Connector for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear to an elongated lighting support

Abstract

Connectors (1, 1') for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear (50) with an elongated lighting support (80), comprising: - a base section (2), wherein the base section (2) has two base ends (21, 22) facing away from each other, which are configured to be connected to the light carrier (80), and - a guide (4) wherein the guide (4) has two mutually facing guide sections (41, 42) which are designed to guide and hold at least a part of the lighting control gear (50).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear with an elongated lighting support, an arrangement of several such connectors and a lighting system comprising such a connector.

[0002] A lighting support bracket offers the possibility of mounting various devices, especially one or more lights. For example, a device, particularly a light, can be easily attached to a lighting support bracket at any desired location. Furthermore, the lighting support bracket can provide electrical power and / or control for the devices it supports. Lighting support brackets offer the particular advantage of providing a simple mounting solution for lights and other equipment required for them. Lighting support brackets are known, for example, under the trade name TECTON.

[0003] It has now become apparent that certain lighting control gears are difficult or even impossible to mechanically connect to the luminaire support. There is also a need to make the luminaire support, and thus the lighting system incorporating it, as lightweight as possible. For example, a TECTON-C luminaire with a corresponding TECTON bar, measuring two meters in length, can weigh approximately three kilograms. Furthermore, the manufacturing and / or assembly of lighting systems featuring a luminaire support as described above should be as simple as possible.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the invention to overcome one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, the mechanical connection between the lamp holder and a lamp control gear is to be optimized, especially simplified and / or streamlined.

[0005] These and other problems, which will be mentioned in the following description or which can be recognized by a person skilled in the art, are solved by the subject matter defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims further develop the central idea of ​​the invention in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a connector for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear to an elongated lighting support, in particular a lighting or busbar. The connector comprises: a base section, wherein the base section has two base ends facing away from each other, which are configured to be connected to the lighting support; and a guide, wherein the guide has two guide sections facing each other, which are configured to guide and hold at least a part of the lighting control gear.

[0007] This allows for a simple mechanical connection between the lighting control gear and the luminaire support. In particular, it eliminates the need for conventional holders used with such lighting control gear, such as aluminum profile holders. The connector offers a simple mechanical connection to the luminaire support. If, for example, the connector is at least partially located within a space defined by the luminaire support, the base ends, and thus the connector itself, can be mechanically connected to the luminaire support by rotating the connector around an axis of rotation, preferably perpendicular to the base section. The base ends can then be moved, for example, into opposing side channels of the luminaire support, where they are preferably held in place by clamping.

[0008] In one embodiment, the base ends can be moved into side channels of the light carrier by rotating the connector about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the base section.

[0009] The connector can have a connector positioning structure designed to interact with a (particularly corresponding and / or complementary) luminaire support positioning structure to ensure a defined position of the connector relative to the luminaire support. This ensures that the connector is mounted in the correct position on the luminaire support to guarantee a secure mechanical connection between the luminaire control gear and the luminaire support. In particular, this ensures that when multiple connectors are used, they are easily and evenly distributed along the longitudinal axis of the luminaire support.

[0010] Preferably, the axis of rotation extends through the connector positioning structure.

[0011] The connector positioning structure can have an opening, in particular a through-opening, and / or a projection, in particular a stud. For example, the connector positioning structure is an opening and the luminaire support positioning structure is a projection, wherein, if the projection is at least partially provided in the opening, the defined position of the connector relative to the luminaire support is achieved. In this state, an axis of rotation can be defined by the connection between the opening and the projection, wherein the connector can be mechanically connected to the luminaire support by rotating about this axis of rotation, in which the base ends are provided in side channels of the luminaire support, preferably in a clamping manner.

[0012] It is preferred if the base section incorporates the connector positioning structure. For example, the connector positioning structure can be located centrally within the base section. In particular, it can be provided that the base ends are equidistant from the connector positioning structure.

[0013] The connector can include a mounting structure for attaching a luminaire component to the connector. The luminaire component can, in particular, include a housing, optics, and / or another, preferably elongated, connector, such as a support. This allows the luminaire component to be at least partially attached via the connector. The mounting structure therefore does not need to be provided on a separate component or the luminaire support, which simplifies the manufacturing and / or assembly, especially of the luminaire support and / or a luminaire system. In particular, the mounting structure preferably makes it possible to transform a luminaire from a support system, especially a mounting rail system, into an independent luminaire – a so-called "stand-alone luminaire."

[0014] The mounting structure may have an opening and / or a thread. In particular, the light fixture may be attached to the mounting structure by means of a fastener, such as a screw.

[0015] The guide sections can (each) be U-shaped.

[0016] The connector may have a guide element arranged to form at least part of one of the guide sections. The connector preferably has a further guide element arranged to form at least part of the other guide section. The guide element and the further guide element may be arranged in a common plane, mirror-symmetrically, and / or parallel to each other.

[0017] The guide element, and preferably the subsequent guide element, can be plate-shaped. This results in a connector that is particularly easy to manufacture and also compact.

[0018] The mounting structure can be provided at least partially within the guide element and preferably at least partially within the further guide element. Thus, the guide element simultaneously provides a means for at least partially mounting the luminaire component.

[0019] The base ends can be plate-shaped. This results in a connector that is particularly easy to manufacture and also compact.

[0020] The base ends can be angled. Each base end can, for example, have a first section that runs obliquely with respect to another section of the respective base end.

[0021] The angled shape allows for a simple clamping effect of the respective base end in the corresponding side channel of the light fixture. This clamping effect is preferably achieved by the angled section of the base end being elastically deformed due to the (narrower) side channel when it is positioned within the channel.

[0022] The base ends can each have one or more chamfered corners. This facilitates the insertion of the base ends, especially when angled, into the side channels. The chamfered corners can thus act as a kind of starting ramp.

[0023] At least a part of the base section, in particular a non-angled part of the base section, and at least a part of the guide, in particular the guide element and preferably also the further guide element, can be parallel to each other.

[0024] The base section and the guide, especially the guide sections, can be formed as a single piece (integrally).

[0025] The connector can have a connecting structure that connects the base section to the guide.

[0026] The connecting structure can form part of one or each of the guide sections. For example, the guide element forms an upper (i.e., furthest from the base section) part of one of the guide sections, and the connecting structure forms a lower (near the base section) part of one or each of the guide sections.

[0027] The guide may have a base that connects the guide sections, with the connecting structure providing or having the base.

[0028] The connecting structure can have one or more ribs. This ensures a particularly stable connection between the guide and the base section. The ribs can be angled relative to the base section and / or the guide.

[0029] The connecting structure can be arranged so that, in a top view of the guide, it at least partially covers the connecting positioning structure. This allows the connector positioning structure to be arranged in a particularly space-saving manner within the connector. For example, the connecting structure can have a recessed area that is accessible via the connector positioning structure. For instance, if the luminaire support positioning structure is connected to the connector positioning structure, for example by at least partially providing a projection in the through-opening, the luminaire support positioning structure (for example, in the form of a projection) can be provided at least partially within the recessed area of ​​the connecting structure.

[0030] The connector may have retaining structures (for example, a channel or a clip) for holding one or more electrical conductors.

[0031] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to an arrangement of several connectors as described above, wherein the connectors are preferably arranged along a longitudinal axis.

[0032] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a lighting system comprising: an elongated lighting carrier with side channels extending along its longitudinal axis and facing each other; and a connector as described above, the base ends of which can be moved into the side channels of the lighting carrier by rotating the connector about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the base section.

[0033] The lighting system may include a lighting component that is attached or attachable to the connector.

[0034] The lighting component can, for example, include a housing component, optics and / or another, preferably elongated, connector.

[0035] The housing component can have an opening from which the lighting control gear can protrude. This provides a space-saving housing while simultaneously offering good protection for the lighting control gear. Alternatively or additionally, the opening can be used to position the lighting control gear, which is guided and held by the connector, relative to the luminaire support.

[0036] The housing part is preferably designed to be non-load-bearing, i.e., it is not intended to hold the lighting control gear, but for example only to position it and / or to protect active and / or passive electrical components.

[0037] The lighting system may include a grounding structure for grounding the lighting component.

[0038] The grounding structure may include a wire. Preferably, the wire is U-shaped.

[0039] The grounding structure can be arranged such that it scratches the luminaire component during assembly, particularly during at least part of its movement to attach it to the connector. For example, the grounding structure projects obliquely upwards, and the luminaire component is mounted in a downward direction. As soon as the luminaire component comes into contact with the grounding structure during assembly, the grounding structure is pressed downwards, causing (for example, due to a rotatable mounting) a portion of the grounding structure, particularly a distal end, to move transversely (especially perpendicularly) to an up-down direction, thus scratching the luminaire component (on its inner surface). During assembly of the luminaire component, preferably at least a portion of the grounding structure is mechanically tensioned, thereby exerting a restoring force on the grounding structure that tensions it in a direction towards the luminaire component.

[0040] For example, scratching can remove the paint from the light fixture, exposing an electrically conductive part of the fixture and thus providing a safe electrical connection between the light fixture and the grounding structure.

[0041] The lighting system can include a fastening element, in particular a screw, arranged to fasten the grounding structure, in particular the wire, to the lighting support. The fastening element can, in particular, define an axis of rotation about which at least a part of the grounding structure can be rotated during the assembly of the lighting component.

[0042] The lighting system can include a lighting control gear which is (mechanically) connected to the lighting support at least via the connector, and preferably via one or more further connectors (which are preferably all arranged / distributed along a longitudinal axis).

[0043] The luminaire support can have one or more electrical conductors, in particular three live conductors (phases; L1, L2, L3) and a neutral conductor (N). The conductors can be connected to or be connected to the luminaire control gear.

[0044] The light fixture can have a U-profile and / or a U-shaped cross-section.

[0045] The lighting control gear can include a driver, in particular a three-phase driver. Preferably, the lighting control gear is designed for three-phase alternating current.

[0046] The lighting control gear can have a T-shape. If the luminaire holder and the lighting control gear are mechanically connected, the T-shape of the lighting control gear is preferably inverted, and the U-shape of the luminaire holder is not inverted.

[0047] The lighting system can include a light source, preferably an LED. The light source can be arranged to emit light in a specific direction (for example, downwards). The longitudinal axis of the lighting support preferably extends transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the direction of light emission. The lighting system can include an optical element, such as a lens, which is arranged to influence the light emitted by the light source.

[0048] A detailed description of the figures follows. The figures depict: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective exploded view of a lighting system according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 a schematic side view of the in Fig. 1 lighting control gear shown; Fig. 3 a schematic, perspective view of a connector according to a first embodiment in a first position not yet mechanically connected to the side channels of the light carrier; Fig. 4 a schematic, perspective view of the in Fig. 3 connector shown in a second position, mechanically connected to the side channels of the light carrier; Fig. 5 A schematic, perspective view of a lighting control gear, which is divided by several, as in the Fig. 3 and Fig. The 4 connectors shown are guided and held; Fig. 6 A schematic, perspective view of a lighting component, which is attached to the in Fig. 3 and Fig. The connector shown in section 4 is attached; Fig. 7 a schematic, perspective view of a grounding structure scratching a light fixture part during its assembly; Fig. 8-9 different schematic, perspective views of a connector according to a second embodiment; Fig. 10 a schematic, perspective sectional view of the in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 connector shown; Fig. 11 a schematic, perspective view of the in the Fig. Connector shown in 8-10 shortly before its (mechanical) connection with the light fixture; Fig. 12 a schematic, perspective view of the in the Fig. 8-10 connector shown in a first position, not yet mechanically connected to the side channels of the light carrier; Fig. 13 a schematic perspective view of the in the Fig. 8-10 connector shown in a second position, mechanically connected to the side channels of the light carrier; Fig. 14 a schematic front view (view in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the light carrier) of the in Fig. 13 shown arrangement; Fig. 15 a schematic, perspective sectional view of the in Fig. 13 shown arrangement; Fig. 16 a schematic, perspective view of a lighting system according to a further embodiment, wherein several connectors according to the second embodiment are provided; Fig. 17-20 schematic, perspective views of the in Fig. 16 lighting system shown, in which different positions of a lighting control gear pushed onto the lighting support by means of the connectors are shown; Fig. 21-23 different schematic, perspective views of a lighting system according to a further embodiment; Fig. 24 and Fig. 25 different schematic, perspective views of a lighting system according to a further embodiment; Fig. 24A a schematic, perspective view of the connector which is used in the lighting system according to Fig. 24 and Fig. 25 is used; Fig. 26 a schematic, perspective view of a lighting system according to a further embodiment; and Fig. 27 a schematic, perspective view of a lighting system according to a further embodiment.

[0049] For the sake of simplicity and clarity, some reference symbols for recurring features have been omitted from the figures.

[0050] Fig. Figure 1 shows a connector 1 for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear 50 to an elongated lighting support 80, which is, for example, a busbar, a lighting track, or a lighting bar (light bar). "Elongated" here means that the length is a multiple, i.e., at least twice, of the width. The lighting control gear 50 can also be elongated.

[0051] As the Fig. As can be seen from Figure 2, the lighting control gear 50 can have a substantially T-shape. The lighting control gear 50 can have one or more mounting areas 501, 502 via which the lighting control gear 50 can be connected to the luminaire carrier 80. The mounting areas 501, 502 can be designed in the form of one or more channels extending along the longitudinal axis. The lighting control gear 50 is specifically designed to be electrically connected to the luminaire carrier 80. For this purpose, the lighting control gear 50 can have one or more conductors that can be electrically connected to the luminaire carrier 80. The conductors or contact points can be moved, preferably extended, by an actuating element 503, for example a lever, to reach a position in which they electrically contact conductors, for example of the luminaire carrier 80 or of a luminaire system comprising the luminaire carrier 80.

[0052] The light support 80 can have a U-shape in cross-section, i.e., in a section transverse to its longitudinal axis. The light support 80 can have side channels 801, 802 facing each other and extending along the longitudinal axis of the light support 80. The side channels 801, 802 can, in particular, be provided in side walls 803, 804 of the light support 80. The light support 80 can have a base 805 from which the side walls 803, 804 extend. Preferably, the side walls 803, 804 and the base 805 form the U-shape of the light support 80.

[0053] Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 clearly shows the connector 1. The connector 1 has a base section 2. The base section 2 has two base ends 21, 22, which are designed to be mechanically connected to the light carrier 80, in particular to its side channels 801, 802. The base ends 21, 22 face away from each other. The base section 2 can extend elongated, with the base ends 21, 22 oriented in opposite directions parallel to the longitudinal axis. The base ends 21, 22 can be of uniform thickness, for example, by being made from a single plate. The base section 2 can have a connecting area 23 that connects the base ends 21, 22 to each other. The connecting area 23 can be plate-shaped and / or of uniform thickness, in particular having the same thickness as the base ends 21, 22. The base ends 21, 22 can be angled.For example, the base ends 21, 22 are each inclined and / or obliquely arranged relative to the connecting section 23. For example, the base ends 21, 22 can be obtained by bending them relative to the connecting section 23. The base ends 21, 22 can each have one or more chamfered corners 211, 212 (221, 222). The chamfered corners 211, 212 (221, 222) can give the respective base end 21 (22) a substantially trapezoidal shape, which is, for example, symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the base section 2.

[0054] The connector 1, in particular the base section 2, can have a connector positioning structure 3. The connector positioning structure 3 is configured to interact with a luminaire support positioning structure 806, which the luminaire support 80 has. This ensures a defined position of the connector 1 relative to the luminaire support 80, in particular with respect to its longitudinal axis and / or an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The connector positioning structure 3 can be located centrally between the base ends 21 and 22 in the base section 2. The luminaire support positioning structure 806 can be configured to extend through the opening 3, for example, in the form of a projection, thereby setting the defined position of the connector 1 relative to the luminaire support 80. In this state, the projection 806 extends through the opening 3 or simply into the opening 3.The 806 projection can be a stud and / or a sleeve.

[0055] Connector 1 has a guide 4 in addition to the base section 2. As shown in particular... Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 1, the guide 4 has two opposing, preferably U-shaped guide sections 41, 42. As can be seen in particular in Figure 1. Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 4, the connector 1, in particular the guide 4, can have a guide element 411 and an optional further guide element 421. The guide element 411 is arranged to form at least part of the preferably U-shaped guide section 41. The further guide element 421 is arranged to form at least part of the (other) preferably U-shaped guide section 42. Each of the guide sections 41, 42 preferably has: a respective first section that is close to the base section 2, and a second section that is farther from the base section 2 and is formed by the respective guide element 411 (421). The guide elements 411, 421 are preferably arranged so that they face each other and / or extend towards each other. The guide elements 411, 421 can be plate-shaped and / or extend in a common plane.

[0056] The guide sections 41, 42 are designed to guide and hold at least a portion of the lighting control gear 50. The lighting control gear 50 can be connected to the connector 1, particularly by means of a positive locking connection, via the guide sections 41, 42. When the lighting control gear 50 is guided by the guide sections 41, 42, a portion of the lighting control gear 50 is preferably located between the guide element 411 (and / or further guide element 421) and the base section 2.

[0057] The lighting control gear 50 is thus positively locked in a direction perpendicular to the base section 2. Simultaneously, the lighting control gear is guided by the guide 4, in particular the guide sections 41, 42, for example along a direction (“guide direction”) that is perpendicular to the direction in which the lighting control gear 50 is positively locked. The lighting control gear 50 can therefore be moved, in particular linearly, along the guide direction. The guide sections 41, 42 also ensure that the lighting control gear 50 is positively locked in a direction that is parallel to a line connecting the guide sections 41, 42. An opening 43 is preferably formed between the guide elements 411, 421, through which a part of the lighting control gear 50, guided and held by the guide 4 or the guide sections 41, 42, can project.

[0058] At least a part of the base section 2 and at least a part of the guide 4 can be parallel to each other. For example, the guide element 411 and / or the further guide element 421 can each be parallel to the connecting section 23 of the base section 2. The guide sections 41, 42 can each have a section that (also) forms the respective U-shape and / or is transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the respective guide element 411 (421) and / or to the connecting section 23 or another part of the base section 2.

[0059] The connector 1 can have a mounting structure 5. The mounting structure 5 is designed so that a luminaire component, such as a housing part and / or optics, can be at least partially attached to the connector 1. The mounting structure 5 can be at least partially provided in the guide element 411 and / or a further guide element 421. The mounting structure 5 can have a first mounting structure section 51 and a second mounting structure section 52. The first mounting structure section 51 is preferably at least partially provided in the guide element 411. The second mounting structure section 52 is preferably at least partially provided in the guide element 421. The mounting structure 5, in particular the mounting structure section 51 and / or the mounting structure section 52, can have an opening 511 (521).The fastening structure 5 can have a recess 512 (522), in particular a bore, which has the opening 511 (521). The fastening structure 5 can have a body 513 (523) that delimits the recess 512 (522). The recess 512 (522) can be open on one side, namely via the opening 511 (521). The recess 512 (522) can, for example, be delimited by a base that the body 513 (523) has. The body 513 (523) can project from the respective guide element 411 (421), for example from its rear side, with its front side having the opening 511 (521). The fastening structure 5 can have a thread so that fastening can be effected, for example, with a screw. Preferably, the body 513 (523) has the thread.

[0060] The mounting structure 5, in particular the body 513 (523), can be arranged to form a clamp 6 with the base section 2, in particular the base ends 21, 22. The clamp 6 is designed to be mechanically connected to the luminaire carrier 80 by means of a clamping action. That is, a part of the luminaire carrier 80, for example at least a part of the side wall 803 and / or side wall 804, can be clamped by the clamp 6. For example, the clamp 6 has a first clamping section 61 and a second clamping section 62. The first clamping section 61 is preferably formed by the body 513 and / or the guide element 411 on the one hand and the base end 21 on the other. The second clamping section 62 is preferably formed by the body 523 and / or the guide element 421 on the one hand and the base end 22 on the other. In particular, the body 513 (523) can extend towards the base end 21 (22).

[0061] The base section 2 and the guide 4 can be formed integrally with each other. The connector 1 can have a connecting structure 7 that preferably integrally connects the base section 2 to the guide 4. The connecting structure 7 can form part of one or each of the guide sections 41, 42. For example, the connecting structure 7 has a preferably planar section 71 that forms part, in particular a base, of the guide section 41 and / or the guide section 42. The section 71 is preferably arranged parallel to the guide element 411 and / or guide element 421 and / or defines a recess with one or both of the guide elements 411, 421 in which at least part of the lighting control gear 50 can be provided to guide and hold the lighting control gear 50.

[0062] The connecting structure 7 can have one or more ribs 72. This makes the connection between the base section 2 and the guide 4 particularly stable. The at least one rib 72 can extend obliquely relative to the base section 2 and / or the guide 4. Preferably, the at least one rib 72 connects the section 23 to the section 71.

[0063] The connecting structure 7 can be arranged such that, viewed from above the guide 4, for example, when viewed perpendicularly to the guide elements 411, 421 and / or section 71, it at least partially overlaps or covers the connector positioning structure 3. Preferably, the connecting structure 7 has a recess 73 into which the luminaire carrier positioning structure 806 can extend when interacting with the connector positioning structure 3, for example, when inserted into it. In particular, the connecting structure 7 can be arranged such that it bridges the connector positioning structure 3. Such a bridge forms, for example, the recess 73.

[0064] The optional mounting structure 5 described above allows a luminaire component to be attached to the connector 1, for example using a fastener such as a screw. Fig. As can be seen from Figure 1, this luminaire component can have or be a housing part 90. The housing part 90 is preferably designed to at least partially cover and thus at least partially protect the luminaire control gear 50 and / or the luminaire support 80, for example from external influences such as dust and / or moisture. Preferably, the housing part 90 has a U-shaped cross-section, i.e., a U-profile. The fastening means that can be used to fasten the luminaire component, such as the housing part 90, to the mounting structure 5 and thus to the connector 1, is, for example, one or more screws 10. The luminaire component (for example, housing part 90) can have one or more through-openings 901 through which the fastening means can be passed to engage with the mounting structure 5 of the connector 1.

[0065] The housing part 90 can have an opening 902 from which the lighting control gear 50 protrudes. The opening 902 can be provided in a base 903 of the housing part 90. The housing part 90 can have side walls 904 which are connected to each other above the base 902. The opening 902 preferably has a length that is at least equal to the length of the control gear 50. The opening 902 can have a rectangular shape, although other shapes (square, round, etc.) are also possible.

[0066] At least the luminaire support 80 and the connector 1 can be arranged to form a luminaire system 100. The luminaire system 100 can also include the housing part 90 and / or another luminaire part (for example, optics) and / or the luminaire control gear 50.

[0067] The mechanical connection of the lighting control gear 50 with the lighting support 80 can be made as follows.

[0068] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, a connector 1 is first positioned relative to the luminaire carrier 80. The interaction of the positioning structures 3 and 806 can be helpful for this, in particular to ensure a defined position of the connector 1 relative to the luminaire carrier 80. The connector 1 is initially in a first position relative to the luminaire carrier 80. This position shows Fig. 3. In this position, the connector 1 does not extend with its longitudinal axis perpendicularly, but, for example, obliquely to the longitudinal axis of the luminaire support 80. The connector 1 can still be easily removed from the luminaire support 80 by moving it upwards, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the base 805 of the luminaire support 80 and / or to the base section 2.

[0069] Starting from the first position, the connector 1 can be moved into a second position by rotating the (entire) connector 1, in which the base ends 21, 22 are mechanically connected to the lamp holder 80. This position is in Fig. Figure 4 shows that in this position, the base ends 21, 22 are at least partially positioned in the side channels 801, 802 and are preferably clamped. The clamping effect is preferably achieved by angling the base ends 21, 22. When the base ends 21, 22 move, the chamfered edges 211, 212, 221, 222 come into contact with the lamp carrier 80. This allows the base ends 21, 22 to be easily pressed downwards during rotation so that they can easily enter the side channels 801, 802. However, the base ends 21, 22 can also be provided without the chamfered corners 211, 212, 222, 223.

[0070] In the second position, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a mechanical connection between connector 1 and light support 80 can also be made via one or more terminals 61, 62. As shown in particular by the Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 4, at least a part of side wall 803 and / or at least a part of side wall 804 can be clamped in terminal 6. That is, at least a part of side wall 803 can be clamped in terminal section 61, and / or at least a part of side wall 804 can be clamped in terminal section 62.

[0071] The lighting system 100 can have one or more further connectors 1 which can be connected to the lighting support 80 analogously to the mechanical connection of the connector 1 to the lighting support 80 described above. In this way, an arrangement of connectors 1 can be obtained which are arranged, preferably at uniform intervals from one another, along a longitudinal axis, for example, the longitudinal axis of the lighting support 80. This is shown, for example, in Fig. 5.

[0072] If several connectors 1 are each in the second position and thus mechanically connected to the luminaire carrier 80, the luminaire control gear 50 can be mechanically connected to the luminaire carrier 80 via these connectors. In particular, the luminaire control gear 50 can then be slid onto the luminaire carrier 80 via the connectors 1, for example along the longitudinal axis of the luminaire carrier 80, as shown in Fig. 5 indicated by the arrow. Here, the guide sections 41, 42 preferably engage in the holding sections (channels) 501, 502 of the lighting control gear 50.

[0073] The lighting control gear 50 is thus guided and held by the guides 4 of the connectors 1, but can still be moved and / or positioned along the longitudinal axis of the lighting support 80.

[0074] The housing part 90 can then be attached to one or more connectors 1. Preferably, by providing and preferably attaching the housing part 90, a defined position of the lighting control gear 50 along the longitudinal axis of the lighting support 80 can be set simultaneously. In particular, such a defined position can be set through the opening 902. When attached to the connector(s) 1, the housing 90, in particular a section limiting the opening 902, can limit or even prevent movement (for example, shifting) of the lighting control gear 50 along the longitudinal axis. That is, because the lighting control gear 50 projects through the opening 902, its movement along the longitudinal axis of the lighting control 80 is at least limited, namely by the edge of the housing part 90 that limits the opening 902.

[0075] Fig. Figure 7 shows that the lighting system 100 can have a grounding structure 11 arranged to ground the lighting component, for example, the housing component 90. The function of the grounding structure 11 with respect to the housing component 90 as the lighting component will be described below. However, the invention is not limited to this. The grounding structure 11 can also be used to ground other lighting components, such as optics.

[0076] The grounding structure 11 is preferably arranged on the luminaire support 80 and / or electrically connected to the luminaire support 80. The grounding structure 11 can comprise a wire 111, which is preferably U-shaped, and / or a fastening element 112, which is preferably a screw. The fastening element 112 secures the wire 111, particularly relative to the luminaire support 80. The wire 111 at least partially surrounds or wraps around the fastening element 112. The fastening element 112 can have a head 1121 arranged to secure the wire 111. The fastening element 112 allows the wire 111 to be secured, in particular, such that at least a portion of it is rotatable (elastically) about an axis of rotation or a pivot point. In this position, at least a portion of the wire 111 can be rotated from a rest position to a tensioned position. The wire 111 preferably has two ends 1111, which are preferably pointed.

[0077] The grounding structure 11 can be arranged such that it scratches the housing part 90 during its assembly. Such scratching can, for example, remove paint or other coating from the housing part 90, thereby exposing an electrically conductive area that then makes electrical contact with the grounding structure 11. For example, the grounding structure 11 scratches the base 90 of the housing part 90, particularly on the inside side of the base 903 that faces the luminaire support 80 during assembly. Using the wire 111, a grounding connection between the grounding structure 11 and the housing part 90 can be established, for example, as follows: The housing part 90 is assembled, i.e., attached to one or more connectors 1. In doing so, the housing part 90 is moved towards the luminaire support 80 in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.During this movement, the housing part 90, in particular its base 903, for example the back of the base 903, comes into contact with the wire 111, in particular its ends 1111. Through further movement in the aforementioned direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lamp holder 80, the wire 111 remains in contact with the housing part 90 and is thereby moved. At least a portion of the wire 111 rotates about the axis of rotation defined by the fastening element 112. The wire 111 is tensioned and thus presses against the housing part 90. During this movement, the wire 111 scrapes in one direction along the longitudinal axis of the lamp holder 80 and / or housing part 90.In other words, since the distance between ends 1111 and the axis of rotation defined by the fastening element 112 remains essentially constant, and the ends 1111 rotate about this point / axis of rotation, the ends move into a state where they press against the housing part 90 along its longitudinal axis, thereby scratching the housing part 90. An earth connection between housing part 90 and earthing structure 11 is thus maintained.

[0078] The lighting control gear 50 and / or the luminaire support 80 is / are preferably designed for three-phase alternating current. This means, for example, that the luminaire support 80 has a conductor arrangement suitable for use with three-phase alternating current. For example, the luminaire support 80 has three live conductors (phases) and one neutral conductor, each running along the longitudinal axis of the luminaire support 80. In particular, these conductors can be arranged so that they can be electrically connected to the luminaire control gear 50 (for example, a three-phase AC control gear).

[0079] Fig. Figures 8-23 show different views of a connector 1' according to a further embodiment and how this connector 1' can be used with a light carrier 80. Features that are the same or equivalent to the features described above have the same reference numerals; for the sake of simplicity, their detailed description is omitted.

[0080] Connector 1' can, as in particular Fig. 8-19, guide elements 411', 421' can be identified, which essentially correspond to the guide elements 411, 421 mentioned above, but are designed somewhat differently, as described below. In particular, the guide elements 411', 421' may not have an opening 511, 521. Thus, the guide element 411' and / or the guide element 421' may, for example, be completely closed. In particular, one or each of the guide elements 411', 421' may be designed in the form of a plate that has no opening whatsoever, for example, as part of a mounting structure for attaching a luminaire component.

[0081] How especially Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figures 8-10, the connector 1' can have a connector positioning structure 3' which has an opening that does not pass through the connector 1' but opens into a recess 31' which has a base 311' provided inside the connector 1', for example, within the connection structure 7. Thus, the recess 31', and the luminaire support positioning structure 806, if it is at least partially provided in the recess 31', may not be visible in at least a side view of the connector 1' (viewing direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector 1') and / or front and / or rear view of the connector 1' (viewing direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector 1').The connector positioning structure 3' can have an elongated opening, for example a slotted hole, in particular to provide clearance when interacting with the luminaire support positioning structure 806; the latter can, for example, have a circular cross-section. In particular, the connector 1' can have the recess 31' as a blind hole.

[0082] The mechanical connection of connector 1' to the luminaire carrier 80 is analogous to that of connector 1 to the luminaire carrier 80, as described above, and is - analogous to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 - in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 shown. As in particular Fig. As can be seen from Figure 13, the connector 1' can be mechanically connected to the light carrier 80 in such a way that the guide elements 411', 421' do not extend laterally beyond the light carrier 80. As can be seen in particular Fig. 14 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 15, the connector 1' can have one or more indentations 6' (61', 62') in which a part of the light carrier 80, for example lateral, towards each other projections 806, can be provided, for example in a clamping manner, when the connector 1' is mechanically connected to the light carrier 80 and held in it (second position).

[0083] How Fig. As can be seen from Figures 16-20, several of the connectors 1' can be mechanically connected to the luminaire carrier 80, so that the luminaire control gear 50 can be mechanically connected to the luminaire carrier 80 via these connectors, in particular slid onto it, as already mentioned above in relation to Fig. 5 explained.

[0084] How Fig. As can be seen from Figures 21-23, at least one housing part 90', for example in the form of a plate, can be mechanically connected directly or indirectly to the luminaire carrier 80, particularly serving as contact protection. The housing part 90' can be transparent. As shown in particular Fig. As can be seen from Figure 21, the mechanical connection between housing part 90' and lamp holder 80 is preferably indirect, namely via a connector 12, which is preferably different from connector 1' or connector 1. As shown in Figure 21, the mechanical connection between housing part 90' and lamp holder 80 is preferably indirect, namely via a connector 12, which is preferably different from connector 1' or connector 1. Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the grounding structure 11 can be attached to the luminaire support 80 via a further connector 12 (to which the housing part 90' is preferably not attached). The luminaire system 100 can, in particular, have several connectors 12 via which the housing part 90' can be attached to the luminaire support 80, for example, using a fastener such as a screw. Fig. As can be seen from Figure 23, several housing parts 90' can be connected to the luminaire carrier 80, in particular in such a way that by their mechanical connection with and preferably attachment to the luminaire carrier 80 a positioning of the luminaire control gear 50 relative to the longitudinal axis of the luminaire carrier 80 is defined.

[0085] The housing part 90' is preferably made of a plastic such as PMMA.

[0086] Another possible lighting component that can be attached to connector 1 is in Fig. 24 and Fig. Figure 25 shows that this luminaire part is a housing part 90", which does not have the opening 902 described above, but is otherwise designed like the housing part 90, for example with a U-shaped cross-section. For example, two housing parts 90" may be provided which, when mechanically connected to the luminaire support 80, namely mechanically connected via one or more connectors 1, determine the position of the luminaire control gear 50 along the longitudinal axis. However, it may also be provided that the connectors 1 have the capability to mechanically connect the luminaire control gear 50 to the luminaire support 80, but the luminaire control gear 50 is not provided in the luminaire system 100, and thus the connectors 1 are intended exclusively for the mechanical connection of the housing part 90" to the luminaire support 80.

[0087] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 26, an optic 91, for example for indirect lighting, can be provided as a lighting component, in addition to the housing part 90". The optic 91 can, for example, be an elongated optic extending over most or even the entire length of the housing part 90". The housing part 90 can have an opening (not shown) through which light can reach the optic 91.

[0088] How Fig.As can be seen from Figure 27, the luminaire component that can be or will be attached to the connector 1 can have or be an additional connector 92. The connector 92 can be a support that can serve for the mechanical connection to, and preferably the mounting of, luminaire components. The connector 92 is preferably elongated, for example as a beam or rail. The connector 92 preferably has a U-profile and / or one or more lateral channels that can serve, for example, as mounting and / or holding structures for the luminaire components.

Claims

[1] Connectors (1, 1') for the mechanical connection of a lighting control gear (50) with an elongated lighting support (80), comprising: - a base section (2), wherein the base section (2) has two base ends (21, 22) facing away from each other, which are configured to be connected to the light carrier (80), and - a guide (4) wherein the guide (4) has two mutually facing guide sections (41, 42) which are designed to guide and hold at least a part of the lighting control gear (50). [2] Connector (1, 1') according to claim 1, wherein the base ends (21, 22) are movable into side channels (801, 802) of the light carrier (80) by rotating the connector (1, 1') about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the base section (2). [3] Connector (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a connector positioning structure (3) configured to cooperate with a luminaire support positioning structure (806) to ensure a defined position of the connector (1, 1') relative to the luminaire support (80), wherein preferably the axis of rotation extends through the connector positioning structure (3). [4] Connector (1, 1') according to claim 3, wherein the connector positioning structure (3) has an opening, in particular a through-opening, and / or a projection, in particular a stud. [5] Connectors (1, 1') according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the base section (2) comprises the connector positioning structure (3). [6] Connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a fastening structure (5) for fastening a luminaire part (90, 90', 90", 91, 92), in particular a housing part (90, 90', 90"), an optic (91) and / or a further, preferably elongated connector (92), to the connector (1). [7] Connector (1) according to claim 6, wherein the fastening structure (5) has an opening (511, 521) and / or a thread. [8] Connectors (1, 1') according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the guide sections (41, 42) are U-shaped. [9] Connector (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a guide element (411) which is arranged to form at least part of one of the guide sections (41, 42), wherein the connector (1, 1') preferably comprises a further guide element (421) which is arranged to form at least part of the other of the guide sections (41, 42). [10] Connector (1, 1') according to claim 9, wherein the guide element (411) is plate-shaped, and wherein the further guide element (421) is preferably plate-shaped. [11] Connector (1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the fastening structure (5) is provided at least partially in the guide element (411) and preferably at least partially in the further guide element (421). [12] Connectors (1, 1') according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base ends (21, 22) are plate-shaped. [13] Connectors (1, 1') according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base ends (21, 22) are angled. [14] Connectors (1, 1') according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base ends (21, 22) each have one or more chamfered corners (211, 212; 221, 222). [15] Connector (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of the base section (2) and at least a part of the guide (4), in particular the guide element (411) and preferably also the further guide element (421), are parallel to each other. [16] Connector (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base section (2) and the guide (4) are formed integrally together. [17] Connector (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a connection structure (7) that connects the base section (2) to the guide (4). [18] Connector (1, 1') according to claim 17, wherein the connection structure (7) forms part of one or each of the guide sections (41, 42). [19] Connectors (1, 1') according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the connection structure (7) has one or more ribs (72). [20] Connector (1, 1') according to one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the connecting structure (7) is arranged to at least partially cover the connector positioning structure (3) in a top view of the guide (4). [21] Connectors (1, 1') according to any of the preceding claims, comprising retaining structures for holding one or more electrical conductors. [22] Arrangement of several connectors (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connectors (1, 1') are preferably arranged along a longitudinal axis. [23] Lighting system (100), comprising: - an elongated light carrier (80) with side channels (801, 802) extending along its longitudinal axis and facing each other; and - a connector (1, 1') according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein its base ends (21, 22) are movable into the side channels (801, 802) of the light carrier (80) by rotating the connector (1, 1') about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the base section (2). [24] Lighting system (100) according to claim 23, comprising a lighting part (90, 90', 90", 91, 92) which is attached to the connector (1, 1'). [25] Lighting system (100) according to claim 24, wherein the lighting part (90, 90', 90") comprises a housing part (90, 90', 90'), an optic (91) and / or a further, preferably elongated connector (92). [26] Lighting system (100) according to claim 25, wherein the housing part (90) has an opening (902) from which the lighting control gear (50) can protrude or extend and / or with which the lighting control gear (50) guided and held by the connector (1, 1') can be positioned relative to the lighting support (80). [27] Lighting system (100) according to one of claims 23 to 26, comprising an earthing structure (11) for earthing the lighting part (90, 90', 90", 91, 92). [28] Lighting system (100) according to claim 27, wherein the grounding structure (11) has a preferably U-shaped wire (111). [29] Lighting system (100) according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the grounding structure (11) is arranged such that it scratches the lighting part (90, 90', 90", 91, 92) during its assembly, in particular during at least part of its movement for attachment to the connector (1, 1'). [30] Lighting system (100) according to one of claims 27 to 29, comprising a fastening means (112), in particular a screw, which is arranged to fasten the grounding structure (11), in particular the wire (111), to the light support (80). [31] Lighting system (100) according to one of claims 23 to 30, comprising a lighting control gear (50) which is connected to the lighting support (80) at least via the connector (1, 1'). [32] Lighting system (100) according to claim 31, wherein the lighting control gear (50) is designed for three-phase alternating current and / or has a three-phase driver. [33] Lighting system (100) according to one of claims 23 to 32, wherein the lighting support (80) has three external conductors (phases) and a neutral conductor. [34] Lighting system (100) according to one of claims 23 to 33, comprising a light source, preferably an LED.

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