Light source holder for a luminaire, luminaire with the light source holder and method for replacing a light source of the luminaire

Abstract

A light source support for a luminaire is provided. The light source support (1) comprises an elongated channel (1a) for receiving a light source (2), a number of tabs (9) arranged laterally on the channel (1a) for restricting the freedom of movement of the light source (2) transversely to the channel (1a). The light source support (1) further comprises a manually operable locking mechanism (3) for restricting the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a), wherein the locking mechanism (3) is designed such that the restriction of the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a) can be released by manually operating the locking mechanism (3). A luminaire and a method for replacing a light source of the luminaire are also provided.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to luminaires. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a light source support for a luminaire, the luminaire with the light source support, and a method for replacing a light source of the luminaire.

[0002] These are lighting devices or luminaires with light sources, in particular LED light sources in the form of LED modules and / or so-called light engines or alternators. To meet the requirements of the circular economy, it is advantageous to provide luminaires with replaceable components so that if one component fails, the entire luminaire does not have to be disposed of.

[0003] A key success factor for a future-proof luminaire is the ease of replacing core components, such as light sources or light source drivers. The market will only accept such solutions if replacing individual parts is cheaper, simpler, and faster than replacing the entire luminaire. Since a luminaire's lifespan can be ten years or more, customers should be able to rely on the fact that any replacement parts, which may change in shape and dimensions during this period, will fit the luminaire.

[0004] Light sources such as LED modules or light engines for professional LED luminaires are largely standardized, especially with regard to their dimensions, the placement of electrical connections or mounting points, see for example Zhaga Books 16 / 21 / 26 of the Zhaga Industrial Consortium.

[0005] Even though LED light sources have a long lifespan, they are still the most vulnerable components in a luminaire and exhibit a significant deterioration or loss of efficiency over extended use. Besides these economic aspects, other reasons, such as higher luminous efficacy, a different light color, or the desire for better color rendering, can also prompt a change in the original light source. Therefore, it is all the more important to ensure easy replacement of the LED modules in the luminaires. Special removable mounting or fixing elements are often used for this purpose, but these can sometimes be complex and difficult to handle.

[0006] One purpose of the present disclosure is to find a simple and cost-effective way to replace light sources in existing luminaires.

[0007] To solve this problem, a light source support for a luminaire is proposed, following a first aspect. The light source support can be designed, in particular, to hold a standard light source, especially in the form of an LED module designed according to an industry standard, for example, the Zhaga standard.

[0008] The light source support comprises an elongated channel or trough for receiving a light source. In particular, the channel can have a substantially planar channel base for receiving a substantially planar support substrate for the light source.

[0009] The light source support further comprises a number of tabs arranged laterally on the channel to restrict the light source's freedom of movement transversely to the channel, particularly with respect to the light source support. For example, the tabs can be designed to prevent lateral displacement of the light source transversely to the channel and / or lifting of the light source from the channel floor.

[0010] The light source support also includes a manually operated locking mechanism to restrict the light source's freedom of movement along the channel. Restricting the light source's movement along the channel, or in its longitudinal direction, prevents it from changing its longitudinal position or slipping out through a free end of the channel.

[0011] The fixing mechanism is designed in such a way that the restriction of the light source's freedom of movement along the channel can be lifted by manually operating the fixing mechanism.

[0012] Removing the restriction on freedom of movement in the longitudinal direction makes it possible to move the light source along the channel, for example to remove the light source through an open end of the channel and / or to insert it into the channel.

[0013] The light source carrier thus enables easy tool-free attachment and unlocking of light engines, so that standardized, for example Zhaga-compatible and / or proprietary, light engines or LED modules can be quickly and easily replaced.

[0014] The locking mechanism can be configured to assume a first position for locking the light source and a second position for unlocking the light source. In particular, the locking mechanism can be configured such that it can be moved from the first position to the second position by a simple manual operation.

[0015] The locking mechanism can be designed to move from the second position to the first position by means of a spring force. In particular, the locking mechanism can have a spring mechanism for moving the locking mechanism to the first position when it is released. The spring mechanism thus enables automatic locking of the light source mounted on the light source holder.

[0016] In some embodiments, the light source support, including the channel, the number of tabs, and the fixing mechanism, is formed in one piece. In particular, the light source support, including the channel, tabs, and fixing mechanism, can be formed from a single sheet metal part. This allows the number of components, the complexity, and the manufacturing costs of the light source support to be kept low.

[0017] The fixing mechanism can comprise at least one fixing tongue for fixing a longitudinal position of the light source. The fixing tongue can, in particular, be formed as part of the sheet metal forming the light source support, especially as a cut-out or punched-out element. This allows the fixing mechanism to be implemented in a particularly cost-effective manner.

[0018] In some embodiments, the light source support is made of a soft and tough, or plastically deformable, metal. Due to the support's plastic deformability, the fixing tongue lacks elastic spring action. The fixing tongue can therefore be easily bent manually and then remains in the last bent position, which can simplify the removal and installation of the light source or LED module.

[0019] The fixing tongue can, in particular, have at least one edge, bending edge, or lug for engaging a corresponding recess or notch in the light source. The edge of the fixing tongue can, in particular, be designed to engage a recess in a standard light source positioned on the carrier, thus restricting the longitudinal movement of the light source. By adapting the fixing lug to a standard light source, the light source carrier can be used for a variety of light sources.

[0020] The locking mechanism can include an actuating element or actuator, or a handle for operating the locking mechanism. The actuating element allows for ergonomic and simple operation of the locking mechanism.

[0021] The fixing tongue can include at least one thinning or recess for locally influencing its mechanical properties. In particular, the fixing tongue can comprise a free end and a fixed end or base opposite the free end, with the thinning being located near the fixed end. The thinning can be used to selectively reduce the stiffness of the fixing tongue. Furthermore, a predetermined bending point can be defined in the fixing tongue to ensure reliable and reproducible functionality of the fixing mechanism.

[0022] A second aspect involves the provision of a luminaire. This luminaire comprises a light source carrier as described in the first aspect, with a light source housed within the channel of this carrier. The movement of the light source along the channel is restricted by a locking mechanism, which can be manually released by actuating the locking mechanism. The luminaire is characterized by the particularly easy interchangeability of the light source.

[0023] A third aspect provides a method for replacing a light source according to the second aspect. Depending on the embodiment, the method may further include disconnecting and / or connecting electrical contacts to the light source.

[0024] The procedure involves actuating the locking mechanism to remove the restriction on the light source's freedom of movement along the channel. Actuating the locking mechanism allows it to be moved from the first position to the second position, thus freeing the locking mechanism from obstructing the light source's longitudinal movement.

[0025] The method further comprises removing at least part of the light source by sliding it along the channel and inserting a new light source into the channel. The new light source can, in particular, be designed according to the same standard as the light source previously used in the luminaire.

[0026] The process also includes positioning the light source within the channel so that its movement along the channel can be restricted by the locking mechanism. With spring-loaded locking tongues, the new light source can be locked automatically, primarily due to the spring force. With plastically deformable locking tongues, however, the new light source can be locked manually after it has been correctly positioned.

[0027] The process thus enables easy and tool-free replacement of standard light sources, such as light engines or LED modules.

[0028] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The same reference numerals are used in the figures for identical or equivalently functioning parts. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a light source carrier with a light source according to an embodiment, wherein the fixing mechanism of the light source carrier is in a first position, Fig. 2 shows the light source carrier with the light source according to Fig. 1, wherein the fixing mechanism of the light source carrier is in a second position, Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic rear view of a light source support according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic rear view of a light source support according to a further embodiment, Fig. Figure 5 shows a perspective rear view of a light source support with a light source according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 shows a perspective detail view of the light source support according to Fig. 5, Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective front view of the light source support and the light source according to Fig. 5, and Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a method for replacing a light source in a lamp according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a light source support with a light source according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the fixing mechanism of the light source support is in a first position. In particular, it shows Fig. 1 the light source carrier 1, the light source 2 and the fixing mechanism 3 in cross-section.

[0030] The light source 2 is designed in the form of a linear LED module and has a number of LEDs arranged on a substrate, in Fig. 1 not shown.

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the light source support is made of sheet metal or is designed as a sheet metal profile, which is shaped to form a channel 1a for receiving the light source 2.

[0032] The fixing mechanism 3 is designed in the form of a fixing tongue, which is also formed from the metal sheet of the light source carrier 1.

[0033] The fixing tongue 3 has an edge 4 or bending edge for engaging in a recess 5 of the light source 2.

[0034] In the Fig. In the first position of the fixing mechanism 3 shown in Figure 1, the fixing tongue 3 engages in the recess 5 of the light source 2 and prevents movement of the light source 2 along the channel or along a normal to the image plane.

[0035] Fig. 2 shows the light source carrier with the light source according to Fig. 1, wherein the fixing mechanism of the light source carrier is in a second position. In the second position of the fixing mechanism 3, the fixing tongue 3 is raised so that it does not engage in the recess 5 of the light source or the substrate of the LED module.

[0036] Light source 2 is therefore unlocked and can be moved along channel 1a.

[0037] The fixing tongue 3 can be raised by manual operation of the fixing tongue 3, for example by lifting a free end of the fixing tongue 3 with the hand or with the finger.

[0038] Due to the elasticity of the metal sheet, an elastic restoring force can form, which returns the locking tongue to its first position after actuation, cf. Fig. 1 above.

[0039] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic rear view of a light source support according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] In the rear view of the Fig. Figure 3 shows in particular a rectangular segment of the light source carrier 1 with the fixing mechanism 3.

[0041] Similar to in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 The fixing mechanism 3 is designed as a fixing tongue, which has been cut out of the metal sheet of the light source support 1. The opening 6 formed by cutting out the metal sheet is in Fig. 3 clearly recognizable.

[0042] The fixing tongue comprises a free end and a fixed end or base opposite the fine end, with a thinning 7 formed at the base of the fixing tongue.

[0043] By thinning 7, the stiffness of the fixing tongue at the base can be specifically reduced, so that the fixing tongue can be moved from position 1 to position 2 with less force.

[0044] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic rear view of a light source support according to a further embodiment.

[0045] The exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 4 essentially corresponds to the embodiment of the Fig. 3, wherein an actuating element 8 in the form of a circular extension is formed at the free end of the fixing tongue 3.

[0046] The actuating element 8 allows the fixing tongue to be moved from its original position or first position (see Fig. 1) Pull upwards so that the edge or nose of the fixing tongue 3 lies outside the recess 5 or the LED module cutout. In this position 2 (see Fig. 2) The LED module can be slid into the channel or compartment and removed from the compartment in the same way. After inserting the new LED module, the retaining tab can be pushed back into its original position 1.

[0047] The user or installer can operate the locking mechanism or locking tongue easily and conveniently using the actuating element 8. In particular, the actuating element 8 can have an ergonomically advantageous shape, for example, rounded, and ensure better visibility of the actuating point of the locking mechanism.

[0048] Fig. Figure 5 shows a perspective rear view of a light source support with a light source according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] The light source carrier 1 is designed in the form of a sheet metal profile and has a channel 1a or tray or compartment for receiving the light source 2 or the LED module.

[0050] In the view of Fig. Figure 5 clearly shows the fixing tongue 3 and the opening 6 in the light source carrier 1.

[0051] Furthermore, tabs 9 for confining the light source 2 are visible. In particular, tabs 9 are designed to restrict the freedom of movement of the light source 2 transversely to the channel, especially laterally or perpendicularly to the channel floor. The tabs 9, as well as the fixing tongue 3 and the channel 1a, are formed integrally within the sheet metal profile of the light source support 1.

[0052] Fig. Figure 6 shows a perspective detail view of the light source support according to Fig. 5. In particular, it shows Fig. 6 a partial view of the back of the light source carrier 1 with the light source 2 included therein.

[0053] In the detailed view of the Fig. In addition, the actuating element 8 of the fixing tongue 3 in the form of a rounded free end is clearly visible in 6.

[0054] In the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 6, the fixing mechanism or the fixing tongue 3 is in the first position, so that a sliding movement of the light source 2 along the channel 1a is blocked by the fixing tongue 3.

[0055] Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective front view of the light source support and the light source according to Fig. 5.

[0056] In the front view of the Fig. Figure 7 shows the front side of the light source 2 or the LED module with the individual LEDs 10. Furthermore, the recess 5 or the notch in the substrate of the LED module with the fixing tab inserted therein is clearly visible.

[0057] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a method for replacing a light source in a lamp according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] The luminaire may, in particular, have a light source carrier with a light source according to the first aspect.

[0059] Method 100 comprises actuating 110 the locking mechanism to release the restriction on the light source's freedom of movement along the channel. Actuating the locking mechanism in method step 110 may, in particular, involve actuating an actuating element of a locking tongue. The locking mechanism may be moved from a first position, or from a locked position, to a second position, or from an unlocked position.

[0060] Method 100 further comprises removing 120 the light source at least partially by pushing the light source out along the channel, inserting 130 a new light source into the channel, and positioning 140 the light source in the channel so that the freedom of movement of the light source along the channel can be restricted by the fixing mechanism. In some embodiments, the method comprises actuating 150 the fixing mechanism to bring it into a locked position.

[0061] In particular, in process step 140 the light source can be positioned so that the recess of the light source is opposite the fixing tongue.

[0062] With spring-loaded locking tongues, the new light source can be locked automatically, primarily due to the spring force. Because of the spring mechanism or the elastic restoring force of the locking tongue, the tongue can engage in the recess or notch of the light source and lock it automatically, thus eliminating process step 150.

[0063] With plastically deformable fixing tongues, the new light source can be manually locked in place after it has been correctly positioned. The fixing tongue then remains in its last bent position, which can simplify the process of removing and fixing the light source or LED module.

[0064] Before the fixing mechanism is activated in process step 110, electrical connections can be disconnected or the light source can be made electrically connected. Similarly, after the light source has been positioned in process step 140, it can be electrically connected.

[0065] In some embodiments, the electrical connection is automatically disconnected when the light source is removed from the luminaire or from the light source holder. Similarly, contacting the new light source can occur automatically when it is correctly positioned on the holder. This can be achieved, for example, by pressure contacts on the back or front of the LED substrate and counter-pressure contacts on the base of the light source holder and / or tabs.

[0066] This process enables a particularly simple and largely tool-free replacement of light sources in luminaires. In particular, Zhaga-compatible luminaires can be easily retrofitted with new light sources without tools. This speed and ease of light source replacement can significantly contribute to the success of future luminaires, as the market will favor economically attractive solutions.

[0067] The proposed light source support and the proposed method for replacing light sources, for example in ceiling lights, can make it possible to secure LED modules against horizontal movements and to lock or unlock them without tools.

[0068] Because the fixing tongue is part of the bracket itself, securing the light source requires no additional parts such as springs, sliders, clamps, or screws. This eliminates the possibility of losing parts that could fall out during the replacement process.

[0069] Depending on the design, the locking tongue can be operated purely manually, especially without pliers or screwdrivers, or especially additionally with a tool.

[0070] The fixing mechanism, or fixing tongue, can be manufactured within the existing process steps of metal carrier production. Because the same material is used for both the carrier and the fixing tongue, the uniformity of the visual appearance is not affected.

[0071] Furthermore, the hole of the cut-out window or opening is covered by the LED module and is therefore not visible from the front, thus avoiding negative optical effects such as dark spots, especially when the light is switched off.

[0072] Unlike plastic fixing parts, the fixing tongue formed from the metal sheet of the carrier is insensitive to higher or lower temperatures or UV light, as it is made of the same material as the metal rail and its fixing or handling behavior does not change over time.

[0073] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been shown in the preceding description, various changes and modifications can be made. The embodiments mentioned are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure in any way. Rather, the preceding description provides the person skilled in the art with a plan for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment, whereby numerous changes can be made to the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Furthermore, according to the principles described herein, several modules or several products can also be combined to obtain additional functions. Reference symbol list 1 light source carrier Channel 1a 2 light sources 3 Fixing mechanism 4-edge 5 Exclusion 6 Opening 7 Thinning 8 Actuating element 9 tab 10 LED 100 methods for replacing a light source 110 Actuating the locking mechanism 120 Removing the light source 130 Inserting the new light source 140 Positioning the new light source

Claims

[1] Light source carriers, comprising: - an elongated channel (1a) for receiving a light source (2), - a number of tabs (9) arranged laterally on the channel (1a) to restrict the freedom of movement of the light source (2) perpendicular to the channel (1a), and - a manually operable locking mechanism (3) for restricting the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a), wherein the locking mechanism (3) is designed such that the restriction of the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a) can be removed by manually operating the locking mechanism (3). [2] Light source carrier according to claim 1, wherein the fixing mechanism (3) is configured to assume a first position for locking the light source (2) and a second position for unlocking the light source (2). [3] Light source carrier according to claim 2, wherein the fixing mechanism (3) is designed to move from the second position to the first position by means of a spring force. [4] Light source carrier according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source carrier (1) including the channel (1a), the number of tabs (9) and the fixing mechanism (3) is formed in one piece. [5] Light source carrier according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing mechanism (3) comprises at least one fixing tongue for fixing a longitudinal position of the light source (2). [6] Light source carrier according to claim 5, wherein the at least one fixing tongue (3) has at least one edge (4) for engaging in a corresponding recess (5) of the light source (2). [7] Light source carrier according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing mechanism (3) comprises an actuating element (8) for actuating the fixing mechanism (3). [8] Light source carrier according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the fixing tongue has at least one thinning (7) for locally influencing mechanical properties of the fixing tongue. [9] Luminaire with a light source carrier (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a light source (2) is received in the channel (1a) of the light source carrier (1), and wherein the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a) is restricted by the fixing mechanism (3), so that the restriction of the freedom of movement of the light source (2) along the channel (1a) can be removed by manual actuation of the fixing mechanism (3). [10] Method for replacing a light source in a luminaire according to claim 9, comprising: - Actuating (110) the locking mechanism to remove the restriction of the light source's freedom of movement along the channel, - Removing (120) the light source at least partially by sliding the light source along the channel, - Inserting (130) a new light source into the channel, - Positioning (140) the new light source in the channel so that the movement of the light source along the channel is restricted by the fixing mechanism.

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