Connector for Light-Emitting Diode Strip

摘要

Embodiments of the invention relate to connectors for connecting strips of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) end-to-end and for connecting a single strip of LEDs to a power source. The connectors define a compartment to receive a strip of LEDs. Tabs extending inwardly from the sides of the connector retain the strip. Electrical contact with the strip is made by a pair of spring clip contacts that bear against electrical terminals on the strip. A hinged lid has an opening positioned so as not to obstruct the last LED on the strip, and carries a downwardly-facing block that bears against the spring clip ends to keep them in contact with the terminals of the strip. In a strip-to-power connector, the connector defines one compartment for each conductor, and each conductor carries connecting structure. Ends of the spring clip connectors carry complementary connecting structure.

主权项

1. A connector, comprising:
a connector base comprised of an electrically insulative material, the connector base defining
at least two compartments, a first compartment of the at least two compartments having a pair of retaining tabs extending into the compartment from respective sidewalls thereof and creating a slot between a floor of the first compartment and the pair of retaining tabs,a barrier between the first compartment and others of the at least two compartments,one or more conductive connecting members mounted on the barrier and extending between the first compartment and the others of the at least two compartments, andlid-engaging structure; and a lid connected to the connector base by a hinge, the hinge having complementary structure to engage the lid-engaging structure on the connector base.