LUMINAIRE

Abstract

A luminaire, comprising: an elongate housing (3) having a first elongate portion (3a) and a second elongate portion (3b), wherein at least a portion of the second elongate portion (3b) is optically transparent or translucent; at least one lighting device located within the elongate housing (3); and a mounting bracket (17) arranged to attach the elongate housing (3) to a mounting surface; wherein the first elongate portion (3a) of the housing includes a mounting rail (7) having a length (RL) that extends longitudinally for at least 70% of the length (CL) of the first elongate portion of the housing, the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage the mounting rail (7), and the position of the mounting bracket (17) is adjustable relative to the mounting rail. Abstract Figure: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: LIGHTING LIGHT Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a luminaire. In some embodiments, the invention relates to a type of luminaire that is sometimes referred to as an "anticorrosive" luminaire; "noncorrosive" luminaire; "corrosion-resistant" luminaire; or "steam-resistant" luminaire (hereinafter "anticorrosive luminaire").

[0002] Anti-corrosive luminaires are often used in warehouses, factories, workshops and parking lots where the anti-corrosive luminaire may be exposed to water, dust and shock. The luminaires are usually elongated. For example, historically anti-corrosive luminaires used fluorescent bulbs for illumination while, recently, the bulbs have been replaced by a solid-state lighting device, such as an LED lighting device, in order to improve the efficiency and longevity of the light source.

[0003] Typically, anti-corrosive luminaires are installed in one of three ways: 1. attached to a suspended cable; 2. surface mounted on a ceiling or beam; and 3. surface mounted on a BESA box. During installation, mounting brackets are attached to the ceiling, suspended cable, or BESA box, and the anti-corrosive luminaire is then attached to the brackets. The anti-corrosive luminaire includes an elongated housing, and the brackets engage the luminaire toward the ends of the housing. In some cases, the position of the bracket may be adjustable to a limited extent to provide limited adjustment. However, difficulties may arise when the ceiling is not entirely flat or there are obstructions adjacent to the area where the luminaire is to be installed, or when the distance between the BESA boxes is less than the distance between the mounting positions on the luminaire.If any of these problems arise, it may not be possible to install the luminaire at all, or it may be necessary to design a unique mounting solution for the situation, which can be time-consuming and expensive. As a result, it is desirable to have a luminaire that is arranged in such a way that it is easier to install, or at least provides the installer with greater installation flexibility so that it can be installed in a greater number of scenarios. Statement of the invention

[0004] Accordingly, the invention seeks to provide a luminaire which solves at least one of the problems mentioned above, or at least provides an alternative to known luminaires.

[0005] According to one aspect, there is provided a luminaire according to claim 1.

[0006] The mounting bracket can be positioned anywhere along the length of the mounting rail. Since the mounting rail extends at least 70% of the length of the first portion of the housing, the installer has a very high level of flexibility in positioning the luminaire during installation. The invention allows the installer to install the luminaire in situations where prior art devices cannot be installed, or where it would be very difficult to install prior art luminaires.

[0007] The luminaire has an elongated housing having a first elongated portion and a second elongated portion. At least a portion of the second elongated portion may be optically transparent or translucent. The second elongated portion may be removably attachable to the first elongated portion.

[0008] The luminaire includes at least one lighting device located within the elongated housing. The lighting device may be a solid-state lighting device, such as an LED lighting device. The LED lighting device may include at least one printed circuit board (PCB). The LED lighting device may include at least one LED. The LED lighting device may include at least one LED driver.

[0009] The luminaire includes a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is arranged to attach the elongated housing to a mounting surface.

[0010] The first elongated portion of the housing includes a mounting rail. The mounting rail has a length that extends longitudinally at least 70% of the length of the first elongated portion of the housing. Increasing the length of the mounting rail increases installation flexibility.In some embodiments, the mounting rail may extend longitudinally for at least 75% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing, the mounting rail extending longitudinally for at least 80% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing, the mounting rail extending longitudinally for at least 85% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing, the mounting rail extending longitudinally for at least 90% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing, the mounting rail extending longitudinally for at least 95% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing, or the mounting rail extending longitudinally for about 100% of the length of the first portion of the elongated housing.

[0011] The mounting bracket is arranged to engage the mounting rail. The position of the mounting bracket is adjustable relative to the mounting rail.

[0012] The mounting bracket may be arranged to slide along the mounting rail. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket may be arranged to slide along the entire length of the mounting rail.

[0013] The mounting bracket may be removably attachable to the mounting rail.

[0014] Typically, the mounting rail passes through a central position of the first elongated portion of the housing.

[0015] The mounting rail may be arranged relative to the first housing portion such that the center of the mounting rail in a longitudinal direction coincides with the center of the first housing portion in the longitudinal direction. The mounting rail has a length RL, and the mounting rail may extend outwardly from the center of the first housing portion in the longitudinal direction by a distance RL / 2 toward a first end of the first housing portion. The mounting rail may extend outwardly in the longitudinal direction from the center of the first housing portion by a distance RL / 2 toward a second end of the first housing portion.

[0016] The mounting rail has a first lateral side which is arranged longitudinally along the mounting rail.

[0017] The first lateral side of the mounting rail may include a first engagement structure. The mounting bracket includes a first portion that is arranged to engage the first engagement structure. The first engagement structure may include a first recess that extends longitudinally over at least a portion of the length of the first lateral side of the mounting rail. That is, at least a portion of the first portion of the mounting bracket may rest within the first recess. The first recess may extend over the entire length of the first lateral side of the mounting rail. The first recess may extend over a portion of the length of the first lateral side of the mounting rail. The first recess may extend over the entire length of the first engagement structure.

[0018] The first engagement structure includes a plurality of first ribs that are aligned in the longitudinal direction. Each first rib extends along a different portion of the first lateral side of the mounting rail. The first ribs in at least one pair of adjacent first ribs are separated in the longitudinal direction by a gap. In some embodiments, the first ribs in each pair of adjacent first ribs are separated by a gap. Typically, the gaps are the same size.

[0019] The first portion of the support is sized and shaped to form a bridge across the gap between the pair of adjacent first ribs.

[0020] The gap may have a gap length. The bracket may have a bracket length. The bracket length may be greater than the gap length. This feature helps ensure that the mounting bracket is able to span the gap between two ribs, and in some embodiments is able to slide over the gap between two ribs without becoming detached from the mounting rail. gap length is the distance, in the longitudinal direction of the mounting rail, between adjacent ends of the first ribs in the pair of first ribs. The support length is the dimension of the support in the longitudinal direction of the mounting rail. When considering gaps between adjacent pairs of first ribs, the support length refers to the length of the first part of the support.

[0021] The support length may be at least 1.5 times greater than the gap length, may be at least 1.8 times greater than the gap length, and may be at least 2 times greater than the gap length. The greater the support length in proportion to the gap length, the better the transition from one rib to another.

[0022] Each first rib may have an engaging surface that faces generally toward the second elongated portion of the housing. The first portion of the mounting bracket may be arranged to engage the engaging surface.

[0023] The first recess may be located below each first rib and at least a portion of the first portion of the mounting bracket may be arranged to fit within the first recess.

[0024] The first portion of the mounting bracket may be resilient. The mounting bracket may include a resilient material. The mounting bracket may include metal, for example, spring steel. The first portion of the mounting bracket may include an inwardly tapered wall. The inwardly tapered wall may be forced outwardly to disengage from the first engagement structure.

[0025] The first portion of the mounting bracket may include a finger gripping portion. The finger gripping portion may be arranged to allow a user to manually disengage the first portion of the mounting bracket from the first engagement structure. The first portion of the mounting bracket may include a first lip that engages the underside of the ribs, and the finger gripping portion may include a structure in the first lip that projects outwardly from the first lip, thereby exposing an underside of the first lip. By touching the finger gripping portion, the user is able to grasp the underside of the first lip, and thereby force the first portion of the mounting bracket out of engagement with the first rib.

[0026] The mounting rail may have a second lateral side that is disposed longitudinally along the mounting rail. The mounting bracket may include a second portion that is arranged to engage the second lateral side of the mounting rail.

[0027] The second lateral side of the mounting rail may include a second engagement structure. A second portion of the mounting bracket may be arranged to engage the second engagement structure. The second engagement structure may include a second recess that extends longitudinally over at least a portion of the length of the second lateral side of the mounting rail. That is, at least a portion of the second portion of the mounting bracket may rest within the second recess. The second recess may extend over the entire length of the second lateral side of the mounting rail. The second recess may extend over a second portion of the length of the second lateral side of the mounting rail. The second recess may extend over the length of the second engagement structure.

[0028] The second engagement structure may include a plurality of second ribs. The second ribs may be aligned in the longitudinal direction. Each second rib may extend along a different portion of the second lateral side of the mounting rail. The second ribs in at least one pair of adjacent second ribs may be separated in the longitudinal direction by a gap. In some embodiments, the second ribs in each pair of adjacent second ribs may be separated by a gap. Typically, the gaps are the same size.

[0029] The second portion of the support may be sized and shaped to form a bridge over the gap between the pair of adjacent second ribs.

[0030] The gap may have a gap length. The bracket may have a bracket length. The bracket length may be greater than the gap length. This feature helps ensure that the mounting bracket is able to straddle the gap between two ribs, and in some embodiments is able to slide over the gap between two ribs without becoming detached from the mounting rail. The gap length is the distance, in the longitudinal direction of the mounting rail, between adjacent ends of the second ribs in the pair of second ribs. The bracket length is the dimension of the bracket in the longitudinal direction of the mounting rail. When considering gaps between adjacent pairs of second ribs, the bracket length refers to the length of the second portion of the bracket.

[0031] The support length may be at least 1.5 times greater than the gap length, may be at least 1.8 times greater than the gap length, and may be at least 2 times greater than the gap length.

[0032] The or each second rib may have an engaging surface that faces generally toward the second elongated portion of the housing. second part of the mounting bracket may be arranged to engage the engaging surface.

[0033] The second recess may be located below the or each second rib. At least a portion of the second portion of the mounting bracket may be arranged to fit the second recess.

[0034] The mounting bracket may include a third portion that connects the first and second portions of the mounting bracket to each other. The third portion may lie transversely across the mounting rail in a state in which the mounting bracket engages the first and second engagement structures.

[0035] The length of the third portion of the mounting bracket may be greater than the space length between the ribs of the first pair of ribs and / or the ribs of the second pair of ribs. The length of the third portion of the mounting bracket may be similar to the first and / or second portion of the mounting bracket.

[0036] The third portion of the mounting bracket may include at least one mounting structure, such as an opening or a protrusion, which may be arranged to engage a mounting surface or a mounting device. For example, the engaging structure may be arranged to receive a screw-in member for securing the mounting bracket to a mounting surface or a mounting device. The third portion of the mounting bracket may include a plurality of mounting structures.

[0037] The third part of the mounting bracket may be elastic.

[0038] The second part of the mounting bracket may be elastic. The second part The mounting bracket may include a wall that tapers inward. The wall may be forced open to disengage from the second engaging structure.

[0039] The second portion of the mounting bracket may include a finger gripping portion. The finger gripping portion may be arranged to allow a user to manually disengage the second portion of the mounting bracket from the second engagement structure. The second portion of the mounting bracket may include a second lip that engages the underside of the ribs, and the finger gripping portion may include a structure in the second lip that projects outwardly from the second lip, thereby exposing an underside of the second lip. By touching the finger gripping portion, the user is able to grasp the underside of the second lip, and thereby force the second portion of the mounting bracket out of engagement with the second rib.

[0040] At least one first rib may include a set of ridges arranged transverse to the length of the first rib. The ridges provide the rib with strength and rigidity, and help ensure that the rib can be formed properly, for example during a manufacturing process, such as a molding process. The set of ridges may be located on an upper surface of each first rib.

[0041] At least one second rib may include a set of ridges arranged transverse to the length of the second rib. The ridges provide the rib with strength and rigidity, and help ensure that the rib can be formed properly, for example during a manufacturing process, such as a molding process. The set of ridges may be located on an upper surface of each second rib.

[0042] The luminaire may include at least one complementary mounting bracket. The or each complementary mounting bracket may be arranged in any configuration described herein. Each mounting bracket may be arranged in a similar manner. In some embodiments, the luminaire includes a plurality of mounting brackets, for example, the luminaire may include: two mounting brackets, three mounting brackets, four mounting brackets, five mounting brackets, six mounting brackets, seven mounting brackets, or eight mounting brackets. Each mounting bracket may be slidable along at least a portion of the mounting rail. It will be appreciated that when an embodiment includes a single mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is slidable along the entire length of the mounting rail.When an embodiment includes a plurality of mounting brackets, while each mounting bracket individually may be capable of sliding along the entire length of the mounting rail, when a plurality of mounting brackets are mounted on the mounting rail, in some embodiments they may interfere with each other. For example, a first mounting bracket may limit the movement of a second mounting bracket along the mounting rail, and the second mounting bracket may limit the movement of the first mounting bracket along the mounting rail.

[0043] The length of the first portion of the elongated housing may be at least 0.6 m long, at least 0.8 m long, at least 1.0 m long, or at least 1.2 m long.

[0044] The first portion of the elongated housing may have a width to length ratio of at least 1 / 10, preferably at least 1 / 15, and more preferably at least 1 / 20. The width is the maximum width of the first portion of the housing. The length is the maximum length of the first portion of the housing.

[0045] The first elongated portion of the housing may include a first molded component, and may include plastic material, such as polycarbonate. Typically, at least a portion of the first elongated portion of the housing is optically opaque.

[0046] The second elongated portion of the housing may include a second molded component, and may include plastic material, such as polycarbonate. Typically, at least a portion of the second elongated portion of the housing is optically transparent or translucent.

[0047] The luminaire may comprise an anti-corrosive luminaire.

[0048] The luminaire may have an infiltration protection rating (Ingress High IP rating (IP) for protection against water and dust ingress. For example, the luminaire may have an IP rating of at least IP65. This allows the luminaire to be used in damp or humid conditions without malfunctioning the luminaire.

[0049] The luminaire may have a high Impact Protection (IK) rating. For example, the luminaire may have an IK rating of at least IK08. Brief description of the drawings

[0050] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0051] [Fig.l] is an isometric view of a luminaire according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0052] [Fig.2] is an isometric view of the embodiment of [Fig.l] from a different angle;

[0053] [Fig.3] is a plan view of a lower face of the embodiment of [Fig.l];

[0054] [Fig.4] is a side view of the embodiment of [Fig.1];

[0055] [Fig.5] is a plan view of one side from above of the embodiment of [Fig.l]

[0056] [Fig.6] is an enlarged isometric view of a first end of the mode of realization of [Fig.l];

[0057] [Fig.7] is an enlarged isometric view of a second end of the embodiment of [Fig.1]; and

[0058] [Fig.8] is an enlarged end view of the second end of the embodiment of [Fig.1].

[0059] Figures 1 to 8 show a luminaire 1 (sometimes referred to as a “lighting accessory” or “lighting fixture”), according to one embodiment of the invention. Usually, the luminaire 1 is of a type which is sometimes referred to as: “anti-corrosive luminaire”. Detailed description

[0060] The luminaire 1 includes an elongated housing 3 having a first elongated portion 3a and a second elongated portion 3b.

[0061] The length CL of the elongated housing 3 is usually at least 0.6 m, for example the length can be: 0.6 m, 0.7 m, 0.8 m, 0.9 m, 1.0 m, 1.1 m, 1.2 m, 1.3 m, 1.4 m, 1.5 m, 1.6 m, 1.7 m, 1.8 m, 1.9 m, 2 m.

[0062] The CW width of the elongated housing is usually at least 70 mm, and may be greater than or equal to 80 mm, 90 mm, or 100 mm. Usually the CW width of the housing is less than or equal to 150 mm, and is usually less than or equal to 140 mm.

[0063] Typically, the luminaire 1 has a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, typically rated at least IP65 or IP66 for protection against water and dust ingress, which allows the luminaire 1 to be used in damp or humid conditions without malfunction of the luminaire. Preferably, the luminaire has a high IK (Impact Protection) rating, for example rated at IK08 to IK10 for good impact resistance.

[0064] The high IP rating may be achieved, for example, by providing suitable seals at joints and openings. High IK ratings may be achieved by selecting a suitable material for the housing, such as plastic, for example polycarbonate, and / or a suitable wall thickness for the housing 3.

[0065] In a state where the first elongated portion 3a is mounted on the second elongated portion 3b, the housing 3 forms an enclosure that accommodates a lighting device (not shown), which is usually a solid-state lighting device having an arrangement of LEDs mounted on one or more PCBs and at least one LED driver.

[0066] The first elongated portion 3a is separable from the second elongated portion 3b and is removably attachable to the second elongated portion 3b. The luminaire 3 includes a plurality of fastening elements 5 which are arranged to removably attach the first elongated portion 3a to the second elongated portion 3b. The fastening elements 5 are distributed along the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a and which are located on each lateral side 3al, 3a2 of the first elongated portion 3a. In [Fig.l], 12 fastening elements 5 are provided, six fastening elements 5 located on each lateral side 3al, 3a2 of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing for a luminaire 1 having a housing length CL of approximately 1.5 m, however it will be appreciated that the number of fixing elements 5 can be increased or decreased depending on the requirements. Also, the number of fixing elements 5 can be different for different housing lengths CL, for example a housing length of 1.2 m can have 10 fixing elements 5 distributed over the length of the first elongated part 3a.

[0067] Each fastener 5 may be of any type suitable for releasably attaching the second elongate portion 3b of the housing to the first elongate portion 3a of the housing. For example, in some embodiments, each fastener 5 comprises a snap-action type fastener. Typically, each fastener 5 comprises a fastener member 5a that is movable, in translation and / or by pivoting, between a locking position, in which the fastener member 5a engages the second elongate portion of the housing and securely clamps the second elongate portion 3b of the housing to the first elongate portion 3a of the housing, and a non-locking position, in which the second elongate portion 3b of the housing is disengaged and is not securely clamped to the first elongate portion 3a of the housing.When all of the fastening members 5a are in their respective non-locking positions, the second elongated portion 3b of the housing can be separated from the first elongated portion 3a of the housing.

[0068] The first elongated portion 3a of the housing includes a mounting rail 7. The mounting rail 7 extends over a substantial portion of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing. The mounting rail 7 passes through a central portion of the mounting rail in a longitudinal direction. Typically, the mounting rail length RL is at least 70% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing and may be up to 100% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing.In some arrangements, the mounting rail length RL is at least 75% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, at least 80% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, at least 85% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, at least 90% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, at least 95% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, or 100% of the length CL of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing. The greater the mounting rail length RL, the greater the flexibility available to the installer in attaching the luminaire 1 to a mounting device or mounting surface, since there are more positions in which the mounting brackets can be located on the housing for the purpose of better attaching the luminaire to the mounting device or mounting surface.

[0069] Usually, the mounting rail 7 is arranged relative to the first part of the housing 3a, such that the center of the mounting rail 7 coincides with the center of the first housing part in the longitudinal direction. That is, the mounting rail 7 extends outwardly from the center of the first housing part 3a by a distance RL / 2 toward a first end of the first housing part 3a, and the mounting rail 7 extends outwardly from the center of the first housing part 3a by a distance RL / 2 toward a second end of the first housing part 3a.

[0070] The mounting rail 7 comprises a body 7a, which is usually a central elongated portion of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing, and is therefore aligned with a central elongated axis ZZ of the first elongated portion 3a of the housing. A plurality of ribs 9 project outwardly from the body 7a. At least one rib 9 projects outwardly from a first lateral side 7al of the body 7, the at least one rib 9 being arranged along the entire length RL of the mounting rail, or at least a substantial portion of the length RL of the mounting rail. For example, a rib 9 may be arranged to be arranged along the entire length of the first lateral side 7al of the body 7, or substantially along the entire length of the first lateral side 7al of the body 7.Alternatively, a plurality of ribs 9 may project outwardly from the first lateral side 7al of the body and the plurality of ribs 9 are arranged to extend toward a single rib 9 that is disposed along the entire length RL of the first lateral side 7al of the body 7. For example, the plurality of ribs 9 may be arranged such that each rib 9 is elongated, each rib 9 is axially aligned, and each rib 9 is spaced from an adjacent rib 9 by a respective gap 11. The at least one rib may project perpendicularly outwardly from the first lateral side 7al of the body 7.

[0071] At least one rib 9 projects outwardly from a second lateral side 7a2 of the body 7, the at least one rib 9 being arranged along the entire length RL of the mounting rail, or at least a substantial portion of the length RL of the mounting rail. For example, a rib 9 may be arranged to be arranged along the entire length of the second lateral side 7a2 of the body 7, or substantially along the entire length of the second lateral side 7a2 of the body 7. Alternatively, a plurality of ribs 9 may project outwardly from the second lateral side 7a2 of the body and the plurality of ribs 9 are arranged to extend toward a single rib 9 which is arranged along the entire length RL of the second lateral side 7a2 of the body 7.For example, the plurality of ribs 9 may be arranged such that each rib 9 is elongated, each rib 9 is axially aligned, and each rib 9 is spaced from an adjacent rib 9 by a respective gap 11. The gap length GL between two adjacent ribs 9 is the distance between two adjacent ribs 9 generally in the direction of the ZZ axis (see [Fig.5]). Usually, all spaces 11 have the same space length GL. The at least one rib may project perpendicularly outwardly from the second lateral side 7a2 of the body 7.

[0072] Having a plurality of ribs 9 on each lateral side 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body 7, rather than having a respective single rib 9 that is disposed along the entire length RL of each lateral side 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body 7, improves the manufacturability and performance of the luminaire 1. The inventors have found that respective single ribs 9 being disposed along the entire length of the respective lateral sides 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body have an increased risk of warping after the molding process. By having a plurality of ribs 9 separated by spaces 11 on each lateral side 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body, the tendency to warp is significantly reduced. Since each rib 9 is shorter than a rib 9 that is arranged along the entire length of the mounting rail, usually the shorter ribs 9 are more rigid.Usually, at least three ribs 9, and preferably at least four ribs 9, are provided on each lateral side 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body. In the embodiment of [Fig.l], five ribs 9 are provided on each lateral side 7al, 7a2 of the mounting rail body.

[0073] A first recess 15 is provided below the ribs 9 on the first lateral side 7al and a second recess 15 is provided below the ribs 9 on the second lateral side 7a2. The ribs 9 and / or the recesses 15 provide engagement structures.

[0074] Each rib 9 may include an arrangement of ridges 13, which project outwardly from an upper surface of the rib. The ridges 13 enhance the stiffness of the ribs 9.

[0075] The luminaire 1 includes at least one, and preferably a plurality of mounting brackets 17. Each mounting bracket 17 is arranged to engage the mounting rail 7 and is arranged to be connected to a mounting surface, such as a ceiling, wall or beam, or a mounting device, such as a bracket, cable or frame. Two mounting brackets 17 are shown in the Figures, however any feasible number of mounting brackets may be used, for example one mounting bracket 17, two mounting brackets 17, three mounting brackets 17, four mounting brackets 17, five mounting brackets 17, six mounting brackets 17, seven mounting brackets 17, or eight mounting brackets 17.

[0076] The position of each mounting bracket 17 is adjustable relative to the mounting rail 7. For example, each mounting bracket 17 may be slidably mounted on the mounting rail 7. This allows the position of each mounting bracket 17 to be continuously adjustable along the entire length of the mounting rail 7. It will be appreciated that if there is a single mounting bracket 17, it will be adjustable along the entire length RL of the mounting rail 7. For embodiments including a plurality of mounting brackets 17, the position of a first mounting bracket 17 on the mounting rail 7 may limit the available positions of a second mounting bracket 17 mounted on the mounting rail 7.

[0077] Each mounting bracket 17 may comprise a first portion 17a which is arranged to slidably engage with ribs 9 located on the first lateral side 7al of the mounting rail, a second portion 17b which is arranged to slidably engage with ribs 9 located on the second lateral side 7a2 of the mounting rail, and a third portion 17c which connects the first and second portions 17a, 17b of the bracket. Each of the first and second portions 17a, 17b is shaped to engage lower faces of the ribs 9, i.e., the faces of the ribs 9 that face generally downwardly toward the second elongate portion 3b, the housing 3. Typically, the lower faces of the ribs 9 are smooth to allow the supports 17 to move continuously relative to the ribs.However, in some embodiments, it is possible to include location structures on ribs 9 to facilitate distinct positions of the brackets 17 along the mounting rail 7, and the brackets 17 may include location structures that are arranged to engage the location structures on the ribs 9 in or to select the distinct positions.

[0078] Each bracket 17 may be removably attachable to the mounting rail 7. For example, at least the first and second portions of the bracket 17a, 17b may be sufficiently resilient to allow the separation between the first and second portions 17a, 17b to be increased to force the bracket 17 to open and disengage from the ribs 9. The first and second portions 17a, 17b may each include a wall 17e that tapers inwardly toward the mounting body 7a and a lip 17f that engages the underside of the ribs 9 and is located in the recess 15. Each tapering wall 17e may be arranged to flex to allow its respective lip 17f to disengage from the ribs 9.

[0079] Each support 17 may be made from plastic and / or metal. For example, each support may be made from steel, such as spring steel.

[0080] At least one of the first and second portions 17a, 17b of the support may include a finger gripping structure 17g to allow the first and second portions 17a, 17b to be forced apart.

[0081] The support length BL, which is the dimension of the support 17 that is generally aligned with the axis ZZ of the mounting rail (see Figures 5 and 7), is greater than the gap length GL. Thus, each bracket 17 is sufficiently long such that the bracket 17 is able to form a bridge over the gaps 11. That is, when the bracket 17 is slid along the mounting rail 7 and through the gaps 11, the bracket 17 remains engaged with the currently engaged ribs 9 until the adjacent ribs 9 are engaged. Typically, the bracket length BL is at least 1.5 times the gap length GL, and preferably at least twice the gap length GL, to ensure that there is a good connection between the bracket 17 and the currently engaged ribs 9 while traversing the gaps 11.

[0082] If the spaces 11 have different GL space lengths, usually the support length BL is at least twice the maximum GL space length.

[0083] The third portion is typically planar or includes a planar mounting portion. The third portion 17c may include at least one mounting structure 17d, such as an opening or a projection, which is arranged to allow the bracket 17 to be attached to the mounting surface or the mounting device. For example, as shown in [Fig.6], the third portion 17c of the bracket may include an arrangement of openings 17d, each of which may receive a fastening member, such as a member projecting from a mounting device or a screw-in element to secure the bracket 17 to the mounting surface or the mounting device.

[0084] Optionally, the luminaire 1 may include a first cable gland 19 located at a first end 4 of the housing 3. Optionally, the luminaire 2 includes a second cable gland 19 located at a second end 6 of the housing 3. Typically, the first cable gland 19 is attached to the first portion of the housing 3a. Typically, the second cable gland 19 is attached to the first portion of the housing 3a. The cable glands 19 allow cables to enter and exit the luminaire 1 in a sealed manner.

[0085] Optionally, the housing 3 may include at least one weakness zone 21 in the first portion of the housing 3a. The weakness zone 21 allows an opening to be formed in the first portion of the housing 3a, for example to receive additional electrical wiring. Typically, the housing 3 includes a plurality of weakness zones distributed along the length of the first portion of the housing 3a. For example, at least one of the first lateral side 3al of the first portion of the housing 3a, the second lateral side 3a2 of the first portion of the housing 3a, and a top surface of the mounting rail 7 may include a plurality of weakness zones distributed along the length of the first portion of the housing 3a. For example, each of the first and second lateral sides 3al, 3a2 of the first portion of the housing 3a may include n weakness zones 21, where n is in the range from 3 to 10.The upper surface of the mounting rail 7 may include m weakness zones 21, where m is included. in the range from 3 to 15. The greater the number of weakness zones 21, the greater the installation flexibility. In the Figures, the lateral sides have five weakness zones 21 and the upper surface of the mounting rail includes nine weakness zones 21.

[0086] When the luminaire 1 is installed, it will usually be either: 1. suspended; 2. surface mounted on a ceiling or beam; or 3. surface mounted on a BESA box. During installation, the mounting brackets 17 are usually attached to the ceiling or beam, the suspended cable or the BESA box, for example the brackets 17 can be screwed to the ceiling, beam or BESA box. The mounting rail 7 of the luminaire 1 is then clipped onto the mounting brackets 17 such that the mounting brackets 17 engage the mounting rail 7 and support the housing 3. Since the mounting brackets 17 can be positioned anywhere along the length of the mounting rail 7, this gives the installer a great degree of flexibility in positioning the mounting brackets 17 on the mounting surface, wherever it is appropriate to do so.

[0087] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications may be made to the above embodiments that fall within the scope of the invention, for example, the second elongate portion 3b of the elongate housing may be pivotally attached to the first elongate portion 3a along one side, and may have a plurality of attachment members located on an opposite side. This arrangement provides access to the interior of the housing, but the first and second elongate portions 3a, 3b of the housing are not entirely separable from each other.

[0088] At least some of the fastening elements 5 may be located on the second elongated portion 3b of the housing. In this arrangement, each fastening element 5 that is located on the second elongated portion 3b of the housing fastening element 5 comprises a fastening member 5a that is movable between a locking position, in which the fastening member 5a engages the first elongated portion 3a of the housing and securely clamps the first elongated portion 3a of the housing to the second elongated portion 3b of the housing, and a non-locking position, in which the first elongated portion 3b of the housing is disengaged and is not securely clamped to the second elongated portion 3b of the housing.

[0089] In some embodiments, at least one of the fastening elements 5 is mounted on the first elongated portion 3a of the housing and at least one fastening element 5 is mounted on the second elongated portion 3b of the housing.

[0090] While the embodiment of [Fig. 1] has the spaces 11 on the first lateral side 7al of the mounting rail longitudinally aligned with the spaces 11 on the second lateral side 7a2 of the mounting rail, it is possible to have the spaces 11 on the first lateral side longitudinally offset relative to the spaces 11 on the second lateral side 7a2.

[0091] The description presents exemplary embodiments and, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the invention. However, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments or to exact conformity to all of the installation steps of the method, since variations will occur to those skilled in the art and are also deemed to be covered by the claims. Terms for components used herein are to be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some instances, several alternative (synonymous) terms for structural features have been provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive.

[0092] Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; for example, the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "including" such that, upon interpretation of each expression in this specification that includes the term "comprising," features other than the one or ones preceded by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "include" and "comprises" should be interpreted in the same manner. Directional terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "up," "down," "upper," and "lower" may be used for ease of explanation, usually with reference to the illustrations, and are not intended to be ultimately limiting if an equivalent function can be achieved with an alternative dimension and / or direction.

[0093] The description herein refers to embodiments with particular combinations of features or configuration steps, however, it is contemplated that complementary combinations and cross-combinations of compatible features or steps between embodiments are possible. Indeed, isolated features may function independently as an invention with respect to other features and do not necessarily require implementation as a complete combination. Any feature from one embodiment may be isolated from that embodiment and included in any other embodiment.

[0094] The expression "at least one (...) of" should be interpreted as meaning "and / or". For example, the expression "at least one of the first support portion and the second support portion" should be interpreted as meaning any of the following: the first support portion alone; the second support portion alone; or the combination of the first and second support portions. As another example, the expression "at least one part of the first part, the second part and the third part” shall be construed as meaning any of the following: the first part alone; the second part alone; the third part alone; the combination of the first part and the second part; the combination of the first part and the third part; the combination of the second part and the third part; or the combination of the first part, the second part and the third part.

Claims

Claims

1. A luminaire (1), comprising: an elongated housing (3) having a first elongated portion (3a) and a second elongated portion (3b), wherein at least a portion of the second elongated portion (3b) is optically transparent or translucent; at least one lighting device located within the elongated housing (3); and a mounting bracket (17) arranged to attach the elongated housing (3) to a mounting surface; wherein the first elongated portion (3a) of the housing (3) includes a mounting rail (7) having a length (RL) that extends longitudinally for at least 70% of the length (CL) of the first elongated portion (3a) of the housing (3), the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage the mounting rail (7), and the position of the mounting bracket (17) is adjustable relative to the mounting rail (7);wherein the mounting rail (7) has a first lateral side (7al) that is disposed longitudinally along the mounting rail (7), the first lateral side (7al) of the mounting rail (7) includes a first engagement structure, and a first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage with the first engagement structure, the first engagement structure comprises a plurality of first ribs (9) that are aligned in the longitudinal direction, wherein each first rib (9) extends along a different portion of the first lateral side (7al) of the mounting rail (7), and the first ribs (9) in at least one pair of adjacent first ribs (9) are separated in the longitudinal direction by a gap (11), and the bracket (17) is sized and shaped to bridge the gap (11) between the pair of adjacent first ribs (9).;

2. The luminaire (1) of claim 1, wherein the mounting rail (7) extends longitudinally over at least 75% of the length (CL) of the first portion (3a) of the elongate housing (3), the mounting rail (7) which extends longitudinally over at least 80% of the length (CL) of the first portion (3a) of the elongate housing (3), the mounting rail (7) which extends longitudinally over at least 85% of the length (CL) of the first portion (3a) of the elongate housing (3), the mounting rail (7) which extends longitudinally over at least 90% of the length (CL) of the first portion (3a) of the elongate housing (3), the mounting rail (7) which extends longitudinally over at least 95% of the length (CL) of the first part (3a) of the elongated housing (3), or the mounting rail (7) which extends longitudinally over approximately 100% of the length (CL) of the first part (3a) of the elongated housing (3).

3. The luminaire (1) of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to slide along the mounting rail (7).

4. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting bracket (17) is removably attachable to the mounting rail (7).

5. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting rail (7) is arranged relative to the first part (3a) of the housing (3) such that the center of the mounting rail (7) in a longitudinal direction coincides with the center of the first part (3a) of the housing (3) in the longitudinal direction.

6. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the gap (9) has a gap length (GL), the support has a support length (BL), and the support length (BL) is greater than the gap length (GL).

7. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the support length (BL) is at least 1.5 times greater than the gap length (GL), is preferably at least 1.8 times greater than the gap length (GL), and more preferably is at least 2 times greater than the gap length (GL).

8. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein each first rib (9) has an engaging surface which faces generally towards the second elongate portion (3b) of the housing (3), and the first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage the engaging surface.

9. The luminaire (1) of claim 8, wherein the first engaging structure includes a first recess (15) that extends longitudinally along at least a portion of the length (RL) of the first lateral side (7al) of the mounting rail (7), and the first recess (15) is located below the or each first rib (9) and at least a portion of the first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to fit the first recess (15).

10. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) is resilient.

11. The luminaire (1) of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) includes a finger grip portion (17g) which is arranged to allow a user to manually detach the first portion (17a) of the mounting bracket (17) from the first engagement structure.

12. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting rail (7) has a second lateral side (7a2) which is disposed longitudinally along the mounting rail (7), the second lateral side (7a2) of the mounting rail (7) includes a second engagement structure and the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage with the second engagement structure.

13. The luminaire (1) of claim 12, wherein the second engaging structure comprises a plurality of second ribs (9) which are aligned in the longitudinal direction, wherein each second rib (9) extends along a different portion of the second lateral side (7a2) of the mounting rail (7), and the second ribs (9) in at least one pair of adjacent second ribs (9) are separated in the longitudinal direction by a gap (11), wherein the bracket (17) is sized and shaped to form a bridge over the gap (11) between the pair of adjacent second ribs (9).

14. The luminaire (1) of claim 13, wherein the gap (11) has a gap length (GL), the support (17) has a support length (BL), and the support length (BL) is greater than the gap length (GL).

15. The luminaire (1) of claim 14, wherein the support length (BL) is at least 1.5 times greater than the gap length (GL), is preferably at least 1.8 times greater than the gap length (GL), and more preferably is at least 2 times greater than the gap length (GL).

16. The luminaire (1) of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the or each second rib (9) has an engaging surface which faces generally towards the second elongate portion (3b) of the housing (3), and a second portion (17b) of the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to engage the engaging surface.

17. The luminaire (1) of claim 16, wherein the second engaging structure includes a second recess which extends longitudinally over at least a portion of the length (RL) of the second lateral side (7a2) of the mounting rail (7), and the second recess is located below the or each second rib (9) and at least a portion of the second portion (17b) of the mounting bracket (17) is arranged to fit the second recess.

18. The luminaire (1) of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the second portion (17b) of the mounting bracket (17) is resilient.

19. The luminaire (1) of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the second part (17b) of the mounting bracket (17) includes a finger grip portion (17g) which is arranged to allow a user to manually detach the second part (17b) of the mounting bracket (17) from the second engagement structure.

20. The luminaire (1) of any one of claims 16 to 19 when dependent on claim 8 or any other claim dependent on claim 8, wherein the mounting bracket (17) includes a third portion (17c) which connects the first (17a) and second (17b) portions of the mounting bracket (17) to each other, wherein the third portion (17c) lies transversely across the mounting rail (7), when the mounting bracket (17) engages with the first and second engagement structures.

21. The luminaire (1) of claim 20, wherein the third portion (17c) of the mounting bracket (17) includes at least one mounting structure, such as an opening or a projection, which is arranged to engage a mounting surface or a mounting device.

22. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, including at least one complementary mounting bracket (17).

23. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, having an Ingress Protection (IP) rating for protection against water and dust ingress of at least IP65.

24. The luminaire (1) of any preceding claim, having an Impact Protection (IK) rating of at least IK08.

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