Lighting device

Abstract

The objective of this disclosure is to facilitate the realization of desired optical properties. [Solution] The cover 5 comprises a cover body 50 and an optical panel 56. The cover body 50 has a top surface portion 511 and an inner cover portion 512. The top surface portion 511 is flat, light-transmitting, and faces the support member 3 that supports the light source. The inner cover portion 512 has light-transmitting and light-diffusing properties and is positioned between the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3. The optical panel 56 is positioned between the top surface portion 511 and the inner cover portion 512. The inner cover portion 512 has a protrusion 5122 on the opposing surface 5121 facing the top surface portion 511 that projects toward the top surface portion 511.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lighting device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses the following regarding a lighting fixture. The light source unit includes a long substrate, a plurality of light sources (LEDs) mounted on the substrate along the longitudinal direction of the substrate, a long light diffusing portion facing the plurality of light sources and diffusing the light emitted from the plurality of light sources, a long light transmitting portion facing the plurality of light sources through the light diffusing portion and transmitting the light diffused by the light diffusing portion, and a holding portion (cover portion) for holding the light transmitting portion. The holding portion includes a pair of side wall portions that hold the light transmitting portion in a state where the optical axes of the plurality of light sources are sandwiched from each other in the short side direction of the substrate. Each of the pair of side wall portions has a constricted portion protruding toward the optical axis.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] According to the disclosure of Patent Document 1, the way light travels is adjusted by two types of optical elements, namely, a light diffusing portion and a light transmitting portion. However, if the positional relationship between the light diffusing portion and the light transmitting portion deviates significantly from the designed state, it may be difficult to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to make it easier to achieve desired optical characteristics.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a long light source, a support member that is long in the longitudinal direction of the light source and supports the light source, and a cover that is long in the longitudinal direction and is supported by the support member so as to cover the light source. The cover comprises a cover body and an optical panel. The cover body has a top surface portion, an inner cover portion, and two side cover portions. The top surface portion is flat, light-transmitting, and faces the support member at a distance. The inner cover portion has light-transmitting and light-diffusing properties, is positioned between the top surface portion and the support member, and faces both the top surface portion and the support member at a distance. Each of the two side cover portions has a side plate portion extending from the short edge of the top surface portion toward the support member, and a connecting portion that is closer to the support member than the side plate portion and is connected to the support member. The aforementioned short direction is a direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the top surface portion and the support member face each other and the aforementioned long direction. The optical panel is positioned between the top surface portion and the inner cover portion. The inner cover portion has a protrusion on the surface facing the top surface portion that projects toward the top surface portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, there is an advantage in that it becomes easier to achieve the desired optical properties. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a lighting fixture according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the same lighting fixture and the light source unit according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of the light source unit and the fixture body of the lighting fixture shown above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a partially broken perspective view of the fixture body of the same lighting fixture, seen from below. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the support member and light source module shown above, seen from below. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a side view of the same lighting fixture, with one cover end and one end plate omitted. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a plan view of the main components of the light source unit shown above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a plan view of the main components of the light source unit shown above. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the same lighting fixture, with some parts omitted. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the same lighting fixture, with some parts omitted. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a circuit block diagram of the same light source unit. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an exploded side view of the same lighting fixture, with one cover end and one end plate omitted. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the cover of the same lighting fixture. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side view of the same fixture body and light source unit, with one cover end and one end plate omitted. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a side view of the same lighting fixture in a temporarily suspended state, with one cover end and one end plate omitted. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a plan view showing the fixture bodies of the above-mentioned lighting fixtures arranged in series during installation. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a side view of the main components of the light source unit shown above, with the power supply unit and power connector not connected. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the cover of the lighting fixture in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a lighting fixture according to modification 3 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view of the lighting fixture of modified example 3 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a perspective view of the cover end of the light source unit according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 22]Figure 22 is a side view of the cover end described above. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a main part of the cover included in the light source unit described above. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the cover described above. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a side view of the light source unit described above with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a side view of a main part of the light source unit described above with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a perspective view of the light source unit described above with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a side view of a main part of the light source unit described above with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a plan view of a main part of the cover included in the light source unit described above. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a side view of the cover end included in the light source unit of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a side view of the light source unit of Modification 2 of Embodiment 2 with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a side view of the cover end included in the light source unit of Modification 3 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a side view of the light source unit of Modification 4 of Embodiment 2 with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a side view of the light source unit of Modification 5 of Embodiment 2 with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a side view of a main part of the light source unit of Modification 6 of Embodiment 2 with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 36]Figure 36 is a side view of the cover end of the light source unit of the modified example 7 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is a side view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a side view of the cover end of the light source unit of the modified example 8 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a side view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 40] Figure 40 is a side view of the cover end of the light source unit in the modified example 9 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is a side view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 42] Figure 42 is a side view of the cover end of the light source unit of the modified example 10 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 43] Figure 43 is a side view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover body attached to the cover end. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a perspective view of the cover end of the light source unit in the modified example 11 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 45] Figure 45 is a perspective view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover attached to the support member. [Figure 46] Figure 46 is a perspective view of the cover end of the light source unit in the modified example 12 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 47] Figure 47 is a perspective view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover attached to the support member. [Figure 48] Figure 48 is a perspective view of the cover end of the light source unit in the modified example 13 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 49] Figure 49 is a perspective view of the main part of the same light source unit with the cover attached to the support member. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, a lighting device according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the configuration described in the following embodiments is merely one example of this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of this disclosure can be achieved.

[0010] [Summary of the Embodiment] The lighting device (light source unit A1) of the embodiment comprises a long light source (light source module 1), a support member 3 that is long in the first direction D1 which is the longitudinal direction of the light source and supports the light source, and a cover 5 that is long in the longitudinal direction and is supported by the support member 3 so as to cover the light source. The cover 5 comprises a cover body 50 and an optical panel 56. The cover body 50 has a top surface portion 511, an inner cover portion 512, and two side cover portions 52. The top surface portion 511 is flat, light-transmitting, and faces the support member 3 at a distance. The inner cover portion 512 has light-transmitting and light-diffusing properties, is positioned between the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3, and faces both the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3 at a distance. Each of the two side cover portions 52 has a side plate portion 53 extending from the short edge of the top surface portion 511 toward the support member 3, and a connecting portion 58 that is closer to the support member 3 than the side plate portion 53 and is connected to the support member 3. The short direction is the direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3 face each other and the longitudinal direction. The optical panel 56 is positioned between the top surface portion 511 and the inner cover portion 512. The inner cover portion 512 has a protrusion 5122 on the opposing surface 5121 facing the top surface portion 511 that projects toward the top surface portion 511.

[0011] According to the lighting device of this embodiment, the optical panel 56 can be easily positioned in the intended location within the housing space 572 between the top surface portion 511 and the inner cover portion 512, making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0012] [Embodiment 1] (1)Details The lighting device of Embodiment 1 will now be described. In the following description, the side of the lighting device with respect to the top surface 511 that faces the support member 3 will be defined as "up," and the side of the lighting device with respect to the top surface 511 that faces the support member 3 will be defined as "down." The direction in which the top surface 511 and the support member 3 face each other will also be referred to as the up-down direction. Unless otherwise specified, the longitudinal direction is the longitudinal direction of the light source (light source module 1). Unless otherwise specified, the short-side direction is the direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the top surface 511 and the support member 3 face each other (up-down direction) and the longitudinal direction.

[0013] (1-1) Lighting fixtures First, let me explain lighting fixture B1.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the lighting fixture B1 comprises a lighting device according to Embodiment 1, namely a light source unit A1 (hereinafter abbreviated as light source unit A1) and a fixture body 6 that supports the light source unit A1. The light source unit A1 is detachably attached to the fixture body 6 which is directly attached to the ceiling. However, the fixture body 6 may be embedded in the ceiling as described later. Alternatively, the fixture body 6 may be directly attached to the wall or embedded in the wall.

[0015] The main body of the device 6 comprises a long, box-shaped housing section 60 with an open bottom, and a pair of end plates 62 provided at both ends of the housing section 60 in the longitudinal direction (see Figures 2 and 3). The housing section 60 is formed by punching and bending a metal plate.

[0016] The fixture body 6 is installed on the ceiling S1 by inserting suspension bolts 90 through at least two of the multiple mounting holes 63 provided on the bottom (top) surface of the housing 60, and tightening nuts 91 onto these suspension bolts 90 (see Figure 2). In addition, a power cable 92 is inserted through one of the multiple power supply holes 64 provided on the bottom surface of the housing 60. However, if multiple lighting fixtures B1 are installed, another power cable for daisy-chaining may be inserted through a different power supply hole 64. Furthermore, as will be described later, another power cable for daisy-chaining may be inserted through a hole formed by cutting out a knockout portion 620 (see Figure 2) provided on the end plate 62.

[0017] A terminal block 65 is attached to the bottom of the housing 60. The terminal block 65 is electrically connected to the power line 93. A power connector 94 is provided at the end of the power line 93.

[0018] The power cable 92 inserted through the power hole 64 of the fixture body 6 is electrically connected to the terminal block 65, and via the terminal block 65, power line 93, and power connector 94, it is electrically connected to the power unit 2 of the light source unit A1.

[0019] The housing section 60 has two first hooking fittings 603 (first hooked parts) and two second hooking fittings 601 (second hooked parts) each having a hooking hole 600, located near both ends in its longitudinal direction (see Figures 2 and 4). The first hooking fittings 603 are provided on the side wall of one end of the housing section 60 in the short direction. The second hooking fittings 601 are positioned on the upper part of the housing section 60 in the short direction, opposite to the first hooking fittings 603 (see Figures 2 and 4). In addition, instead of providing the first hooking fittings 603 in the main body of the device 6, the hooking holes 600 may be provided on the side wall of one end of the housing section 60 in the short direction.

[0020] (1-2) Light source unit As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the light source unit A1 comprises a light source (light source module 1), a support member 3, a cover 5, a first hooking member 37, and a second hooking member 38. The light source unit A1 further comprises a power supply unit 2 and a communication unit 4 (see Figure 11).

[0021] (1-2-1) Light source The light source (light source module 1) has two substrates 11 and a plurality of light-emitting elements 10 mounted on the surface (bottom surface) of each substrate 11. The light-emitting elements 10 are, for example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The LEDs are, for example, packaged white LEDs for illumination. However, the light-emitting elements are not limited to LEDs and may also be organic electroluminescent elements or semiconductor laser elements, etc.

[0022] Each substrate 11 is formed in a long rectangular shape. Multiple light-emitting elements 10 are mounted in a single row at equal intervals along the longitudinal direction of each substrate 11, in the center of the short side of the surface (bottom surface) of each substrate 11 (see Figure 2). The numerous light-emitting elements 10 are electrically connected in series or series-parallel by printed wiring formed on the surface of each substrate 11. In addition, two connectors 12 are mounted on one end of the longitudinal direction of the surface (bottom surface) of each substrate 11 (see Figure 5). A male connector 121 is mounted as the connector 12 on one substrate 11, and a female connector 122 is mounted as the connector 12 on the other substrate 11. The connection between the male connector 121 and the female connector 122 connects the two substrates 11, and the printed wiring formed on the surfaces of each substrate 11 is electrically connected. The positions of the connectors 12 and the positions of each light-emitting element 10 on the substrate 11 are offset in the longitudinal direction. In other words, when viewed in the short direction, the position of the connector 12 and the position of each light-emitting element 10 do not overlap.

[0023] The light source module 1 is attached to the first surface 30A (bottom surface) of the support member 3.

[0024] (1-2-2) Support member 3 The support member 3 is formed from a metal plate in a long, rectangular shape (see Figures 2 and 6). The support member 3 has a flat bottom plate 30 that is long in the longitudinal direction and has thickness in the vertical direction, and support parts (support pieces 31) that extend upward from each of the edges on both sides of the bottom plate 30 in the short direction. The support pieces 31 are flat plates that are long in the longitudinal direction and have thickness in the short direction. The light source module 1 is attached to the first surface 30A (bottom surface) of the bottom plate 30 by a plurality of claws 301 that are cut out from the bottom plate 30 (see Figure 5). The width of the bottom plate 30 in the short direction is greater than the width of the substrate 11 in the short direction (see Figure 2). However, the light source module 1 may also be attached to the bottom plate 30 by sliding the substrate 11 along the longitudinal direction of the bottom plate 30 and hooking it onto the plurality of claws 301, and then restricting the movement of the substrate 11 with retaining pieces provided on the bottom plate 30. Alternatively, mounting methods such as attaching the circuit board 11 by hooking protrusions other than the claws 301 onto the edges of the circuit board 11, or attaching the circuit board 11 to the bottom plate 30 with adhesive, may be used.

[0025] Furthermore, the base plate 30 has projections 34 at both ends in its short direction (see Figure 6). Each projection 34 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction of the base plate 30 and protrudes downward from the first surface 30A of the base plate 30. The pair of support pieces 31 protrude upward from the outer ends of the projections 34.

[0026] The support member 3 is provided with a pair of first hooking members 37 that protrude outwards from one end in the short direction near both ends in the longitudinal direction (see Figures 2 and 3). Furthermore, the support member 3 is provided with a pair of second hooking members 38 at the other end in the short direction near both ends in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 3). The pair of first hooking members 37 and the pair of second hooking members 38 play a role in holding the light source unit A1 to the fixture body 6, as will be described later.

[0027] (1-2-3) First hooking member The first hooking member 37 has a main piece 370 formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate, a rising piece 371 bent upward from one end edge in the longitudinal direction of the main piece 370, and a hooking piece 372 projecting in the opposite direction from the main piece 370 from the tip (upper end) of the rising piece 371 (see Figures 6 to 8). The tip of the hooking piece 372 is bent in a V shape. The main piece 370, the rising piece 371, and the hooking piece 372 are integrally formed by bending a single metal plate.

[0028] The first hooking member 37 is attached to the support member 3 via a mounting bracket 39. The mounting bracket 39 has a first mounting portion 391, a second mounting portion 392, and a temporary holding portion 393 (see Figures 6 to 8).

[0029] The first mounting section 391 includes a rectangular first mounting plate 3910, a veneer 3911 rising from one end edge of the first mounting plate 3910 in the short direction, and four support pieces 3912 projecting upward from the other end of the first mounting plate 3910 in the short direction (see Figures 6 to 8). One L-shaped support projection 3913 protrudes from each end in the width direction at the tip of the veneer 3911.

[0030] Each of the four support pieces 3912 is formed in an L-shape. The four support pieces 3912 are arranged in two rows with a gap between them, along the short and long directions of the first mounting plate 3910. However, two support pieces 3912 arranged along the long direction of the first mounting plate 3910 are positioned so that their ends are close to each other.

[0031] The first hooking member 37 has its main piece 370 inserted into the space between the four support pieces 3912 and the first mounting plate 3910, and its hooking piece 372 inserted into the space between the tip of the veneer 3911 and the pair of support projections 3913. In other words, the first hooking member 37 is attached to the first mounting portion 391 by the four support pieces 3912 and the pair of support projections 3913 so that it can slide along the short side of the first mounting plate 3910 (the short side of the bottom plate 30) (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0032] The second mounting portion 392 includes a flat second mounting plate 3920 connected to one end edge of the first mounting plate 3910 in the short direction, and a retaining piece 3921 projecting upward from the second mounting plate 3920 (see Figures 7 and 8). The retaining piece 3921 is formed in an inverted U shape.

[0033] The temporary holding portion 393 is formed in a plate shape and protrudes upward from one end of the second mounting plate 3920 in the longitudinal direction (the longitudinal direction of the bottom plate 30). The temporary holding portion 393 is formed integrally with the second mounting portion 392.

[0034] A recess 3930 is formed in the upper end portion of the temporary holding portion 393. The recess 3930 is formed such that one wall is aligned in the vertical direction, and the opposite wall is inclined upward away from the wall on the other side (see Figure 6). In addition, the area adjacent to the recess 3930 in the upper end portion of the temporary holding portion 393 is cut out in an L-shape.

[0035] The mounting bracket 39 is screwed to the second surface (the surface opposite to the first surface 30A (the top surface)) of the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3. However, the mounting bracket 39 may be fixed to the bottom plate 30 by methods other than screwing, such as crimping, welding, or adhesive.

[0036] (1-2-4) Second hooking member The second hooking member 38 has a coil portion 380 corresponding to a fixing portion and an arm portion 381 that protrudes from the coil portion 380 and hooks onto the fixture body 6 (second hooking fitting 601) (see Figures 7 and 8). The arm portion 381 is formed by extending one of the two winding ends of the coil portion 380. In the following description, the other winding end of the coil portion 380 will be referred to as the winding end portion 382. The winding end portion 382 is formed to be considerably shorter than the arm portion 381 (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0037] The arm portion 381 has a bent portion 383 that bends downward along the height direction, approaching the support member 3. The angle of the bend of the bent portion 383 is obtuse. The tip of the arm portion 381 is bent into an L shape (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0038] The second hooking member 38 is attached to the support member 3 via the mounting bracket 39. That is, the second hooking member 38 is attached to the second mounting portion 392 by hooking the coil portion 380 onto the retaining piece 3921 of the second mounting portion 392 (see Figures 6 to 8). When attached to the second mounting portion 392, the arm portion 381 is positioned to go over the temporary holding portion 393.

[0039] The tip of the winding end 382 is bent at approximately a right angle. The tip of the winding end 382 is then inserted through a groove 3922 provided in the second mounting plate 3920 and into a through hole provided in the bottom plate 30. This restricts the axial rotation of the coil portion 380.

[0040] (1-2-5) Power supply unit The power supply unit 2 includes a power supply device 20 and a power supply case 21 that houses the power supply device 20 (see Figure 9).

[0041] The power supply unit 20 includes a printed circuit board 22 on which wiring conductors are printed on a rectangular insulating substrate, and a plurality of circuit components (not shown) mounted on both the front and back surfaces of the printed circuit board 22. In other words, the power supply unit 20 is composed of printed circuits.

[0042] Figure 11 shows the circuit configuration of the power supply unit 20. The power supply unit 20 includes a power conversion circuit 200, a constant current circuit 201, a control circuit 202, and the like.

[0043] The power conversion circuit 200 includes, for example, a rectifier circuit such as a diode bridge, a boost chopper circuit (power factor correction circuit), and the like. The power conversion circuit 200 converts AC power supplied from an external power supply P1 through a power connector 23 into DC power. The external power supply P1 is, for example, a commercial power grid that supplies AC voltage and AC current with an effective value of 100V or 200V. However, the power conversion circuit 200 may include a switching power supply circuit with a power factor correction function, such as a buck chopper circuit, a buck-boost chopper circuit, or a flyback converter, instead of a boost chopper circuit.

[0044] The constant current circuit 201 includes, for example, a buck converter. The constant current circuit 201 steps down the DC voltage output from the power conversion circuit 200 and applies it to the light source module 1, and also adjusts the DC current flowing through the light source module 1. However, the constant current circuit 201 may include various chopper circuits, series regulators, etc., instead of the buck converter.

[0045] The control circuit 202 includes, for example, a microcontroller. The control circuit 202 controls the power conversion circuit 200 to maintain its output voltage at a constant DC voltage. Furthermore, the control circuit 202 controls the step-down chopper circuit of the constant current circuit 201 to match the DC current supplied from the constant current circuit 201 to the light source module 1 to a target value. As will be described later, the control circuit 202 changes the target value of the DC current supplied to the light source module 1 in accordance with the dimming signal received from the communication unit 4.

[0046] Here, the power connector 23 is mounted on one end of the printed circuit board 22 in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 9). In Embodiment 1, the power connector 23 is a connector to which the power connector 94 is inserted and removed, but instead of the power connector 23, a terminal block to which the conductors of the electric wire are electrically connected may also be used. Alternatively, instead of the power connector 23, lead wires may be drawn out from the power supply unit 20 and soldered to the conductors of the power wire 93. Note that the configuration of the power connector 23 also includes configurations other than those described above. However, in Figure 9, the circuit components mounted on the front (bottom) and back (top) surfaces of the printed circuit board 22 are not shown.

[0047] The power supply case 21 has a rectangular bottom wall 210 and a pair of first side walls 211 that protrude downward along the short direction of the bottom wall 210 from both ends in the longitudinal direction of the bottom wall 210. The power supply case 21 also has a pair of second side walls 212 that protrude downward along the longitudinal direction of the bottom wall 210 from both ends in the short direction of the bottom wall 210 (see Figures 6 and 9). In other words, the power supply case 21 is formed in the shape of a long box with an opening at the front (downward) of the bottom wall 210. The socket for the power connector 23 protrudes out of the power supply case 21 through a window hole provided in one of the first side walls 211 (see Figures 6 and 9).

[0048] The power supply unit 2 is attached to the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3 such that the opening of the power supply case 21 faces the second surface of the bottom plate 30, which is opposite to the first surface 30A of the bottom plate 30 (see Figures 6 and 9). The power supply case 21 is attached to the bottom plate 30 by appropriate methods such as screwing, crimping, or adhesive.

[0049] (1-2-6) Communication Unit The communication unit 4 includes a communication circuit section 40 and a communication connector 47 (see Figure 11). The communication circuit section 40 receives control signals transmitted via signal lines (not shown). The control signals are signals that transmit control information such as on / off instructions and dimming levels. The communication circuit section 40 is communicably connected to the control circuit 202 of the power supply unit 20 via the communication connector 47. The communication circuit section 40 transmits the control information contained in the received control signals to the control circuit 202 via the communication connector 47. The control circuit 202 performs actions such as turning on / off and changing the dimming level of the light source module 1 according to the control information received from the communication circuit section 40. However, the communication circuit section 40 may be configured to perform wireless communication using infrared or radio waves as the communication medium instead of wired communication.

[0050] The communication unit 4 is mounted in an appropriate location. For example, the communication unit 4 is mounted on the first side wall 211 of the power supply case 21 (the first side wall 211 opposite to the power connector 23), or on a part other than the power supply case 21, for example, on the support member 3.

[0051] (1-2-7) Cover The cover 5 comprises a cover body 50, an optical panel 56, and a cover end 54.

[0052] The cover body 50 has a top surface portion 511, an inner cover portion 512, and two side cover portions 52. Each side cover portion 52 has a side plate portion 53, a connecting portion 58, and an extension portion 55.

[0053] The top surface 511 is a flat, plate-like shape that is elongated in the longitudinal direction and has thickness in the vertical direction. The top surface 511 is transparent.

[0054] The side plate portions 53 are plate-shaped, elongated in the longitudinal direction and thickened in the transverse direction. Each side plate portion 53 extends upward from the transverse edge of the top surface portion 511. That is, the side plate portions 53 extend upward from each of the two transverse edges of the top surface portion 511. The two side plate portions 53 face each other in the transverse direction. Each side plate portion 53 is milky white and has light-diffusing properties.

[0055] Each side plate portion 53 has a first side plate portion 531 extending upward from the short edge of the top surface portion 511, and a second side plate portion 532 extending upward from the upper end of the first side plate portion 531. The vertical dimension of the first side plate portion 531 is smaller than the vertical dimension of the second side plate portion 532.

[0056] The first side plate portion 531 is flat, elongated in the longitudinal direction and thickened in the transverse direction. The first side plate portion 531 extends directly upward from the edge of the top surface portion 511 and is not inclined in the transverse direction. Therefore, the two first side plate portions 531 are parallel, and the distance between the two first side plate portions 531 does not change vertically. Note that "parallel" may include cases where they are not perfectly parallel but can be considered substantially parallel.

[0057] The second side plate portion 532 is flat, elongated in the longitudinal direction and thickened in the transverse direction. The second side plate portion 532 extends diagonally upward and outward from the upper end of the first side plate portion 531. That is, the second side plate portion 532 is inclined outward in the transverse direction as it goes upward, and therefore the distance between the two second side plate portions 532 increases as it goes upward.

[0058] The inner cover portion 512 is flat, elongated in the longitudinal direction and thick in the vertical direction. The inner cover portion 512 is milky white and light-diffusing. The inner cover portion 512 is positioned above the top surface portion 511, facing the top surface portion 511 vertically. The inner cover portion 512 and the top surface portion 511 are parallel. Parallelism may include cases where they are not perfectly parallel but can be considered substantially parallel. The dimensions of the inner cover portion 512 in the short direction are the same as the dimensions of the top surface portion 511 in the short direction. Identical dimensions may include cases where they are not perfectly identical but can be considered substantially identical. The inner cover portion 512 is stretched between the two side plate portions 53. More specifically, the inner cover portion 512 spans between the position where the first side plate portion 531 and the second side plate portion 532 connect on one side plate portion 53 (i.e., the upper end of the first side plate portion 531 and the lower end of the second side plate portion 532) and the position where the first side plate portion 531 and the second side plate portion 532 connect on the other side plate portion 53 (i.e., the upper end of the first side plate portion 531 and the lower end of the second side plate portion 532). Therefore, the first side plate portion 531 is the portion of the side plate portion 53 that extends from the short-side edge of the top surface portion 511 to the short-side edge of the inner cover portion 512, and the second side plate portion 532 is the portion of the side plate portion 53 that extends upward from the short-side edge of the inner cover portion 512.

[0059] The inner cover portion 512 has a protrusion 5122 on the opposing surface 5121 that faces the top surface portion 511 (see Figure 6). The protrusion 5122 projects toward the top surface portion 511.

[0060] The protrusion 5122 is provided at the short-side end of the opposing surface 5121. The protrusion 5122 is connected to the upper end of the first side plate portion 531 of the side plate portion 53. Because the protrusion 5122 is provided at the short-side end of the opposing surface 5121 and is in contact with (connected to) the side plate portion 53, downward deflection of the inner cover portion 512 due to gravity, in particular downward deflection of the central portion of the inner cover portion 512 in the short-side direction, can be suppressed. In other words, the protrusion 5122 functions as a deflection reducing portion that reduces the deflection of the inner cover portion 512.

[0061] The protrusion 5122 is rectangular in shape when viewed in the longitudinal direction. The protrusion 5122 extends in the longitudinal direction and is provided along the entire length of the inner cover portion 512 in the longitudinal direction (see Figures 9, 10, and 13). This can further suppress the downward deflection of the inner cover portion 512.

[0062] In Embodiment 1, the inner cover portion 512 has two protrusions 5122 on the opposing surface 5121 (see Figure 6). The two protrusions 5122 are provided at both ends in the short direction of the opposing surface 5121. The two protrusions 5122 are connected to the upper ends of the first side plate portion 531 of each of the two side plate portions 53. By having protrusions 5122 at both ends of the opposing surface 5121, the downward deflection of the inner cover portion 512 can be further suppressed.

[0063] The cover body 50 does not have a member that spans between the two side cover portions 52 above the inner cover portion 512. In Embodiment 1, only the top surface portion 511 and the inner cover portion 512 span between the two side cover portions 52.

[0064] Between the top surface 511 and the inner cover 512, a storage space 572 is formed, enclosed by the top surface 511, the inner cover 512, and the two first side plate sections 531. The storage space 572 is long in the longitudinal direction and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, with its short-side dimension being longer than its vertical dimension. In the cover body 50, both ends of the storage space 572 in the longitudinal direction are open.

[0065] The extension portion 55 is flat, elongated in the longitudinal direction and having thickness in the vertical direction. Each of the two extension portions 55 extends inward in the short direction from the upper end of the side plate portion 53 (the upper end of the second side plate portion 532). That is, the extension portion 55 extends inward in the short direction from the upper end of each side plate portion 53. There is a gap between the two extension portions 55 in the short direction.

[0066] Each extension 55 has a main piece 550, a connecting piece 551, and a side piece 552 (see Figure 6).

[0067] The connecting piece 551 is a long, flat plate in the longitudinal direction. The connecting piece 551 extends inward in the short direction from the upper end of the side plate portion 53 (the upper end of the second side plate portion 532).

[0068] The main piece 550 is a long, flat plate in the longitudinal direction. The main piece 550 has a base portion 554 that extends diagonally downward inward from the inner edge in the short direction of the connecting piece 551, and a reflector portion 553 that extends diagonally upward inward from the inner edge in the short direction of the base portion 554. As a result, the main piece 550 has a V-shape when viewed in the longitudinal direction.

[0069] The side piece 552 is a long, flat plate in the longitudinal direction. The side piece 552 extends upward from the inner edge of the main piece 550 in the short direction.

[0070] Each connecting portion 58 has a projection 581 and a hook portion 582.

[0071] The projection 581 is a long, flat plate in the longitudinal direction. Each projection 581 extends upward from the inner edge in the short direction of the connecting piece 551 of the extension 55. That is, the projection 581 extends upward from the inner edge in the short direction of each of the two connecting pieces 551.

[0072] The hook portion 582 is a long, flat plate in the longitudinal direction. Each hook portion 582 extends diagonally downward and inward from the upper edge of the projection 581. That is, each hook portion 582 extends diagonally downward and inward from the upper edge of the projection 581.

[0073] In Embodiment 1, the connecting portion 58 and the extension portion 55 are milky white and have light-diffusing properties.

[0074] The cover body 50 is made from a molding material containing a light-transmitting thermoplastic resin, such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin. In Embodiment 1, the inner cover portion 512, the side plate portion 53, the joint portion 58, and the extension portion 55 are milky white and have light-diffusing properties. The molding material for making the milky white and light-diffusing portion contains, for example, a milky white thermoplastic resin or a light-diffusing filler. In Embodiment 1, the top surface portion 511 is transparent. The molding material for making such a transparent portion contains a transparent thermoplastic resin and does not contain a light-diffusing filler.

[0075] In Embodiment 1, the side plate portion 53 and the inner cover portion 512 are integrated. "Integrated" means that they cannot be separated without being damaged when external force is applied. The entire cover body 50 may also be integrated.

[0076] The side plate portion 53 and the inner cover portion 512 may be integrated by adhesive bonding. The side plate portion 53 and the inner cover portion 512 may be integrated by mechanical elements such as screws.

[0077] In particular, it is preferable that the side plate portion 53 and the inner cover portion 512 are integrally molded. Integral molding means molding the product as a single unit at the same time as joining the components, without using secondary adhesive or mechanical bonding. The entire cover body 50 may also be integrally molded.

[0078] The cover body 50 is manufactured by integral molding, for example, by extrusion molding. If the cover body 50 has a milky white portion and a transparent portion, as in Embodiment 1, the cover body 50 can be manufactured by a multi-color molding method, for example, two-color extrusion molding.

[0079] The cover body 50 may be made of a light-transmitting material other than synthetic resin, such as inorganic glass like quartz glass.

[0080] The optical panel 56 is positioned within the housing space 572 in the cover body 50. The optical panel 56 is an optical component that transmits light. The optical panel 56 of Embodiment 1 is flat, elongated in the longitudinal direction and having thickness in the vertical direction. The optical panel 56 of Embodiment 1 can control the longitudinal light distribution of light that passes through the optical panel 56, then through the top surface 511, and exits to the outside of the cover 5. Specifically, the optical panel 56 can reduce the intensity of light that travels at an angle in the longitudinal direction among the light that passes through the optical panel 56, then through the top surface 511, and exits to the outside of the cover 5. As a result, it is possible to suppress the feeling of glare experienced by a person who views the lighting device at an angle along its longitudinal direction.

[0081] On the lower surface of the optical panel 56, a plurality of prisms 561 are formed, which protrude downward and are long in the short direction, arranged in the longitudinal direction (see Figure 13). The action of these prisms 561 controls the longitudinal distribution of light transmitted through the optical panel 56, and the intensity of light traveling at an angle in the longitudinal direction from the optical panel 56 can be reduced.

[0082] The presence of a protrusion 5122 on the inner cover portion 512 can reduce the displacement of the optical panel 56 within the housing space 572. More specifically, even if the optical panel 56 attempts to move upward within the housing space 572 due to, for example, vibration of the lighting device, the upward-moving optical panel 56 will come into contact with the protrusion 5122, thereby restricting further upward movement of the optical panel 56. This makes it easier for the optical panel 56 to be positioned in the intended (determined by the optical design) position within the housing space 572, and the positional relationship between the inner cover portion 512 and the optical panel 56 is less likely to deviate significantly from the designed positional relationship. As a result, the lighting device of Embodiment 1 makes it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics. Thus, the protrusion 5122 functions as a positioning part that determines the position of the optical panel 56 within the housing space 572.

[0083] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the protrusion 5122 makes the inner cover portion 512 less prone to bending, thus reducing the possibility that the lower surface of the portion of the inner cover portion 512 other than the protrusion 5122 will come into contact with the upper surface of the optical panel 56. If the lower surface of the portion of the inner cover portion 512 other than the protrusion 5122 comes into contact with the upper surface of the optical panel 56, some of the light emitted from the light source will enter the optical panel 56 directly without passing through the air layer from the inner cover portion 512, which may prevent the lighting device from obtaining the desired optical characteristics. In contrast, in Embodiment 1, the presence of the protrusion 5122 in the inner cover portion 512 makes the inner cover portion 512 less prone to bending, and the lower surface of the portion of the inner cover portion 512 other than the protrusion 5122 is less likely to come into contact with the optical panel 56. As a result, an air layer is more easily secured between the inner cover portion 512 and the optical panel 56, making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0084] The dimension L11 of the protrusion 5122 in the direction (vertical direction) where the top surface 511 and the support member 3 face each other is set to a size that allows the optical panel 56 to be positioned between the protrusion 5122 and the top surface 511. That is, the distance L12 between the tip of the vertical protrusion 5122 and the top surface 511 is greater than the dimension (thickness) L2 of the vertical optical panel 56 (see Figure 6). Also, the dimension L11 of the vertical protrusion 5122 is greater than 0. The lower limit of the dimension L11 of the vertical protrusion 5122 is not particularly limited, as long as it is within a range that can reduce the deflection of the inner cover 512.

[0085] The dimension L3 of the optical panel 56 in the short direction is greater than the distance L41 between the two protrusions 5122 in the short direction. In Embodiment 1, furthermore, the dimension L3 of the optical panel 56 in the short direction is greater than the sum of the distance L41 between the two protrusions 5122 in the short direction and the dimension L42 of one of the two protrusions 5122 (see Figure 6). According to this dimensional relationship, even if the optical panel 56 is positioned off-center in the short direction within the housing space 572, at least a portion of the other protrusion 5122 in the short direction (opposite the side to which the optical panel 56 is positioned off-center) overlaps with the optical panel 56. This reduces unintended displacement of the optical panel 56 (for example, the optical panel 56 tilting and entering the space between the two protrusions 5122). The dimension L42 in the short-side direction of the protrusion 5122 may be such that, even when the optical panel 56 is shifted to one side, the optical panel 56 overlaps more than half of one protrusion 5122. In other words, the dimension L42 in the short-side direction of one protrusion 5122 may be more than twice the difference between the dimension L4 in the short-side direction of the housing space 572 and the dimension L3 in the short-side direction of the optical panel 56 (L42 / 2 ≥ L4 - L3).

[0086] The two cover ends 54 are made from, for example, a material having the same light-transmitting properties as the cover body 50. Each cover end 54 is rectangular in shape when viewed longitudinally. One cover end 54 is attached to each of the longitudinal ends of the cover body 50. Each cover end 54 closes the openings at the longitudinal ends of the internal space 571 and the housing space 572 of the cover body 50.

[0087] The cover 5 is supported by the support member 3 (see Figure 6). With the cover 5 supported by the support member 3, the connecting portion 58 is connected to the support member 3 by hooking onto the support portion (support piece 31) from the outside in the short direction. The support member 3 is sandwiched in the short direction by the two connecting portions 58. Specifically, the support member 3 is positioned between the two connecting portions 58 on the cover 5. The projections 581 of the connecting portion 58 are positioned along the outside of each of the two support pieces 31 of the support member 3, and the hooking portion 582 of the connecting portion 58 is hooked onto the tip (upper end) of the support piece 31. In this way, the cover 5 is supported by the support member 3.

[0088] With the cover 5 supported by the support member 3, each extension 55 covers at least a portion of the first surface 30A of the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3 that is exposed to the outside of the light source module 1 (see Figure 6). The upper end of the side piece 552 contacts the first surface 30A of the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3 (see Figure 6). This prevents gaps from forming between the cover 5 and the support member 3, and can prevent foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3.

[0089] As the cover 5 is supported by the support member 3 in this manner, the opening between the two extensions 55 is closed by the support member 3. This creates an internal space 571 between the top surface 511 on the inside of the cover body 50 and the support member 3. In other words, viewed in the longitudinal direction, an internal space 571 is formed on the inside of the cover body 50, surrounded by the inner cover portion 512, the two side cover portions 52, and the support member 3. Furthermore, the second side plate portion 532 of each side plate portion 53 is interposed between the internal space 571 and the outside of the lighting device. That is, only the second side plate portion 532 is interposed between the portion of the internal space 571 facing the second side plate portion 532 and the outside of the lighting device.

[0090] The light source module 1, which is attached to the first surface 30A of the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3, is positioned between two extensions 55, facing the internal space 571 through the opening between the extensions 55. Therefore, the light-emitting element 10 in the light source module 1 is positioned facing the internal space 571 through the opening between the extensions 55, that is, it is positioned above the internal space 571. This allows the light-emitting element 10 of the light source module 1 to irradiate the internal space 571 with light.

[0091] The lighting device does not have any members in the internal space 571 that block light traveling in a straight line from the light source (light source module 1) toward the top surface 511 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Specifically, when the internal space 571 is viewed in the longitudinal direction, there are no members that block light between a hypothetical line segment connecting the light-emitting element 10 and one edge of the inner cover portion 512 in the short direction, and a hypothetical line segment connecting the light-emitting element 10 and the other edge of the inner cover portion 512 in the short direction. Note that the longitudinal position of the connector 12 on the substrate 11 of the light source module 1 is offset from the longitudinal position of each light-emitting element 10, and therefore does not constitute a member that blocks light.

[0092] The surface of each extension 55 facing the internal space 571 of the reflective portion 553 constitutes a reflective surface 59. The surface of the side piece 552 facing the internal space 571 can also constitute a reflective surface 59 together with the surface of the reflective portion 553 facing the internal space 571. In other words, the cover body 50 has two reflective surfaces 59. The reflective surfaces 59 are irradiated with light that does not travel straight from the light source to the inner cover portion 512, and at least a portion of this light can be reflected toward the inner cover portion 512. In Embodiment 1, the two reflective surfaces 59 are arranged such that the light-emitting element 10 is located between the two reflective surfaces 59 when viewed in the longitudinal direction. On each of the two reflective surfaces 59, the surface in particular facing the internal space 571 of the reflective portion 553 is oriented inward and diagonally downward. Each reflective surface 59 is located above a hypothetical line segment connecting the light-emitting element 10 and the short edge of the inner cover portion 512. Furthermore, when viewed in the longitudinal direction, the position of the light-emitting portion of the light-emitting element 10 is below the virtual plane containing each reflective surface 59. Therefore, light is directly shone from the light-emitting element 10 toward the reflective surface 59, and at least a portion of this light can be reflected toward the inner cover portion 512.

[0093] (1-3) Installation of lighting fixtures Lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling of the room using the following procedure.

[0094] First, as shown in Figure 12, the light source module 1 is attached to the support member 3 in the light source unit A1, and when the support member 3 and the cover 5 are separated, the cover 5 is attached to the support member 3 as shown in Figure 14. In Embodiment 1, the connecting part 58 is hooked onto the support part (support piece) from the outside in the short direction, thereby connecting the connecting part 58 to the support member 3, and the cover 5 is supported by the support member 3 as the support member 3 is sandwiched in the short direction by the two connecting parts 58.

[0095] When attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3, the worker pushes the cover 5 onto the support member 3, with the cover 5 positioned below the support member 3, so that the connecting portion 58 of the cover 5 is positioned on the outside of each of the two support pieces 31 of the support member 3 in the short direction. As a result, the tip of the hooking portion 582 rubs against the outer surface of the support piece 31, causing the connecting portion 58 to move upward relative to the support piece 31. The force applied to the connecting portion 58 from the support piece 31 in the short direction outwards causes the side cover portion 52 to deform so that it bends outwards in the short direction. When the tip of the hooking portion 582 reaches the upper end of the support piece 31, the force applied to the connecting portion 58 is removed, and the shape of the side cover portion 52 returns to its original state. As a result, as shown in Figure 14, the connecting portion 58 hooks onto the upper end of the support piece 31, and the cover 5 is supported by the support member 3.

[0096] In Embodiment 1, the inner cover portion 512 is stretched between the two side plate portions 53, and the cover body 50 does not have a member stretched between the two side cover portions 52 on the support member 3 side (i.e., above) of the inner cover portion 512. Therefore, when force is applied to the joint portion 58 from the support piece 31 when the cover 5 is attached to the support member 3, the side cover portion 52 deforms so as to bend, with the point where it connects to the inner cover portion 512 as a fulcrum. For this reason, a large force is likely to be applied to the point where the side cover portion 52 connects to the inner cover portion 512. However, in Embodiment 1, since the side plate portion 53 and the inner cover portion 512 are integrated, damage to the cover body 50 is suppressed, and separation of the side cover portion 52 and the inner cover portion 512 can be suppressed. For this reason, the optical panel 56 housed in the housing space 572 can also be suppressed from falling out of the cover body 50. In particular, if the inner cover portion 512 and the two side plate portions 53 are integrally molded, damage to the cover body 50 is further suppressed, and separation between the side cover portion 52 and the inner cover portion 512 can be further suppressed.

[0097] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the vertical dimension of the second side plate portion 532 is larger than the vertical dimension of the first side plate portion 531. That is, the dimension of the internal space 571 in the direction in which the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3 face each other (vertical dimension) is larger than the dimension of the housing space 572 in the direction in which the top surface portion 511 and the support member 3 face each other (vertical dimension). Therefore, even if the cover body 50 is equipped with an inner cover portion 512, the degree of deformation of the entire side cover portion 52 may be greater than the degree of deformation of the portion of the side cover portion 52 that connects to the inner cover portion 512. Therefore, the force applied to the portion of the side plate portion 53 that connects to the inner cover portion 512 when the side cover portion 52 deforms can be kept low. This also helps to prevent damage to the cover body 50 and separation of the side cover portion 52 and the inner cover portion 512.

[0098] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the side plate portion 53 as a whole is inclined so that it moves outward in the short direction as it moves from the top surface portion 511 side towards the support member 3 side (i.e., upward). Specifically, of the first side plate portion 531 and the second side plate portion 532 that constitute the side plate portion 53, the first side plate portion 531 is not inclined in the short direction, but the second side plate portion 532 is inclined so that it moves outward in the short direction as it moves away from the top surface portion 511 (i.e., upward). As a result, the distance between the two second side plate portions 532 is larger towards the upper side. Therefore, when the side cover portion 52 deforms so as to bend outward with the point where it connects to the inner cover portion 512 as a fulcrum, the connecting portion 58 is more likely to move significantly outward in the short direction. This also helps to keep the force applied to the point where the side cover portion 52 connects to the inner cover portion 512 low.

[0099] The worker performing the installation pulls the power cable 92, which is drawn out from the ceiling S1, into the housing 60 through the central power hole 64 of the fixture body 6 (see Figure 2). The worker also pulls the signal wire, which is drawn out from the ceiling S1, into the housing 60 through the power hole 64 at the longitudinal end of the fixture body 6. Then, the worker inserts the two suspension bolts 90 provided in the ceiling S1 into the pair of mounting holes 63 of the fixture body 6, and attaches the fixture body 6 to the ceiling S1 by tightening nuts 91 on the suspension bolts 90 inserted into each mounting hole 63 via washers (not shown). After that, the worker electrically connects the power cable 92, which was pulled out from the central power hole 64, to the terminal block 65.

[0100] Next, as preparation for attaching the light source unit A1 to the fixture body 6, the worker inserts and holds the arms 381 of each of the two second hooking members 38 into the recesses 3930 of the temporary holding portion 393 of the mounting bracket 39 (see Figure 14). At this time, since the inner wall of the recess 3930 in the temporary holding portion 393 is inclined toward the recess 3930, the arms 381 can be guided toward the recess 3930. Therefore, the workability of the work of holding the arms 381 in the temporary holding portion 393 of the light source unit A1 can be improved. However, the arms 381 of each of the two second hooking members 38 may be inserted into the recesses 3930 of the temporary holding portion 393 of the mounting bracket 39 at the time of shipment. In that case, the above preparation work by the worker can be omitted, thereby reducing the workload on the worker and improving workability.

[0101] As the arm portion 381 is held by the temporary holding portion 393, the vertical space between the upper end of the wall portion of the light source unit A1 (the support piece 31 of the support member 3 and the projection 581 of the cover 5) and the arm portion 381 is increased. Furthermore, the worker slides the hook piece 372 of the first hooking member 37 until the rising piece 371 contacts the veneer 3911 of the mounting bracket 39 (see Figure 8).

[0102] Next, the worker inserts the hook piece 372 of the first hooking member 37 of the light source unit A1 into the hook hole 600 of the first hook fitting 603 of the fixture body 6, and hooks the tip of each hook piece 372 onto the edge of each hook hole 600 on the side wall of the housing 60, thereby temporarily suspending the light source unit A1 from the fixture body 6. In this temporarily suspended state, the worker electrically connects the power connector 94 at the end of the power line 93 connected to the terminal block 65 to the power connector 23 of the power unit 2 (see Figure 17), and also electrically connects the signal line to the communication unit 4.

[0103] Next, the worker inserts their finger into the space between the arm portion 381 and the projection 581 of the second hooking member 38 and pushes up the arm portion 381 with their finger, hooking the tip of the arm portion 381 onto the two second hook fittings 601 of the fixture body 6, one by one (see Figure 15). Then, the worker uses the hook piece 372, which is touching the edge of the hooking hole 600, as a pivot point and lifts the light source unit A1 while rotating it in the shorter direction. As a result, the deformed second hooking member 38 returns to its original shape, and the light source unit A1 is held by the fixture body 6 with the power supply unit 2 and communication unit 4 housed in the housing portion 60 by the first hooking member 37 hooked onto the edge of the hooking hole 600 and the second hooking member 38 hooked onto the second hook fitting 601 (see Figures 1 and 6).

[0104] The lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling using the above procedure.

[0105] In this configuration, when the lighting fixture B1 is installed on the ceiling, the power supply unit 2 and communication unit 4 of the light source unit A1 are positioned between two suspension bolts 90, nuts 91, and washers (not shown) in the longitudinal direction of the fixture body 6 (see Figures 9 and 10). In other words, the lighting fixture B1 has the advantage of being able to shorten its height (become thinner) because the two suspension bolts 90, nuts 91, and washers (not shown) and the power supply unit 2 and communication unit 4 do not overlap in the vertical direction.

[0106] Furthermore, in the fixture body 6, two second hook fittings 601 are positioned near the mounting holes 63. As a result, the distance between the position where the tightening force of the nut 91 is applied to the fixture body 6 (around the mounting holes 63 of the housing 60) and the position where the spring force of the second hook member 38 is applied to the fixture body 6 (the position of the second hook fittings 601) is shortened. Consequently, the lighting fixture B1 can suppress deflection along the longitudinal direction of the fixture body 6 and reduce the gap between the fixture body 6 and the light source unit A1 (and its cover 5).

[0107] In addition, multiple lighting fixtures B1 may be installed on the ceiling S1 in a line, with the end plates 62 of each fixture body 6 butting together. In this case, power cables 95 are routed between adjacent lighting fixtures B1 through holes formed by cutting out the knockout portions 620 of the end plates 62. In other words, two power cables 95 are electrically connected to the terminal block 65 of one lighting fixture B1 (see Figure 16). At this time, each power cable 95 is held in a cable holding portion 602 cut out from the bottom surface (underside) of the housing portion 60 (see Figure 16). However, the housing portion 60 does not necessarily have to have a cable holding portion 602. Here, the light source unit A1 has the power unit 2 positioned towards one end in the short direction of the support member 3 (see Figure 6). As a result, the light source unit A1 and the lighting fixture B1 have sufficient space to accommodate the power lines 93 connecting the terminal block 65 and the power supply unit 2, as well as the power cables 95 for feed-through wiring, thereby improving the workability of wiring.

[0108] (1-4) Advantages of Embodiment 1 When the lighting fixture B1 is in use, the light-emitting element 10 emits light, and the light emitted from the light-emitting element 10 passes sequentially through the inner cover 512, the optical panel 56, and the top surface 511 before being radiated to the outside of the lighting fixture B1. Since the inner cover 512 is light-transmitting and light-diffusing, the light is diffused as it passes through the inner cover 512. As a result, from the outside of the lighting fixture B1, the entire top surface 511 appears to be emitting light, and the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface 511 is enhanced.

[0109] In Embodiment 1, since the dimensions of the top surface 511 in the short direction and the dimensions of the inner cover 512 in the short direction are the same, light transmitted through the inner cover 512 is easily irradiated onto the entire top surface 511. As a result, the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface 511 is further enhanced.

[0110] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the lighting device does not have any members in the internal space 571 that block light traveling in a straight line from the light source (light source module 1) toward the top surface 511 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Therefore, light emitted from the light-emitting element 10 toward the inner cover 512 can reach the inner cover 512 without being blocked. As a result, when the lighting device is observed from the outside, areas that appear dark due to light being blocked are less likely to occur on the top surface 511, and the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface 511 is further improved.

[0111] Furthermore, at least a portion of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 10 toward the reflective surface 59 may be reflected by the reflective surface 59 toward the inner cover portion 512. This can increase the luminous efficiency of the lighting device.

[0112] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the optical panel 56 can control the longitudinal light distribution of the light that passes through the optical panel 56, then through the top surface 511, and exits to the outside of the cover 5. Specifically, the optical panel 56 can reduce the intensity of the light that travels at an angle in the longitudinal direction among the light that passes through the optical panel 56, then through the top surface 511, and exits to the outside of the cover 5. As a result, it is possible to suppress the feeling of glare experienced by people who view the lighting device at an angle along its longitudinal direction.

[0113] As described above, in Embodiment 1, when the lighting device is observed from the outside, the entire top surface 511 of the cover 5 appears to emit light uniformly.

[0114] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, a protrusion 5122 is provided on the opposing surface 5121 of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50, projecting toward the top surface portion 511. As a result, the optical panel 56 is more easily positioned in the intended (determined by the optical design) position within the housing space 572, making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0115] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, since only the second side plate portion 532 is interposed between the portion of the internal space 571 inside the cover body 50 that faces the second side plate portion 532 and the space outside the lighting device, heat from the internal space 571 is easily released to the outside of the lighting device through the second side plate portion 532. As a result, heat generated by the operation of the light source (light source module 1), etc., is easily released to the outside of the lighting device. This can improve the stability of the operation of the lighting device.

[0116] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the vertical dimension of the internal space 571 between the inner cover portion 512 and the support member 3 inside the cover body 50 is larger than the vertical dimension of the space (accommodation space 572) between the inner cover portion 512 and the top surface portion 511 inside the cover body 50. In other words, the volume of the internal space 571 is larger than the volume of the accommodation space 572. Therefore, even if the cover body 50 has an inner cover portion 512, a large volume of space (internal space 571) around the light source inside the cover body 50 can be secured. Therefore, even if heat is generated when the light source (light source module 1), etc., operates, the temperature rise around the light source can be suppressed. This can also improve the stability of the operation of the lighting device.

[0117] (2) Variant Next, several modifications of the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. However, the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 of each of the modifications described below is the same as the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 according to Embodiment 1. Therefore, components that are common or substantially common with the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 according to Embodiment 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their illustrations and descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. In the following description, "substantially common components" means components that differ slightly in shape, size, etc., but have the same function. Furthermore, each of the modifications described below can be appropriately combined with Embodiment 1 and other modifications.

[0118] (2-1) Variation 1 Figure 18 shows Modification 1, in which the structure of the optical panel 56 is changed. The lower surface of the optical panel 56 of Modification 1 has a plurality of prisms 562, each consisting of a recess. The plurality of prisms 562 are arranged in a matrix. The surface of each prism 562 has two inclined surfaces 563 that are inclined in opposite directions with respect to the longitudinal direction, and two inclined surfaces 564 that are inclined in opposite directions with respect to the short direction. The two inclined surfaces 563 of each prism 562 that are inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction control the light distribution of light transmitted through the optical panel 56 in the direction inclined in the longitudinal direction, thereby reducing the intensity of light traveling inclined in the longitudinal direction. As a result, it is possible to suppress the feeling of glare for a person who views the lighting device at an angle along the longitudinal direction. In addition, the two inclined surfaces 564 of each prism 562 that are inclined with respect to the short direction also control the light distribution of light transmitted through the optical panel 56 in the direction inclined in the short direction, thereby reducing the intensity of light traveling inclined in the short direction. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the feeling of glare experienced by people who view the lighting fixture at an angle along its shorter side.

[0119] (2-2) Modification 2 In Embodiment 1, the top surface 511 of the cover body 50 is transparent, and both the inner cover portion 512 and the side cover portion 52 of the cover body 50 are similarly milky white and have light-diffusing properties. However, the appearance color and optical properties of the cover body 50 are not limited to those described above.

[0120] For example, the visible light reflectance of the reflective surface 59 on the side cover portion 52 may be higher than that of the inner surface of the cover body 50 facing the internal space 571, excluding the reflective surface 59. In this case, the amount of light reflected by the reflective surface 59 and traveling to the inner cover portion 512 increases, which can further improve the luminous efficiency of the lighting device.

[0121] Furthermore, for example, the side plate portion 53 may or may not be light-transmitting.

[0122] If the side plate portion 53 is light-transmitting, the side plate portion 53 may be transparent, or it may be milky white and have light-diffusing properties. If the side plate portion 53 is light-transmitting, when the lighting device is observed from the outside, the side plate portion 53 will also appear to emit light.

[0123] If the side panel 53 does not transmit light, it is possible to suppress the feeling of glare for a person who views the lighting fixture B1 at an angle. In this case, the side panel 53 may be milky white, or it may be a color other than milky white, such as black.

[0124] The visible light reflectivity of the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 facing the internal space 571 may be increased. In this case, the amount of light reflected by the side plate portion 53 and directed toward the inner cover portion 512 in the internal space 571 increases, which can increase the light emission intensity of the top surface portion 511. In other words, the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 facing the internal space 571 can function as a reflective surface 59.

[0125] The color of the parts included in the cover body 50, as well as the optical properties such as light transmittance, light diffusion, and light reflectivity, can be adjusted, for example, by making at least one of the content of light-diffusing filler and the type of filler in that part different from the rest of the cover body. In this case, for example, by manufacturing the cover body 50 by multi-color molding, the cover body 50 can be integrally molded while partially differentiating at least one of the content of light-diffusing filler and the type of filler in the cover body 50. Furthermore, for example, to increase the light reflectivity of surfaces such as the reflective surface 59 and the inner surface of the side plate portion 53, a light-reflective paint may be applied to these surfaces.

[0126] (2-3) Modification 3 The lighting fixture B1 in Modification 3 is characterized by the structure of the fixture body 6. In Modification 1, the fixture body 6 is attached to the ceiling S1 so as to cover the recessed hole F1 provided in the ceiling S1 (see Figures 19 and 20).

[0127] As shown in Figure 20, the main body 6 of the device in modified example 2 includes a top plate unit 68 and a reflector unit 69.

[0128] The top plate unit 68 has a top plate 680 formed in the shape of a long rectangular flat plate, and a pair of side walls 681 that extend downward along the longitudinal direction of the top plate 680 from both ends in the short direction of the top plate 680. Preferably, the top plate unit 68 is formed integrally with the top plate 680 and the pair of side walls 681 by bending a metal plate, such as a galvanized steel plate. The top plate 680 has a plurality of mounting holes 63 and a plurality of power supply holes 64. A terminal block 65 is attached to the underside of the top plate 680. A plurality of power lines 93 are electrically connected to the terminal block 65. Power connectors 94 are attached to the ends of the plurality of power lines 93 (see Figure 20). Furthermore, a second hook fitting 601 is provided at each end in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 680. Furthermore, one groove 682 is provided at each of the longitudinal ends of one side wall 681, which serves as a hook hole 600 when the top plate unit 68 and the reflector unit 69 are joined together.

[0129] The reflector unit 69 includes a pair of first reflectors 691, a pair of second reflectors 692, a frame 693, and a pair of projections 694.

[0130] Each of the pair of first reflectors 691 is formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate. A projection 694 protrudes upward from the upper end of each of the first reflectors 691. Each of the projections 694 is formed in the shape of an inverted L when viewed from the longitudinal direction (see Figure 20). Each of the pair of second reflectors 692 is formed in the shape of a trapezoidal flat plate (see Figure 20). Each of the two hypotenuses of the pair of second reflectors 692 is connected to the longitudinal end of the first reflector 691 (see Figure 20). The frame 693 is formed in the shape of a long rectangular frame. The frame 693 is connected to the lower ends of the pair of first reflectors 691 and the pair of second reflectors 692. In other words, the reflector unit 69 is formed in the shape of a long pyramidal truncated square with the top and bottom surfaces open.

[0131] The fixture body 6 is constructed by fixing a pair of projections 694 to a pair of side walls 681 and connecting the top plate unit 68 to the reflector unit 69. At both ends in the longitudinal direction of the fixture body 6, the area surrounded by the top plate unit 68 and the pair of second reflectors 692 is open.

[0132] In the modified example 3, the main body of the fixture 6 is inserted into a recessed hole F1 provided in the ceiling S1, and the top plate 680 of the top plate unit 68 is attached to a suspension bolt 90 hanging from the building structure. The frame 693 rests against the lower surface (ceiling surface) of the ceiling S1 from below, covering the edge of the recessed hole F1.

[0133] The light source unit A1 in Modification 3 is the same as the light source unit A1 in Embodiment 1. Therefore, similar to Embodiment 1, the light source unit A1 is held to the fixture body 6 by the spring force of the hook piece 372 of the first hooking member 37 hooked onto the edge of the hooking hole 600, and the second hooking member 38 hooked onto the second hooking fitting 601.

[0134] In Modification 3, the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 may be light-transmitting (see Modification 2). In this case, light transmitted through the side plate portion 53 and irradiated to the outside of the lighting device can be reflected by the first reflector 691 and radiated around the lighting device. As a result, light can be radiated over a wide area around the lighting device. Therefore, the space around the lighting device may feel brighter overall.

[0135] (2-4) Modification 4 The light source unit A1 may have a recess in the support piece 31 of the support member 3 at a position that overlaps with the bent portion 383 when viewed from the short side of the support member 3. In this case, the distance between the bent portion 383 of the arm portion 381 and the tip (upper end) of the support piece 31 can be extended. As a result, the light source unit A1 can be further improved in terms of ease of installation on the fixture body 6. The recess in the support piece 31 may be provided at the end of the support piece 31 in the longitudinal direction. The shape of the recess is not limited to a rectangle, and may be a shape other than a polygon, such as a semicircle.

[0136] The light source unit A1 may have the bent portion 383 of the arm portion 381 formed in a trapezoidal or arc-shaped form when viewed from the short side of the support member 3. In this case, the space between the bent portion 383 and the tip of the support piece 31 can be widened in the longitudinal direction of the support piece 31, thereby further improving the workability of the installation work on the fixture body 6. Instead of the bent portion 383, another member (for example, a string, cable tie, etc.) may be attached to the arm portion 381.

[0137] In the second hooking member 38 of Embodiment 1, the tip of the arm portion 381 is bent into an L-shape (see Figures 12 and 14). If the tip of the arm portion 381 is not bent, when the arm portion 381 moves downward due to the spring force of the coil portion 380, there is a possibility that the bottom plate 30 may be scratched when the tip of the arm portion 381 collides with the bottom plate 30 or the like. In contrast, the second hooking member 38 of Embodiment 1 reduces the possibility of the bottom plate 30 being scratched when the tip of the arm portion 381 collides with the bottom plate 30 or the like by bending the tip of the arm portion 381 into an L-shape. However, the tip of the arm portion 381 may be V-shaped, that is, bent at an acute angle, or the tip of the arm portion 381 may be bent at an obtuse angle. In the arm portion 381, a further bent portion may be provided between the bent portion 383 and the tip, bending in the opposite direction to the bent portion 383.

[0138] The tip of the arm portion 381 may be bent at an obtuse angle towards the coil portion 380, or it may be bent at an acute angle. Alternatively, the tip of the arm portion 381 may be curled outwards or inwards. Bending or curling the tip of the arm portion 381 further reduces the possibility of scratching the base plate 30 when the tip of the arm portion 381 collides with the base plate 30 or the like.

[0139] In the light source unit A1 according to Embodiment 1, the second hooking member 38 is attached to the support member 3 via a dedicated mounting bracket 39. However, instead of the dedicated mounting bracket 39, it may be attached to the support member 3 via a component with another function, such as a power supply case 21. The second hooking member 38 may also be attached directly to the support member 3. The second hooking member 38 may also be attached to the support member 3 via an appropriate mounting device other than the mounting bracket 39.

[0140] The shape of the temporary holding portion 393 is not limited to Embodiment 1. For example, if the upper surface of the temporary holding portion 393 on the side closer to the support piece 31 relative to the recess 3930 is made into an inclined surface, the arm portion 381 can be fitted into the recess 3930 by sliding it along the inclined surface. The temporary holding portion 393 may not have an inclined surface, or the entire upper surface of the temporary holding portion 3930, excluding the recess 3930, may be a flat surface. The upper surface of the temporary holding portion 393 on the side closer to the support piece 31 may be an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the recess 3930. The temporary holding portion 393 may have a rib that protrudes upward from the upper surface opposite to the support piece 31 relative to the recess 3930, in which case the rib can prevent the arm portion 381 fitted into the recess 3930 from coming out of the recess 3930.

[0141] In the second hooking member 38 of Embodiment 1, a torsion coil spring is used, but a leaf spring may be used instead of the torsion coil spring.

[0142] (2-5) Modification 5 The projection 34 on the support member 3 may have various shapes. For example, the projection 34 may be trough-shaped when viewed in the longitudinal direction, and may protrude outward to facilitate hooking of the hook portion 582. The bottom of the projection 34 may be formed to slope downward outward. The projection 34 may be formed in a V-shape. At least one of the inner side and outer side of the projection 34 may be formed to slope with respect to the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the bottom plate 30. The inner side of the projection 34 may be formed in a stepped shape. The tip (upper end) of the support piece 31 may be bent in an L-shape to facilitate hooking of the hook portion 582 of the projection 581. The outer side of the projection 34 may be formed in a stepped shape. At least one of the bottom, inner side, and outer side of the projection 34 may be formed to be inclined. The strength of the support member 3 may be improved by providing beads on the inside of each projection 34 on the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3. The support member 3 may have a support piece 31 at only one end in the shorter direction. The support member 3 may have only a bottom plate 30 without any support pieces 31. Two support pieces 31 may protrude from the support member 3 in different directions (upward and downward) in the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the bottom plate 30.

[0143] (2-6) Modification 6 In the light source unit A1, abnormal noises may occur due to the difference in thermal expansion coefficients between the metal support member 3 and the synthetic resin cover 5. Specifically, when the expansion and contraction forces of the synthetic resin cover 5, which has a relatively larger thermal expansion coefficient, exceed the maximum static friction force at the contact surface between the support member 3 and the cover 5, the strain that had been generated in the cover 5 is suddenly released. This sudden release of strain in the cover 5 generates friction noise accompanied by vibration at the contact surface between the cover 5 and the support member 3. This phenomenon is generally known as the stick-slip phenomenon. Furthermore, it is thought that abnormal noises due to the stick-slip phenomenon are more likely to occur the larger the contact area between the two members (support member 3 and cover 5).

[0144] Therefore, the tip (upper end) of the extension portion 55 of the cover 5 may be raised away from the first surface 30A of the support member 3 (the bottom plate 30) so as not to come into contact with it. In that case, the tip of the side piece 552 does not come into contact with the support member 3, thereby suppressing the generation of abnormal noise associated with the stick-slip phenomenon.

[0145] The extension portion 55 does not necessarily have a side piece 552. In this case, it is preferable that the tip of the main piece 550 of the extension portion 55 does not come into contact with the first surface 30A of the base plate 30, but it may come into contact. The portion of the main piece 550 of the extension portion 55 that is inside the projection 34 of the support member 3 may be formed to be substantially parallel to the first surface 30A of the base plate 30. The main piece 550 of the extension portion 55 may be directly connected to the cover body 50 without the connecting piece 551.

[0146] At least a portion of the extension 55 may be made from a different material (such as synthetic resin) than the other parts of the cover body 50 by multi-color molding or the like. For example, the entire extension 55 may be filled with filler to form a white color, while the other parts of the cover body 50 may be filled with less filler than the extension 55, or filled with a different filler to form a milky white color. The tip of the extension 55 may or may not contact the first surface 30A of the bottom plate 30 of the support member 3.

[0147] (2-7) Variation 7 The support member 3 may have a flat portion between the projection 34 and the support piece 31 that is parallel to the bottom plate 30 and located below the bottom plate 30. In this case, the cover 5 may have the tip of the extension 55 facing the substrate 11 of the light source module 1 with a gap between them, along the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the bottom plate 30. In this case, if the substrate 11 is fixed to the support member 3 with adhesive or the like, even if the adhesive peels off and the substrate falls, the extension 55 of the cover 5 will catch the substrate 11, thus preventing the substrate 11 from falling. Furthermore, if the extension 55 has a reflective function, the light extraction efficiency can be further improved. In addition, by not having the extension 55 and the substrate 11 come into contact, the generation of abnormal noise associated with the stick-slip phenomenon can be suppressed.

[0148] The bottom surface of the projection 34 of the support member 3 may be inclined upward toward the short end of the bottom plate 30. In this case, the end of the main piece 550 of the extension 55 of the cover 5 that is closer to the side piece 552 may be flat so as to be parallel to the bottom plate 30. Furthermore, the cover 5 may have a projection that protrudes upward from the tip of the hooking portion 582. However, the projection is not provided in a position that overlaps with the arm portion 381 of the second hooking member 38 in the short direction of the cover body 50. In this case, the light source unit A1 can improve the strength of the projection 581 while improving the workability of the installation work on the fixture body 6.

[0149] The cover 5 may have a projection that protrudes diagonally upward from the main piece 550 of the extension 55 toward the bottom plate 30 and is in contact with the projection 34. In this case, the projection may be provided along the entire length of the main piece 550, or on a portion of the main piece 550 in the longitudinal direction. This projection can suppress the movement of the support member 3 and the cover 5 from each other. The projection does not need to be in constant contact with the projection 34; there may be a gap between the cover body 50 and the projection 34 that allows contact when the cover body 50 is deformed. The projection may protrude upward along the projection 34. The projection may also protrude in the opposite direction (towards the projection 34), in which case the tip (upper end) of the projection may be bent into an L shape. The projection may protrude from the main piece 550 along the thickness direction of the bottom plate 30, and the tip of the projection may be bent into a V shape. The main piece 550 of the extension 55 may be shortened so that the side piece 552 comes into contact with the side of the projection (the side opposite to the support piece 31).

[0150] The side surface of the projection 34, which extends from the bottom plate 30, may be formed to incline diagonally downward toward the support piece 31. In this case, the main piece 550 of the extension 55 may be directly connected to the cover body 50 without the connecting piece 551. In addition to the projection, the extension 55 may also be provided with a rib that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the main piece 550. The rib is formed to be able to contact the lower bottom surface of the projection 34. The rib may be provided along the entire length of the main piece 550, or on a portion of the length of the main piece 550. Such a rib can reduce the noise generated when the support member 3 and the cover 5 repeatedly come into contact and separate due to vibration, etc. Alternatively, or together with this rib, a rib that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the projection 34 of the support member 3 may be provided. The projection may protrude diagonally upward toward the light source module 1 from the main piece 550, or diagonally upward toward the projection 34 from the main piece 550.

[0151] The projection 34 may be formed in a V-shape, and the extension 55 may have a projection that protrudes diagonally upward from the main piece 550 so as to approach the projection 34. In this case, the projection can suppress the movement of the support member 3 and the cover 5 relative to each other.

[0152] The projection 34 may be formed in a semi-cylindrical shape. In this case, a part of the main piece 550 in the extension 55 (the part that connects to the connecting piece 551) may be curved so as to contact the projection 34. In this case, stress concentration on the main piece 550 from the projection 34 and the extension 55 can be reduced.

[0153] (2-8) Variation 8 The hook portion 582 may be formed to bend at approximately a right angle from the tip (upper end) of the projection 581, or to be formed to bend at an acute angle from the tip of the projection 581. The hook portion 582 may be formed in the shape of an inverted L, or in the shape of an inverted L with a part (upper part) curved upward.

[0154] (2-9) Modification 9 In the modified example 9, the extension portion 55 may not have a connecting piece 551, and the main piece 550 may be directly connected to the side plate portion 53. In this case, since the protrusions at both ends in the short direction of the cover 5 are eliminated, the light extraction efficiency in the short direction of the cover 5 can be improved.

[0155] (2-10) Variation 10 The projection 581 of the cover 5 may be attached to the support piece 31 of the support member 3 by appropriate fastening components. Examples of fastening components include stepped screws or rivets. The height of the support piece 31 may be greater than the height of the projection 581. In this case, it is desirable to partially reduce the height by providing a recess (notch) along the short side of the support member 3 at a position opposite the second hooking member 38.

[0156] (2-11) Variation 11 The entire support piece 31 of the support member 3 may be curled upward. The support member 3 may or may not have a projection 34. Furthermore, a recess may be provided at the base of the projection 581 of the cover 5 for fitting the curled support piece 31. The cover 5 may or may not have an extension 55. By fitting the curled support piece 31 into the recess, the cover 5 can be attached to the support member 3, thereby improving the workability of the installation process.

[0157] (2-12) Variation 12 The inner cover portion 512 does not have to be integrated with the side plate portion 53. For example, the short ends of the inner cover portion 512 may rest on two ribs that protrude inward in the short direction from each of the two side plate portions 53. Even in this case, the presence of the protrusion 5122 on the inner cover portion 512 makes it less likely for the positional relationship between the inner cover portion 512 and the optical panel 56 to deviate significantly from the designed positional relationship, making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0158] (2-13) Variation 13 The protrusion 5122 does not necessarily have to be provided along the entire length of the inner cover portion 512 in the longitudinal direction, and may have a notch or the like in between. Also, in Embodiment 1, the dimension L42 in the short direction of the protrusion 5122 is the same (constant) in all parts in the longitudinal direction, but the dimension L42 in the short direction of the protrusion 5122 does not have to be constant.

[0159] (2-14) Modification 14 The optical panel 56 may have other functions in addition to, or instead of, its function of controlling the longitudinal distribution of light traveling at an angle in the longitudinal direction. The optical panel 56 may have the function of, for example, a convex lens or a concave lens. The optical panel 56 may also be a Fresnel lens.

[0160] [Embodiment 2] The lighting device (light source unit A1) and lighting fixture B1 of Embodiment 2 will now be described. In Embodiment 2, components of the light source unit A1 and lighting fixture B1 that are common or substantially common with those of Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their illustration and description will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, Embodiment 2, described below, can be appropriately combined with Embodiment 1 and its modifications.

[0161] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, for the sake of explanation, the "longitudinal direction," "vertical direction," and "short direction" in Embodiment 1 may be referred to as "first direction D1," "second direction D2," and "third direction D3," respectively. Also, "viewing in the first direction D1 (longitudinal direction)" may be referred to as "plan view from the first direction D1."

[0162] (1)Details (1-1) Lighting fixtures The lighting fixture B1 of Embodiment 2 comprises a light source unit A1 (lighting device) and a fixture body 6, similar to the lighting fixture B1 of Embodiment 1 (see Figures 1 to 11). The configuration of the fixture body 6 of Embodiment 2 is the same as that of the fixture body 6 of Embodiment 1.

[0163] (1-2) Light source unit The light source unit A1 of Embodiment 2, like the light source unit A1 of Embodiment 1, comprises a light source (light source module 1), a support member 3, a cover 5, a first hooking member 37, and a second hooking member 38. Furthermore, the light source unit A1 of Embodiment 2 also comprises a power supply unit 2 and a communication unit 4. All components of the light source unit A1 of Embodiment 2, except for the cover 5, are the same as those of the light source unit A1 of Embodiment 1.

[0164] (1-3) Cover The cover 5 of Embodiment 2, like the cover 5 of Embodiment 1, comprises a cover body 50, an optical panel 56, and a cover end 54. The configurations of the cover body 50 and optical panel 56 of Embodiment 2 are the same as those of the cover body 50 and optical panel 56 of Embodiment 1.

[0165] (1-4) Cover End As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the cover end 54 has an end body 70, a wall portion 71, and an end rib 81.

[0166] The cover end 54 is milky white and has light-diffusing properties. The cover end 54 is manufactured, for example, by extrusion molding. The molding material for producing the milky white and light-diffusing cover end 54 contains, for example, a milky white thermoplastic resin or a light-diffusing filler.

[0167] As shown in Figures 23 to 25, the cover end 54 is attached to the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 (longitudinal direction). The cover end 54 is attached to the end of the cover body 50 so as to close the opening at the end of the internal space 571 in the first direction D1 and the opening at the end of the housing space 572 in the first direction D1. Figure 25 is a side view from the cover body 50 side showing the cover end 54 attached to one end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1.

[0168] In Embodiment 2, two cover ends 54 are attached to both ends of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1. The two cover ends 54 may be the same shape and size as each other.

[0169] (1-4-1) End body As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the end body 70 is a flat plate that is longer in the third direction D3 than in the second direction D2 and has thickness in the first direction D1. The end body 70 faces the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1. The end body 70 includes a first portion 701 that closes the opening at the end of the housing space 572 of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1, and a second portion 702 that closes the opening at the end of the internal space 571 of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 (see Figures 23 and 24).

[0170] As shown in Figure 22, the first portion 701 is rectangular in plan view from the first direction D1. Both sides of the first portion 701 in the third direction D3 include straight sections 7010 extending along the second direction D2. The straight sections 7010 on both sides of the first portion 701 are parallel to each other.

[0171] The second part 702 is substantially trapezoidal in plan view from the first direction D1. Both sides of the second part 702 in the third direction D3 include an inclined surface portion 7021 that is connected to the upper end of the straight portion 7010 of the first part 701 and slopes outward in the third direction D3 as it goes upward, and a straight portion 7020 that is connected to the upper end of the inclined surface portion 7021 and extends straight upward along the second direction D2. The straight portions 7020 on both sides of the second part 702 are parallel to each other.

[0172] The end body 70 is, as a whole, plate-shaped, with its width (dimension in the third direction D3) increasing from the top surface 511 side of the cover body 50 towards the support member 3 side.

[0173] (1-4-2) Wall part The wall portion 71 protrudes along the first direction D1 from the surface of the end body 70 that faces the cover body 50.

[0174] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the wall portion 71 includes a lower wall portion 72, two side wall portions 73, an upper wall portion 74, and an inner wall portion 75.

[0175] The lower wall portion 72 is formed to be elongated in the third direction D3. The lower wall portion 72 extends in the third direction D3 along the lower edge of the end body 70. The lower wall portion 72 is provided along the entire length of the end body 70 in the third direction D3. The dimension of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3 is substantially the same as the dimension of the top surface portion 511 of the cover body 50 in the third direction D3. In Embodiment 2, the dimension of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3 is slightly larger than the dimension of the top surface portion 511 in the third direction D3 (see Figure 25).

[0176] The side wall portion 73 is formed to be elongated in the second direction D2. The two side wall portions 73 extend from both ends of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3, along both side edges of the end body 70. Each side wall portion 73 has a first side wall portion 731 extending upward from the end edge of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3, and a second side wall portion 732 extending diagonally upward from the upper end of the first side wall portion 731. The dimension of the first side wall portion 731 in the second direction D2 is smaller than the dimension of the second side wall portion 732 in the second direction D2.

[0177] The first side wall portion 731 extends directly upward from the edge of the lower wall portion 72 and is not inclined in the third direction D3. The dimension of the first side wall portion 731 in the second direction D2 is substantially the same as the dimension of the first side plate portion 531 of the cover body 50 in the second direction D2. In Embodiment 2, the dimension of the first side wall portion 731 in the second direction D2 is slightly larger than the dimension of the first side plate portion 531 in the second direction D2 (see Figure 25).

[0178] The second side wall portion 732 extends diagonally upward and outward from the upper end of the first side wall portion 731. That is, the second side wall portion 732 is inclined so that it moves outward in the third direction D3 as it goes upward. The dimension of the second side wall portion 732 in the second direction D2 is substantially the same as the dimension of the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50 in the second direction D2 (see Figure 25).

[0179] The upper wall portion 74 is formed to be elongated in the third direction D3. The upper wall portion 74 extends in the third direction D3 along the upper edge of the end body 70. The upper wall portion 74 connects the upper ends of the two second side wall portions 732 in the third direction D3. Two recesses 741 are formed on the upper surface of the upper wall portion 74 to avoid the two protrusions 34 of the support member 3.

[0180] The inner wall portion 75 is formed to be elongated in the third direction D3. The inner wall portion 75 is positioned slightly below the center of the end body 70. The inner wall portion 75 is parallel to the lower wall portion 72. The inner wall portion 75 connects the two side wall portions 73. More specifically, the inner wall portion 75 connects the position where the first side wall portion 731 and the second side wall portion 732 connect in one side wall portion 73 (i.e., the upper end of the first side wall portion 731 and the lower end of the second side wall portion 732) and the position where the first side wall portion 731 and the second side wall portion 732 connect in the other side wall portion 73 (i.e., the upper end of the first side wall portion 731 and the lower end of the second side wall portion 732).

[0181] As shown in Figure 24, the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 in the first direction D1, the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 in the first direction D1, and the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 in the first direction D1 are in the same position (flush). Also, the end face 730 of the side wall portion 73 in the first direction D1 (see Figures 21 and 22) is in the same position (flush) as the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 in the first direction D1, the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 in the first direction D1, and the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 in the first direction D1.

[0182] The end face of the wall portion 71 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 is shaped to abut against the end face of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 (see Figures 23 and 24). More specifically, the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1, the end faces 730 of the two side wall portions 73 in the first direction D1 (see Figures 21 and 22), the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 in the first direction D1, and the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 of the cover end 54 are abutted against the end faces of the top surface portion 511, the two side plate portions 53, the extension portion 55, and the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1, respectively.

[0183] (1-4-3) End Rib The end rib 81 protrudes along the first direction D1 from (a portion of) the end face of the wall portion 71 in the first direction D1. The end rib 81 is provided along the wall portion 71.

[0184] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the end rib 81 includes a top rib 82, two side ribs 83, two guide ribs 84, and an inner rib 85.

[0185] The top surface rib 82 is plate-shaped with thickness in the second direction D2. The top surface rib 82 protrudes from the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 along the first direction D1. The top surface rib 82 extends along the upper surface of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3. The top surface rib 82 is formed along the entire length of the lower wall portion 72 in the third direction D3. The dimension (thickness) of the top surface rib 82 in the second direction D2 is smaller than the dimension of the lower wall portion 72 in the second direction D2. Therefore, a step is formed between the lower surface of the top surface rib 82 and the portion of the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 where the top surface rib 82 is not formed.

[0186] The side rib 83 is plate-shaped and has thickness in the third direction D3. The side rib 83 protrudes from the end face 730 of the side wall portion 73 along the first direction D1.

[0187] Each side rib 83 has a first side rib 831 and a second side rib 832.

[0188] The two first side ribs 831 are provided along the inner surfaces of the two first side wall portions 731 in the third direction D3. The two first side ribs 831 extend upward from both ends of the top side rib 82 in the third direction D3. The two first side ribs 831 and the top side rib 82 form a U shape in a plan view from the first direction D1. The dimension of the first side rib 831 in the second direction D2 is smaller than the dimension of the first side wall portion 731 in the second direction D2. The dimension (thickness) of the first side rib 831 in the third direction D3 is smaller than the dimension of the first side wall portion 731 in the third direction D3. Therefore, a step is formed between the outer side surface of the first side rib 831 in the third direction D3 and the portion of the end face 7310 of the first side wall portion 731 where the first side ribs 831 are not formed.

[0189] The presence of a first side rib 831 on the side rib 83 can prevent misalignment of the optical panel 56 (see Figures 23 and 24) located within the housing space 572 in the first direction D1. If the first side rib 831 is absent, the end of the optical panel 56 in the first direction D1 may ride up onto the top side rib 82. In particular, if the end of the optical panel 56 in the first direction D1 is in the valley portion 560 between the prisms 561, the end of the optical panel 56 in the first direction D1 is more likely to ride up onto the top side rib 82. In contrast, the presence of a first side rib 831 on the side rib 83 makes it less likely for the optical panel 56 to ride up onto the top side rib 82, thereby preventing misalignment of the optical panel 56 in the first direction D1. Note that if the cover end 54 has a first side rib 831, misalignment of the optical panel 56 in the first direction D1 can be prevented even without a top side rib 82.

[0190] The two second side ribs 832 are provided along the inner surface in the third direction D3 of each of the two second side wall portions 732. The second side ribs 832 extend diagonally upward and outward along the inner surface in the third direction D3 of the second side wall portion 732. The dimension (thickness) of the second side rib 832 in the third direction D3 is smaller than the dimension of the second side wall portion 732 in the third direction D3. Therefore, a step is formed between the outer side surface of the second side rib 832 in the third direction D3 and the portion of the end face 7320 of the second side wall portion 732 where the second side rib 832 is not formed.

[0191] In each side rib 83, the first side rib 831 and the second side rib 832 are not connected in the second direction D2, and there is a gap 833 between them.

[0192] The guide ribs 84 protrude from the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 along the first direction D1. The two guide ribs 84 extend inward in the third direction D3 from the upper ends of the two second side ribs 832. The guide ribs 84 have a curved portion 841 where they connect with the second side ribs 832, which curves downward as it goes outward in the third direction D3 (see Figure 26). The tip 840 of the guide rib 84 on the inside of the third direction D3 is located in a position that overlaps with the joint portion 58 of the cover body 50 in the second direction D2 when viewed from the first direction D1 in plan view.

[0193] The inner rib 85 is plate-shaped with thickness in the second direction D2. The inner rib 85 protrudes from the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 along the first direction D1. The inner rib 85 extends along the upper surface of the inner wall portion 75 in the third direction D3. The inner rib 85 is formed along the entire length of the inner wall portion 75 in the third direction D3. The dimension (thickness) of the inner rib 85 in the second direction D2 is smaller than the dimension of the inner wall portion 75 in the second direction D2. Therefore, a step is formed between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the portion of the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 where the inner rib 85 is not formed.

[0194] The inner rib 85 connects the lower ends of the two second side ribs 832. The section where the inner rib 85 and the second side ribs 832 connect is a curved section 835. The two second side ribs 832 and the inner rib 85 form a U-shape in a plan view from the first direction D1, with the width increasing towards the top.

[0195] (1-4-4) Attaching the cover end to the cover body As described above, the end face of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 abuts against the end face of the wall portion 71 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1. This attaches the cover end 54 to the cover body 50. For the sake of explanation, the state in which the cover end 54 is attached to the cover body 50 will also be referred to as the "end attachment state" below.

[0196] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, in the end-mounted state, the gap between the portion of the end face of the wall portion 71 where the end rib 81 is not formed and the end face of the cover body 50 is substantially zero. In this disclosure, "substantially zero gap" means that the gap is 0.64 mm or less.

[0197] More specifically, in the end-mounted state, the gap between the portion of the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 where the top-side rib 82 is not formed and the end face of the top portion 511 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero. Also, in the end-mounted state, the gap between the portion of the end face 730 of the side wall portion 730 where the side rib 83 is not formed and the end face of the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero. Also, in the end-mounted state, the gap between the portion of the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 740 where the guide rib 84 is not formed and the end face of the extension portion 55 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero. Also, in the end-mounted state, the gap between the portion of the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 750 where the inner rib 85 is not formed and the end face of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero.

[0198] In other words, in Embodiment 2, when the end is attached, the portion of the end face of the wall portion 71 where the end rib 81 is not formed comes into contact with the end face of the cover body 50.

[0199] More specifically, in the end-mounted state, the portion of the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 in which the top-side rib 82 is not formed comes into contact with the end face of the top portion 511 of the cover body 50. Also, in the end-mounted state, the portion of the end face 730 of the side wall portion 73 in which the side rib 83 is not formed comes into contact with the end face of the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50. Also, in the end-mounted state, the portion of the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 in which the guide rib 84 is not formed comes into contact with the end face of the extension portion 55 of the cover body 50. Also, in the end-mounted state, the portion of the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 in which the inner rib 85 is not formed comes into contact with the end face of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50.

[0200] In the end-mounted state, the side rib 83 of the cover end 54 is located inside the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50. The side rib 83 also extends along the side plate portion 53. The first side rib 831 of the cover end 54 extends along the first side plate portion 531 of the cover body 50. The second side rib 832 of the cover end 54 extends along the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50. In the end-mounted state, the side rib 83 overlaps with the side plate portion 53 in the third direction D3.

[0201] In the end-mounted state, the gap between the outer surface of the side rib 83 in the third direction D3 and the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 in the third direction D3 is substantially zero. In Embodiment 2, the gap between the outer surface of the side rib 83 in the third direction D3 and the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 in the third direction D3 is substantially zero along the entire length of the side rib 83 in the second direction D2.

[0202] In the end-mounted state, the outer surface of the side rib 83 in the third direction D3 and the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 in the third direction D3 may be in contact. The outer surface of the side rib 83 in the third direction D3 and the inner surface of the side plate portion 53 in the third direction D3 may be in contact along the entire length of the side rib 83 in the second direction D2. In particular, the outer surface of the second side rib 832 in the third direction D3 and the inner surface of the second side plate portion 532 in the third direction D3 may be in contact along the entire length of the second side rib 832 in the second direction D2.

[0203] The presence of side ribs 83 on the cover end 54 prevents foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the side ribs 83 and the side plate portion 53, thereby preventing foreign objects such as insects from entering the space inside the cover 5. Furthermore, the fact that the gap between the portion of the end face 730 of the side wall portion 73 of the cover end 54 where the side ribs 83 are not formed and the end face of the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero further prevents foreign objects such as insects from entering the space inside the cover 5.

[0204] Here, the cover end 54 has a second side rib 832, which allows the inward curvature of the cover body 50 to be corrected. More specifically, the cover body 50 is manufactured, as described in Embodiment 1, for example, by extrusion molding. However, in this case, as the cover body 50 cools and hardens from its high temperature immediately after molding, the two side cover portions 52, particularly the second side plate portion 532, may shrink inward in the third direction D3 (inward curvature). In contrast, in Embodiment 2, when attaching the cover end 54 to the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1, the second side rib 832 of the cover end 54 contacts the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50 from the inside in the third direction D3, pushing the second side plate portion 532 outward. This can correct the inward curvature of the cover body 50. As a result, a decrease in the ease of assembly of the cover 5 can be suppressed.

[0205] In particular, the fact that the second side rib 832 extends diagonally outward upward allows for more effective correction of the inward curvature of the cover body 50 than if the second side rib 832 were to extend straight up.

[0206] Furthermore, in the end-mounted state, the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 is located above the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50. The inner rib 85 extends along the inner cover portion 512. Also, in the end-mounted state, the inner rib 85 overlaps with the inner cover portion 512 in the second direction D2.

[0207] In Embodiment 2, with the end attached, the inner rib 85 overlaps with the inner cover portion 512 in the second direction D2 over the entire length of the third direction D3. Therefore, the path connecting the internal space 571 and the storage space 572 of the cover body 50, passing between the inner cover portion 512 and the inner rib 85, bends at least once (twice in Embodiment 2). In other words, the cover 5 has a labyrinth structure in the path connecting the internal space 571 and the storage space 572.

[0208] In the end-mounted state, the gap between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 is substantially zero. In Embodiment 2, the gap between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 is substantially zero along the entire length of the inner rib 85 in the third direction D3.

[0209] In the end-mounted state, the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 may be in contact. The lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 may be in contact along the entire length of the inner rib 85 in the third direction D3.

[0210] The presence of an inner rib 85 in the cover end 54 prevents foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the inner rib 85 and the inner cover portion 512, thereby preventing foreign objects such as insects from entering the containment space 572 of the cover body 50. Furthermore, the fact that the gap between the portion of the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 of the cover end 54 where the inner rib 85 is not formed and the end face of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero further prevents foreign objects such as insects from entering the containment space 572.

[0211] Furthermore, in the end-mounted state, the top-side rib 82 of the cover end 54 is located above the top surface portion 511 of the cover body 50. The top-side rib 82 also extends along the top surface portion 511.

[0212] As shown in Figure 24, the distance between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 and the lower surface of the top rib 82 is greater than the distance between the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 and the upper surface of the top portion 511 of the cover body 50. Therefore, in the end-mounted state, the lower surface of the top rib 82 and the upper surface of the top portion 511 do not come into contact with each other, and a gap 820 is formed between the top rib 82 and the top portion 511. As a result, even if the distance between the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 and the upper surface of the top portion 511 becomes smaller than the design value due to manufacturing tolerances of the cover body 50, it is unlikely to become smaller than the distance between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the lower surface of the top rib 82. Therefore, problems such as being unable to attach the cover end 54 to the cover body 50 can be reduced.

[0213] The presence of a top-side rib 82 on the cover end 54 prevents foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the top-side rib 82 and the top surface portion 511, thereby preventing foreign objects such as insects from entering the storage space 572 of the cover body 50. Furthermore, the fact that the gap between the portion of the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54 where the top-side rib 82 is not formed and the end face of the top surface portion 511 of the cover body 50 is substantially zero further prevents foreign objects such as insects from entering the storage space 572.

[0214] Furthermore, in the end-mounted state, the guide rib 84 of the cover end 54 is located below the connecting piece 551 of the extension portion 55 of the cover body 50.

[0215] As shown in Figure 24, the distance between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 and the upper surface of the guide rib 84 is smaller than the distance between the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 and the lower surface of the connecting piece 551. Therefore, in the end-mounted state, the upper surface of the guide rib 84 and the lower surface of the connecting piece 551 do not come into contact with each other, and a gap 849 is formed between the guide rib 84 and the connecting piece 551.

[0216] The tip of the end rib 81 in the first direction D1 is chamfered. In Embodiment 2, the tip of the end rib 81 in the first direction D1 is chamfered (see Figures 23 and 24). That is, the tips of the top rib 82, the inner rib 85, the two side ribs 83, and the two guide ribs 84 in the first direction D1 are all chamfered. This allows the tip of the end rib 81 to guide the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 when attaching the cover end 54 to the cover body 50, potentially improving the workability of the assembly process. The tip of the end rib 81 in the first direction D1 may also be rounded.

[0217] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the protrusion dimension X1 of the top-side rib 82 in the first direction D1 is greater than the protrusion dimension X2 of the inner rib 85 in the first direction D1. Also, the tip of the top-side rib 82 in the first direction D1 protrudes further in the first direction D1 than the tip of the inner rib 85 in the first direction D1. Therefore, when assembling the cover end 54 to the cover body 50, the tip of the top-side rib 82 first contacts the end face of the cover body 50, followed by the tip of the inner rib 85. This makes the assembly process easier than if the tips of the top-side rib 82 and the inner rib 85 were in the same position in the first direction D1 and both tips contacted the end face of the cover body 50 simultaneously. As a result, a decrease in the ease of assembly of the cover 5 can be suppressed.

[0218] As shown in Figure 25, in the end-mounted state, in a plan view from the first direction D1, the outer side of the side wall portion 73 of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3 is located further outward than the outer side of the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 in the third direction D3. In other words, in the third direction D3, the cover end 54 protrudes further outward than the cover body 50. This allows the worker to hold the protruding portion of the cover end 54 when attaching or removing the light source unit A1 from the fixture body 6. This can improve the workability of tasks such as assembling the lighting fixture B1. Furthermore, when viewing the cover 5 from the outside in the first direction D1, the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 is hidden by the cover end 54, which can improve the aesthetic design of the lighting device.

[0219] Furthermore, in the end-mounted state, when viewed from the first direction D1 in a plan view, the lower surface of the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54 is located below the lower surface of the top portion 511 of the cover body 50. In other words, the cover end 54 protrudes downward from the cover body 50. As a result, when the cover 5 is viewed from outside the first direction D1, the top portion 511 of the cover body 50 is hidden by the cover end 54, which can improve the aesthetic design of the lighting device. In addition, it can reduce the likelihood of glare for people viewing the lighting device along the first direction D1.

[0220] In short, the top surface 511 and the two side plate portions 53 of the cover body 50 are positioned within the region R1 defined by the outer shape of the end body 70 when viewed from a plan view from the first direction D1 (see Figure 25). This can suppress a decrease in the ease of assembly of the cover 5. It can also suppress the feeling of glare experienced by people viewing the lighting device along the first direction D1.

[0221] (1-4-5) Inlet After being attached to the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1, the cover end 54 is fixed to the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1 using a fixing liquid. In Embodiment 2, the fixing liquid is a solvent, and the cover end 54 is fixed to the cover body 50 by resin welding using the solvent.

[0222] Therefore, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, the cover end 54 is provided with an inlet 76 (solvent inlet) for injecting a fixing liquid (solvent). In Embodiment 2, the cover end 54 is provided with multiple inlets 76. In Embodiment 2, the multiple inlets 76 include two outer inlets 761 and three inner inlets 762. Having multiple inlets 76 allows the cover end 54 to be fixed to the cover body 50 at multiple locations, improving the reliability of the fixation of the cover end 54.

[0223] The outer inlet 761 is provided on the upper surface of the upper wall portion 74 of the cover end 54. In other words, the outer inlet 761 is provided on the side of the cover end 54 on the side of the support member 3. In Embodiment 2, the outer inlet 761 includes a recess 7611 provided on the upper surface of the upper wall portion 74 of the cover end 54.

[0224] Each external inlet 761 is located at the end of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3. In Embodiment 2, the external inlet 761 is located at one end of the side surface of the cover end 54 on the support member 3 side in the third direction D3. In a plan view from the first direction D1, the external inlet 761 is located outside the joint 58 in the third direction D3.

[0225] Furthermore, the two external inlets 761 are provided at both ends of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3. In Embodiment 2, the two external inlets 761 are each provided at both ends of the side surface of the cover end 54 on the support member 3 side in the third direction D3.

[0226] The bottom of the recess 7611 of the outer inlet 761 is connected to the surface (upper surface) of the guide rib 84. The fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 flows along the surface of the guide rib 84 toward the outside in the third direction D3. The fixing liquid then spreads by capillary action to the interface between the outer side surface of the second side rib 832 in the third direction D3 and the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50, and also to the interface between the end face 7320 of the second side wall portion 732 in the first direction D1 and the second side plate portion 532. As a result, the second side rib 832 and the second side wall portion 732 are fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50, for example, by resin welding with a solvent as the fixing liquid.

[0227] The internal injection port 762 is located inside the space enclosed by the cover body 50 and the cover end 54 at the cover end 54. This allows the cover body 50 and the cover end 54 to be fixed from the inside of the cover 5, potentially improving the reliability of the fixation of the cover end 54.

[0228] In Embodiment 2, the inner injection port 762 is provided in the inner rib 85. Viewed from above, the end of the inner rib 85 in the first direction D1 covers the end of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1. The inner injection port 762 includes a recess 7621 formed in the inner rib 85 and recessed in the first direction D1. The recess 7621 is trapezoidal in shape, becoming narrower towards the end body 70. Note that the shape of the recess 7621 is not limited to a trapezoid; it may also be U-shaped, semicircular, rectangular, or the like.

[0229] The three internal injection ports 762 are provided at the tip of the internal rib 85 in the first direction D1, and aligned in the third direction D3. In Embodiment 2, the three internal injection ports 762 are provided at equal intervals.

[0230] The fixing liquid injected into the inner inlet 762 spreads by capillary action to the interface between the lower surface of the inner rib 85 and the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512. As a result, the inner rib 85 is fixed to the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50, for example, by resin welding using the solvent as the fixing liquid. The fixing of the inner rib 85 to the inner cover portion 512 can improve the reliability of the fixation of the cover end 54 to the cover body 50. In addition, the passage of foreign objects such as insects through the gap between the inner rib 85 and the inner cover portion 512 can be further suppressed.

[0231] In Embodiment 2, all three internal inlets 762 are positioned so as to overlap with the opening 500 of the cover 5 in the second direction D2 when viewed from a plan view from a first direction D1 (see Figures 25 and 27). That is, the cover 5 has an opening 500 between the side pieces 552 of the two extensions 55 of the cover body 50 when viewed from the support member 3 side. The cover end 54 has three internal inlets 762 positioned so as to overlap with the opening 500 of the cover 5 in the second direction D2 when viewed from a plan view from a first direction D1. In this disclosure, "the internal inlets 762 overlap with the opening 500 in the second direction D2" means that at least a portion of the internal inlets 762 overlaps with the opening 500 in the second direction D2.

[0232] Since the three internal inlets 762 are all positioned to overlap with the opening 500, the worker (or work equipment) performing the task of fixing the cover end 54 to the cover body 50 can inject the fixing liquid into the internal inlets 762 through the opening 500. This improves the work efficiency of fixing the cover end 54 to the cover body 50.

[0233] In Embodiment 2, the central of the three inner inlets 762 is entirely inside the opening 500 in the third direction D3. On the other hand, the remaining two outer inlets of the three inner inlets 762 are positioned so as to overlap with the periphery (side piece 552) of the opening 500 of the cover 5 in the second direction D2 when viewed from the first direction D1 in plan. This allows the distance between the three inner inlets 762 in the third direction D3 to be maximized while being limited to overlapping with the opening 500. This allows the inner rib 85 and the inner cover portion 512 to be fixed over a wide area in the third direction D3, improving the reliability of the fixation of the cover end 54.

[0234] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, all of the multiple inlet ports 76 (including the outer inlet port 761 and the inner inlet port 762) are open in the same direction (upward in Embodiment 2). Therefore, the worker (or work equipment) performing the work of fixing the cover end 54 to the cover body 50 can inject the fixing liquid into the multiple inlet ports 76 from the same side (upward in Embodiment 2). This improves the work efficiency of fixing the cover end 54 to the cover body 50.

[0235] To explain in more detail, if the inlets 76 are open in different directions, it is necessary to sequentially inject the fixing liquid into multiple inlets 76 while changing the orientation of the cover 5. However, changing the orientation of the cover 5 changes the direction in which the fixing liquid flows due to gravity. Therefore, if the orientation of the cover 5 is changed to inject fixing liquid into another inlet 76 after injecting fixing liquid into one inlet 76, it is necessary to wait for the injected fixing liquid to finish flowing and drying. This leads to an extension of working time and a deterioration of work efficiency. On the other hand, if all inlets 76 are open in the same direction, it is possible to sequentially inject the fixing liquid without changing the orientation of the cover 5. As a result, the work efficiency of fixing the cover end 54 can be improved.

[0236] In Embodiment 2, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 can fix the end face 7320 of the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50. Also, the outer side surface of the second side rib 832 of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3 can be fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50. Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the fixing liquid injected into the inner inlet 762 can fix the lower surface of the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 to the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50. Also, the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 can be fixed to the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50. In Figure 28, the area in which the cover end 54 and the cover body 50 are fixed is schematically shown with dot hatching.

[0237] In Embodiment 2, as described above, the side rib 83 has a gap 833 between the second side rib 832 and the first side rib 831. As a result, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 and flowing downward along the surface of the second side rib 832 has difficulty reaching the first side rib 831. In other words, the side rib 83 has a cut-off portion 834 (gap 833) that prevents the fixing liquid from reaching the top side rib 82. This makes it difficult for the fixing liquid to reach the top side rib 82.

[0238] If the fixing liquid were to reach the top rib 82, the transparent top surface 511 could be discolored (whitened if the fixing solution is a solvent) by the fixing liquid. In contrast, in Embodiment 2, the side rib 83 has an edge-cutting portion 834, which can suppress discoloration of the top surface 511.

[0239] Note that the edge-cutting portion 834 does not have to be a gap 833. For example, the first side rib 831 and the second side rib 832 may be connected, and an uneven structure serving as the edge-cutting portion 834 may be provided at the joint between the first side rib 831 and the second side rib 832.

[0240] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the lower end of the second side rib 832 is connected to the inner rib 85. In particular, the lower end of the second side rib 832 and the inner rib 85 are connected via a curved portion 835. As a result, the fixing liquid that flows downward along the surface of the second side rib 832 is more likely to pass through the surface of the curved portion 835 to the inner rib 85, making it less likely to reach the first side rib 831. Therefore, discoloration of the top surface portion 511 can be further suppressed.

[0241] (1-4-6) Inhibitory structure As described above, the cover end 54 is fixed to the cover body 50 using a fixing liquid (solvent). Here, with the cover end 54 fixed to the cover body 50, the upper wall portion 74 of the cover end 54 is not fixed to the cover body 50. Therefore, the extension portion 55 and the connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50 are movable relative to the cover end 54.

[0242] If the extension portion 55 and connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50 were fixed to the cover end 54, the side cover portion 52 might not be able to flex sufficiently at the end in the first direction D1 when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, the upper wall portion 74 of the cover end 54 is not fixed to the cover body 50. As a result, the side cover portion 52 can flex sufficiently even at the end in the first direction D1, which can improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0243] In Embodiment 2, the guide rib 84 has an obstructing structure to facilitate the non-fixation of the upper wall portion 74 of the cover end 54 to the cover body 50. In this disclosure, "obstructing structure" means a structure that prevents the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 from flowing towards the joint portion 58 of the cover body 50.

[0244] To explain the obstruction structure in more detail, in a plan view from the first direction D1, the inner tip 840 of the guide rib 84 in the third direction D3 is located in a position that coincides with the joint 58 of the cover body 50 in the second direction D2 (see Figure 28). In other words, in a plan view from the first direction D1, the tip 840 of the guide rib 84 is in the same position as the joint 58 in the direction where the outer inlet 761 and the joint 58 are aligned (third direction D3). With this structure, the fixing liquid that flows along the surface of the guide rib 84 toward the inside in the third direction D3 and reaches the tip 840 of the guide rib 84 will fall downward due to gravity. Therefore, the fixing liquid is less likely to flow inward beyond the tip 840 of the guide rib 84 in the third direction D3. In other words, the tip 840 of the guide rib 84 in the third direction D3 is positioned to overlap with the joint 58 of the cover body 50 in the second direction D2, making it difficult for the fixing liquid to flow toward the parts that are not to be fixed (the extension 55 and joint 58 of the cover body 50). Note that the inner tip 840 of the guide rib 84 in the third direction D3 may be located between the outer inlet 761 and the joint 58 in a plan view from the first direction D1.

[0245] Furthermore, the guide rib 84 is separated from the extension 55 of the cover body 50 without contact. Therefore, the fixing liquid flowing on the surface of the guide rib 84 is less likely to reach the extension 55. This makes it even more difficult for the fixing liquid to flow towards the parts that are not to be fixed (the extension 55 and the connecting part 58 of the cover body 50).

[0246] Furthermore, as another obstructing structure, the guide rib 84 has a curved portion 841 where it connects to the second side rib 832. The curved portion 841 is curved so that it moves away from the outer inlet 761 as it goes outward in the third direction D3 (the direction in which the outer inlet 761 and the connecting portion 58 are aligned). In a plan view from the first direction D1, the curved portion 841 is arc-shaped. With this structure, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 is more likely to flow along the surface of the guide rib 84 outward rather than inward in the third direction D3. As a result, it is made more difficult for the fixing liquid to flow toward the parts that are not to be fixed (the extended portion 55 and the connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50).

[0247] Also, from the perspective of facilitating the flow of the fixing liquid to the outside in the third direction D3, the bottom of the recess 7611 of the outer injection port 761 has a curved surface that connects to the curved portion 841 of the guide rib 84. Thereby, the fixing liquid can be made more difficult to flow toward the portions (the extension portion 55 and the coupling portion 58 of the cover body 50) where fixing is not desired.

[0248] (1-4-7) Auxiliary rib The cover end 54 further has a first auxiliary rib 86 and two second auxiliary ribs 87.

[0249] The first auxiliary rib 86 is plate-shaped with a thickness in the second direction D2. The first auxiliary rib 86 protrudes in the first direction D1 from the end face 740 in the first direction D1 at the central portion of the upper wall portion 74. That is, the first auxiliary rib 8 is along the first direction D1 from the surface of the end body 70 that faces the cover body 50 (in Embodiment 2, the surface of the upper wall portion 74 that faces the cover body 50).

[0250] The first auxiliary rib 86 extends in the third direction D3 along the lower surface of the upper wall portion 74. The dimension (thickness) of the first auxiliary rib 86 in the second direction D2 is larger than the dimension of the upper wall portion 74 in the second direction D2. The upper surface of the first auxiliary rib 86 is located above the upper surface of the upper wall portion 74. Therefore, the first auxiliary rib 86 protrudes above the end body 70 and the wall portion 71.

[0251] In the end attachment state, the first auxiliary rib 86 is adjacent to the side piece 552 (the protruding rib 559) of the extension portion 55 of the cover body 50 in the third direction D3.

[0252] The dimension of the first auxiliary rib 86 in the third direction D3 is slightly smaller than the distance in the third direction D3 between the side pieces 552 of the main piece 550 of the two extensions 55 of the cover body 50. Therefore, there is a gap between the first auxiliary rib 86 and the side piece 552 in the third direction D3. This gap may be filled with a gap-filling member such as an elastomer. The gap-filling member may be provided on the first auxiliary rib 86, on the side piece 552, or separately from both the first auxiliary rib 86 and the side piece 552.

[0253] The presence of the first auxiliary rib 86 on the cover end 54 prevents foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3, thereby preventing foreign objects such as insects from entering the internal space 571 of the cover body 50.

[0254] The two second auxiliary ribs 87 are positioned on the end face 740 of the upper wall portion 74 in a first direction D1, with the first auxiliary rib 86 sandwiched between them in a third direction D3. The second auxiliary ribs 87 protrude along the first direction D1 from the surface of the end body 70 facing the cover body 50 (in Embodiment 2, the surface of the upper wall portion 74 facing the cover body 50). In the third direction D3, the first auxiliary rib 86 and the two second auxiliary ribs 87 are arranged in the order of one second auxiliary rib 87, the first auxiliary rib 86, and the other second auxiliary rib 87.

[0255] The upper surface of the second auxiliary rib 87 is located above the upper surface of the upper wall portion 74. Therefore, the second auxiliary rib 87 protrudes above the end body 70 and the wall portion 71. The upper surface of the second auxiliary rib 87 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the first auxiliary rib 86.

[0256] In the end-mounted state, the second auxiliary rib 87 is adjacent to the side piece 552 (protruding rib 559) of the extension portion 55 of the cover body 50 in the third direction D3.

[0257] The presence of a second auxiliary rib 87 on the cover end 54 helps to prevent foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3, thereby preventing foreign objects such as insects from entering the internal space 571 of the cover body 50.

[0258] As described in Embodiment 1, when the cover 5 is attached to the support member 3, a force is applied from the support piece 31 to the joint portion 58 of the cover body 50, causing the side cover portion 52 to deform and bend, with the point where it connects to the inner cover portion 512 as a fulcrum. As a result, the two side pieces 552 (protruding ribs 559) move away from each other toward the outside in the third direction D3. However, the movement of the side pieces 552 is inhibited by the side pieces 552 contacting the second auxiliary rib 87. In other words, the cover end 54 has the second auxiliary rib 87, which suppresses excessive opening (excessive bending) of the side cover portion 52 of the cover body 50.

[0259] Furthermore, the presence of a second auxiliary rib 87 at the cover end 54 makes it less likely for the cover body 50 to unintentionally open outward in the third direction D3. This helps to prevent the cover 5 from detaching from the support member 3 while it is attached to the support member 3.

[0260] (1-5) Advantages of Embodiment 2 In Embodiment 2, the cover end 54 has an external inlet 761, and the guide rib 84 for directing the fixing liquid injected into the external inlet 761 has an obstruction structure that prevents the fixing liquid from flowing towards the joint 58. Therefore, it is made more difficult to direct the fixing liquid toward the parts that are not to be fixed (the extension 55 and joint 58 of the cover body 50), and it becomes easier to make the extension 55 and joint 58 of the cover body 50 movable relative to the cover end 54. This can suppress a decrease in workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0261] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the cover end 54 has an internal inlet 762 for injecting a fixing liquid into the space enclosed by the cover body 50 and the cover end 54. This allows the cover body 50 and the cover end 54 to be fixed from the inside of the cover 5, which can improve the reliability of fixing the cover end 54.

[0262] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the cover end 54 has an inner rib 85 that overlaps with the inner cover portion 512 in the second direction D2 and along the entire length of the third direction D3 when the end is attached. This can suppress the entry of foreign objects such as insects into the containment space 572 through the gap between the inner cover portion 512 and the inner rib 85.

[0263] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the cover end 54 has a side rib 83 that extends along the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50 when the end is attached. This allows the cover end 54 to be attached to the cover body 50 by aligning the side rib 83 of the cover end 54 with the side plate portion 53 of the cover body 50, thereby suppressing a decrease in the ease of assembly of the cover 5.

[0264] (2) Variant Several modifications of the light source unit A1 according to Embodiment 2 will be described below. However, the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 in each of the modifications described below is the same as the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 according to Embodiment 2. Therefore, components that are common or substantially common with the basic configuration of the light source unit A1 according to Embodiment 2 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their illustration and description will be omitted as appropriate. Note that each of the modifications described below can be appropriately combined with Embodiment 1, modifications of Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2, and other modifications of Embodiment 2.

[0265] (2-1) Variation 1 As shown in FIG. 30, the radius of curvature of the curved portion 841 of the guiding rib 84 may be larger than the radius of curvature of the curved portion 841 in Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, the center of the arc-shaped curved portion 841 is within the range of the outer injection port 761 in the third direction D3. On the other hand, in Modified Example 1, in the third direction D3, the center of the arc-shaped curved portion 841 is inside the inner end portion of the outer injection port 761 in the third direction D3. Further, in Modified Example 1, in the third direction D3, the entire outer injection port 761 overlaps with the curved portion 841.

[0266] According to the cover end 54 of Modified Example 1, the fixing liquid injected into the outer injection port 761 can be made more difficult to flow toward the portion where fixing is not desired, and the extending portion 55 and the coupling portion 58 of the cover body 50 can be made more easily movable with respect to the cover end 54. Thereby, the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3 can be improved.

[0267] (2-2) Modified Example 2 As shown in FIG. 31, the inner tip 840 of the guiding rib 84 in the third direction D3 may be located near the extending portion 55 as long as it does not contact the extending portion 55 of the cover body 50. In Modified Example 2, the tip 840 of the guiding rib 84 extends further inside in the third direction D3 than in Embodiment 2. In Modified Example 2, the size of the gap between the guiding rib 84 and the extending portion 55 (base portion 554) in the third direction D3 is approximately the same as the size of the gap between the guiding rib 84 and the extending portion 55 (connecting piece 551) in the second direction D2.

[0268] According to the cover end 54 of Modified Example 2, the fixing liquid injected into the outer injection port 761 can be made difficult to reach the inner tip 840 of the guiding rib 84 in the third direction D3. Further, when the side cover portion 52 of the cover body 50 is bent inward, there is also an effect that the inward bending of the side cover portion 52 can be corrected by the tip 840 of the guiding rib 84 hitting the extending portion 55 of the side cover portion 52.

[0269] (2-3) Modified Example 3 As shown in Figure 32, the guide rib 84 may have an inclined portion 842. The inclined portion 842 is inclined so that it moves away from the outer inlet 761 as it goes outward in the third direction D3 (the direction in which the outer inlet 761 and the joint portion 58 are aligned). The outer tip of the inclined portion 842 in the third direction D3 is connected to the curved portion 841.

[0270] According to the cover end 54 of the modified example 3, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 is made less likely to flow towards the part that is not to be fixed, and the extension portion 55 and connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50 are made more movable relative to the cover end 54. This can improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0271] (2-4) Modifications 4 and 5 As shown in Figures 33 and 34, the cover end 54 may further have a restricting rib 88. The restricting rib 88 restricts the movement of the inner cover portion 512 toward the top surface portion 511 when the end is attached.

[0272] The restricting rib 88 is located between the inner cover portion 512 and the top surface portion 511 when the end is attached. The restricting rib 88 contacts the lower surface of the end of the inner cover portion 512 in the first direction D1 from below, thereby restricting the movement of the inner cover portion 512 toward the top surface portion 511. The presence of the restricting rib 88 on the cover end 54 can suppress bending of the inner cover portion 512.

[0273] Furthermore, the regulating rib 88 also has the function of correcting the warping of the inner cover portion 512. To explain in more detail, the cover body 50 is manufactured by, for example, an extrusion molding method, as described in Embodiment 1. However, in this case, as the cover body 50 cools and hardens from its high temperature immediately after molding, the inner cover portion 512 may warp upwards (upward warping) or downwards (upward warping). Upward warping of the inner cover portion 512 can be corrected when the cover end 54 is attached to the cover body 50, as the inner rib 85 contacts the inner cover portion 512 from above. On the other hand, if the inner cover portion 512 is warped downwards, the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512 will separate from the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 when the end is attached. As a result, it may become impossible to fix the inner cover portion 512 to the inner rib 85 using a fixing liquid.

[0274] In contrast, the presence of a regulating rib 88 on the cover end 54 allows the end of the inner cover portion 512 in the first direction D1 to be sandwiched between the regulating rib 88 and the inner rib 85, thereby correcting the curvature (downward curvature) of the inner cover portion 512. This makes it easier to bring the lower surface of the inner rib 85 into contact with the upper surface of the inner cover portion 512, improving the reliability of the fixation when fixing the inner rib 85 to the inner cover portion 512 using a fixing liquid. Furthermore, correcting the curvature of the inner cover portion 512 makes it easier to achieve the desired optical properties of the cover 5.

[0275] In Modification 4, as shown in Figure 33, the regulating rib 88 includes three longitudinal ribs 881. Each longitudinal rib 881 extends upward from the upper surface of the top rib 82. The outer end of each longitudinal rib 881 in the first direction D1 is connected to the end body 70. The inner tip of each longitudinal rib 881 in the first direction D1 is substantially flush with the inner tip of the top rib 82 in the first direction D1. Each of the three longitudinal ribs 881 is located below the three recesses 7621 (inner injection ports 762) of the inner rib 85 and overlaps with the recesses 7621 in the second direction D2. There is a gap between each longitudinal rib 881 and the inner rib 85. The size of the gap between each longitudinal rib 881 and the inner rib 85 in the second direction D2 is substantially the same as, or slightly larger than, the dimension (thickness) of the inner cover portion 512 in the second direction D2. The upper corner (the side facing the inner rib 85) of the inner end of each longitudinal rib 881 in the first direction D1 is chamfered (in this case, C-chamfered).

[0276] The number of vertical ribs 881 is not limited to three; it may be one, two, or four or more. Furthermore, the vertical ribs 881 may be positioned so as not to overlap with the recesses 7621 of the inner ribs 85.

[0277] In modified example 5, as shown in Figure 34, the regulating rib 88 includes a transverse rib 882. The transverse rib 882 is located below the inner rib 85 on the inner surface of the end body 70 in a first direction D1, and extends parallel to the inner rib 85 in a third direction D3. The dimension (length) of the transverse rib 882 in the third direction D3 is greater than the distance between the two end recesses 7621 (inner injection port 762) of the three recesses 7621 (inner injection port 762) of the inner rib 85. In the second direction D2, the transverse rib 882 overlaps with all three recesses 7621 of the inner rib 85. The dimension (length) of the transverse rib 882 in the third direction D3 is smaller than the dimension (length) of the inner rib 85 in the third direction D3. The tip of the transverse rib 882 in the first direction D1 is chamfered (here, C-chamfered).

[0278] The number of transverse ribs 882 is not limited to one; there may be two or more. Two or more transverse ribs 882 may be arranged with gaps in the third direction D3.

[0279] (2-5) Modification 6 As shown in Figure 35, both sides of the second portion 702 of the end body 70 at the cover end 54 in the third direction D3 may include a first inclined surface portion 7021 and a second inclined surface portion 7022. The first inclined surface portion 7021 is connected to the upper end of the straight portion 7010 of the first portion 701 and is inclined so as it goes upwards it goes outward in the third direction D3. The second inclined surface portion 7022 is connected to the upper end of the first inclined surface portion 7021 and is inclined so as it goes upwards it goes inward in the third direction D3. In modified example 5, the upper end of the second inclined surface portion 7022 is inclined more inward in the third direction D3 than the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50.

[0280] In modification 6, when attaching the light source unit A1 to the fixture body 6 or removing the light source unit A1 from the fixture body 6, the worker can hold the protruding part of the cover end 54 while working, which can improve the workability of tasks such as assembling the lighting fixture B1.

[0281] (2-6) Modifications 7, 8 The external inlet 761 may be located at a position other than the upper surface of the cover end 54.

[0282] In modified example 7, as shown in Figure 36, the outer inlet 761 is provided on the outer side surface of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3. The outer inlet 761 includes a recess 7612 provided near the upper end of the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54. The recess 7612 of the outer inlet 761 is provided in the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54 at a position that overlaps with the upper end of the second side rib 832.

[0283] In modified example 7, the end face 7320 of the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 can be fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50 by the fixing liquid injected into the outer injection port 761. In addition, the outer side surface of the second side rib 832 of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3 can be fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50. In Figure 37, the area in which the cover end 54 and the cover body 50 are fixed is schematically shown with dot hatching.

[0284] According to the cover end 54 of Modification 7, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 is made less likely to flow towards the part that is not to be fixed, and the extension portion 55 and connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50 are made more movable relative to the cover end 54. This can improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0285] In modified example 8, as shown in Figure 38, the outer inlet 761 includes a recess 7613 provided in the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54. The recess 7613 of the outer inlet 761 is located in the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54, below the upper end of the second side rib 832. In Figure 39, the area where the cover end 54 and the cover body 50 are fixed is schematically shown with dot hatching.

[0286] According to the cover end 54 of Modification 8, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 is made less likely to flow towards the part that is not to be fixed, and the extension portion 55 and connecting portion 58 of the cover body 50 are made more movable relative to the cover end 54. This can improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3. In addition, at the end of the cover body 50 in the first direction D1, the part of the side cover portion 52 that can bend (the part not fixed to the cover end 54) is made larger, which can further improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0287] (2-7) Modification 9 In modified example 9, as shown in Figure 40, the outer inlet 761 includes a recess 7614 located near the lower end of the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54. The recess 7614 of the outer inlet 761 is located in the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54, overlapping with the lower end of the second side rib 832.

[0288] In modified example 9, for instance, the worker (or work equipment) can inject the fixing liquid into the outer inlet 761 with the cover end 54 attached to the cover body 50 and the opening 500 of the cover 5 facing vertically downward.

[0289] In modified example 9, the end face 7320 of the second side wall portion 732 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 can be fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50 by the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761. In addition, the outer side surface of the second side rib 832 of the cover end 54 in the third direction D3 can be fixed to the second side plate portion 532 of the cover body 50. In Figure 41, the area in which the cover end 54 and the cover body 50 are fixed is schematically shown with dot hatching. Note that in Figure 41, the image is shown upside down for ease of explanation.

[0290] In modified example 9, the inner rib 85 is not fixed to the inner cover portion 512 from the viewpoint of ease of fixing work. Therefore, the inner rib 85 does not need to have an inner inlet 762.

[0291] According to the cover end 54 of the modified example 9, fixing liquid can be injected into the two external inlets 761 provided on both sides of the third direction D3 without changing the orientation of the cover 5. Therefore, the workability of fixing the cover end 54 can be improved.

[0292] (2-8) Modification 10 In modification 10, as shown in Figure 42, the outer inlet 761 is provided on the lower surface of the cover end 54. In other words, the outer inlet 761 is provided on the side of the cover end 54 opposite to the side of the support member 3.

[0293] The lower wall portion 72 is provided with three external inlet ports 761. The three external inlet ports 761 are arranged in a line in the third direction D3.

[0294] The outer inlet 761 includes a recess 7615 provided in the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54. The bottom surface of the recess 7615 is connected to the lower surface of the top rib 82.

[0295] In modified example 10, for instance, the worker (or work equipment) can inject the fixing liquid into the outer inlet 761 with the cover end 54 attached to the cover body 50 and the opening 500 of the cover 5 facing vertically downward.

[0296] In modification 10, the fixing liquid injected into the outer inlet 761 can fix the end face 720 of the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 to the top surface portion 511 of the cover body 50. In addition, the lower surface of the top surface side rib 82 of the cover end 54 can be fixed to the top surface portion 511 of the cover body 50.

[0297] Furthermore, in the modified example 10, the lower surface of the inner rib 85 of the cover end 54 can be fixed to the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50 by the fixing liquid injected into the inner inlet 762. Also, the end face 750 of the inner wall portion 75 of the cover end 54 in the first direction D1 can be fixed to the inner cover portion 512 of the cover body 50. In Figure 43, the area in which the cover end 54 and the cover body 50 are fixed is schematically shown with dot hatching. Note that in Figure 43, the image is shown upside down for the sake of explanation.

[0298] According to the cover end 54 of the modified example 10, fixing liquid can be injected into the three external injection ports 761 provided on the lower wall portion 72 of the cover end 54 without changing the orientation of the cover 5. Therefore, the workability of fixing the cover end 54 can be improved. In addition, at the end of the cover body 50 fixed to the cover end 54 in the first direction D1, the portion of the side cover portion 52 that can bend (the portion not fixed to the cover end 54) is increased, which can further improve the workability when attaching the cover 5 to the support member 3.

[0299] In addition, in the modified example 10, as in the modified example 9, the inner rib 85 does not need to be fixed to the inner cover portion 512 from the viewpoint of ease of fixing work. In that case, the inner rib 85 does not need to have an inner injection port 762.

[0300] (2-9) Variation 11 As shown in Figure 44, the cover end 54 may further include a closing member 89 that closes all or part of the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3 at the end in the first direction D1.

[0301] In modified example 11, the closure member 89 is formed from an elastic material. The closure member 89 is formed from, for example, an elastomer. The cover end 54, which includes the closure member 89, can be manufactured by a multi-color molding method such as two-color extrusion molding.

[0302] The closing member 89 is positioned on the upper surface of the first auxiliary rib 86 and integrally includes a plate-shaped fixing portion 891 that is long in the third direction D3, and an elastic portion 892 that extends diagonally toward the support member 3 from the inner tip of the fixing portion 891 in the first direction D1.

[0303] In the closing member 89, when the cover 5 is attached to the support member 3, the elastic portion 892 elastically contacts the lower surface of the support member 3. This closes the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3 at the end in the first direction D1 (see Figure 45). Note that in Figure 45, the closing member 89 is shown with dot hatching for illustrative purposes.

[0304] In modified example 11, even if a gap occurs between the cover 5 and the support member 3, the closing member 89 can seal the gap. This can prevent foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3.

[0305] (2-10) Variations 12, 13 The closing member 89 may be separate from the end body 70 and may be mounted on the first auxiliary rib 86. The closing member 89 may be, for example, a packing 893 (see Figures 47 and 49).

[0306] At the cover end 54, when the cover 5 is attached to the support member 3, the packing 893 elastically contacts the lower surface of the support member 3 and is compressed. The compressed packing 893 then seals the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3 at the end in the first direction D1. From the viewpoint of reducing light leakage from the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3, the packing 893 does not have to be transparent. The packing 893 may be, for example, white or black.

[0307] In modified example 12, as shown in Figure 46, the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87 are formed thinner than the upper wall portion 74, and there is a step between the upper surfaces of the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87 and the upper wall portion 74. As a result, placement recesses 861 are formed on the upper surfaces of the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87. The placement recesses 861 can be used as markers when placing the packing 893 on the first auxiliary rib 86.

[0308] In the example shown in Figure 47, the packing 893 is sized to span the first auxiliary rib 86 and the two second auxiliary ribs 87 in the third direction D3, but it may also be sized to rest only on the first auxiliary rib 86.

[0309] In modified example 13, as shown in Figure 48, the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87 are formed to be thicker than the upper wall portion 74, and there is a step between the upper surfaces of the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87 and the upper wall portion 74. As a result, placement protrusions 862 are formed on the upper surfaces of the first auxiliary rib 86 and the second auxiliary rib 87. The placement protrusions 862 can be used as markers when placing the packing 893 on the first auxiliary rib 86.

[0310] In the example shown in Figure 49, the packing 893 is sized to span the first auxiliary rib 86 and the two second auxiliary ribs 87 in the third direction D3, but it may also be sized to rest only on the first auxiliary rib 86.

[0311] In modified examples 12 and 13, the packing 893 can prevent foreign objects such as insects from passing through the gap between the cover 5 and the support member 3.

[0312] (Variation 14) In Embodiment 2, the fixing liquid used to secure the cover end 54 to the cover body 50 is a solvent, but the fixing liquid is not limited to a solvent. The fixing liquid may be, for example, an adhesive.

[0313] [Aspect] As shown in the embodiments and modifications, this disclosure includes the following aspects:

[0314] The first embodiment of the lighting device (light source unit A1) comprises a long light source (light source module 1), a support member (3) that is long in the longitudinal direction of the light source and supports the light source, and a cover (5) that is long in the longitudinal direction and is supported by the support member (3) so as to cover the light source. The cover (5) comprises a cover body (50) and an optical panel (56). The cover body (50) has a top surface (511), an inner cover part (512), and two side cover parts (52). The top surface (511) is flat, light-transmitting, and faces the support member (3) at a distance. The inner cover part (512) has light-transmitting and light-diffusing properties, is positioned between the top surface (511) and the support member (3), and faces both the top surface (511) and the support member (3) at a distance. Each of the two side cover portions (52) has a side plate portion (53) extending from the short edge of the top surface portion (511) toward the support member (3), and a connecting portion (58) that is closer to the support member (3) than the side plate portion (53) and is connected to the support member (3). The short direction is the direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the top surface portion (511) and the support member (3) face each other and the longitudinal direction. The optical panel (56) is positioned between the top surface portion (511) and the inner cover portion (512). The inner cover portion (512) has a protrusion (5122) on the opposing surface (5121) facing the top surface portion (511) that projects toward the top surface portion (511).

[0315] According to this embodiment, the optical panel (56) can be more easily positioned in the intended location within the housing space (572) between the top surface (511) and the inner cover (512), making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0316] In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the inner cover portion (512) is stretched between the two side plate portions (53), and the inner cover portion (512) and the two side plate portions (53) are integral.

[0317] This embodiment has the advantage that light can be emitted to the outside from the top surface (511) of the cover (5) that covers the light source, and the uniformity of the light emission intensity of the entire top surface (511) as observed from the outside can be increased. It also has the advantage that damage to the cover body (50) can be suppressed, and separation of the side cover portion (52) and the inner cover portion (512) can be suppressed.

[0318] In the third embodiment, the inner cover portion (512) and the two side plate portions (53) are integrally molded as in the second embodiment.

[0319] This embodiment has the advantage that damage to the cover body (50) is further suppressed, and separation of the side cover portion (52) and the inner cover portion (512) can be further suppressed.

[0320] In the fourth embodiment, in any one of the first to third embodiments, the protrusion (5122) is provided at the short-side end of the opposing surface (5121).

[0321] According to this embodiment, the deflection of the inner cover portion (512) can be suppressed.

[0322] In the fifth embodiment, as in the fourth embodiment, the inner cover portion (512) has two protrusions (5122). The two protrusions (5122) are provided at both ends in the short direction of the opposing surface (5121).

[0323] According to this embodiment, the deflection of the inner cover portion (512) can be further suppressed.

[0324] In the sixth aspect, as in the fifth aspect, the inner cover portion (512) is stretched between the two side plate portions (53), and the inner cover portion (512) and the two side plate portions (53) are integral. The two protrusions (5122) are integrally connected to the two side plate portions (53), respectively.

[0325] According to this embodiment, the deflection of the inner cover portion (512) can be further suppressed.

[0326] In the seventh embodiment, in the fifth or sixth embodiment, the dimension (L3) of the optical panel (56) in the short direction is greater than the sum of the distance (L41) between the two protrusions (5122) in the short direction and the dimension (L42) of one of the two protrusions (5122).

[0327] According to this embodiment, even if the optical panel (56) is shifted to one side within the housing space (572), at least a portion of the protrusion (5122) overlaps with the optical panel (56). This reduces unintended displacement of the optical panel (56).

[0328] In the eighth embodiment, in any one of the first to seventh embodiments, the distance (L12) between the tip of the protrusion (5122) and the top surface (511) in the direction in which the top surface (511) and the support member (3) face each other is greater than the dimension (L2) of the optical panel (56) in the direction in which the top surface (511) and the support member (3) face each other.

[0329] According to this embodiment, the optical panel (56) can be positioned between the convex portion (5122) and the top surface portion (511), making it easier to achieve the desired optical characteristics.

[0330] In the ninth embodiment, in any one of the first to eighth embodiments, the protrusion (5122) extends in the longitudinal direction. The protrusion (5122) is provided along the entire length of the inner cover portion (512) in the longitudinal direction.

[0331] According to this embodiment, the deflection of the inner cover portion (512) can be suppressed.

[0332] In the tenth embodiment, in any one of the first to ninth embodiments, the inner cover portion (512) is flat. The dimensions of the top surface portion (511) in the short-side direction are the same as the dimensions of the inner cover portion (512) in the short-side direction.

[0333] According to this embodiment, the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface (511) can be improved.

[0334] In the eleventh embodiment, the top surface (511) is transparent in any one of the first to tenth embodiments.

[0335] According to this embodiment, the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface (511) can be improved.

[0336] In the twelfth embodiment, in any one embodiment from the first to the eleventh, the lighting device does not have a member in the internal space (571) between the top surface (511) of the cover (5) and the support member (3) that blocks light traveling in a straight line from the light source toward the top surface (511) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0337] According to this embodiment, the uniformity of the light emission intensity on the top surface (511) can be improved.

[0338] In the 13th embodiment, in any one of the first to 12 embodiments, the side cover portion (52) has a reflective surface (59) facing the internal space (571) between the top surface portion (511) and the support member (3) on the inside of the cover body (50). The reflective surface (59) is illuminated by light that does not travel in a straight line from the light source to the inner cover portion (512), and reflects at least a portion of the light toward the inner cover portion (512).

[0339] According to this embodiment, the luminous efficiency of the top surface (511) can be increased.

[0340] In the 14th embodiment, in any one of the first to 13 embodiments, the side plate portion (53) has a first side plate portion (531) extending from the short edge of the top surface portion (511) to the short edge of the inner cover portion (512), and a second side plate portion (532) extending from the edge of the inner cover portion (512) to the side opposite to the top surface portion (511). In the internal space (571) between the inner cover portion (512) and the support member 3 inside the cover body (50), only the second side plate portion (532) is interposed between the portion facing the second side plate portion (532) and the space outside the lighting device.

[0341] According to this embodiment, heat emitted by the light source, etc., is more easily released to the outside through the second side plate portion (532), which can improve the reliability of the operation of the lighting device.

[0342] In the 15th embodiment, in any one of the first to 14 embodiments, the dimension of the internal space (571) between the inner cover portion (512) and the support member (3) inside the cover body (50) in the direction in which the top surface portion (511) and the support member (3) face each other is larger than the dimension of the space between the inner cover portion (512) and the top surface portion (511) inside the cover body (50) in the direction in which the top surface portion (511) and the support member (3) face each other.

[0343] According to this embodiment, the temperature rise in the internal space (571) due to heat emitted by the light source, etc., can be suppressed, and the reliability of the operation of the lighting device can be improved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0344] A1 Light source unit (lighting device) 1. Light source module (light source) 3. Support member 5 Cover 50 Cover body 511 Top section 512 Inner cover section 5121 Opposing surface 5122 protrusion 52 Side cover section 53 Side plate part 531 1st side plate part 532 Second side plate part 56 Optical Panels 571 Interior space 58 Joint 59 Reflective surface L12 distance L2 dimensions L3 dimensions L41 distance L42 dimensions

Claims

1. A long light source, A support member, which is elongated in the longitudinal direction of the light source, supports the light source. The light source is covered by the support member, and the cover is elongated in the longitudinal direction, and is supported by the support member. The cover comprises a cover body and an optical panel. The cover body has a top surface, an inner cover, and two side cover sections. The aforementioned top surface is flat, has light-transmitting properties, and faces the support member at a distance from it. The inner cover portion has light-transmitting and light-diffusing properties, is positioned between the top surface portion and the support member, and faces both the top surface portion and the support member with a gap between them. Each of the two side cover portions has a side plate portion extending from the short edge of the top surface portion toward the support member, and a connecting portion located toward the support member than the side plate portion and connected to the support member, wherein the short direction is a direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the top surface portion and the support member face each other and the longitudinal direction. The optical panel is positioned between the top surface and the inner cover. The inner cover portion has a protrusion on the surface facing the top surface portion that protrudes toward the top surface portion. Lighting device.

2. The inner cover portion is stretched between the two side plate portions, and the inner cover portion and the two side plate portions are integral. The lighting device according to claim 1.

3. The inner cover portion and the two side plate portions are integrally molded together, thus forming a single unit. The lighting device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned protrusion is provided at the end in the shorter direction of the opposing surface. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The inner cover portion has two of the protrusions, The two aforementioned protrusions are provided at both ends of the opposing surface in the shorter direction, The lighting device according to claim 4.

6. The inner cover portion is stretched between the two side plate portions, and the inner cover portion and the two side plate portions are integrally formed. The two aforementioned protrusions are integrally connected to the two aforementioned side plate portions. The lighting device according to claim 5.

7. The dimension of the optical panel in the shorter direction is, The sum of the distance between the two protrusions in the shorter direction and the dimension of one of the two protrusions is greater than the sum of the two protrusions. The lighting device according to claim 5.

8. The distance between the tip of the protrusion and the top surface in the direction in which the top surface and the support member face each other is greater than the dimensions of the optical panel in the direction in which the top surface and the support member face each other. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The aforementioned protrusion extends in the longitudinal direction, The aforementioned protrusion is provided along the entire length of the inner cover portion in the longitudinal direction. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The inner cover portion is flat, The dimensions of the top surface portion in the short direction and the dimensions of the inner cover portion in the short direction are the same. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. The top surface is transparent. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. The internal space between the top surface and the support member of the cover does not contain a member that blocks light traveling in a straight line from the light source toward the top surface in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

13. The side cover portion has a reflective surface facing the internal space between the top surface portion and the support member on the inside of the cover body, and the reflective surface is illuminated by light that does not travel in a straight line from the light source to the inner cover portion, and reflects at least a portion of the light toward the inner cover portion. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. The side plate portion has a first side plate portion extending from the short edge of the top surface portion to the short edge of the inner cover portion, and a second side plate portion extending from the edge of the inner cover portion to the side opposite to the top surface portion. In the internal space between the inner cover portion and the support member inside the cover body, only the second side plate portion is interposed between the portion facing the second side plate portion and the space outside the lighting device. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. The dimension of the internal space between the inner cover portion and the support member inside the cover body, in the direction in which the top surface portion and the support member face each other, is larger than the dimension of the space between the inner cover portion and the top surface portion inside the cover body, in the direction in which the top surface portion and the support member face each other. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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