Adapter for electrically connecting lighting equipment to an electrical track, including such adapter and a lighting system for the electrical track

Abstract

The invention relates to an adapter (1) for connecting a lamp to a track with a mains phase and comprising: a housing (2), at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1) linked to the housing (2), and a cover (4) partially covering the housing (2) and having at least one opening (8.1). The cover (4) is displaceable so as to be selectively placed in one of the following positions: a position in which the at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1) at least partially extends through the at least one opening (8.1), a position in which the cover (4) covers the at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to an electrical track having a mains phase. Furthermore, the invention relates to a lighting system comprising an electrical track having a mains phase and at least one such adapter. Background Art

[0002] EP3217090A1 proposes a lighting system comprising an electrical track with three mains phases and an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to the electrical track so that the lighting device can receive power from the mains. The adapter supports a lighting device, such as a spotlight. The electrical track can hold several adapters and therefore several lighting devices, which are arranged in a row, for example. In order to enable an operator to adjust the number and position of adapters on the electrical track, the adapter includes a mechanism configured to automatically pull out a contact when the adapter is fitted in the electrical track so that the contact is electrically connected to the three mains phases.

[0003] However, the known adapter presents some disadvantages and limitations. First, it has a relatively complex structure and it requires many components, thereby increasing the cost and footprint of the lighting system. Moreover, the automatic connection of the contacts to the three mains phases limits the flexibility of the electrical connection possibilities. Summary of the invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned drawbacks and limitations, the present invention aims to improve existing implementations of lighting systems and adapters. The object of the present invention is to enable the connection of an adapter to a selected one of the mains phases while providing both a simpler structure for electrically connecting the adapter to the electrical track and a more flexible arrangement of the adapter in the electrical track.

[0005] This object is achieved by the embodiments defined in the independent claim. Advantageous implementations are further defined in the dependent claims.

[0006] One embodiment of the present invention provides an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to an electrical track having a mains phase, the adapter comprising at least:

[0007] -case

[0008] - at least one spring loaded connector, the at least one spring loaded connector being linked to the housing, and

[0009] a cover configured to partially cover the housing, the cover having at least one opening,

[0010] wherein the cover is displaceable relative to the housing so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions:

[0011] - a position in which the at least one spring-loaded connector extends at least partially through the at least one opening,

[0012] - wherein the cover covers the location of the at least one spring loaded connector.

[0013] Therefore, when the adapter is assembled with the electrical track, the operator can choose to connect or disconnect the spring loaded connector with the mains phase. Moreover, the spring loaded connector can provide a simple direct connection with the conductor (e.g. wire) providing the mains phase in the electrical track.

[0014] In this application, the term "connect" and its derivatives refer to electrical connections.

[0015] In various specific implementations, the adapter may include at least:

[0016] - a first spring-loaded connector linked to the housing and a second spring-loaded connector linked to the housing,

[0017] - wherein the cover has at least two openings,

[0018] wherein the cover is displaceable relative to the housing so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions:

[0019] - a first connection position, wherein the first spring-loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, while the cover covers the second spring-loaded connector, and

[0020] - a second connection position, wherein the second spring loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, while the cover covers the first spring loaded connector.

[0021] Thus, the operator may select between the two to which mains phase the adapter will be connected when assembled with the electrical track. Furthermore, the first spring loaded connector and the second spring loaded connector may provide a simple direct connection to a conductor providing a mains phase in the electrical track.

[0022] In various implementations, the adapter may further include a third spring-loaded connector linked to the housing.

[0023] Wherein the cover is displaceable relative to the housing so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions:

[0024] - a first connection position, wherein the first spring-loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, while the cover covers the second spring-loaded connector and the third spring-loaded connector,

[0025] - a second connection position, wherein the second spring loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, while the cover covers the first spring loaded connector and the third spring loaded connector, and

[0026] - a third connection position, wherein the third spring loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, while the cover covers the first spring loaded connector and the second spring loaded connector.

[0027] Thus, an operator can select which mains phase the adapter will be connected to when assembled with the electrical track. Furthermore, the spring loaded connector may provide a simple direct connection to a conductor providing a mains phase in the electrical track.

[0028] In some implementations, the or each spring loaded connector (ie, the first spring loaded connector, the second spring loaded connector, and / or the third spring loaded connector) may extend at least partially out of the respective opening.

[0029] In some implementations, the or each spring-loaded connector (i.e., the first spring-loaded connector, the second spring-loaded connector, and / or the third spring-loaded connector) is resiliently movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the spring-loaded connector i) being in its retracted position when it is covered by the cover, ii) being in its extended position when it is extended through the respective opening or, as the case may be, out of the respective opening. In the extended position, the respective spring-loaded connector may contact one of the mains phases.

[0030] In various implementations, the at least two openings may include at least a first opening and a second opening and preferably a third opening, the first opening and the second opening and the third opening when present being arranged on the cover such that:

[0031] - in the first connection position, the first spring-loaded connector can at least partially extend through the first opening,

[0032] - in the second connected position, the second spring-loaded connector can at least partially extend through the second opening, and

[0033] - Preferably, in the third connected position, the third spring-loaded connector is at least partially extendable through the third opening.

[0034] In various embodiments, at least one of the first spring-loaded connector, the second spring-loaded connector, and when present, the third spring-loaded connector may be linked to a first lateral region of the shell, the remaining spring-loaded connector is linked to a second lateral region of the shell positioned opposite the first lateral region of the shell, and the cover is configured to partially cover the first lateral region and the second lateral region of the shell.

[0035] Thus, the arrangement of the spring-loaded connectors on opposite first and second lateral regions of the housing, respectively, makes it possible to design a small, compact housing.

[0036] In various embodiments, the cover is displaceable relative to the housing so as to be selectively placed in a disconnected position, wherein the cover covers the at least one spring-loaded connector, including the first spring-loaded connector, the second spring-loaded connector, and the third spring-loaded connector when respectively present.

[0037] Such a disconnect position thus enables an operator to safely assemble the adapter with the electrical track before selecting a connection position for allowing power from the mains phase to be supplied to the lighting device.

[0038] In various specific embodiments, the cover can be displaced relative to the shell when translating between the following positions: between the at least two positions, preferably between the first connection position and the second connection position, and more preferably between the first connection position, the second connection position and the third connection position.

[0039] Therefore, displacement of the cover can be easily operated and the design of the adapter can be simple.

[0040] In some implementations, the translation may be linear. Alternatively, the translation may be curvilinear.

[0041] In some implementations, the cover may be displaced relative to the housing over a distance in the range of 30 mm to 200 mm. The distance may be adjusted depending on the size and position of the electrical tracks, in particular the lines in which the mains phases are conducted.

[0042] In various specific implementations, the housing may have a guide portion configured to guide the displacement of the cover when the cover is linked to the housing, the guide portion preferably being formed by the outer surface of the housing. The guide portion may thus define a sliding link when the cover is displaced translationally relative to the housing.

[0043] In some implementations, the cover may have only two openings and may reach only two connection positions when translated, with one spring-loaded connector (e.g., the third spring-loaded connector) i) disposed on the opposite side of the housing relative to the other spring-loaded connectors (e.g., the first spring-loaded connector and the second spring-loaded connector), and ii) disposed symmetrically relative to the other spring-loaded connectors. In such implementations, the cover may be displaced by removing it from the housing, rotating it 180 degrees, and reinstalling it on the housing so as to reach the third connection position through the same opening for one of the other spring-loaded connectors (e.g., the first spring-loaded connector or the second spring-loaded connector).

[0044] Thus, the connected position and the disconnected position can be reached partly via a rotation of the cover relative to the housing and partly via another displacement, for example a translation, of the cover relative to the housing.

[0045] In some embodiments, at least two of the openings can be linked by a linking hole so that the at least two openings and the linking hole form a single large opening that can receive a first spring-loaded connector, a second spring-loaded connector, and a third spring-loaded connector in at least two different positions that respectively define the at least two openings.

[0046] In various implementations, the adapter may further include an additional spring loaded connector and an additional opening, the additional spring loaded connector linked to the housing, wherein the additional spring loaded connector may at least partially extend through the additional opening at least when the at least one spring loaded connector partially extends through the at least one opening;

[0047] Preferably the additional spring loaded connector may at least partially extend through the additional opening when at least any one of the first spring loaded connector, the second spring loaded connector and, when present, the third spring loaded connector partially extends through the respective opening.

[0048] Thus, an additional spring loaded connector can connect the adapter to a neutral or ground conductor line within the electrical track.

[0049] In some embodiments, the additional opening may be formed by a slot extending along all of the at least two openings, preferably along the first opening, the second opening and the third opening.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first, second, third, and / or additional spring-loaded connectors may be soldered directly onto a printed circuit board (PCB) of a control circuit (eg, AC / DC driver) housed in the housing.

[0051] In various implementations, the housing can be elongated along a longitudinal direction, and the housing preferably has a substantially tubular or prismatic shape extending along the longitudinal direction.

[0052] Such an elongated housing can thus be inserted into an elongated electrical track.

[0053] In some implementations, the elongated housing can have a substantially rectangular cross-section (eg, a square cross-section) across the longitudinal direction.

[0054] In some implementations, the housing and the cover can be designed such that an outer face of the housing is flush with an outer face of the cover.

[0055] In various specific implementations, the adapter may further include a support portion configured to support at least one lighting device, the support portion preferably being integral with the housing, most preferably being in one piece with the housing.

[0056] Thus, the support portion enables attachment of the lighting device to the adapter, for example to the housing.

[0057] In some implementations, at least one lighting device can include a lamp or an LED light source.

[0058] In some implementations, the support portion can be arranged in an end region of the housing that is located opposite the cover relative to the housing.

[0059] In various implementations, the housing can include control circuitry for controlling power to the lighting device.

[0060] In some implementations, the control circuit can include a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0061] In some implementations, the housing can be hollow to accommodate functional components of the housing (such as control circuitry) as appropriate.

[0062] In various implementations, the cover may be removably linked to the housing, the housing preferably having a guide portion configured to guide the displacement of the cover when the cover is linked to the housing.

[0063] Thus, the cover can be removed from the housing, for example for mounting it in a reverse arrangement when the cover has a substantially symmetrical shape. The cover can be selectively placed in one of the connected positions, or in the disconnected position as the case may be, when the cover is linked to the housing, rather than when the cover is removed from the housing.

[0064] In some implementations, the cover can substantially have the shape of a U. The three wings of the U can be arranged to contact a complementary surface of the housing.

[0065] In various implementations, the cover can have a substantially symmetrical shape.

[0066] Thus, the cover may be arranged on the housing in two different configurations, namely a first configuration and a second configuration opposite to the first configuration.

[0067] In various implementations, the cover may have a substantially asymmetrical shape, and the cover preferably has a flange that protrudes away from the housing when the cover partially covers the housing.

[0068] The cover may thus increase the safety of the lighting system, as the flange may prevent an operator from assembling the cover into the electrical track in a wrong way.

[0069] Another embodiment of the invention provides a lighting system comprising an electrical track having a mains phase and at least one adapter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one adapter has an engagement element configured to engage the electrical track so as to attach the at least one adapter to the electrical track; and wherein the electrical track can define a chamber for receiving the at least one adapter, the at least one adapter being at least partially, preferably completely, inserted into the chamber.

[0070] Hence, the lighting system has a simple design which allows a safe and flexible assembly of the adapter and the electrical track, in particular enabling an operator to choose which mains phase the adapter will be connected to when assembled with the electrical track. Additionally, the lighting system may have a compact design.

[0071] In some implementations, the engagement element can enable a snap-fit ​​attachment of the adapter to the electrical track.

[0072] In some implementations, the electrical track and the cover can be designed so that when the adapter is inserted into the chamber, the outer face of the electrical track can be flush with the outer face of the cover.

[0073] In various implementations, at least one adapter may be of the above type comprising a cover having an asymmetric shape, and the electrical track may have a shape complementary to the asymmetric shape of the cover, the electrical track preferably having a recessed area having a shape complementary to the flange of the cover.

[0074] Thus, the cover can only fit in the electrical track in one defined orientation.

[0075] In some implementations, the electrical track may be made of an electrically insulating material and it may independently hold several electrical conductors (preferably conductive lines) independently connected to respective mains phases.

[0076] It should be noted that all devices, elements, parts, components, units and devices described in this application can be implemented in any technically applicable combination of specific implementation forms. All steps performed by various entities described in this application and functions described as being performed by various entities are intended to mean that the corresponding entities are suitable for or are configured to perform the corresponding steps and functions. Even in the following description of specific implementations and embodiments, the specific functions or steps to be performed by external entities are not reflected in the description of the specific detailed elements of the entity performing the specific steps or functions, but it should be clear to the technician that these methods and functions can be implemented in any technically applicable combination of specific implementation forms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0077] The above-described embodiments and implementations of the present invention will be further explained in the following description of specific implementations with respect to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0078] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of an adapter according to one implementation in a first connection position;

[0079] Figure 2 So with Figure 1 A slightly different angle shows the second connected position. Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a portion of an adapter;

[0080] Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2 and is shown in a third connection position Figure 2 A view of a portion of an adapter;

[0081] Figure 4 is similar to Figure 2 and shows the disconnected position Figure 2 A view of a portion of an adapter;

[0082] Figure 5 It is shown Figures 1 to 4 A schematic perspective view of a cover of an adapter;

[0083] Figure 6 It is shown Figures 1 to 4 A schematic perspective view of a housing of an adapter;

[0084] Figure 7 It is shown Figures 1 to 4 A schematic perspective view of the entire adapter;

[0085] Figures 8 to 9 is a schematic representation of a cover in an unfolded state, which defines Figures 1 to 5 Alternatives to the coverings;

[0086] Fig.10 is a schematic perspective view showing an adapter according to another specific implementation;

[0087] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A schematic enlarged perspective view of a cover of an adapter;

[0088] Fig.12 Yes Fig.10 A schematic front view of an adapter and a lighting system for an electrical track;

[0089] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 The lighting system is based on Fig.10 A schematic cross-sectional view taken along section plane XIII of ;

[0090] Figures 14 to 17 is a diagram similar to that shown in various steps for rearranging the cover on one of the adapters and rearranging the adapters in a row and then assembling them in the electrical track. Fig.10 Schematic perspective view of two adapters. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Figures 1 to 6 An adapter 1 is shown for electrically connecting a lighting device, not shown, to an electrical track, not shown, having three mains phases (usually designated L1 , L2, L3) and a neutral or ground phase (usually designated N).

[0092] The adapter 1 includes a housing 2 and a cover 4 that is configured to partially cover the housing 2 when the cover 4 is arranged on the housing 2 .

[0093] like Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG, the housing 2 may be elongated and have a substantially prismatic shape extending along the longitudinal direction X2. The housing 2 may have a substantially rectangular cross section across the longitudinal direction X2.

[0094] The adapter 1 may further comprise a support 3 configured to support a lighting device, not shown. The support 3 may be integral with the housing 2, preferably in one piece. The support 3 may be arranged in an end region of the housing 2, which is located opposite the cover 4 relative to the housing 2. The housing 2 may comprise a control circuit, not shown, such as an AC / DC driver, for controlling the power supply to the lighting device. The housing 2 may be hollow in order to accommodate the control circuit.

[0095] The cover 4 may have a substantially U-shaped shape. The three wings of the U-shape may be arranged to contact complementary planar surfaces of the housing 2, such as Figures 1 to 6The housing 2 and the cover 4 can be designed such that the outer surface 2.1 of the housing 2 is flush with the outer surface 4.1 of the cover 4.

[0096] The adapter 1 further comprises a first spring-loaded connector 6.1, a second spring-loaded connector 6.2 and a third spring-loaded connector 6.3. Figure 3 and Figure 6 The position of the third spring-loaded connector 6.3 is only schematically shown in FIG. The adapter 1 also includes an additional spring-loaded connector 6.4. Figures 1 to 6 In the example of , the additional spring loaded connector 6 . 4 is a fourth spring loaded connector. The first, second, third and additional spring loaded connectors 6 . 1 to 6 . 4 can be linked to the housing 2 .

[0097] The first, second, third and / or additional spring-loaded connectors 6 . 1 to 6 . 4 may be soldered directly onto a not shown printed circuit board (PCB) of a control circuit (eg an AC / DC driver) housed in the housing 2 .

[0098] The first spring-loaded connector 6.1 and the additional spring-loaded connector 6.4 may be linked to a first lateral region of the housing 2 (at Figure 6 The second spring-loaded connector 6.2 and the third spring-loaded connector 6.3 may be linked to a second lateral area of ​​the housing 2 (on the right side). Figure 6 The left side of the housing 2), the second lateral region is positioned opposite to the first lateral region of the housing 2. The cover 4 can be configured to partially cover those first and second lateral regions of the housing 2.

[0099] like Figure 5 As shown, the cover 4 may have a first opening 8.1, a second opening 8.2, a third opening 8.3 and an additional opening 8.4. Figures 1 to 6 In the example of , the additional opening 8.4 is a fourth opening. The additional opening 8.4 defines an additional opening relative to the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2 and the third opening 8.3. Figure 5 As can be seen in the figure, the additional opening 8.4 is formed by a slot extending along the entirety of the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2 and the third opening 8.3.

[0100] Figure 1 A first connection position is shown, wherein a portion of the first spring loaded connector 6.1 extends through and out of the first opening 8.1, and a portion of the additional spring loaded connector 6.4 extends through and out of the additional opening 8.4. In the first connection position, the adapter 1 can be electrically connected to a first mains phase (such as L1) via the first spring loaded connector 6.1.

[0101] Figure 2 A second connection position is shown, wherein a portion of the second spring loaded connector 6.2 extends through and out of the second opening 8.2, and a portion of the additional spring loaded connector 6.4 extends through and out of the additional opening 8.4. In the second connection position, the adapter 1 can be electrically connected to a second mains phase (such as L2) via the second spring loaded connector 6.2.

[0102] Figure 3 A third connection position is shown, wherein a portion of the third spring loaded connector 6.3 extends through and out of the third opening 8.3, and a portion of the additional spring loaded connector 6.4 extends through and out of the additional opening 8.4. In the third connection position, the adapter 1 can be electrically connected to a second mains phase (such as L3) via the third spring loaded connector 6.3.

[0103] Figure 4 The disconnected position is shown, in which the cover 4 covers the first, second, third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4. In the disconnected position, the adapter 1 is not electrically connected to any mains phase or neutral conductor N, because all of the spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 are covered by the cover 4 (and are therefore shielded).

[0104] The first to third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 are movable between a retracted position (not shown) and an extended position ( Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 6 1 to 8.4). Each of the first to third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 may be i) in its retracted position when it is covered by the cover 2, and ii) in its extended position when it extends through and, in the embodiment shown, extends out of a respective one of the first to third and additional openings 8.1 to 8.4. In the extended position, the respective spring-loaded connector 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 or 6.4 may contact one of the three mains phases L1, L2, L3 or the neutral conductor N. For example, the first to third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 may comprise a spring or an equivalent elastically deformable element, and may be made of or comprise stainless steel, spring brass, phosphor bronze or beryllium copper.

[0105] The cover 4 can be displaced relative to the housing 2 so as to be selectively placed in the first connection position, the second connection position, the third connection position ( Figures 1 to 3 ) in one of them. In addition, the cover 4 can be displaced relative to the housing 2 so as to be selectively placed in the disconnected position ( Figure 4 )middle.

[0106] exist Figures 1 to 6In the example of , the cover 4 can be displaced relative to the housing 2 i) between the first connection position to the third connection position and the disconnection position and ii) when translated along the longitudinal direction X2. The cover 4 can be displaced relative to the housing 2 over a distance of 80 mm.

[0107] The housing 2 may have a guide portion 2.4, which is configured so that when the cover 4 is Figures 1 to 6 The configuration of the guide portion 2.4 guides the displacement of the cover 4 when linked to the housing 2. The guide portion 2.4 may be formed by the outer surface of the housing 2 and defines the sliding link.

[0108] The cover 4 can be removably linked to the housing 2. In other words, the housing 2 and the cover 4 can be detached from each other, such as in Figure 5 and Figure 6 For example, the cover 4 can be snap-fitted onto the housing 2 in a detachable manner.

[0109] The cover 4 may basically have the following Figure 5 However, the first to third and additional openings 8.1 to 8.4 may be as Figure 5 As in the example, they are arranged in an asymmetrical configuration in the cover 4.

[0110] In service, an operator can manually displace the cover 4 in order to place it in a selected position (i.e. Figures 1 to 3 The first connection position, the second connection position or the third connection position or Figure 4 When the cover 4 is displaced, the spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 can extend from a respective one of the first to third and additional openings 8.1 to 8.4. Then, the selected position is reached. The adapter 1 is thus placed in a configuration in which a control circuit, not shown, can be electrically connected to a mains phase selected among L1, L2 and L3 and / or to a neutral conductor N via a respective one of the first to third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4.

[0111] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of the cover 4 in an unfolded state, which defines Figures 1 to 4 An alternative to cover 4.

[0112] Figure 8 The cover 4 may provide an alternative to the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2, the third opening 8.3 and the additional opening 8.4. Figure 8 The cover 4 is significantly different from Figures 1 to 5 of the cover 4, since the additional opening 8.4 is composed of three individual openings 8.41, 8.42 and 8.43.

[0113] Fig. 9The cover 4 may provide another alternative for providing the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2, the third opening 8.3 and the additional opening 8.4. Figure 8 The cover 4 is significantly similar to Figures 1 to 5 of the cover 4, since the additional opening 8.4 is formed by a slot extending along the entirety of the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2 and the third opening 8.3.

[0114] exist Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In the example of FIG. 4 , the first opening 8.1, the second opening 8.2 and the third opening 8.3 may be offset in the longitudinal direction X4 and in the transverse direction Y4 of the cover 4. Such offset positions help define the first connection position, the second connection position and the third connection position.

[0115] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the cover 4 may have markings or signs “L1”, “L2”, “L3”, “N”, “OFF”, which indicate to the operator (e.g. visually) the first to third connection positions ( Figures 1 to 3 ) and disconnect position ( Figure 4 ) in position so that the operator can appropriately connect the first to third and additional spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 to the mains phases L1-L3 and the neutral conductor N.

[0116] Fig.10 and Fig.11 An adapter 1 according to another specific implementation is shown. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The adapter 1 is similar to Figures 1 to 9 The adapter 1 can therefore be applied to Figures 1 to 9 Adapter 1, except for the obvious differences mentioned below. Figures 1 to 9 The components of the adapter 1 have the same or similar structure or function Fig.10 and Fig.11 The elements of the adapter 1 are given the same reference numerals.

[0117] Fig.10 and Fig.11 The adapter 1 is mainly different from Figures 1 to 9 Adapter 1, because Fig.10 and Fig.11 The cover 4 may have a substantially asymmetrical shape, while Figures 1 to 9 The cover 4 in the embodiment may basically have a symmetrical shape (eg a U-shape).

[0118] Specifically, Fig.10 and Fig.11The cover 4 may have a flange 10 which, when the cover 4 partially covers the housing 2 (herein when the cover 4 is placed in one of the first, second and third connection positions or in the disconnected position), protrudes away from the housing 2. The flange 10 may be formed by two longitudinal wings 10.1 and 10.2 which are perpendicular to each other and thus define a cross section having a substantially L-shaped shape.

[0119] In addition, Figures 10 to 13 The specific implementation and Figures 1 to 8 There are similarities between the specific implementations of, for example, because: the support portion 3 can support the lighting device 12, such as Fig.10 . The lighting device 12 may include a lamp or an LED light source. The support 3 may be integral with the housing 2, preferably in one piece. The support 3 may be arranged in an end region of the housing 2, which is located opposite the cover 4 relative to the housing 2.

[0120] Fig.12 and Fig.13 A lighting system 101 is shown, the lighting system comprising Fig.10 and Fig.11 The adapter 4 and the electrical track 102. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The cover 4 can increase the safety of the lighting system 101 because the flange 10 can prevent the operator from assembling the cover 4 on the housing 2 in a wrong manner.

[0121] Furthermore, the adapter 1 may have an engagement element, not shown, which is configured to engage the electrical track 102 in order to attach the adapter 1 to the electrical track 102. For example, the engagement element may enable a snap-fit ​​attachment of the adapter 1 to the electrical track 102.

[0122] The electrical track 102 may be made of an electrically insulating material. The electrical track 102 may independently hold the three mains phases represented herein through conductive wires or lines L1, L2, and L3, which are individually connected to the respective mains phases and are Fig.13 The electrical track 102 may also hold a conductive wire N which is connected to neutral or ground and Fig.13 Symbolization in.

[0123] Furthermore, the electrical track 102 may define a chamber 104 for receiving the adapter 1. Fig.13 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the adapter 1 can be fully inserted into the chamber 104 .

[0124] exist Figures 10 to 13In the example of , the electrical track 102 may have a shape that is complementary to the asymmetrical shape of the cover 4. The electrical track 102 may have a recessed area 102.10 that has a shape that is complementary to the L-shape of the flange 10 of the cover 4.

[0125] The electrical track 102 and the cover 4 may be designed such that when the adapter 1 is inserted into the chamber 104 , the outer face 102 . 1 of the electrical track 102 is flush with the outer face 4 . 1 of the cover 4 .

[0126] In service, before the housing 2 is inserted into the electrical track 102, the cover 4 must be placed in the disconnected position (“OFF”), wherein the cover 4 covers all spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4 and blocks these spring-loaded connectors from contacting any conductor in the electrified track 102. After the adapter 1 is inserted into the electrical track 102, the cover 4 can be displaced in one of the first to third connection positions.

[0127] Figures 14 to 17 Schematically shows a method for rearranging the cover 4 on one of the adapters 1 and rearranging the adapters 1 in a row and then assembling them in a similar manner to Fig.12 and Fig.13 The electrical track 102 is not shown in the various steps of the electrical track Fig.10 Two adapters 1 of the type shown.

[0128] Fig.14 An initial step is shown, in which the adapter 1 has been disassembled from an electrical track similar to the electrical track 102 and is held aligned as in its assembled configuration in the electrical track. In this configuration, the lighting devices 12 are spaced apart from each other.

[0129] Fig.15 A subsequent step is shown, in which the cover 4 of one of the adapters 1 is removed from the housing 2 .

[0130] Fig.16 A subsequent step is shown, in which the removed cover 4 has been rotated 180 degrees about the vertical axis and then put back in place on the housing 2 (for example by snap-fitting). Thus, the adapter 1 has been modified. Fig.16 It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the flange 10 formed in the cover 4 of the modified adapter 1 is oriented opposite to the flange 10 of the other cover 4 .

[0131] In this configuration, the oppositely oriented flanges 10 prevent the modified adapter from being inserted into the electrical track. In other words, the rotated cover 4 ensures that when the modified adapter 1 is to be reinserted into the electrical track, the right mains phase remains selected.

[0132] Fig.17A subsequent step is shown, in which the modified adapter 1 is rotated by -180 degrees about the vertical axis, thus in the opposite direction to the rotation of the already rotated cover 4. Fig.17 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the two flanges 10 are oriented on the same side of the adapter 1. Thus, the adapter 1 can be inserted into the electrical track again. After insertion, the lighting devices 12 are close to each other.

[0133] Figures 14 to 17 Each adapter 1 may have two sets of spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4, each set being located on a respective longitudinal side of the adapter 1. In this way, Fig.17 The rotated adapter 1 in the embodiment can still contact the mains phase L1, L2, L3 or N in the electrical track.

[0134] In a lighting system comprising at least two adapters 1, the distance between two consecutive lighting devices 12 (e.g. two lamp heads) is defined by the length of the adapters 1. Fig.17 In the configuration, this distance can be minimum.

[0135] In a specific implementation not shown, an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to an electrical track having a mains phase may comprise:

[0136] -case,

[0137] a spring-loaded connector, for example similar to the first spring-loaded connector 6.1, which can be linked to the housing in place of the spring-loaded connectors 6.1 to 6.4, and

[0138] A cover which is designed to partially cover the housing and which has an opening, for example similar to the first opening 8.1, instead of the openings 8.1 to 8.4.

[0139] The cover is displaceable relative to the housing so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions:

[0140] - a position in which the spring-loaded connector extends at least partially through the opening; this position is similar to Figure 3 , and therefore the connection location for connecting the adapter to a mains phase (such as L1); and

[0141] - A position in which the cover covers the spring-loaded connector; this position is similar to Figure 4 , so it is the disconnected position.

[0142] In another embodiment not shown, an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to an electrical track having a mains phase may comprise two spring-loaded connectors, namely:

[0143] - a first spring loaded connector, which is linked to the housing, for example similar to the first spring loaded connector 6.1, and

[0144] - A second spring loaded connector linked to the housing, for example similar to the second spring loaded connector 6.2.

[0145] The cover may have two openings, for example similar to the first opening 8.1 and the second opening 8.2, respectively. The cover may be displaced relative to the housing so as to be at least selectively placed in at least one of the following positions:

[0146] a first connection position in which the first spring-loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening while the cover covers the second spring-loaded connector for connecting the adapter to a mains phase or neutral, and

[0147] - a second connection position, in which the second spring-loaded connector at least partially extends through the respective opening, with the cover covering the first spring-loaded connector, for connecting the adapter to another mains phase or neutral.

[0148] The cover can also be displaced relative to the housing so as to be placed in an off position (similar to Figure 4 .

[0149] In a variant of the implementation not previously shown, the adapter may also comprise an additional spring-loaded connector, for example similar to the additional spring-loaded connector 6 . 4 , and the cover may have an additional opening, for example similar to the additional opening 8 . 4 .

[0150] In yet another embodiment not shown, an adapter for electrically connecting a lighting device to an electrical track having a mains phase may be similar to Figures 1 to 6 The adapter 1 shown, in which the obvious difference is that the additional spring-loaded connector can be arranged in the top position of the housing and away from the cover, for example like EP3217090A1 Figure 1 When the cover cannot cover the additional spring-loaded connector, the additional spring-loaded connector can always contact the correspondingly arranged neutral line in the electrical track.

[0151] Preferably, the additional spring loaded connector is arranged in a middle, top position of the housing, and the electrical track is symmetrical so that the additional spring loaded connector can still contact a correspondingly arranged neutral wire after the housing is rotated 180 degrees relative to the electrical track.

[0152] The invention has been described in conjunction with various specific implementations, embodiments and aspects as non-limiting examples. However, other variations may be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art of practicing the claimed invention, based on a study of the present disclosure, the drawings and the claims. In the claims and in the specification, the words "comprise" or "comprising" do not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single element or other unit may fulfill the functions of several entities or items recited in a claim.

Claims

1. An adapter (1) for electrically connecting a lighting device (12) to an electrical track (102) having mains phases (L1, L2, L3), the adapter (1) comprising at least: - a housing (2), - at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1) linked to the housing (2), and a cover (4) which is configured to partially cover the housing (2), the cover (4) having at least one opening (8.1), The cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions: - a position in which the at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1) at least partially extends through the at least one opening (8.1), - wherein said cover (4) covers the location of said at least one spring-loaded connector (6.1).

2. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least: - a first spring-loaded connector (6.1) which is linked to the housing (2), and - a second spring-loaded connector (6.2) linked to the housing (2), The cover (4) has at least two openings (8.1-8.2), The cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions: - a first connection position, wherein the first spring-loaded connector (6.1) at least partially extends through the corresponding opening (8.1), while the cover (4) covers the second spring-loaded connector (6.2), and - a second connection position, wherein the second spring-loaded connector (6.2) at least partially extends through the corresponding opening (8.2), while the cover (4) covers the first spring-loaded connector (6.1).

3. The adapter (1) according to claim 2, further comprising a third spring-loaded connector (6.3) linked to the housing (2), The cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) so as to be selectively placed in at least one of the following positions: - a first connection position, wherein the first spring-loaded connector (6.1) at least partially extends through the corresponding opening (8.1), while the cover (4) covers the second spring-loaded connector (6.2) and the third spring-loaded connector (6.3), - a second connection position, wherein the second spring-loaded connector (6.2) at least partially extends through the corresponding opening (8.2), while the cover (4) covers the first spring-loaded connector (6.1) and the third spring-loaded connector (6.3), and - a third connection position, wherein the third spring-loaded connector (6.3) at least partially extends through the corresponding opening (8.3), while the cover (4) covers the first spring-loaded connector (6.1) and the second spring-loaded connector (6.2).

4. The adapter (1) according to claim 3, wherein the at least two openings comprise at least a first opening (8.1) and a second opening (8.2), the first opening and the second opening being arranged on the cover (4) such that: - in said first connection position, said first spring-loaded connector (6.1) at least partially extends through said first opening (8.1), - In the second connection position, the second spring-loaded connector (6.2) at least partially extends through the second opening (8.2).

5. An adapter (1) according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the first spring-loaded connector and the second spring-loaded connector is linked to a first lateral area of ​​the shell (2), and the remaining spring-loaded connector is linked to a second lateral area of ​​the shell (2) positioned opposite to the first lateral area of ​​the shell (2), and the cover (4) is configured to partially cover the first lateral area and the second lateral area of ​​the shell (2).

6. An adapter (1) according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the first spring-loaded connector, the second spring-loaded connector and the third spring-loaded connector is linked to a first lateral area of ​​the shell (2), and the remaining spring-loaded connectors are linked to a second lateral area of ​​the shell (2) positioned opposite to the first lateral area of ​​the shell (2), and the cover (4) is configured to partially cover the first lateral area and the second lateral area of ​​the shell (2).

7. An adapter (1) according to claim 3, wherein the cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) so as to be selectively placed in a disconnected position, wherein the cover (4) covers the at least one spring-loaded connector, including the first spring-loaded connector (6.1), the second spring-loaded connector (6.2) and the third spring-loaded connector (6.3) when respectively present.

8. The adapter (1) according to claim 3, wherein the cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) when translating between at least two of the first connection position, the second connection position and the third connection position.

9. The adapter (1) according to claim 3, further comprising an additional spring-loaded connector (6.4) and an additional opening (8.4), wherein the additional spring-loaded connector (6.4) is linked to the housing (2), wherein at least when the at least one spring-loaded connector partially extends through the at least one corresponding opening, the additional spring-loaded connector (6.4) at least partially extends through the additional opening (8.4).

10. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the housing (2) is elongated along a longitudinal direction (X2).

11. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the adapter (1) further comprises a support portion (3) configured to support at least one lighting device (12).

12. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the housing (2) comprises a control circuit for controlling power supply to the lighting device (12).

13. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cover (4) is removably linked to the housing (2).

14. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cover (4) has a symmetrical shape.

15. The adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cover (4) has an asymmetrical shape.

16. The adapter (1) according to claim 4, wherein: The at least two openings include at least a third opening (8.3).

17. The adapter (1) according to claim 16, wherein: The third opening (8.3), when present, is arranged on the cover (4) such that, in the third connection position, the third spring-loaded connector (6.3) at least partially extends through the third opening (8.3), while the cover (4) covers the first and second spring-loaded connectors (6.1, 6.2).

18. The adapter (1) according to claim 8, wherein: The cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) when translated between the first connection position and the second connection position.

19. The adapter (1) according to claim 8, wherein: The cover (4) is displaceable relative to the housing (2) when translated between the first connection position, the second connection position and the third connection position.

20. An adapter (1) according to claim 9, wherein the additional spring-loaded connector (6.4) extends at least partially through the additional opening (8.4) at least when any one of the first spring-loaded connector, the second spring-loaded connector and, when present, the third spring-loaded connector (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) partially extends through the corresponding opening.

21. The adapter (1) according to claim 10, wherein the housing (2) has a tubular or prismatic shape extending along the longitudinal direction (X2).

22. The adapter (1) according to claim 11, wherein the support portion (3) is integral with the housing (2).

23. The adapter (1) according to claim 11, wherein the support portion (3) is integral with the housing (2).

24. The adapter (1) according to claim 13, wherein the housing (2) has a guide portion (2.4) configured to guide the displacement of the cover (4) when the cover (4) is linked to the housing (2).

25. The adapter (1) according to claim 15, wherein the cover (4) has a flange (10) which protrudes away from the housing (2) when the cover (4) partially covers the housing (2).

26. A lighting system comprising an electrical track (102) having mains phases (L1, L2, L3) and at least one adapter (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one adapter (1) has an engagement element configured to engage the electrical track (102) in order to attach the at least one adapter (1) to the electrical track (102); and The electrical track (102) defines a chamber (104) for receiving the at least one adapter (1), wherein the at least one adapter (1) is at least partially inserted into the chamber (104).

27. The lighting system according to claim 26, wherein the cover (4) has an asymmetrical shape, and wherein the electrical track (102) has a shape complementary to the asymmetrical shape of the cover (4).

28. The lighting system according to claim 26, wherein said at least one adapter (1) is fully inserted into said chamber (104).

29. A lighting system according to claim 27, wherein the cover (4) has a flange (10), which protrudes away from the housing (2) when the cover (4) partially covers the housing (2), and wherein the electrical track (102) has a recessed area (102.10) having a shape complementary to the flange (10) of the cover (4).

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