ARRANGEMENT FOR CONNECTING SUPPORT PROFILES OF A LIGHTING RAIL SYSTEM

Abstract

In a lighting support rail system with several interconnected support profiles, wherein the support profiles (100, 200) each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis (X) with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, having two side walls (110, 210) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis (X), and a connecting wall (120, 220) connecting the side walls (110, 210), wherein one of the support profiles (100) is provided at least in an axial end region with a connecting area also having a U-shaped cross-section, into which the other support profile (200) is telescopically inserted, special locking and unlocking elements (10, 40) are provided, with the aid of which the support profiles (100, 200) are detachably connected to one another.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to measures for connecting support profiles with which a lighting support rail system is formed. In particular, the present invention relates to locking elements and associated unlocking elements with which support profiles of a lighting support rail system can be connected to one another without tools and in a detachable manner.

[0002] Mounting rail systems for creating lighting systems are known in various forms from the prior art. For example, the applicant markets a system that has been on the market for many years under the name "TECTON." This system is primarily designed for the variable positioning and convenient control of numerous luminaires. However, the ability to also mount other components on the mounting rail system allows the system's functionality to be expanded in many ways beyond mere lighting. A special feature of the TECTON system is that the integrated power rails within the luminaire mounting rail system enable extremely flexible arrangement and power supply of electrical devices, allowing them to be positioned freely on the mounting profiles virtually anywhere along the entire system.

[0003] The present invention primarily relates to the basic design of the units supporting the other components of the lighting track system. Such systems typically have elongated support profiles that, for example, run in a series one behind the other or branch off from each other to form a support structure of any desired length and, if desired, also branched. Within these support profiles, which are often U-shaped in cross-section and open at the bottom, the power supply lines run. In the aforementioned TECTON system, these lines take the form of continuously contactable busbars. All other components of the system, such as luminaires or spotlights, are mechanically coupled to the support structure from below, and the electrical lines, as well as any other lines, are connected via these busbars.digital signals are transmitted for communication and control of the various components of the system, and contact is made.

[0004] Since the final structure of the system can be individually adapted to the external conditions and ultimately depends on the consumer's wishes, the corresponding mounting rail system is generally designed as a modular system. This means that a manageable number of differently designed support profiles are available, which are then mechanically connected to each other according to the desired overall structure. In this way, the support profiles can be connected, for example, in I, L, T, or X shapes, so that a wide variety of constructions for the entire lighting mounting rail system can be realized with manageable effort.

[0005] Since the resulting structure should exhibit a certain degree of stability, existing systems utilize, for example, specially designed mechanical connectors in the form of sheet steel profiles that engage with the end faces of two support profiles to be joined. In this case, the length of a corresponding lighting track system can be adjusted in discrete increments corresponding to the length of the available support profiles.

[0006] To allow for even greater system flexibility, it is also known to design the support profiles in such a way that they can be telescopically inserted into one another, at least partially, with the insertion length being variable to a certain extent. This allows the overall length of the system to be changed not only in predefined increments but also adjusted almost arbitrarily. Telescopic insertion is made possible by providing one of the two support profiles with a connector at its end face. This connector is designed to be larger than the standard cross-section of the support profile, allowing for the insertion of another support profile at its end face. This connector can either be an integral part of the first support profile, in which case its cross-section changes in the connection area, or it can be a separate support profile.

[0007] This approach requires that the telescopically connected support profiles be reliably secured and grounded in their retracted state, with securing measures beyond simple friction being particularly advantageous. Specifically, it should be ensured that even under significant axial forces, two connected support profiles cannot easily detach from one another.

[0008] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a simple way to secure telescopically nested support rail profiles to one another. In particular, this securing should be possible without tools and should also be easy to release if necessary.

[0009] The problem is solved by the components mentioned in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a locking element is proposed with the aid of which support profiles of a lighting track system can be connected to one another in a simple manner, in particular without tools. This locking element is attached to the end face of the aforementioned connector of a support profile and has detent elements which, when two support profiles are joined, detachably engage with the other support profile. The use of the locking element according to the invention thus makes it possible to easily slide two support profiles to be connected into one another until a position is reached in which the locking element engages with the other support profile, thus achieving a secure connection without the need for additional measures such as screwing, clinching, or the like.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a locking element for tool-free, detachable connection of support profiles of a lighting support rail system is proposed, • wherein the support profiles each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, with two side walls arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis and a connecting wall connecting the side walls, • wherein one of the support profiles is provided at least in an axial end region with a connection area also having a U-shaped cross-section, which is designed in such a way that the other support profile can be telescopically inserted into the connection area, • and wherein the locking element is attached in the connection area and has several locking elements which, in the joined state of two support profiles, detachably lock into the further support profile.

[0012] The locking mechanism according to the invention is preferably enabled by the locking element having two locking arms arranged on either side of the longitudinal axis, which are designed to engage in corresponding recesses of the further support profile. These locking arms can, in particular, each have outwardly projecting locking lugs designed to engage in the recesses of the further support profile, the locking arms preferably being slightly angled at their respective end regions. As explained in more detail below, with the aid of these chamfers, the locking of two support profiles can then be released again if necessary, and a defined bearing of a release element, which will be described below, can be achieved.

[0013] The locking arms can be angled along one of their extension directions in cross-section, preferably at an angle of approximately 90°. This ensures—as explained in more detail below—that the locking element is positioned in a defined manner relative to the supporting profile, thus guaranteeing reliable interaction between the locking projections and the corresponding locking recesses of the supporting profile. The locking arms can form part of two side wings arranged on either side of a connecting leg of the locking element, with the connecting leg then being designed for attachment to a connecting wall of the connection area.

[0014] In addition to the locking arms, the side wings can also have grounding arms, which have outward-facing projections designed to rest against the side walls of the support profile being connected. This creates a continuous electrically conductive connection between all support profiles, allowing the entire system to be grounded easily.

[0015] Preferably, the locking elements according to the invention are manufactured in one piece. In particular, they can be appropriately designed sheet metal parts. The locking elements are designed to be very space-saving, so that when arranged on the support profile, as much space as possible remains for the other elements of the system (e.g., a light tap / contact element, connecting cables, etc.).

[0016] The use of the locking elements according to the invention thus enables a tool-free, detachable connection of two support profiles. To release the connection, the aforementioned locking arms must be deflected in such a way that the corresponding projections no longer engage in the recesses of the other support profile, although this is often difficult to do manually due to the limited space available.

[0017] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it is therefore provided to additionally use a release element with the aid of which the connection of two support profiles can be easily released. The release element is designed such that it is movably arranged along the longitudinal axis on the connection area or the locking element and can be displaced from a starting position to a release position in which the release element releases the snap connection of the locking element with the other support profile.

[0018] According to this second aspect of the invention, a release element for releasing the connection of elongated support profiles of a lighting support rail system, which are detachably connected to each other by means of a locking element as described above, is thus proposed. wherein the unlocking element is movably arranged along the longitudinal axis on the support profile as well as on the locking element itself and can be moved from a starting position to a release position in which the unlocking element releases the latching connection of the locking element with the support profile.

[0019] Preferably, the release element can have release tabs arranged on a central area, which are designed such that, in the release position, they deflect the locking arms of the locking element in such a way that the latching connection between the locking element and the further support profile is released. The central area can be designed to abut the connecting leg of the locking element, so that the release element is inserted into the locking element accordingly and then, if necessary, moved into the release position. In particular, lateral guide projections and / or guide legs can be formed on both sides of the central area for this purpose, enabling a defined insertion of the release element into the support profile and / or the locking element.

[0020] The central area with lateral wings is particularly preferably designed to define a receiving area that enables the defined storage of an electrical connection or power supply element for the lighting track system. The release element according to the invention thus serves not only to release the snap-fit ​​connection of two interconnected support profiles, but also allows a corresponding electrical connection element to be arranged and securely stored in the connection area.

[0021] The unlocking element is also preferably made in one piece, preferably being a suitably designed plastic part.

[0022] According to the present invention, an arrangement for tool-free, detachable connection of elongated support profiles of a lighting support rail system is also proposed, • wherein the support profiles each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, with two side walls arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis and a connecting wall connecting the side walls, • wherein one of the support profiles is provided at least in an axial end region with a connection area that is also approximately U-shaped in cross-section and is designed in such a way that the other support profile can be telescopically inserted into the connection area, • and wherein the arrangement according to the invention comprises a locking element and an unlocking element as described above.

[0023] Preferably, the locking element and the unlocking element are designed such that the unlocking element, which is arranged on the locking element, is held in its initial position by spring force of the locking arms. In principle, the unlocking element is therefore always in its initial position, in which the locking of the locking element with the supporting profile is not affected. Only when necessary is the unlocking element briefly moved into the release position to disengage the locking connection. It then automatically slides back into its initial position.

[0024] Finally, according to the present invention, a lighting support rail system with several interconnected support profiles is also proposed, wherein the support profiles are detachably connected to each other by means of an arrangement as described above.

[0025] Overall, the present invention provides a means of easily connecting support profiles of a larger system, in particular connecting them without tools, whereby the locking connection provided for this purpose can also be easily released again if necessary by using the unlocking element.

[0026] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 the perspective view of two telescopically inserted support profiles which are to be detachably, in particular detachably without tools, connected to each other with the aid of the measures according to the invention; Fig. 2 the end face of one of the two support profiles; Fig. 3 in the lateral partial section the end area of ​​a support profile intended for connection with the locking element inserted therein; Fig. 4 a view of the support profile with the locking element from below; Fig. 5a a sectional view of the support profiles connected to each other by means of the locking element perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the system; Fig. 5b an enlarged partial view of Fig. 5a; Fig. 6a - 6d different views of the locking element according to the invention shown in isolation; Fig. 7 a view accordingly Fig. 3, wherein the unlocking element is now additionally arranged on the support profile; Fig. 8 a Fig. 4 corresponding view additionally with the unlocking element; Fig. 9a - 9f different views of the unlocking element according to the invention; Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 views of the interconnected support profiles with the electrical connection components incorporated therein; Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 corresponding views, now additionally showing an electrical connection element held by the unlocking element.

[0027] Based on the Fig. 1 and Fig. Section 2 will first clarify the problem underlying the invention, which will be explained in more detail below. This is illustrated in Fig. 1 The transition area between two support profiles 100 and 200, which are connected to form a lighting support rail system extending over a greater distance. Both support profiles 100, 200 have a U-shaped cross-section, each with two side walls 110, 210 arranged on either side of a longitudinal axis X, and a connecting wall 120, 220 connecting the side walls 110, 210.

[0028] The walls 110, 120, 210, 220 of the two support profiles 100, 200 thus enclose a longitudinally extending, underside-open receiving area, in which, primarily, cables (not shown in detail in the figures) for supplying power to connected devices run to the lighting track system. Analogous to the TECTON system, the cables (not shown) can be provided in the form of busbars, which are freely connectable along their entire length by the units to be connected. Providing discrete connection components at fixed positions would also be conceivable in principle.

[0029] The units to be connected will primarily be luminaires, such as linear lights, spotlights, or similar fixtures. However, modern track lighting systems also offer the option of connecting other components that support or automate the operation of the lighting system or provide additional functionalities. These additional units could include, for example, sensors, cameras, speakers, or even units for providing a wireless communication network. All units to be connected are designed with suitable contact elements that, when connected to the system, engage the mounting area of ​​the 100 and 200 mm support profiles from below and make contact with the cables running there.Mechanical fastening of these units to the support profiles 100, 200 by means of appropriate mechanical locking elements is also usually provided.

[0030] Since the support profiles 100 and 200 are generally only available in specific lengths for production reasons, it is usually necessary to connect several of these support profiles 100 and 200 together to ultimately obtain a stable structure on which all other components of the lighting support rail system can be mounted. In this case, the support profiles 100 and 200 are designed to be telescopically inserted into one another in a transition area, as shown in [reference to relevant document]. Fig. 1 is recognizable. To enable this, one of the two support profiles 100, 200, in the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1. The right support profile 100 is designed as a so-called connector or provided with a connection area such that the corresponding end face of the second support profile 200 can be inserted along the longitudinal axis X in a defined manner, preferably by means of corresponding interlocking contours ensuring that, due to a resulting positive fit, both support profiles 100 and 200 can only be moved relative to each other along the longitudinal axis X. In other words, relative movement of the interlocking support profiles 100 and 200 is not possible in directions deviating from the longitudinal axis X.

[0031] Both support profiles 100 and 200 have slightly different cross-sections, which allows for telescopic insertion. However, the shape of the mounting space for the lighting rail system should remain essentially unchanged even when interlocked, so that luminaires or other units can still be connected to the system in this overlapping area of ​​the interlocking profile sections 100 and 200. For aesthetic reasons, the configurations of the two support profiles 100 and 200 should also differ only slightly.

[0032] A special feature of the first support profile 100, which forms the connection area, is that in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the profile structures 111 on the undersides of the two side walls 110, which enable the mechanical fastening of the units to be connected to the system or can also be used to attach covers to the undersides of the support profiles 100, 200, do not extend completely to the end face 105 of the support profile 100. The end of these profile structures 111 marks the position to which the further support profile 200 is ideally inserted into the connection area.Since corresponding profile structures, not visible in the figures, are also provided on the undersides of the side walls 210 of the second support profile 200, but these now extend completely to the end face of the second support profile 200, this means that in the assembled state of the two support profiles 100, 200 these profile structures 111 are continued continuously over the entire length of the system.

[0033] It should be noted that the telescopic insertion of the support profiles 100 and 200 allows for a degree of flexibility in selecting the insertion length. This enables stepless adjustment of the overall system length as needed by not fully inserting the second support profile 200 to its end stop. In this case, a short gap may occur in the profile structures 111, potentially preventing the mechanical locking of units to the support profiles 100 and 200. However, this design offers the advantage that, as mentioned, the overall system length is not limited to predetermined length units but can be continuously adjusted as required.

[0034] Furthermore, it should be noted that the connection area, into which the telescopic insertion of the additional support profile 200 is possible, can, as shown, constitute an independent support profile 100. In this case, the support profile 100 would have the extended cross-section along its entire length, so that the additional support profiles 200 can be inserted from both sides. This support profile 100 is then often also referred to as a connector, and this term will also be used in the following. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable to design the support profiles in such a way that they only have a corresponding connection area at one end face, whereby this can be an integral part of the support profile or attached to it as a separate element.

[0035] The present invention primarily relates to the question of how the nested support profiles 100 and 200 are arranged in the Fig. The support profiles 100 and 200 can be secured to each other in a recognizable configuration such that they can no longer be moved relative to each other in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the longitudinal axis X, thus creating a stable connection between the two support profiles 100 and 200 in all directions. Of course, it would be conceivable to screw the nested support profiles 100 and 200 together or to lock them together in some other way. However, the solution described in more detail below offers the possibility of securing the support profiles 100 and 200 together without tools and, if necessary, releasing this locking mechanism without tools. This will now be explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0036] A first essential component of the concept according to the invention is formed by a so-called locking element, which is provided on the connector 100 and is generally designated by reference numeral 10 in the figures. This locking element 10 is preferably a one-piece, appropriately configured sheet metal part, which is shown in the illustrations of the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is arranged and fixed on the connecting leg 120 of the first support profile or of the connector 100.

[0037] According to the presentation in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The position of the locking element 10 is chosen such that this position coincides with the end of the previously described profile structures 111 at the lower ends of the side walls 110 of the connector 100. In other words, the locking element 10 is located at the point to which the further support profile 200 can be telescopically inserted into the connector 100 to its maximum extent. If, however, it is desired that, as mentioned above, the further support profile 200 is not inserted completely against the profile structures 111, the locking element 10 must be fixed at a correspondingly offset position on the connector 100. In the case of the Fig. 3 and Fig. The position selection shown in Figure 4 ensures that the further support profile 200 is fully inserted into the overlap area, thus ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of the profile structures 111. The locking element 10 can be attached to the first support profile 100 in various ways. It is essential that it is securely fixed to the first support profile 100, as it must absorb forces occurring between the two support profiles 100 and 200, particularly along the longitudinal axis X.

[0038] The design of the locking element 10 can in particular Fig. Figures 6a - 6d are shown. As already mentioned, it is a sheet metal part which, analogous to the support profiles 100 and 200, is approximately U-shaped and has a connecting leg 12, on the two sides of which two symmetrically designed side wings 20 are formed.

[0039] The connecting leg 12 is designed to be flat on its upper side and is intended to abut against the connecting leg 120 of the support profile 100, whereby several openings – or bores 13 – may be provided which can be used to fasten the locking element 10 to the support profile 100. As can also be seen, a central area of ​​this connecting leg 12 may optionally be slightly raised compared to the lateral areas.

[0040] On both sides of the connecting leg 12, the aforementioned side wings 20 of the locking element 10 are formed, which initially create two longitudinally extending locking arms 22 aligned with the second support profile to be inserted. As shown in particular in the view Fig. As can be seen from Figure 6b, the locking arms 22 are formed in the angled area of ​​a step 11, such that the locking arms 22 themselves form two essentially perpendicular legs or webs 23 and 24, which are slightly angled at the front end – i.e., by about 45°. This cross-sectional shape of the locking arms 22 is chosen such that they align as in the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b can be recognizably defined on a correspondingly angled profiled area of ​​the connector 100 or the second support profile 200, so that a centered, defined positioning of the locking element 10 is ensured. The configuration of the locking arms 22 or of the locking element 10 as a whole shown here is therefore adapted to the corresponding cross-sectional shape of the support profiles 100 and 200 to be connected. If necessary, it can therefore also be adjusted accordingly.

[0041] The axial locking of the further support profile 200 is then provided by outwardly pointing locking projections 25 on the vertically oriented legs 24, which are located in particular in Fig. 6b as well as in Fig. 6c are recognizable. In the combined state of both support profiles 100 and 200, which is in Fig. 5a and significantly enlarged in Fig. As can be seen in section 5b, these locking projections 25 engage in corresponding recesses provided on the support profile 200 to be inserted, so that a locking connection is achieved which prevents the support profiles 100, 200 from shifting towards each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis X.

[0042] The locking projections 25 are preferably designed such that they form a ramp, so that the corresponding webs 24 of the locking arms 22 are deflected automatically when the two support profiles 100, 200 are pushed together to achieve the locking connection, before they snap back into the locking position. The area of ​​the locking projections 25 opposite the ramp, however, is designed such that a step is formed, which prevents the locking connection from being unintentionally released when the second support profile 200 is pulled. Instead, in this case, the locking connection can only be released by deliberately moving both locking arms 22 into the Fig. The locking lugs 25 and the corresponding locking openings of the second support profile 200 must be pressed or deflected inwards in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5b to release the engagement. The axial locking between the two support profiles 100 and 200 can therefore only be released by a deliberate unlocking action.

[0043] As can be seen in the figures, it is preferably provided that further arms 30 are formed at the lower ends of the side wings 20 of the locking element 10, extending parallel to the direction of the locking arms 22 towards the second support profile 200 to be inserted into the connector 100. These further arms 30 are also provided at their front end region with an outwardly projecting, preferably sharp-edged or pointed projection 32, which, in the assembled state of the two support profiles 100 and 200, rests against the inside of the corresponding side wall 210 of the second support profile 200. The pointed shape of these further projections 32 is chosen such that they can, if necessary, penetrate an electrically non-conductive coating or paint finish of the second support profile 200 and thus come into direct contact with an electrically conductive base of the support profile 200.The function of these additional arms 30 is that, in the joined state of both support profiles 100 and 200, an electrically conductive connection usable for grounding is realized between the support profiles.

[0044] Ultimately, this means that the locking element 10 according to the invention must first be attached to the first support profile 100 or the connector in the desired position. In the following step, the further support profile 200 can then be inserted telescopically into the end face of the connector 100, as already described. The insertion process continues until the end face of the second support profile 200 deflects the locking arms 22 as described above, and upon reaching the final position, the projections 25 snap into the corresponding recesses of the second support profile 200. Simultaneously, the sharp or pointed projections 32 of the further arms 30 scrape along the inner sides of the side walls 210 of the further support profile 200, thus ensuring the aforementioned electrical connection used for grounding.In this state, both support profiles 100 and 200 are secured to each other and cannot be separated without additional measures. This results in a stable structure capable of reliably absorbing the forces generated by the weight of the connected units, even over a considerable length.

[0045] The design of the locking element 10, as shown in the figures, results in a very space-saving arrangement within the support profile 100, since the C- or U-shaped component nestles into the base area of ​​the support profile 100. This means that the cross-sectional area of ​​the support profile 100 is hardly affected, leaving sufficient space for other system components, such as contact elements for connected devices, connecting cables, and the like, which are arranged in this area.

[0046] The locking element 10 according to the invention thus enables several support profiles to be easily plugged together or connected to one another in a modular system and to be automatically locked together, so that the lighting support rail system can be easily assembled in its overall structure. If the support profiles 100, 200 are subsequently to be separated from one another, the locking effect of the locking projections 25 must be released. For this purpose, as described above, it is necessary to deflect or bend the locking arms 22, in particular the vertical webs 24, in such a way that the locking projections 25 can completely disengage from the corresponding locking recesses of the second support profile 200.Although this is generally possible by hand, it is relatively difficult to carry out due to the limited space within the support profiles 100, 200 and the fact that the associated angled end areas of the two webs 23 and 24 of the locking arms 22 are relatively small.

[0047] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, it is therefore provided that, within the framework of a further concept of the invention, a release element 40 is used in combination with the locking element 10, with the aid of which the locking between the two support profiles 100, 200 can be released again in a simple and convenient manner. This release element 40 is shown in various views in the Fig. 9a to 9f are shown, which Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows the connection area of ​​the first support profile 100 with the locking element 20 arranged therein and the additional unlocking element 40 arranged thereon.

[0048] Analogous to the locking element 10, the unlocking element 40 is also approximately U- or C-shaped, with a central section 42 and two lateral wings 50. The upper surface 43 of the central section 42, i.e., the side facing away from the lateral wings 50, is essentially flat and is designed to come into contact with the central leg 12 of the locking element 10. More precisely, the unlocking element 40 is designed to be inserted along the longitudinal axis X in the area of ​​the connecting leg 120 of the support profile 100 and then inserted into the locking element 10 in such a way that it is movably mounted there over a certain longitudinal area.

[0049] For this purpose, the central area 42 is initially limited at one end by a narrow web 44, the ends of which project slightly beyond the central area 42 on both sides, thereby forming small guide projections 44a. During the assembly of the release element 40, these guide projections 44a are inserted into corresponding grooves 122, which are formed by the profiled shape of the support profile 100 in the area of ​​the connecting leg 120. Simultaneously, two lateral arms 45 extend from the opposite end of the central area 42, the upper surface of each of which forms a guide leg 46 that widens in sections. These arms 45, more precisely the guide legs 46, are also designed to engage in the grooves 122 of the support profile 100, whereby the assembly of the release element 40 is then carried out as follows:

[0050] First, the unlocking element 40 is threaded into the end face of the support profile 100 – which is already fitted with the locking element 10 – using the two guide projections 44a. It is then inclined or tilted relative to the connecting leg 120 and moved along the support profile 100 until it reaches the position of the locking element 10. At this point, the end of the unlocking element 40 opposite the guide projections 44a is pressed by the arms 45 towards the connecting leg 120 of the profile section 100 or the locking element 10. Due to the expanding configuration of the guide legs 46, the arms 45 are initially deflected inwards before the guide legs 46 also snap into the grooves 122. The resulting assembly consisting of connector 100, locking element 10 and unlocking element 40 can then be used to insert the further support profile 200 and lock it into place with the connector 100.

[0051] The position of the unlocking element 40 in the longitudinal direction X is determined by a specific interaction between the locking element 10 and the unlocking element 40. On the one hand, the unlocking element 40 has unlocking webs 49 formed below the guide projections 44a; on the other hand, the side wings 50, which will be explained in more detail below, each have a positioning projection 55, which is particularly important in the Fig. 9f. The release lugs 49 and the positioning projection 55 interact with the angled end regions of the lugs 23 and 24 of the locking arms 22 of the locking element 40, respectively, as shown in the illustration of Fig. 8 the unlocking tabs 49 from the left against the tabs 24 and the positioning projections 55 from the right against the tabs 23.

[0052] The spring force of the locking arms 22 of the locking part 20 causes the unlocking element 40 arranged on the locking element 20 to be spring-loaded into a starting position on the locking element 20. In this position, which is particularly evident in a top view Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the hook-shaped release lugs 49 engage in the correspondingly angled front end regions of the vertical lugs 24 of the locking arms 22 of the locking element 20. However, the spring force exerted by the locking element 20 is so high that in this initial position the locking arms 22 are not yet deflected, and thus the locking projections 25 can engage in the corresponding recesses to axially secure the further support profile 200.

[0053] However, if the unlocking element 40 is now in the Fig. In the direction indicated by the two arrows (i.e., shifted to the right in the illustration), the release tabs 49 cause the tabs 24, and thus the locking arms 22 of the locking element 10, to be pushed towards each other, i.e., away from the side walls 110 of the support profile 100 and towards the interior. This corresponds to the actuation of the locking arms 22 required to release the locking mechanism of the support profiles 100 and 200, as previously mentioned.

[0054] In other words, by moving the release element 40 in the manner described above, the locking of the two support profiles 100, 200 to each other by the locking element 20 can be released. For this purpose, it can be provided, in particular, that a vertical wall section 47 is formed at the end of the central area 42 of the release element 40, to which the aforementioned release webs 49 are laterally connected, and over which the release element 40 can be easily moved manually. As can be seen in the figures, the corresponding actuation of the release element 40 is facilitated by the fact that this wall section 47 is concavely curved and provided with a knurled surface 48, so that the required actuation of the release element 40 can be carried out using only a single finger.

[0055] Just as the locking element 20 allows two support profiles 100 and 200 to be easily interlocked and thus axially secured to one another, the unlocking element 40 allows the locking mechanism to be easily released, if necessary, by simply actuating it, thus enabling the two support profiles 100 and 200 to be separated. The necessary locking and unlocking steps can be performed by a single person without the need for any tools, making the system very easy to assemble and disassemble.

[0056] The release element 40, which is preferably a one-piece component, particularly a one-piece injection-molded plastic part, can fulfill a further function. The side wings 50 can enclose a receiving area that can be used to hold additional system components. In particular, the release element 40 is suitable for the defined storage of electrical connection or linking components. Naturally, such components are often required in the transition area between two support profiles to be joined, in order to route the system's wires. However, due to the measures used for the mechanical coupling of the support profiles, the available receiving area often has circumferential or guide surfaces that are not precisely defined.This means that, as a precaution, the dimensions of connecting components to be arranged in this area are chosen so that they can definitely be placed there. In most cases, however, this then leads to the supporting profiles surrounding these connecting components with a certain amount of play, and consequently, a defined support for such elements is not achieved.

[0057] However, this inaccuracy can be compensated for by means of the wings 50 of the release element 40, which abut the side walls 110, 210 of the support profiles 100, 200, and a receiving area can now be created which, due to its appropriately shaped side walls, enables a defined storage of the electrical connection components or other components. In the illustrated case, the two wings 50 of the release element 40 are provided on their mutually facing inner surfaces 51 with vertically extending centering surfaces 53, which enable simple but reliable storage of, for example, an electrical connection element. These centering surfaces 53 are slightly angled along their entire longitudinal length, so that insertion areas are formed from both sides towards the center, which allow the insertion of the connection element to be stored.However, two central wall areas 54 of the centering surfaces 53 then run parallel to each other, so that they enable reliable support of the connecting element.

[0058] The aspect just described is in the Fig. 10 to 13 are recognizable, whereby the Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 shows initial views of the interconnected support profiles 100 and 200, in which corresponding conductors of a busbar 250 of the second support profile 200 are guided to just before the assembly formed by the locking element 20 and the unlocking element 40. When the support profiles 100 and 200 are joined together, a [missing word - likely "connection"] can then be [missing word - likely "connection"] in the Fig. 12 and Fig.13. A recognizable additional electrical connecting element 160 is used, which is then used, for example, for electrical coupling with components of the first support profile 100, whereby this additional connecting element can be arranged and held in the interior of the support rails 100, 200 as defined by the unlocking element 40 as described above.

[0059] Ultimately, the measures according to the invention, in particular the locking element and the cooperating unlocking element, enable support profiles for forming a lighting support rail system to be easily connected and separated from each other without tools. In addition, the components according to the invention also allow for the advantageous arrangement and positioning of electrical connection components in the transition area of ​​the two support profiles, so that the measures required to establish the necessary electrical connection can also be carried out in a simple manner.

Claims

[1] Locking element (10) for tool-free, detachable connection of support profiles (100, 200) of a lighting support rail system, • wherein the support profiles (100, 200) each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis (X) with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, having two side walls (110, 210) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis (X) and a connecting wall (120, 220) connecting the side walls (110, 210), • wherein one of the support profiles (100) is provided at least in an axial end region with a connection area also having a U-shaped cross-section, which is designed such that the other support profile (200) can be telescopically inserted into the connection area, • and wherein the locking element (10) is attached in the connection area and has several locking elements (25) which, in the joined state of two support profiles (100, 200), detachably lock with the further support profile (200). [2] Locking element (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that this has two locking arms (22) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis (X), which are designed to lock into corresponding recesses of the further support profile (200). [3] Locking element (10) according to claim 2, characterized by that the locking arms (22) each have outwardly pointing locking projections (25) which are designed to engage in the recesses of the support profile (200), wherein the locking arms (22) are preferably angled at their respective end regions. [4] Locking element (10) according to claim 3, characterized by, that the locking arms (22) are each angled in cross-section along an extension direction of the arms (22), preferably angled by about 90°. [5] Locking element (10) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by , that the locking arms (22) are part of two side wings (20) which are arranged on both sides of a connecting leg (12) of the locking element (10), wherein the connecting leg (12) is provided for attachment to a connecting wall (120) of the support profile (100). [6] Locking element (10) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the side wings (20) have grounding arms (30) in addition to the locking arms, which have outwardly pointing projections (32) intended to be placed against the side walls (210) of the further profile part (200). [7] Locking element (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized bythat it is made in one piece, preferably in the form of a sheet metal part. [8] Release element (40) for releasing the connection of elongated support profiles (100, 200) of a lighting support rail system, which are detachably connected to each other by means of a locking element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the release element (40) is movably arranged along the longitudinal axis (X) on the support profile (100) and / or the locking element (10) and is displaceable from an initial position to a release position in which the release element (40) releases the snap connection of the locking element (10) with the further support profile (200). [9] Unlocking element (40) according to claim 8, characterized by, that this has release tabs (49) arranged on a central area (42) which, in the release position, deflect the locking arms (22) of the locking element (20) in such a way that the locking connection with the further support profile (200) is released. [10] Unlocking element (40) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the central area (42) is designed to be attached to the connecting leg (12) of the locking element (10). [11] Unlocking element (40) according to claim 10, characterized by , that lateral guide projections (44a) and / or guide legs (46) are formed on both sides of the central area (42), which enable a defined insertion of the unlocking element (40) into the support profile (100) and / or the locking element (10). [12] Unlocking element (40) according to claim 11, characterized by, that the central area (42) with lateral wings (50) defines a receiving area which enables a defined storage of an electrical connection element for the luminaire mounting rail system. [13] Unlocking element (40) according to one of claims 8 to 12, characterized by that it is made in one piece, preferably in the form of a plastic part. [14] Arrangement for tool-free, detachable connection of elongated support profiles (100, 200) of a lighting support rail system, • wherein the support profiles (100, 200) each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis (X) with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, having two side walls (110, 210) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis (X) and a connecting wall (120, 220) connecting the side walls (110, 210), • wherein one of the support profiles (100) is provided at least in an axial end region with a connection area also having a U-shaped cross-section, which is designed such that the other support profile (200) can be telescopically inserted into the connection area, characterized by that the arrangement comprises a locking element (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7 and an unlocking element (40) according to one of claims 8 to 13. [15] Arrangement according to claim 14, characterized by , that the unlocking element (40) arranged on the locking element (10) is pre-tensioned to an exit position on the unlocking element (10) by spring force of the locking arms (22). [16] Lighting mounting rail system with several interconnected support profiles, • wherein the support profiles (100, 200) each have a profile section extending along a longitudinal axis (X) with a substantially U-shaped cross-section, having two side walls (110, 210) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal axis (X) and a connecting wall (120, 220) connecting the side walls (110, 210), • wherein one of the support profiles (100) is provided at least in an axial end region with a connection area also having a U-shaped cross-section, into which the other support profile (200) is telescopically inserted, characterized by , that both support profiles (100, 200) are detachably connected to each other by means of an arrangement according to one of claims 14 and 15.

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