Track lighting system

Abstract

The invention provides a track lighting system comprising an elongated system track, a first connector element, and an LED luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track; wherein the elongate system track extends along an elongate axis; wherein a first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire with the elongate system track, wherein the first connector element comprises a first luminaire connector and a first track connector; wherein the LED luminaire comprises a back plate facing the elongated system track when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system track, and a first luminaire track arranged in or on the back plate of the LED luminaire; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongate system track and is movable along the elongate system track.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a track lighting system, comprising an elongated system track and a luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track. The present invention also relates to the luminaire. Background Art

[0002] It is known that track lighting systems, in which track lighting devices (such as luminaires) are mounted on a track, provide great flexibility and adaptability, because the number of track lighting devices and / or the positioning of track lighting devices can be varied on the track. The track may also be referred to as a rail or a lighting rail. See, for example, EP3719394A1.

[0003] Track lighting systems are typically implemented in professional locations. Luminaires currently implemented in track lighting systems are mainly point light sources. A typical example of such a track lighting system is a retail environment with a plurality of spotlights on a lighting track, for example. The spotlights are mechanically and electrically connected to the lighting track and can be moved to a desired position on the lighting track.

[0004] However, a current trend in the lighting industry is to mount large area luminaires, such as light panels or long light strips, to the tracks of track lighting systems.Another trend is that track lighting systems are increasingly implemented in domestic environments, such as in living rooms and / or kitchens.

[0005] As track lighting systems become more popular and widespread also in the home market, there is a clear need to find safer and more ergonomic solutions and improvements in connecting track lighting equipment to the tracks of the track lighting system, especially for large area luminaires (such as, for example, light panels). Summary of the invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved track lighting system which at least alleviates the above mentioned problems and disadvantages. To this end the invention is set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims.

[0007] To this end, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a track lighting system, comprising an elongated system track, a first connector element, and an LED luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track; wherein the elongated system track extends along an elongated axis; wherein the first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the first connector element comprises a first luminaire connector and a first track connector; wherein the LED luminaire comprises a back panel facing the elongated system track when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system track, and a first luminaire track arranged in or on the back panel of the LED luminaire; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track. In addition, the track lighting system includes a second connector element; wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the second connector element includes a second luminaire connector and a second track connector; wherein the second track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; or wherein the LED luminaire includes a second luminaire track arranged in or on the back panel of the luminaire, and wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the second luminaire track and is movable along the second luminaire track

[0008] The track lighting system according to the invention comprises an elongated system track and an LED (light emitting diode) luminaire. Throughout the present application, the phrase luminaire may refer to an LED luminaire. The elongated system track may alternatively be expressed as an elongated rail, an elongated guide rail or an elongated rail track. The track may be considered as an electric track suitable for a track lighting system.

[0009] The elongated system rail is elongated (and extends) along an elongation axis. The elongation axis may alternatively be expressed as a length axis. The elongation axis may be straight and / or curved.

[0010] The LED luminaire is configured to be connected (electrically and mechanically) to the elongated system track. Thus, the LED luminaire is a track lighting luminaire. The LED luminaire can be positioned or moved to every position on the elongated system track (and the associated elongated axis). This adaptability and versatility is a common and known advantage of track lighting systems.

[0011] The present invention presents additional advantages in more ergonomically positioning the LED luminaire relative to the elongated system track of the track lighting system, especially when dealing with large area LED luminaires. The large area LED luminaire may be, for example, a panel luminaire or a light guide. In one embodiment, the LED luminaire is an LED panel. In other examples, the luminaire may be an elongated LED strip.

[0012] That is, the LED luminaire according to the present invention comprises a back plate facing the elongated system rail when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system rail, and a first luminaire track arranged in or on the back plate of the LED luminaire. In other words, the first luminaire track can be arranged at the back plate. Therefore, the LED luminaire (which is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail of the track lighting system) comprises the first luminaire track itself.

[0013] The back plate may alternatively be described as the back surface.The back plate may alternatively be described as the back side of the LED luminaire.

[0014] The track lighting system also includes a first connector element, which includes a first luminaire connector and a first track connector. The first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and can be moved along the first luminaire track, and the first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and can be moved along the elongated system track.

[0015] Because the first connector element not only comprises a first track connector for mechanically connecting the LED luminaire to the elongated system rail and for moving the LED luminaire along the elongated system rail, but also comprises a first luminaire connector that is mechanically connected to the first luminaire track and movable along the first luminaire track, the track lighting system according to the present invention enables the LED luminaire to have additional degrees of freedom relative to the elongated system rail when the LED luminaire is mechanically (and electrically) connected to a specific position on the elongated system rail. Thus, the LED luminaire can still be adjusted in position and / or orientation when connected to the elongated system rail without moving the connection point connecting the LED luminaire and the elongated system rail. In other words, the first luminaire track enables the LED luminaire to be moved along the first luminaire track even when the LED luminaire (by means of the first track connector of the first connector element) is mechanically fixed to a specific position on the elongated system rail.

[0016] Such an embodiment may be advantageous in providing more robustness and control to the LED luminaires of a track lighting system, particularly for large area luminaires that require a secure connection to the elongated system track, but may also benefit from increased adaptability relative to the elongated system track.

[0017] A large-area luminaire, such as an LED luminaire according to the present invention, may, for example, comprise a planar light exit window opposite to a back plate, wherein the planar light exit window comprises a light exit window surface area, wherein the light exit window surface area is at least four times, preferably at least eight times, larger than the surface area of ​​the elongated system track that the LED luminaire is covering when connected to said elongated system track.

[0018] Thus, in aspects, the LED luminaire may comprise a planar light exit window opposite to the back plate.The LED luminaire may comprise a light source, wherein the light source is configured to transmit light to the surrounding environment via the planar light exit window.

[0019] The luminaire may further comprise at least one additional light exit window, wherein the additional light exit window may be arranged on the back panel and / or on a side panel perpendicular to or transverse to the back panel, wherein the light source is configured to transmit light to the surrounding environment via the at least one additional light exit window.

[0020] In an alternative example, the LED luminaire may include a first track connector and / or a second track connector. Thus, in such an example, the first track connector and / or the second track connector may be an integral (albeit removable) part of the LED luminaire.

[0021] As described, the track lighting system includes a second connector element; wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the second connector element includes a second luminaire connector and a second track connector; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the second track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because the presence of the second connector element may provide a more secure connection between the LED luminaire and the elongated system track while still enabling additional degrees of freedom to adjust the LED luminaire relative to the elongated system track when the LED luminaire is mechanically and electrically connected to a specific position on the elongated system track, i.e., enabling the position and / or orientation of the LED luminaire to be adjusted when connected to the elongated system track. Alternatively, the wording "mechanically connected" may be formulated as "configured to be mechanically connected."

[0022] In an example, a track lighting system may include: a second luminaire track arranged in or on a back panel of the LED luminaire, wherein a first connector element may be mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track when engaged with the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track, respectively, and may be moved along the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track, respectively.

[0023] As described, the track lighting system includes a second connector element; wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the second connector element includes a second luminaire connector and a second track connector; wherein the LED luminaire includes a second luminaire track arranged in or on a back panel of the luminaire; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the second luminaire track and is movable along the second luminaire track; wherein the second track connector mechanically and electrically connects the luminaire to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track. Such an embodiment may be advantageous because the second connector element and the second luminaire track may provide a more secure connection between the LED luminaire and the elongated system track while still enabling the LED luminaire to adapt to the elongated system track with respect to the additional degree of adaptability when the LED luminaire is mechanically connected to a specific position on the elongated system track. Alternatively, the wording "mechanically connected" may be formulated as "configured to be mechanically connected".

[0024] In a related embodiment, the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track may be arranged symmetrically relative to each other relative to a symmetry plane perpendicular to the back plate. In a further related embodiment, the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track may be arranged in parallel on the back plate of the luminaire.

[0025] In a related embodiment, the first illuminator track and the second illuminator track may intersect each other on the back panel. In a related embodiment, the first illuminator track and the second illuminator track may extend at least partially along a circular path, a curved path, or an elliptical path. In a related embodiment, the first illuminator track and the second illuminator track may extend along a straight path.

[0026] The first illuminator track may extend, for example, between a first point and a second point on the backplane. The point may be understood as a position on the backplane or projected onto the backplane. The first point and the second point may define a first line on the backplane. The first line may follow a straight, curved, circular, elliptical, square, etc. path.

[0027] The second illuminator track may extend, for example, between a third point and a fourth point on the back panel. The third point and the fourth point may define a second line on the back panel. The second line may follow a straight, curved, circular, elliptical, square, etc. path.

[0028] The first connector element and the second connector element may be identical, for example of the same size.The first connector element and the second connector element may be interchangeable.

[0029] In one embodiment, a track lighting system according to the invention is provided, wherein the first luminaire track is arranged transversely to the elongated axis of the elongated system track; and / or wherein the second luminaire track is arranged transversely to the elongated axis of the elongated system track. In further embodiments, the first luminaire track is arranged perpendicularly to the elongated axis of the elongated system track; and / or wherein the second luminaire track is arranged perpendicularly to the elongated axis of the elongated system track.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first rail connector and / or the second rail connector may be snap-fit ​​into the elongated system rail.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first rail connector comprises a first rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first rail connector into position on the elongated system rail; and / or wherein the first luminaire connector comprises a first luminaire connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first luminaire connector into position on the first luminaire rail.

[0032] In one embodiment, the second rail connector includes a second rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the second rail connector into position on the elongated system rail; and / or wherein the second luminaire connector includes a second luminaire connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the second luminaire connector into position on the second luminaire rail.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track may be recessed in the back panel.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first illuminator track comprises a first slit embedded in the back panel of the illuminator, wherein the first illuminator connector is mechanically confined in the first slit of the first illuminator track; and / or wherein the second illuminator track comprises a second slit embedded in the back panel of the illuminator, wherein the second illuminator connector is mechanically confined in the second slit of the second illuminator track.

[0035] In aspects, the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track may include a rail, a groove, a conductive track. For example, the first connector element and / or the second connector element may engage with the rail so as to be movable along the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track. In aspects, the first luminaire track may include an anode and the second luminaire track may include a cathode. In aspects, the back plate may include a polygonal shape.

[0036] In aspects, when the first illuminator track and the second illuminator track do not intersect, the first illuminator track and / or the second illuminator track may be separated from each other by a distance D. The distance may be equal to at least one quarter of the shortest edge of the back plate. The distance is, for example, preferably 0.6 times the width of the illuminator, the width being defined by the back plate (or, if present, the width of the planar light exit window opposite the back plate). Thus, the first illuminator track may include an anode, and the second illuminator track may include a cathode.

[0037] In one embodiment, the track lighting system may include a third connector element, wherein the third connector element includes a third luminaire connector and a third track connector; wherein the third luminaire connector is mechanically connected to the first luminaire track and movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the third track connector is mechanically connected to the elongated system track and movable along the elongated system track.

[0038] In one embodiment, the track lighting system may include a third connector element, wherein the LED luminaire includes a third luminaire track arranged in or on the back panel; wherein the third connector element includes a third luminaire connector and a third track connector, wherein the third luminaire connector is mechanically connected to the third luminaire track and is movable along the third luminaire track; wherein the third track connector is configured to connect the luminaire to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first connector element and / or the second connector element may comprise respective controllable hinges, wherein the respective controllable hinges are configured to hinge the first luminaire connector and the first track connector relative to each other, and / or wherein the respective controllable hinges are configured to hinge the second luminaire connector and the second track connector relative to each other.

[0040] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved track lighting system which at least alleviates the above-mentioned problems and disadvantages. To this end, in a second aspect, the present invention provides: a track lighting system comprising an elongated system track, a first connector element, and an LED luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track; wherein the elongated system track extends along an elongated axis; wherein the first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the first connector element comprises a first luminaire connector and a first track connector; wherein the LED luminaire comprises a panel which at least partially faces the elongated system track when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system track, and a first luminaire track arranged in or on the panel of the LED luminaire; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and is movable along the elongated system track; wherein the panel is at least partially curved in three dimensions.

[0041] In one embodiment thereof, the first luminaire track extends at least partially along a curved path above the panel. In one embodiment thereof, the curved path comprises a first straight path portion and a second straight path portion, wherein a centerline of the first straight path portion is perpendicular to a centerline of the second straight path portion.

[0042] In various aspects, the track lighting system includes (i) a circular first illuminator track or (ii) a first illuminator track and a second illuminator track intersecting each other, wherein the LED illuminator can rotate about an axis A, wherein the axis A extends perpendicular to the back side of the LED illuminator, preferably can rotate at least 360 degrees.

[0043] Among other aspects, the present invention also provides an improved luminaire assembly (or kit of parts), wherein the luminaire assembly includes a track lighting system, the track lighting system including an elongated system track, a first connector element, and an LED luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track; wherein the elongated system track extends along an elongated axis; wherein the first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the first connector element includes a first luminaire connector and a first track connector; wherein the LED luminaire includes a back panel facing the elongated system track when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system track, and a first luminaire track arranged in or on the back panel of the LED luminaire; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track, and movable along a first luminaire track; wherein the first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and movable along the elongated system track, wherein the track lighting system comprises a second connector element; wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the second connector element comprises a second luminaire connector and a second track connector; wherein the second track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track and movable along the elongated system track; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and movable along the first luminaire track; or wherein the LED luminaire comprises a second luminaire track arranged in or on a back panel of the luminaire, and wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected.

[0044] Among other aspects, the present invention also provides an improved LED luminaire, which is suitable for connecting to an elongated system track extending along an elongated axis, wherein the LED luminaire includes a first connector element, a second connector element, a first luminaire track and a back plate; wherein the first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system track, wherein the first connector element includes a first luminaire connector and a first track connector; wherein when the LED luminaire is connected to the elongated system track, the back plate faces the elongated system track, wherein the first luminaire track is arranged in or on the back plate of the LED luminaire; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the first track connector wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system rail, wherein the second connector element comprises a second luminaire connector and a second rail connector; wherein the second rail connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail and movable along the elongated system rail; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire rail and movable along the first luminaire rail; or wherein the LED luminaire further comprises a second luminaire rail arranged in or on a back panel of the luminaire, and wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the second luminaire rail and movable along the second luminaire rail. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The invention will now be further explained with the aid of the schematic, non-limiting accompanying drawings:

[0046] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An embodiment of a track lighting system according to the invention is schematically depicted;

[0047] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An embodiment of a track lighting system according to the invention is schematically depicted;

[0048] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An embodiment of a track lighting system according to the invention is schematically depicted;

[0049] Figure 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of a plurality of luminaires suitable for use in a track lighting system according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An embodiment of a track lighting system according to the invention is schematically depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An embodiment of a track lighting system 10 according to the invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example. Figure 1A It is a side view. Figure 1B is the corresponding top view.

[0052] exist Figure 1A-1B The track lighting system 10 depicted in FIG. 1 comprises an elongated system rail 1 and an LED luminaire 2. The LED luminaire 2 is thereby connected to the elongated system rail 1. The elongated system rail 1 is mounted to a mounting surface 9, either mounted thereon or recessed therein. The mounting surface 9 may be, for example, a ceiling surface or a wall surface. The elongated system rail 1 extends along an elongated axis 3. Here, the elongated axis 3 is straight, but may alternatively be curved.

[0053] The LED luminaire 2 is both electrically and mechanically connected to the elongated system rail 1. Such a connection may be common to track lighting systems. Alternatively, the luminaire may be only mechanically connected to the elongated system rail. Here, the LED luminaire 2 is an LED panel. Alternatively, the luminaire may be, for example, an elongated LED strip, or a light guide.

[0054] The LED luminaire 2 comprises a back plate 4, which faces the elongated system rail 1 when the LED luminaire 2 is connected to the elongated system rail 1. The back plate 4 may be part of a housing of the LED luminaire 2. The LED luminaire 2 may optionally comprise a planar light exit window opposite to the back plate. The back plate may optionally comprise at least one further light exit window.

[0055] Still refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B According to the present invention, the LED luminaire 2 comprises a first luminaire track 5 arranged on the back plate 4. The first luminaire track 5 follows a straight path. The first luminaire track 5 extends between a first point 51 on the back plate 4 and a second point 52 on the back plate 4. Here, by way of non-limiting example, the first luminaire track 5 extends in a straight line between the first point 51 and the second point 52, but may alternatively be curved.

[0056] In aspects, by way of non-limiting example, when the LED luminaire 2 is connected to said elongated system rail 1, the first luminaire rail 5 is arranged transversely to the elongated system rail 1, more specifically, perpendicularly to the elongated system rail 1. This enables the LED luminaire 2 to be adjusted in a direction transverse to (in particular perpendicular to) the elongated system rail axis 3, while the LED luminaire 2 is mechanically connected to the elongated system rail 1 at a specific position thereon.

[0057] Still refer to Figure 1A-1B The track lighting system 10 further comprises a first connector element 6 . The first connector element 6 comprises a first luminaire connector 61 and a first track connector 62 .

[0058] The first track connector 62 is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail 1. The first track connector 62 can be moved along the elongated system rail 1 (e.g., to position the LED luminaire 2 to a position along the elongated system rail 1). This adaptability and versatility is a common and known advantage of track lighting systems. The first track connector 62 can, for example, snap fit to the elongated system rail 1.

[0059] However, still refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the first illuminator connector 61 is mechanically connected to the first illuminator track 5. The first illuminator connector 61 can also move along the first illuminator track 5. Therefore, the LED illuminator 2 itself has a track. More specifically, the first illuminator track 5 includes a first slit embedded in the back panel of the LED illuminator 2, wherein the first illuminator connector 61 is mechanically confined in the first slit of the first illuminator track 5. Alternatively, the first illuminator track can be arranged on the back panel, such as on a rail, ridge or groove on the back panel.

[0060] Similarly, although optionally, the first luminaire connector may be electrically connected to the luminaire via the electrical connection in the slot. Still alternatively, the first luminaire track may be a rail, wherein the first luminaire connector is configured to engage with the rail to form a mechanical connection, still allowing the luminaire and the first luminaire connector to move relative to each other along the rail.

[0061] Therefore, the first connector element 6 mechanically and electrically connects the LED luminaire 2 to the elongated system rail 1 by, for example, limiting movement in a direction perpendicular to the back panel 4 or perpendicular to the elongated system rail 1, but since the movement of the first luminaire connector 61 is movable along the first luminaire rail 5, the LED luminaire 2 can still be moved in (one or more) directions defined along the first luminaire rail 5.

[0062] Therefore, the present invention presents additional advantages in more ergonomically positioning the LED luminaire 2 relative to the elongated system rail 1 of the track lighting system 10, especially when dealing with large area luminaires such as LED panels 2. The LED luminaire 2 is fixed to the elongated system rail 1 at a specific position, but because the first luminaire rail 5 can still be adjusted to move relative to the elongated system rail 1, and the first luminaire connector 61 is movable in the first luminaire rail 5.

[0063] In the example, still refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , although optionally and not explicitly depicted, the first rail connector 62 includes a first rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first rail connector 62 into a position on the elongated system rail 1; and / or the first luminaire connector 61 includes a first luminaire connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first luminaire connector 61 into a position on the first luminaire rail 5.

[0064] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An embodiment of a track lighting system 20 according to the invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example. Figure 2A It is a side view. Figure 2B is the corresponding top view.

[0065] In addition to the (path of) the first luminaire track arranged on the back panel and the number of connector elements engaged with the first luminaire track, Figure 2A-2B The track lighting system 20 depicted in Figure 1A-1B The track lighting system 10 is depicted in FIG.

[0066] exist Figure 2A-2B The track lighting system 20 depicted in comprises an elongated system rail 21 and an LED luminaire 22. The LED luminaire 22 is thereby connected to said elongated system rail 21. The elongated system rail 21 is mounted to a mounting surface 29. The elongated system rail 21 extends along an elongated axis 23. Here, the elongated axis 3 is straight, but may alternatively be curved.

[0067] The LED illuminator 22 is both electrically and mechanically connected to the elongated system rail 21. Such a connection may be common for a track lighting system. Here, the LED illuminator 22 is an LED panel. Alternatively, the illuminator may be, for example, an elongated LED strip, or a light guide. The LED illuminator 22 comprises a back plate 24, which faces the elongated system rail 21 when the LED illuminator 22 is connected to the elongated system rail 21. The LED illuminator 22 may optionally comprise a planar light exit window opposite to the back plate.

[0068] Still refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to the present invention, the LED illuminator 22 includes a first illuminator track 25 arranged on the back plate 24. The first illuminator track 25 extends in a circular path on the back plate (i.e., between a first point on the back plate 24 and a second point 52 on the back plate 24, the first point and the second point overlap). Here, by way of non-limiting example, the first illuminator track 25 is circular.

[0069] Still refer to Figure 2A-2B , the track lighting system 20 further comprises a first connector element 26 and a second connector element 27. The first connector element 26 comprises a first luminaire connector 261 and a first track connector 262. The second connector element 27 comprises a first luminaire connector 271 and a first track connector 272. The first connector element 26 and the second connector element 27 are identical in configuration, such as, for example, their respective sizes. Alternatively, the luminaire may comprise the first connector element and the second connector element, i.e. as an integral part thereof.

[0070] The first track connector 262 and the second track connector 272 are mechanically (and electrically) connected to the elongated system rail 1. The first track connector 262 and the second track connector 272 can be moved along the elongated system rail 21 (e.g., to position the LED illuminator 22 to a position along the elongated system rail 21). Thus, the first track connector 262 and the second track connector 272 can be, for example, snap-fitted to the elongated system rail 21.

[0071] In an alternative aspect, the first rail connector may include an anode connection and the second rail connector may include a cathode connection, such that both make electrical connections to the elongated system rail.

[0072] Still refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the first illuminator connector 261 and the second illuminator connector are mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 25. The first illuminator connector 261 and the second illuminator connector 271 can also move along the first illuminator track 25. Therefore, the LED illuminator 22 itself has a track. More specifically, the first illuminator track 25 includes a first slit embedded in the back plate of the LED illuminator 22, wherein the first illuminator connector 261 and the second illuminator connector 271 are mechanically confined in the first slit of the first illuminator track 25. Alternatively, the slit can be, for example, a groove or a rail.

[0073] Therefore, the first connector element 26 and the second connector element 27 firmly mechanically connect the LED illuminator 22 to the elongated system rail 21 by, for example, limiting the movement in the direction perpendicular to the back plate 24 or perpendicular to the elongated system rail 21, but since the movement of the first illuminator connector 261 and the second illuminator connector 271 is movable along the first illuminator rail 25, the LED illuminator 22 can still move in (one or more) directions defined along the first illuminator rail 25, i.e., a circular path. Therefore, when the first rail connector 262 and the second rail connector 272 are connected to the elongated system rail 21, the LED illuminator 22 can rotate relative to the elongated system rail 21.

[0074] Therefore, the present invention presents additional advantages in more ergonomically positioning the LED luminaire 22 relative to the elongated system rail 21 of the track lighting system 20, especially when dealing with large area luminaires such as LED panels 22. The LED luminaire 22 is fixed to the elongated system rail 21 at a specific position, but because the first luminaire rail 25 can still be adjusted to move relative to the elongated system rail 21, and the first luminaire connector 261 and the second luminaire connector 271 are movable in the first luminaire rail 25.

[0075] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An embodiment of a track lighting system 30 according to the invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example. Figure 3A It is a side view. Figure 3B is the corresponding top view.

[0076] In addition to the (number and path of) the luminaire tracks arranged on the back panel and in addition to the number of connector elements engaged with the (one or more) luminaire tracks, Figure 3A-3B The track lighting system 30 depicted in Figure 2A-2B The track lighting system 20 is depicted in FIG.

[0077] More specifically, in Figure 3A-3B The track lighting system 30 depicted in comprises an elongated system rail 31 and an LED luminaire 32. The LED luminaire 32 is thereby connected to said elongated system rail 31. The elongated system rail 31 is mounted to a mounting surface 39. The elongated system rail 31 extends along an elongated axis 33. Here, the elongated axis 33 is straight, but may alternatively be curved.

[0078] The LED illuminator 32 is electrically and mechanically connected to the elongated system rail 31. Such a connection may be common for a track lighting system. Here, the LED illuminator 32 is a square LED tile. Alternatively, the illuminator may be, for example, an elongated LED strip, an LED panel or a light guide. The LED illuminator 32 comprises a back plate 34, which faces the elongated system rail 31 when the LED illuminator 32 is connected to the elongated system rail 31. The LED light source 32 may optionally comprise a planar light exit window opposite to the back plate.

[0079] Still refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B According to the present invention, the LED illuminator 32 includes a first illuminator track 35 arranged on the back plate 34. The first illuminator track 35 extends on the back plate 34 in a straight path (ie, between a first point 351 on the back plate 34 and a second point 352 on the back plate 34).

[0080] The LED illuminator 32 also includes a second illuminator track 45 disposed on the back plate 34. The second illuminator track 45 extends in a straight path on the back plate 34 (ie, between a third point 451 on the back plate 34 and a fourth point 452 on the back plate 34).

[0081] Here, by way of non-limiting example, the first illuminator track 35 and the second illuminator track 45 are symmetrical with respect to a symmetry plane perpendicular to the back plate (i.e., a symmetry plane of a square passing through its center). Furthermore, here, the first illuminator track 35 and the second illuminator track 45 are arranged in parallel on the back plate of the LED illuminator 32. This makes the connection with the elongated system track 31 more secure and the load distribution more uniform.

[0082] Here, still refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , the first luminaire track 35 and the second luminaire track 45 are arranged transversely (more specifically perpendicularly) to the elongated axis 33 of the elongated system track 31. This is not necessary. Alternatively, the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track can intersect on the back plate, or at least partially be circular or elliptical.

[0083] Still refer to Figure 3A-3B , the track lighting system 30 also includes a first connector element 36 and a second connector element 37. The first connector element 36 includes a first luminaire connector 361 and a first track connector 362. The second connector element 37 includes a first luminaire connector 371 and a first track connector 372. The first connector element 36 and the second connector element 37 are identical in configuration, such as, for example, their respective sizes.

[0084] The first track connector 362 and the second track connector 372 are mechanically (and electrically) connected to the elongated system rail 31. The first track connector 362 and the second track connector 372 can be moved along the elongated system rail 31 (e.g., to position the LED illuminator 32 to a position along the elongated system rail 31). Thus, the first track connector 362 and the second track connector 372 can be, for example, snap-fitted to the elongated system rail 31.

[0085] In an alternative aspect, the first rail connector may include an anode connection and the second rail connector may include a cathode connection, such that both make electrical connections to the elongated system rail.

[0086] Still refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B, the first illuminator connector 361 is mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 35 and can move along the first illuminator track 35. The second illuminator connector 371 is mechanically connected to the second illuminator track 45 and can move along the second illuminator track 45. Therefore, the LED illuminator 22 itself has two tracks. The tracks can be alternatively considered as slits, grooves or rails.

[0087] Thus, the first connector element 36 and the second connector element 37 securely mechanically connect the LED luminaire 32 to the elongated system rail 31, but due to the movement of the first luminaire connector 361 and the second luminaire connector 371 being movable along the first luminaire rail 35 and the second luminaire rail 45, respectively, the LED luminaire 32 can still be moved in a direction(s) other than the elongated axis 33 of the elongated system rail 31. That is, the LED luminaire 32 can be adjusted in a direction perpendicular to the elongated axis 33 of the elongated system rail 31 while the LED luminaire 32 is still connected to a specific position on the elongated system rail 31. Therefore, the present invention presents an additional advantage in more ergonomically positioning the LED luminaire 32 relative to the elongated system rail 31 of the track lighting system 30.

[0088] In the example, still refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B , although optionally and not explicitly depicted, the first rail connector 362 includes a first rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first rail connector 362 into position on the elongated system rail 31; and the second rail connector 372 includes a second rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the second rail connector 372 into position on the elongated system rail 31.

[0089] Respectively Figure 1A-1B , Figure 2A-2B and Figure 3A-3B The track lighting systems 10, 20, 30 depicted in are not limited. Other examples can be similarly envisioned. Figure 4 By way of non-limiting example, schematically depicted is a top view of an elongated system rail 90 to which five different LED luminaires 91, 92, 93, 94, 95 according to the invention are mechanically and optionally electrically connected. The connection is established via: a first connector element, or a first connector element and a second connector element, or a first connector element and a second connector element and a third connector element.

[0090] For example, the first exemplary LED illuminator 91 includes a back plate 914 facing the elongated system track 90 (when the first exemplary illuminator 91 is connected to the elongated system track 90). The back plate 914 includes a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. The illuminator also includes a first illuminator track 915 arranged on the back plate 914. The first illuminator track 915 extends between a first point on the back plate 914 and a second point on the back plate. More specifically, the first illuminator track 915 is curved and follows a path of a semicircle. Alternatively, the path can be elliptical. The LED illuminator 91 also includes a first connector element 916, although the first connector element 916 can be a separate device assembled with the LED illuminator 91 in the track lighting system. The first connector element 916 includes a first illuminator connector, which is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 915 and movable along the first illuminator track 915. The first connector element 916 includes a first rail connector that is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90 .

[0091] For example, the second exemplary LED illuminator 92 includes a back plate 924 facing the elongated system rail 90 (when the second exemplary illuminator 92 is connected to the elongated system rail 90). The back plate 924 includes a rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. The LED illuminator 92 also includes a first illuminator track 925 arranged on the back plate 924. The first illuminator track 925 extends between a first point on the back plate 924 and a second point on the back plate. The LED illuminator 92 also includes a second illuminator track 928 arranged on the back plate 924. The second illuminator track 928 extends between a third point on the back plate 924 and a fourth point on the back plate 924. More specifically, the first illuminator track 925 is straight and follows a straight path, while the second illuminator track 928 is straight and follows a straight path. The first illuminator track 925 and the second illuminator track 928 intersect at their centers, thereby creating a cross with each other. The second exemplary LED luminaire 92 also includes a first connector element 926, although the first connector element 926 may be a separate device assembled with the LED luminaire 92 in the track lighting system. The first connector element 926 includes a first luminaire connector configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track 925 and / or the second luminaire track 925 and movable along the first luminaire track 925 and / or the second luminaire track 928. The first connector element 926 includes a first track connector configured to be mechanically connected to the elongated system track 90 and movable along the elongated system track 90.

[0092] For example, the third exemplary LED illuminator 93 includes a back plate 934 facing the elongated system rail 90 (when the third exemplary illuminator 93 is connected to the elongated system rail 90). The back plate 934 includes a square shape, but is not limited thereto. The LED illuminator 93 also includes a first illuminator track 935 arranged on the back plate 934. The first illuminator track 935 extends between a first point on the back plate 934 and a second point on the back plate 934. The illuminator 93 also includes a second illuminator track 938 arranged on the back plate 934. The second illuminator track 938 extends between a third point on the back plate 934 and a fourth point on the back plate 934. More specifically, the first illuminator track 935 is straight and follows a straight path, while the second illuminator track 938 is straight and follows a straight path. The first illuminator track 935 and the second illuminator track are arranged in parallel on the back plate 934 of the illuminator 93. Thus, the first illuminator track 935 and the second illuminator track 938 are symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry of the square back plate 934. The third exemplary LED illuminator 93 also includes a first connector element 936 and a second connector element 937, although the first connector element 936 and the second connector element 937 can be separate devices assembled with the LED illuminator 93 in the track lighting system. The first connector element 936 includes a first illuminator connector, which is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 935 and movable along the first illuminator track 935. The second connector element 937 includes a second illuminator connector, which is configured to be mechanically connected to the second illuminator track 938 and movable along the second illuminator track 938. The first connector element 936 includes a first track connector, which is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track 90 and movable along the elongated system track 90. The second connector element 938 includes a second rail connector that is configured to be mechanically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90 .

[0093] For example, the fourth exemplary illuminator 94 includes a back panel 944 facing the elongated system rail 90 (when the fourth exemplary LED illuminator 94 is connected to the elongated system rail 90). The back panel 944 includes a square shape, but is not limited thereto. The illuminator 94 also includes a first illuminator track 945 arranged on the back panel 944. The first illuminator track 945 extends between a first point on the back panel 944 and a second point on the back panel 944. The LED illuminator 94 also includes a second illuminator track 948 arranged on the back panel 944. The second illuminator track 948 extends between a third point on the back panel 944 and a fourth point on the back panel 944. The illuminator 94 also includes a third illuminator track 949 arranged on the back panel 944. The third illuminator track 949 extends between a fifth point on the back panel 944 and a sixth point on the back panel 944. More specifically, the first illuminator track 945 is straight and follows a straight path, the second illuminator track 948 is straight and follows a straight path, and the third illuminator track 949 is straight and follows a straight path. The first illuminator track 945, the second illuminator track 948, and the third illuminator track 949 are parallel to each other and are arranged in parallel on the back plate 944. The fourth exemplary LED illuminator 94 also includes a first connector element 946, a second connector element 947, and a third connector element 943. However, alternatively, the first connector element 946, the second connector element 947, and the third connector element 943 can be independent devices assembled with the LED illuminator 94 in the track lighting system. The first connector element 946 includes a first illuminator connector, which is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 945 and movable along the first illuminator track 945. The second connector element 947 includes a second illuminator connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to a second illuminator rail 948 and movable along the second illuminator rail 948. The third connector element 943 includes a third illuminator connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to a third illuminator rail 949 and movable along the third illuminator rail 949. The first connector element 946 includes a first rail connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90. The second connector element 948 includes a second rail connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90. The third connector element 943 includes a third rail connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90.Alternatively, the first luminaire track, the second luminaire track and the third luminaire track may intersect on the back panel.

[0094] For example, the fifth exemplary LED illuminator 95 includes a back plate 954 facing the elongated system rail 90 (when the fifth exemplary LED illuminator 95 is connected to the elongated system rail 90). The back plate 934 includes a square shape, but is not limited thereto. The illuminator 95 also includes a first illuminator track 955 arranged on the back plate 954. The first illuminator track 955 extends between a first point on the back plate 954 and a second point on the back plate 954. The illuminator 95 also includes a second illuminator track 958 arranged on the back plate 954. The second illuminator track 958 extends between a third point on the back plate 954 and a fourth point on the back plate 954. More specifically, the first illuminator track 955 is curved and partially follows a circular path, while the second illuminator track 958 is curved and partially follows a circular path. The first illuminator track 955 and the second illuminator track are arranged in parallel on the back plate 954 of the LED illuminator 95. The first illuminator track 955 and the second illuminator track 958 are thus symmetrical with respect to a symmetry plane perpendicular to the back plate 954 (e.g., a diagonal through the square back plate 954). The fifth exemplary LED illuminator 95 is also configured to connect to the elongated system track using a first connector element 956 and a second connector element 957. The first connector element 956 includes a first illuminator connector that is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first illuminator track 955 and movable along the first illuminator track 955. The second connector element 957 includes a second illuminator connector that is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second illuminator track 958 and movable along the second illuminator track 958. The first connector element 956 includes a first track connector that is configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track 90 and movable along the elongated system track 90. The second connector element 958 comprises a second rail connector configured to be mechanically and optionally electrically connected to the elongated system rail 90 and movable along the elongated system rail 90 .

[0095] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An embodiment of a track lighting system 500 according to the invention is schematically depicted by way of non-limiting example. Figure 5A It is a side view. Figure 5B Depicted are perspective views of corresponding devices in various orientations relative to the elongated system rail, referred to as (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v), or alternatively stated as options or modes relative to the elongated system rail.

[0096] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the track lighting system 500 includes an elongated system rail 590, a first connector element 511, and an LED luminaire 510 configured to be connected to the elongated system rail 590. The elongated system rail extends along an elongated axis.

[0097] The first connector element 511 mechanically and electrically connects the LED illuminator 510 to the elongated system track 590. The first connector element 511 includes a first illuminator connector and a first track connector. The first connector element may be similar to the one described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 . Figure 4 The first connector element is described in the embodiment depicted in FIG.

[0098] The LED luminaire 510 comprises a panel 512 which at least partially faces the elongated system rail 590 when the LED luminaire 510 is connected to the elongated system rail 590. The panel 512 may be part of the housing of the luminaire. The panel 512 may alternatively be a luminaire surface or a luminaire housing.

[0099] The LED luminaire 510 also includes a first luminaire track 513 arranged in or on a panel 513 of the LED luminaire 510. The first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track 513 and is movable along the first luminaire track 513. The first track connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system track 590 and is movable along the elongated system track 590.

[0100] Here, the panel (or: luminaire surface) is at least partially curved in three dimensions.The LED luminaire may for example be a LED spotlight having a curved shape.

[0101] Here, the first luminaire track 513 extends at least partially along a curved path over the panel 512 (or: luminaire surface).

[0102] Optionally, but in Figure 5A , the curved path includes a first straight path portion 513′ and a second straight path portion 513″. A centerline 5131 of the first straight path portion 513′ is perpendicular to a centerline 5132 of the second straight path portion.

Claims

1. A track lighting system comprising an elongated system track, a first connector element, and an LED luminaire configured to be connected to the elongated system track; wherein the elongated system track extends along an elongated axis; wherein the first connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system rail, wherein the first connector element comprises a first luminaire connector and a first rail connector; wherein the LED illuminator comprises a back panel facing the elongated system rail when the LED illuminator is connected to the elongated system rail, and a first illuminator track arranged in or on the back panel of the LED illuminator; wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; wherein the first rail connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail and is movable along the elongated system rail; wherein the track lighting system comprises a second connector element; wherein the second connector element is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED luminaire to the elongated system rail, wherein the second connector element comprises a second luminaire connector and a second rail connector; wherein the second rail connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the elongated system rail and is movable along the elongated system rail; wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the first luminaire track and is movable along the first luminaire track; or Wherein the LED luminaire comprises a second luminaire track arranged in or on a back panel of the luminaire, and wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the second luminaire track and is movable along the second luminaire track. 2 . The track lighting system of claim 1 , wherein the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track are arranged symmetrically with respect to each other with respect to a symmetry plane perpendicular to the back panel.

3. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track are arranged in parallel on a back plate of the luminaire.

4. Track lighting system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first luminaire track and / or the second luminaire track are recessed in the back panel. 5 . The track lighting system of claim 1 , wherein the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track intersect each other on the back panel.

6. Track lighting system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track extend at least partially along a circular path, a curved path or an elliptical path.

7. Track lighting system according to any of the preceding claims 1-6, wherein the first luminaire track and the second luminaire track extend along a straight path.

8. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, Wherein the first rail connector and / or the second rail connector are snap-fitted into the elongated system rail.

9. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rail connector comprises a first rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first rail connector into a fixed position on the elongated system rail; and / or The first luminaire connector includes a first luminaire connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the first luminaire connector to a fixed position on the first luminaire track.

10. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second rail connector comprises a second rail connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the second rail connector into a fixed position on the elongated system rail; and / or The second luminaire connector includes a second luminaire connector locking mechanism to reversibly lock the second luminaire connector to a fixed position on the second luminaire track.

11. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the LED luminaire is a LED panel.

12. Track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first luminaire track comprises a first slot embedded in a back panel of the luminaire, wherein the first luminaire connector is mechanically constrained in the first slot of the first luminaire track; and / or Wherein the second luminaire track comprises a second slot embedded in a back plate of the luminaire, wherein the second luminaire connector is mechanically captured in the second slot of the second luminaire track.

13. A track lighting system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the track lighting system comprises a third connector element; wherein the third connector element comprises a third illuminator connector and a third track connector; wherein the third illuminator connector is mechanically connected to the first illuminator track and is movable along the first illuminator track; The third rail connector is mechanically connected to the elongated system rail and is movable along the elongated system rail.

14. A track lighting system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector element and / or the second connector element comprises a respective controllable hinge, wherein the respective controllable hinge is configured to hinge the first luminaire connector and the first track connector relative to each other, and / or wherein the respective controllable hinge is configured to hinge the second luminaire connector and the second track connector relative to each other.

15. The track lighting system of claim 1, wherein the track lighting system comprises (i) a circular first illuminator track or (ii) a first illuminator track and a second illuminator track intersecting each other, wherein the LED illuminator is rotatable about an axis A, wherein the axis A extends perpendicular to the back panel of the LED illuminator.

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