Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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CONNECTORS FOR LED STRIP LIGHTING
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date
of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/333,806, filed on May 12, 2010; and
this application
is a Continuation-in-Part of U-S- Application No, 12/975,112, filed on
December 2.1, 2010, which
claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Application No.
61/288.815, filed on
December 21, 2009, which CIP is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Application No.
12/499,306,
filed on July 8, 2009, which claims priority to and the benefit of the filing
date of
U.S. Application No. 61/079,042, filed on July 8, 2008, the disclosures of
each of which are
hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the invention
[0002] The present invention relates to connectors for lighting strips, and
more
particularly for modular lighting systems, which provide for physical and
electrical
interconnection of multiple lighting strip devices to form lighting systems.
Description of Related Art
[0003] Lighting strips and illumination systems such as signs, displays, and
other
lighting systems have been used for many years- Such signs and displays
typically have
extended life spans, can be formed to a variety of different shapes and are
operative at a
relatively low cost. Although lighting systems have been somewhat successful,
the known
lighting systems have encountered certain problems. One known problem is the
excessive
number of components required to make such lighting systems- Another problem
relates to
the fragile nature of such lighting systems- Often lighting systems must be
individually crafted
which increases the purchasing price associated with such lighting systems-
Another problem
with known lighting systems relates to the lack of convenient interconnectable
components of
individual lighting sections and the lack of easily removable and securely fit
interconnections.
[0004] Thus, there remains a need for an improved lighting system and improved
connectors which are capable of being interconnected with a variety of
lighting strips having a
variety of shapes and configurations- In particular, there remains a need for
an improved
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lighting system having light strip sections easily assembled and securely fit
interconnections
that can be easily removed and interchanged with a number of light strip
sections having
varying overall shapes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[00051 Embodiments of the present invention provide connectors for flexible or
rigid
strip lighting devices that can be combined and conveniently interconnected
with the strip
lighting to form modular lighting systems- The connectors can be used with
waterproof, water-
resistant, or non-waterproof lighting strips.
100061 Connectors of the invention include junctions (plugs and/or sockets)
for joining
together, electrically and mechanically, one or more lighting strips into a
lighting strip system.
The connectors can be operably configured to provide 1-way, 2-way, 3-way, 4-
way, 5-way,
6-way, 7-way, $-way (and so on) connection of the lighting strips- A "double"
connector, for
example, can be operably configured to provide for electrical and physical
connection at two
junctions, which can be both plug- or socket-type, or one each of a plug-type
and a socket-type
junction. Another embodiment can comprise a "cross" type connector, which can
provide a
4-way intersection of lighting strips. A Y-type connector can provide a 3-way
intersection of
lighting strips, and so on. The shape of the connector is not critical to the
functionality that the
connector is capable of providing. For example, a Y-type connector can be Y-
shaped and only
provide for a Z-way connection, if desired.
[00071 Connectors of the invention can comprise two identical sockets joined
together
at their electrical contacts to form a double connector. In this manner, the
same components
that are used for the lighting strip sockets can also be used for the
connectors thus achieving
simplicity in manufacturing, as no special socket components are required. For
3-way and
4-way type sockets, three or four, respectively, identical sockets can be
incorporated with a PCB
and circuit to for the complex connector. Again, by using standard socket
components, a
manufacturer can easily make the connectors from existing parts instead of
creating another
part that cannot be used with other components, such as the lighting strips or
connections with
a power source through wire leads.
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(0008) The connectors can comprise any number of plugs and/or sockets,
depending
mostly on the requirements of a particular desired application for which the
connectors are to
be used. One embodiment includes a cross-type connector (X-type), operably
configured to
allow for power to flow through the electrical circuit of the lighting system
by having one input
and three outputs (i.e., 4-way). Using such a connector, the current traveling
through a single
lighting strip can enter the connector at one junction and exit the connector
at three junctions
into three separate lighting strips. Likewise, a 4-way connector can be
configured to allow for
the flow of current through the connector in a manner which provides two
inputs and two
outputs through the connector. The number of sockets and/or plugs and/or
junctions is not
critical, nor is it critical in which direction (in or out) the current flows
through the connector
within any particular lighting system and all such combinations are possible.
(0009) In preferred embodiments, the configuration, including she, shape, and
electrical pathway, of the plug of the lighting strips are the same as the
plug of the connector
and the socket of the lighting strips are the same as the socket of the
connector- The connector
can be a segment of lighting strip with no LEDs and which is typically shorter
In length. The
connectors share features of the lighting strips in that the connectors
comprise a non-
conductive substrate, an electrical pathway (circuit), and plugs and/or
sockets for completing
the circuit between two or more lighting strips.
[0010) Included in embodiments of the invention are modular lighting systems
with
1) one or more lighting strips comprising: a non-conductive substrate strip
comprising an
electrical circuit; a plurality of light sources operably connected to the
electrical circuit; a plug
or socket integrally formed at opposing ends of the substrate strip; and 2)
one or more
connectors having one or more plugs or sockets, each operably configured to
provide for
physical and electrical connection with one or more of the lighting strips.
The non-conductive
substrates are preferably elongated strips that can be cut to any desired
length and the light
sources on the strip remain operable after cutting.
[0011) Preferred embodiments include configurations wherein the plugs and
sockets of
the lighting strips and connectors provide for removable, friction-fit,
latchless, and electrical
interconnection of two or more circuits. The connectors can also be joined in
a non-removable
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mariner, ie, with adhesive or other mechanical connection that might render
the connector or
lighting strip unusable one detached from the system, but modular or reusable
strips and
connectors and most preferred. Other means for securing the lighting strips
and connectors
together in a lighting system can include overlaying the electrical contacts
of the components
to be joined and securing them to ensure an electrical connection between the
two. Latches
can also be used, but are less preferred-
10012] Embodiments of the invention can comprise a latch-type securing
mechanism,
preferably releasable, for securing the connection between lighting strips and
connectors when
installed but also allowing for convenient disengagement of the components for
repairs.
(0013] The modular lighting strips of embodiments of the invention preferably
comprise
LED-type lighting strips described in Virginia Optoelectronics, Ines US
Published Patent
Application No. 2010/008090, entitled "Modular LEO Lighting Systems and
flexible or Rigid Strip
Lighting Devices," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety.
(00141 The plug and socket components of the lighting systems can be oriented
lengthwise in relation to the substrate strip and can have complementary
shapes to provide for
interconnection of a substrate strip with a connector. Embodiments also
include plugs and plug
holes that provide for co-planar, parallel, or perpendicular interconnection
of the substrates,
including any plug and plug hole orientation relative to the substrate-
Further, for example, the
lighting strips can be co-planar and be oriented in any direction relative to
one another and/or
relative to the connectors- In one embodiment, a lighting strip can be
connected with a 4-way
connector to continue the circuit of the lighting strip in three separate
lighting strips, each of
the three oriented in different directions, or each of the three in the same
direction parallel to
one another. Again, the shape and orientation of the junctions of the
connector is typically
dictated by a particular lighting system configuration that is desired. For
example, if the
connector provides for electrical contact from a single lighting strip or
electrical source to three
lighting strips arranged parallel to one another, the connector could be
configured in the shape
of a fork, where the input into the connector is represented by the fork
handle and the three
outputs are represented by the tines.
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[0015] Also provided are connector assemblies for printed circuit boards
(PCBs)
comprising: a plug integrally formed at one end of a PCB; and a socket
integrally formed at an
opposing end of the PCB; wherein the plug and plug hole of the socket are
oriented lengthwise
in relation to the substrate strip and have complementary shapes to provide
for removable.
friction-fit, and latchless electrical interconnection of two or more
substrates. Embodiments
also include connector assemblies with plugs and plug holes that provide for
co-planar, parallel,
or perpendicular interconnection of the substrates, including any plug and
plug hole orientation
relative to the substrate. The connectors, whether integral with or not
integral with the
substrate, are typically of the male and corresponding or complementary female
type, but can
be of any known type of connector. it is especially preferred to have one
female-type
connector for one end of the lighting strip and a corresponding or
complementary male-type
connector for the opposing lengthwise end of the substrate.
[0016] More specifically, the connector assemblies can be configured to
comprise a plug
formed by electrical contacts mounted to an end of the PCB and operably
connected to the
PCB; and a socket mounted to an opposing end of the PCB which comprises a
complementary
plug hole with internal electrical contacts operably connected to the PCB. The
connector can
also comprise two plugs or two sockets in such an assembly.
[0017] Means for operably connecting a modular lighting strip to an electrical
power
supply can be provided by the plug or socket of the lighting strip, wire leads
irremovably and
operably connected to the lighting strip, or a non-conductive substrate strip
comprising an
electrical circuit and no light sources which is capable of operably
connecting to a lighting strip
by way of an integrally formed plug or socket. DC jack adapters can be used,
and in the case of
multi-color light displays for example the red, green, blue LED lighting
strips can comprise an
RGU-controller for controlling the timing, duration, and changes in color of
the display-
[0018] The modular lighting systems can be constructed so that the first PCB
is capable of being
connected to a power supply by way of a plug, socket, or wire leads
irremovably and operably
connected to the first PCB.
[00191 The features of novelty and various other advantages that characterize
the
invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims forming a part
hereof. However, for a
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better understanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects
obtained by its use,
reference should be made to the drawings that form a further part hereof, and
to the
accompanying descriptive matter, in that there is illustrated and described a
preferred
embodiment of the invention- The features and advantages of the present
invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art. While numerous changes may be made by
those skilled in
the art, such changes are within the spirit of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] These drawings illustrate certain aspects of some of the embodiments of
the
present invention, and should not be used to limit or define the invention.
(0027.] FIG.1 is a photo illustrating a "cross" type, 4-way connector of the
invention.
[0022] FIG- 2 is a photo illustrating a "double" type, 2-way connector for use
in single
color lighting systems of the invention.
[0023] FIG- 3 is a photo illustrating a "double" type, 2-way connector for use
in RG6 color
lighting systems of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a photo illustrating a component used to join a single color
lighting
system to a power source.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a photo illustrating a component used to join a RGB lighting
system to a
power source-
(0026] FIGS. 6A-C are schematic diagrams depicting various views of an
exemplary
socket-type junction which can be used in the connectors of the invention-
[0027[ FIGS. 7A-B are schematic diagrams depicting, respectively, a side
elevation view
and a top plan view of an exemplary plug-type junction, which can be used in
the connectors of
the invention.
(0028] FIGS. BA-D and are schematic diagrams that depict various views of an
exemplary
socket-type end and complementary plug-type end of a multi-color flex strip,
which can be used
in the connectors of the invention.
[0029) FIGS. 9A-B are schematic diagrams depicting, respectively, a side
elevation view
and a top plan view of an exemplary plug-type end of a multi-color flex strip,
which can be used
as the plug portion of a connector.
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(00301 FIGS. 10A-E are photos of various types of waterproof connectors and
lighting
strips that can be used according to the invention.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a photo of a connector of the invention operably connected
with wire
leads for transmitting electrical energy from a power source to, in, and
through the connector
assembly to a lighting strip with single-color LEDs.
(0032] FIG_ 12 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
4-way, cross-type connector comprising a rigid PCB supporting an electrical
circuit which is in
operable communication with four socket type junctions for interconnecting,
both mechanically
and electrically, up to four RGB type lighting strips to obtain a lighting
system having light
sources radiating away from the connector in four directions.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
4-way, cross-type connector comprising a rigid PCB supporting an electrical
circuit which is in
operable communication with four socket type junctions for interconnecting,
both mechanically
and electrically, up to four single-color type lighting strips to obtain a
lighting system having
light sources radiating away from the connector in four directions.
[0034] FIG. 14 is a photo of a connector of the invention operably connected
with wire
leads for transmitting electrical energy from a power source to, in, and
through the connector
assembly to an RGB-type lighting strip with LEDs-
10035] FIG. 15 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
2-way, "double" connector comprising two socket type junctions for
interconnecting, both
mechanically and electrically, up to two single-color type lighting strips to
increase the overall
length of a lighting system.
[0036] FIG. 16 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
2-way, "double" connector comprising two socket type }unctions for
interconnecting, both
mechanically and electrically, up to two RGB-type lighting strips to increase
the overall length of
a lighting system-
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
10037] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, provided are
various
connector assemblies for lighting strips and lighting strip systems with
connector assemblies.
More particularly, the present invention relates to modular lighting systems,
which provide for
mechanical (eg, physical) and electrical interconnection of multiple lighting
strip devices to
form lighting systems.
(0038) One of the many potential advantages of the connectors of the present
invention,
only some of which are discussed herein, is that the connectors may be used
with a variety of
lighting strips that can be combined and conveniently interconnected with the
strip lighting to
form modular lighting systems. In some embodiments, the connectors may be used
with rigid
lighting strips, flexible lighting strips, water-resistant, waterproof, or non-
waterproof, and any
combination thereof.
(00391 In certain embodiments, the connectors may also be used with PCBs that
can be
combined and conveniently interconnected with at least one operably mounted
LED to form
modular lighting systems- One of the advantages of the connectors of the
present Invention
may include a multitude of configurations wherein they may provide for easily
removable,
friction-fit, latchless, and electrical interconnection of two or more
components. Another
advantage includes that certain embodiments of the invention may include
lighting systems
comprising a latch-type securing mechanism, preferably releasable, capable of
securing the
connection between lighting strips and connectors when installed but also
allowing for
convenient disengagement of the components for repairs. This should reduce the
cost of
making and disassembling such lighting systems, especially when components can
be reused or
are not damaged by previous installation means.
(0040] In embodiments of lighting systems according to the invention, included
is a
modular lighting system comprising: 1) a plurality of modular lighting strips
each comprising: a
non-conductive substrate strip comprising an electrical circuit; a plurality
of light sources
operably connected to the electrical circuit; a plug integrally formed at an
end of the substrate
strip; and a socket integrally formed at an opposing end of the substrate
strip; wherein the plug
and socket provide for removable, friction-fit, and electrical interconnection
of two or more
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circuits; 2) a connector assembly comprising: a non-conductive substrate with
an electrical
circuit; two or more plugs and/or sockets integrally-formed with the substrate
and in operable
communication with the electrical circuit, wherein the plugs and sockets
provide for removable,
friction fit, and electrical interconnection of two or more circuits of
lighting strips when
connected therewith; and 3) means for operably connecting a modular lighting
strip or the
connector to an electrical power supply for providing power to the light
sources. Such
connectors can also be used as connectors and provided as components to a
lighting system.
[0041] Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 1 shows a 4-way connector of the
invention. As
shown, four socket-type components are integrally formed with a non-conductive
PC6
substrate comprising an electrical circuit. Each of the sockets is joined with
the PCB in a
manner to provide for an operable electrical circuit through each socket
whether into or out of
the electrical circuit of the PCB. Further, each socket is operably configured
to provide for
removable, friction-fit, and electrical interconnection of two or more
circuits, whether secured
with a latching mechanism (with or without friction fit of the socket with a
plug) or not to join
together two circuits. Although sockets are shown in this embodiment, one or
more or all of
the sockets can be replaced by plug-type components, More particularly, the 4-
way connector
can comprise one socket and three plugs, two sockets and two plugs, three
sockets and one
plug, or four sockets, or four plugs. The 4-way connector can also be
constructed in a manner
to provide for a waterproof connection with the connector, for example, using
the techniques
demonstrated in FIGS_ 3QA-E.
100421 In a strip lighting system, power would travel from a power source
through one
or more lighting strips comprising light sources, such as LEDs. Preferably the
lighting strips are
operably configured to be joined together in a releasable manner to provide a
continuous
electrical circuit. When it is desired to have the light sources continue. on
additional paths, or
when the length of the overall lighting system needs to be increased by
joining into the system
an additional lighting strip, a connector would be introduced to the lighting
system.
[0043] For example, using a 4-way connector, a single lighting strip could
provide a
circuit for the energy from the power source to enter the connector. Having a
connector
operably configured to allow the flow of electricity into the connector at one
of the
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sockets/plugs and out of the connector at three sockets/plugs, the energy
could pass through
the connector from the single input lighting strip or power source and exit
the connector at
three additional lighting strips. If he electrical circuit of the connectors
can be configured in any
manner to provide for as many inputs and/or outputs as is needed to provide
the desired
lighting effect or pathway(s) of lighting strips. Not all of the junctions of
a connector must be
used if the connector is installed. For example, if a 90 degree turn is needed
in the lighting
system, a 4-way connector can be introduced and only two of the plugs or
sockets used. The
unused junctions can be left alone or capped.
100441 As shown in FIG. 2, a 2-way "double" connector for single color
lighting systems
can comprise one or more sockets/plugs joined together. The sockets/plugs are
integrally
formed into the connector to provide for an electrical pathway through the
connector from one
socket/plug to the other. As shown, the socket/plugs can be joined by way of
soldering the
electrical circuits together- Here, opposing ends of the double connector are
two sockets, but
could equally be two plugs, or a plug and a socket. A resin or silicone gel
can be used to cover
the PCB and the electrical connection between the PCB and the connector to
render the unit
waterproof or water resistant, or the connector can be encased in a plastic or
rubber
(insulative) sleeve. Any of the components, lighting strips, connectors, etc.,
described in this
application can be rendered waterproof, or water-resistant in this manner.
[00451 FIG. 3 shows a 2-way "double" connector of the invention for RGB
lighting
systems. The sockets/plugs are Integrally formed into the connector to provide
for an electrical
pathway through the connector from one socket/plug to the other. As shown, the
socket/plugs
can be joined by way of soldering the electrical circuits together. Here,
opposing ends of the
double connector are two sockets, but could equally be two plugs, or a plug
and a socket. The
electrical connections of this type of connector can also be protected from
the elements with
any number of available waterproofing or water-resistance means.
[00461 FIG. 4 shows a component that may be used to join single color lighting
system to
a power source. FIG. 5 shows a component that may be used to join RGB lighting
system to a
power source. Such components of the systems typically provide for electrical
and mechanical
connection between a power source and the lighting system without providing
light sources.
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However, a lighting strip and/or a connector could also be adapted for direct
connection with a
power source, for example, by configuring one end of the lighting strip or
connector for
plugging directly into a wall outlet.
[0047] FIGS. 6A-C (also numbered respectively as 70-F) show various views of
an
exemplary socket-type junction which can be used in the connectors and
lighting strips of the
invention. In partic.ilar, the socket shown is compatible with single color
flexible lighting strips,
This socket type can be incorporated into any of the 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way,
etc., connectors.
Further, the socket can be made waterproof, if desired.
[0048] In FIG- 6A, a front elevation view of socket is provided, which
provides a detailed
view of plug hole. The plug hole comprises electrical contacts within the
hole. Each electrical
contact corresponds in size, shape, length, and number with a wire leads
incorporated as part
of the socket. Preferably, the wire leads are irremovably connected to the
contacts- Both the
wire leads and contacts are spaced and sized to accommodate connection with
one another
and provide for an electrical path from the circuit of one PCB (lighting
strip) to the circuit of
another during use. If desired, the connectors can also be joined together in
a system, where
needed and it is not required to alternate between connector and lighting
strip- This is true for
any embodiment provided in this application.
(0049) A rear perspective view of socket, FIG. 66, shows wire leads extending
externally
from socket, Wire leads are configured to be joined with the circuit portion
of the connector in
a manner to allow a flow of current to pass from a lighting strip, through the
circuitry of the
connector, and in and through the socket to another lighting strip or
connector. A front
perspective view of a socket embodiment, FIG. 6C, shows plug hole, electrical
contacts, and
wire leads in relation to one another- In preferred embodiments, the socket-
type portion of
the connector is the same as the socket-type portion of the lighting strips
joined with the
connector and is compatible with the plug-type portion of the lighting strips.
That is, in
embodiments the plug and socket ends of the lighting strips allow for mating
of the lighting
strips with the connectors by way of mating plugs and sockets of each.
[0050] FIGS. 7A-B show, respectively, a side elevation view and a top plan
view of an
exemplary plug-type junction, which can be used in the connectors of the
invention. This type
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of plug can be incorporated into any of the 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way, etc.,
connectors and made
waterproof if desired. The plug shown is compatible with single color flexible
lighting strips.
(0051] FIGS. 7A-B show, respectively, a side elevation view and a top plan
view of an
exemplary plug-type end of a single color flex strip, which corresponds to the
plug-type portion
of the connector. In this embodiment, the plug comprises electrical contacts.
Electrical
contacts can be arranged in or on the lighting strip and in or on the circuit
of the connector in
any manner, so long as they provide for electrical and physical connection
with another
connector, lighting strip, or power source. As shown in this embodiment, 7
electrical contacts
are arranged lengthwise to the substrate and parallel to one another with some
spacing
between them. A corresponding socket would be arranged in a similar fashion.
100521 The contacts can be connected, preferably irremovably mounted. to the
substrate (of the lighting strip and connector) in a manner that provides for
physical and
electrical connection of the contacts to the electrical circuit (not shown) of
the substrate. As in
FIG. 7A, the plug can overlap with substrates lightly to provide for the
connection by way of
contacting the contacts with appropriate parts of the PCB circuit (of the
lighting strip and
connector). The material of the plug is advantageously also plastic, however,
typically a more
rigid material than substrate. As shown, several layers of the same or
different material may be
used to increase the strength of the strip (or connector) at plug. A more
rigid plug will provide
for ease of connection with a corresponding socket during use, as guiding and
inserting the plug
into the socket will be easier with a more rigid material- The plug has a size
and shape that
complement the site and shape of a corresponding socket. The complementary
size and shape
allow for a friction fit, releasable, and latchless engagement between a
socket and plug, for
example, the socket and plug of FIGS. GA-713-
[00531 FIGS, 8A-D and 9A-B show various views of an exemplary socket-type end
and
complementary plug-type end of a multi-color flex strip, which can be used in
the connectors of
the invention. These socket and plug types can be incorporated into any of the
2-way, 3-way,
or 4-way, etc., connectors- Further, the socket can be made waterproof, if
desired-
(00541 In particular, FIG. 5A shows a top plan view of a representative
formation of
electrical contacts that could be installed in or on a substrate (fighting
strip or connector) at the
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socket end. As Shown, multiple contacts are provided, e.g., 4, but any number
can be used
depending on the type of light sources used. Each electrical contact
corresponds in size, shape,
length, and number with a wire lead incorporated as part of the socket. A
bottom plan view of
the socket, FIG- S9, shows wire leads extending externally from the socket-
Further, FIG- SC
shows another view of the socket, a side elevation view, highlighting the wire
leads, which are
preferably irremovably connected to the contacts. Both the wire leads and
contacts are spaced
and sized to accommodate connection with one another and provide for an
electrical path from
the circuit of one PCB to the circuit of another during use, In FIG. SD, a
front elevation view of
socket is provided, which provides a more detailed view of plug hole. The plug
hole comprises
electrical contacts within the hole, which correspond to the number of
contacts and wire leads.
[D055] FIGS. 9A-B show, respectively, a side elevation view and a top plan
view of an
exemplary plug-type end of a multi-color flex strip, which can be used as the
plug portion of a
connector. In this embodiment, the plug comprises electrical contacts.
Electrical contacts can
be arranged in or on the substrate (lighting strip or connector) in any
manner. As shown in this
embodiment, 4 electrical contacts are arranged lengthwise to substrate and
parallel to one
another with some spacing between them. The contacts can be connected,
preferably
irremovably mounted, to the substrate in a manner that provides for physical
and electrical
connection of the contacts to the electrical circuit (not shown) of the
substrate. As shown in
FIG- SA, the plug can overlap with the substrate slightly to provide for the
connection by way of
contacting the contacts with appropriate parts of the PCB circuit. The
material of the plug is
advantageously also plastic, typically a more rigid material than substrate or
several layers of
the same material- A more rigid plug will provide for ease of connection with
a corresponding
socket during use, as guiding and inserting the plug end into the socket will
be easier with a
more rigid material. The plug has a size and shape that complement the size
and shape of a
corresponding socket. The complementary size and shape allow for a friction
fit, releasable,
and latchless engagement between a socket and plug, eg, the socket and plug of
FIGS- SA-9B-
[00561 FIGS.10A-E are photos of various types of waterproof connectors for
lighting
systems of the invention. FiGS. 10A-B show a waterproof or water-resistant
version of
connectors according to the invention. More specifically, as shown in FIG$,
10A-B. the
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Customer No. 95,450
plug/socket connection can be performed in part by a friction fit between the
corresponding
electrical components of the plug and corresponding socket and/or by a screw-
type connection.
Even further, the connection between the plug and socket can be configured to
be a latchless
type connection, where the components are held together by insertion of the
male electrical
components into the corresponding female components, or an additional latch
can be included
to secure the mating ends together. A protective sleeve can also be Installed
over the
connection between two strips alone or in combination with additional
waterproofing material,
such as silicone gel to fill in any gaps. FIGS. 10C-D show another waterproof
or water-resistant
version of the lighting strips, wherein a silicone gel covers the surface of
the PCB and the LEDs
and the connector ends are encompassed with a protective cover or sleeve- When
the lighting
strips are joined together, a waterproof or water-resistant connection is
made. Any of the
multi-way connectors of the invention can be configured in this manner to
provide a
waterproof or water-resistant connector by encasing the connector or the PCB
with silicone gel
or a resin and/or encasing or covering portions of the connector (except for
the mating faces)
to provide a water-resistant or waterproof seal once connected with lighting
strips.
(0057] 11G.11 is a photo of a connector of the invention operably connected
with wire
leads for transmitting electrical energy from a power source to, in, and
through the connector
assembly to a lighting strip with single-color LEDs. As with any of the
connectors, lighting strips,
lighting systems, or any component of a lighting system described in this
application, the
connectors and/or PCBs can be provided in any color. In this manner the
lighting systems can
be installed, for example, over a similar or same color background (eg, white
wall and white
PCB and connectors) to camouflage the existence of the lighting system once
installed.
[0058] FIG-12 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
4-way, cross-type connector comprising a rigid PCB supporting an electrical
circuit which is in
operable communication with four socket type junctions for interconnecting,
both mechanically
and electrically, up to four RGB type lighting strips to obtain a lighting
system having light
sources radiating away from the connector in four directions. Here, the
connector is configured
to accept electrical energy from a power source or a lighting strip into one
of the sockets and
deliver the electrical energy through the electrical circuit on or in the PCB
to the three other
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Customer No. 95,450
sockets and into three other lighting strips- In this manner, the lighting
system can be more
complex than a straight line, A lighting system with this type of connector
can for example
provide lighting along two seemingly intersecting lines. The connectors and
PCB can be
provided in any color, for example, to match the color of a corresponding
installation surface to
which the lighting system will be installed- Additionally, the PCB and/or
connectors can be
made waterproof or water-resistant by covering with a waterproof material,
silicone gel, resin,
plastic, rubber, or any insulative sleeve.
{0059] FIG. 13 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
4-way, cross-type connector comprising a rigid PCB supporting an electrical
circuit which is in
operable communication with four socket type junctions for interconnecting,
both mechanically
and electrically, up to four single-color type lighting strips to obtain a
lighting system having
light sources radiating away from the connector in four directions. This
connector has the same
capabilities as the RGS-type connector described in FIG. 12, such as being
able to configure
more complex lighting displays, providing the lighting system in a color for
camouflaging the.
system when installed, and/or waterproofing the lighting system as described
above.
(0060J FIG. 14 is a photo of a connector of the invention operably connected
with wire
leads for transmitting electrical energy from a power source to, in, and
through the connector
assembly to an RGB-type lighting strip with LEDs. As with any of the
connectors, lighting strips,
lighting systems, or any component of a lighting system described in this
application, the
connectors and/or PCSs of FIG. 14 can be provided in any color. In this manner
the lighting
systems can be installed, for example, over a similar or same color background
(e& white wall
and white PCB and connectors) to camouflage the existence of the lighting
system once
installed. The connectors can also comprise waterproofing or insulating
materials.
(0061] FIG. 15 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
2-way, "double" connector comprising two socket type junctions for
interconnecting, both
mechanically and electrically, up to two single-color type lighting strips to
increase the overall
length of a lighting system. The 2-way connector in this embodiment comprises
two identical
sockets soldered together at their external electrical contacts. Using
existing universal sockets
as shown in FIG, 15, provides for quick and simple manufacturing of the
connectors, as no
CA 02740387 2011-05-12
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Customer No. 95,450
special connector configuration is needed, ie, no additional parts are needed
for the fighting
system, when the connectors can comprise the same components found in lighting
strips.
Further, if desired, the connectors can be made on site during installation of
the lighting system
by joining them as shown with solder, The connectors, or any connector
described in this
application can also comprise two different sockets, or one socket and one
plug, or any
combination of junctions to meet particular needs of a desired lighting
system.
100621 FIG. 16 is a photo of a connector assembly according to the invention,
which is a
2-way, "double" connector comprising two socket type junctions for
interconnecting, both
mechanically and electrically, up to two RGB-type lighting strips to increase
the overall length of
a lighting system. The connector of FIG, 16 is similar to that shown in FIG.
15 and thus has all
of the same capabilities, including the advantage of using existing lighting
system components.
Any of these connectors can also be made for waterproof lighting systems. The
2-way, similar
to the multi-way designs, can alternatively comprise an intermediate PCB to
join the sockets-
Such connectors also present ease of manufacture by requiring only connection
with the PCB
instead of a completely discrete component. For example, existing sockets can
be soldered to
opposing ends of a PCB comprising a desired electrical circuit, wherein the
external electrical
contacts of the sockets are placed in contact with appropriate portions of the
electrical circuit
of the PCB and then soldered or otherwise connected therewith in a manner to
enable an
electrical current to travel through one socket through the PCB to the other
socket.
[00631 FIGS. 14A-H show a method for waterproofing according to an embodiment
of
the invention. In particular, as shown silicone gel (or other waterproofing
material) can be used
to connect a plastic sleeve to a terminal end of a flexible lighting strip of
the invention. such a
sleeve could also be used over and encompassing two ends of lighting strips to
be joined
together by electrical connectors to ensure the waterproof connection.
[00641 The lighting devices of the present invention can be dimmable and/or
programmable so as to provide color mixing, a chasing circuit, flashing, etc.
Further, the light
strips can operate at voltages of 12 or 24 VOC, To keep the electrical current
consistent during
operation, integrated circuits, transistors, and/or resistors can be used.
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(00651 Specific embodiments include: Embodiment 1. A connector assembly for
modular lighting strips comprising: two or more female-type socket components
each
comprising a separate housing encompassing internal electrical contacts
disposed within a hole
and operably connected with external electrical contacts or disposed as
external electrical
contacts from the housing; wherein corresponding exterior electrical contacts
of the sockets
are operably connected with one another or are operably connected with an
electrical circuit of
a printed circuit board (PCB), such that during operation in a lighting system
power flows
through one socket to another socket or through one socket, the PCB and
another socket; and
wherein the sockets provide for removable, friction-fit, and electrical
interconnection of lighting
strips when connected therewith- The connector assembly of Embodiment 1 which
comprises a
3-or 4-way connector. The connector assembly of Embodiment 2 comprising one
socket for
accepting electrical energy, remaining sockets or plugs for outputting the
energy Into one or
more lighting strip, and an electrical circuit for delivering the energy to
the remaining sockets or
plugs. The connector assembly of Embodiment 1, wherein the connector is
selected from the
group consisting of a y-type connector, a cross-type connector, a double
connector, and any
combination thereof. The connector assembly of Embodiment 2, which is
waterproof. The
connector assembly of Embodiment 1, wherein the connector assembly further
comprises a
latch-type securing mechanism for securing the connection between lighting
strips and the
connector- The connector assembly of Embodiment 6, wherein the latch-type
securing
mechanism is releasable. The connector assembly of Embodiment 1, wherein the
PCB is rigid.
The connector assembly of Embodiment 1, wherein the lighting strips comprise
LEDs. A
modular lighting system comprising: 1) a plurality of modular lighting strips
each comprising: a
non-conductive substrate strip comprising an electrical circuit; a plurality
of light sources
operably connected to the electrical circuit; a plug operably connected to one
end of the
substrate strip; and a socket operably connected at an opposing end of the
substrate strip;
wherein the plug and socket provide for removable, friction-fit, and
electrical interconnection
of two or more circuits; a connector assembly comprising: two or more female-
type socket
components each comprising a housing encompassing internal electrical contacts
disposed
within a hole and operably connected with external electrical contacts or
disposed as external
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Customer No, 9S,450
electrical contacts from the housing; wherein corresponding exterior
electrical contacts of the
sockets are operably connected with one another or are operably connected with
an electrical
circuit of a printed circuit board (PCB), such that during operation in a
lighting system power
flows through one socket to another socket or through one socket, the PCB and
another socket;
and wherein the sockets of the connector are the same type of components as
the sockets of
the lighting strips; and means for operably connecting a modular lighting
strip or the connector
to an electrical power supply for providing power to the light sources. The
modular lighting
system of Embodiment 10 wherein the connector comprises a 3-or 4-way
connection. The
modular lighting system of Embodiment 11 comprising one socket for accepting
electrical
energy, remaining sockets or plugs for outputting the energy into one or more
lighting strip,
and an electrical circuit for delivering the energy to the remaining sockets
or plugs. The
modular lighting system of Embodiment 11 wherein the connector further
comprises a
releasable latch-type securing mechanism for securing the connection between
the lighting
strips and the connectors. The modular lighting system of Embodiment 11
wherein the socket
or socket components of the lighting strips are the same as the socket
components of the
connector or connectors. The modular lighting system of Embodiment 10 wherein
at least one
of the lighting strips comprises no LEDs. The modular lighting system of
Embodiment 10
wherein at least one of the lighting strips comprises LEDs_ The modular
lighting system of
Embodiment 10 wherein the connector provides for co-planar, parallel, or
perpendicular
interconnection of the lighting strips. A modular lighting system comprising:
at least one first
printed circuit board (PCB), optionally comprising at least one operably
mounted light emitting
diode (LED), wherein the first PCB is capable of being operably connected to a
power supply
and to a second PCB; at least one second PCB with at least one operably
mounted LED, which is
capable of being operably connected to the first PCB and optionally operably
connected to a
third PCB; and at least one connector comprising multiple sockets and plugs
for operably
connecting two or more consecutive PCBs. The modular lighting system of
Embodiment 18
wherein the connector is operably configured to provide a multi-way connection
of the lighting
strips. The modular lighting system of Embodiment 18 wherein the connector
further
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Customer No. 95,450
comprises a latch-type securing mechanism for securing the connection between
the lighting
strips and the connectors.
(0066) The lighting systems and strip lighting devices of the present
invention are useful
in many applications where strip type lighting can be used. For example, the
lighting devices
and systems according to the invention can be used in any residential or
commercial application
where such lighting is desired for decoration, backlighting or functional
lighting, including for
aisle, path, and contour lighting, such as in theatres, hospitals, airplanes,
concert halls,
stadiums, and auditoriums; elegant interior decoration, such as In
restaurants, nightclubs,
casinos, piers, malls, streets, stations, stages, offices and lobbies; homes,
including as accent
lighting in living rooms, under cabinet lighting in kitchens, backlighting In
display cases and
shelving systems, functional and decorative lighting in entryways and
recreational rooms;
seasonal applications, such as for holiday decorations or landscape lighting;
automobiles;
architectural lighting, even including tent or canopy lighting; signal
lighting; and backlighting
larger size signs. The applications mentioned are merely representative of the
numerous
applications for which the lighting systems and strip lighting devices of the
present invention
may be applicable.
(00671 The present invention has been described with reference to particular
embodiments having various features. It will be apparent to those skilled in
the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the practice of the present
invention without
departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art
will recognize that
these features may be used singularly or in any combination based on the
requirements and
specifications of a given application or design. Other embodiments of the
Invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification
and practice of the
invention. it is intended that the specification and examples be considered as
exemplary in
nature and that variations that do not depart from the essence of the
invention are intended to
be within the scope of the invention.
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