Modular stack light with central connectors

摘要

An in-line sound module for a modular stack light system provides electrical and mechanical connectors to allow it to be placed anywhere in the stack. Axial orientation of the audio transducer and a flexible jumpering system allow preservation of central connectors between modules. In-line configuration permits multiple sound modules to be used in a stack light and to be teamed with different beacon modules. In one embodiment the in-line sound module may also include lamps to provide beacon functionality.

主权项

1. An in-line module for use in a stack light of a type providing a set of beacon modules interlocking to each other and to a base unit by means of interlocking mechanical connectors and interfitting electrical connectors positioned at a top and bottom of each beacon module and at a top of the base unit, the mechanical connectors and electrical connectors together allowing multiple beacon modules and one base to be mechanically assembled into a tower with electrical communication between the base and each beacon module, the in-line module comprising:
a housing having sidewalls defining a chamber between an upper and lower face; a first mechanical connector and a second mechanical connector, the first and second mechanical connectors positioned, respectively, at the upper and lower face and adapted to interlock with corresponding mechanical connectors of the beacon modules or the base unit when the housing of the in-line module is rotated in a first direction and to release from the corresponding mechanical connectors of the beacon modules or the base unit when the housing of the in-line module is rotated in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite the first direction; a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector, the first and second electrical connectors positioned, respectively, at the upper and lower face and adapted to releasably interface with corresponding electrical connectors of beacon modules or the base unit, wherein the first and second electrical connectors are substantially centered within the upper and lower face; a circuit board extending in a longitudinal direction between the first and second electrical connectors and for at least a portion of a height of the housing of the in-line module, wherein the second electrical connectors are mounted to a first end of the circuit board; and electrical conductors extending within the housing between the first and second electrical connectors.