Self-supporting, shape-memory core structure

Abstract

The present description relates to a self-supporting cable core structure (1) comprising deformable materials cooperating with each other so as to confer shape memory properties to the structure. Typically, the structure may comprise a metal layer (2) surrounded by two layers of crosslinked polyethylene (3) respectively inside (3) and outside (3) of the metal layer (2). The cooperation between the metal layer and the polyethylene layers then gives the structure its self-supporting character, with shape memory when a user twists the structure simply with his hands. Abstract figure: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Self-supporting core structure with shape memory Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a self-supporting, shape-memory core structure.

[0002] Such a self-supporting structure is adaptable according to the needs of a user, and can find decorative applications in particular as a support for floor lamps, or wall lights. Thanks to its shape memory properties, it can also find more diverse applications, for example as a cable passage, or as piping. Prior art

[0003] As an example of a possible application, the luminaire bases are generally elongated structures, and conventionally use a rigid frame maintaining their shape, and a support base, weighting the lower part of the luminaire base and giving it sufficient stability.

[0004] In the case of flexible and deformable light fixture bases, the use of gooseneck lamps is particularly known. These lamps have a flexible and adjustable stem, conventionally made of a spring with metal inserts between each loop of the spring giving it shape memory properties, and allowing a user to direct the lighting at will, and without moving the lamp. However, gooseneck lamps are small formats of a few tens of centimeters, the stem being unable to maintain a set position for excessively high weights and dimensions. They also require a support that is large compared to the size of the stem to be stable on a surface.

[0005] Other types of flexible rods are also known, for example corrugated plastic tubes, and / or covered with shape memory fabric, but these devices are not entirely satisfactory either, because they are too flexible to use larger rods, a few meters long.

[0006] Furthermore, in the whole of the known state of the art, flexible rod devices are not self-supporting; they require the joint use of a rigid frame, or as in the case of gooseneck lamps, a base or a support to ensure their stability. These supports are generally oversized, heavy, making the whole unsightly, and with a significant footprint and not modular, whatever the shape imposed on the device. Summary

[0007] The present disclosure improves the situation.

[0008] A cable core structure (bearing the reference "1" in [Fig. 3] discussed in more detail below) is proposed, self-supporting and comprising deformable materials cooperating with each other so as to confer shape memory properties to the structure. In particular, these materials comprise a metal layer (reference 2 in [Fig. 3]), surrounded by two layers of crosslinked polyethylene (reference 3 in [Fig. 3]) respectively inside and outside the metal layer (2).

[0009] It will then be understood that the cooperation between the metal layer and the crosslinked polyethylene layers makes it possible to give the structure a self-supporting character, with a shape memory when a user applies a chosen torsion to the structure.

[0010] It is then possible to give a desired shape to the self-supporting structure, in order to adapt it as an interior decoration lamppost for example. In other applications where the cable core must be bent for example to adapt to an angle configuration between walls of a building, a user simply has to apply the desired shape to it (without requiring a twisting tool) to facilitate the installation of the cable.

[0011] In one embodiment, the metal layer (2) is a layer of aluminum, arranged between the two layers of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

[0012] The choice of aluminum metal for the central layer (2) gives the structure the advantage of being light while being semi-rigid.

[0013] Thus, in such an embodiment, in particular when the metal layer is an aluminum layer, the structure can be self-supporting over a distance upwards for example (from a support of a lower part of the structure) which can typically be up to 1 to 3 m, for usual cable core diameters (typically a few centimeters).

[0014] Indeed, the structure can be in the form of an elongated line and have a diameter of between 15 and 35 mm for a length of between 1 and 3 m of a free self-supporting part of the structure when it is arranged, in use, on a support (such as a horizontal surface for example, like the ground, a table, or other).

[0015] In one embodiment, the structure further comprises a textile braid (reference 5 of [Fig.3]) surrounding the outer layer of crosslinked polyethylene (reference 3).

[0016] Advantageously, according to the tests carried out, such braiding around the core (or "overbraiding") allows the structure to gain in load-bearing capacity, and typically to go from a vertical structure of 1 meter capable of flexing, without overbraiding, to a vertical structure of 1.2 meters without flexing, with overbraiding (for the same dimensions of aluminum layer and polyethylene layers, of course).

[0017] For example, the textile braiding (5) can be made from a material based on of acrylic.

[0018] The textile braiding (5) may typically comprise between 10 and 20 strands (for example 15 strands).

[0019] In one embodiment, the structure may further comprise a lead core (4) arranged inside the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3), in at least one part of the structure (1).

[0020] For example, the lead core (4) may be arranged in a lower part (11) of the self-supporting structure (1), said lower part (11) being intended, in service, to be rolled up to rest on a support (for example the ground, or a table, or other, while a complementary part of the structure is intended to spring upwards for example).

[0021] The lead core (4) may have an outer diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3), to slidably mount the lead core (4) inside the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3).

[0022] With such a structure comprising the lead core, a user can always twist the lower part of the structure (using his hands and without tools) and give this lower part (reference 11 of [Fig.1a]) a seat shape for a complementary, upper part of the structure (reference 10 of [Fig.1a]), which is then self-supporting (as illustrated in [Fig.1a] and [Fig.1b] for example).

[0023] For example, a difference in diameters between the inner diameter of the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3) and the outer diameter of the lead core (4) may be in a range between 2 and 10 mm (for example 5 mm).

[0024] In one embodiment, the structure may further comprise an adhesive layer (reference 6 of [Fig. 3]) between the metal layer (2) and each layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

[0025] For example, these adhesive layers (6) can be made of polyurethane.

[0026] These adhesive layers can also contribute to the self-supporting nature of the structure in order to stiffen the collaboration between the metal layer and the crosslinked polyethylene layers.

[0027] In one embodiment, the structure further comprises a metal ring (reference 12 of [Fig.3]), at least at one end of the structure (1), the metal ring (12) being threaded for fixing.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment where the structure is intended for a lighting application, the metal ring (12) can then be threaded for fixing a socket suitable for receiving a bulb base (reference L in the drawings commented on in detail below).

[0029] The structure within the meaning of the present description then finds an application advantageous in particular for any decorative object, such as a light fixture or other. Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig.

[0031] [Fig.1a] shows an embodiment of a self-supporting core structure for a luminaire placed on a floor. Fig. 1b

[0032] [Fig.lb] shows a faithful representation of the core structure according to [Fig.la], taken from a low angle. The core structure is placed on the ground and extends in a spiral. Fig. 2a

[0033] [Fig.2a] shows a second embodiment of the self-supporting core structure for a wall light. The core structure here comprises the self-supporting part, fixed to the wall. Fig. 2b

[0034] [Fig.2b] shows a faithful representation of the core structure according to [Fig.2a], taken from a low angle. The core structure is in the rest position, laid in a spiral on a horizontal surface. Fig. 3

[0035] [Fig.3] represents an exploded view of the self-supporting core structure according to [Fig.1a], comprising several layers of materials, nested within each other, and conferring the shape memory and self-supporting properties to the structure. Fig. 4

[0036] [Fig.4] shows several examples of applications A, B, C and D of the core structure. Description of the embodiments

[0037] In figures 1a and 1b, the core structure 1 is used as a luminaire base, resting on the ground S. For this purpose, it comprises the lower part 11, extended and surmounted by the self-supporting part 10 equipped with the metal ring 12 on which a bulb is installed. An electrical power supply 13 passes through the core structure 1 and provides an electric current to the bulb L.

[0038] The self-supporting part 10 of the core structure 1 can be deformed at will, and it is thus possible to give it any rounded shape, without folds (at more than 90° curvature angle), for example with loops, knots, or to make it completely straight (not shown). In the example illustrated in [Fig. 1a], the core structure 1 extends upwards (away from the ground S) with a generally elongated and spiral shape with variable curvature angles. [Fig. 1b] shows the low-angle view of the spiral-shaped core structure 1.

[0039] For the stability of the luminaire, the lower part 11 comprises the removable lead core 4, which stiffens the core structure 1, serving as a counterweight and invisible base (materialized by the hatched section in [Fig. 1a]). The lower part 11 is installed on the ground S and wound in a spiral in the examples of figures 1a and 1b.

[0040] As for the self-supporting part 10, the lower part 11 can be installed and deformed according to the needs and desires of the user, and so as to stabilize the core structure 1. It can for example be formed with variable angles of curvature, as in the example of [Fig.1a] (hatched section) or form knots, loops, or elongated, so as to run along walls, furniture, slip into gaps, or perpendicular to the self-supporting structure, etc. (not shown).

[0041] Furthermore, although in the preferred embodiment of the invention the lower portion 11 of the core structure 1 is specifically configured to camouflage the lead core 4 and to be elongated and uniform, it is entirely possible to design the structure with a holding base and / or a rigid frame at the lower end of the core structure 1. In such a case, the lead core 4 is not necessary.

[0042] The power supply 13 of the bulb L is shown in [Fig. 1a] with a power cord to be connected to the wall electrical installation and in [Fig. 1b], the cord comprises a foot switch. Alternatively, the power supply 13 can be provided without connection to the electrical installation, for example with a battery or batteries, camouflaged in a part of the core structure 1, and the switch can be placed for example on an external part of the core structure 1. The core structure 1 can also be without a switch.

[0043] In another embodiment illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b, the core structure 1 is fixed to a wall S. In such a configuration, the removable lead core 4 is removed from the lower part 11, and only the self-supporting part 10 of the structure is used. The latter projects from a small wall base, which is screwed, glued or held against the wall by any suitable means, for example with screws and dowels.

[0044] In the example of [Fig.2a], the core structure 1 is placed in a position with variable curvatures from end to end and perpendicular to the wall S. It can also be positioned for example parallel to the wall, along the wall, and with any shape, spiral, elongated, with variable angles, nodes, loops, etc. Alternatively, the luminaire can be a ceiling light (not shown), where the wall base is fixed to the ceiling, or installed and fixed on any surface S, inclined or not.

[0045] Furthermore, the wall base of Figures 2a and 2b is shown with a circular shape and with a reduced diameter. It can of course be designed in other shapes and dimensions, depending on the desired visual appearance. The wall base conceals the inlet for the power supply 13, which passes through the core structure 1 and is connected to the electrical installation in the wall (not shown). A switch for operating the bulb L can also be installed on the wall base. It is also possible to replace the wall base with any other fixing system, for example integrated inside the end of the tubular core structure 1 and to be fixed against the wall.

[0046] In the embodiments for luminaires shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2a and 2b, the general shape of the device is inspired by the elongated shapes of floral stems, and therefore proposes for this purpose a structure of elongated core and of the same diameter from end to end. Alternatively, the self-supporting part 10 and / or the lower part 11 can be designed with a wider diameter, or in a gradient, or with a section of a different shape, for example square, depending on the desired visual appearance.

[0047] The layers of materials forming the core structure 1 are shown in the exploded view of [Fig.3], with: - the metallic layer 2, - the two layers of cross-linked polyethylene 3 (PER), inner and outer, surrounding the metal layer 2, - the removable lead core 4 mounted inside the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene 3, - the acrylic textile braid 5 surrounding the outer layer of crosslinked polyethylene 3, - the adhesive layers 6 fixing the inner and outer layers of crosslinked polyethylene 3 to the metal layer 2, - and the metal ring 12, located at one end of the core structure 1.

[0048] The shape memory properties of the core structure 1 are ensured by the metal layer 2, for example made of aluminum, surrounded by the two layers of crosslinked polyethylene 3, fixed together by the intermediate adhesive layers 6. The self-supporting property of the core structure 1 is ensured by the lead core 4, heavier than the layers of aluminum and crosslinked polyethylene 3, making it possible to ballast at least part of the core structure 1, and to stiffen the assembly to increase the lasting maintenance of the position imposed on the core structure 1. The inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene 3 is also smooth to facilitate the insertion and removal of the lead core 4 within the core structure 1.

[0049] In the following paragraphs, reference is made to [Fig.4], which represents several examples of uses and applications A, B, C and D of the self-supporting core structure 1.

[0050] Example A shows the core structure 1, tubular, is used as a chute flexible for storing and concealing electrical cables, with minimal bulk and / or in a decorative manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the core structure 1 forms an elbow and includes metal end caps at its ends. Such a shape memory trunking can be moved and installed along walls, furniture, in cavities, or in an aesthetic and decorative manner, integrating into the environment, and without requiring fixings.

[0051] Due to its tubular shape, the core structure 1 can also be used in plumbing, as shown in example B, where it is used as a pipe to convey water to a sink, fixed to the wall by a conventional system of clamps. In particular, thanks to the internal coating of the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene 3, the pipe is anti-scale, anti-corrosion, waterproof and compatible with sanitary water quality standards. The flexibility and shape memory properties of the core structure 1 further allow it to be used and integrated into any bathroom environment in an aesthetic manner, and as in the applications presented above, it can easily be installed to run along walls and to connect furniture / appliances to domestic water inlets and outlets.

[0052] Like the pipeline, any similar application involving a pipe or tube can be envisaged. For example, the core structure 1 can replace a pneumatic compressed air hose, or for air conditioning systems. Or, since the layers of crosslinked polyethylene 3 and aluminum 2 have heat-resistant capabilities limiting leaks during heat transfers, and the acrylic braiding 5 is non-flammable, a plurality of structures 1 can be used as a network of hydraulic tubes in the floor for underfloor heating (these examples are not shown).

[0053] Furthermore, in [Fig.4], two other examples of decorative applications of the core structure 1 are illustrated, with example C which presents a set of core structures 1 arranged in parallel forming a decorative partition wall, and example D, which illustrates a plurality of core structures arranged adjacent to constitute a frame for shape memory furniture, with here an example of an armchair. Other decorative uses of the core structure 1 not shown can be cited, where the core structure 1 can be used for example as a deformable curtain rod, as a flexible and adaptable support for a microphone, as a stairwell guardrail, etc.

[0054] Ultimately, for all the embodiments presented or envisaged, the core structure 1 can be dimensioned with variable lengths, ranging from several centimeters to several meters, adapted to the desired use and appearance. It can also be connected to a plurality of other core structures 1 to form a complex and original architecture. It is then possible to design any decorative form from the connected core structures 1, of any size. For example, for a decorative application of lighting fixtures, several small-format structures 1 can be connected to form a base, for example a tripod or equivalent. Similarly, several structures 1 can also be connected to create a set of self-supporting rods, on which bulbs and / or lampshades are installed, creating a light bouquet that can be oriented at will. Finally, the plurality of connected structures 1 can be multi-purpose, with for example a core structure 1 used for cable passage, connected to a second core structure 1 used for a lighting fixture. List of reference signs

[0055] - 1: soul structure, - 10: self-supporting part, -11: lower part, - 12: metal ring, - 13: power supply, - 2: metallic layer, - 3: layer of cross-linked polyethylene, - 4: lead core, - 5: textile braiding, - 6: adhesive layer, - L: bulb, - S: support.

Claims

Claims

1. Self-supporting cable core structure (1) comprising deformable materials cooperating with each other so as to confer shape memory properties to the structure, in which said materials comprise a metal layer (2) surrounded by two layers of crosslinked polyethylene (3) respectively inside and outside the metal layer (2).

2. Structure (1) according to claim 1, wherein the metal layer is an aluminum layer (2) between the two layers of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

3. Structure (1) according to claim 2, comprising an elongated shape, with a diameter of between 15 and 35 mm for a length of between 1 and 3 m of a free self-supporting part (10) of the structure (1) when it is arranged, in service, on a support (S).

4. Structure (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a textile braid (5) surrounding the outer layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

5. Structure (1) according to claim 4, in which the textile braiding (5) is made of an acrylic-based material.

6. Structure (1) according to one of claims 4 and 5, in which the textile braiding (5) comprises between 10 and 20 strands.

7. Structure (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lead core (4) arranged inside the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3), in at least a part of the structure (1).

8. Structure (1) according to claim 7, wherein the lead core (4) is arranged in a lower part (11) of the self-supporting structure (1), said lower part (11) being intended, in service, to be rolled up to rest on a support (S).

9. Structure (1) according to one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the lead core (4) has an outer diameter which is less than an inner diameter of the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3), for slidingly mounting the lead core (4) inside the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

10. Structure (1) according to claim 9, wherein a difference in diameters between the inner diameter of the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3) and the outer diameter of the lead core (4) is in a range between 2 and 10 mm.

11. Structure (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an adhesive layer (6) between the metal layer (2) and each layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3).

12. Structure (1) according to claim 11, in which the adhesive layer (6) is made of polyurethane.

13. Structure (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a metal ring (12), at least at one end of the structure (1), the metal ring (12) being threaded for fixing.

14. Structure (1) according to claim 13, intended for a luminaire application and in which the metal ring (12) is threaded for fixing a socket suitable for receiving a bulb base (L).

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