of the spring-loaded contacts allows them to automatically engage with the circuit board contacts without requiring precise manual positioning or welding operations, facilitating automated assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional connection methods are used, then electrical connections can be made, but waterproof sealing is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof sealingVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The end cap is designed with a nested structure where the elastic connection assembly is housed within the end cap body. The end cap itself is nested within the light housing, creating multiple levels of protection. This nested design allows the waterproof seal to be maintained while accommodating the complex electrical connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a waterproof adhesive as an intermediary substance that seals the interface between the end cap and the light housing. This adhesive layer maintains the waterproof barrier while allowing the elastic connection assembly to function within the end cap structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If automated production is implemented, then assembly efficiency improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidassembly precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic connection assembly utilizes dynamic elastic deformation to accommodate variations in assembly positioning. The spring-loaded contacts can deflect and adjust to slight misalignments, allowing automated assembly equipment to achieve reliable electrical connections without requiring extremely high positioning precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes in the form of elastic deformation and spring force to create a tolerance-friendly connection system. The elastic properties allow the connection to maintain electrical contact over a range of positions, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements for automated assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 automated production of waterproof strip lights with improved sealing and reduced assembly complexity, enabling efficient electrical connections without manual welding and ensuring a good waterproof effect.

Implementation Method 1

a second electrical connection member provided on said plug connector to elastically abut against the against said first electrical connection member for tight electrical connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a conductive member connecting said external member to said second electrical connection member, said conductive member passing through a channel into said plug connector and sealing the channel through a second waterproof structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive sealing: Adhesive

Implementation Method 3

a first waterproof structure between it and the inner wall of said light housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSealing: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP4033145B1A waterproof strip light that facilitates automated production
Publication Date: 2024.03.13 SELF ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4033145B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4033145B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4033145B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The present invention discloses a waterproof strip light for automated production, comprising: a strip light holder, a light housing, a light emitting circuit board and a waterproof light holder, said waterproof light holder comprising: an end cover, set on a mounting opening with a insertion hole; a plug connector, the connection structure of which is fixedly connected to the inner side of said end cover, the body of which extends into said light housing and is provided with a first waterproof structure between the inner wall of said light housing; an electrical connection assembly, comprising an external component set on said insertion hole. The electrical connection assembly, including an external connector set on said insertion hole, a second electrical connection set on said plug and said first electrical connection resiliently against said electrical connection and said external connector and said second electrical connection, said conductive member extends through said plug and sealed through the channel by the second waterproof structure; the present invention connects the second electrical connection of the electrical connection assembly and the first electrical connection on the light-emitting circuit board by elastic means. The second electrical connection of the electrical connection assembly and the first electrical connection on the light-emitting circuit board are electrically connected by elastic tightening, avoiding the need for manual welding operations and allowing automated production.