Method and Apparatus for Powering a Set of Direct-Current Consuming Loads

摘要

Set of linked together, direct current powered decorative ornaments. A branched power supply cord is provided that powers a plurality of decorative ornaments, each ornament having a direct current consuming load. The supply cord can include an elongate trunk supply line terminating at a base-end in a pronged plug configured for plugged insertion into an alternating current outlet. The pronged plug can be electrically coupled upstream to a switched-mode power supply having an AC-to-DC rectifier and having variable power output capability, the magnitude of which can be determined by the instant load demand thereupon. An operator-actuable switch can be electrically coupled downstream of the switched-mode power supply and can be electrically coupled upstream of a branched distal portion of the trunk supply line that has a plurality of lead-lines.

主权项

1. A branched power supply cord for powering a plurality of direct current consuming loads, the supply cord comprising:
an elongate trunk supply line terminating at a base-end in a pronged plug configured for plugged insertion into an alternating current outlet; the pronged plug electrically coupled upstream to a switched-mode power supply comprising an AC-to-DC rectifier and having variable power output capability, the magnitude of which is determined by the instant load demand thereupon; an operator-actuable switch electrically coupled downstream of the switched-mode power supply and electrically coupled upstream of a branched distal portion of the trunk supply line that comprises a plurality of lead-lines, each electrically connected to the trunk supply line at one of two ends of the lead-line and terminating in a female plug receiver at an opposite of the two ends of the lead-line; and the operator-actuable switch having an open configuration in which electricity is prevented from flowing from the switched-mode power supply to the plurality of lead-lines and a closed configuration in which electricity is permitted to flow from the switched-mode power supply to the plurality of lead-lines.