WO2019011378A1 - LED PANEL WITH SWITCHABLE CONNECTOR - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an LED panel, which has at least one illuminant. The panel also has contacting means (2), which can be used to electrically connect the panel to at least one further panel or an entire panel wall, such as a display panel or an advertising wall, for example. The individual panel furthermore has a unit (3), which can be used to displace and pivot the contacting means (2) so that said panel can be repaired and exchanged without difficulty. The essential feature of this invention is the possibility for the separate new infeed of: data, signals or power at any desired panel, and also in a panel assembly. The invention furthermore relates to an associated method.

Description

 LED panel with swing-out connector

description

 The invention relates to a LED panel with swing-out connector according to the preamble of independent claim 1 and of a method according to the type of independent

Claim 20.

Such LED panels can be assembled into scoreboards. Scoreboards are used for example in sports stadiums or attached to buildings for advertising purposes.

State of the art

 DE 20 2010 008 460 U1 shows a panel which has a

Connecting means with another panel to a display panel is mechanically connected. Each individual panel contains one

Through hole, which serves for individual power supply. The connecting means of DE 20 2010 008 460 U1 are separate parts, which makes the installation of display panels made of such panels difficult.

The electrical wiring of the panels of DE 20 2010 008 460 U1 takes place on the back. Such wiring is susceptible to moisture, which is the susceptibility of an existing

Scoreboard increased.

Furthermore, connector systems are known with which different connectors and contacts can be connected. Especially in event technology, it is often necessary in the assembly and installation of, for example, music, light or image systems a variety

different signal and power contacts to connect. In such applications, signal connectors and Power connectors or contacts are conveniently combined via such a connector system. Instead of mounting a variety of connectors so only one

Plug connector system are plugged.

In special cases, these connector systems are installed directly in the application. Some display modules of a video screen, for example, are not connected by cables, but have integrated connector systems. The modules can be directly plugged into each other and connected. An additional connection via a cable or extra lines is no longer necessary. Such a connector system is for example in the

DE 20 2016 104 271 U1.

The German Patent and Trademark Office has in the priority application for the present application, the following prior art research: DE 10 2015 214 958 A1 and DE 10 2014 003 251 A1.

task

 The object of the invention is to propose an LED panel which simplifies the construction of a display panel and which is less susceptible to environmental influences.

The task is characterized by the characterizing features of

independent claim 1 and solved by the method according to independent claim 20.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

The invention relates to an LED panel having at least one light source. The panel further comprises contacting means with which the panel is electrically connectable to at least one other panel. It is at the contact means to a connector. Next, the panel has a unit with which the

Contacting is displaceable and pivotable.

The LED panel can for example be part of a large

Display panel, a panel wall or an advertising space. The known panels have a front and a back. The unit is housed inside the front and back. This unit acts on the contact means received in the interior.

The light-emitting means are preferably LEDs, although other equivalent bulbs are also conceivable.

The contact means is a connector, in particular a multi-pin connector. But the use of a single-pole connector is conceivable. Due to the multi-pole design, a transmission of power and / or signals and / or data is also possible. In a particular embodiment, the contacting means is a hybrid connector having two RJ45 connectors and power contacts.

The contact means is necessary to electrically connect different panels together. Only through the connection between the panels creates a corresponding scoreboard. However, with this connection by means of the contacting means, a single panel is difficult to repair.

The unit according to the invention comprising the panel solves this problem by acting on and between the contacting means different states. Furthermore, the object is achieved by the pivotable arrangement of the

Contacting agent within the unit.

In a particular embodiment, the unit allows a vertical displacement of the contacting means between a connected state and a disconnected state. The displaceability of the contacting means facilitates the repair of a single panel.

In a preferred embodiment, the unit in the connected state connects the panel to another panel both electrically and mechanically. This ensures a secure, stable connection between the individual panels of an entire panel wall.

In a further preferred embodiment, the unit separates the panel mechanically and electrically from another panel in the disconnected state. In this state, the single, separate panel is mechanically released, free of pulling forces and de-energized. Consequently, so

Repair work on the single panel without risk for humans and panel possible.

In a preferred embodiment, the unit allows a pivoting of the contacting means between a straight state and a swung-out state. By pivoting, it is now possible to use the contact means for re-feeding signals and / or voltages.

In a particularly preferred embodiment that is

Contacting in the straight state for contacting with another panel, so the connected state suitable. In the straight Condition is the contacting means on a line, in alignment, with the contacting of another panel.

In a further preferred embodiment, the contacting means in the swung-out state for contacting with an external connector, as in the separated state, is suitable. By the

swung out state is the connection of an external

Connector allows. This option is needed to supply large groups of panels with current, voltage or signals.

In an advantageous embodiment, the contacting means in the separated state by hand and / or with an aid is pivotable. By the possibility of manual operation or the manual mobility of the contacting between the disconnected and swung-out state, it is arbitrary by a worker

positionable, so that it can be decided at short notice, at which point an external connector should be connected to a panel.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the unit or at least one wall of the panel on a Anformung. In the Anformung the contact means protrudes in the swung-out state

simultaneously connected state. The Anformung represents a

Protective function for the contacting in the swung out state. Thus, damage to the contact in the

swung-out state, for example during transport to the construction site prevented.

By Anformung is preferably an access to the

Contacting means and also a pivoting of the

Contacting between the straight state and the

swung out state and vice versa possible. Thus, the met Forming a double function. On the one hand, it ensures that

Contacting means against external influences, on the other hand, it also ensures access to the contact means from the outside by the worker.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the Anformung is protected by a protective cap from environmental influences. The protective cap is designed according to Anformung. It serves as one hand

Weather protection, on the other hand as dust protection. The protective cap also provides mechanical protection during installation of the panel. The protective cap increases the longevity and robustness of the panel.

Preferably, the contacting agent is a one-piece

Hybrid connector for transmitting power and / or data and / or signals. The one-piece design of the connector ensures a high degree of stability.

In an alternative embodiment, the contacting means is a modular hybrid connector with individual modules for transmitting power and / or data and / or signals. The modular design allows a flexible application for the worker, for example, when only voltages or only signals or only data to be transmitted via an external connector. The design with individual modules, the worker can move the module required in each case in the swung-out state, while other individual modules in the connected state, for example, with a further panel, can be moved. Furthermore, when using

Single modules also a so-called Unterbestückung conceivable, so that it is sufficient if only at least one individual module, depending on

Desire of the user, is installed. This possibility allows the Users who want to use the panel, a high level

Individualization.

In an advantageous embodiment, the contacting can be locked in the swung-out state. The locking ensures that

Contacting agent in the set position, ie in

swung out or in straight condition. For this purpose, any number of locking positions can be provided. Particularly preferred is the use of one or two locking positions. The locking takes place via the pivot arm of the contacting. The swivel arm has different locking positions, so locking positions.

In the disconnected state, the single panel is advantageously completely made of the composite of several panels, such as one

Scoreboard or advertising wall, removable. This facilitates the replacement of a complete panel in the event of a complete failure.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the unit is displaceable by means of a tool. The tool is

preferably a hex key, as is well known in the art.

Advantageously, the unit is from the front and / or the

The back of the panel can be operated. That is, the displacement of the unit can be done by means of a tool from any side. This offers the advantage in the repair that not only laboriously a gap for the mechanic must be found when the panels are mounted, for example, close to a wall.

In a preferred embodiment, the external connector has a lid and a housing, wherein the lid and the housing latched together and form at least one conductor receptacle. Like any connector, the external connector has a plug-in side and a connection side opposite the plug-in side. The shape of the housing and thus also the cover of the external connector corresponds to the shape of the Anformung, so that a positive and non-positive connection is generated in the contacting when the external

Connector, more precisely the mating side, and the Anformung, to be contacted more precisely the contacting means.

In a particular embodiment of the preferred embodiment, the lid of the external connector at least one pin on which a so-called blind plug can be plugged. The blind plug can thus be stored in the lid and, if necessary, inserted into an unneeded ladder receptacle, so that it is securely closed. This offers the advantage that the worker is always flexible on the job

Requirements of different sized panel-connected can respond to any design of the external connector can quickly generate.

The conductor receptacle is configured such that it is suitable for at least one signal / data line and at least one line for

Power transmission, preferably in separate chambers, offers space. The separation increases the security of the conductor fixation in the conductor receptacle.

Furthermore, in the external connector, as well as the

Contacting, with the use of individual modules also a so-called under-stocking conceivable, so that it is sufficient if only at least one individual module, depending on the user's desire, is installed. This option allows the user who wants to use the panel a high degree of customization. Alternatively, the external connector can be fitted in one piece. In this case, the external connector and the contacting need not have the same type of assembly, as long as the

Contact partner, as the connectors for the transmission of signals and / or data and / or power match each other.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the external

Connector to a seal which is formed in two parts and arranged in the region of the conductor receiving. In this case, a part of the seal is arranged on the side of the housing and the other part in the lid of the external connector. Now lock lid and housing together, the area of the conductor receiving and the lid, thus consequently the entire external connector is completely sealed.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for separating and connecting an LED panel from a LED panel composite and for simultaneous re-feeding of further signals and / or

tensions

which comprises the following method steps:

a) shifting the unit from the connected state to the

 separate state,

b) pivoting of the entire contacting means or any individual modules from the straight state to the swung-out state,

c) shifting the unit from the disconnected state to the

 connected state,

d) Connecting an external connector for re-feeding of further signals and / or voltages.

This method allows you to connect an external one

Connector for re-feeding of further signals and / or voltages. It is advantageous that the pivoting of the entire Contacting agent or any individual modules can be done manually or by means of an aid.

Advantageously, the reversal of the invention comprises

Procedure the following steps:

e) releasing an external connector,

a) shifting the unit from the connected state to the

 separate state,

f) pivoting the entire contacting means or any individual modules from the swung-out state into the straight-line state,

c) shifting the unit from the disconnected state to the

 connected state.

These two variants of the method make both a safe separation and a connection of an LED panel with a LED panel composite possible. Furthermore, the methods are designed so that they are also suitable for the simultaneous re-feeding of signals and / or voltages. The method according to the invention makes it easy for the worker to set up and also to dismantle or repair, care for, and maintain LED panel assemblies.

The steps a) and c) mentioned in the reversal of the method correspond to steps a) and c) from the normal course of the method. They were taken up again here, since this is the same process.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the removal of the protective cap takes place before method step d). When the method is reversed, the protective cap is placed after method step e). The removal and placement of the protective cap refers each on the assembly or disassembly of the protective cap to the

Conformation.

embodiment

 An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawings and will be explained in more detail below. Show it:

Fig. 1 a) -b) a plan view of a contacting means and a

 Unit of a panel

Fig. 2 a) -d) a further plan view of a contacting means and a unit of a panel

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a panel

 Fig. 4 a) -d) an overview of the states of a connector in a panel

 Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an external

 connector

The figures contain partially simplified, schematic representations. In part, for the same, but possibly not identical

Elements identical reference numerals used. Different views of the same elements could be scaled differently.

Figures 1 a) and b) each show a plan view of a

Contacting means 2 and a unit 3 of a panel 1. In this case, the contacting means 2 and the unit 3 are arranged opposite one another and connected to one another by means of a pivot pole 9. The unit 3 and thus also the contacting means 2 are shown in Figure 1 a) in a straight state G and in Figure 1 b) in a swung-out state A.

The contacting means 2 consists of a connector,

in particular from a hybrid connector. The connector has in this embodiment via two connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2, which are ideally RJ45 connectors. Furthermore, the contacting means 2 has a connector for power transmission 2.1 with five power contacts. Here, the connector for power transmission 2.1 between the two connectors for SignalVDatenübertragung 2.2

arranged. At the respective connectors corresponding conductors are arranged, which are not shown for illustrative reasons.

Overall, the unit 3 with the contacting means 2 together is approximately rectangular in shape, so that there is also a simple contour for recording in a panel.

The pivoting pole is a bolt connection between the unit 3 and the contacting means 2. Also, a connection by means of hinge joints and any other type of pivotal connection between the unit 3 and the contacting means 2 is conceivable.

Figures 2 a) to d) show the same contacting means 2, the same unit 3 and the same pivot pole 9 as shown in Figures 1 a) and b). However, they differ in the structure of the

Contacting agent 2.

In Figures 1 a) and b) the contacting means 2 is made in one piece, so that the connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2 and the connector for power transmission 2.1 only at the same time in the straight state G or the swung-out state A can be pivoted.

In contrast, in FIGS. 2 a) to d), the contacting means 2 has a modular construction. This means that the connectors are used to / Data transmission 2.2 independently and independently of the connector for power transmission 2.1 from the straight state G in the swung-out state A are movable and vice versa.

The advantage here is the use of a continuous

Schwenkpols 9, on which all pivotal elements are mounted Alternatively, a swivel pole 9 is also part of the

Contacting agent 2 conceivable.

Figure 2 a) shows one of the two connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2 in the straight state G and the other

Connector for signal / data transmission 2.2 and the

Connector for power transmission 2.1 in the swung-out state A.

In the figure 2 b) is one of the two connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2 2 and the connector for

Power transmission 2.1 in the straight state G and the other

Connector for signal / data transmission 2. shown in the swung-out state A.

2 c) shows the two connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2 in the straight state G and the connector for power transmission 2.1 in the swung-out state A.

In Figure 2 d), the two connectors for signal / data transmission 2.2 in the swung-out state A and the

Connector for power transmission 2.1 shown in the straight state G.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a panel with two opposing built-in contacting means 2, which for the sake of clarity not as a whole

Contacting means are labeled, in each case an associated actuator 6 and an Anformung 7. The contacting means 2 is designed modular. Here are all elements in the

swung-out state A and additionally in the disconnected state T. Thus, the elements of the contacting means 2 for connection to an external connector 10, which is shown in Figure 3, ready.

The panel in Figure 3 has only one Anformung 7. However, is also an embodiment, each with a Anformung 7 each

Contacting means 2 conceivable, if it is not clear on which side the connection possibility for an external connector 10 should be formed.

Furthermore, an actuator 6 is shown in FIG. 3 for each contacting means 2. The actuator 6 can be located, analogously to the unit 3, either in a connected state V or in a separate state T. In the disconnected state T (shown), this is

Contacting means 2 closer to the unit 3 (for the sake of

Representation not visible, since within the panel) than in the connected state V.

The actuator 6 has a receptacle 6.1. This is accessible from both sides and fully functional. The receptacle 6.1 is designed so that it can receive a tool, preferably a hex key. There are also other forms of recording 6.1 conceivable, which for the inclusion of an aid or a

Tool for the adjustment of the actuator 6 between the disconnected state T and the connected state V. The tool is used to adjust the unit 3 between the disconnected state T and the connected state V. Ideally, the actuator 6 for this purpose Display with a unique identifier, for example "up" and "down", "disconnected" and "connected" or "on" and "off".

On the presentation of the cap 8 has been omitted. It could have any shape. The shape of the protective cap 8 must match only the shape of the Anformung 7.

FIGS. 4 a) to d) again show in schematic illustrations the various states of the contacting means 2 in a panel with the corresponding unit 3, the pivoting pole 9, the molding 7 and a protective cap 8 placed there.

In FIG. 4 a), the contacting means 2 are in the straight state G and in the connected state V, wherein the connected panel is not shown. In this case, the contacting means 2 protrudes from the panel, so that a connection with another panel is possible.

FIG. 4 b) shows the contacting means 2 in the straight state G and in the disconnected state T. Thus, the contacting means 2 and / or the unit 3 and / or the entire panel can be taken from an assembly of panels.

The contacting means 2 is in the Figure 4 c) in the disconnected state T, as in Figure 4 c), but now additionally in the swung-out state A.

In order for a connection with an external connector 10 is possible, the contact means must be in the swung-out state A and additionally in the connected state V. Furthermore, the protective cap 8 must be removed. This is without the external one

Connector 10, shown in Figure 4 d). FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an external one

Connector 10. The mating side has in this illustration down and could thus be connected to a Anformung 7, as shown in Figure 3. The housing 1 1 has the same shape as the

Anformung 7, so elongated oval with two parallel long sides.

The lid 12 is pivotally mounted on the housing 1 1 and or as in this embodiment, a one-piece injection molded part with a bent edge. It is arranged on the connection side of the external connector 10.

The lid 12 and the housing 1 1 each have three half

Ladder receptacles 14 on. If the cover 12 is locked on the housing 1 1, so the conductor receptacles 14 are completely formed, instead of being only semicircular. The outer two conductor receptacles 14 are for receiving SignalVDatenleitungen and the inner

Conductor receptacle 14 designed for receiving a line for power transmission, as can be seen on the pieces of conductors shown.

The seal 13 is once as a circumferential seal in the lid

educated. Here it seals the conductor receptacles 14 and the entire cover in the latching with the housing 1 1. The housing 1 1 has the seal 13 only in the region of the conductor receptacles 14. Due to the circumferential seal 13 in the lid, a partial seal 13 in the housing 1 1 is sufficient for a complete and secure seal.

Although various aspects or features of the invention are shown in combination in the figures, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, unless stated otherwise, that the combinations illustrated and discussed are not the only ones possible. In particular, corresponding units or feature complexes from different embodiments can be exchanged with one another. LED panel with swing-out connector

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

2 contacting agents

 2.1 connector for power transmission

 2.2 Plug for data transmission

 3 unit

6 actuators

6.1 Recording

 7 Forming

 8 protective cap

 9 swivel pole

10 external connectors

 1 1 housing

 12 lids

 13 seal

 14 conductor receptacle

T separate condition

 V connected state

 A swung out state

 G straight condition

Claims

 LED panel with swing-out connector claims LED panel, which has at least one light source, characterized in that the panel has contacting means (2) with which the panel can be electrically connected to at least one further panel such that the contacting means (2) is a Plug connector acts, and the panel has a unit (3) with which the Contacting means (2) is displaceable and pivotable. LED panel according to claim 1 characterized in that the unit (3) a vertical displacement of the Contacting means (2) between a connected state (V) and a separate state (T) allows. LED panel according to claim 2 characterized in that the unit (3) in the connected state (V) mechanically and electrically connects the panel with another panel. LED panel according to claim 2 or 3 characterized in that the unit (3) in the disconnected state (T) mechanically and electrically separates the panel with another panel. 5. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the unit (3) pivoting the contacting means (2) between a straight state (G) and a  swung out state (A) allows. 6. LED panel according to claim 5  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) in the straight state (G) for  Contacting with another panel, so the connected state (V) is suitable. 7. LED panel according to claim 5 or 6  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) in the swung-out state (A) for contacting with an external connector (10), ie in the disconnected state (T), is suitable. 8. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) in the disconnected state (T)  has at least one means by which it is pivotable by hand and / or with an aid. 9. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that the unit (3) or at least one wall of the panel has an attachment (7), into which the contacting means (2) projects in the pivoted-out state (A) in the simultaneously connected state (V). 10. LED panel according to claim 9  characterized in that  by the Anformung (7) access to the contacting means (2) and also a pivoting of the contacting means (2) between the straight state (G) and the swung-out state (A) and vice versa is possible. 1 1. LED panel according to claim 9 or 10  characterized in that  the Anformung (7) by means of a protective cap (8)  Environmental influences is protected. 12. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) is a one-piece hybrid connector for transmitting power and / or data and / or signals. 13. LED panel according to one of claims 1 to 1 1  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) is a modular hybrid connector with individual modules for transmitting power and / or data and / or signals. 14. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the contacting means (2) in the swung-out state (A) can be locked. 15. LED panel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims  characterized in that the panel (1) in the separated state (T) is completely removable from a composite of panels. 16. LED panel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the unit (3) by means of a tool, in particular a hexagonal wrench, is displaceable. 17. LED panel according to one of the preceding claims  characterized in that  the unit (3) can be operated from a front side and / or a rear side of the panel. 18. LED panel according to one of claims 7 to 17  characterized in that  the external connector (10) has a lid (12) and a housing (1 1), wherein the lid (12) and the  Housing (1 1) can be latched together and form at least one conductor receptacle (14). 19. LED panel according to claim 18  characterized in that  the external connector (10) has a seal (13) which is formed in two parts and arranged in the region of the conductor receptacle (14). 20. Method for Disconnecting and Connecting an LED Panel from an LED Panel Composite and Simultaneously Re-feeding Additional Signals and / or Voltages  which comprises the following method steps:  a) shifting the unit (3) from the connected state (V) to the disconnected state (T), b) pivoting the entire contacting means (2) or any individual modules from the straight state (G) in the swung out state (A),  c) shifting the unit (3) from the disconnected state (T) to the connected state (V),  d) Connecting an external connector (10) to  New supply of further signals and / or voltages. 21. Method according to claim 19,  wherein the reversal of the method of claim 19 comprises the steps of:  e) releasing an external connector (10),  a) shifting the unit (3) from the connected state (V) to the disconnected state (T),  f) pivoting the entire contacting means (2) or any individual modules from the swung-out state (A) into the straight state (G),  c) shifting the unit (3) from the disconnected state (T) to the connected state (V). 22. The method according to claim 19 or 20,  wherein before the process step d) the removal of  Protective cap (8) takes place,  wherein after the process step e) the placement of the  Protective cap (8) takes place.