An improved lighting assembly

Abstract

The apparatus, for connecting a base and lighting assembly of a light fitting, comprises a first connector 10 including a first body having a first side connectable to the base. At least one resilient

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention is concerned with lighting assemblies or luminaires which are intended for installation on a ceiling or similar surface in order to illuminate the space below. The present invention provides a number of improvements for such assemblies over those known in the art. Background of the Invention Fluorescent tube or strip lighting was traditionally used in commercial and industrial locations to illuminate those locations in the most efficient way possible. Such lighting consisted primarily of: (i) a base unit which was secured to, or from, a ceiling or similar surface; (ii) a lighting tray which was fitted into the base unit and carried hardware and light fittings; and (iii) a diffuser which when attached to the tray and base unit covered the components on the lighting tray and also diffused the light emitted from the light fittings. With the development of LED lighting these fluorescent tube lights are being phased out in favour of LED batten lights. These battens have a similar outward appearance to the fluorescent tube lights and similarly comprise a base unit, lighting tray and diffuser. The main difference is obviously that the lighting tray now carries the hardware and fittings for LED lighting as opposed to fluorescent tubes. The present invention provides a number of solutions to problems inherent in both fluorescent tube and LED batten lighting, as those problems relate to how the base unit, lighting tray and diffuser co-operate with one another as opposed to the specific hardware and fittings contained within the overall lighting assembly. For example, in existing lighting assemblies of this kind a number of clips are used to secure the lighting tray to the base unit. Given that installation or maintenance personnel working on such lighting will typically be working at height (e.g. on a ladder) and using both hands to handle these relatively long components it can be hard to engage or release such clips. In particular, when the clips are released the catches or locking components of the clips may still be partly engaged, making it harder for the personnel to safely remove the lighting tray from the base. Similarly, when one is looking to attach the lighting tray and diffuser to the base it can be hard to ensure that the ends of the components are aligned and engaged when working up a ladder and the strip light or batten components in question may be 6-8ft (1.83-2.44m) long. The base units of existing strip or batten lights may be provided with wiring and terminal blocks for powering the lights. Typically, these blocks are provided in one or more fixed locations on the base unit, so there is little to no flexibility for an installer as to where to run the wiring and locate the terminal blocks. Similarly, hardware such as the clips for connecting the base and tray, and cable holders for keeping the electrical cables neat and tidy, are typically attached to the base or tray of existing assemblies using mechanical fixtures such as screws. This can mean that adjustment, maintenance and / or replacement of any of these components is timeconsuming, as these fixtures have to be removed or at least loosened before that work can take place. Again, if that work has to take place whilst the personnel is up a ladder this is an added health and safety risk for the personnel. It is an aim of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more of the aforementioned problems with existing tube and batten lighting assemblies. Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for connecting a base and a lighting assembly of a light fitting, the apparatus comprising: a first connector comprising: a first body having a first side connectable to the base; and at least one resilient locking tab extending from a second side of the first body, the at least one locking tab having at least one locking tooth and being moveable between locked and unlocked positions and biased towards the locked position; and a second connector comprising: a second body having a first side connectable to the lighting assembly; and at least one locking detent formed on a second side of the second body; wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together the at least one locking tooth and locking detent engage one another to lock the two connectors together, and when the at least one locking tab is moved to the unlocked position the connectors are released from one another. Preferably, the first connector comprises first and second resilient locking tabs extending from a second side of the first body, each locking tab having at least one locking tooth; and the second connector comprises a corresponding pair of locking detents formed on a second side of the second body. Preferably, the apparatus further comprises: at least one resilient biasing member extending from the second side of the first body, the at least one biasing member having a distal end with a first engagement surface; and at least one projection extending from the second side of the second body, each projection having a second engagement surface; wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together the first and second engagement surfaces contact one another and press the at least one biasing member away from the first body, and when the at least one locking tab is moved to the unlocked position to release the connectors from one another the at least one biasing member pushes the second connector away from the first connector. Preferably, the apparatus comprises: at least one pair of resilient biasing members extending from the second side of the first body such that the biasing members face each other, each biasing member having a distal end with a first engagement surface; and at least one corresponding pair of projections extending from the second side of the second body, each projection having a second engagement surface; wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together the first and second engagement surfaces contact one another and press the at least one pair of biasing members away from one another. Preferably, the first connector comprises two pairs of biasing members extending from the second side of the first body such that each pair of biasing members faces each other; and the second connector comprises two pairs of projections extending from the second side of the second body. Preferably, the first side of the first connector comprises at least one first rib engageable with a corresponding portion of the base such that in use a sliding connection is made between the first connector and base. Preferably, the first side of the second connector comprises at least one second rib engageable with a corresponding portion of the lighting apparatus such that in use a sliding connection is made between the second connector and lighting apparatus. According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a light fitting comprising: a base unit; a lighting assembly; and an apparatus according to the first aspect connecting the base and the light fitting. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a terminal block for a lighting assembly, the block comprising: a housing having an underside connectable to a base of the lighting assembly, and a topside having at least one guide member projecting therefrom; and a body having a plurality of terminal ports, and at least one guide aperture adapted to receive the respective guide member of the housing; and wherein the housing has at least one locking element which engages a surface of the body so as to selectively lock the body to the housing. Preferably, the housing has a pair of resilient side walls projecting from the topside of the housing, each side wall including one of said locking elements and being biased towards a locked position where the body is locked to the housing, each side wall also including a tab for moving the side wall from the locked position to an unlocked position where the body can be removed from the housing. Preferably, the at least one guide member and guide aperture have symmetrical shapes which cooperate with one another whereby the body can be attached to the housing in only a first orientation and a second orientation which is 180 degrees from the first orientation. Preferably, the underside of the housing has at least one connector connectable to the base of the lighting assembly, the at least one connector having a proximal end at the housing and a distal end remote from the housing, the distal end having a diameter or width which is greater than that of the proximal end. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a base for a lighting assembly comprising at least one terminal block according to the third aspect. Preferably, the base comprises at least one slot for receiving the at least one connector, the slot having a first slot end which is wider than a second slot end. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided an end cap for a lighting apparatus having a base and a lighting assembly attachable to the base, the end cap comprising: a first end cap portion attachable to an end of the base, the first end cap portion having a first outer end panel, at least one first guide surface extending inwardly from the first outer end panel, and at least one first engagement member; a second end cap portion attachable to an end of the lighting assembly, the second end cap having a second outer end panel, at least one guide member extending inwardly from the second outer end panel, and at least one second engagement member; wherein the at least one guide member and the at least one first guide surface engage one another as the first and second end cap portions are brought together, and the at least one guide member and at least one first guide surface lie at a common acute angle relative to their respective outer end panels. Preferably, the first end cap portion and the second end cap portion have a respective pair of first guide surfaces and guide members, and wherein the at least one first engagement member and at least one second engagement member are located between the pair of first guide surfaces and guide members, respectively. Preferably, the first end cap portion further comprises at least one second guide surface extending inwardly from the first outer end panel, wherein the at least one first guide surface provides guidance for the guide members along a first axis and the at least one second guide surface provides guidance for the guide members along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. Preferably, the first end cap portion has at least a pair of second guide surfaces and the first end cap portion and second end cap portion each have respective pairs of first and second engagement members, and the first engagement members are resilient members attached to the respective second guide surfaces and adapted to form a snap-fit with the second engagement members when the two end cap portions are brought together. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a support element for a light fitting, the support element comprising a body portion lying in a first plane and at least one attachment portion raised from the body portion and lying in a second plane parallel to the first plane, wherein the body portion and attachment portion between them define at least one elongate slot for sliding engagement between a lighting component and the support element. Preferably, the body portion and / or attachment portion further comprises at least one abutment member adjacent the at least one slot, the abutment member having a guide surface at an acute angle to the first and second planes and an abutment surface at a distal end of the guide surface, whereby the guide surface allows a lighting component to enter the at least one slot in a first direction and the abutment surface prevents the lighting component from leaving the slot in a second, opposite direction. Preferably, the abutment member is a first abutment member having a first abutment surface, the first abutment member adjacent a first end of the at least one slot, and the body portion further comprises a second abutment member adjacent a second end of the at least one slot, the second abutment member having a second abutment surface limiting movement of a lighting component in the at least one slot in the first direction. Preferably, at least one of the body portion and the attachment portion includes one or more detents so as to provide a frictional engagement for a lighting component in the at least one slot. Preferably, the attachment portion has two sides and a slot is defined between the body portion and attachment portion at each of those two sides. Preferably, the support element comprises a pair of attachment portions in the second plane, a slot being defined between the body portion and each of the attachment portions. Preferably, the support element further comprises a lighting component selected from the group comprising a cable holder and a connector. Preferably, the support element is a base of the light fitting, the base attachable to a surface. Preferably, when the lighting component is a connector the connector comprises: a connector body having a first side connectable to the base; at least one resilient locking tab extending from a second side of the connector body, the at least one locking tab having at least one locking tooth and being moveable between locked and unlocked positions and biased towards the locked position; and at least one resilient biasing member extending from the second side of the connector body, each biasing member having a distal end with a first engagement surface. Preferably, the support element is a lighting tray of the light fitting, the lighting tray connectable to both a diffuser and a base of the light fitting. Preferably, when the lighting component is a connector the connector comprises: a connector body having a first side connectable to the lighting tray; at least one locking detent formed on a second side of the connector body; and at least one projection extending from the second side of the connector body, the at least one projection having a second engagement surface. Brief Description of the Drawings Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings where: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a lighting apparatus; Figure 2 is a section view along the line ll-ll in Fig. 1; Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views of a connecting clip of the lighting apparatus in unlocked and locked states, respectively; Figures 5 and 6 are perspective views of the bottom and top sides, respectively, of a first part of the connecting clip of Figs. 3 and 4; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second part of the connecting clip of Figs. 3 and 4; Figures 8 and 9 are sectional and end views of the connecting clip in the locked state; Figures 10 and 11 are sectional and end views of the connecting clip in the unlocked state; Figure 12 is an exploded view of a terminal block for the lighting apparatus; Figure 13 is a perspective view of the terminal block in an assembled state; Figure 14 is a view of the underside of the terminal block of Fig.13; Figure 15 is a top view of a base of the lighting apparatus; Figure 16 is a perspective view of an end of the base of Fig. 15; Figures 17 and 18 are views of a mounting side of the base with a terminal block being attached to the base; Figure 19 is a side view of the lighting apparatus in a disassembled state; Figure 20 is a perspective view of first and second end caps of the lighting apparatus; Figure 21 is a sectional view of the end caps of Fig.20; Figure 22 is an end view of the end caps of Fig. 20; Figures 23 and 24 are top views of the base and lighting tray of the lighting apparatus; Figures 25 and 26 are detail views of portions of the base as well as the second connector part and a cable holder component which attach thereto; Figure 27 is a detail view of the lighting tray as well as the first connector part which attaches thereto; Figures 28-30 show the components of Figs. 25-27 connected to the base or tray, respectively; Figure 31 is an exploded view of a LED batten; Figure 32 is an exploded view of a base of the LED batten of Fig. 31; and Figure 33 is an exploded view of a lighting tray and diffuser of the LED batten of Fig. 31. Detailed Description of the Drawings The illustrated embodiments of present invention show a lighting apparatus in the form of a LED batten. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to this type of lighting apparatus and that it can applied to all types of elongate lighting apparatus so long as the apparatus comprises a base unit, lighting tray and diffuser, e.g. traditional fluorescent tube lighting. Figures 1 and 2 show a lighting apparatus 1 comprising a base unit 2 which is to be attached to, or suspended from, a ceiling or similar surface. The lighting apparatus 1 further comprises a lighting tray 4 and a diffuser 6 (not shown in Fig. 1) which are selectively connected to the base unit 2 by one or more connectors 8. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the apparatus 1 has two connectors 8. The base unit 2 has a pair of first end caps 3 at either end thereof, whilst the lighting tray 4 has a corresponding pair of second end caps 5 at either end thereof. The second end caps 5 are shaped according to the profile of the diffuser, which in this case has a hemi-spherical profile and thus so do the second end caps. As can be seen in Fig. 1 each connector 8 has a first connector part 10 attached to the base unit 2, and a second connector part 20 attached to the lighting tray 4. Further details of how the connector parts 10,20 are attached is set out below with particular reference to Figs. 25-30. Figure 2 is a section view of the apparatus 1 of Fig.1 at the location of one of the connectors 8, albeit with the diffuser 6 now attached to the lighting tray 4. Figures 3 and 4 show a connector 8 in unlocked and locked states, respectively. In the unlocked state the first and second connector parts 10,20 are not engaged or locked to one another, whereas in the locked state the two parts are engaged. More detail of the connectors 8 and their engagement will be provided with particular reference to Figs. 5-11. Figures 5 and 6 are views of the underside and top of the second connector part 20. The second connector part 20 has a generally flat body 21. A pair of longitudinal ribs 22 are formed on the top side of the body 21 for engagement with a lighting tray. At either side of the body 21 there is a flange 23 which extends downwards from the body 21 substantially at right angles to the body. At a distal end of each flange 23 is a detent or lip 24 which runs along the flange and projects inwardly towards the centre of the body 21. Located at each corner of the body 21 is a projecting member 25 which extends downwards beyond the downward extent of the flanges 23. A distal end of each projecting member 25 has a second engagement surface 26, which in the illustrated embodiment is a curved surface. As seen in Fig.5 the underside of the second connector part 20 also has a security tab 27, which in use will hold a short security cable (not shown). This cable is connected between a security tab 18 on the first connector part 10 and the security tab 27 on the second connector part 27 so as to ensure that the tray and diffuser do not fall from the base when the connector parts 10,20 are released from one another. Figure 7 shows the first connector part 10 in more detail. The first connector part 10 is formed from a generally flat base member 11, with a pair of guide members 12 extending upwards substantially at right angles to the base member from either side of the base member. Located inside of each guide member 12 is a resilient locking tab 13, each of which is preferably integrally formed with the base member 11 and can pivot relative to the base member and guide members between locked and unlocked positions. At a free end of each locking tab 13 is at least one locking tooth 14 which is arranged facing away from the base member 11 in a direction substantially opposite to a direction in which the detent or lip 24 of the second connector part 20 faces. Each locking tab 13 may have a button 15 arranged on an external surface thereof so as to effect movement of the tab between the locked and unlocked positions when the button is pushed. Alternatively, unlocking the tab 13 can be achieved simply by pressing the tab inwards towards the centre of the first connector part 10. Pairs of resilient biasing members 16 are provided at either side of the base member 11, with each pair of biasing members facing the other in the longitudinal direction. Each biasing member 16 is preferably integrally formed with the base member 11 and has a distal end with a first engagement surface 17. The biasing members 16 may curve outwardly from their base to the distal end. Alternatively, each biasing member may have a proximal portion and a distal portion where the first engagement surface 17 is located on the distal portion and the distal portion lies at an angle relative to the proximal portion. As described above the base member 11 has the security tab 18 for ensuring that the tray and diffuser do not fall completely from the base when the connector parts are released from each other. Figures 8-11 illustrate how the first and second connector parts 10,20 are locked and unlocked. As seen in Fig. 8 the second connector part 20 has been pressed down onto the first connector part 10, causing the lips 24 and teeth 14 to engage one another. The resilience of the locking tabs 13 means that as the second connector part 20 is pressed down the tabs 13 move inwards, allowing the lips 24 to push past the teeth 14. Once the lips 24 are past the teeth 14 the tabs 13 move back to their rest position in an outward direction. The second connector part 20 thus cannot be removed from the first connector part 10, as the locking teeth 14 on the tabs 13 have engaged the lips 24 and no relative movement between the two locking components 14,24 is possible. As seen in Fig. 9, whilst this interlocking of the first and second connector parts 10,20 is taking place the second engagement surfaces 26 of each projecting member 25 on the second connector part come into contact with the respective first engagement surfaces 17 of the biasing members 16 on the first connector part. This causes the biasing members 16 to be pressed outwards from the base member 11 and held in tension once the first and second connector parts 10,20 are locked together. Figure 10 shows how the first and second connector parts 10,20 are unlocked from one another. The locking tabs 13 are pressed inwards on either side of the first connector part 10. This moves the locking teeth 14 on the tabs 13 away from the lips 24 of the second connector part 20. As seen in Figure 11, as the lips 24 are released the biasing members 16 held in tension are now free to move back to their default or rest position. As they do so the first engagement surfaces 17 on each biasing member 16 press on the second engagement surfaces 26 of the projecting members 25 on the second connector part. This action of the biasing members 16 acts like a spring, pushing the second connector part 20 away from the first connector part 10 and thus ensuring that both parts 10,20 are completely separated from one another. This ensures that the base and lighting tray of the lighting apparatus are easily and completed detached from one another when installation or maintenance personnel release the connectors 8 holding the two components together, which is especially beneficial when those personnel are likely to be performing this action at a height. Figures 12-14 show views of a terminal block which may be employed with the lighting apparatus of the present invention. The terminal block 30 comprises a housing 32 and a body 50. The housing 32 is a generally U-shaped member having a base 33 and a pair of side walls 34 projecting upwards from opposing sides of the base 33. The underside of the base 33 is provided with one or more feet 35 which project downwards from the base. The or each foot 35 has a distal end 37 which has a greater diameter than that of a proximal end 36 of the foot, such that a flange 38 is formed adjacent the distal end 37. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the housing 32 has a pair of feet 35. A top side of the base 33 has at least one guide member 40 projecting upwards from the base. The guide member 40 may have a symmetrical shape, and in the illustrated embodiment this symmetry is provided by the guide member comprising a post 42 with a pair of buttresses 43 extending longitudinally from opposing sides of the post 42. Other shapes for the guide member are possible, so long as this allows the body 50 to be connected to the housing 32 in one of two orientations that are 180 degrees removed from one another. At the free, or uppermost, end of each side wall 34 is a tooth or detent 39 which projects inwardly from the side wall. The housing 32, or at least the side walls 34, are formed from a resilient material such that the side walls 34 can be flexed relative to the base 33, thereby moving the detents 39 between locked and unlocked positions. The body 50 of the terminal block 30 has four terminal ports, each of which has a pair of cable entry points 52. Each of these ports corresponds to a tab on the top of the terminal block 54. When these tabs are pressed down, a clasp inside the port is released allowing a cable to be inserted. When the tab is released and returns to an upward position, the cable is secure and cannot be removed. One or more guide apertures (not shown) are provided on an underside of the body 50, where the or each guide aperture has a shape which cooperates with a corresponding guide member 40 projecting from the housing 32, and which permits the body to be fitted within the housing in only the two 180 degree orientations described above. At each side of the body 50 is a lip 54 which extends outwards away from the body. As can be seen from Fig. 13 in particular when the body 50 is placed in the housing the lips 54 engage with the detents 39 on the housing to ensure a snap-fit between the body and housing. As described above, given the resilience of the side walls 34 of the housing 32 the side walls and detents 39 thereon can be flexed away from the locked position shown in Fig. 13 to free the body 50 from the housing. Figure 15 is a top view of the base unit 2 of the lighting apparatus, indicating a plurality of locations where one of the terminal blocks 30 can be attached to the base unit. One or more locations may be provided, but as can be seen in Fig. 15 the preferred embodiment of the base unit 2 has four such terminal locations 60. Each terminal location 60 is as shown in the detail view in Fig. 15, with the location 60 being a flat portion slightly raised from the overall plane of the base unit 2. The raised location 60 has substantially the same shape footprint as that of the housing 32. Each location 60 has a pair of slots 62 for receiving the feet 35 of the housing 32. Each slot 62 may have a teardrop shape, where a proximal end 64 of the slot is wider than a distal end 66. Figures 16-18 show the terminal block 30 secured to the base unit 2. As can be seen in Fig. 17 the feet 35 are initially inserted at the wider proximal end 64 of the respective slots 62 and then the housing is slid along the terminal location 60 until the feet reach the distal end 66 of the slots, as seen in Fig. 18. This ensures a friction fit between the terminal block 30 and the base unit 2 at the terminal location. As Figs. 17 and 18 in particular show, raising the terminal location 60 from the plane of the base unit 2 ensures that the feet 35 can be inserted in the slots 62 without standing proud of an external mounting surface 7 of the base unit, as this is the surface which may be required to lie flush with a ceiling or other mounting surface. Figures 19-22 illustrate an end cap arrangement which may be used in the lighting apparatus. Figure 19 shows the lighting apparatus in an exploded, or disassembled, state where a lighting assembly comprising the lighting tray 4 and diffuser 6 is separated from the base unit 2. A pair of first end caps 3 are provided at either end of the base unit 2, whilst a pair of second end caps 5 are provided at either end of the lighting assembly. As described above, each of the first and second end caps 3,5 has a profile derived from the profile of the base unit 2 or diffuser 6, respectively. Hence, in the illustrated embodiment the base unit 2 has a substantially U-shaped profile made up of a base and two side walls, and the first end caps 3 consequently have rectangular profiles so as to snap-fit onto the ends of the base unit. The second end caps 5 each have a hemi-spherical profile to match that of the diffuser 6. It should however be understood that the present invention is not limited to these specific profiles of lighting apparatus components and associated end caps. For example, the diffuser and second end caps may have a rectangular profile similar to that of the base unit and first end caps. Each end cap 3,5 has one or more fitting elements which extend inwardly from an outer end panel 301, 501 of the respective end caps, the or each fitting element adapted to engage with a corresponding element adjacent the end of the base unit 2 or lighting assembly 4,6 so as to attach the end caps to their respective base unit or lighting assembly. Each of the first end caps 3 also has at least one first guide surface 303 located towards an upper end of the end cap, where the guide surface lies at an acute angle to the outer end panel 301 such that it extends inwards and downwards from the first outer end panel 301. The first guide surface 303 may be a continuous or discontinuous surface. The latter may be formed from a number of separate elements, such as triangular-shaped slats 305 which extend from the outer end panel 301. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the first end caps 3 have a pair of first guide surfaces 303. Located in between the two first guide surfaces 303 is at least one engagement member which is attached to the outer end panel 301. Preferably, there are a pair of engagement members 306 facing one another, each of which is resilient and has a free end having an engagement rib 308 formed thereon. The resilience of the engagement members 306 means that the engagement ribs 308 can move between engaged and disengaged positions relative to corresponding engagement teeth on the second end caps, as described below. The first guide surfaces 303 of the first end cap 3 provide guidance for a corresponding second end cap 5 in the y-axis. This may be otherwise described as the vertical component of movement of the second end cap 5 as it is moved towards a base unit 2 and first end caps 3 which are fixed to a ceiling, for example. However, the first end cap 3 may further comprise two pairs of second guide surfaces 310. Each pair of second guide surfaces 310 lies adjacent, and substantially at right angles to, one of the first guide surfaces 303. When the first end cap 3 is viewed end on, as in Fig. 22, each pair of second guide surfaces 310 lie at opposing angles to the vertical so as to define a generally V-shaped guide profile. These pairs of second guide surfaces 310 provide guidance for a corresponding second end cap 5 in the x-axis. This may be otherwise described as the transverse or horizontal component of movement of the second end cap 5 as it is moved towards the fixed base unit and first end caps. In the preferred embodiment, the engagement members 306 are formed on the internal ends of the second guide surfaces 310. The second end cap 5 has one or more guide members 503 at a bottom end of the second outer end panel 501, where the or each guide member lies at substantially the same acute angle relative to the second outer end panel as the or each first guide surface 303 does from the first outer end panel 301 of the first end cap 3. As such, the or each guide member 503 extends inwards and downwards from the bottom end of the second outer end panel 501. There are preferably a pair of guide members 503 corresponding with a pair of first guide surfaces 303. The guide members 503 may taper towards a free end, thus having a generally V-shaped profile similar to that of the second guide surfaces 310 in the first end cap 3. Extending downwards from the bottom end of the second outer end panel 501, and located between the pair of guide members 503, are a pair of engagement teeth 505. As can be seen in the detail view of Fig. 22 these teeth 505 engage with the ribs 308 of the first end cap 3 when the two end caps 3,5 are brought together, thereby securing the two caps to one another. The first and, where present, second guide surfaces 303,310 in the first end cap 3 act to guide the guide members 503 of the second end cap 5 in both x- and y-axes so as to ensure accurate engagement of the two end caps during installation of the lighting assembly to the base unit 2. This assists an installer to ensure proper engagement of the end caps when the installer may be some distance from an end of the apparatus due to the length of the components being handled. Where both guide surfaces 303,310 are present they effectively act as funnels to ensure that the guide members 503 and second end cap 5 are guided in the x- and y-axes to the desired position where the engagement ribs 308 and teeth 505 engage one another and lock the two end caps 3,5 together. The same arrangement of first and second end caps 3,5 is provided at either end of the lighting apparatus. Figure 23 is a top view of a base unit 2 which forms part of a lighting apparatus. The base unit 2 has one or more terminal locations 60 for the attachment of terminal blocks 30, a pair of first end caps 3, a plurality of cable holders 80 and a pair of first connector parts 10 for securing the base unit to a lighting tray. A lighting tray 4 is shown in Figure 24, where the tray comprises a pair of second end caps 5 and a pair of second connector parts 20 for connection to the first connector parts 10 of the base unit 2. Also visible in Fig. 24 are a number of hardware components for a LED batten which are removably attached to the tray 4. These components comprise a microwave sensor 70, an emergency pack 72 including a battery for powering the lighting apparatus in the event of a power cut, and a driver module 74. Also present is at least one cable holder 80. Figures 25-30 show in more detail how these various components are secured to the base unit 2 and lighting tray 4. Figure 25 shows the first connector part 10 as well as a portion of the base unit 2. As can be seen the base unit 2 comprises a raised platform portion 200 which lies in a plane raised above, but substantially parallel to, a base plane of the base unit. A gap is provided on either side of the platform portion 200 between the platform portion and the base unit 2 and these gaps define a pair of elongate slots 202 which are open at one end and closed at the other. Also present on the platform portion 200 is at least one, and preferably two, abutment members 204. The or each abutment member 204 takes the form of a raised flap, having a guide surface 206 which lies at an acute angle to the base and platform planes, and an abutment surface 208 at a distal end of the guide surface 206, the abutment surface may lie in a plane which is perpendicular to the base and platform planes. Consequently, the abutment member 204 permits movement of a component onto the platform portion 200 in a first direction but then impedes or prevents movement of the component back of the platform portion in a second, opposite direction. As can also be seen in Fig. 25 the underside of the first connector part 10 has at least one engagement rib 19 at either side thereof, the ribs 19 facing one another across the first connector part. The engagement ribs 19 and slots 202 are sized for mutual cooperation, hence allowing the first connector part 10 to be slid along the slots and onto the platform portion 200. The angled guide surface 206 of each abutment member 204 allows the first connector part 10 to pass over the abutment member onto the platform portion, with the abutment surface 208 then preventing the removal of the first connector part in the opposing direction. Each slot 202 may include one or more detents or ribs 203 which partially project into the slot. These detents or ribs 203 provide a frictional force on the first connector part 10 as it is slid along the platform portion 200, thereby aiding the retention of the first connector part on the platform portion. The detents or ribs 203 may be provided on the base unit 2 or the platform portion 200 thereof. Figure 29 shows a first connector part 10 installed on the platform portion 200. Figure 26 shows the cable holder 80 as well as another portion of the base unit 2. The cable holder 80 has at least one, preferably two, resilient arm members 83 extending from opposing ends of a body 81, the or each arm member clamping or holding cables together. As can be seen the base unit 2 comprises a pair of housings 220 which project from the base unit. Each housing 220 has an open end and a closed end and defines a slot 222 between the housing and the base unit 2. Positioned between the housings 220 is an abutment member 224. The abutment member 224 is a raised flap, having a guide surface 226 which lies at an acute angle to the base plane, and an abutment surface 228 at a distal end of the guide surface where the abutment surface may lie in a plane which is perpendicular to the base plane. Consequently, the abutment member 224 permits movement of a component into the housings 220 in a first direction but then impedes or prevents movement of the component back out of the housings in a second, opposite direction. As can also be seen in Fig. 26 the underside of the cable holder body 81 has a pair of engagement ribs 82, the ribs 82 facing away from one another. The engagement ribs 82 and slots 222 are sized for mutual cooperation, hence allowing the cable holder 80 to be slid in the slots into the housings 220. The angled guide surface 226 of each abutment member 224 allows the cable holder 80 to pass over the abutment member into the housings 220, with the abutment surface 228 then preventing the removal of the cable holder in the opposing direction. Figure 28 shows a cable holder 80 installed in the housings 220, albeit viewed from the opposing side from that shown in Fig. 26. One or more of these housings 220 may also be provided on the lighting tray 4. Figure 27 shows the second connector part 20 as well as a portion of the lighting tray 4. As can be seen the tray 4 comprises a pair of raised platform portions 400, each of which lies in a plane raised above, but substantially parallel to, a tray plane of the tray 4. A gap is provided between each platform portion 400 and the tray 4 and these gaps define a pair of elongate slots 402 which are open at one end and closed at the other. Located on the tray 4 between the pair of platform portions 400 is at least one, and preferably two, first abutment members 404. The or each first abutment member 404 is a raised flap, having a guide surface 406 which lies at an acute angle to the tray and platform planes, and an abutment surface 408 at a distal end of the guide surface where the abutment surface may lie in a plane which is perpendicular to the tray and platform planes. Consequently, the abutment member 404 permits movement of a component onto the platform portions 400 in a first direction but then impedes or prevents movement of the component back off the platform portions in a second, opposite direction. At least one second abutment member 410 may be provided at the opposite ends of the platform portions 400 from the first abutment members 404. The second abutment member 410 may be a raised element which limits the extent to which the second connector part 20 can slide along the slots 402. The engagement ribs 22 of the second connector part 20 can also be seen in Fig. 27. The engagement ribs 22 and slots 402 are sized for mutual cooperation, hence allowing the second connector part 20 to be slid along the slots and onto the platform portions 400. The angled guide surface 406 of each abutment member 404 allows the second connector part 20 to pass over the abutment member onto the platform portions, with the abutment surface 408 then preventing the removal of the second connector part in the opposing direction. Each slot 402 may include one or more detents or ribs 403 which partially project into the slot. These detents or ribs 403 provide a frictional force on second connector part 20 as it is slid along the platform portions 400, thereby aiding the retention of the second connector part on the platform portions. The detents or ribs 403 may be provided on the tray 4 or the platform portions 400 thereof. Figure 30 shows a second connector part 20 installed on the platform portions 400. Figures 31-33 show a complete lighting apparatus in the form of a LED batten. The apparatus comprises a base unit 2 to which a lighting tray 4 and diffuser 6 are attached. Referring to Figures 32 and 33 in particular each of the components of the apparatus can be clearly seen. The base unit 2 shown in Figure 32 is a generally U-shaped member having a web portion connecting a pair of side walls. A pair of first end caps 3 are provided at either end of the base unit 2. A plurality of cable holders 80 are provided on the base unit, with their attachment the same as that described in reference to Figs. 26 and 28. A terminal block 30 is also provided, as described in reference to Figs. 12-18, along with a pair of first connector parts 10 as shown in Figs. 7, 25 and 29. As seen in Fig. 33, along with the microwave sensor 70, emergency pack 72 and driver 74 the lighting tray 4 also holds a LED board 78 containing a plurality of LEDs. A pair of second end caps 5 secure the tray 4 and diffuser 6 together so as to enclose the LED board 78. A pair of second connector parts 20 are provided so as to connect the tray / diffuser combination 4,6 to the base unit 2, the complete connectors 8 being of the kind shown in Figs. 3-11. The present invention provides a lighting assembly with a number of features which are advantageous over those in existing assemblies. The connectors for example are designed to spring apart from one another upon release, thereby ensuring the full disconnection of the connectors and the lighting tray from the base unit. This makes work easier and safer for personnel working on these assemblies at height. Similarly, the guide members and surfaces of the first and second end caps used in the present invention ensure that the ends of the tray and base unit are aligned and correctly engaged during installation. Providing terminal blocks and other hardware such as cable holders and connectors which can be simply slid into place on a base unit avoids the need to mechanical fixtures and associated tools. Furthermore, the terminal blocks can be arranged to face in either of two opposing orientations and at a number of discrete locations, 5 making wiring work easier and more flexible for an installer. Modifications and improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for connecting a base and a lighting assembly of a light fitting, the apparatus comprising:a first connector comprising:a first body having a first side connectable to the base; andat least one resilient locking tab extending from a second side of the first body, the at least one locking tab having at least one locking tooth and being moveable between locked and unlocked positions and biased towards the locked position; anda second connector comprising:a second body having a first side connectable to the lighting assembly; andat least one locking detent formed on a second side of the second body;wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together the at least one locking tooth and locking detent engage one another to lock the two connectors together, and when the at least one locking tab is moved to the unlocked position the connectors are released from one another;and wherein the apparatus further comprises:at least one resilient biasing member extending from the second side of the first body, the at least one biasing member having a distal end with a first engagement surface;at least one projection extending from the second side of the second body, each projection having a second engagement surface;wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together the first and second engagement surfaces contact one another and press the at least one biasing member away from the first body, and when the at least one locking tab is moved to the unlocked position to release the connectors from one another the at least one biasing member pushes the second connector away from the first connector.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first connector comprises first and second resilient locking tabs extending from a second side of the first body, each locking tab having at least one locking tooth; and the second connector comprises a corresponding pair of locking detents formed on a second side ofthe second body.

3. The apparatus of either preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises:at least one pair of resilient biasing members extending from the second side of the first body such that the biasing members face each other,each biasing member having a distal end with a first engagement surface; andat least one corresponding pair of projections extending from the second side of the second body, each projection having a second engagement surface;wherein when the first and second connectors are brought together20 05 252025the first and second engagement surfaces contact one another and press the at least one pair of biasing members away from one another.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first connector comprises two pairs ofbiasing members extending from the second side of the first body such thateach pair of biasing members faces each other; and the second connector comprises two pairs of projections extending from the second side of the second body.

5. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first side of the firstconnector comprises:at least one first rib engageable with a corresponding portion of the base such that in use a sliding connection is made between the first connector and base.

306. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first side of the second connector comprises:at least one second rib engageable with a corresponding portion of the lighting apparatus such that in use a sliding connection is made between35the second connector and lighting apparatus.

7. A light fitting comprising:a base unit;a lighting assembly; and5 an apparatus according to any preceding claim connecting the base and the light fitting.LDCMApplication No: GB2319747.8Claims searched: 1-8Examiner: Dr Edmund HazellDate of search: 17 June 2024Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X 1, 2 and 6-8 EP 2827053 Al (RIDI LEUCHTEN GMBH) see figures noting first connector 29 with locking tabs 30, teeth 33, first ribs 31 for engaging portions 32 of base 2, second connector 3 with end formations 41 defining detents, second ribs 27 for engaging edge portions of lighting apparatus 19. X 1, 2 and 6-8 CN 207065375 U (XIAMEN YANKON ENERGETIC LIGHTING CO LTD) see figures noting base 2, lighting assembly 1, first connector 41 comprising first body 44 and resilient locking tabs 46 with teeth 43, second connector 31 comprising second body 35 and locking detent 33. X 1, 2 and 6-8 JP 2016039033 A (NEC LIGHTING LTD) see figures noting first connector including first side 45 connectable to base 1 and locking tabs 40,50 with teeth 41,51, and second connector including second body 60,70, locking detents 61,71, ribs 62,72 for sliding engagement with lighting apparatus. X 1, 2 and 6-8 US 2011 / 0297971 Al (SHIMIZU et al.) see particularly figures 1, 2 and 9A to 11 noting base 11, first connector 12 including resilient locking tabs 12b with teeth 12a, second connector 44 including locking detents 45 engageable with the locking teeth. X 1, 2 and 6-8 CN 106439645 B (XIAMEN PVTECH CO LTD) see figures noting base 10, lighting assembly 40, first connector 30 comprising resilient locking tabs with clip portions 32 defining locking teeth, second connector 50 comprising detent defined below raised section 52. X 1, 2 and 6-8 US 2016 / 0040839 Al (DRISCOLL) see particularly figures and description paragraphs [0043] to [0044] noting body 100, lighting assembly 300, first connector 158 with locking tabs and teeth defining notches 159, and second connector 358 with detents defined by protrusions 359.Categories:____________________________________X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive A stepY Document indicating lack of inventive step if P combined with one or more other documents ofDocument indicating technological background and / or state of the art.Document published on or after the declared priority date but before the filing date of this invention.same category.& Member of the same patent familyE Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:International Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From F21S 0004 / 28 01 / 01 / 2016 F21V 0017 / 16 01 / 01 / 2006 F21V 0017 / 18 01 / 01 / 2006 F21V 0023 / 06 01 / 01 / 2006 F21S 0009 / 02 01 / 01 / 2006 F21Y 0103 / 10 01 / 01 / 2016 F21Y 0115 / 10 01 / 01 / 2016Application No: GB2319747.8Examiner: Dr Edmund HazellClaims searched: 9-14Date of search: 8 May 2025Patents Act 1977Further Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance v A 9-14 US 3917202 A (REINWALL et al.) see figures noting housing 10 including underside with connector 22, topside with guide members 50,51, locking elements 39,40, and body 11 with terminal ports and guide apertures 52,53. X 9-14 CN 106575840 B (EATON ELECTRICAL IP GMBH &) see figures noting housing 33 including underside, topside with guide members (walls between receiving slots 50, fig 5), locking elements 34, and body 32 including guide apertures between terminal ports 24. X 9-14 CN 212011509 U (HUIZHOU FENGZHENGTONG IND CO LTD) see figures noting housing 1 including underside (far side as drawn), topside with guide member 8 and locking elements 3, and body 2 with terminal ports 15 and guide aperture. v A 9 and 11- 14 CN 213584390 U (XIAMEN GHGM IND TRADE CO LTD) see figures noting housing 13 with underside, topside with guide members (near side as drawn fig 3), locking elements 15, and body 11+12 including terminal ports and guide apertures. X 9 and 12- 14 CN 214706484 U (CIXI DEFA ELECTRONIC TECH CO LTD) see figures noting housing 10 with underside 13, topside with guide member t2, locking element tl, and body 20 with terminal ports and guide aperture 22.Categories:X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if P Document published on or after the declared priority date but combined with one or more other documents of same category. before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:Search of GB, EP, WO &US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX :Worldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC____________F21V; H01R_________________________________________________The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search report SEARCH-PATENTInternational Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From F21S 0004 / 28 01 / 01 / 2016 F21K 0009 / 27 01 / 01 / 2016 F21S 0008 / 00 01 / 01 / 2006 F21V 0017 / 16 01 / 01 / 2006 F21V 0017 / 18 01 / 01 / 2006 F21V 0023 / 06 01 / 01 / 2006 F21S 0009 / 02 01 / 01 / 2006 F21Y 0103 / 10 01 / 01 / 2016 F21Y 0115 / 10 01 / 01 / 2016

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