LIGHTING MODULE, LINEAR LIGHTING SYSTEM AND LIGHTING KIT

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a lighting module according to the preamble of independent claim 1 and to a linear lighting system with at least one such lighting module and to a lighting kit with several such lighting modules.

[0002] Such linear lighting modules with a carrier plate having a surface and a plurality of light-emitting diodes, wherein the surface of the carrier plate is equipped with the light-emitting diodes, a first coupling structure is arranged on the carrier plate, the first coupling structure is designed to connect the carrier plate to an adjacent light-emitting module or an operating device, the carrier plate is equipped with a forward line running away from the first coupling structure in a predefined current flow direction, to which line the light-emitting diodes are connected, and the carrier plate is equipped with a return line running towards the first coupling structure, can be used in a linear luminaire, as is often arranged or built into the ceilings and sometimes also on the walls or floors of rooms for illuminating them. State of the art

[0003] Today, longitudinal luminaires are often used to illuminate indoor and outdoor spaces. These luminaires extend along the length of a room or object where they are installed. Such luminaires are commonly referred to as linear luminaires and can be mounted directly on walls, suspended from ceilings, or mounted or attached to them, or even built into ceilings.

[0004] Linear luminaires typically comprise a straight or curved, usually elongated or longitudinal base profile or housing that is attached directly or indirectly to the object, wall, or ceiling. Linear luminaires also often feature a light bar along which a longitudinal light source, such as a fluorescent tube or a series of LEDs, or a plurality of light sources, along with associated control gear, is mounted.

[0005] When light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used as light sources, a dot-like line or patterned area is typically created on an illuminated surface without the need for additional optics or lenses. Therefore, such linear luminaires are usually equipped with optics that cover the light sources in such a way that the generated light is diffused or has preferred beam characteristics. This allows a light distribution curve (LCD) to be defined that is tailored to the intended use of the linear luminaire. For example, optics determine the color, dispersion, and / or direction of the emitted light. Such optics are also used to finish linear luminaires.

[0006] LED light sources typically have carrier plates fitted with the light-emitting diodes. Such carrier plates with light-emitting diodes are shown, for example, in EP 3 253 181 A1 and US 2016 / 0066372 A1. To supply power to the light-emitting diodes, the carrier plate is typically equipped with connections. For example, it is known to equip the carrier plate at its longitudinal ends with connectors as coupling structures, via which, on the one hand, the carrier plate can be connected to a power supply or an operating device, and on the other hand, several carrier plates can be combined to form an extended LED light source. The carrier plates are advantageously equipped with forward and return lines extending between the connections, with the light-emitting diodes connected to the forward lines. In this way, light sources for linear lights of different lengths can be efficiently assembled.The individual, pluggable, assembled carrier plates form a lighting module.

[0007] Although lamp modules of the type described above enable the efficient assembly of lamps of different lengths or sizes, which can be particularly advantageous for linear luminaires, care must be taken to ensure that the number of lamp modules per control gear is not excessive. In particular, the number of lamp modules per control gear is limited by the specific control gear. This limitation must be taken into account by the lighting designer or installation personnel when installing the luminaire. Furthermore, the forward and return lines of the last lamp module in a series of lamp modules connected to the control gear must be connected to each other so that current can flow from the control gear through all lamp modules and back again.

[0008] These and other limitations make the assembly and installation of conventional linear luminaires comparatively complicated and time-consuming. Accordingly, the susceptibility to errors in conventional linear luminaires and other luminaires constructed from linear luminaire modules is comparatively high.

[0009] Against this background, the object of the following invention is to propose a system or components that enable an efficient and error-resistant construction or assembly of a luminaire constructed from modules. Description of the invention

[0010] The object is achieved according to the invention by a linear lighting module as defined in independent claim 1, as well as by a linear lighting system as defined in independent claim 14, and a lighting kit as defined in independent claim 15. Advantageous embodiments of the invention emerge from the dependent claims.

[0011] In one aspect, the invention is a lighting module comprising a carrier plate, a plurality of light-emitting diodes, a first coupling structure, a forward line, and a return line. The carrier plate is equipped with the light-emitting diodes. The first coupling structure is arranged on the carrier plate. The first coupling structure is designed to connect the carrier plate to an adjacent lighting module or an operating device. The carrier plate is equipped with the forward line such that the forward line runs away from the first coupling structure in a predefined current flow direction. The light-emitting diodes are connected to the forward line. The carrier plate is equipped with the return line such that the return line runs in the current flow direction towards the first coupling structure.

[0012] In the context of the invention, the term "current flow direction" refers to the intended supply of the lamp module or a light bar composed of one or more lamp modules or other lamp. For the power supply, an operating device is typically connected directly or indirectly to the lamp module, so that the operating device generates a current flow through the supply line and to the LEDs, and then back to the operating device via the return line. The supply line is thus arranged such that, when the lamp module is used as intended, current flows from the first coupling structure through the supply line and away from the first coupling structure. Analogously, the return line is arranged such that, when the lamp module is used as intended, current flows through the return line to the first coupling structure.The forward and return lines are typically electrically connected to the first coupling structure.

[0013] Furthermore, the carrier plate of the inventive lighting module is equipped with a switch device and a current flow detection device. The switch device of the carrier plate is connected to the forward line and the return line. With regard to the switch device, the lighting module is designed such that the switch device is open when the current flow detection device detects a current flow, so that the forward line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device. With regard to the switch device, the lighting module is designed such that the switch device is closed when the current flow detection device does not detect a current flow, so that the forward line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the switch device.

[0014] Current flow can be detected passively or actively. Passive detection can be achieved by, for example, passing through an element or component, or interrupting it by that element or component, depending on its state. For example, the current flow may or may not reach the switch device depending on its state. Active detection can be achieved by, for example, measuring it.

[0015] The carrier plate can also be referred to as a circuit board. The carrier plate or circuit board can be a printed circuit board (PCB), which is a carrier for electronic components. In general, circuit boards are used for the mechanical attachment and electrical connection of electronic components. Printed circuit boards or circuit boards are usually made of an electrically insulating material with conductive connections (conductor tracks) adhered to it. Fiber-reinforced plastic is a common insulating material. The conductor tracks are usually etched from a thin layer of copper. The components are usually soldered onto soldering surfaces (pads) or into solder pads. Larger components can also be attached to the board with cable ties, adhesive, or screws. The carrier plate is populated with components attached to the board in this way.An element can be arranged on the carrier plate by being fastened to the circuit board in this way, by being connected to the carrier plate in another way, or by being formed on the carrier plate, for example by shaping.

[0016] The forward and return lines of the carrier plate can be designed as conductor tracks in the above sense.

[0017] The first coupling structure, as well as the second coupling structure described below, can be arranged on the carrier plate by being mounted thereon as components. For example, the carrier plate can be equipped with corresponding coupling elements, such as a plug or socket. Or they can have a structure formed in or on the carrier plate, such as a molding of the carrier plate. The first and second coupling structures are preferably corresponding electromechanical connecting parts.

[0018] Equipping the lamp module with the current flow detection device enables the lamp module to automatically determine whether it is connected to another lamp module or whether it is the last lamp module in a series of lamps connected in series to form a light bar, for example. If this is the case, the switch device is automatically closed, connecting the supply line to the return line. This completes the circuit from the control gear to the light bar and back, allowing the control gear to operate or supply power to the LEDs.

[0019] In this way, the inventive lamp module enables the efficient and error-resistant construction and assembly of a linear light or light bar composed of several such lamp modules. The assembled lamp modules can essentially configure and calibrate themselves.

[0020] Preferably, a second coupling structure is arranged on the carrier plate, which is designed to connect the carrier plate to an adjacent lighting module, wherein the forward line runs in the current flow direction from the first coupling structure to the second coupling structure and the return line runs in the current flow direction from the second coupling structure to the first coupling structure.

[0021] Such a lamp module enables the efficient coupling or interconnection of multiple lamp modules to form a light bar or other lamp. The first coupling structure of the first peripheral lamp module can be connected to the control gear, and the switch device of the opposite, last peripheral lamp module can be automatically closed.

[0022] The first and second coupling structures are intended, in particular, for electrical connection. At the same time, they can also be intended for mechanical connection. The coupling structures can thus be designed as electromechanical connecting parts, for example, in the form of a plug connection.

[0023] As mentioned above, the current flow detection device can be implemented in different ways. It can detect or record the current flow directly or indirectly. According to the invention, the current flow detection device comprises a current measuring device for actively detecting the current flow, which is connected to the return line and designed to measure a current flow in the return line. The lighting module is designed such that the switch device is open when the current flow measured by the current measuring device exceeds a current threshold value, so that the forward line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device, and such that the switch device is closed when the current flow measured by the current measuring device falls below the current threshold value, so that the forward line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the switch device.

[0024] With such a current measuring device, the current fed into the return line of a downstream lamp module can be efficiently detected. In particular, when detecting or measuring a current flow in the return line, it is assumed that another lamp module is connected downstream of the affected lamp module. This means that the switch device is kept open, so that there is no short circuit between the supply line and the return line on the lamp module itself; instead, the current is transferred from the supply line to the downstream lamp module.

[0025] If, however, the current measuring device detects no or insufficient current flow in the return line, it is concluded that no further lamp module is connected downstream, and the switch device is closed. This connects or shorts out the supply and return lines on the lamp module.

[0026] The current measuring device can be designed for highly sensitive, virtually lossless current measurement in the return line. In particular, the current threshold can be predefined to virtually zero.

[0027] The current measuring device of the carrier plate preferably comprises a current mirror circuit. Such a current mirror circuit can represent an efficient design of a sufficiently sensitive and reliable current measuring device. In particular, the current mirror circuit can comprise bipolar transistors.

[0028] The switch device of the carrier plate is preferably connected to the return line downstream of the current measuring device. This ensures that the switch device can be efficiently switched or adjusted depending on whether a current can be measured in the return line or not.

[0029] Preferably, the switch device of the support plate of the lighting module is connected to the supply line downstream of the LEDs in the current flow direction. Such an arrangement of the switch device allows current or a flow of energy from the switch device to be directed from the supply line to the return line, depending on the given situation, without impairing the operation of the LEDs on the lighting module itself.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, the current flow detection device comprises a detection current line with a first line section and a second line section for passively detecting the current flow. The first line section of the detection current line is connected to the second coupling structure and the switch device, and the second line section of the detection current line is connected to the first coupling structure and the return line. Such a configuration of the current flow detection device enables a current to be conducted from the return line via the first and second line sections to the switch device. For example, if the first coupling structure of the lighting module is connected to the second coupling structure of another corresponding lighting module, current can be conducted from the return line of the other lighting module to the switch device of the lighting module.This current or current signal can open the switch device, since in such a configuration the lamp module is not the last in the series of lamp modules of the associated light strip or lamp. If the two lamp modules are separated from each other, no such current flows and the switch device is closed, since in this configuration the lamp module is the last in the series of lamp modules of the associated light strip or lamp.

[0031] Preferably, the carrier plate is equipped with a detection current generation device designed to generate a detection current in the return line. Such a device can efficiently ensure that, in a given situation, a current flows in the return line that can be detected. In particular, such a current or detection current can be detected in a further lamp module connected upstream of the lamp module.

[0032] The second line section of the detection current line is preferably connected to the return line after the detection current generation device. This allows for an efficient implementation of the concept described above. In particular, a generated detection current can thus efficiently flow to the second line section.

[0033] The detection current generation device of the carrier plate preferably comprises a resistor connected to the forward line and the return line. The resistor can, in particular, be a high-ohm resistor. Such a resistor can ensure linear behavior. In particular, it enables a comparatively small detection current to be generated in the return line, which can be detected in another lamp module connected upstream of the lamp module. For example, such a detection current can be in the µA range, so that the load on the entire system can be neglected.

[0034] The resistor of the detection current generation device of the carrier plate is preferably connected to the forward line upstream of the LEDs in the current flow direction. Additionally or alternatively, the resistor of the detection current generation device of the carrier plate is preferably connected to the return line downstream of the switch device in the current flow direction. A resistor connected in this way enables the efficient generation of the detection current close to an upstream light module, where it can then be detected if necessary.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the lighting module, the carrier plate is equipped with a voltage measuring device, and the voltage measuring device of the carrier plate is connected to the supply line and the return line. The lighting module is configured such that the switch device is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device exceeds a voltage threshold, so that the supply line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the switch device, and such that the switch device is open when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device falls below the voltage threshold, so that the supply line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device.

[0036] This design of the lamp module can be used to avoid problems when designing the maximum length of a linear lamp constructed from multiple lamp modules, or the maximum size of a lamp or light bar constructed from multiple lamp modules. Exceeding this maximum size can lead to undefined operating states of a luminaire, such as a violation of the permitted operating range of an operating device due to an excessively high output voltage or power, so that the luminaire may begin to flicker or may no longer be able to be switched on. It is also possible that in such a case, the operating device may be able to operate the luminaire or lamp for a short time without any visible faults and then later fail.

[0037] By measuring the voltage with the voltage measuring device and closing the switch when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device exceeds the voltage threshold, it is possible to prevent further lamp modules from being supplied by the same control gear. In particular, the operating voltage can be monitored at the input of the lamp module connected to the control gear, and if the limit value tailored to the control gear used is exceeded, the switch can be closed. This disconnects the further lamp modules connected to the lamp module and only supplies the first lamp module connected to the control gear. This allows the luminaire or lamp to be in a fault state that is visually clearly distinguishable from the normal state.After correcting the maximum length or size of the lamp composed of several lamp modules, the normal state can be resumed.

[0038] This effectively prevents more lamp modules from being connected to a single control gear than the control gear is designed to power. This can improve the operational reliability of the luminaire or the lamp. Furthermore, it can enable simpler and less error-prone installation of a luminaire composed of linear luminaires according to the invention.

[0039] InIn another preferred embodiment of the lighting module, the carrier plate is equipped with a voltage measuring device and an overload switch device, wherein the voltage measuring device of the carrier plate is connected to the outgoing line and the return line between the outgoing line and the return line, and the overload switch device of the carrier plate is connected to the outgoing line and the return line between the outgoing line and the return line.The lighting module is designed such that the circuit breaker device is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device exceeds a voltage threshold value, so that the forward line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the circuit breaker device, and that the circuit breaker device is open when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device falls below the voltage threshold value, so that the forward line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the circuit breaker device.

[0040] The circuit breaker device, as an additional element in addition to the switch device, allows only a portion of the LEDs to be supplied with power and illuminate accordingly. For example, the LEDs can be divided into several groups, whereby only one of the groups is supplied with power when the circuit breaker device is closed. The brightness of the LEDs can also be adjusted, or a flashing signal can be generated using an additional element.

[0041] In addition to the aforementioned overload protection, a voltage measuring device and switch device can be used to generate a specific signal that allows for easy detection of an overload or an excessive number of lamp modules connected to the control gear. In particular, this allows a signal or feedback to be generated during installation indicating an existing overload.

[0042] The voltage measuring device preferably comprises a DIAC semiconductor. In In this context, the acronym "DIAC" stands for a self-igniting and holding switching element, specifically a diode for alternating current. Such a voltage measuring device enables simple and efficient voltage measurement and setting of a threshold value.

[0043] The carrier plate preferably has a number of predetermined breaking points along which the carrier plate can be divided, resulting in carrier plate segments, each of which is equipped with a plurality of LEDs. The carrier plate is equipped with a number of segment switch devices. One of the plurality of segment switch devices of the carrier plate is connected to the forward line upstream of each of the predetermined breaking points in the current flow direction, and one of the plurality of predetermined breaking points is connected to the return line downstream of each of the predetermined breaking points in the current flow direction.The lighting module is designed such that the at least one segment switch device is open when the carrier plate is not divided along the at least one predetermined breaking point, so that the forward line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the segment switch device, and that the at least one segment switch device is closed when the carrier plate is divided along the at least one predetermined breaking point, so that the forward line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the segment switch device.

[0044] With such a cascadable lamp module, the overall length of a lamp or light bar can be precisely and efficiently adjusted. In particular, such a lamp module allows the lamp or light bar to be cut to a preferred length as the termination. The segment switch device(s) can ensure that the supply line is connected to the return line on the last remaining carrier plate segment, thus creating a closed circuit.

[0045] In particular, this prevents the implementation of a light source or light bar in a building from being limited in terms of the desired overall length or size due to the fact that the light source modules used have a fixed length. This allows the lengths and sizes of the light sources to be precisely adapted to the existing conditions without having to implement light source modules of different lengths.

[0046] The carrier plate segments preferably have an end carrier plate segment where the forward line merges into the return line after the LEDs in the direction of current flow. Such an end carrier plate segment can easily provide a closed circuit if the light module is not disconnected.

[0047] Advantageously, the lighting module with predetermined breaking points is equipped with a number of current flow detection devices corresponding to the number of predetermined breaking points. In an efficient embodiment, these can each comprise a detection current line with a first line section and a second line section of the type described above.

[0048] In another aspect, the invention is a lighting module comprising a carrier plate with a surface and a plurality of light-emitting diodes, wherein the surface of the carrier plate is equipped with the light-emitting diodes, a first coupling structure is arranged on the carrier plate, the first coupling structure is designed to connect the carrier plate to an adjacent lighting module or an operating device, the carrier plate is equipped with a forward line running away from the first coupling structure in a predefined current flow direction, to which the light-emitting diodes are connected, and the carrier plate is equipped with a return line running towards the first coupling structure.The carrier plate is equipped with a voltage measuring device, the voltage measuring device of the carrier plate is connected to the supply line and to the return line, and the lighting module is designed such that the switch device is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device exceeds a voltage threshold value, so that the supply line and the return line are electrically connected to one another via the switch device, and that the switch device is open when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device falls below the voltage threshold value, so that the supply line and the return line are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device.

[0049] With such a lighting module, the above-described effects and advantages of equipping it with a voltage measuring device can be achieved without the lighting module having to have a current flow detection device. Preferred embodiments of the lighting module according to the other aspect of the invention can have all of the above-described features individually or in combination in addition to the voltage measuring device.

[0050] In another aspect, the invention is a linear luminaire kit comprising a plurality of luminaire modules as described above and at least one operating device. In particular, the luminaire modules can be matched to the specific operating device. Such a linear luminaire kit enables efficient construction or efficient assembly of a linear luminaire. In particular, the above-described effects and advantages of the invention and its preferred embodiments can be efficiently implemented. In the linear luminaire kit according to the invention, the plurality of luminaire modules advantageously comprise at least one luminaire module with a number of predetermined breaking points as described above.

[0051] In yet another aspect, the invention is a linear lighting system comprising a plurality of illuminant modules of the type described above and at least one operating device. Such a linear lighting system enables efficient realization of the above-described effects and advantages of the invention and its preferred embodiments. The plurality of illuminant modules advantageously comprises at least one illuminant module with a number of predetermined breaking points as described above. Short description of the drawings

[0052] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawing. In particular, the inventive lighting module, the inventive lighting kit, and the inventive linear lighting system are described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments in the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a linear lighting system from the prior art; Fig. 2 is a schematic view of another linear lighting system from the prior art; Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a lighting module according to the invention; Fig. 4 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a lighting kit according to the invention with lighting modules according to Fig. 3constructed first embodiment of a linear lighting system according to the invention; Fig. 5 a circuit diagram of some components of the lighting module of Fig. 3 ; Fig. 6 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a linear illuminant system according to the invention constructed from a second embodiment of an inventive illuminant kit with second embodiments of illuminant modules; Fig. 7 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of an inventive illuminant module; Fig. 8 is a circuit diagram of some components of the illuminant module of Fig. 7; Fig. 9 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of a linear lighting system according to the invention constructed from a third embodiment of a lighting kit according to the invention with fourth embodiments of lighting modules; and Fig. 10 shows a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of a lighting module according to the invention. Way(s) of carrying out the invention

[0053] Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience and are not to be construed as limiting. The words "right," "left," "bottom," and "top" indicate directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms "inward," "outward," "below," "above," "left," "right," or similar terms are used to describe the relative arrangement of designated parts, the relative movement of designated parts, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and designated parts thereof as illustrated in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those illustrated in the figures. For example, if a part illustrated in the figures is turned over, elements or features described as "below" are then "above."The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives of the same and words of similar meaning.

[0054] In order to avoid repetitions in the figures and the associated description of the various aspects and embodiments, certain features should be understood as being common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is missing in the associated embodiment. Rather, such omission can serve to increase clarity and avoid repetitions. In this context, the following stipulation applies to the entire further description: If reference symbols are included in a figure for the purpose of graphic unambiguity but are not mentioned in the immediately associated descriptive text, reference is made to their explanation in preceding figure descriptions.If the descriptive text directly associated with a figure contains reference symbols that are not included in the corresponding figure, reference is made to the preceding and subsequent figures. Similar reference symbols in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0055] Fig. 1shows a state-of-the-art linear lighting system comprising several individual LED modules. The LED modules each have at least two connections (+ / - poles). Through appropriate wiring or using connectors between the individual LED modules, these are assembled into a light line. A control gear (BG) serves as the power supply. This supplies power to a specified number of serially connected LED modules. The maximum number of LED modules per control gear is limited and must be considered by the installation personnel and / or lighting planner. Such a unit, consisting of a control gear and several LED modules, is referred to as a light bar or linear light source. The linear lighting system can contain one or more light bars.

[0056] The last LED module of a light bar must be connected to the control gear to ensure that a current flow can occur. For this purpose, the light bar must be Fig. 1An external return line is provided, which must be individually installed and stowed by the installation personnel.

[0057] In Fig. 2 A state-of-the-art linear lighting system with an improved return line is shown. In particular, the return line is provided in sections within the lamp modules. By integrating the return line into the LED modules, the LED module becomes more modular. The individual LED modules are equipped with four connections to connect both the supply line and the return line of neighboring LED modules. Ideally, such LED modules are interconnected using a plug-in connection system, thus avoiding wiring effort. Here, too, the maximum number of LED modules per control gear must be taken into account, and the light bar must be short-circuited at the end with a connector between the supply line and return line to allow current to flow.

[0058] Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of a lighting module 1 according to the invention. The lighting module 1 comprises a carrier plate 11 with a surface and a plurality of light-emitting diodes 16. The surface of the carrier plate 11 is equipped with the light-emitting diodes 16. For the sake of clarity, Fig. 3 only one chain of serially connected light-emitting diodes 16 is shown, wherein the carrier plate 11 is typically equipped with several parallel-connected chains of serially connected light-emitting diodes 16.

[0059] On a left input side, the lighting module 11 is equipped with a first, for example, double-pole electromechanical connector 121 as a first coupling structure, and on a right output side with a second, for example, double-pole electromechanical connector 122 as a second coupling structure. The first electromechanical connector 121 is designed to connect the carrier plate 11 to a lighting module 1 or an operating device adjacent to the left. Similarly, the second electromechanical connector 122 is designed to connect the carrier plate 11 to a lighting module 1 adjacent to the right.

[0060] The first connector 121 and the second connector 122 are connected to each other via a forward line 14 and a return line 15. A predefined current flow direction is formed in the forward line 14 from the first connector 121 to the second connector 122, and in the return line 15 from the second connector 122 to the first connector 121. The LEDs 16 are connected to the forward line 14 and are supplied with power via it during operation.

[0061] The carrier plate 11 is further equipped with a switch device 17 and a current measuring device 18 as a current flow detection device. The switch device 17 is connected to the forward line 14 downstream of the LEDs 16 in the current flow direction and to the return line 15 downstream of the current measuring device 18. The current measuring device 18 is connected to the return line 15 between the second connector 122 and the switch device 17. The current measuring device 18 is designed to measure a current flow in the return line 15. It is further connected to the switch device 17 such that it opens the switch device 17 when a current flow measured by the current measuring device 18 exceeds a current threshold value. In this state, the forward line 14 and the return line 15 are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device 17.If the current flow measured by the current measuring device 18 falls below the current threshold value, the current measuring device 18 closes the switching device 17. In this state, the forward line 14 and the return line 15 are electrically connected to one another via the switching device 17.

[0062] Furthermore, the carrier plate 11 is equipped with a high-ohm resistor 13 of a detection current generation device. The resistor 13 is connected to the forward line 14 upstream of the LEDs 16 in the current flow direction and to the return line 15 downstream of the switch device 17 in the current flow direction.

[0063] In Fig. 4A first exemplary embodiment of a linear illuminant system 3 according to the invention is shown. The linear illuminant system 3 is constructed from a first exemplary embodiment of a illuminant kit 2 according to the invention. The illuminant kit 2 comprises an operating device 21 and a plurality of identical illuminant modules 1, one of which is shown in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0064] The lamp modules 1 are mounted to one another lengthwise via their first connectors 121 and their second connectors 122. The first, or leftmost, lamp module 1 is connected to the control gear 21, with a positive pole of the control gear 21 connected to the forward line 14 and a negative pole of the control gear 21 connected to the return line 15.

[0065] Each lamp module 1 is designed to detect a subsequent lamp module 1. To ensure that this detection occurs immediately after the operating device 21 is switched on and remains independent of non-linear impedance curves of the LEDs 16, a resistor 13 is arranged on the input side of each of the lamp modules 1. The resistors 13 of the lamp modules 1 each generate a comparatively small detection current into the return line 15 of the preceding lamp module 1. The load on the linear lamp system 3 caused by the resistors 13 can be neglected since the detection current is in the µA range.

[0066] The current measuring devices 18 of the lighting modules 1 are each designed to measure a current flow, such as, in particular, the detection current in the return line 15. They are further each connected to the associated switch device 17, so that the switch device 17 opens when a current flow measured by the current measuring device 18 exceeds a current threshold. In this state, the forward line 14 and the return line 15 are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device 17. If the current flow measured by the current measuring device 18 falls below the current threshold, the current measuring device 18 closes the switch device 17. Fig. 4This is the case with the rightmost lamp module 1, since no further lamp module 1 is connected downstream and thus no detection current flows in the return line. In this state, the forward line 14 and the return line 15 are electrically connected or short-circuited to one another via the switch device 17'. In this way, the light bar composed of the plurality of lamp modules 1 essentially configures itself during assembly. Manually establishing a connection between the forward line 14 and the return line 15 of the last lamp module 1 is no longer necessary.

[0067] The implemented measuring principle is based on a nearly lossless, sensitive current measurement (Iret) in the return line 15. If no current flows (Iret=0), the return line 15 in the respective lamp module 1 is automatically closed by means of the switch device 17. However, if a small current (Iret>0) generated by the subsequent lamp module already flows, the switch device 17 remains open and the return line 15 remains open. This principle can be used for pulse width modulation (PWM) and also for continuous dimming processes of operating devices 21.

[0068] As in Fig. 5As can be seen, the current measuring device 18 comprises a current mirror circuit composed of bipolar transistors (Q2, Q3). A MOS field-effect transistor (Q1) serves as the RET (AR). To improve immunity to interference, Q4 ensures that a return line RET (Q1) once closed cannot be unexpectedly opened again. R21, R24 form the detection resistor Rsense. The additional components serve to optimize the response level and sensitivity of the method.

[0069] Fig. 6 shows a second embodiment of a linear illuminant system 30 according to the invention. The linear illuminant system 30 is constructed from a second embodiment of a illuminant kit 20 according to the invention. The illuminant kit 20 comprises an operating device 210 and a plurality of identical illuminant modules 10, one of which is Fig. 6 is shown in more detail.

[0070] The lighting module 10 comprises a carrier plate 110 with a surface and a plurality of serially connected light-emitting diodes 160. The surface of the carrier plate 110 is equipped with the light-emitting diodes 160, which are structured into a first group of light-emitting diodes 160' and a second group of light-emitting diodes 160". On a left input side, the lighting module 110 is equipped with a first electromechanical connector 1210 as a first coupling structure and on a right output side with a second electromechanical connector 1220 as a second coupling structure.

[0071] The first connector 1210 and the second connector 1220 are connected to each other via a forward line 140 and a return line 150. A predefined current flow direction is formed in the forward line 140 from the first connector 1210 to the second connector 1220, and in the return line 150 from the second connector 1220 to the first connector 1210. The LEDs 160 are connected to the forward line 140 and are supplied with power via it during operation.

[0072] The carrier plate 110 is further equipped with a switch structure 170 and a current measuring device 180 as a current flow detection device. The switch structure 170 comprises a switch device 1710, which is connected to the forward line 140 downstream of the LEDs 160 in the current flow direction and to the return line 150 downstream of the current measuring device 180. The current measuring device 180 is connected to the return line 150 between the second connector 1220 and the switch device 1710.

[0073] The lamp module 10 is configured to detect a downstream lamp module 10 in a similar way to the lamp module 1 of Fig. 3In particular, the current measuring device 180 is also configured to measure a current flow in the return line 150, to open the switch device 1710 when a current flow measured by the current measuring device 180 exceeds a current threshold, and to close the switch device 1710 when the current flow measured by the current measuring device 180 falls below the current threshold.

[0074] Furthermore, the carrier plate 110 is equipped with a voltage measuring device 130 and a circuit breaker device 1720 of the switch structure 170. The voltage measuring device 130 is connected to the forward line 140 upstream of the LEDs 160 in the current flow direction. The circuit breaker device 1720 is connected to the forward line 140 between the first group of LEDs 160' and the second group of LEDs 160". Furthermore, the voltage measuring device 130 is connected upstream of the first connector 1210 in the current flow direction, and the circuit breaker device 1720 is connected to the return line 150 between the switch device 1710 and the voltage measuring device 130.

[0075] The voltage measuring device 130 is connected to the circuit breaker device 1720. The lighting module 10 is configured such that the circuit breaker device 1720 is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device 130 exceeds a voltage threshold. In this state, the forward line 140 and the return line 150 are electrically connected to one another via the circuit breaker device 1720. Thus, only the first group of LEDs 160' is supplied with current and thus operated, while the second group of LEDs 160" is not operated. If the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device 130 falls below the voltage threshold, the circuit breaker device 1720 is open, so that the forward line 140 and the return line 150 are not electrically connected to one another via the circuit breaker device.

[0076] This configuration of the lamp module 10 enables a safe design of the maximum length of a light bar composed of multiple lamp modules 10. In particular, it can prevent undefined operating states of the light bar from being caused by exceeding the maximum length, which could violate the permitted operating range of the operating device 210, for example, due to an excessively high output voltage or power. By monitoring the operating voltage at the input of the lamp module 10, which is directly connected to the operating device 210, the overload switch device 1720 is immediately closed if the voltage threshold value matched to the operating device 210 is exceeded.This disconnects all downstream light modules 10 from the current flow generated by the control gear 210, and only the first group of light sources 160' of the light module 10 connected to the control gear 210 is supplied with power. This makes a fault condition visible, clearly distinguishable from a normal condition. After correcting the maximum length of a light bar, the system restarts normal operation.

[0077] In Fig. 7 A third embodiment of a lighting module 100 according to the invention is shown. The lighting module 100 comprises a carrier plate 1100 with a surface and a plurality of light-emitting diodes 1600 arranged on the surface. The light-emitting diodes 1600 are organized into a first row of light-emitting diodes 1600' and a second row of light-emitting diodes 1600" connected in parallel. The second row of light-emitting diodes 1600" is divided into two groups.

[0078] On a left input side, the lighting module 1100 is equipped with a first electromechanical connector 12100 as a first coupling structure, and on a right output side, with a second electromechanical connector 12200 as a second coupling structure. The first electromechanical connector 12100 is designed to connect the carrier plate 1100 to a lighting module 100 or an operating device adjacent to the left. Similarly, the second electromechanical connector 12200 is designed to connect the carrier plate 1100 to a lighting module 100 adjacent to the right.

[0079] The first connector 12100 and the second connector 12200 are connected to each other via a forward line 1400 and a return line 1500. The LEDs 1600 are connected to the forward line 1400 and are supplied with power by an operating device during operation.

[0080] The carrier plate 1100 is further equipped with a switch structure 1700 and a current measuring device 1800 as a current flow detection device. The switch structure 1700 comprises a switch device 17100, which is connected to the forward line 1400 downstream of the LEDs 1600 and to the return line 1500 downstream of the current measuring device 1800. The current measuring device 1800 is connected to the return line 1500 between the second connector 12200 and the switch device 17100.

[0081] The lamp module 100 is configured to detect a downstream lamp module 100 in a similar way to the lamp module 1 of Fig. 3 and to the lamp module 10 of Fig. 6In particular, current measuring device 1800 is configured to measure a current flow in return line 1500, to open switch device 17100 when a current flow measured by current measuring device 1800 exceeds a current threshold, and to close switch device 17100 when the current flow measured by current measuring device 1800 falls below the current threshold.

[0082] Furthermore, the carrier plate 1100 is equipped with a voltage measuring device 1300 and an overload switch device 17200 of the switch structure 1700. The voltage measuring device 1300 is connected to the forward line 1400 upstream of the LEDs 1600 in the current flow direction. The overload switch device 17200 is connected to the forward line 1400 between the first group of LEDs and the second group of LEDs of the second row of LEDs 1600. Furthermore, the voltage measuring device 1300 is connected upstream of the first connector 12100 in the current flow direction, and the overload switch device 17200 is connected to the return line 1500 between the switch device 17100 and the voltage measuring device 1300.

[0083] The voltage measuring device 1300 is connected to the circuit breaker device 17200 via an oscillator 1900. The lighting module 100 is configured such that the circuit breaker device 17200 is temporarily closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device 1300 exceeds a voltage threshold. In In this state, the forward line 1400 and the return line 1500 are alternately electrically connected and electrically disconnected via the circuit breaker device 17200. This generates a dynamic flashing signal, indicating incorrect installation or an overload of the operating device. If the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device 1300 falls below the voltage threshold, the circuit breaker device 17200 is open, so that the forward line 1400 and the return line 1500 are not connected to each other via the circuit breaker device.

[0084] In particular, in the lighting module 100, the number of LEDs 1600 is divided into two rows A1, A2 of LEDs 1600', 1600" to indicate a fault condition. In group A2, the serial number of LEDs 1600" is reduced by N2 LEDs 1600" compared to group N1 by means of the overload switch device 17200. This reduces the operating voltage at the input of the return line 1500 and, due to the characteristic operating curve of the LEDs 1600, group A2 takes over almost the entire operating current of the operating device. As a result, no or a reduced current flows through group A1, which reduces the brightness or switches it off completely. The difference in luminosity between A1 and A2 can be determined by the value N2. To visualize the fault condition even more clearly, the overload switch device 1720 is connected to the oscillator 1900 so that it can dynamically controlled (OSC).This creates a periodic alternation between normal operation, in which all 1600 LEDs are operating, and an error pattern.

[0085] As in Fig. 8 As can be seen, the circuit for dynamically indicating the fault condition consists of the voltage measuring device 1300 as voltage monitoring at the input (Vin block), the overload switch device 1720 (OV), and an auxiliary voltage for the oscillator 1900 (OSC). This is generated by a shunt regulator (Z-diode) in the path to the overload switch device 17200. The circuit causes a periodic dimming of group A1 and a brightening of group A2 compared to normal operation.

[0086] Fig. 9 shows a light bar with a series of fourth embodiments of lighting modules 101, which do not fall under the scope of protection of the claims. In an analogous construction to the lighting module 1 of Fig. 3Each of the lighting modules 101 comprises a forward line 1401, a return line 1501, light-emitting diodes 160, a switch device 1701, a first, for example, three-pole electromechanical connector 12101 as a first coupling structure, a second, for example, three-pole electromechanical connector 12201 as a second coupling structure, and a resistor 1301 of a detection current generating device. This resistor 1301 enables the lighting module 101 to Fig. 9 also, for example, to a lamp module 1, as shown in Fig. 3shown. Instead of the current measuring device, the lighting module 101 comprises a detection current line 1801 with a first line section 18201 and a second line section 18101 as a current flow detection device. The first line section 18201 of the detection current line 1801 is connected to the second connector 12201 and the switch device 1701. The second line section 18101 of the detection current line 1801 is connected to the first connector 12101 and the return line 1501, wherein the second line section 18101 is connected to the return line 1501 downstream of the switch device 1701 and the resistor 1301 in the current flow direction. The first connector 12101 and the second connector 12201 are thus formed with three contact points, a first contact point for the forward line 1401, a second contact point for the return line 1501 and a third contact point for the detection current line 1801.

[0087] The lighting module 101 is designed such that the switch device 1701 is opened when a detection current flows to the switch device 1701 via the connected detection current line 1801. The connected detection current line 1801 consists of the first line section 18201 of a first lighting module 101 and a second line section 18101 of an adjacent or downstream second lighting module 101. In this left lighting module 101 of Fig. 9In the state shown, the forward line 1401 and the return line 1501 are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device 1701. If the detection current line 1801 is not connected, or if the first line section 18201 of the first lamp module 101 and the second line section 18101 of the adjacent second lamp module 101 are separated from one another, the switch device 1701 is closed. In this state in the right lamp module 101' of Fig. 9 In the state shown, the forward line 1401 and the return line 1501 are electrically connected to one another via the switch device 1701. As a result, the forward line 1401' and the return line 1501' are automatically short-circuited at the last or rightmost lamp module 101'.

[0088] In Fig. 10A fifth embodiment of a lamp module 102 is shown, which does not fall within the scope of the claims. The lamp module 102 is provided as the final lamp module 102 of a light strip, or the one furthest away from an operating device. For example, the lamp module 102 is provided with lamp modules 1 according to Fig. 3 usable.

[0089] The lighting module 102 comprises a carrier plate 1102 with a surface and a plurality of light-emitting diodes 1602 mounted on the surface.

[0090] On a left input side, the lighting module 1102 is equipped with a first electromechanical connector 1202 as a first coupling structure. The first electromechanical connector 1202 is designed to mechanically and electrically connect the carrier plate 1102 to a lighting module 1 adjacent to the left.

[0091] The carrier plate 1102 has a plurality of straight predetermined breaking points 1902 along which the carrier plate 1102 can be divided. The predetermined breaking points 1902 define carrier plate segments 11102, a left-side starting carrier plate segment 11302 with the first connector 1202, and an end carrier plate segment 11202 at the right end of the lighting module 102 facing away from the first connector 1202. The surfaces of the carrier plate segments 11102, the starting carrier plate segment 11302, and the end carrier plate segment 11202 are each equipped with several of the light-emitting diodes 1602.

[0092] The carrier plate segments 11102 and the starting carrier plate segment 11302 are each equipped with a segment switch device 1702. In particular, a segment switch device 1702 is connected to the forward line 1402 upstream of the predetermined breaking point 1902 delimiting the associated carrier plate segment 11102 or starting carrier plate segment 11302, respectively, and to the return line downstream of this predetermined breaking point 1902.

[0093] Furthermore, the carrier plate segments 11102 and the starting carrier plate segment 11302 are each equipped with a series resistor 1302 of a detection current generation device and a second line section 18102 of a detection current line 1802. The series resistors 1302 are each connected to the forward line 1402 and the return line 1502 of the associated carrier plate segment 11102 and starting carrier plate segment 11302, respectively. The carrier plate segments 11102 and the end carrier plate segment 11202 are each equipped with a first line section 18202 of the detection current line 1802. In particular, adjacent first and second line sections 18202, 18102 each form one of the detection current lines 1802 via one of the predetermined breaking points 1902. The detection current lines 1802 each connect one of the segment switch devices 1702 to the return line 1502 via one of the predetermined breaking points 1902.

[0094] The lighting module 102 is configured such that the segment switch devices 1702 are open as long as a detection current is supplied to them via the associated detection current lines 1802. If the carrier plate 1102 is severed along one of the predetermined breaking points 1902, the detection current lines 1802 running through it are also severed into the first line section 18202 and the second line section 18102. In this state, no more detection current flows to the segment switch device 1702 connected to this first line section 18202, so that it is closed. In this way, the segment switch devices 1702 are open when the carrier plate 102 is not severed along the associated predetermined breaking point 1902 and are closed when the carrier plate 102 is severed along the associated predetermined breaking point 1902.

[0095] By using the illuminant module 102 together with other illuminant modules, a linear lighting system according to the invention can be efficiently constructed and assembled with respect to a desired overall length. In particular, it can be avoided that the length of the illuminant system is limited to a multiple of the length of the installed illuminant modules. During on-site assembly, the illuminant module 102 can be separated to the desired length at the predetermined breaking points 1902, whereby the illuminant module 102 configures itself. The circuit of the separable illuminant module 102, which is inserted at the end of the linear lighting system, can have a MOSFET transistor as the segment switch device 1702, which enables virtually lossless control so that the series resistor 1302 (R) can be comparatively large without influencing the LED current.Alternatively, a bipolar transistor with high gain (Hfe) would also be possible. At the predetermined breaking points 1902, the control input (gate, base) of transistor Q is separated from the return line 1502, and the series resistor 1302 turns on the transistor Q. The series resistor 1302 simultaneously assumes the function of generating the detection current.

[0096] Although the invention is illustrated and described in detail by means of the figures and the associated description, this illustration and this detailed description are to be understood as illustrative and exemplary and not as limiting the invention. In order not to obscure the invention, in certain cases, well-known structures and techniques may not be shown and described in detail. It is understood that those skilled in the art may make changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the present invention covers further embodiments with any combinations of features that may differ from the explicitly described combinations of features. For example, the invention may also be implemented in the following form: The three concepts shown in the figures by means of different embodiments of illuminant modules (current flow detection, voltage measurement and breakable carrier plate) can also be implemented in any combination on a illuminant module or in a illuminant kit, whereby at least current flow detection must be provided.

[0097] The present disclosure also encompasses embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above or below for various embodiments. It also encompasses individual features in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. Furthermore, the alternative embodiments described in the figures and the description and individual alternative features thereof may be excluded from the disclosed subject matter. The disclosure encompasses embodiments that exclusively comprise the features described in the claims or in the exemplary embodiments, as well as those that comprise additional other features.

[0098] Furthermore, the term "comprising" and derivatives thereof does not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and derivatives thereof does not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims may be performed by a single unit or step. The terms "substantially," "about," "approximately," and the like, in connection with a property or value, specifically define the property or value. The terms "about" and "approximately" in connection with a given numerical value or range may refer to a value or range that is within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range.

Claims

1. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) comprising a carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102), a plurality of light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602), a first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 1202), an to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402), and a return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), wherein the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602), the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 1202) is arranged on the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) and is configured to connect the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) to an adjacent lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) or an operating device (21; 210), the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) extends in a predefined current flow direction away from the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 1202), the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602) are connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102), the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) extends in the current flow direction toward the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 1202), the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with a switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) and a current flow detection device (18; 180; 1800; 1802; 1802), wherein the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), and the current flow detection device (18; 180; 1800; 1802; 1802) comprises a current measuring device (18; 180; 1800) which is connected to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) and is configured to measure a current flow in the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), and the lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) is configured in such a way that the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) is open when the current flow detection device (18; 180; 1800; 1802; 1802) detects a current flow and when the current flow measured by the current measuring device (18; 180; 1800) exceeds a current threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are not electrically connected to one another via the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702), and the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) is closed when the current flow measured by the current measuring device (18; 180; 1800) is below the current threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are connected to one another via the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702).

2. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 1, wherein a second coupling structure (122; 1220; 12200; 12201) is arranged on the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102), which coupling structure is configured to connect the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) to an adjacent lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102), the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) extends in the current flow direction from the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 12102) to the second coupling structure (122; 1220; 12200; 12201), and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) extends in the current flow direction from the second coupling structure (122; 1220; 12200; 12201) to the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 12102).

3. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the current measuring device (18; 180; 1800) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) comprises a current mirror circuit.

4. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) downstream of the current measuring device (18; 180; 1800) in the current flow direction.

5. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) downstream of the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602) in the current flow direction.

6. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the current flow detection device (18; 180; 1800; 1802; 1802) comprises a detection current line (1801; 1802) which has a first line portion (18201; 18202) and a second line portion (18101; 18102), wherein the first line portion (18201; 18202) of the detection current line (1801; 1802) is connected to the second coupling structure (122; 1220; 12200; 12201) and to the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702), and the second line portion (18101; 18102) of the detection current line (1801; 1802) is connected to the first coupling structure (121; 1210; 12100; 12101; 1202) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502).

7. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with a detection current generating device (13; 1301; 1302) which is configured to generate a detection current in the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502).

8. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 6 and 7, wherein the second line portion (18101; 18102) of the detection current line (1801; 1802) is connected to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) downstream of the detection current generating device (13; 1301; 1302).

9. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the detection current generating device (13; 1301; 1302) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) comprises a resistor which is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), wherein the resistor of the detection current generating device (13; 1301; 1302) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is preferably connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) upstream of the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602) in the current flow direction.

10. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 9, wherein the resistor of the detection current generating device (13; 1301; 1302) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) downstream of the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) in the current flow direction.

11. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with a voltage measuring device (130; 1300), the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), and the lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) is configured in such a way that that the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) exceeds a voltage threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are connected to one another via the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701), and that the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702) is open when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) is below the voltage threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are not connected to one another via the switch device (17; 1710; 17100; 1701; 1702).

12. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with a voltage measuring device (130; 1300) and an overload switch device (1720), wherein the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) between the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), the overload switch device (1720) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) between the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502), and the lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) is configured in such a way that the overload switch device (1720) is closed when a voltage measured by the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) exceeds a voltage threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are electrically connected to one another via the overload switch device (1720), and the overload switch device (1720) is open when the voltage measured by the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) is below the voltage threshold value, such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are not electrically connected to one another via the overload switch device (1720).

13. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the voltage measuring device (130; 1300) comprises a DIAC semiconductor.

14. Lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) has a number of predetermined breaking points (1902) along which the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) can be divided, such that carrier plate segments (11102) are present, which are each equipped with a plurality of the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602), the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is equipped with a number of segment switch devices (1702), wherein in each case one of the number of segment switch devices (1702) of the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is connected to the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) upstream of each of the number of predetermined breaking points (1902) in the current flow direction, and is connected to the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) downstream of each of the number of predetermined breaking points (1902) in the current flow direction, the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) preferably has an end carrier plate segment (11202) at which the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) transitions into the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) downstream of the light-emitting diodes (16; 160; 1600; 1601; 1602) in the current flow direction, and the lighting module (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) is configured in such a way that the at least one segment switch device (1702) is open when the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is not divided along the at least one predetermined breaking point (1902), such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are not electrically connected to one another via the segment switch device (1702), and the at least one segment switch device (1702) is closed when the carrier plate (11; 110; 1100; 1101; 1102) is divided along the at least one predetermined breaking point (1902), such that the to-line (14; 140; 1400; 1401; 1402) and the return line (15; 150; 1500; 1501; 1502) are electrically connected to one another via the segment switch device (1702).

15. Lighting kit comprising a plurality of lighting modules (1; 10; 100; 101; 102) according to any of the preceding claims and comprising at least one operating device (21; 210).

16. Linear lighting system constructed from a lighting kit according to claim 15.