LIGHTING SUPPORT RAIL AND SUPPORT RAIL SYSTEM WITH SUPPORT RAIL

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting mounting rail for a mounting rail system with an elongated support profile and a busbar with at least one electrical conductor extending along the support profile. The invention further relates to a mounting rail system comprising several such mounting rails.

[0002] Mounting rails of the type mentioned above are generally known from the prior art. These typically serve to mount and supply electrical and electronic components, such as luminaires and linear lighting components. Other electrical or electronic components, such as loudspeakers, sensors, and the like, can also be mounted in corresponding mounting rails or profiles. The Internet of Things (IoT) is increasingly bringing new application possibilities for a multitude of additional elements, such as the use of radio beacons, sensors of all kinds, and so on.

[0003] CN 204 885 742 U discloses a power supply device comprising a busbar with a tubular body and a power line running within it, as well as a plug that can be attached to the busbar. The plug has terminals by means of which external devices can be connected to the power line in the busbar.

[0004] JP 2009 100039 A discloses a power line connection system comprising a power line duct containing a power line. The power line connection system further includes a detachable adapter plug from the power line duct, by means of which an end device can be connected to the power line via a plug connection.

[0005] US 2014 / 112001 A1 discloses a lighting device comprising a track assembly and an electrical unit installed on the track assembly in such a way that its position is adjustable. The electrical unit is in contact with the track assembly and is powered by the track assembly. In the lighting device, multiple electrical units can be installed on a single track assembly in such a way that their position is adjustable, and even if the position of each electrical unit is changed, the electrical unit can be reliably powered by the track assembly.

[0006] The increasing use of electrical and electronic components on such mounting rails means that these rails become heavily loaded with components, often resulting in obstructions or functional collisions. Furthermore, a common function of these mounting rails—namely, mounting luminaires for light emission—is increasingly limited by the use of other electrical and electronic components, such as IoT components, which often extend into the light emission area. Moreover, these electrical and electronic components utilize different interfaces, requiring the installation of a suitable device that is individually configured depending on the components used. Providing connection options for such components is therefore not only complicated but also associated with high costs.Installing the necessary interfaces is always a very complex and costly process with today's known mounting rail systems.

[0007] Nevertheless, the use of electrical or electronic components, especially in combination with mounting rails, remains highly significant. For example, a large proportion of known IoT components are already equipped with wireless data transmission and are therefore finding increasing applications. However, these and other electrical and electronic components are still preferably powered via cables or, alternatively, by batteries.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a lighting mounting rail and a mounting rail system comprising several mounting rails, which provide connection options for electrical or electronic components in a simple manner.

[0009] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claim. The dependent claims further develop the central idea of ​​the present invention in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the present invention therefore relates to a lighting mounting rail (hereinafter also referred to as: a mounting rail) for a mounting rail system. The mounting rail has an elongated support profile. Furthermore, the mounting rail has a busbar with at least one electrical conductor for the electrical connection of electrical or electronic components. The busbar extends along the support profile. The mounting rail also has an adapter element. The adapter element, in turn, has at least one first connection and at least one connecting element, as well as an adapter housing for carrying the first connection and / or the connecting element. The adapter housing can therefore preferably have at least the first connection and / or the connecting element. The first connection can be electrically and / or signal-wise coupled to the busbar via the connecting element.The first connection is designed for connecting a corresponding second connection of an electrical or electronic component, in order to couple the electrical or electronic component to the busbar electrically and / or in terms of signaling via the connecting element.

[0011] This adapter makes it possible to easily provide a component via appropriate interfaces. The connecting element allows a suitable mounting profile equipped with a busbar to be retrofitted to accommodate such a component. The simple use of the voltage already provided by the busbar (preferably a low voltage) via the connecting element increases the practical application of a mounting rail according to the invention. Thus, the adapter element makes it possible to connect various (e.g., standardized) interfaces to the mounting rail at any time, independently of other electrical or electronic components, such as luminaires, and therefore also independent of the lighting level of the device. In this way, the provision, simple connection, and power supply of any additional electrical or electronic components can be ensured with less effort.

[0012] The first connection can preferably be part of a standard interface, such as HDMI, USB, a barrel connector, or a network connector, for example, for LAN cables for Power over Ethernet (PoE). Specifically, the first connection is a standardized socket of a corresponding standard interface. In this way, all kinds of components, especially intelligent ones, can be supplied with electrical and / or data power via the power rail in a particularly simple manner.

[0013] The adapter element can have multiple initial connections. These can be identical or different. Therefore, several electrical or electronic components can be connected directly. Furthermore, by providing different initial connections, it is possible to use different interfaces and thus easily connect devices with different interfaces.

[0014] One, several, or all of the first connections can be electrically and / or signal-wise connected to the busbar via one or more connecting elements. The adapter can therefore be specifically configured or designed according to the given requirements.

[0015] A printed circuit board (PCB) can be provided between the connecting element and the first terminal(s) for transforming the voltage and / or current values ​​of the busbar, for example, to those of the first terminal(s) or the components to be connected. The PCB can also be configured for transforming the voltage and / or current from the first terminal, such as an Ethernet input, to a third terminal, such as an Ethernet output. The adapter housing preferably also includes this third terminal. Consequently, the voltage and / or current values ​​required for the respective terminals can be easily transformed. Power over Ethernet (PoE) can also be easily implemented.

[0016] The adapter housing can have the first and / or third connection and preferably be integrally formed with this or these connections. This further improves the handling of the adapter and also allows for a visually appealing design.

[0017] The support profile can have at least one through-opening. For electrical and / or signaling connection to the busbar, the connecting element can then be guided at least partially through the through-opening. In this way, defined connection positions can be provided. Furthermore, connecting the connecting element to the busbar is particularly easy.

[0018] The connecting element can preferably be detachably connected to the busbar (directly) for electrical and / or signal coupling. This allows the adapter element to be positioned as desired and retrofitted accordingly. Replacing or maintaining the adapter elements is also easily possible.

[0019] The connecting element can be integrated directly into or incorporated into the adapter housing, for example, by protruding as part of the housing with corresponding connection areas. Alternatively, the connecting element can be detachably attached to the adapter housing, thus facilitating replacement or configuration with any other connecting element.

[0020] According to the invention, the connecting element is electrically and / or signal-wise connected to the first connection via cable. Such a connecting element can, for example, be designed as a connector plug connected by cable. This makes the connecting element and its connection position more flexible.

[0021] The connecting element can be designed as a single unit with the first connection. This unit can be connected to the adapter housing, preferably via the connecting element and preferably detachably. Thus, the adapter housing can be equipped with a suitably configured combination of first connection and connecting element, allowing the adapter housing to be easily and individually fitted with a unit that is flexible with regard to the connection position.

[0022] Depending on the application, the connecting element can be designed or provided in different ways. An integrated design with the adapter housing ensures simpler connection of the adapter to the busbar. A cable solution allows for more flexible handling and connection options between the connecting element and the busbar.

[0023] The support profile can define an interior space for at least partial accommodation of electrical or electronic components. This allows these components to be safely mounted and preferably connected via the busbar. Electrical contact areas provided for this purpose can preferably be defined by the support profile on one side and a (functional) front face of the electrical or electronic components on the other, thus ensuring touch safety.

[0024] The support profile can also include a retaining structure for mechanically fastening the support rail. This allows the support profile to be easily mounted to a mounting surface, for example, by direct mounting or by means of an additional component such as a retaining spring.

[0025] The busbar can be mounted in or on the support profile. Preferably, the busbar is located inside the support profile, so that appropriate electrical and / or signal connections can be easily made by inserting suitable electrical or electronic components.

[0026] The support profile can have an open longitudinal side through which the busbar can be accessed and, preferably, the electrical or electronic components can be electrically coupled to the busbar and, more preferably, mechanically coupled to the support profile. This enables a particularly simple coupling of the aforementioned electrical or electronic components, both electrically via the busbar and mechanically via the support profile.

[0027] The mounting rail can further include an electrical or electronic component. This component, in turn, has a second connection for linking to the corresponding first connection of the adapter element for electrical and / or signal coupling with the busbar. The electrical or electronic component can preferably be a light, in particular a spotlight or gooseneck light, a sensor, in particular a motion sensor or a brightness sensor, a radio beacon, a WLAN repeater, a loudspeaker, a camera, a fan, and / or a fire alarm. The invention is, of course, not limited to any specific electrical or electronic component, as long as it is equipped with a corresponding second connection that allows it to be coupled to the first connection.The possible applications of the mounting rail according to the invention are therefore diverse, which significantly increases the flexibility of the mounting rail. This, combined with the simple connection of corresponding components, makes this mounting rail particularly user-friendly.

[0028] The electrical or electronic component can have a coupling area for mechanical connection to the support profile and / or the busbar and / or the adapter element, and preferably its adapter housing. Providing a suitable coupling area further improves the placement of the components. They can thus be positioned precisely, if required, eliminating the need for separate retaining elements.

[0029] The mounting rail can further include a connecting axis to mechanically and preferably rotatably couple the electrical or electronic component to the mounting profile and / or the busbar and / or the adapter element, preferably the adapter housing. The coupling area can preferably be connected to the connecting axis or may itself constitute the connecting axis. By providing a suitable connecting axis, the degrees of freedom of a corresponding electrical or electronic component can be further increased, if necessary. This can be of considerable advantage, for example, when using luminaires, especially spotlights, cameras, and other components that preferably require a defined orientation, which should also preferably be adjustable.

[0030] The adapter element, and preferably its housing, can be mechanically coupled to the support profile and / or the busbar. This allows for a defined positioning of the adapter element, preferably in a fixed orientation. This should also enable the defined position to be maintained when, for example, the connections are used; that is, when corresponding plugs are inserted as secondary connections into corresponding sockets as primary connections or removed from them.

[0031] The adapter housing preferably has a coupling structure that can be mechanically coupled to a corresponding coupling structure of the support profile and / or the busbar, preferably the support profile's retaining structure, and preferably is mechanically coupled and displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the support rail. Consequently, it is possible to utilize existing retaining structures of the support profile to securely attach the adapter housing to the support profile. This also eliminates the need for additional connecting elements.

[0032] The adapter housing can have a U-shape or a C-shape to at least partially encircle the support profile, preferably with the two side legs of the U-shape or C-shape resting laterally against the support profile. The connecting leg linking the side legs can then, for example, encircle the back of the support profile, which is, for instance, opposite a light-emitting side of the mounting rail. This encircling action is particularly preferred when the adapter element is mechanically coupled to the support profile. In this way, it is possible to provide a secure and effective connection between the support profile and the adapter element without obstructing a functional area of ​​the mounting rail, such as a light-emitting area.

[0033] The adapter housing can further include a guide rail which is mechanically coupled to the electrical or electronic component to allow the component to slide along the guide rail. This mechanical coupling is preferably achieved via the coupling area or the connecting axis. In this way, the degrees of freedom of the electrical or electronic components can be further increased, as they can be moved along the adapter housing and thus positioned as defined.

[0034] The mounting rail can further comprise at least one electrical or electronic component which is electrically coupled / connectable to the busbar, preferably its electrical conductors, and preferably, for example, mechanically coupled to the support profile. The electrical or electronic component can preferably be a luminaire, in particular a linear luminaire or a spotlight, a control gear, and / or a sensor, in particular a motion sensor or a brightness sensor. In principle, the invention is not limited to a specific electrical or electronic component, provided that it can be coupled to the mounting rail or its support profile / busbar in order to be functionally provided via it.

[0035] The mounting rail can further include a cable guide element, which has at least one receiving section for the lateral insertion of a cable transversely to its longitudinal extent and for holding the cable. The cable guide element can also include a connection structure for mechanically connecting the cable guide element to a corresponding connection structure, preferably the retaining structure, of the mounting profile, or, for example, to another corresponding connection structure, such as that of the adapter element. The cable guide element enables the secure holding / guiding and visually appealing storage of cables.

[0036] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a mounting rail system for connecting electrical or electronic components, which has several mounting rails, wherein at least one of the mounting rails is a mounting rail according to the present invention. The mounting rails are preferably arranged longitudinally in series with one another. The busbars of adjacent mounting rails, preferably their electrical conductors, are preferably electrically coupled to one another. Thus, it is possible to form a mounting rail system using several mounting profiles, wherein the mounting rail system can consist of mounting rails according to the invention or these can at least be integrated into a corresponding mounting rail system.

[0037] The mounting rail system can further comprise a first connector for electrically and preferably also mechanically coupling the busbars. The mounting rail system can also comprise a second connector for mechanically coupling the support profiles, preferably by means of corresponding coupling structure areas. The mounting rail system can further preferably comprise a connecting element, such as a connecting rail, which preferably incorporates at least a portion of the first connector and / or the second connector. In this respect, particularly simple connecting elements for the electrical and / or mechanical coupling of several mounting rails can preferably be provided.

[0038] Further features and advantages of the present invention are described with reference to the figures in the accompanying drawings. These show: Figure 1 is a perspective partial view of a support rail according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective partial view of a support rail according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a perspective view of an adapter element with an electrical / electronic component (spotlight) according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the Figure 3 The elements shown are in a disassembled state. Figure 5 shows a partial perspective view of a support rail according to a third embodiment of the present invention with an attached electrical / electronic component (spotlight). Figure 6 shows a further partial perspective view of the support rail according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5Figure 7 shows a partial perspective view of a support profile for a support rail according to the invention with a cable guide element; Figure 8 shows a further partial perspective view of the support profile according to the invention. Figure 7 Figure 9 shows another perspective partial view of the support profile according to Figure 7 , with electrical / electronic component (sensor, camera), and Figure 10 a perspective partial sectional view of a support rail according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention

[0039] Especially the Figures 1 to 6Figure 1 shows different embodiments of a support rail 1 according to the invention for a support rail system. The support rail 1 has an elongated support profile 2. The support profile 2 can define an interior space 20 for at least partially accommodating electrical or electronic components 3. As shown here, the support profile 2 can, for example, have a substantially U-shaped cross-section. This is formed by a connecting element 22 at the rear and two parallel side legs 23 extending away from it. The side legs 23 define a through-opening or open longitudinal side 24 at their end facing away from the connecting element 22, through which the electrical or electronic components 3 can be at least partially inserted.

[0040] The support profile 2 can further comprise a retaining structure 21 for the mechanical fastening of the mounting rail 1. In the embodiment shown here, the retaining structure 21 extends outwards behind the connecting element, so that the (lighting) mounting rail 1 can be attached to a side of the support profile 2 facing away from the through-opening 24 accommodating the electrical or electronic components 3, and thus outside, for example, a light emission area. The retaining structure 21 has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional form, although other shapes are of course conceivable. The support profile 2 can thus be easily attached, for example, by direct mounting or by means of an additional component, such as a retaining spring 200 (see Figure 1). Fig. 7 ) are mounted on a mounting surface, such as a wall or a ceiling. The mounting structure 21 is hollow in this case and thus defines part of the interior space 20.

[0041] The support rail 1 further comprises at least one busbar 4 with at least one electrical conductor 40 for the electrical connection of electrical or electronic components 3. The busbar 4 extends along the support profile 2. Preferably, the busbar is received in or on the support profile 2, and particularly preferably in the interior 20 of the support profile 2. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 10The busbar 4 is provided here in the retaining structure 21, i.e., in the part of the interior 20 bounded by the retaining structure 21. The busbar 4 can also be provided at another position, preferably in the interior 20, for example, on one or both side legs 23 and / or the connecting element 22. Likewise, several busbars 4 can be provided. By appropriately providing the busbar(s) 4, the electrical or electronic components 3 can, for example, be electrically coupled to (at least one) of the busbar(s) 4 by partially inserting them into the interior 20. The components 3 can also preferably be mechanically coupled to the support profile 2 via the through-opening 24. For this purpose, the support profile 2 or the side legs 23 can have corresponding (elongated) structural areas.

[0042] Furthermore, the support rail 1 has an adapter element 5. The adapter element 5 in turn has a (see Figures 2-6 ) or several (cf. Figure 1 ) first connections 6. The first connection 6 preferably forms part of a standard interface, such as HDMI, USB, barrel connector, network connector (e.g., for LAN cables for Power over Ethernet (PoE)), and the like. Preferably, the first connection 6 forms a standardized connector socket of such a standard interface. For example, the Figure 1 Here are two USB ports each. 6. The Figure 2 Figure 5 shows an example of a barrel connector connection for each adapter element 5. Therefore, the adapter element 5 can have several first connections 6, which may be identical or different in design. For example, as shown in Figure 1As shown, several USB ports are provided. It is also conceivable to provide an adapter element 5 which provides different types of such first ports 6; for example, in addition to USB ports, also network connectors and, for example, jack plugs or any other form of corresponding first ports 6, preferably standardized ports, for connecting an electrical or electronic component 7 by means of a second port 70 corresponding to the first port 6.

[0043] The adapter element 5 further comprises a connecting element 8, wherein the first connection 6 can be electrically and / or signal-wise coupled to the busbar 4 via the connecting element 8, as exemplified in Figure 10As already mentioned, the first terminal 6 is designed for connecting a corresponding second terminal 70 of an electrical or electronic component 7. In this way, the electrical or electronic component 7 can be electrically and / or signal-wise coupled to the busbar 4 via the connecting element 8.

[0044] The adapter element 5 further comprises an adapter housing 9 for carrying the first connection 6 and / or the connecting element 8. The adapter element 5 and preferably its adapter housing 9 are preferably mechanically coupleable to the support profile 2 and / or the busbar 4. For this purpose, the adapter housing 9 can have a coupling structure 90, such as those found, for example, in the Figures 1 to 6 and 10This can be seen. By means of this coupling structure 90, the adapter housing 9 can be mechanically coupled to a coupling structure 25 of the support profile 2 and / or the busbar 4 that corresponds to the coupling structure 90, preferably to the retaining structure 21 of the support profile 2. The adapter housing 9 is preferably mechanically coupled to the support profile 2 via the coupling structures 90, 25 such that the adapter housing 9 is preferably displaceable along the longitudinal direction L of the elongated support profile 2. Measures can be provided to ultimately secure the adapter housing 9 in a position along the support profile 2; for example, by means of corresponding friction structures or by means of clamping or fastening elements.

[0045] How especially the Figures 1 to 6 and 10As can be seen, the adapter housing 9 can have a U-shape or C-shape in order to at least partially encircle the support profile 2. This is preferred at least when the adapter element 5 is mechanically coupled to the support profile 2, as is the case, for example, in the Figure 1 , 2 5, 6 and 10 The U-shape or C-shape allows the adapter element 5, or its adapter housing 9, to preferably rest laterally against opposite sides of the support profile 2, here against the side legs 23, by means of the side legs 91, in order to enable secure positioning and, if necessary, longitudinally displaceable guidance of the adapter housing 9 relative to the support profile 2. As shown in the Figure 1 and 2As shown, the connecting leg 92 on the rear side of the adapter housing 9 can have or provide the first connection(s) 6. Of course, these can also be located at other positions, for example on the adapter housing 9, or even provided separately.

[0046] For example, it is conceivable that, as in the Figures 3 and 4 It can be seen that the connecting element 8 with the first connection 6 is designed as a unit 10. This unit 10 is then preferably connectable to the adapter housing 9 via the connecting element 8 and, more preferably, detachably, as is particularly evident from the Figure 3 can be seen from this.

[0047] The connecting element 8 is electrically and / or signal-wise connected to the first terminal 6 via cable 11. This is, for example, the Figure 1 and 2 to be seen. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 3 to 6The connection of the connecting element 8 with the first terminal 6 via the cable 11 forms the unit 10 described above. The connecting element 8 can be, as in Figure 10 As shown, the connecting element can also be formed directly on or with the adapter housing 9. For example, the connecting element can protrude from the adapter housing 9 as a U- or C-shaped form extending inwards and have corresponding contact elements which then serve for electrical and / or signal coupling with the busbar 4. For example, by simply snapping the adapter housing 9 onto the support profile 2, a corresponding coupling of the connecting element 8 with the busbar 4 and thus of the first connection 6 via the connecting element 8 with the busbar 4 can be provided.

[0048] In principle, it is also conceivable that the connecting element 8 is detachably connected or connectable to the adapter housing 9, as is the case, for example, in the embodiment of the Figures 3 and 4 This can be seen. Here, the connecting element 8 can be at least partially inserted through a through-opening 50 through the adapter housing 9 and preferably also connected to it, in order to be made available for connection with the busbar 4 or to be brought into contact with it.

[0049] The connecting element 8 can preferably be detachably connected to the busbar 4 for electrical and / or signal coupling, and more preferably directly connected to it. In this way, simple assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of a mounting rail 1 according to the invention can be easily accomplished.

[0050] The support profile 2 can also have at least one through-opening 26. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 1 and 2 Several such through-openings 26 are provided, and these are furthermore arranged at regular intervals along the support profile 2 in the retaining structure 21. In principle, these through-openings 26 can also be provided in other areas of the support profile 2. The connecting element 8 is guided at least partially through one or more of the through-opening(s) 26 for electrical and / or signal-related coupling to the conductor rail 4, as shown in the Figure 1 and 2 indicated at the respective rear adapter element 5 as well as in Figure 10as shown. In this respect, the through-openings 26 are preferably positioned and oriented such that a corresponding connecting element 8, when it is passed through such a through-opening 26, can automatically be brought into coupling with the busbar 4 (cf. Figure 10 ).

[0051] A printed circuit board (PCB) can be provided between the connecting element 8 and the first terminal(s) 6 for transforming the voltage and / or current values ​​of the busbar 4 to those of the corresponding first terminal 6 or the components 7 to be coupled to it. The PCB can also be provided for transforming the signal from the first terminal 6, such as an Ethernet input, to a third terminal (not shown), such as an Ethernet output. In this case, the adapter element 5 preferably has the third terminal.

[0052] The adapter housing 9 can preferably have the first connection(s) 6 or the third connection(s), as exemplified in the Figure 1 and 2 This is shown. The (possibly detachable) integrated provision of the corresponding first and third connections allows for their secure positioning. Furthermore, stable and easy connection of corresponding components 7 to these connections 6 is ensured.

[0053] It is generally conceivable that each of the first connections 6, if several are provided, can be electrically and / or signal-wise connected to the busbar 4 via one or possibly several connecting elements 8. It is also conceivable that several or even all of the several first connections 6 can be electrically and / or signal-wise connected to the busbar 4 via one or more connecting elements 8. The composition and connection of first connections 6 with corresponding connecting elements 8 is not limited by the invention, but can rather be designed arbitrarily according to desired coupling profiles. For example, it is conceivable that different first connections 6 are to be connected to different areas or conductors 40 of the busbar 4, so that a corresponding division into several connecting elements 8 can be advantageous.It is also conceivable that, for example, a specific connection 6 is to be coupled with several areas or conductors 40 of a busbar 4 in order to be connected to different data strands, so that even a single first connection 6 can have several connecting elements 8.

[0054] How the Figures 3 to 6 As can be seen, the mounting rail 1 can further comprise an electrical or electronic component 7 that is preferably detachably connectable to it. This component, in turn, has a second connection 70 for connection with the corresponding first connection 6 of the adapter element 5 for electrical and / or signal coupling with the busbar 4 via the connecting element 8. The electrical or electronic component 7 can preferably be, as shown in the Figures 3 to 6As can be seen, the light fixture is a lamp, and in particular a spotlight. It is also conceivable that the lamp is, for example, a gooseneck lamp, which has a corresponding part of a standard interface, such as a USB plug, and can thus be directly connected to the corresponding first terminal 6. The components 7 can also be sensors, such as motion sensors or light sensors, radio beacons (e.g., for use in indoor navigation), WLAN repeaters, speakers, cameras, fans, and / or fire alarms, or other corresponding components 7, which are equipped with second terminals 70 to be coupled to corresponding first terminals 6. These components 7 can, for example, have radio modules for being controlled or for transmitting / receiving data.Control can also be achieved via a suitable connection using connecting element 8 and busbar 4. Preferably, the connection to busbar 4, which is made via the coupling of first terminal 6 and second terminal 70, is used to supply power to component 7. Preferably, as described above, a corresponding circuit board can then be provided to adapt the current or voltage values ​​of busbar 4 to those of the corresponding component 7.

[0055] The electrical or electronic component 7 can further comprise a coupling area 71 for mechanical coupling with the support profile 2 and / or the busbar 4 and / or the adapter element 5 and preferably its adapter housing 9. This is shown by way of example in the Figures 3 to 6The spotlight 7 shown here is mechanically coupled to the adapter housing 9. The mounting rail 1 and / or the electrical or electronic component 7 can further have a connecting axis 72 to mechanically couple the electrical or electronic component 7 to the support profile 2 and / or the busbar 4 and / or the adapter element 5, and preferably its adapter housing 9. A mechanically rotatable coupling by means of the connecting axis 72 is preferred in order to provide the component 7 with correspondingly greater degrees of freedom. The coupling area 71 is preferably connectable to the connecting axis 72 or, as shown, is formed with or includes it.

[0056] The adapter housing 9 can also be used, in particular, for the Figures 3 to 6As can be seen, the components have a guide rail 93 which can be mechanically coupled to the electrical or electronic component 7 in order to allow the electrical or electronic component 7 to slide along the guide rail 93. Coupling with the guide rail 93 can preferably be effected via the coupling area 71 or the connecting axis 72. As in the illustrated embodiment of the Figures 3 to 6As can be seen, this guide rail 93 can extend along the U-shape or C-shape of the adapter housing 9. Naturally, the guide rail 93 can be designed in any way to customize the degrees of freedom of the component 7 as desired. In the embodiment shown here, the guide rail 93 runs predominantly on one side of the adapter element 5 or the adapter housing 9, and thus also with respect to the support profile 2. To prevent the support rail 1 from tilting, for example in a pendulum suspension, a corresponding counterweight can be provided on the component 7 on the side of the adapter housing 9 opposite the guide rail 93. The counterweight can, for example, be designed to be removable so that it can be selected according to the component 7 to be used.It is also conceivable that the guide rail 93 extends over the entire length of the adapter housing 9, and that the counterweight is then also connected to the guide rail 93, but on the side opposite component 7. There are no limits to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] As in the Figure 1 , 2 , 5 and 6 indicated as well as in Figure 9 As shown, the support rail 1 can further comprise an electrical or electronic component 3 which can be electrically coupled to the or another busbar 4 and preferably its electrical conductors 40, and preferably, for example, mechanically coupled to the support profile 2. A mechanical coupling can be, for example, Figure 9As can be seen, the connection is made by means of locking devices 30, here in the form of a locking spring. Other connecting means are of course also conceivable. Electrical contact with (at least one) of the busbar(s) 4 can be provided via corresponding electrical contact elements 31, here in the form of a so-called rotary knob. Of course, other contact elements 31 are also conceivable. The electrical or electronic component 3 can preferably be a luminaire, such as, in particular, a linear luminaire or a spotlight. Figure 1 , 2 , 5 and 6 Here, a linear luminaire is shown as an example of component 3. It is also conceivable that component 3 could be a control gear and / or a sensor, as exemplified in [reference to diagram]. Figure 9 as indicated. Any conceivable sensor, such as motion sensors or light sensors, could be used.

[0058] The support rail 1 can further comprise a cable guide element 12. This element is intended to securely guide and hold any external cables 13 of the support rail 1. For this purpose, the cable guide element 12 preferably has at least one receiving section 120 for laterally inserting a cable 13 transversely to its longitudinal extent and for holding the cable 13. Furthermore, the cable guide element 12 preferably comprises a connecting structure 121 for mechanically connecting the cable guide element 12 to a corresponding connecting structure of the support profile 2. As shown, the corresponding connecting structure of the support profile 2 can preferably be the retaining structure 21. In this respect, existing structures can be used to attach the cable guide element 12.The cable guide element 12 is located at a position where cable routing is particularly desirable, as it is provided on the rear side of the support rail 1. Preferably, the cable guide element 12 is designed to be slidable along the support profile 2; this is possible, for example, due to the longitudinally extending profile of the retaining structure 21. Thus, the cable guide element 12 can be positioned or moved to any desired location.

[0059] The receiving sections 120 can be designed in various ways, as shown. For example, a spring tab 122 is conceivable, into which one or more cables 13 can be inserted laterally and thus held. Locking projections 125 on the spring tabs 122 can prevent the cables 13 from accidentally slipping out. Clamping tabs 123 are also conceivable, into which a cable 13 can be inserted laterally and locked; these can have opposing locking projections or undercut areas 126 for this purpose. It is also conceivable to provide retaining tabs 124, which, for example, allow a cable to be inserted laterally between this retaining tab 124 and, for example, a part of the support profile 2, in order to ultimately hold and guide a cable 13 between these components. These can also have locking projections 127 to prevent the cables 13 held in this way from slipping out.The present invention therefore places no limits on the design of the cable guide element 12. The cable guide element 12 is preferably made of plastic and particularly preferably manufactured using an injection molding process.

[0060] The cable management element 12 is particularly advantageous because the available space inside mounting rails 1 is usually very limited. Any additional cable runs originating from corresponding components 3 or parts 7 are provided on the back of the mounting rail 1 and are thus largely invisible or concealed by the mounting rail 1. One advantage is that, for example, additional data lines routed on the back are less susceptible to interference from magnetic fields than they would be within a power rail.

[0061] By providing several mounting rails, at least one of which is a mounting rail 1 according to the invention, a mounting rail system for connecting electrical or electronic components 3 can be formed. The mounting rails 1 can preferably be arranged longitudinally in series with one another. The busbars 4 of adjacent mounting rails 1, preferably their electrical conductors 40, can then be electrically coupled to one another. The mounting rail system can have a first connector for electrically and preferably also mechanically coupling the busbars 4. The mounting rail system can also have a second connector for mechanically coupling the support profiles 2, preferably by means of corresponding coupling structural areas of the support profile 2. The mounting rail system can also preferably have a connecting element, such as a connecting rail, which incorporates at least a portion of the first connector and / or the second connector.This allows for a particularly simple connection of several mounting rails 1. For example, the first connector can also be integrally designed with the busbar 4. A plug-socket connection is conceivable here, for instance. Similarly, the second connector can also be integrally designed with the mounting profile 2.

[0062] The present invention is not limited by the embodiments described above, provided it is encompassed by the subject matter of the following claims. In particular, the features of the different embodiments can be combined and interchanged in any way.

Claims

1. A carrier rail (1) for a carrier rail system, comprising: an elongate carrier profile (2); a busbar (4) having at least one electrical conductor (40) for electrically connecting electrical or electronic components (3), wherein the busbar (4) extends along the carrier profile (2); and an adapter element (5) with a first connection (6) and a connecting element (8), as well as an adapter housing (9) for holding the first connection (6) and / or the connecting element (8); wherein the first connection (6) is electrically and / or signal-wise coupleable to the busbar (4) via the connecting element (8); and wherein the first connection (6) is configured to connect a corresponding second connection (70) of an electrical or electronic component (7) such that the electrical or electronic component (7) can be electrically and / or signal-wise coupled to the busbar (4) via the connecting element (8); characterized in that the connecting element (8) is electrically and / or by means of signals connected to the first connection (6) via a cable (11).

2. The carrier rail (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the first connection (6) forms part of a standard interface, such as HDMI, USB, barrel connector, or network connector (for example for LAN cables for Power over Ethernet (PoE)), and is preferably a standardized connector socket of that interface.

3. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter element (5) has multiple first connections (6) which are the same or different in design, and wherein preferably each one, several, or all of the multiple first connections (6) are electrically and / or for signal transmission coupleable to the busbar (4) via one or more connecting elements (8).

4. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a circuit board is provided between the connecting element (8) and the one or more first connections (6) for transforming the voltage and / or current values of the busbar (4) to those of the first connection(s) (6), and / or for transforming from the first connection (6) (such as an Ethernet input) to a third connection (such as an Ethernet output), the adapter element (5) preferably having said third connection.

5. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter housing (9) has the first connection (6) and / or the third connection, and is preferably formed integrally with it.

6. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (8) is preferably detachably connectable to the busbar (4) for electrical and / or signal coupling, and / or wherein the connecting element (8) is formed directly on or with the adapter housing (9), and / or wherein the connecting element (8) is detachably connected to the adapter housing (9), and / or wherein the connecting element (8) and the first connection (6) are formed as a unit (10), which unit (10) is connectable to the adapter housing (9), preferably via the connecting element (8) and further preferably in a detachable manner.

7. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier profile (2) has at least one through-opening (26), the connecting element (8) being guided at least partially through the through-opening (26) for electrical and / or signal coupling with the busbar (4), and / or wherein the carrier profile (2) defines an interior (20) for at least partially accommodating electrical or electronic components (3), and / or wherein the carrier profile (2) has a support structure (21) for mechanical mounting of the carrier rail (1), and / or wherein the busbar (4) is received in or on the carrier profile (2), preferably in the interior (20) of the carrier profile (2), and / or wherein the carrier profile (2) has an open longitudinal side (24) via which the electrical or electronic components (3) can be electrically coupled to the busbar (4) and preferably mechanically coupled to the carrier profile (2).

8. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electrical or electronic component (7) having a second connection (70) for connecting to the corresponding first connection (6) of the adapter element (5) for electrical and / or signal coupling with the busbar (4), wherein the electrical or electronic component (7) is preferably a luminaire - in particular a spotlight or a gooseneck luminaire - a sensor - in particular a motion sensor or a brightness sensor - a beacon, a WLAN repeater, a loudspeaker, a camera, a fan, and / or a fire detector.

9. The carrier rail (1) according to Claim 8, further comprising a connecting axis (72) for mechanically coupling the electrical or electronic component (7) with the carrier profile (2) and / or the busbar (4) and / or the adapter element (5) (preferably the adapter housing (9)), and preferably in a rotatable manner, wherein the coupling region (71) is preferably connectable to the connecting axis (72) or comprises the connecting axis (72).

10. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter element (5), preferably the adapter housing (9), is mechanically coupleable to the carrier profile (2) and / or the busbar (4), wherein preferably the adapter housing (9) has a coupling structure (90) which is mechanically coupleable with a corresponding coupling structure of the carrier profile (2) and / or the busbar (4) (preferably a coupling structure of the support structure (21) of the carrier profile (2)), and is preferably mechanically coupleable in a slidable manner in the longitudinal direction (L) of the carrier rail (1).

11. The carrier rail (1) according to any of Claims 8-10, wherein the adapter housing (9) has a U-shape or a C-shape so as to at least partially encompass the carrier profile (2), preferably when the adapter element (5) is mechanically coupled to the carrier profile (2).

12. The carrier rail (1) according to any of Claims 8-11, wherein the adapter housing (9) has a guide rail (93) which is mechanically coupleable with the electrical or electronic component (7), preferably via the coupling region (71) or the connecting axis (72), so as to hold the electrical or electronic component (7) in a slidable manner along the guide rail (93).

13. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one electrical or electronic component (3) which is electrically coupled to the busbar (4) (preferably to the electrical conductors (40) thereof) and is preferably mechanically coupled to, for example, the carrier profile (2), wherein the electrical or electronic component (3) is preferably a luminaire - in particular a continuous-line luminaire or a spotlight - a control gear unit, and / or a sensor (in particular a motion sensor or a brightness sensor).

14. The carrier rail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a cable guiding element (12) which has at least one receiving section (120) for the lateral insertion of a cable (13) transverse to its longitudinal direction and for holding the cable (13), as well as a connecting structure (121) for mechanically connecting the cable guiding element (12) to a corresponding connecting structure - preferably the support structure (21) - of the carrier profile (2).

15. A carrier rail system for connecting electrical or electronic components (3), comprising a plurality of carrier rails, wherein at least one of the carrier rails is a carrier rail (1) according to any one of Claims 1-14, wherein the carrier rails (1) are preferably arranged longitudinally in series, and the busbars (4) of adjacent carrier rails (1) - preferably their electrical conductors (40) - are electrically coupled to each other, and wherein the carrier rail system further preferably comprises: a first connector for electrically and preferably also mechanically coupling the busbars (4), and / or a second connector for mechanically coupling the carrier profiles (2), preferably via corresponding coupling structure sections, and wherein the carrier rail system further preferably comprises a connecting part, such as a connecting rail, which has at least a portion of the first connector and / or of the second connector.