Adjustable lighting device for interior furnishing

Abstract

The present invention relates to an adjustable lighting device (10) adapted to be fixed to a support surface (S1) of a piece of furniture or of an inner wall of a room. The lighting device (10) comprises an elongated body (12) extending along a longitudinal direction (L1), a lighting unit (14) associated with the elongated body (12), and support bracket means (16) configured to rotatably connect the elongated body (12) to the support surface (S1). Specifically, the elongated body (12) comprises a guide channel (50) having at least partially substantially an arched shape in cross-section, and the support bracket means (16) include at least one intermediate bracket (54). Said at least one intermediate bracket (54) in turn comprises a first fixing portion (56) and an end portion (58) having shape of arched plate in cross-section to slidably engage the guide channel (50) rotatably connecting the elongated body (12) to the intermediate bracket (54) about a rotation axis (R1) parallel to the longitudinal direction (L1).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustable lighting device for furnishing which is adapted to be fixed to a support surface of a piece of furniture or to a support surface of an inner wall of a room.

[0002] Generally, an adjustable lighting device according to the present invention is used where there arises the need to change the orientation of a lighting unit of the device, such as preferably a LED lighting unit, with respect to the support surface to which the device is fixed, such as for example a base of a cabinet or of a group of cabinets.STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Adjustable lighting devices have long been known and applied in the furnishing industry.

[0004] Typically, adjustable lighting devices comprise an elongated body extending along a longitudinal direction. Within the elongated body there is inserted a lighting unit which extends longitudinally, such as for example a LED lighting unit or LED strip, so as to provide linear lighting at areas where the overall dimensions and / or design and / or aesthetic requirements so require. In particular, through suitable rotatable connection means, the elongated body or the lighting unit is also be made rotatable with respect to the support surface to which the lighting device is fixed.

[0005] For example, there are known adjustable lighting devices adapted to be fixed to a base, such as a lower surface, of a cabinet or a group of cabinets in a kitchen in order to obtain orientable lighting of the kitchen top. In this manner, depending on requirements, a user may vary the orientation of the LED lighting unit to achieve a desired illumination of the kitchen top.

[0006] Alternatively, there are known adjustable lighting devices adapted to be fixed to an inner surface of a piece of furniture so as to obtain adjustable lighting of a compartment of the piece of furniture. In this manner, depending on requirements, a user can vary the orientation of the LED lighting unit to achieve a desired lighting of a portion of the compartment.

[0007] Alternatively, there are known adjustable lighting devices adapted to be fixed to a surface of an interior wall of a room, such as a side wall or ceiling wall, in order to obtain an adjustable lighting. In this manner, depending on requirements, a user may vary the orientation of the LED lighting unit to achieve a desired lighting of a portion of the room or of the wall.

[0008] Although such prior art adjustable lighting devices for furnishing function appropriately in most cases, they reveal drawbacks.

[0009] As a matter of fact, the prior art adjustable lighting devices have a complex construction that limits the possibilities of varying their characteristics, such as their longitudinal extension, during design and construction.

[0010] In particular, adjustable lighting devices of the known type provide for a construction which at the design step cannot be easily adapted to the characteristics of the support surface to which it will be fixed, and / or to the characteristics of the piece of furniture and / or the wall to which it will be fixed, according to dimensional and / or design and / or aesthetic requirements.

[0011] For example, it is generally known that a kitchen should be designed and custom-built to suit the room in which it is mounted. As a result, in order to achieve linear lighting of the kitchen top, the lighting device must be designed so as to provide for a longitudinal extension substantially corresponding to the extension of the kitchen top to be lit and to the extension of the cabinet or group of cabinets under which it is fixed.

[0012] Therefore, there arises the need to provide an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, whose construction ensures at the design step a broad and simple selection of its characteristics, and in particular its longitudinal extension, according to dimensional and / or design and / or aesthetic requirements.

[0013] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting devices of the known type provide for a construction whose characteristics, such as for example its longitudinal extension, cannot be easily and widely varied during manufacturing / production.

[0014] For example, considering the example above where the lighting device is to be designed so as to provide for a longitudinal extension substantially corresponding to the extension of the group of cabinets under which it is fixed, the adjustable lighting devices of the known type provide for a design in which the longitudinal extension cannot be changed at the time of manufacturing, or may be varied within certain limits, or may be varied providing for some difficulties in manufacturing which, as a result, increase production costs.

[0015] Therefore, there arises the need to provide an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, whose construction ensures during the manufacturing step a broad and simple change of its characteristics, and in particular its longitudinal extension, according to dimensional and / or design and / or aesthetic requirements.

[0016] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting devices of the known type provide for a construction that complicates an installation step.

[0017] For example, still considering the example above in which the lighting device is to be designed so as to provide for a longitudinal extension substantially corresponding to the extension of the group of cabinets under which it is fixed, the adjustable lighting devices of the known type provide for a design in which, when the longitudinal extension is relatively high, the installation step is complicated, increase the installation costs as a result.

[0018] Therefore, there arises the need to provide an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, whose construction ensures a simple installation step.

[0019] As a result, there arises the need to provide an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, which overcomes at least one of the above-mentioned drawbacks.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The task of the present invention is to provide an improvement to an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, adapted to be fixed to a support surface of a piece of furniture or of an inner wall of a room. In particular, there arises the need to provide an adjustable lighting device having a construction which, at the design and manufacturing step, can be widely and easily adapted to the characteristics of the support surface and / or of the piece of furniture and / or of the wall to which it is fixed, according to dimensional and / or design and / or aesthetic requirements.

[0021] In the context of the task outlined above, an object of the present invention is to provide an adjustable lighting device that allows to widely and easily select a desired longitudinal extension at the design step.

[0022] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device that allows to widely and easily vary a desired longitudinal extension during the manufacturing step.

[0023] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device that ensures a simple installation step.

[0024] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device that ensures a safe and reliable fixing to the support surface.

[0025] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device which provides for a small number of components.

[0026] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device which provides for components having a simple construction.

[0027] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device which provides for a decrease in costs of material.

[0028] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device which provides for a decrease in production costs.

[0029] A further object is to provide an adjustable lighting device having a construction which can be obtained by using means and components that are readily available, and which can be obtained with conventional plants, machines and equipment.

[0030] These and other tasks, objects and advantages outlined above, as well as others which will be more apparent in the description below, are attained through an adjustable lighting device as defined in the independent claim. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0031] The further characteristics and advantages of the adjustable lighting device will become more apparent in the following description relating to an embodiment provided purely by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the figures below, wherein: Fig. 1 shows a first perspective view of the adjustable lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 shows a second perspective view of the adjustable lighting device Fig. 1, Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of the adjustable lighting device of Fig. 1, Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustable lighting device taken on a transversal plane passing along line B-B of Fig. 1, and in which the device is in a first lighting position adapted to direct the lighting along a first direction, Fig. 5 shows the cross-sectional view of the adjustable lighting device of Fig. 4 in which the device is in a second lighting position adapted to direct the lighting along a second direction, Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an intermediate bracket of support bracket means of the adjustable lighting device of Fig. 1, Fig. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of an elongated body of the adjustable lighting device of Fig. 1, Fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustable lighting device taken on a transversal plane passing along line C-C of Fig. 1, and wherein the device is the first lighting position, Fig. 9 shows the cross-sectional view of the adjustable lighting device of Fig. 8 wherein device is the second lighting position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] In the present description there may be used expressions such as "upper", "lower", "high", "low" or the like; the person skilled in the art will have no difficulty understanding that such terms refer to the adjustable lighting device as shown in the attached figures.

[0033] The present invention relates to an adjustable lighting device for the furnishing industry, adapted to be fixed to a support surface of a piece of furniture or of an inner wall of a room.

[0034] Preferably, said adjustable lighting device is an adjustable under-cabinet lighting device, which is adapted for being fixed underneath a base, or a lower surface, a cabinet or a group of cabinets, such as a piece of furniture, so as to illuminate an underlying region, such as a kitchen top, while also varying one of its lighting directions.

[0035] Figs 1 to 9 show a preferred embodiment of the adjustable lighting device 10, such as an adjustable under-cabinet lighting device 10, according to the present invention. This adjustable lighting device 10 is adapted to be fixed to a support surface S1 of a piece of furniture or of an inner wall of a room, such as for example a lower support surface S1 of a cabinet or a group of cabinets which are arranged above a kitchen top.

[0036] The adjustable lighting device 10 (hereinafter also referred to simply as "lighting device 10") preferably comprises an elongated body 12, a lighting unit 14 associated with the elongated body 12, and support bracket means 16.

[0037] The support bracket means 16 (better shown and numbered in Fig. 1 and 3) may preferably comprise various types of brackets such as intermediate brackets and end brackets, as better explained below. Said support bracket means 16 are configured to rotatably connect the elongated body 12 to the support surface S1. The rotation of the elongated body 12 with respect to the support surface S1 is carried out about a rotation axis R1 which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction L1 along which the elongated body 12 extends. Furthermore, this rotation about the rotation axis R1 is carried out between a first lighting position, in which for example the lighting device 10 is adapted to emit light radiation along a first direction substantially orthogonal to the support surface S1 (see Figs. 4 and 8), and a second lighting position, in which for example the lighting device 10 is adapted to emit light radiation along a second direction which is inclined with respect to the first direction (see Figs. 5 and 9), for example inclined with respect to the first direction by 30, 45, 60 degrees or the like.

[0038] The elongated body 12 extends along a longitudinal direction L1, as mentioned above, between a first body end 18 and an opposite body end 20 which are connected to each other through an intermediate portion 22 of the elongated body 12.

[0039] Preferably, the elongated body 12 includes a profiled body 24 that is made of preferably metallic material, such as aluminium or steel, by means of suitable forming techniques, for example by extruding. In particular, the elongated body 12, or its profiled body 24, are preferably made of a single piece, provide for along the longitudinal direction L1 a dimension which can be widely selected depending on the needs, for example in a range comprised between 20 cm and 400 cm, more preferably in a range comprised between 20 cm and 150 cm or comprised between 100 cm and 400 cm, possibly preferably in a range comprised between 20 cm and 100 cm.

[0040] The lighting unit 14 is associated with the elongated body 12 so as to emit light radiation from a first side E1 of the elongated body 12.

[0041] In the present embodiment, the elongated body 12, or its profiled body 24, comprises a first profile portion 26 having a cross-sectional "U" shape which is substantially upside down. The first profile portion 26 comprises a base wall 28, preferably planar, from which there extend on opposite sides downwards, a first side wall 30 and a second side wall 32 with an angle of approximately 90° with respect to the base wall 28.

[0042] The first profile portion 26 further comprises a first front wall 34 and a second front wall 36, having a cross-sectional L-shape. The first front wall 34 and the second front wall 36 extend respectively from the ends of the first side wall 30 and the second side wall 34 toward the inside of the first profile portion 26 with an angle of approximately 90°, at least partially defining the first side E1 of the elongated body 12 so as to leave between them a separation space defining a longitudinal lighting slot 38 which, in turn, extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 and it is formed at the first side E1 of the elongated body.

[0043] In this condition, the elongated body 12, that is its profiled body 24 and the first profile portion 26, is shaped and configured by providing for a longitudinal housing cavity 40 substantially defined by the walls of the first profile portion 26. Said longitudinal housing cavity 40 is also preferably open at the first 18 and second 20 body ends of the elongated body 12, that is at the ends of the profiled body 24.

[0044] In particular, the lighting unit 14 is arranged in the longitudinal housing cavity 40 of the elongated body 12 so as to emit light radiation in the direction of the first side E1 through the lighting slot 38.

[0045] In the present embodiment, the elongated body 12 further comprises a transparent cover element 42, which is substantially shaped as a strip, that is made of material that is transparent, semi-transparent or translucent to the light radiation emitted by the lighting unit 14. Preferably, the transparent cover element 42 is made of polymeric material that is transparent to visible light radiation, such as for example polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate, glass or other suitable material. In particular, the transparent cover element 42 is shaped and configured in so as to engage the lighting slot 38 and be fixed to the elongated body 12, for example by means of coupling or other appropriate fixing means, on the first front wall 34 and on the second front wall 36, so as to close the lighting unit 14 in the longitudinal housing cavity 40 and allow the light radiation to pass through the material of which it is made.

[0046] The lighting unit 14 is configured so as to preferably provide for an elongated shape, also extending along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L1, so as to provide linear lighting.

[0047] In the present preferred embodiment, the lighting unit 14 is an LED type lighting unit (hereinafter also referred to as "LED lighting unit 14") which preferably comprises a support base 44, a plurality of light-emitting diodes 46 (better observable in Figs. 4, 5 and 7) and electrical connection means (not shown in the figures).

[0048] The base of support 44 is preferably a flat strip made of substantially rigid material or possibly flexible material, such as preferably polymer resin, and it comprises an electrical circuit (not shown in the figures) which is in turn made of an electrical conductive material, such as copper. In the present embodiment, the support base 44 is shaped and configured so as to be arranged inside the longitudinal housing 40 and be fixed to a part of the profiled body 24, such as for example a region of the base wall 28 of the first profile portion 26, by means of suitable fixing means, such as screws, glue, couplings or the like.

[0049] The light-emitting diodes 46 (possibly also referred to as "LED 46") are arranged substantially at one of the two faces of the support base 44 which is operatively arranged facing the longitudinal lighting slot 38. The light-emitting diodes 46 are electrically connected to the electrical circuit of the support base 44, operatively acting as a source of light radiation when energized with an electrical current supplied through the electrical connection means. Preferably, light-emitting diodes 46 are configured to be energised by an electric current obtained with a voltage ranging from 12 to 24 volts in direct current.

[0050] The electrical connection means (not shown in the figures) are preferably configured to electrically connect the electrical circuit of the support base 44 to a power supply cable (not shown in the figures) which is adapted to conduct electrical energy supplied by an appropriate power source (not shown in the figures), such as for example a power grid, possibly through a transformer device adapted to supply a voltage ranging from 12 to 24 volts in direct current. Alternatively, electricity may be supplied to the power supply cable by a battery or battery pack, or from further types of electrical power sources, for example configured to supply voltage ranging from 12 to 24 volts in direct current.

[0051] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the support base 44 of the LED lighting unit 14 is configured so that it can be cut or divided at predetermined longitudinal positions 48 (only visible in Fig. 3) so as to adjust, by removing one or more portions, its longitudinal extension depending on the size of the elongated body 12 along the longitudinal direction L1.

[0052] As previously mentioned, the support bracket means 16 are configured to rotatably connect the elongated body 12 to the support surface S1.

[0053] In particular, said elongated body 12 further comprises a guide channel 50 which substantially extends parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 (the guide channel is better visible in Figs. 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9)

[0054] The guide channel 50 is preferably formed at the full longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12, that is at the totality of the profiled body 24, preferably on a second side (not numbered in the figures) which is substantially opposite with respect to the first side E1. The guide channel 50 is configured and shaped so as to at least partially have a substantially arc-shaped cross-section, that is cross-section taken on a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L1. Furthermore, the guide channel 50 is configured and shaped so as to be open outwards with respect to the elongated body 12 through a longitudinal engagement slot 52.

[0055] Said longitudinal engagement slot 52 is formed at the intermediate portion 22 substantially extending parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 preferably on the second side (not numbered in the figures) which is substantially opposite with respect to the first side E1. The longitudinal engagement slot 52 is preferably formed at the totality of the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12, that is at the full extent of the longitudinal extension of the profiled body 24.

[0056] Furthermore, said support bracket means 16 include at least one intermediate bracket 54. Said at least one intermediate bracket 54 in turn comprises a first fixing portion 56 and an end portion 58 which are connected to each other, and preferably made in single piece. Said at least one intermediate bracket 54 may be made of a metal material such as aluminium or steel, or a plastic material such as thermoplastic resin, by means of suitable forming techniques for example by moulding.

[0057] The first fixing portion 56 is adapted to be fixed to the support surface S1, such as a lower support surface S1 of a cabinet or a group of cabinets of a kitchen. The fixing of the first portion 56 to the support surface S1 may be obtained by means of suitable fixing means, such as for example screws, glue or the like. For example, the first fixing portion 56 may be provided with a through hole adapted to receive a screw for fastening to the to the support surface S1.

[0058] While, the end portion 58 is shaped and configured so as to have a cross-section, that is a cross-section taken on a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L1, an arched plate shape, preferably substantially complementary to the shape of the guide channel 50 or a portion thereof. The end portion 58 is preferably shaped and configured so as to have a cross-section shaped to form a circumference arc arched plate.

[0059] Furthermore, the end portion 58 is shaped and configured to slidably engage the guide channel 50 through the longitudinal engagement slot 52. In particular, the end portion 58 of said at least one intermediate bracket 54 is configured and shaped to be slidably reversibly inserted into the guide channel 50 at a depth that is adjustable along the arched direction of the latter, so that the elongated body 12 is connected to said at least one intermediate bracket 54, allowing it to mutually rotate about the rotation axis R1, substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L1, between the first and second lighting positions. Furthermore, the end portion 58 of said at least one intermediate bracket 54 is preferably configured and shaped so that it can slide in the guide channel 50 parallel to the longitudinal direction L1.

[0060] Advantageously, in this condition, the lighting device 10 provides for a construction which, at the design and manufacturing step, can be widely adapted to the characteristics of the support surface S1 of the piece of furniture and / or the wall to which it is fixed.

[0061] In particular, at the design step there can be widely and easily selected a desired longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12, that is an extension thereof along the longitudinal direction L1.

[0062] Furthermore, during the manufacturing step, there can be easily formed an elongated body 12 having a desired longitudinal extension can be simply formed, for example by cutting starting from an elongated body 12 or from a profiled body 24 having a greater longitudinal extension with respect to the desired one. In particular, there can be formed in advance by extruding a plurality of elongated elements 12 or section bodies 24 which are kept in a store and subsequently cut depending on the needs to obtain a desired longitudinal extension thereof, therefore simplifying a step for providing the adjustable lighting device 10.

[0063] Furthermore, during installation, the elongated body 12 can be easily fixed to the support surface S1 by means of one or more intermediate brackets 54 of the support bracket means 16. In particular, the number of said intermediate brackets 54, preferably identical to each other, and their positions along the longitudinal direction L1 can be widely and easily selected according to the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12.

[0064] Furthermore, during installation, there can be guaranteed a safe and reliable fixing of the elongated body 12 to the support surface S1 by means of one or more intermediate brackets 54 of the support bracket means 16. In particular, the number of said one or more intermediate brackets 54, which are substantially identical to each other, and their positions along the longitudinal direction L1 may be suitably selected according to the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12 to obtain a secure and reliable fixing.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the elongated body 12, that is the profiled body 24 or the first profile portion 26, comprises a first channel wall 60 and a second channel wall 62. The first 60 and second 62 channel walls, are formed preferably extending from the base wall 28 of the first profile portion 26 substantially on the second side, opposite to the first side E1. Furthermore, the first channel wall 60 and the second channel wall 62 are formed and arranged so as to be spaced apart and in an overlapping relationship with each other along a direction orthogonal to said rotation axis R1, that is they are radially overlapped and spaced apart from each other. In particular, the first channel wall 60 comprises a respective first channel surface 64 at least partially shaped to form an arched cross-section, and the second channel wall 62 comprises a respective second channel surface 66 at least partially shaped to form an arched cross-section. The first channel surface 64 at least partially provides for a cross-section convex shape, and the second channel surface 66 at least partially provides for a cross-section concave. The first 64 and second 66 channel surfaces, are arranged radially facing and spaced apart from each other so as to at least partly define said guide channel 50. In the present description, components may be considered radially superimposed or facing each other when they are arranged so that a radial line, which is arranged orthogonally from the rotation axis R1, extends through each of the radially superimposed components. The first channel wall 60 and the second channel wall 62 are configured and arranged so that the first channel wall 60 is radially interposed between the second channel wall 62 and the rotation axis R1.

[0066] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a simple construction.

[0067] As a matter of fact, there can be easily designed and built, for example by extruding, the first 60 and second 62 channel walls, provided with respective first 64 and second 66 channel surfaces, defining the guide channel 50. In particular, during the manufacturing step there can be easily formed an elongated body 12 provided with said first 60 and second 62 channel walls and subsequently cut it in an equally simple manner to obtain a desired longitudinal extension thereof, as mentioned above.

[0068] Furthermore, the construction and shape of the first 60 and second 62 channel walls, defining the guide channel 50, is easy to vary at design step, for example to vary the position of the rotation axis R1 with respect to the lighting unit 14 and / or the radius-of-curvature of the rotation, depending on the needs.

[0069] In the present particularly preferred embodiment, the elongated body 12, that is its profiled body 24, comprises the guide channel 50, which, at least partly, is substantially complementary to the that of the end section 58 in which the latter, as mentioned above, is shaped and configured so as to have a cross-section in the shape of an arched plate.

[0070] In particular, the guide channel 50 is preferably configured and shaped so that the first 64 and second 66 channel surfaces, are adapted to cooperate with the end portion 58 of the intermediate bracket 54 by means of friction contact so as to operatively maintain a selected degree of rotation of the elongated body rotation 12 with respect to the intermediate bracket 54 between the first and second lighting positions.

[0071] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction that is simple to design and manufacture.

[0072] In particular, there can be easily designed and manufactured the guide channel 50, that is, its channel surfaces, and the end portion 58 so as to obtain a relative rotation of the elongated body 12 with respect to the intermediate bracket 54, while maintaining a selected degree of rotation between the first and second lighting positions in operating conditions.

[0073] In the present preferred embodiment, the support bracket means 16 comprise a plurality of intermediate brackets 54 that are formed separately, and each of which comprise a respective first fixing portion 56 and a respective end portion 58. As previously mentioned, the first fixing portion 56 is adapted to be connected to said support surface S1, and the end part 58 is shaped to form cross-section arched plate and it is configured to slidably engage the guide channel 50 so that said elongated body 12 can be rotated about the rotation axis R1 with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket 54.

[0074] Advantageously, in this condition, the lighting device 10 provides for a construction that is particularly simple to design and manufacture.

[0075] In particular, there can be easily designed and manufactured a plurality of intermediate brackets 54, wherein the number and positions thereof along the longitudinal direction L1 can be widely and easily selected according to the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12. In particular, there can be formed in advance a plurality of intermediate brackets 54 which are kept in a store and, subsequently, associated with the elongated body 12 in a given number according to the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12, therefore simplifying a manufacturing step of the adjustable lighting device 10.

[0076] Furthermore, during installation, there can be guaranteed a safe and reliable fixing of the elongated body 12 to the support surface S1 by means of various intermediate brackets 54 of the support bracket means 16. In particular, similarly to the above, the number of said one or more intermediate brackets 54 and the positions thereof along the longitudinal direction L1 may be suitably selected according to the longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12 to obtain a secure and reliable fixing. Preferably being adapted to slide in the guide channel 50 parallel to the longitudinal direction L1, the intermediate brackets 54 may also be variously arranged at different longitudinal distances depending on the needs, so as to obtain a safe and reliable fixing.

[0077] Furthermore, in this condition, the lighting device 10 provides for reducing the costs related to the amount of material to be used. In particular, the number of said one or more intermediate brackets 54 and their positions along the longitudinal direction L1 may be suitably selected to ensure a safe and reliable fixing and, at the same time, to ensure the use of a decreased amount of material required to form said intermediate brackets 54.

[0078] Preferably, said at least one intermediate bracket 54 has a maximum dimension along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 which is less than or equal to about 10 cm, or more preferably less than or equal to about 5 cm, even more preferably less than or equal to about 2.5 cm, or less than or equal to about 1 cm.

[0079] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 further ensures reducing the costs of material, that is the costs relating to the amount of material to be used. In particular, the number of said one or more intermediate brackets 54 and their positions along the longitudinal direction L1 may be suitably selected to ensure a safe and reliable fixing and, at the same time, to ensure the use of a decreased number and therefore a decreased amount of material required to form said intermediate brackets 54.

[0080] As previously mentioned, said at least one intermediate bracket 54 comprises a first fixing portion 56 adapted to be connected to said support surface S1, and a respective end portion 58 shaped to form a cross-section arched plate. In particular, in the present embodiment, the first fixing portion 56 in turn preferably comprises a fixing plate 68 and a connection portion 70 (better shown and numbered in Fig. 6).

[0081] The fixing plate 68, preferably planar-shaped, is configured to operatively abut against, or to be coupled to, the support surface S1 and to be fixed to the latter using fixing means such as screws, glue or the like. The connection portion 70, preferably shaped to form an L, is interposed between and directly connected to the fixing plate 68 and to the end portion 58.

[0082] In particular, the connection portion 70 and the end portion 58 are configured so as to be arranged on the same side with respect to a fixing plane A1 on which the fixing plate 68 lies (the fixing plane A1 is better shown and numbered in Fig. 6).

[0083] Advantageously, in this condition, the lighting device 10 is particularly adapted to be used as an under-cabinet lighting device 10 given that said at least one intermediate bracket 54 provides for a structure adapted to be fixed beneath a support surface S1 that is arranged horizontally, such as the base of a cabinet, and at the same time is adapted to remain substantially hidden from view under operating conditions. Therefore, the desired aesthetic characteristics of the ceiling and / or the surroundings of the support surface S1 to which the orientable lighting device is attached are not altered or altered to a minimum. 10

[0084] Furthermore, preferably, the connection portion 70 in turn comprises a connection plate 72 and a stop plate 74 (better shown and numbered in Fig. 6). The connection plate 72 extends substantially at 90 degrees from an end of the fixing plate 68. While, the stop plate 74 extends substantially at 90 degrees from an end of the connection plate 72 which is opposite to the end at which the latter is connected to the fixing plate 68. Furthermore, the stop plate 74 is directly connected to the end portion 58 and it is operatively adapted to act as an end-stop abutment for the rotation in the first and second lighting positions of the elongated body 12 with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket 54.

[0085] In particular, with reference to Figs. 4 to 7, the stop plate 74 is preferably shaped and arranged so that, in operating conditions, the first profile portion 26, that is its base wall 28, is adapted to abut against said stop plate 74 when the elongated body 12 is rotated with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket 54 by an angle adapted to obtain the first lighting position (see Fig. 4). While, the stop plate 74 is preferably shaped and arranged so that, in operating conditions, the second channel wall 62 is adapted to abut against said stop plate 74 when the elongated body 12 is rotated with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket 54 by an angle adapted to obtain the second lighting position (see Fig. 5).

[0086] Preferably, the stop plate 74 provides for a planar shape and it is arranged so that it is substantially parallel to the fixing plane A1.

[0087] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction that is simple to design and manufacture.

[0088] In particular, there can be easily designed and built one or more intermediate brackets 54 having a simple shape which is adapted to act as a fixing bracket and, at the same time, as an end-stop component for the rotation of the elongated body 12.

[0089] In the present most preferred embodiment, said support bracket means 16 further include at least one end bracket 76 which is formed separately from said at least one intermediate bracket 54 and which is associated with a respective first 18 and second 20 body end of the elongated body 12. Preferably, said support bracket means 16 include two end brackets 76 each associated with a respective first 18 and second 20 body end of the elongated body.

[0090] Said at least one end bracket 76 in turn comprises a second fixing portion 78, preferably configured as or comprising a fixing plate, and a rotatable support portion 80 which are connected to each other, and preferably made in single piece. Said at least one end bracket 76 may be made of metal material, such as aluminium or steel, or a plastic material, such as thermoplastic resin, by means of suitable forming techniques, for example by moulding.

[0091] The second fixing portion 78 is adapted to be fixed or connected to the support surface S1. The fixing of the second fixing portion 78 to the support surface S1 can be obtained by means of suitable fixing means, such as for example screws, glue or the like. For example, the second fixing portion 78 may be provided with a through hole adapted to receive a screw for fastening to the support surface S1.

[0092] While, the rotatable support portion 80 is shaped and configured so as to be associated with a respective of the first 18 and second 20 body end, and be engaged with the latter by means of rotatable engagement means 82 with which it is provided, so that the elongated body 12 is connected to said at least one end bracket 76 being able to mutually rotate about the rotation axis R1, substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L1, between the first and second lighting positions.

[0093] Advantageously, in this condition, the lighting device 10 provides for a construction which, at the design and manufacturing step, can be widely adapted to the characteristics of the support surface S1 of the piece of furniture and / or the wall to which it is fixed.

[0094] In particular, during the design step there can be widely and easily selected a desired longitudinal extension of the elongated body 12, that is an extension thereof along the longitudinal direction L1, and therefore associate a respective end bracket with one or both first 18 and second 20 body ends.

[0095] Furthermore, during installation, there can be ensured a safe and reliable fixing of the elongated body 12 to the support surface S1 by means of one or more end brackets 76 of the support bracket means 16.

[0096] Preferably, said at least one end bracket 76 has a maximum dimension along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L1 which is less than or equal to about 10 cm, more preferably less than or equal to 5 cm, even more preferably less than or equal to 2.5 cm, or less than or equal to 1 cm.

[0097] In the present preferred embodiment, the rotatable support portion 80 is shaped and configured as a plate, substantially planar, which is adapted to receive at the head a respective of the first 18 and second 20 body ends of the elongated body 12. Furthermore, said rotatable engagement means 82 preferably comprise a rotatable connection portion 84 which extends substantially orthogonally from the rotatable support portion 80. The rotatable connection portion 84 is shaped and configured so as to have a cross-section, that is a cross-section taken on a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L1, an arched plate shape, preferably substantially complementary to the shape of the guide channel 50 or a portion thereof. The rotatable connection portion 84 is preferably shaped and configured so as to have a cross-section shaped to form a circumference arc arched plate.

[0098] Furthermore, the rotatable connection portion 84 is also shaped and configured to engage the guide channel 50. In particular, the rotatable connection portion 84 of said at least one end bracket 76 is configured and shaped to be rotatably coupled with the guide channel 50 so that the elongated body 12 is connected to said at least one end bracket 76 allowing it to mutually rotate about a rotation axis R1, substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L1, between the first and second lighting positions.

[0099] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction that is simple to design and manufacture.

[0100] In particular, the end brackets 76 may be easily designed and built having a simple shape which is adapted to act as a fixing bracket and, at the same time, as a component adapted to guide the rotation of the elongated body 12 by coupling with the guide channel 50.

[0101] Preferably, the elongated body 12 includes the profiled body 24, as previously mentioned, and at least one closing element 86 (the latter better shown in Figs 3, 8 and 9). Preferably, the elongated body 12 includes two closing elements 86 formed separately from the profiled body 24 and each associated with a respective first 18 and second 20 body end. Said at least one closing element 86 may be made of metal material, such as aluminium or steel, or plastic material, such as thermoplastic resin, by means of suitable forming techniques, for example by moulding.

[0102] Said at least one closing element 86 is configured to close the LED lighting unit 14 in the longitudinal housing cavity 40 of the elongated body 12. In particular, at least one closing element 86 is configured to engage a respective longitudinal end of the profiled body 24, substantially closing it, at a respective first 18 and second 20 body end of the elongated profiled body 12.

[0103] Possibly, said at least one closing element 86 further comprises a sealing element 88, for example made of elastomeric material, which is adapted for fluid-tight sealing the longitudinal housing cavity 40 with respect to the external of the elongated body 12.

[0104] Advantageously, in this condition there can be ensured a greater sealing of the longitudinal housing cavity 40 to fluids, in particular liquids such as water or liquid vapours such as water vapour, so as to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of damage, short-circuiting or similar to the LED lighting unit 14 and the components thereof, thereby increasing the operational reliability and / or safety of the lighting device 10.

[0105] In the present preferred embodiment, said at least one closing element 86, further comprises a third channel wall 90 provided with a third channel surface 92.

[0106] In particular, at the first 18 and second 20 body ends, the second channel wall 62 of the elongated body 12 and the third channel wall 90 of the closing element 86 are formed and arranged so as to be spaced apart and in a superimposition relationship with each other along a direction orthogonal to said rotation axis R1, that is they are radially superimposed and spaced apart from each other. In particular, the third channel wall 90 comprises the respective third channel surface 92 at least partially shaped to form an arched cross-section, and the second channel wall 62 comprises the respective second channel surface 66 at least partially shaped to form an arched cross-section. The third channel surface 92 at least partially provides for a cross-section convex shape, and the second channel surface 66 at least partially provides for a cross-section concave shape. The third 92 and second 66 channel surfaces, are arranged radially faced and spaced apart from each other so as to at least partly define said guide channel 50.

[0107] Advantageously, in this condition, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a simple construction.

[0108] As a matter of fact, there can be easily designed and built the third 90 and second 62 channel walls, provided with the respective third 92 and second 66 channel surfaces, defining the guide channel 50.

[0109] Furthermore, the construction of the third 90 and second 62 channel walls, defining the guide channel can be easily varied during the design step, for example to vary the position of the rotation axis R1 with respect to the lighting unit 14 and / or the radius of curvature of the rotation, depending on the needs.

[0110] In the light of the above, it is clear that significant objectives have been achieved, overcoming the drawbacks of the state of the art, allowing to obtain an improvement to an adjustable lighting device 10 for the furnishing industry, adapted to be fixed to a support surface S1 of a piece of furniture or an inner wall of a room.

[0111] As a matter of fact, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction which, during the design and manufacturing step, can be widely adapted to the characteristics of the support surface S1 to which it is fixed and / or of the piece of furniture and / or of the wall to which it is fixed, according to the dimensional and / or design and / or aesthetic needs.

[0112] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction that allows to widely and easily select a desired longitudinal extension during the design step.

[0113] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction that allows to widely and easily vary a desired longitudinal extension during the construction step.

[0114] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction which ensures a simple installation step.

[0115] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a construction which ensures a safe and reliable fixing to the support surface S1.

[0116] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a small number of components.

[0117] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for components that are simple to manufacture.

[0118] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides for a decrease in the costs of material.

[0119] Furthermore, the adjustable lighting device 10 provides decrease in the production costs.

[0120] Naturally, the materials and equipment used to implement the present invention, as well as the shape and size of the individual components, may be the most appropriate depending on the specific requirements.

Claims

1. Adjustable lighting device (10) adapted to be fixed to a support surface (S1) of a piece of furniture or of an inner wall of a room, said lighting device (10) comprising: - an elongated body (12) extending along a longitudinal direction (L1) between a first body end (18) and an opposite second body end (20) connected to each other through an intermediate portion (22), - a lighting unit (14) associated with said elongated body (12), and - support bracket means (16) configured to rotatably connect said elongated body (12) to said support surface (S1), characterised in that said elongated body (12) comprises a guide channel (50) having at least partially substantially an arched shape in cross-section, said guide channel (50) being open towards the outside of said elongated body (12) through a longitudinal engagement slot (52) formed at said intermediate portion (22), and said support bracket means (16) include at least one intermediate bracket (54) comprising: - a first fixing portion (56) adapted to be fixed or coupled to said support surface (S1), and - an end portion (58) having shape of arched plate in cross-section and configured to slidably engage said guide channel (50) through said longitudinal engagement slot (52) so as to connect said elongated body (12) to said at least one intermediate bracket (54) in a rotatable manner about a rotation axis (R1) substantially parallel to said longitudinal direction (L1).

2. The lighting device (10) according to claim 1, wherein said elongated body (12) comprises a first channel wall (60) and a second channel wall (62) in an overlapping relationship with each other along a direction orthogonal to said rotation axis (R1), said first channel wall (60) and said second channel wall (62) providing for respective first channel surface (64) and second channel surface (66) having at least partially an arched shape in cross-section and radially facing each other so as to at least partially define said guide channel (50).

3. The lighting device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said support bracket means (16) comprise a plurality of intermediate brackets (54) formed distinct from each other and configured to engage said guide channel (50).

4. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said end portion (58) and channel surfaces (64, 66) defining said guide channel (50) are adapted to cooperate with each other by frictional contact so as to operatively maintain a selected rotation degree of said elongated body (12) with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket (54).

5. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one intermediate bracket (54) provides for a maximum dimension along a direction parallel to said longitudinal direction (L1) which is less than or equal to about 10 cm, or less than or equal to about 5 cm, or less than or equal to about 2.5 cm, or less than or equal to about 1 cm.

6. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one intermediate bracket (54) comprises: - a fixing plate (68) configured to substantially abut against said support surface (S1), and - a connecting portion (70) interposed between and directly connecting said fixing plate (68) and said end portion (58), said connecting portion (70) and said end portion (58) being configured so as to be arranged on the same side with respect to a fixing plane (A1) wherein said fixing plate (68) lies.

7. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said connecting portion (70) comprises a stop plate (74) directly connected to said end portion (58) and adapted to operatively act as an end-of-stroke stop for the rotation of said elongated body (12) with respect to said at least one intermediate bracket (54).

8. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said support bracket means (16) further includes at least one end bracket (76) formed distinct from said at least one intermediate bracket (54) and associated with a respective of said body ends (18, 20) of said elongated body (12), said at least one end bracket (76) comprising: - a second fixing portion (78) adapted to be fixed or coupled to said support surface (S1), and - a rotatable support portion (80) provided with rotatable engagement means (82) configured to engage at least a portion of said body ends (18, 20) of said elongated body (12) so as to connect the latter to said at least one end bracket (76) in a rotatable manner about said rotation axis (R1).

9. The lighting device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein said rotatable support portion (80) is configured to receive the butt end of said body ends (18, 20) of said elongated body (12), and said rotatable engagement means (82) comprise a rotatable connection portion (84) extending orthogonally from said rotatable support portion (80), said rotatable connection portion (84) having shape of arched plate in cross-section and configured to rotatably engage said guide channel (50) so as to connect said elongated body (12) to said at least one end bracket (76) in a rotatable manner about said rotation axis (R1).

10. The lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said lighting device is an adjustable under-cabinet lighting device adapted to be fixed to a lower support surface (S1) of a cabinet or of a group of cabinets.

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