Profile cover mounting

Abstract

This invention relates to a profile cover mounting device (30) for mounting a cover (40) onto a profile guide rail (50). For example, it is used to mount a translucent plastic cover (40) into a lateral longitudinal groove (51) of a U-shaped lighting profile guide rail (50). The mounting device has a housing (32) and a reel (31) on which the cover (40) is wound for use, and the reel can be inserted into the housing (32). The housing (32) forms at least one guide rail guide (35) through which the housing (32) can abut or engage with the profile guide rail (50) in a defined position and can move along its profile longitudinal direction (56). The guide rail guide (35) is configured such that the cover (40) introduces its first longitudinal groove (51) along the longitudinal direction (56) on the first side (59a) of the profile guide rail (50) at the first position (A) and its second longitudinal groove (51) along the longitudinal direction (56) on the second side (59b) of the profile guide rail (50) at the second position (B), wherein the first and second positions (A, B) are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (74).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an installation apparatus for mounting a cover to a profile guide rail as described in the preamble of claim 1, and a corresponding method for mounting such a cover using a deformation-assisted tool.

[0002] Specifically, the present invention relates to a roll-up device, which is particularly used for mounting a light-transmitting plastic cover, such as a diffuser or light guide film, onto a U-shaped lighting profile guide rail, in which a light-emitting device, such as an LED strip, is accommodated or mounted.

[0003] Similar lighting profiles or light tracks in the sense of this invention are illustrated, for example, in WO2023 / 012507 or WO2023 / 012744. In these documents, rigid profile rails, typically with a generally approximate U- or H-shaped cross-section, are made of, for example, metal or plastic and house internal light-emitting devices. Such lighting profiles are usually provided with a cover for aesthetic, anti-fouling, or contact protection purposes, and / or for optical technology reasons. Traditionally, this cover is supplied as a long, straight plastic rod with the profile rail and is manually installed onto the profile after the lighting installation is complete.

[0004] Handling and installing such covers is often not straightforward because they are long, thin strips that are difficult to maneuver. Their geometry alone usually makes them flexible enough to bend or sag, or even break, during carrying, transport, and installation.

[0005] Therefore, installing covers on such lighting fixtures may be extra difficult, as these lighting profiles are often mounted on the ceiling or suspended freely, for example, by ropes.

[0006] Another challenge lies in the fact that the maximum length of the cover strip is limited by transportation conditions, ranging from 2 m, 4 m, or 5 m depending on the manufacturer and shipping method. This often inevitably results in unsightly butt joints in the cover, which are not only aesthetically unappealing but also difficult to install cleanly and seamlessly. Furthermore, the translucent cover must be kept clean to maintain an attractive appearance. Therefore, it should be free of dirt, dust, or fingerprints, making it preferable to wear clean gloves during installation, which increases the workload.

[0007] The known solutions have drawbacks in various aspects, particularly in the handling, transportation, and ease of use of consumable parts, the large amount of scrap material, the difficulty in installation, and the numerous joints, which increases material consumption and generates more waste.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus or method that does not have or minimizes the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, an improved method for installing profile guide rail covers should be provided, which generates less waste and generally allows for higher processing quality. In particular, a simple and reliable installation method should be developed. To this end, corresponding installation devices can be provided to implement the method or facilitate its implementation. Special objectives, in addition to simplifying installation, include, for example, avoiding / reducing mating joints, avoiding / reducing finger contact with the covers, avoiding / reducing scrap and waste, reusability of remaining material, and reliable introduction even in difficult, narrow installation locations.

[0009] These objectives are achieved through the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments and embodiments are given in the drawings, dependent claims, and the following description.

[0010] According to the present invention, a profile cover mounting device is provided, which is designed for mounting a cover onto a profile guide rail. This profile cover mounting device is also referred to herein as a mounting device or a reel.

[0011] In a completely different technical context, the term "roller" is typically used, for example, for devices that press window seals into window grooves. This document clearly does not refer to such devices. Likewise, it clearly does not refer to devices for introducing LED strips, such as kmd Industrievertretungen's "LED strip roller / 8mm" (www.km-decor.ch / de / produkt / einroller-fuer-led-stripes-8mm / – consulted February 27, 2024). Therefore, the term is now being reused for new uses and new devices.

[0012] A preferred embodiment of the invention or the roll-to-roll device is designed, for example, to mount a translucent or light-guiding plastic cover onto a U-shaped lighting profile guide, such as an aluminum or plastic profile, which initially has a continuous open surface along its length for light emission. This open surface is then sealed with a translucent plastic cover, particularly a transparent, translucent, or frosted glass-like cover. In addition to physically sealing the profile to prevent dust or contact, the plastic also functions specifically as an optical diffuser or light guide unit for the emitted light.

[0013] These profile rails are typically 1 to 12 cm wide in cross-section and the same length as the required lighting length—usually exceeding one meter to tens of meters. The profile rails can also be segmented for ease of transport. For example, typical profile rails for such applications are approximately U-shaped in cross-section, or generally rectangular or square with a (at least partially) open side, with dimensions such as 20 mm × 20 mm or 50 mm × 40 mm. In other embodiments, the profile rails may also be approximately H-shaped in cross-section, with two sidewalls and a central web, and two (at least partially) open surfaces, such as an open (to be covered) front side for light emission and an open rear side for mounting and / or power connection. In particular, these profile rails may also have grooves and / or protrusions formed in cross-section. The term "longitudinal groove" as used herein includes not only elongated recesses of arbitrary shape but also channels formed by two protruding longitudinal ribs. For example, the profile rail may have at least one lateral longitudinal groove formed in each of the protruding longitudinal ribs. Specifically, the profile guide rail may have longitudinal grooves or ribs formed in the light-emitting opening area of ​​the lighting profile. These grooves or ribs are specifically designed to accommodate the cover on both sides in a form-fit manner. Preferably, the cover is made almost or substantially flush with or closes the opening of the profile guide rail. In other embodiments not currently claimed, the cover may also be mounted to the profile guide rail by force fit or friction fit, particularly by the elastic tension of the cover and / or the profile guide rail.

[0014] The cover can be a flexible, bendable, and particularly rollable, translucent plastic strip, for example, having an approximately rectangular cross-section, the width of which is designed so that the cover can be received in a form-fit manner in profile guides, particularly in the form of retaining the shape of the cover, such as between longitudinal grooves or longitudinal ribs. The cross-sectional height need not be constant in width and should be selected to achieve sufficient light transmittance, diffusion, and / or specific light emission effects, for example in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, particularly about 0.15 to 0.3 mm. The length of the cover or cover strip can range from several meters to tens of meters, for example about 10 to 40 meters per roll, particularly for example, 20 meters. The cover of the present invention can also be provided on a large roll of much greater length and wound from there onto the reel of the roller of the present invention.

[0015] The profile cover mounting device or novel reel of the present invention includes a housing. This housing is preferably made of plastic, sustainable materials such as bamboo, cardboard, and / or metal, and serves to hold and operate the mounting device, particularly to accommodate a reel or spool to hold a quasi-continuous cover. Therefore, it may have an approximately cylindrical recess for such a reel, and preferably has the possibility of rotatable reel fixation about a center. The reel diameter is on the order of approximately 10 cm to 40 cm. The width of the reel or profile cover mounting device is correspondingly slightly wider than the width of the cover.

[0016] On such a reel, the cover to be installed, as a replaceable component of the profile cover mounting device of the present invention, can be wound or has been wound for use. The reel can be inserted into or has been inserted into the housing. For cover installation to be performed, the reel must be inserted into the housing and the cover must be wound on the reel; these components may also be provided separately in the delivery state, for sale, storage, etc., to constitute the profile cover mounting device of the present invention.

[0017] The housing forms at least one guide rail guide, through which the housing can abut against the profile guide rail at a defined position and can move longitudinally thereal. Therefore, the profile cover mounting device can be guided within or on the profile and move along the profile. That is, it can slide on the open side of the profile guide rail, wherein the guide rail guide and the profile guide rail provide lateral guidance at mutually defined positions.

[0018] Preferably, the guide rail guide is also configured to snap into the profile guide rail. For example, the guide rail guide may be shaped to snap into lateral slots or guides for subsequent installation of the cover. Thus, the reel can be configured to remain on the profile guide rail in the snap-in state, particularly in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the cover. This facilitates operations such as overhead work, for example, because the reel itself remains on the profile and will not fall off even if released. In other words, in a particular embodiment, the housing should also be configured to remain within the profile during overhead applications, while the mounting platform, for example, where the installer stands, can be moved or repositioned, which is particularly common with long lighting lengths.

[0019] Therefore, in its main embodiment, the present invention relates to a profile cover mounting device for mounting a cover to a profile guide rail, particularly for mounting a preferably light-transmitting plastic cover into a lateral longitudinal groove of a U-shaped lighting profile guide rail. The mounting device includes at least one housing, for example made of plastic or metal or sustainable materials such as bamboo, cardboard, or wainscoting, and a reel on which the cover can be wound or has been wound for use, and the reel is rotatably inserted or has been inserted into the housing. The housing is formed with at least one guide rail guide, through which the housing can be abutted against and engaged with the profile guide rail or its longitudinal groove in a defined position, and can move longitudinally therein. According to the invention, in this embodiment, the guide rail guide is configured such that the cover:

[0020] - At the first position A, along the longitudinal direction, specifically only on the first side of the profile guide, a first longitudinal groove is introduced, and

[0021] - At the second position B, a second longitudinal groove is introduced on the second side of the profile guide rail along the longitudinal direction.

[0022] The first and second positions A and B are longitudinally spaced apart by a distance greater than 0 or 0 mm, particularly greater than 10 mm, for example, 30 mm to 50 mm. Preferably, the first and second positions can be considered as being in sequence in the direction of movement during introduction.

[0023] Similarly, using the principles or apparatus / method of the present invention, the installed cover can also be rolled out again from the profile guide rail—that is, disassembled. The cover can then be advantageously rewound onto the reel, thus avoiding contamination or damage, and the same cover can be reinstalled using a reel after successful LED repair / replacement.

[0024] Preferably, in position A, at the inserted guide rail guide, a lateral stop for the cover is formed on the housing, which achieves relative positioning of the cover with respect to the first side longitudinal groove, such that the cover falls into the longitudinal groove with its edge / side.

[0025] More preferably, in the first position A, the cover is guided deeper on the first side than on the second side by the housing or its guide rail guide. Height or depth here refers to the position within the profile guide rail sidewall, for example, measured relative to the upper edge of the profile sidewall at its open end. For example, in position A, the cover is guided at the height of the longitudinal groove on the first side, while on the second side it is guided outside or above the upper edge of the longitudinal groove or profile guide rail. Thus, in position A, the first side of the cover is positioned or introduced into the first longitudinal groove. In the second position B, the cover is also guided at the height of the longitudinal groove on the second side. At this point, position B preferably also allows the first side to continue being guided at the same longitudinal groove height, thereby reliably holding it therein. Thus, the second side of the cover is also positioned or introduced into the second longitudinal groove—thus completing the installation of the cover.

[0026] Preferably, the guide rail guide has opposing retainers below the cover, which are arranged such that the cover is guided in a defined position, particularly in height, between the housing and the opposing retainers. When the profile cover mounting device is abutted or mounted onto the profile guide rail, the opposing retainers are arranged at the lower inner edge of the profile guide rail or slightly below the height of the longitudinal groove. As described above, the opposing retainers position the cover at two different longitudinal positions A and B into the longitudinal groove, particularly on both sides of the profile or cover, for example, by providing lateral outlets at different longitudinal positions on the guide rail guide. Thus, the cover can be correctly introduced into the longitudinal groove without falling too deeply into the profile guide rail.

[0027] More preferably, the housing has a shape / nose formed at the cover introduction area or at its end, which positions the cover at the height of the longitudinal groove on the first and second sides of the profile guide. In this case, the cover is preferably additionally supported from the opposite side by opposing retainers, thereby preventing the cover from falling too deep into the profile guide (e.g., falling below the longitudinal groove) or being guided to that depth.

[0028] Preferably, the housing may be formed together with opposing retainers in regions A and B, the opposing retainers being configured and arranged such that the cover can pass between the guide rail and the opposing retainers. In particular, the housing also forms additional lateral guide elements for laterally positioning the cover within the housing, these guide elements being shaped to push the cover into or retain it in the corresponding longitudinal groove at the respective locations A and B.

[0029] More preferably, the guide rail guide has at least one, preferably multiple, snap-fit ​​features configured to snap into the underside of the lateral longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail when mounted on it. This can be achieved in particular by automatically holding the mounting device on the profile guide rail. For example, these snap-fit ​​features can be formed in the form of resiliently movable / deformable hooks or snap-fit ​​noses on opposing retainers located inside the profile guide rail, for example, in the form of at least four hook-shaped noses.

[0030] Preferably, the reel can be rotatably inserted into or has been inserted into the housing in an interchangeable manner.

[0031] More preferably, the spool or housing may be formed with a travel indicator, which in particular has a scale indicating the remaining length of the cover on the spool. Preferably, the remaining length scale increases non-linearly from the outside to the inside, or, if the spool has a mechanical brake, the scale increases from the inside to the outside. In this case, it is preferable to form a braking device, particularly a mechanical one, on the spool and / or housing. This braking device is specifically designed to prevent the cover from unwinding due to "spring force." Preventing unwinding by a brake or other suitable device ensures that the remaining length indicator can be meaningfully read under all circumstances.

[0032] Preferably, the guide rail guide portion may have at least two crossbars or latching / retaining devices arranged longitudinally and spaced apart along the profile width direction. These crossbars or devices are configured to be placed laterally on the upper edge of the profile guide rail and extend into the profile interior and / or abut against a portion of the profile guide rail side outside the profile width.

[0033] More preferably, the profile cover mounting device is provided with a cutting or slicing device or cutting aid for the cover. This may be in the form of a blade or a guide for an external cutter or blade. With the aid of this cutting device or cutting aid, the cover can be cut, slit, scratched, or marked. This is particularly done at a longitudinally defined position, specifically by a stop on the guide rail adapted to the length of the profile guide rail or the end cap of the profile guide rail, preferably at a defined angle relative to the profile guide rail, such as 90 degrees or 45 degrees, for a defined guided cutting or slicing.

[0034] In other words, one embodiment of the cover reel of the present invention can be characterized by at least one of the following aspects: The cover is wound on a reel and can be directly wound into the profile. The profile of the underside of the cover reel is configured such that the cover can be directly applied into the profile. Because the cover is applied asymmetrically into the groove of the LED profile, the force generated is smaller than that of the arching method described above. Asymmetrical application means: first, the cover is pushed in from the rear side (position A). Then, the cover is pushed or pressed in from the front side (position B). The cover is supported on the underside of the reel, so that there is no possibility of the cover falling into the profile through the groove. The entire reel is snapped into the profile, for example, by four clips. This allows for guided winding. In addition, the reel can be released. This is an advantage when dealing with longer lengths, because it is not always possible to wind the entire cover in one go. For example, when working on a ladder, especially when the ladder needs to be moved during the winding process.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the cover can be cut straight in the correct position using a cutting aid. A through-type cutting aid is provided within the housing of the cover reel, guiding the cutter blade to ensure a straight cut of the cover. An advantageous stop can be formed on the underside of the reel to determine the end of the cover. This allows for reliable final cutting of the cover and / or parallel to the end cap. The final product is a profile with the cover flush and straightly butted to the end cap.

[0036] The housing also forms at least one inlet nose, which is shaped and arranged such that—when the cover is installed using the mounting device of the present invention—the inlet nose enables the positioning and elastic deformation of the cover. Thus, the cover can be introduced into the profile guide rail in the inlet nose region. After the elastic deformation caused by the inlet nose recedes, the cover remains in the profile guide rail.

[0037] Preferably, the profile cover mounting device is configured such that, when pressed against the profile guide rail and moved along the profile guide rail, the deformed cover can be introduced into a cover retaining shape in the inlet nose area—for example, into a longitudinal groove or between longitudinal ribs of the profile guide rail—and after elastic deformation recedes, the cover is either form-fitted into or snapped into these cover retaining shapes beyond the inlet nose, the length range in which the deformation occurred, and remains therein in a form-fitting manner. Thus, the simple and reliable introduction of the cover into the profile guide rail cover retaining shape can be achieved by simply pulling the mounting device along the profile guide rail. Preferably, after introduction, the cover is not clamped into the profile by force, but rather in a form-fitting manner—e.g., a precise fit or slightly loose—located in the longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail.

[0038] Preferably, the nose is shaped and arranged such that it causes an elastic arching or bending of the cover's cross-section. Specifically, the nose may form rounded corners, particularly convex rounded corners, projecting downwards into the space towards the profile guide. This limits the deformation of the cover, allowing it to be optimally introduced. In another embodiment, inwardly recessed rounded corners, particularly concave rounded corners, may also be formed on the nose. The advantageous geometry of the nose can be matched and optimized for the specific cover and profile guide used, for example, through calculation, simulation, and / or experimentation.

[0039] Preferably, the lowest point of the nose is below the upper support surface of the guide rail, which is designed to rest on the upper edge of the profile guide rail. Thus—with the installation tool against the profile guide rail—the nose extends at least partially into the profile—and the cover is elastically deformed in that direction. This allows for controlled and positioned introduction of the cover into the profile via a simple winding process using a winding machine. In another embodiment, deformation can also occur in the opposite direction, which is also within the scope of the invention in a similar manner. However, this may be technically more complex in the design of the installation tool, particularly in the formation of the nose, guide, retainer, opposing retainer, etc.

[0040] More preferably, the housing is shaped for operation, for example, as a finger rest, grip, or similar form. This operating shape allows the mounting device or inlet nose to be pressed against the profile guide rail, facilitating manual operation. In particular, the operating shape is configured and arranged to apply a pressing force—specifically, a pressing force sufficient to cause elastic deformation of the cover—against the profile cover mounting device, providing a good tactile feel. Right-handed and left-handed versions are particularly available. In another embodiment, the reel of the invention can also be machine-mounted onto and guided along the profile, with the pressing force applied and the guide executed by the machine, thereby almost entirely replacing the operating shape with a machine-mounted shape.

[0041] Preferably, the profile cover mounting device is shaped and configured such that the cover emerging from the inlet nose of the profile cover mounting device is laterally positioned on at least one, preferably two, edges of the profile guide or longitudinal ribs during installation. Thus, at these edges, the profile guide applies a force to the cover opposite to the abutment force, which causes elastic deformation of the cover. Specifically, the abutment force acts substantially centrally toward the profile guide cross-section via the inlet nose. Laterally, support reactions toward the reel are applied by the edges of the profile guide. This causes elastic bending of the cover cross-section in the middle. The resulting bending radius reduces the overall width of the cover, thereby facilitating or enabling insertion into the profile.

[0042] In particular, according to the invention, the cross-sectional width of the cover in a flat, stress-free state is the same as the inner width of the profile guide in a stress-free state. Specifically, it is approximately or exactly the same as the inner width of the cover to which it is introduced, maintaining its shape. That is, it has approximately a width corresponding to the depth of the longitudinal groove or the width between the longitudinal ribs on the profile guide into which the cover is introduced. This gives the installed cover a reliable retaining force in the profile guide.

[0043] Preferably, the housing of the reel is formed together with an opposing retainer in the inlet nose region. The opposing retainer is configured and arranged such that the inserted cover can pass between the inlet nose and the opposing retainer. This allows for additional or more precise definition of the cover's position. Additionally or alternatively, by engaging with the inlet nose, the opposing retainer may also cause at least partial elastic deformation of the cover, thereby facilitating its insertion and / or reducing contact force. Furthermore, the housing may form at least one additional lateral guide element for laterally positioning the cover within the housing. This allows for more precise definition of the cover's lateral position relative to the profile guide or guide rail. For example, one side of the housing may be closed in the region where the cover is unwound from the reel to the inlet nose, while the opposite side forms a slit for inserting the cover, designed together with the opposing retainer and / or at least one guide element.

[0044] More preferably, the reel is formed with at least one travel indicator. This indicator may specifically include a scale indicating the remaining cover length on the reel. Preferably, the scale for the remaining cover length increases non-linearly from the outside in, thus taking into account both the spiral shape and the tendency of the cover to elastically unwind on the reel when forming the scale. Preferably, a device is provided to ensure that the reel is always kept taut. For example, a mechanical brake can be used to secure or inhibit the rotation of the inserted reel, thereby preventing or reducing the tendency of the cover to unwind due to the spring force surrounding the cover. Thus, the reel is always kept taut, and the remaining length scale is always correctly readable, whereas it is not always the case when the cover is partially unwound on the reel. This allows installers to avoid segmenting the cover, as it is always possible to see whether the existing cover on the reel is still sufficient to cover the current profile length. Otherwise, the reel can be replaced preventively, and the reel with the currently too-short cover remaining can be reused later on shorter profile guides. This avoids scrap and butt joints on installed covers.

[0045] Preferably, the guide rail has at least two crossbars spaced longitudinally along the profile width. These crossbars may be configured, for example, to be positioned laterally on the upper edge of the profile guide rail and partially extend into the profile. Instead of or in addition to inward guidance achieved by extension, the guide rail may also abut a portion of the side of the profile guide rail outside the profile width. This allows for reliable guidance of the reel or hand-held device, and in particular, avoids jamming due to offset or tilt. In particular, the guide rail may have snap-fit ​​features configured to snap into cover retaining features or lateral longitudinal grooves—particularly those grooves subsequently introduced into the cover. This snap-fit ​​is preferably performed in such a way that the mounting device is automatically held on the profile guide rail.

[0046] More preferably, the reel can be inserted into or is already inserted into the housing in a replaceable manner. Thus, the reel is reusable. The reel can also optionally be refilled or rewound from a larger roll, advantageously in an uninserted state. The reel can be specifically configured to have an inner minimum radius designed such that the covering material used will not undergo irreversible plastic deformation at this minimum radius. Therefore, it is preferably bent only within its elastic range.

[0047] Preferably, the unwinding of the cover from the reel in the profile cover mounting device is carried out in such a manner that the cover is guided at least approximately parallel to the profile guide rail during unwinding. In particular, unwinding occurs in the region of the reel closest to the profile guide rail, from which point the cover is guided generally parallel to the profile guide rail or slightly inclined towards it. This advantageously allows the cover to be conveyed to the profile guide rail and achieves initial slack in the reel winding before the profile is introduced. Furthermore, this flat guidance in this region facilitates the positioning and definition of the cover by guide elements, positioning elements, and opposing retainers.

[0048] More preferably, in one embodiment, the roll-up device is equipped with a cutting or slicing device for the cover. This device allows the cover to be cut, slit, scratched, or marked. A roll-up device equipped with such an optional cutting or slicing device further simplifies cover installation. This avoids the need for additional tools. Preferably, the cutting or slicing device is formed in the inlet nose area, allowing for direct cutting during roll-up and, particularly, easily adapting the cutting position to the profile length. Furthermore, this ensures that clean—and, if necessary, angled—cuts are always achieved, which might be difficult to achieve with hand-held scissors. Alternatively or additionally, marking aids may be formed on the roll-up device, with which cutting marks for unloading—e.g., lines defining positions and / or orientations—can be generated on the cover, along which the cover can then be cut more easily—for example, manually using an external cutting tool.

[0049] In a similar manner, the present invention also relates to a method for mounting a cover onto a profile guide rail using a deformation-assisted tool, particularly for mounting a light-emitting cover onto a lighting profile.

[0050] This method is characterized by its method steps and operations and is not necessarily tied to specific hardware—but can be implemented, for example, with a profile cover mounting device or roll-up device whose construction details are also described herein.

[0051] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for mounting a cover onto a profile guide rail, for example, mounting a light-emitting cover onto an illumination profile, the method being carried out using an introduction aid. For example, a corresponding profile cover mounting device as described above, or other introduction aids configured to perform the steps of the method of the present invention, can be used. The method provides for winding the cover into a lateral cover retaining shape or longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail, comprising:

[0052] - The cover is guided at a first position A along the longitudinal direction of the profile guide rail, such that the cover is introduced into a first longitudinal groove provided for the cover on a first side of the profile guide rail. In particular, this can be guided at the height of the first longitudinal groove. At this time, in position A, on the opposite second side of the profile guide rail, the cover is located outside the second longitudinal groove, specifically above it.

[0053] - The cover is guided at a second position B, longitudinally spaced from the first position A, such that the cover is introduced at this position into a second longitudinal groove on the second side of the profile guide rail, opposite to the first groove. Specifically, this can be achieved at position B with the height of the second longitudinal groove. At this position B, the cover is also guided on the first side with the height of the first longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail.

[0054] In particular, guidance can be performed as geometric or mechanical guidance, such as by means of mechanical stops in the cover of an auxiliary tool.

[0055] - An auxiliary tool is introduced and slides along the profile guide rail, during which the introduced cover is unwound from the reel.

[0056] In another embodiment, the method includes winding a cover into a lateral cover holding shape or longitudinal groove of a profile guide, and pressing the cover against the profile guide via an inlet nose. The inlet nose is configured and shaped to allow elastic deformation and positioning of the cover, thereby reducing the outer width of the cover's cross-section to a position suitable for the cover holding shape, and the pressed inlet nose sliding along the profile guide during this process as the introduced cover is unwound from the reel. Due to the elasticity of the cover, a springback elastic deformation occurs in the area outside the inlet nose, causing the cover to remain in the cover holding shape in a form-fit manner.

[0057] Alternatively, the cover can be removed from the profile guide rail by a movement opposite to the unwinding motion, in the opposite direction by rolling the cover out of the profile guide rail.

[0058] The present invention also relates not only to embodiments including profile cover mounting devices or reels themselves—that is, housings combined with reels or provided separately for this purpose—but also to cover mounting kits consisting of at least one profile cover mounting device and at least one cover. In this kit, the cover is preferably wound on one or more reels, but may also be provided solely for winding.

[0059] The present invention also relates to a lighting rail kit having at least one cover mounting kit as described above and at least one profile rail. For example, it may have a lighting profile rail into which a light-emitting device can be placed or has been placed, particularly at least one LED strip, LED bar, or LED module.

[0060] Alternatively, the reel or method of the present invention can also be used in a similar manner for non-transparent coverings for electrical installations, such as cable trays.

[0061] Other advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, wherein embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] The list of reference numerals, along with the technical content of the claims and drawings, is part of this disclosure. The drawings will be described coherently and cross-referencedly. The same reference numerals denote the same parts, and reference numerals with different subscripts denote parts that have the same or similar functions.

[0063] The attached diagram shows:

[0064] Figure 1 This is an overall view of one embodiment of the present invention's roll-up device used as an installation apparatus in the process of installing a cover onto a profile guide rail.

[0065] Figure 2a This is an overview diagram of one embodiment of the reel-loader of the present invention, with the locations of subsequent partial views indicated.

[0066] Figure 2b First partial view of the reel during installation.

[0067] Figure 3 A second partial view of the reel during installation.

[0068] Figure 4 A third partial view of the roll-up device during the installation of the cover assembly.

[0069] Figure 5a A general view of another embodiment of the present invention's roll-up device used as an installation apparatus in the process of installing a cover onto a profile guide rail.

[0070] Figure 5b Figure 5a A partial view of the winding process of the medium winding machine (excluding the winding machine itself).

[0071] Figure 5c Figure 5a A partial view of the medium roll packer.

[0072] Figure 6a A schematic diagram of one embodiment of the roll-to-roll device of the present invention, showing an embodiment with a cover for unloading.

[0073] Figure 6b Figure 6a A partial view,

[0074] Figure 6c Examples of lighting profiles processed using the roll-to-roll device of the present invention

[0075] Figure 6d A sectional view of the cover material cut to fit the profile length.

[0076] Figure 7 One embodiment of the present invention's reel guide for guiding the cover is used for similar purposes. Figure 5b The introduction of

[0077] Figure 8 Figure 5 and subsequent third partial views of the roll-up device viewed from one side of the profile guide rail.

[0078] Figure 1 An example of mounting the cover 40 to the profile guide rail 50 using a deformation aid tool is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, a reel 30 constructed according to the invention is used as the mounting device. This mounting device 30 is placed and pressed against the profile guide rail 50. For example, the mounting device 30 may be formed with finger supports 33 or grips, which facilitates holding or pressing against the profile 50 without hindering the rotation of the reel 31. The cover 40 is provided or supplied by the reel 31, on which the cover is pre-wound. Advantageously, the reel 31 may be configured to be replaceable, for example, to allow the use of different cover variants (e.g., with other optical properties, colors, surfaces, shapes, etc.) and / or to allow selection of reels with sufficient cover length, preferably sufficient to cover the entire length of the profile. For example, a previously partially used remaining reel 31 with a remaining cover length sufficient / suitable for the current profile can be used.

[0079] The following implementations are possible: providing / supplying a reel 31 with the cover 40 wound on it, or a reel 31 that can be filled by the user, for example by transferring the cover from a large roll onto the reel 31 of the roller 30 or rewinding it. Alternatively, in another implementation—for example for a disposable application—the reel 31 with the cover may also be a non-replaceable part of the roller 30.

[0080] To know or display the remaining length of the cover 40 on the reel 31, the housing 32 of the reel 31 and / or the winding device 30 may be formed with a travel indicator 38 or a fill indicator, configured to identify, estimate, or measure how much length of cover 40 is currently on the reel 31. Preferably, the travel indicator 38 has a length scale from which the remaining length in linear meters of cover on the reel 31 can be read. Preferably, the scale is set with higher values ​​from the outside in on the reel diameter, so that the cover under tension can unwind from the center of the reel and fit against the outer reel radius, thereby allowing reliable reading of the remaining length. In particular, the scale is non-linearly adjusted on the radius to account for the helical winding of the cover length.

[0081] The cover 40 is unwound from the reel 31 in its profile support area in the winding device 30 for mounting onto the profile guide 50. At this point, according to the invention, the cover 40—optionally attached to or alternatively to the profile guide 50—is elastically formed / deformed and positioned by the winding device 30, thereby installing / introducing the cover into the profile. Specifically, the cover is then retained by form fit; for example, by introducing the cover 40 into a retaining shape provided for this purpose, such as a longitudinal groove 51 or longitudinal rib of the profile guide 50. Examples and details of such cover deformation will be further illustrated in the following detailed views.

[0082] To install the cover, simply place the reel 30, with the cover 40 on its reel 31, against, press against, or snap into the profile guide rail 50. Initially, the cover should protrude at least slightly from the reel 30. During pressing, move or pull the reel 30—for example, sliding it—in the installation or movement direction 70 to guide the cover 40 into the profile 50.

[0083] "Luxxit" is the applicant's trademark, and in the accompanying drawings, the name has no other meaning than indicating that the device shown is marked by the trademark.

[0084] Figure 2a A general overview of the process of mounting the cover 40 to the profile guide rail 50 using the reel 30 of the present invention is shown. Specifically, a reel 31 (on which the cover 40 is wound, preferably having a length sufficient to cover the entire length of the profile) is inserted into the reel 30, for example, alternatively rotatably snapped into place at the center of rotation of the reel, as shown. The cover 40 is mounted to the profile guide rail 50 by means of the reel 30 in the area marked by circle 73. To make this process clearer, the profile guide rail 50 in this area is depicted in the figure with a lateral partial cut-off 71—this is possible in practice, for example, in branching, entry, special geometric boundary conditions, etc.—but typically the profile guide rail 50 is continuous on both sides without such a physical cut-off 71.

[0085] Figure 2b Enlarged again to show Figure 2a Detail view 73 is marked with a circle. For ease of identification, the cover 40 is shown here in a pattern, and—as previously stated—the profile 50 is drawn with a cut 71 to better illustrate the winding process. In the mounting device 30, the cover 40 is unwound from the reel 31 in the region of the profile 50 and positioned relative to the profile 50 in the mounting position by the guide element 34 and / or the forming element 36, while unwinding.

[0086] In particular, in the illustrated example, a cover 40 with a substantially rectangular cross-section is introduced into the profile 50. However, the invention is not necessarily limited to this rectangular cross-sectional shape. For example, the cover 40 may also have longitudinal grooves or longitudinal ribs and, for example, be formed into a flat U-shaped profile, the sides of which are designed to be held inside or outside the profile sidewalls of the profile 50, for example, by form fitting through appropriate shaping or force fitting under the elastic tension of the material. For lighting applications, the cover is at least partially transparent, preferably transparent or translucent, acting, for example, as a diffuser or light guide. Thus, light can be advantageously radiated through, for example, the lighting element 52 (not shown here) mounted in the profile 50 by the lighting unit fastener 53, and / or the light-emitting unit 52 can be physically and / or mechanically protected.

[0087] In lighting applications, profile rails 50 are typically opaque lighting profiles, mostly made of metal or plastic, such as extruded aluminum profiles, and are generally U-shaped. Profile width 54 and profile height 55 are typically in the range of approximately 8 mm to several (e.g., up to 10) cm, particularly in the range of 1 to 5 cm. These cross-sectional dimensions are typically much smaller than the profile length 56, which is usually significantly larger than 10 cm, often ranging from tens of centimeters to several meters. Profile rails 50 are typically formed with a cross-sectional shape that creates retaining structures, particularly longitudinal grooves 51 or longitudinal ribs 51 extending along the length 56. These structures are designed to accommodate lighting elements and / or covers 40 and hold them in or on the profile 50 in a form-fit manner.

[0088] With the aid of the introduced nose 36, the cover 40 is deformed within the elastic range of the cover 40 material, for example, bent or arched, and positioned in the mounting position, in this example below the upper edge of the profile 50. At this time, a guide element 34 may also be formed on the roll 30 below the cover 40 to further define the position and / or shape of the cover 40.

[0089] Figure 3 The image again illustrates the force applied to the 72-inch reel 30 and its movement along the profile 50. For this purpose, a guide rail 35 is advantageously formed on the reel 30, by which the reel 30 rests against and is guided relative to the profile 50. For example, the guide rail 35 may be slidable inside or outside the profile 50, supported in a defined position relative to the profile 50, and / or extend a certain length to define an angular orientation.

[0090] The reel 30 may have a locking device or locking shape in the area facing the profile guide rail 50, particularly at the guide rail guide portion 35 and / or the inlet nose 36, by means of which the reel 30 can be self-held in the profile guide rail 50. This locking shape is specifically configured to engage with the longitudinal groove or the cover retaining shape 51 (51a and 51b) when the reel 30 is pressed against it, thereby preventing the reel 30 from lifting off the profile guide rail 50, or allowing it to lift again only when an external counterforce is applied. In the accompanying drawings, this portion is obscured by the profile guide rail.

[0091] By introducing the shape of the nose 36 and guide elements 34, 34b, especially under the action of force 72, elastic deformation 41 is caused within the introduction length of the cover 40—visible here by the drawn cut 71—particularly the arching or bending of the cover. This reduces the width of the bent cover 40, allowing it to be easily introduced into the longitudinal groove 51 of the profile guide 50. Due to its elasticity, the cover 40 returns to its original shape after the introduction area and remains in the longitudinal groove 51 within that shape.

[0092] Alternatively or additionally, particularly for profile guide rails 50 made of sufficiently elastic material, the region of the profile guide rail 50 of the introduction cover 40 can be elastically expanded in the introduction area 71 by means of a reel 30 to facilitate or achieve introduction. This is particularly true, for example, by a corresponding expansion geometry of the guide rail guide 35 on the reel 30.

[0093] In another embodiment of the invention (not shown), the cover 40, instead of deforming downwards toward the profile interior 57 as shown, deforms upwards away from the profile 50 via the roller 30. In a preferred embodiment, the cover returns to its original cross-sectional shape, e.g., flat, after being introduced and elastically deformed. In a particular embodiment not currently claimed, at least a portion of the concave or convex deformation of the cover may be retained, for example, by the cover being clamped in the profile in a force-fit manner and unable to fully spring back. For example, this can also achieve different radiation characteristics of the luminescent band using (the same cover material).

[0094] The roll-up device 30 can be specifically designed for one or more different profiles 50 and / or for one or more different covers 40—especially regarding the shape of the guide rail 35, the inlet nose 36, and / or the guide element 34.

[0095] The roll-up device 30 can also roll multiple stacked films into the profile guide rail at once. For example, a roll may contain film 1 (inner side, milky white) and film 2 located above film 1, film 2 being designed as a microprism film or a light guide film.

[0096] In one embodiment, the roller 30 of the present invention can also be used as a “roller” to remove the cover 40 from the profile 50 onto the empty reel 31 by moving in the opposite direction 70 in a similar manner.

[0097] Here—for simplicity—not shown, the roller 30 may optionally be equipped with a cutting or slicing device for the cover 50. This device is preferably arranged in the inlet nose 36 area, for example with a blade, knife, or scissors, either directly on the roller 30 or on a guide device for the external cutting or slicing device. Alternatively or additionally, a cutting marking device may also be provided. Thus, the cover 40 can be cut, severed, scratched, or marked to the same length as the profile when it reaches the end of the profile.

[0098] Figure 4 The deformation 41 of the cover 40 by the roll-up device 30 of the present invention in the open introduction area 71 is clearly shown again. In particular, this deformation is caused by the introduction nose 36, which, in particular by its shape and arrangement, causes elastic deformation of the cover in the introduction area. For example, the introduction nose 36 is deeper in the central region of the profile than the lateral guide rail guides 35 or 35b, which rest on the profile 50, thereby deforming the cover 40, particularly corresponding to the shape of the introduction nose 36. The abutting force 71 shown in the previous figure plays an auxiliary role here, as this force acts downward through the introduction nose 35 in the central cross-sectional region of the cover, while the lateral support of the cover 40 on the profile 50—particularly in the longitudinal grooves 51a, 51b—generates an upward reaction force, thereby causing the cover 40 to bend elastically and reducing its width by the resulting bending radius, thus allowing the cover 40 to be easily introduced or snapped into the longitudinal grooves 51a, 51b. In particular, the cooperation between the nose 36 and the guide element 34, which serves as a counter-holding member, and / or the guide rail guide 35, which serves as a positioning aid, is also advantageous, especially in defining the position of the deformable 41 and the cover 40 in the introduction area.

[0099] In embodiments where the roll loader 30 has a snap-fit ​​design, the snap-fit ​​design is configured to allow the roll loader 30 to self-hold in the profile guide rail 50, and the force or reaction force of the deformation of the cover can also be caused or maintained wholly or partially by the snap-fit ​​connection.

[0100] Alternatively, the cover 40 can also be introduced indirectly into the profile as described in the present invention—for example, through connection with elements installed in the profile, such as the light-emitting unit 52.

[0101] Another example of an embodiment of the present invention is in Figure 5aAs shown in the accompanying drawings. The following description focuses primarily on the most significant differences from the previously described embodiments. Many variations or special features described above are equally or similarly applicable or combinable, even if not all are explicitly shown and / or described. To better illustrate the process, the cut-out window 71 is again drawn from the profile guide 50, which in practice typically does not physically exist.

[0102] The reel 30 is placed on the profile guide rail 50. This is achieved by introducing / positioning the guide rail guide 35 into the profile guide rail 50 and pressing the reel 30 against it. This establishes a defined position of the housing 32 relative to the profile guide rail 50. The reel 30 can be pressed against throughout use, but is preferably held on the profile guide rail 40 during use by the retaining element 35c, as described below, particularly in a manner that does not require continuous pressing. By the initial pressing, the cover 40 of the reel 30 may have been introduced into the longitudinal groove 51 provided for this purpose at the exit area of ​​the cover 40, and / or the retaining element 35c may be engaged. To wind the cover 40 from the reel 31 into the profile guide rail 50, the reel 30 is subsequently moved along the profile guide rail 50 in direction 70. Other reference elements may be formed as described above.

[0103] Figure 5b The winding process of this embodiment is illustrated in detail. For simplicity, the winding device 30 itself is omitted, so only the exemplary profile guide 50 and cover 40 are shown—and how they are guided by the winding device 30 according to the invention. At this point—viewed from the direction of movement 70 of the winding device—at the first position A, the cover 40 is first introduced into the longitudinal groove 51 of the first side 59a of the profile guide 50, while the other side of the cover 40 is still guided outside or above the profile guide 50 at this position A. This is achieved in particular by the winding device 30 having a corresponding geometric guidance after the cover 40 is unwound from the reel 31. For example, the cover 40 can be guided in the manner shown or similar by appropriately designed and formed stops or guide ribs. At the second position B, a longitudinal distance d from position A, the cover 40 is subsequently also introduced into the longitudinal groove 51 of the second side 59b of the profile guide 50—thus the cover is now introduced into the longitudinal groove 51 of the profile guide 50 on both sides 59a and 59b, thus completing the installation.

[0104] After the cover 40 is introduced, the cover is preferably introduced into or between the longitudinal grooves 51 in a non-clamping manner, especially in the installed state, the cover can be loosely located in and / or between the longitudinal grooves with a small gap.

[0105] At this point, between positions A and B, elastic torsion or twisting of the cover 40 can occur specifically along the longitudinal direction 56. In a preferred embodiment, the cross-section of the cover is undeformed or almost undeformed (particularly because this requires force), and preferably, the torsion or twisting occurs essentially only along the length of the cover (which requires less force than deformation). In particular, since the magnitude of the torsion is only the margin of the longitudinal groove 51 relative to the upper edge of the profile—which is typically kept small, especially for a substantially flush-closed cover—the required force can be reduced or minimized compared to other options. The required force can be further optimized, particularly by combining the sliding introduction of the cover 40 along a relatively long length of several millimeters along the edge of the longitudinal groove—this introduction occurs only on one side of the cover, while the other side is free or already introduced into the longitudinal groove 51.

[0106] Figure 5c A partial view of the cover 40 from the exit area of ​​the reel 30 is shown again, as... Figure 5a As shown. Here, an example embodiment of the previously mentioned retaining element 35c is more clearly visible; it is in the form of a resilient hook or nose, engaging below the lower rib of the longitudinal slot 51. With the aid of these elements, the reel 30—once inserted into the profile guide 50—is held on the profile guide, preferably also overhead. For example, when installing ceiling lighting, the reel 30 thus does not need to be constantly held by hand, but is automatically held on the profile guide, which, for example, simplifies or facilitates the movement of the ladder during installation. Accordingly, in Figures 5a to 8 In this embodiment, the pressing or abutting force 72 is no longer required—at most, the reel 30 only needs to be snapped into the profile guide rail 50 once (i.e., to snap the retaining element 34d in). The reel 30 can be pulled off or flipped off the profile guide rail 50 with a single force after the cover 40 is introduced, especially after the cover 40 is unloaded, when changing the reel 31, etc.

[0107] The figure also shows the opposing retainer 35, which serves as the lower part of the guide rail guide 35. The cover 40 is guided within the roll 30 between the opposing retainer 34 and the remainder of the housing 32, for example, to... Figure 5b The same or similar forms are shown. In particular, the cover 40 is guided to have the desired height on the desired side of the longitudinal groove 51 at the desired location A or B. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific geometry may optionally be different, as long as at least one function of the invention is achieved, such as mirror symmetry, the use of other spacing, or the design or shaping of the guides.

[0108] Figure 6a by Figure 5aFor example, an alternative, which can also be considered an independent invention, is shown for simple, safe, and accurate unloading of the cover 40 mounted on the profile guide rail 50 using a roll-up device 30. In this case, the device 39 provides cutting, trimming, or at least scratching of the cover 40 at a defined position and / or angle, for example, using an externally provided cutting tool 44 shown herein.

[0109] Figure 6b As Figure 5a In the partial view and exemplary embodiment shown, the roll loader 30 has a feeding device 39 with a cutting or slitting tool. Here, the device 39 is specifically defined in position relative to the profile 50, and preferably also defines an angle (e.g., 90 degrees or 45 degrees). In the illustrated example, it is particularly flush and parallel to the end of the profile guide or end cap 58. In other variations, instead of the blade 45 of the illustrated cutter, an internal blade 45, a saw blade, or scissors may be provided or provided.

[0110] Figure 6c An example of the lighting profile thus produced is shown, with LED strips 52 inside the profile rail 51, and the cover 50 precisely flush with the end cap 58—eliminating the need for length measurement or separate manual cutting before / after.

[0111] Figure 6d It was shown again Figure 6b A partial cross-sectional view around the device 39. The coiler 30, mounted on the profile guide rail 50, moves along the profile until it abuts against the profile end cap 58 by the guide rail guide or the stop 34b of the opposing retainer 34. Subsequently, using an externally or internally provided blade 45, the cover 40 can be safely and reliably cut at the correct position and angle by means of the device 30, which is correspondingly positioned and oriented relative to the stop 34d. If the coiler 30 is removed after cutting, the end of the cover 40, which has not yet been introduced into the longitudinal groove by the coiler, can be manually pressed into the groove to obtain… Figure 6c The result.

[0112] Figure 7 An example of the guide of the cover 50 in the roll 30 in one possible embodiment of the invention is shown. Please also refer to... Figure 5b The first side 59a is shown above, on which the cover is introduced into the corresponding first longitudinal groove 51a of the profile side at position A. Solid lines depict the cover 40 or its guide within the housing 32, or within its opposing retainer 34 and / or guide rail guide 35. Dashed lines depict the corresponding profile guide rail sides 59a, 59b and their longitudinal grooves 51a, 51b or the ribs forming these grooves, as well as a side view of the relevant profile cross-section.

[0113] Figure 8The view shown is of the roll carrier 30 viewed from below—that is, the side that abuts against the profile guide rail 50 or, for example, engages below the lower rib of the longitudinal slot 51 via retaining clips 35c. Specifically, the guide rail guide 35 of the housing 32 and the opposing retainer 34 are visible here. In relation to… Figure 7 At the same location, positions A and B and their longitudinal spacing 74 can be identified. At positions A and B, the cover 40, in addition to the above, Figure 7 In addition to the height positioning / guidance shown above, it is also laterally positioned / guided, as can be seen at the lateral exits of areas A and B, where the cover first extends laterally from the corresponding side.

[0114] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments and schemes shown or described in the different figures herein may be combined and interchanged in different ways for the purposes of this invention.

[0115] List of reference numerals

[0116] 30. Rollers, installation devices, installation tools, cover supply units

[0117] 31. Reel, cover, storage, replacement parts

[0118] 32. Reel holder, housing, housing body

[0119] 33. Finger rest and grip area

[0120] 34, 34b Guide elements, opposing retaining elements, lower support elements

[0121] 35, 35b Guide rail guide, profile guide, slider, positioning auxiliary parts, and snap-fit ​​device

[0122] 35c Retention or positioning buckle, buckle device, nose

[0123] 36. Nasal insertion

[0124] 38. Travel indicator, remaining travel length index, scale.

[0125] 39 Cutting aids, blade positioning or guides

[0126] 40 Coverings, diffused, translucent or transparent strips, cover profile strips

[0127] 41. Deformation, arching, arch shape

[0128] 44 Cutting or slicing tools, knives, utility knives, saw blades, scissors

[0129] 45 blades

[0130] 50 profile guide rails, lighting profiles, U-shaped profiles

[0131] 51, 51a, 51b Longitudinal grooves (first and second), cover retainer, cover retainer shape

[0132] 52. Light-emitting units, light-emitting devices, LED strips, LED bars

[0133] 53 Light-emitting unit fixing component

[0134] 54 Profile width, b

[0135] 55 Profile height, h

[0136] 56. Profile length, l. Profile longitudinal direction

[0137] 57 Profile interior

[0138] 58. End caps, covers, connectors

[0139] 59a, 59b First, second, or left and right profile sides

[0140] 60 Cover Installation Kit

[0141] 61 Lighting Rail Kit

[0142] 70. The direction of movement of the winding device 30 relative to the profile guide rail 50 (for installation), the unwinding motion, and the guiding motion.

[0143] 71. Partial sectional view, excision for illustration, introduction area

[0144] 72. Pressing force, contact force

[0145] 73 Detail view markers, circles

[0146] 74 Spacing, introduction spacing, d

Claims

1. A profile cover mounting device (30) designed for mounting a cover (40) onto a profile guide rail (50), Specifically, it is used to mount the preferred light-transmitting plastic cover (40) into the lateral longitudinal groove (51) of the U-shaped lighting profile guide rail (50), including • Outer shell (31) and • A reel (31) on which a cover (40) may be wound or already wound for use, • The spool (31) is rotatably inserted into or has been inserted into the housing (32), and • The outer shell (32) At least one guide rail guide portion (35) is formed, through which the housing (32) can abut against the profile guide rail (50) and / or engage in the longitudinal groove (51) at a defined position and can move along its longitudinal direction (56), and • The guide rail guide (35) is configured such that the cover (40) At the first position (A), a first longitudinal groove (51) is introduced along the longitudinal direction (56) on the first side (59a) of the profile guide rail (50), and At the second position (B), a second longitudinal groove (51) is introduced on the second side (59b) of the profile guide rail (50) along the longitudinal direction (56). The first and second positions (A, B) are spaced apart (74) from each other in the longitudinal direction, and in particular, are greater than 10 mm.

2. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, In position (A), at the inserted guide rail guide (35), a lateral stop for the cover (40) is formed on the housing (32), which provides relative positioning of the cover (40) relative to the first side longitudinal groove (51) so that the cover falls into the longitudinal groove (51).

3. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, In the first position (A), the cover (40) is guided deeper on the first side (59a), particularly at the height of the longitudinal groove (51), but not on the second side (59b), particularly where the height of the cover (40) on the second side (59b) is outside the longitudinal groove (51) or the profile guide (50); and In the second position (B), the cover is guided at the height of the longitudinal groove (51) on the second side (59b).

4. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The guide rail guide (35) has an opposing retainer (34) below the cover, the opposing retainer being arranged such that the cover (40) is guided between the housing (32) and the opposing retainer (34). Furthermore, the opposing retainer (34) is located below the height of the longitudinal groove (51) inside the profile guide (50) when the profile cover mounting device (30) is abutted or mounted on the profile guide (50).

5. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (32) forms a shape at the cover introduction area / end that positions the cover (40) at the height of the longitudinal groove (51) on the first and second sides (59a, 59b) of the profile guide, preferably supported from below by opposing retainers (34).

6. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (32) is formed together with the opposing retainer (34) in the regions of positions A and B. The opposing retainer is configured and arranged such that the cover (40) can pass between the guide rail guide (35) and the opposing retainer (34). In particular, the housing (32) also forms additional lateral guide elements (34b) to laterally position the cover (40) within the housing (32).

7. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The guide rail guide (35) has a snap-fit ​​shape (35c) configured to snap into the lower side longitudinal groove (51) of the profile guide rail (50), preferably so that the mounting device (30) is automatically held on the profile guide rail (50). Preferably, these snap-fit ​​shapes (35c) are formed on the opposing retainer (34) in the form of elastically movable hooks or snap-fit ​​noses, particularly at least four.

8. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The reel (31) is rotatably inserted into or has been inserted into the housing (32) in an interchangeable manner.

9. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The spool (31) or housing (32) forms a travel indicator (38), which in particular has a scale (38) showing the remaining length of the cover on the spool (31), preferably the remaining length scale (38) increases non-linearly from the outside to the inside, or the scale (38) increases from the inside to the outside when the spool (31) has a mechanical brake.

10. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The guide rail guide (35) has at least two crossbars or latching / holding devices (35c) spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (56) of the profile and along the width (54) of the profile. These crossbars or devices are configured to be placed laterally on the upper edge of the profile guide rail (50) and extend into the interior (57) of the profile and / or abut against a portion of the side of the profile guide rail (50) outside the width (54).

11. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The unwinding of the cover (40) from the reel (31) in the profile cover mounting device (30) is carried out in such a way that the cover (40) is guided at least approximately parallel to the profile guide rail (50) during unwinding.

12. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It is provided with a cutting or cutting device or cutting aid for the cover (50), in particular in the form of a blade (45) or a guide for the blade (45) of an external cutter (44), which can be used to cut, sever, scratch or mark the cover, particularly at a defined position in the longitudinal direction (56), which is adapted in particular by a stop (34d) on the guide rail (35) to the length of the profile guide rail (50) or the end cap (58) of the profile guide rail (50), preferably defined at an angle relative to the profile guide rail, for example 90 degrees or 45 degrees.

13. A method for mounting a cover (40) onto a profile guide rail (50), particularly for mounting a light-emitting cover onto a lighting profile, using an introduction aid, particularly using a profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims. The cover (40) is wound into the lateral cover retaining shape or longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail (50), including: - In the first position (A), the cover (40) is guided along the longitudinal direction (56) of the profile guide (50) such that the cover (40) is introduced into the first longitudinal groove (51) provided for the cover (40) on the first side (59a) of the profile guide (50). Especially at the height of the first longitudinal groove (51), In this position (A), the cover (40) is located outside the second longitudinal groove (51) on the second side (59b), particularly above. - The cover (40) is guided at a second position (B) spaced longitudinally (56) relative to the first position (A), such that the cover (40) is introduced into a second longitudinal groove (51) provided for the cover (40) on the second side (59b) of the profile guide (50). Especially at the height of the second longitudinal groove (51), In this position (B), the cover (40) is also guided on the first side (59a) at the height of the first longitudinal groove. In particular, guidance is achieved by introducing mechanical stops in the cover of auxiliary tools, and - An auxiliary tool is introduced and slids (70) along the profile guide rail (50) while the introduced cover (40) is unwound from the reel (31).

14. A cover mounting kit (60) comprising at least one profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and at least one cover (40), the cover preferably being wound on one or more reels (31).

15. A lighting guide rail kit (61) having at least one cover mounting kit (60) according to the preceding claim and at least one profile guide rail (50), preferably a lighting profile guide rail (50), wherein a light-emitting device (52) can be or has been placed, particularly at least one LED strip or LED bar (52).

16. A profile cover mounting device (30) designed for mounting a cover (40) onto a profile guide rail (50), particularly for mounting a translucent plastic cover (40) into a lateral longitudinal groove (51) of a U-shaped lighting profile guide rail (50), including • The outer casing (31) is preferably made of plastic or metal, and • A reel (32) on which a cover (40) may be wound or already wound for use, • The spool (32) is rotatably inserted into or has been inserted into the housing (31), and • The outer shell (31) forms at least one guide rail guide (35) through which the outer shell can abut against the profile guide rail (50) and / or snap into and move along its longitudinal direction (56) at a defined position, and forms at least one inlet nose (36) which is shaped and arranged such that the cover (40) is positioned and elastically deformed (41) by means of the inlet nose (36) during installation, so that the cover (40) can be introduced into the profile guide rail (50) in the area of ​​the inlet nose (36) and remain therein in a form fit manner after the elastic deformation (41) retracts.

17. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to claim 16, characterized in that, Its configuration is such that when pressed against and moved along the profile guide (50), the deformed (41) cover (40) retains its shape (51) in the nose area of ​​the cover that can be introduced into the profile guide (50), especially in the longitudinal groove, and the cover (40) remains in these cover retaining shapes (51) in a form-fitting manner when it elastically deforms (41) and retracts after being introduced into the nose (36).

18. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 17, characterized in that, The nose (36) is shaped and arranged such that it causes an elastic arch or bend in the cross section of the cover (40), in particular the nose (36) forms a rounded corner that protrudes downward toward the profile guide (50).

19. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The lowest point of the nose (36) is lower than the upper support surface of the guide rail guide (35) relative to the profile guide rail (50), which is designed to be placed on the upper edge of the profile guide rail (50).

20. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that, The cover (40) emerging from the profile cover mounting device (30) at the inlet nose (36) is placed laterally on at least one, preferably two, edges of the profile guide rail (50) during installation, thereby applying a force opposite to the abutment force (72) to the cover (40) when using the mounting device, which causes elastic deformation (41) of the cover (40).

21. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that, The housing (31) is formed together with the opposing retainer (34) in the inlet nose (36) region, the opposing retainer being configured and arranged such that the cover (40) can pass between the inlet nose (36) and the opposing retainer (34), and in particular the housing (31) also forms additional lateral guide elements (34b) for laterally positioning the cover (40) within the housing (31).

22. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that, An operating shape (33) is formed on the housing (32) through which the mounting device (30) or the inlet nose (36) can be pressed against the profile guide rail (50). In particular, the operating shape (33) is constructed and arranged to apply a pressing force (72) through which the inlet nose (36) and / or the guide rail guide (35) can be pressed against the profile guide rail (50).

23. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that, The spool (32) is rotatably inserted into or has been inserted into the housing (31) in an interchangeable manner.

24. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 23, characterized in that, The spool (31) forms a travel indicator (38), which in particular has a scale (38) showing the remaining length of the cover on the spool (31), preferably the remaining length scale (38) increases non-linearly from the outside to the inside, or the scale (38) increases from the inside to the outside when the spool (31) has a mechanical brake.

25. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 24, characterized in that, The guide rail guide (35) has at least two crossbars spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (56) of the profile and along the width (54) of the profile. These crossbars are configured to be placed laterally on the upper edge of the profile guide rail (50) and extend into the interior (57) of the profile and / or abut against a portion of the side of the profile guide rail (50) outside the width (54). In particular, the guide rail guide (35) has a snap-fit ​​design configured to snap into a cover retaining design (51) or a lateral longitudinal groove (51), preferably so that the mounting device (30) is automatically held on the profile guide rail (50).

26. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 25, characterized in that, The unwinding of the cover (40) from the reel (32) in the profile cover mounting device (30) is carried out in such a way that the cover (40) is guided at least approximately parallel to the profile guide rail (50) during unwinding.

27. The profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 26, characterized in that, It is provided with a cutting or slicing device for the cover (50), which is preferably arranged in the area of ​​the nose (36) and can be used to cut, slit, scratch or mark the cover.

28. A method for mounting a cover (40) onto a profile guide rail (50), particularly for mounting a light-emitting cover onto a lighting profile, using a deformation aid, particularly using a profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: The cover (40) is wound into the lateral cover retaining shape or longitudinal groove of the profile guide rail (50), including: - The cover (40) is pressed (72) against the profile guide rail (50) by the nose (36), the nose being constructed and shaped such that elastic deformation (41) and positioning of the cover (40) are achieved by the nose (36), thereby reducing the outer width of the cross-section of the cover (40) to a position that allows the cover to be positioned within its shape. - The pressed inlet nose (36) slides (70) along the profile guide rail (50) while the introduced cover (40) is unwound from the reel (32).

29. A cover mounting kit (60) comprising at least one profile cover mounting device (30) according to any one of claims 16 to 27 and at least one cover (40), the cover preferably being wound on one or more reels (31).

30. A lighting guide rail kit (61) having at least one cover mounting kit (60) according to the preceding claim and at least one profile guide rail (50), preferably a lighting profile guide rail (50), wherein a light-emitting device (52) can be or has been placed, particularly at least one LED strip or LED bar (52).

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