A strip of encapsulated linear lighting with a partially encapsulated electrical connector is disclosed, as are processes for manufacturing such strips of encapsulated linear lighting. In these processes, connecting structure is connected to a strip of linear lighting. A portion of the connecting structure is then sheathed in a stopper. The stopper is used to dam a vessel or channel, the dammed vessel or channel is filled with resin, and the resin is caused or allowed to cure. The stopper protects the connecting structure from resin during the encapsulation process and leaves its contacts unencapsulated and exposed. The connecting structure can be connected to external structures, like a power cable or another segment of encapsulated linear lighting, after manufacture. A joint between the connecting structure and another structure can be overmolded or otherwise protected.
F21S 4/24 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape of ribbon or tape form, e.g. LED tapes
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
A linear luminaire includes a three-sided enclosure with a top that is at least translucent and a pair of depending sidewalls spaced apart by the top. The three-sided enclosure may be extruded from a plastic or, in some cases, co-extruded with two different materials so that the pair of sidewalls can be made of an opaque material. The three-sided enclosure may be open along a bottom aspect. An elongate rigid printed circuit board (PCB) carrying LED light engines is installed between the pair of sidewalls in slot structure defined on respective inner faces. The PCB may carry connecting structure staggered along the length of its underside. The PCB may also carry circuit components on its underside.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
A connector for a strip of linear lighting includes an outer shell or block and an adapter configured to be removably inserted into a cavity of the outer shell. The adapter may be a printed circuit board (PCB) adapted to mount wires on one side or edge. On the opposite side or edge, a series of contact pins are formed on the underside of the adapter. The outer shell includes a pressure-applying mechanism, like screws that insert through its thickness and are secured in a bar with threaded holes. The adapter is positioned such that the screws bear on and supply pressure to the contact pins. A strip of linear lighting is inserted into a slot beneath the adapter such that the contact pins of the adapter coincide with the solder pads or other electrical contacts of the strip of linear lighting.
An electrical gang box adapted for use with drivers is disclosed. The electrical gang box includes a main compartment with a front opening sized and adapted to accept an electrical control and structure around the front opening to secure the electrical control within the front opening and within the main compartment. The electrical gang box also includes a lower compartment that extends below the main compartment, is set back from the front of the main compartment and is open to the main compartment along an upper portion. The gang box may also include one or more pairs of rails disposed on opposite interior walls. In such cases, a divider panel is sized to slide into and extend between the rails to divide the junction box. Multiple-gang boxes with these features are also disclosed.
A method for making continuous encapsulated linear lighting is disclosed. In this method, a PCB is placed within a channel, and the channel is dammed by one or more stoppers. The dammed segment is filled and then caused or allowed to cure. The stoppers are then removed from their initial positions and moved along the channel. If one runs out of channel before the desired length of linear lighting is achieved, a second piece of channel is abutted to the previous segment of channel, the PCB is laid into it, and a segment is dammed, filled, and cured. The process continues iteratively until the desired length is achieved or more channel is required. The PCB may initially be cut to the full desired length and applied to the channel piecewise as needed.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
B29C 70/68 - Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers
B29C 70/72 - Encapsulating inserts having non-encapsulated projections, e.g. extremities or terminal portions of electrical components
10.
Continuous encapsulated linear lighting produced in segments
A method for making continuous encapsulated linear lighting is disclosed. In this method, a PCB is placed within a channel, and the channel is dammed by one or more stoppers. The dammed segment is filled and then caused or allowed to cure. The stoppers are then removed from their initial positions and moved along the channel. If one runs out of channel before the desired length of linear lighting is achieved, a second piece of channel is abutted to the previous segment of channel, the PCB is laid into it, and a segment is dammed, filled, and cured. The process continues iteratively until the desired length is achieved or more channel is required. The PCB may initially be cut to the full desired length and applied to the channel piecewise as needed.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
B29C 70/68 - Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers
B29C 70/72 - Encapsulating inserts having non-encapsulated projections, e.g. extremities or terminal portions of electrical components
An under-counter lighting system places a light-guide panel (LGP) or a set of LGPs under a countertop, or another such work surface, in order to backlight it. Specifically, a base layer is secured to a support, such as a cabinet. The base layer includes a support layer and a number of support posts attached to the support layer. An LGP layer includes the LGP or LGPs. Each of the LGPs has openings that correspond to positions of the support posts, such that the LGPs receive the support posts through their thicknesses. A countertop is secured to the tops of the support posts and may have a depending lip or other such feature sufficient to hide the base layer and the LGP layer. The resulting light, usually at least partially transmitted through the countertop itself, can serve as ambient light, task light, or accent light, depending on the installation.
A linear luminaire having high ingress protection includes a light-generating assembly and a channel. The light-generating assembly is an elongate, self-contained, sealed optical assembly that includes all elements necessary to generate light and to direct, focus, or modify the generated light in a particular way. Typically, the light-generating assembly would include an outer optical element and a light source positioned within a cavity of the body of the light-generating assembly. The outer optical element may be a lens, diffuser, or other such element. The light source may be a strip of LED linear lighting, a string of connected LED modules, or any other suitable device. The light-generating assembly may optionally include a second optical element, such as a lens or diffuser, that is supported within the body. The ends of the body of the light-generating assembly may be sealed by fitted endcaps, by polymeric resin, or by other means.
F21V 31/00 - Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
A voltage-regulating drive circuit for an LED luminaire is disclosed. The drive circuit includes one or several series of LED light engines. A voltage source with a regulator is connected to the series of LED light engines to forward-bias the light engines. The circuit also includes a driver integrated circuit, which may drive the series of LED light engines using, e.g., pulse-width modulation (PWM). The circuit also includes a feedback circuit connected to the cathode end of the series of LED light engines. The feedback circuit receives a remainder voltage and creates a feedback output signal that upregulates or downregulates the regulator of the voltage source to keep a minimum operating voltage on the driver integrated circuit and to compensate for variations in forward voltages among LED light engines in the series.
H05B 45/10 - Controlling the intensity of the light
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H05B 45/355 - Power factor correction [PFC]; Reactive power compensation
H05B 45/56 - Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to LED life; Protective circuits involving measures to prevent abnormal temperature of the LEDs
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
H05B 45/18 - Controlling the intensity of the light using temperature feedback
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
H05B 45/34 - Voltage stabilisation; Maintaining constant voltage
H05B 47/24 - Circuit arrangements for protecting against overvoltage
H05B 45/14 - Controlling the intensity of the light using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED modules
A linear luminaire includes a channel with a bottom and sidewalls that arise from opposite sides of the bottom. A printed circuit board (PCB) including a number of LED light engines is mounted in the channel, and may be mounted on stand-offs away from the bottom of the channel. A mounting bracket is connected to an underside of the channel bottom. The linear luminaire also includes a base that can serve as a raceway for wires and cable. The base also has a bottom and sidewalls, and attaches releasably to the channel by means of cooperating engaging structures on the mounting bracket of the channel and portions of the sidewalls of the base.
F21S 4/20 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21Y 113/10 - Combination of light sources of different colours
The disclosure relates to methods for connecting encapsulated linear lighting to power, including the use of through-hole mounting into flexible encapsulated linear lighting, and the creation of overmolds to protect electrical connections. The disclosure also relates to linear luminaires having channels that accommodate overmolds and allow electrical cables to exit the encapsulated linear lighting in desired, and controllable, directions.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
A channel system that includes a first channel section, a second channel section, and a hinge joint between the first and second channel sections is disclosed. The hinge joint allows the first channel section to fold against the second channel section for storage and shipping of the channel system. In one embodiment, the hinge joint itself includes a hinge member that extends between the two channel sections and bends hingedly to allow movement and two intermediate endcaps, which cap the channel sections on either side of the hinge joint. The hinge joint may be designed to “snap back” to a fully extended position. Mechanical securement structure may be added to the first channel section and the second channel section to improve force and retention during the “snap back” movement.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 19/00 - Fastening of light sources or lamp holders
F21V 17/02 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages with provision for adjustment
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
A drive circuit for an LED luminaire is disclosed. The drive circuit includes one or several series of LED light engines. A voltage source with a regulator is connected to the series of LED light engines to forward-bias the light engines. The circuit also includes an integrated circuit driver, which may drive the series of LED light engines using, e.g., pulse-width modulation (PWM). The circuit also includes a feedback circuit connected to the cathode end of the series of LED light engines. The feedback circuit receives a remainder voltage and creates a feedback output signal that upregulates or downregulates the regulator of the voltage source to keep a minimum operating voltage on the integrated circuit driver and also to compensate for variations in forward voltages among LED light engines in the series. A switching element, such as a bipolar junction transistor, protects the driver from high voltages.
A linear luminaire includes a channel with a bottom and sidewalls that arise from opposite sides of the bottom. The channel has an upper compartment and a lower compartment, the sidewalls being of a shape and extent such that at opposite ends of the channel, the upper compartment overhangs the lower compartment in a longitudinal direction. An elongate, rigid printed circuit board (PCB) is mounted in the upper compartment of the channel, aligned along the longitudinal direction, the PCB extending to each of the opposite ends of the channel in the upper compartment and having one or more LED light engines mounted thereon. The PCB may be mounted on stand-offs, such that it is above the bottom of the channel and defines the boundary between the upper and lower compartments. The overhung upper compartment creates a cableway space when two linear luminaires are abutted end-to-end or are adjacent.
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Methods for controlling power consumption and temperature in an LED luminaire are disclosed. The LED luminaire has one or more sets of LED light engines disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB), some or all of which are activated in response to an instruction or set of instructions. The instruction or set of instructions are processed to derive an indication of power consumption for each of the one or more sets of LED light engines. Power allocations for the one or more sets of LED light engines are adjusted to meet targets. This can be done by, e.g., ramping up or down the duty cycle of active sets of LED light engines by a uniform factor until the targets are met. Temperature control methods similarly ramp down the duty cycle of active sets of LED light engines uniformly over time if the measured temperature of the PCB exceeds limits.
H05B 45/355 - Power factor correction [PFC]; Reactive power compensation
H05B 45/56 - Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to LED life; Protective circuits involving measures to prevent abnormal temperature of the LEDs
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
H05B 45/18 - Controlling the intensity of the light using temperature feedback
Channels and channel covers for linear lighting are disclosed. The channels have an upper compartment for linear lighting and a lower compartment that may be used as a raceway, to engage parts, and for rear entry of wires. Endcaps for the channels may engage the lower compartment. Cover-lenses for linear lighting channels are also disclosed. The cover-lenses may include diffusing material and implement a thickness gradient in order to maximize the amount of diffusing material where the emitted light intensity is expected to be greatest. Diverging Fresnel features may be superimposed on the thickness gradient in order to counteract any converging effect of the thickness gradient and cause emitted light to spread more evenly.
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 3/10 - Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings characterised by coatings
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Channels and channel covers for linear lighting are disclosed. The channels have an upper compartment for linear lighting and a lower compartment that may be used as a raceway, to engage parts, and for rear entry of wires. Endcaps for the channels may engage the lower compartment. Cover-lenses for linear lighting channels are also disclosed. The cover-lenses may include diffusing material and implement a thickness gradient in order to maximize the amount of diffusing material where the emitted light intensity is expected to be greatest. Diverging Fresnel features may be superimposed on the thickness gradient in order to counteract any converging effect of the thickness gradient and cause emitted light to spread more evenly.
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
F21V 3/10 - Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings characterised by coatings
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
A flexible cover for a linear lighting channel is described, as are enclosures and luminaires using this kind of flexible cover. The flexible cover has sufficient flexibility to be bent or coiled to a bend radius of 6 inches (15.2 cm) or smaller, and can thus be coiled for shipping and uncoiled for installation. Typically, the cover is made of a polymer that is at least translucent. Covers may be made in various shapes, including lens and prism shapes, and channels may be made with sidewalls that make complementary shapes in order to engage with and retain the covers.
A linear luminaire is disclosed. The linear luminaire includes a channel, in which a strip of linear lighting is disclosed. The strip of linear lighting may have an individual optic positioned over each LED light engine. A set of louvers is provided. The set of louvers is arranged such that an individual louver is positioned over each one of the LED light engines. The individual louvers are generally cylindrical in shape. The individual louvers are connected by a web or platform that carries engaging structure allowing the set of louvers to snap or slide into the channel. The channel is covered with a channel cover, which has edges that extend out over at least a portion of the channel sidewalls, making it more difficult for dust and other foreign matter to enter the channel. The channel cover may be transparent.
F21V 11/08 - Screens not covered by groups , , or using diaphragms containing one or more apertures
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
F21V 17/10 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening
F21V 29/70 - Cooling arrangements characterised by passive heat-dissipating elements, e.g. heat-sinks
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Encapsulated linear lighting with improved light diffusion is disclosed. The encapsulated linear lighting includes a channel and a long narrow strip of printed circuit board (PCB) with light engines disposed off-center on the PCB. The PCB is installed along a bottom inner surface of a sidewall of the channel so that the light engines are adjacent a bottom of the channel. The encapsulated linear lighting includes a covering that encapsulates and protects the PCB.
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
25.
Output stabilization of mixed color temperature LED lighting systems
Methods and systems for controlling compound ramps in LED luminaires and lighting circuits are disclosed. In a compound ramp, the light output of one set of LED light engines increases while the light output of another set of LED light engines decreases. During such a ramp, the methods and systems may control the total light output to keep it relatively constant. In some embodiments, the methods and systems may also control the color of the emitted light maintain ideal color characteristics.
A flexible cover for a linear lighting channel is described, as are enclosures and luminaires using this kind of flexible cover. The flexible cover has sufficient flexibility to be bent or coiled to a bend radius of 6 inches (15.2 cm) or smaller, and can thus be coiled for shipping and uncoiled for installation. Typically, the cover is made of a polymer that is at least translucent. Covers may be made in various shapes, including lens and prism shapes, and channels may be made with sidewalls that make complementary shapes in order to engage with and retain the covers.
Optical systems for linear lighting, particularly linear lighting that is installed in a channel, are disclosed, as are light fixtures that use these optical systems. The optical systems have multiple optical elements, usually a first lens adapted to be positioned close to a strip of linear lighting installed in a channel, and a second lens adapted to be positioned farther from the strip of linear lighting. In some cases, the first optical element may be a diffuser. The two optical elements are optically aligned with one another such that light from the first optical element reaches the second optical element. The multiple optical elements may be adapted to physically support one another, and to engage with structure provided by the channel for securing a cover. Some optical systems may be adapted to compensate for variations in the color or intensity of the emitted light.
F21K 9/27 - Retrofit light sources for lighting devices with two fittings for each light source, e.g. for substitution of fluorescent tubes
F21K 9/69 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction - Details of refractors forming part of the light source
H05B 45/10 - Controlling the intensity of the light
Optical systems for linear lighting, particularly linear lighting that is installed in a channel, are disclosed, as are light fixtures that use these optical systems. The optical systems have multiple lenses, usually a first lens adapted to be positioned close to a strip of linear lighting installed in a channel, and a second lens adapted to be positioned farther from the strip of linear lighting. The two lenses are optically aligned with one another such that light from the first lens reaches the second lens. The two lenses may, e.g., form an Abbe condenser lens system. In some embodiments, diffusing features may be integrated into one or both lenses to effect light mixing. The multiple lenses may be adapted to physically support one another, and to engage with structure provided by the channel for securing a cover.
F21K 9/69 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction - Details of refractors forming part of the light source
F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
F21V 3/06 - Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings characterised by the material
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
Interchangeable driver systems including at least a driver and a receptacle are disclosed. The receptacle provides a compartment, space, or other connection point for a power input as well as connecting structure that releasably and interchangeably connects to the driver. The driver has complementary electrical and mechanical connecting structure. The electrical and mechanical connections between the driver and the receptacle are such that when a mechanical connection between them is made, an electrical connection is also made. The receptacle may take the form of an enclosure that surrounds a substantial portion of the driver, or it may take the form of a short base with a socket that receives a connecting portion of the driver.
An electrical gang box adapted for use with drivers is disclosed. The electrical gang box includes a main compartment with a front opening sized and adapted to accept an electrical control and structure around the front opening to secure the electrical control within the front opening and within the main compartment. The electrical gang box also includes a lower compartment that extends below the main compartment, is set back from the front of the main compartment and is open to the main compartment along an upper portion. The gang box may also include one or more pairs of rails disposed on opposite interior walls. In such cases, a divider panel is sized to slide into and extend between the rails to divide the junction box. Multiple-gang boxes with these features are also disclosed.
Lighting circuits using LED light engines and strips of linear lighting using these circuits are described. The lighting circuits are designed to produce different levels of light output at least in part using onboard components. In some embodiments, the circuit contains several current-setting elements, such as resistors, which are coupled to their own terminals such that the light output of the lighting circuit is determined by which of the terminals are connected to power. In other embodiments, a transistor in the lighting circuit may be adapted to allow or prevent current flow in the circuit based on a control signal applied to its gate. The circuit thus has separate power and control signal lines, and an external device, such as a pulse-width modulation signal generator, may be applied to the control signal line to modulate the light output.
F21S 4/24 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape of ribbon or tape form, e.g. LED tapes
F21V 23/04 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Optical systems for linear lighting, particularly linear lighting that is installed in a channel, are disclosed, as are light fixtures that use these optical systems. The optical systems have multiple lenses, usually a first lens adapted to be positioned close to a strip of linear lighting installed in a channel, and a second lens adapted to be positioned farther from the strip of linear lighting. The two lenses are optically aligned with one another such that light from the first lens reaches the second lens. The two lenses may, e.g., form an Abbe condenser lens system. In some embodiments, diffusing features may be integrated into one or both lenses to effect light mixing. The multiple lenses may be adapted to physically support one another, and to engage with structure provided by the channel for securing a cover.
F21K 9/69 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction - Details of refractors forming part of the light source
F21V 5/04 - Refractors for light sources of lens shape
F21V 3/06 - Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings characterised by the material
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
Lighting circuits and strips of linear lighting that can accept either a lower voltage or a higher voltage are disclosed. In the lighting circuit, a repeating block including LED light engines and current-setting elements is divided into two sub-blocks. Terminals are provided that allow the sub-blocks to be connected to voltage and ground in various ways. When the two sub-blocks are connected electrically in parallel with one another, the lighting circuit accepts the lower voltage; when the two sub-blocks are connected electrically in series with one another, the lighting circuit accepts the higher voltage. Circuitry that automatically detects the applied voltage and switches between series and parallel configurations may be included in some embodiments.
H05B 45/46 - Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] - Details of LED load circuits with an active control inside an LED matrix having LEDs disposed in parallel lines
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
A weather-resistant junction box is disclosed. The junction box includes a back panel and a number of sidewalls arising from the back panel to create an enclosure with an open face. A removable panel is constructed and arranged to cover and close the open face. A cap with an overhang extends over the top of the enclosure, extending out and down over the top portions of its sidewalls. Internally, the enclosure is divided by one or more partitions into a driver compartment and two or more connection compartments. Each of the connection compartments includes at least one opening, or a knock-out for the opening. All of the openings or knock-outs for all of the connection compartments may be located in the same panel of the junction box.
Connectors for linear lighting are disclosed. These connectors are adapted to electrically connect two strips of linear lighting, or a single strip of linear lighting and an appropriate number of wires. At least the portions of the connectors that accept the strips of linear lighting have sloped ramps that provide strain relief to the strips of linear lighting. Additionally, pivoting connectors that allow their sides to rotate relative to one another are disclosed.
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H01R 4/38 - Clamped connections; Spring connections using a clamping member acted on by screw or nut
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
H01R 11/09 - Individual connecting elements providing two or more spaced connecting locations for conductive members which are, or may be, thereby interconnected, e.g. end pieces for wires or cables supported by the wire or cable and having means for facilitating characterised by the type of the connecting locations on the individual element or by the type of the connections between the connecting locations and the conductive members the connecting locations being identical
H01R 11/03 - Individual connecting elements providing two or more spaced connecting locations for conductive members which are, or may be, thereby interconnected, e.g. end pieces for wires or cables supported by the wire or cable and having means for facilitating characterised by the type of the connecting locations on the individual element or by the type of the connections between the connecting locations and the conductive members
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
H01R 27/02 - Coupling parts adapted for co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts for simultaneous co-operation with two or more counterparts
F21V 21/005 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips for several lighting devices in an end-to-end arrangement, i.e. light tracks
H01R 4/36 - Conductive members located under tip of screw
Methods for making encapsulated linear lighting with opaque ends are disclosed. Linear lighting is placed in a polymeric channel, and the channel is filled with a resin in order to encapsulate the linear lighting. In order to prevent leaks, the channel is dammed at both ends of the linear lighting with stoppers. The channel has interior engaging features, such as grooves or ridges, that engage with complementary features on the sidewalls of the stoppers to form a seal between the channel and the stoppers. The resin within the channel is caused or allowed to cure. The stoppers are moved back from the cured mass to form a gap. An opaque resin may be poured into the channel and spills into the gap to coat the top and end face or faces of the linear lighting. Once all resin layers are cured, the stoppers are removed from the channel.
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 15/01 - Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts
Optical systems for linear lighting, particularly linear lighting that is installed in a channel, are disclosed, as are light fixtures that use these optical systems. The optical systems have multiple optical elements, usually a first lens adapted to be positioned close to a strip of linear lighting installed in a channel, and a second lens adapted to be positioned farther from the strip of linear lighting. In some cases, the first optical element may be a diffuser. The two optical elements are optically aligned with one another such that light from the first optical element reaches the second optical element. The multiple optical elements may be adapted to physically support one another, and to engage with structure provided by the channel for securing a cover. Some optical systems may be adapted to compensate for variations in the color or intensity of the emitted light.
F21K 9/69 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction - Details of refractors forming part of the light source
H05B 45/10 - Controlling the intensity of the light
Methods for making encapsulated linear lighting are disclosed. In these methods, linear lighting is placed in a polymeric channel, and the channel is filled with a resin in order to encapsulate the linear lighting. In order to prevent leaks, the channel is dammed at both ends of the linear lighting with stoppers. The channel has interior engaging features, such as grooves or ridges, that engage with complementary features on the sidewalls of the stoppers to form a seal between the channel and the stoppers. The resin within the channel is caused or allowed to cure, and once cured, the stoppers are removed from the channel.
Channel systems adapted to diffuse light are disclosed. The channels include a bottom and a pair of sidewalls. The interior surfaces of the sidewalls are free from inward projections or ridges that would prevent light from linear lighting installed in the channel from reaching the cover. In some cases, the sidewalls may bend inwardly to capture and engage the cover. In various embodiments, the cover may be a diffuser, a lens, or a prism. In some cases, the bottom of the channel may be sloped or angled to direct the light from linear lighting installed on it.
F21V 21/35 - Supporting elements displaceable along a guiding element with direct electrical contact between the supporting element and electric conductors running along the guiding element
F21V 21/002 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips making direct electrical contact, e.g. by piercing
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Multi-purpose channels are disclosed. These channels include sidewalls and a bottom, which may be either modular or of single-piece construction. An outwardly-extending flange is removably connected to at least one sidewall, allowing the channel to be mounted flush in a wall or converted for mounting in another fashion.
F21V 21/35 - Supporting elements displaceable along a guiding element with direct electrical contact between the supporting element and electric conductors running along the guiding element
F21V 21/002 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips making direct electrical contact, e.g. by piercing
F21V 15/01 - Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Junction boxes and partitions for junction boxes are disclosed. The junction boxes have a central area for installation of a driver or another such component and at least one wrap-around compartment in which wire connections can be made. In many cases, the junction box may have two wrap-around compartments, often mirror images of one another, that provide separate spaces for high- and low-voltage wire connections. The interior walls or partitions that create the compartments may be carried by and arise from the base of a junction box, or they may be carried by a separate piece that inserts over the driver, fully encloses or caps it, and also carries partition portions to create fully-divided compartments when used in combination with a junction box base that has no partitions of its own.
Modular channels are disclosed. The channels include a pair of sidewalls and a channel bottom. The pair of sidewalls and the channel bottom are separate, modular, and connected at or proximate to the sidewall bottoms by complementary engaging structures carried by the parts. In some cases, an intermediate member may be placed in the joints between the bottom and the sidewalls. The intermediate member may be made of plastic or rubber, and typically has a constant cross section. It may be a tube or have a round or ellipsoid cross section. The sidewalls may have flanges for flush-mounting the channel in a wall or similar structure. The sidewalls and bottom may carry various channels for alignment with other channels or mounting on other structures.
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
F21V 15/01 - Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts
F21V 21/002 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips making direct electrical contact, e.g. by piercing
F21V 21/35 - Supporting elements displaceable along a guiding element with direct electrical contact between the supporting element and electric conductors running along the guiding element
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
Junction boxes and partitions for junction boxes are disclosed. The junction boxes have a central area for installation of a driver or another such component and at least one wrap-around compartment in which wire connections can be made. In many cases, the junction box may have two wrap-around compartments, often mirror images of one another, that provide separate spaces for high- and low-voltage wire connections. The interior walls or partitions that create the compartments may be carried by and arise from the base of a junction box, or they may be carried by a separate piece that inserts over the driver, fully encloses or caps it, and also carries partition portions to create fully-divided compartments when used in combination with a junction box base that has no partitions of its own.
Assemblies are disclosed that allow a driver to be mounted in association with an electrical gang box. In one embodiment, the gang box has an opening in a bottom panel. The driver has a flange that is larger than the opening and a body that is smaller than the opening. The driver is inserted through the opening so that the flange rests on the interior surface of the bottom panel with at least a majority of the body of the driver extending outside of the gang box. In another embodiment, the gang box has an opening in a side or rear panel and an adapter mounts the driver outside of the gang box. These assemblies allow for the use of low-voltage and other types of electrical components while leaving space in the gang box for conventional electrical elements, such as switches and dimmers.
F21V 7/28 - Reflectors for light sources characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings, e.g. dichroic reflectors characterised by coatings
Connectors for linear lighting are disclosed. These connectors include one side with a slot adapted to accept a strip of linear lighting. The other side may have either another slot for a second strip of linear lighting, if two strips of linear lighting are to be electrically connected end-to-end, or a set of terminal blocks for connecting the strip of linear lighting to wires, such as a set of power leads. The slot has a set of contacts, spaced from one another, that make physical contact with solder pads or other such electrical connecting structures on the linear lighting. The terminal blocks have conductive cages to make contact with the wires. Both the set of contacts in the slot and pressor members in the cages are driven into engagement by sets of adjustable positioning members that bear on them.
An in-ground channel for linear lighting is disclosed. In the channel, two upright sidewalls are spaced apart by a bottom. Each of the sidewalls has an inwardly-extending upper support flange proximate to an upper end. The inwardly-extending upper support flanges are aligned with one another on respective sidewalls. A shelf is mounted between the two upright sidewalls at a position below the inwardly-extending support flanges. The shelf divides the in-ground channel into an upper section and a lower section. The upper section houses linear lighting and the lower section provides a raceway. The channel has only a single mounting flange attached to one of the two sidewalls at a position level with the bottom. The channel typically also includes a cover adapted to engage the upper support flanges. The shelf may be removable, mounted via a pair of inwardly-extending lower support flanges, for access to the lower section.
F21S 8/02 - Lighting devices intended for fixed installation of recess-mounted type, e.g. downlighters
F21V 33/00 - Structural combinations of lighting devices with other articles, not otherwise provided for
F21V 21/02 - Wall, ceiling, or floor bases; Fixing pendants or arms to the bases
F21V 17/16 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by deformation of parts of the lighting device; Snap action mounting
F21V 15/01 - Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts
F21W 111/02 - Use or application of lighting devices or systems for signalling, marking or indicating, not provided for in groups for roads, paths or the like
LED simulated neon with a reinforcing member is disclosed. The simulated neon has a flexible covering with a translucent upper portion and an opaque lower portion. At least the lower portion is filled with a transparent, flexible material. A channel is formed in the transparent, flexible material. Linear lighting is provided in the channel, along with a reinforcing member. The reinforcing member is shaped and oriented such that it can bend in the primary bending plane of the simulated neon but provides strain relief and at least partially restricts or interferes with bending in other planes. The reinforcing member may, for example, have a rectangular cross-section, wider than it is thick. It may be made of plastic or metal, and its thickness may vary depending on the material of which it is made.
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
An elongate, flexible printed circuit board (PCB) has a central section that carries LED light engines and other components, and a pair of wings, one on each side of the central section, adjacent to the central section. The wings carry adhesive to secure the PCB to a substrate, and may be separated from the central section in some cases by fold or score lines. The LED light engines may be positioned on a first side of the PCB and electrically connected to one or more components on a second side of the PCB. Taken together, the wings may have the same width as the central section, or they may have a greater width.
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
Linear lighting is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a narrow, elongate printed circuit board (PCB). A plurality of LED light engines are disposed on the PCB and are electrically connected to it. The PCB is divided physically and electrically into repeating blocks, which are physically in series with one another and electrically in parallel. A pair of conductors extends the entire length of the linear lighting. Each of the conductors has a service loop corresponding to the position of each of the cut points. A covering encapsulates the PCB and the pair of conductors. The service loops in the conductors provide for additional length of conductor when the linear lighting is cut at a cut point, so that the linear lighting can be connected to power.
H05B 33/08 - Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources
F21K 9/20 - Light sources comprising attachment means
F21S 4/20 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports
F21S 4/24 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape of ribbon or tape form, e.g. LED tapes
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
51.
Printed circuit board and component arrangements for linear LED lighting
Printed circuit board (PCB) arrangements for linear lighting are disclosed. In one embodiment, an elongate, flexible PCB carries light-emitting diode (LED) light engines on one side of the PCB and components on the other. The components may be, e.g., resistors, current controllers, color controllers, or network interfaces. In another embodiment, two PCBs, each with components mounted on a single side, are connected together electrically and mechanically to function as one. In yet another embodiment, an elongate, flexible PCB has a central section that carries LED light engines and other components, and a pair of wings, one on each side of the central section. The wings carry adhesive to secure the PCB to a substrate.
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
A power and control assembly is disclosed. An LED driver is sized and adapted to fit within a single compartment of an electrical gang box. The driver has a groove or channel, and an electrical element, such as a switch, is sized to fit within the groove.
Junction boxes for enclosing and making electrical connections to LED drivers are disclosed. The junction boxes include a bottom or base and a cover. Dividers arising from the base divide the junction box into high-voltage and low-voltage compartments. A cut-out open at the top of each divider allows drivers to be placed in a junction box without having to pull wires through holes or openings. Typically, the base is open along one long sidewall, with the cover being L-shaped to complete the enclosure. Various mounting mechanisms are disclosed for securing drivers within junction boxes.
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
H02G 3/08 - Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
F21V 29/83 - Cooling arrangements characterised by passive heat-dissipating elements, e.g. heat-sinks the elements having apertures, ducts or channels, e.g. heat radiation holes
F21V 17/12 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by screwing
F21V 31/00 - Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
H02G 15/10 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes
H05K 5/00 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
Linear lighting using light-emitting diode (LED) light engines is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with a number of LED light engines disposed on it. A light guide is disposed on the PCB adjacent to the LED light engines. The light guide accepts the light from the LED light engines in a first location and is arranged to emit the light at a desired position that is spaced from the first location. By lengthening the optical path, the light guide may spread the emitted light and provide a more uniform appearance for the linear lighting.
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
F21K 9/61 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction using light guides
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
F21V 3/02 - Globes; Bowls; Cover glasses characterised by the shape
F21K 9/66 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction - Details of globes or covers forming part of the light source
Junction boxes and partitions for junction boxes are disclosed. The junction boxes have a central area for installation of a driver or another such component and at least one wrap-around compartment in which wire connections can be made. In many cases, the junction box may have two wrap-around compartments, often mirror images of one another, that provide separate spaces for high- and low-voltage wire connections. The interior walls or partitions that create the compartments may be carried by and arise from the base of a junction box, or they may be carried by a separate piece that inserts over the driver, fully encloses or caps it, and also carries partition portions to create fully-divided compartments when used in combination with a junction box base that has no partitions of its own.
A strip of linear lighting with distributed power conversion is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a flexible PCB. The flexible PCB is divided into repeating blocks, which are arranged electrically in parallel with one another between power and ground. Each repeating block includes power conversion and conditioning circuits. A plurality of LED light engines are connected to the outputs of the power conversion and conditioning circuits, electrically in series with one another. The power conversion and conditioning circuits typically include at least a full-bridge rectifier, and a filter may be connected to each of the LED light engines. A pair of conductors run the length of the PCB adjacent to it and are connected to each of the repeating blocks. A flexible, transparent covering surrounds the PCB and pair of conductors.
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H05B 33/08 - Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
Linear lighting using light-emitting diode (LED) light engines is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with a number of LED light engines disposed on it. A light guide is disposed on the PCB adjacent to the LED light engines. The light guide accepts the light from the LED light engines in a first location and is arranged to emit the light at a desired position that is spaced from the first location. By lengthening the optical path, the light guide may spread the emitted light and provide a more uniform appearance for the linear lighting.
F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21K 9/61 - Optical arrangements integrated in the light source, e.g. for improving the colour rendering index or the light extraction using light guides
Junction boxes for enclosing and making electrical connections to multiple LED drivers are disclosed. The junction boxes include a bottom or base and a cover. Dividers arising from the base divide the junction box into high-voltage and low-voltage compartments. A cut-out open at the top of each divider allows drivers to be placed in a junction box without having to pull wires through holes or openings. Typically, the base is open along two sidewalls, with the cover being U-shaped to complete the enclosure. Various mounting mechanisms are disclosed for securing drivers within junction boxes.
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 29/83 - Cooling arrangements characterised by passive heat-dissipating elements, e.g. heat-sinks the elements having apertures, ducts or channels, e.g. heat radiation holes
F21V 31/00 - Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
F21V 17/12 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by screwing
H02G 15/10 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes
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.
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
F21V 21/005 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips for several lighting devices in an end-to-end arrangement, i.e. light tracks
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
A strip of linear lighting with distributed power conversion is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a flexible PCB. The flexible PCB is divided into repeating blocks, which are arranged electrically in parallel with one another between power and ground. Each repeating block includes power conversion and conditioning circuits. A plurality of LED light engines are connected to the outputs of the power conversion and conditioning circuits, electrically in series with one another. The power conversion and conditioning circuits typically include at least a full-bridge rectifier. A pair of conductors run the length of the PCB adjacent to it and are connected to each of the repeating blocks. A flexible, transparent covering surrounds the PCB and pair of conductors.
H05B 37/00 - Circuit arrangements for electric light sources in general
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H05B 33/08 - Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
A power and control assembly is disclosed. An LED driver is sized and adapted to fit within a single compartment of an electrical gang box, such as a two-gang box. An alternating current (AC) dimmer or other component is installed in an adjacent compartment. The AC dimmer supplies its output to the LED driver, which converts the AC power to an appropriate direct current (DC) power for LED lighting fixtures. The LED driver is typically recessed into the compartment, and is covered by a switch or another control element. In some cases, the switch may be a mechanical dummy selected for its aesthetic or fascial characteristics. In other cases, the switch or control element may be functional. With similar multiple-gang boxes, a number of drivers may be installed in the gang box and switches may allow both dimming and zone control.
A strip of linear lighting with distributed power conversion is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a flexible PCB. The flexible PCB is divided into repeating blocks, which are arranged electrically in parallel with one another between power and ground. Each repeating block includes power conversion and conditioning circuits. A plurality of LED light engines are connected to the outputs of the power conversion and conditioning circuits, electrically in series with one another. The power conversion and conditioning circuits typically include at least a full-bridge rectifier, and a filter may be connected to each of the LED light engines. A pair of conductors run the length of the PCB adjacent to it and are connected to each of the repeating blocks. A flexible, transparent covering surrounds the PCB and pair of conductors.
H05B 37/00 - Circuit arrangements for electric light sources in general
H05B 33/08 - Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
H05K 1/18 - Printed circuits structurally associated with non-printed electric components
A strip of linear lighting with distributed power conversion is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a flexible PCB. The flexible PCB is divided into repeating blocks, which are arranged electrically in parallel with one another between power and ground. Each repeating block includes power conversion and conditioning circuits. A plurality of LED light engines are connected to the outputs of the power conversion and conditioning circuits, electrically in series with one another. The power conversion and conditioning circuits typically include at least a full-bridge rectifier. A pair of conductors run the length of the PCB adjacent to it and are connected to each of the repeating blocks. A flexible, transparent covering surrounds the PCB and pair of conductors.
H05B 41/30 - Circuit arrangements in which the lamp is fed by pulses, e.g. flash lamp
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
H05B 33/08 - Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
A power and control assembly is disclosed. An LED driver is sized and adapted to fit within a single compartment of an electrical gang box, such as a two-gang box. An alternating current (AC) dimmer or other component is installed in an adjacent compartment. The AC dimmer supplies its output to the LED driver, which converts the AC power to an appropriate direct current (DC) power for LED lighting fixtures. The LED driver is typically recessed into the compartment, and is covered by a switch or another control element. In some cases, the switch may be a mechanical dummy selected for its aesthetic or fascial characteristics. In other cases, the switch or control element may be functional. With similar multiple-gang boxes, a number of drivers may be installed in the gang box and switches may allow both dimming and zone control.
Junction boxes for enclosing and making electrical connections to LED drivers are disclosed. The junction boxes include a bottom or base and a cover. Dividers arising from the base divide the junction box into high-voltage and low-voltage compartments. A cut-out open at the top of each divider allows a driver to be placed in a junction box without having to pull wires through holes or openings. Typically, the base is open along the top and along at least a portion of one sidewall, with the cover being L- or U-shaped to complete the enclosure. Various mounting mechanisms are disclosed for securing drivers within junction boxes. Embodiments that can house several drivers or components within one junction box are disclosed, as are weather- and water-resistant embodiments.
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
H05K 5/00 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
H02G 15/10 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes
F21V 17/12 - Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by screwing
F21V 31/00 - Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
F21V 29/83 - Cooling arrangements characterised by passive heat-dissipating elements, e.g. heat-sinks the elements having apertures, ducts or channels, e.g. heat radiation holes
A connector for light-emitting diode (LED) strip light is disclosed. The connector has a cavity with conductive longitudinal and transverse pins that, when the connector is assembled with an LED strip light in a cavity within the housing of the connector, penetrate the insulation of the strip light to make electrical contact with the strip light's conductors. The connector also includes gasket seals and a removable portion that exposes the cavity. The removable portion may include a window to expose any LEDs that may be within the housing of the connector.
H01R 4/24 - Connections using contact members penetrating or cutting insulation or cable strands
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
H01R 13/52 - Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
Connectors for connecting light emitting diode (LED) strip light to power are disclosed. The connectors include a housing with a first opening sized to accept an LED strip light and a second opening for a power cord or electrical leads. The openings open into an interior cavity with an internal vertical barrier to separate power and ground leads. Gripping structures proximate to the first opening retain the strip light. A gasket or gaskets within the connector seal the connector from the elements. The second opening may carry a strain relief molded to the power cord. Additionally, an adapter or nipple may be provided to connect the connector to conduit.
H01R 4/18 - Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation effected solely by twisting, wrapping, bending, crimping, or other permanent deformation by crimping
H01R 4/12 - Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation effected solely by twisting, wrapping, bending, crimping, or other permanent deformation by twisting
H01R 13/504 - Bases; Cases composed of different pieces different pieces being moulded, cemented, welded, e.g. ultrasonic, or swaged together
H01R 13/508 - Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by clip or spring
H01R 13/512 - Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by screw or screws
H01R 13/58 - Means for relieving strain on wire connection, e.g. cord grip
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21V 19/00 - Fastening of light sources or lamp holders
F21V 23/00 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
F21V 31/00 - Gas-tight or water-tight arrangements
F21S 4/22 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports flexible or deformable, e.g. into a curved shape
A joint support and strain relief that provides support for the entire joint between a power cord and a strip light is disclosed. The joint support and strain relief is comprised of a cuff portion that defines a curved interior channel designed to cradle a power cord and a contiguous spade portion in the form of a thin, flat, generally rectangular plate. The strip light is typically secured to the spade portion with adhesive. The spade portion may have sidewalls to assist with the alignment of the strip light, and those sidewalls may have attached to their upper edges horizontally inwardly-extending tabs parallel to and above the bottom of the spade portion. The joint support and strain relief may also have tabs with holes or openings that allow the piece to be attached to a substrate.
H01R 13/58 - Means for relieving strain on wire connection, e.g. cord grip
H01R 43/26 - Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for engaging or disengaging the two parts of a coupling device
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
A waterproof adapter that connects strip light to a standard power cord, such that the power cord can then be routed to a power source. The adapter has an internal vertical barrier to separate power and ground leads, and gripping structures that help to retain the strip light within the adapter. A gasket or gaskets within the adapter seal the adapter from the elements.
H01R 31/06 - Intermediate parts for linking two coupling parts, e.g. adapter
H01R 13/58 - Means for relieving strain on wire connection, e.g. cord grip
F21V 21/005 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips for several lighting devices in an end-to-end arrangement, i.e. light tracks
H01R 33/94 - Holders formed as intermediate parts for linking a counter-part to a coupling part
H01R 13/512 - Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by screw or screws
H01R 13/52 - Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
A modular lighting system for use with shelving and a variety of other applications. A power track is adapted to be disposed within an upright support of a shelving unit. A power plug with vertically-aligned prongs inserts through existing openings in the upright support to reach conductors within the power track. The power plug has connecting structure to connect to a cable, and frangible portions that allow the cable to exit in a number of positions. Light bars carry the same connecting structures, can connect to the cable and snap together to extend continuously across a shelf. A second power track and second plug may provide power to the power track within the upright. The second plug carries the same connecting structure as the other components.
H01R 12/00 - Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, specially adapted for printed circuits, e.g. printed circuit boards [PCB], flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures, e.g. terminal strips, ; Coupling devices specially adapted for printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures; Terminals specially adapted for contact with, or insertion into, printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures
H01R 25/14 - Rails or bus-bars constructed so that the counterparts can be connected thereto at any point along their length
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
A waterproof adapter that connects strip light to a standard power cord, such that the power cord can then be routed to a power source. The adapter has an internal vertical barrier to separate power and ground leads, and gripping structures that help to retain the strip light within the adapter. A gasket or gaskets within the adapter seal the adapter from the elements.
A wiring and connection management system is disclosed. The system comprises a set of power distribution members that are attached to a substrate and are connected together, forming a power grid to distribute power across the substrate. The members include a number of connectors disposed at regular intervals along their lengths. Corresponding sets of cables and connectors on the substrate convey power from the members to areas on the substrate where power is desired. The substrate may be, for example, a shelving unit. The system provides a robust, flexible source of power that is easily installed with minimal training and is also easily maintained.
An LED lighting kit comprises an extrusion, an LED strip, a tapered wedge, and a mounting clip. The clip is sized and shaped to springably engage ledges in a first channel of the extrusion when the strip is mounted. In one aspect, two extrusions are butted end-to-end and are aligned by inserting the tapered wedge into the first channel of each extrusion prior to butting them together. The extrusion contains a second channel that houses the LED strip. A translucent diffuser is springably inserted into the second channel, thereby diffusing light that is emitted by the LED strip. End caps are inserted into the ends of the extrusion to complete the light kit. At least one of the end caps has a hole to admit electrical wires to power the LED strip.
F21S 4/00 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources
F16B 7/00 - Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections
F16B 12/36 - Jointing of furniture or the like, e.g. hidden from exterior using pegs, bolts, tenons, clamps, clips, or the like for metal furniture parts using separate pins, dowels, or the like
F16B 13/00 - Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose
F21K 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
F21V 21/005 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips for several lighting devices in an end-to-end arrangement, i.e. light tracks
An LED connector half (500) mates with a wire connector half (300) to connect a light strip (100) comprising LEDs (115) to a pair of wires. The LED half includes a hinged top (700) with an opening (705) to admit an end LED on the strip when the top is closed, securing the strip to the connector half without blocking the LED. The wire half secures a pair of wires (315) to terminals (305) in a housing (310). The wire half is inserted into the LED half, connecting the Electrodes and terminals. The halves are held together by a tongue (320) and socket (800). In another aspect, a connector (1100) joins two light strips by capturing the LEDs at the ends of the strips in openings (1110) and clamping conductive electrodes (1140) against the strips by closing a lid (1105) against the body, without obscuring LED light output.
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.
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
F21V 21/005 - Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips for several lighting devices in an end-to-end arrangement, i.e. light tracks
F21V 23/06 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being coupling devices
F21S 4/28 - Lighting devices or systems using a string or strip of light sources with light sources held by or within elongate supports rigid, e.g. LED bars
H01R 25/16 - Rails or bus-bars provided with a plurality of discrete connecting locations for counterparts
F21Y 103/10 - Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
An LED lighting kit comprises an extrusion (300), an LED strip (100), a tapered wedge (1500), and a mounting clip (1200). The extrusion itself may have a recessed linear groove of sufficient width and depth to seat the LED strip. The clip is sized and shaped to springably engage ledges (320) in a first channel (310) of the extrusion when the strip is mounted. In one aspect, two extrusions are butted end-to-end and are aligned by inserting the tapered wedge into the first channel of each extrusion prior to butting them together. The extrusion contains a second channel (315) that houses the LED strip. A translucent diffuser (900) is springably inserted into the second channel, thereby diffusing light that is emitted by the LED strip.
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