LED lighting device and LED lighting fixture

Abstract

To provide an LED lighting device and the like capable of being easily attached to and detached from a luminaire body.SOLUTION: An LED lighting device includes: a long substrate 10; a plurality of LEDs 20 arranged along a longitudinal direction of the substrate 10; a diffusion cover 30 as an example of a long translucent cover disposed in a manner of covering the plurality of LEDs 20; and an end cap 50 disposed at one end portion side in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30. The end cap 50 has a plate-shaped main portion 51, and a connection portion 52 directly or indirectly connected to the diffusion cover 30. The main portion 51 has an outer face 51a and an inner face 51b as faces in a thickness direction of the main portion 51, and the main portion 51 has a hook portion 53 formed to hook an external hooking element by positioning both of the outer face 51a and the inner face 51b on a region near the connection portion 52 at an inner side with respect to the other region of the main portion 51.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an LED lighting device and an LED lighting fixture including the LED lighting device.

Background Art

[0002] LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting fixtures are known. Conventionally, as an LED lighting fixture installed on a ceiling, a lighting fixture including a long LED lighting device called a light bar and a long fixture body having a recess to which the LED lighting device is detachably attached is known (Patent Document 1).

[0003] This type of LED lighting device includes a long substrate, a plurality of LEDs mounted on the substrate, a long diffusion cover covering the plurality of LEDs, a support member that supports the substrate and to which the diffusion cover is attached, and a pair of end caps attached to both ends in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover. The pair of end caps are substantially plate-like members and are connected to the diffusion cover so as to cover both ends of the diffusion cover.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the configuration of a conventional LED lighting device, when installing an LED lighting fixture on a ceiling or the like, there is a problem that the LED lighting device cannot be easily attached to the fixture body. Further, when the LED lighting fixture is detachably attached to the fixture body, it is not easy to attach or detach the LED lighting device to / from the fixture body. That is, it is difficult to attach the LED lighting device to the lighting fixture or remove the LED lighting device from the fixture body.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of these problems, and aims to provide an LED lighting device and an LED lighting fixture that can be easily attached to and detached from the fixture body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, one embodiment of the LED lighting device according to the present invention comprises a long substrate, a plurality of LEDs arranged on one surface of the substrate along the longitudinal direction of the substrate, a long translucent cover arranged opposite to the one surface of the substrate so as to cover the plurality of LEDs, and an end cap provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the translucent cover, wherein the end cap has a plate-shaped main part and a connecting part that is directly or indirectly connected to the translucent cover, the main part has an outer surface and an inner surface as surfaces in the thickness direction of the main part, and the main part has a hooking part formed so that an external hooking element can hook onto it, with the outer surface and the inner surface in the area near the connecting part both being located inward from other parts of the main part.

[0008] Furthermore, one embodiment of the LED lighting fixture according to the present invention comprises the above-mentioned LED lighting device and a fixture body that holds the LED lighting device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] This makes it possible to obtain an LED lighting device and an LED lighting fixture that can be easily attached to and detached from the fixture body. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the LED lighting fixture according to the embodiment, as seen from the longitudinal direction. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the LED lighting device according to the embodiment, as seen from the diffuser cover side. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the LED lighting device according to the embodiment, as seen from the back. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an LED lighting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a plan view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the longitudinal end of an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the configuration of an end cap used in an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment installed on the ceiling in a lit state. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the process of removing the LED lighting device from the fixture body in an LED lighting fixture according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows the configuration of the end cap according to Modification 1. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the configuration of the end cap according to modified example 2. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows the configuration of an LED lighting fixture according to Modification 2. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows another configuration of the end cap according to Modification 2. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows the configuration of the end cap according to Modification 3. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows the configuration of an LED lighting fixture according to Modification 3. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap according to Modification 4. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture according to Modification 4. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap according to Modification 5. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture according to Modification 5.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments described below shows a specific example of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, and the processes and the order of the processes shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims indicating the highest concept of the present invention are described as arbitrary components.

[0012] In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. Also, in each figure, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same configurations, and duplicate explanations are omitted or simplified. Further, in each figure, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis represent the three axes of a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In the present embodiment, the Z-axis direction is the vertical direction, and the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis (the direction parallel to the XY plane) is the horizontal direction. The X-axis and Y-axis are perpendicular to each other and are both perpendicular to the Z-axis. Note that in this specification, the terms "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily refer to the upper direction (vertically upward) and the lower direction (vertically downward) in an absolute spatial recognition.

[0013] (Embodiment) First, the configuration of the LED lighting fixture 1 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the LED lighting fixture 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the LED lighting fixture 1. Figure 3 is a side view of the LED lighting fixture 1 as seen from the longitudinal direction. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the LED lighting fixture 1. Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the LED lighting fixture 1 when cut by a plane parallel to the short direction.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the LED lighting fixture 1 according to this embodiment comprises a fixture body 2 and an LED lighting device 3 attached to the fixture body 2.

[0015] The fixture body 2 holds the LED lighting device 3. The fixture body 2 is installed in a predetermined location in the building. In this embodiment, the LED lighting fixture 1 is a ceiling-mounted lighting fixture. Therefore, the fixture body 2 is attached to the ceiling of the room using bolts or the like.

[0016] In this embodiment, the fixture body 2 is made of sheet metal and is formed into a long, flat box shape in the Y-axis direction by bending or other processes applied to the metal plate. As shown in Figure 2, the fixture body 2 is provided with a recess 2a having a rectangular opening. The recess 2a is provided in a long shape along the longitudinal direction of the fixture body 2. The recess 2a is a storage section for housing the LED lighting device 3 and is provided over substantially the entire length of the fixture body 2. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, on both sides of the recess 2a in the width direction of the fixture body 2, there are inclined surfaces 2b that extend from the opening edge of the recess 2a and slope upward (towards the ceiling) as they extend outwards.

[0017] The LED lighting device 3 is a light source unit that uses LEDs as a light source. The LED lighting device 3 is detachably attached to the recess 2a of the fixture body 2. For example, the LED lighting device 3 can be attached to the recess 2a of the fixture body 2, or the LED lighting device 3 attached to the recess 2a of the fixture body 2 can be removed from the recess 2a. The LED lighting device 3 and the fixture body 2 can be fixed together by engaging mounting brackets such as leaf springs provided on the LED lighting device 3 with the fixture body 2.

[0018] As shown in Figure 4, the LED lighting device 3 emits light using power supplied from a power supply unit 4 housed in the fixture body 2. The power supply unit 4 supplies power to the LED lighting device 3 and is located, for example, on the back side of the LED lighting device 3. Specifically, the power supply unit 4 is located in a recess 2a of the fixture body 2. In this embodiment, the power supply unit 4 is attached to the LED lighting device 3 and is integrated with the LED lighting device 3. However, the power supply unit 4 may not be integrated with the LED lighting device 3 and may be located separately in the fixture body 2.

[0019] The power supply unit 4 consists of a power supply circuit that generates power to illuminate the LED lighting device 3. For example, the power supply unit 4 has a printed circuit board on which multiple electronic components are mounted, and a circuit case that houses the printed circuit board. The power supply unit 4 converts AC power from an external power source such as a commercial power supply into DC power at a predetermined level by rectifying, smoothing, and stepping down the voltage, and supplies the DC power to the LED lighting device 3.

[0020] Next, the detailed structure of the LED lighting device 3 will be described using Figures 5 to 7, with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the LED lighting device 3 according to the embodiment, as seen from the diffuser cover 30 side, and Figure 6 is a perspective view of the same LED lighting device 3 as seen from the back side. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the same LED lighting device 3.

[0021] As shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6, the LED lighting device 3 is a long, linear light source called a light bar. The LED lighting device 3 emits light of a predetermined color, such as white light.

[0022] As shown in Figures 4 and 7, the LED lighting device 3 comprises a substrate 10, a plurality of LEDs 20 arranged on the substrate 10, a long diffuser cover 30 covering the plurality of LEDs 20, a support member 40 for supporting the substrate 10, and an end cap 50.

[0023] The substrate 10 is a mounting substrate for mounting the LED 20. In this embodiment, the substrate 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape that is elongated in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the support member 40. The thickness of the substrate 10 is, for example, 1.0 mm. The substrate 10 may be approximately the same length as the total length of the support member 40 in the longitudinal direction, or multiple substrates may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the support member 40.

[0024] The substrate 10 has a first surface 10a and a second surface 10b that faces away from the first surface 10a. The first surface 10a of the substrate 10 is the front surface on which the LED 20 is mounted. On the other hand, the second surface 10b of the substrate 10 is the back surface that faces the support member 40. In this embodiment, the second surface 10b of the substrate 10 and the support member 40 are in contact.

[0025] The substrate 10 is, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB) on which metal wiring is formed in a predetermined pattern. A resist made of an insulating resin material may be formed on the surface of the substrate 10 to protect the wiring and ensure dielectric strength. The substrate 10 may be a single-sided PCB with wiring formed only on the first surface 10a on which the LED 20 is mounted, or a double-sided PCB with wiring formed on both the first surface 10a and the second surface 10b.

[0026] The substrates used to make up the substrate 10 include resin substrates made of insulating resin materials, ceramic substrates made of sintered bodies of ceramic materials such as alumina, and metal base substrates obtained by applying an insulating coating to the surface of a metal substrate made of a metal material such as aluminum or copper.

[0027] If the substrate 10 is made of a resin substrate, the resin substrate can be, for example, a glass epoxy substrate (CEM-3, FR-4, etc.) made of glass fibers and epoxy resin, a paper phenol substrate (FR-1, FR-2) made of kraft paper or the like and phenol resin, a paper epoxy substrate (FR-3) made of paper and epoxy resin, or a polyimide substrate made of polyimide or the like. Furthermore, the substrate 10 may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate in the form of a film.

[0028] As shown in Figure 7, a plurality of LEDs 20 are mounted on the first surface 10a of the substrate 10. In this embodiment, the plurality of LEDs 20 are mounted in a straight line along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the substrate 10 at predetermined intervals. Specifically, the plurality of LEDs 20 are mounted along approximately the entire length in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40. Therefore, the first and last LEDs 20 of the plurality of LEDs 20 are located near the end cap 50. Note that the plurality of LEDs 20 may be mounted in multiple rows along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 10, rather than in a single row.

[0029] LED20 is an example of a light-emitting element. In this embodiment, each of the multiple LEDs 20 is an individually packaged SMD structure LED element (LED light source). In this case, each LED 20 comprises a white container (package) made of resin or ceramic, an LED chip (bare chip) placed inside the container, and a sealing member that seals the LED chip. In this embodiment, LED 20 is a white LED element that emits white light. In this case, for example, a blue LED chip that emits blue light when energized is used as the LED chip, and a silicone resin containing a yellow phosphor such as YAG (phosphor-containing resin) is used as the sealing member that fills the container.

[0030] Multiple LEDs 20 are covered by a diffusion cover 30. The diffusion cover 30 is an example of a light-transmitting cover, and transmits light emitted from the LEDs 20. In this embodiment, the diffusion cover 30 is not only light-transmitting but also diffusive. Therefore, the light from the LEDs 20 that enters the diffusion cover 30 is diffused (scattered) by the diffusion cover 30 and then transmitted through the diffusion cover 30.

[0031] As shown in Figures 4 and 7, the diffusion cover 30 is positioned opposite the first surface 10a of the substrate 10 so as to cover the multiple LEDs 20. The diffusion cover 30 covers the entire substrate 10. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the diffusion cover 30 covers the entire support member 40 on which the substrate 10 is placed. Therefore, the diffusion cover 30 is formed in an elongated shape in the Y-axis direction, similar to the substrate 10.

[0032] The diffusion cover 30 is attached to the support member 40. The diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40 form a cylindrical body, and the substrate 10 and the multiple LEDs 20 mounted on the substrate 10 are housed inside this cylindrical body.

[0033] The diffusion cover 30 has a trough-shaped main body portion 31 that is elongated in the Y-axis direction, and a pair of extension portions 32 provided at each end of the main body portion 31 in the short direction (X-axis direction). The main body portion 31 is, for example, a flattened semi-cylindrical shape. Therefore, the main body portion 31 has an elongated rectangular open end face that extends in the Y-axis direction. Also, the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 31 when cut along the X-axis direction is a curved shape that is curved in an arc. A recess is formed on the inner surface of each of the pair of extension portions 32, and the diffusion cover 30 is fixed to the support member 40 by attaching a pair of mounting portions 42 of the support member 40 to these recesses.

[0034] The diffusion cover 30 is made of a translucent resin material such as acrylic or polycarbonate, or a translucent material such as glass. In this embodiment, the diffusion cover 30 is made of a translucent resin material. In this case, the diffusion cover 30 can be a milky white cover member in which a light-diffusing material is dispersed inside. Such a diffusion cover 30 can be manufactured by resin molding a translucent resin material mixed with a light-diffusing material into a predetermined shape. As the light-diffusing material, light-reflective fine particles such as silica particles can be used.

[0035] Furthermore, the diffusion cover 30 may be constructed not by dispersing the light-diffusing material inside, but by forming a milky white light-diffusing film containing the light-diffusing material on the surface (inner or outer surface) of the transparent cover. Alternatively, the diffusion cover 30 may be configured to have light-diffusing properties by applying a diffusion process rather than using a light-diffusing material. For example, the diffusion cover 30 may be configured to have light-diffusing properties by forming minute irregularities on the surface of the transparent cover by applying a surface treatment such as texturing, or by printing a dot pattern on the surface of the transparent cover. Even when the diffusion cover 30 is subjected to a diffusion process, it may contain an additional light-diffusing material to further enhance its light-diffusing properties.

[0036] The support member 40 is a long base member that supports the substrate 10. The substrate 10 is placed on the support member 40. By placing the substrate 10 on the support member 40 and fixing the substrate 10 to the support member 40, the substrate 10 is supported by the support member 40. In this embodiment, the support member 40 supports not only the substrate 10 but also the diffusion cover 30. The diffusion cover 30 is fixed to the support member 40.

[0037] As an example, the support member 40 is a sheet metal frame. The support member 40 is formed into a predetermined shape by roll forming or press forming on a sheet metal (metal plate) made of, for example, SPCC (Steel Plate Cold Commercial). In this embodiment, the support member 40 is formed such that the cross-sectional shape when cut along the X-axis is approximately M-shaped. Also, the support member 40 is formed in an elongated shape in the Y-axis direction, similar to the substrate 10 and the main body 2 of the device. The thickness of the metal plate constituting the support member 40 is, for example, 0.2 mm to 2 mm, and in this embodiment it is 0.5 mm.

[0038] As shown in Figures 4 and 7, the support member 40 has a main body portion 41 on which the substrate 10 is placed, and a pair of mounting portions 42 for attaching the support member 40 to the diffusion cover 30. The main body portion 41 and the pair of mounting portions 42 extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0039] The main body 41 has a pair of stepped portions 41a formed along its longitudinal direction in the width direction (X-axis direction). The pair of stepped portions 41a also form a recess 41b in the main body 41. The pair of stepped portions 41a and the recess 41b are formed along the entire longitudinal length of the main body 41. The substrate 10 is placed in the recess 41b. The main body 41 also has claw portions formed by cutting and bending a part of a sheet metal support member 40, and the substrate 10 placed in the recess 41b of the main body 41 is fixed to the main body 41 by engaging with these claw portions. The main body 41 is also provided with through holes through which wires for electrically connecting the wiring of the substrate 10 to the power supply unit 4 are inserted.

[0040] The pair of mounting portions 42 constitute the side surface of the support member 40. Each of the pair of mounting portions 42 extends in the Z-axis direction from both ends in the short direction (X-axis direction) of the main body portion 41. The extension portion 32 of the diffusion cover 30 is attached to each of the pair of mounting portions 42. This fixes the diffusion cover 30 to the support member 40. For example, the diffusion cover 30 can be fitted and fixed to the support member 40 by snapping the extension portion 32 of the diffusion cover 30 into the mounting portion 42 of the support member 40.

[0041] A long cylindrical body is formed by fixing the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40 together. End caps 50 are attached to both ends of the cylindrical body formed by the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40 in the longitudinal direction.

[0042] Here, the detailed configuration of the end cap 50 will be explained using Figures 8 to 12, with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Figure 8 is a plan view of the LED lighting fixture 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is a side view of the LED lighting fixture 1. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the LED lighting fixture 1. Figure 10 shows a cross-section when the LED lighting fixture 1 is cut by a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction. Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the end of the LED lighting fixture 1 in the longitudinal direction. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50 used in the LED lighting fixture 1. In Figure 12, (a) is a perspective view of the end cap 50 as seen from the outer surface 51a side, (b) is a perspective view of the end cap 50 as seen from the inner surface 51b side, (c) is a side view of the end cap 50 as seen from the end face on the support member 40 side, and (d) is a cross-sectional perspective view when the end cap 50 is cut in half.

[0043] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, end caps 50 are provided at each of the longitudinal ends of the LED lighting device 3. Specifically, the end caps 50 are provided at each of the longitudinal ends of the diffusion cover 30. In other words, the end caps 50 are cover ends provided at the ends of the diffusion cover 30.

[0044] As shown in Figures 8 to 11, the end cap 50 provided on one end of the diffusion cover 30 in the longitudinal direction is the first end cap 50a. Specifically, the first end cap 50a is directly or indirectly connected to one end of the diffusion cover 30 in the longitudinal direction.

[0045] Furthermore, the end cap 50 provided on the other end of the diffusion cover 30 in the longitudinal direction is the second end cap 50b. Specifically, the second end cap 50b is directly or indirectly connected to the other end of the diffusion cover 30 in the longitudinal direction.

[0046] In this embodiment, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b are the same part. That is, the shape of the second end cap 50b is the same as the shape of the first end cap 50a. This allows for cost reduction.

[0047] Furthermore, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b are positioned in opposite directions in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the LED lighting device 3. Specifically, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b, which are identical parts, are positioned symmetrically along the longitudinal direction of the LED lighting device 3.

[0048] The end cap 50 is a component that prevents dust, insects, and other debris from entering the inside of the cylindrical body, which is composed of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40. The end cap 50 is provided to seal the open end of the cylindrical body, which is composed of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40. In other words, the end cap 50 is attached to the cylindrical body so as to cover the open end of the cylindrical body, which is composed of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40, thereby closing the open end of the cylindrical body. However, the end cap 50 does not completely seal the open end of the cylindrical body, which is composed of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40, and there may be a small gap between the end cap 50 and the support member 40.

[0049] As shown in Figures 10 to 12, the end cap 50 has a plate-shaped main part 51 and a connecting part 52 that is connected directly or indirectly to the diffusion cover 30.

[0050] The main part 51 constitutes the body of the end cap 50 and primarily functions to cover the open end of the cylindrical body, which is composed of the diffusion cover 30 and the support member 40.

[0051] In this embodiment, all or part of the plate-shaped main portion 51 is translucent. This translucency of the main portion 51 allows light from the LED 20 to pass through. In other words, the light emitted by the LED 20 passes through the main portion 51 and exits the end cap 50.

[0052] Specifically, the end cap 50 is translucent throughout. Therefore, both the main part 51 and the connecting part 52 are translucent. Because the entire main part 51 is translucent in this way, the light emitted by the LED 20 is emitted from the entire main part 51 to the outside of the main part 51.

[0053] The light-transmitting end cap 50 may be transparent or diffusive. By using a light-transmitting and diffusive end cap 50, the light from the LED 20 incident on the end cap 50 is diffused (scattered) by the end cap 50 and then transmitted through the end cap 50.

[0054] The end cap 50 is made of a translucent resin material such as acrylic or polycarbonate, or a translucent material such as glass. In this embodiment, the end cap 50 is made of a translucent resin material. In this case, the end cap 50 can be a diffusion member in which a light diffusing material is dispersed inside. Such an end cap 50 can be manufactured by resin molding a translucent resin material mixed with a light diffusing material into a predetermined shape. As the light diffusing material, light-reflective fine particles such as silica particles can be used.

[0055] Furthermore, the light-transmitting and diffusing end cap 50 may be constructed not by dispersing a light-diffusing material inside, but by forming a milky white light-diffusing film containing a light-diffusing material on the surface (inner or outer surface) of the transparent end cap. Alternatively, the end cap 50 may be configured to have light-diffusing properties by applying a diffusion process instead of using a light-diffusing material. For example, the end cap 50 may be configured to have light-diffusing properties by forming minute irregularities on the surface of the transparent end cap by applying a surface treatment such as texturing, or by printing a dot pattern on the surface of the transparent end cap. Even when the end cap 50 is subjected to a diffusion process, it may contain an additional light-diffusing material to further enhance its light-diffusing properties.

[0056] The end cap 50 may be made of the same material as the diffusion cover 30, or it may be made of a different material than the diffusion cover 30.

[0057] Furthermore, the main part 51 does not have to be light-transmitting. In this case, the entire end cap 50 does not have to be light-transmitting. For example, examples of non-light-transmitting end caps 50 include those that have light-shielding (light-absorbing) or light-reflecting properties. In this case, the end cap 50 is made of, for example, a white, black, or colored resin material. Also, the end cap 50 may have a light-transmitting portion and a non-light-transmitting portion.

[0058] The front view shape of the main part 51 is, for example, a flattened, semi-cylindrical shape overall. Therefore, as shown in Figure 11, the outer shape of one side of the main part 51 in the Z-axis direction is a curved shape that curves in an arc to conform to the shape of the diffusion cover 30.

[0059] The thickness of the plate-shaped main portion 51 is constant. For example, the thickness of the main portion 51 is 1 mm to 10 mm, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, although the thickness of the main portion 51 is assumed to be constant throughout its entire area, it is not limited to this.

[0060] As shown in Figure 10, the main portion 51 has an outer surface 51a and an inner surface 51b as surfaces in the thickness direction of the main portion 51. In the end cap 50, the inner surface 51b is the end face on the LED 20 side, and the outer surface 51a is the end face on the opposite side from the LED 20 side. The outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are flat surfaces.

[0061] As described above, in this embodiment, the entire main part 51 is translucent, so the light emitted from the LED 20 and incident on the main part 51 passes through the entire main part 51. Therefore, the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 becomes the light incident surface to which the light from the LED 20 is incident, and the outer surface 51a of the main part 51 becomes the light emission surface to which the light from the LED 20 is emitted to the outside. In other words, by the light from the LED 20 passing through the main part 51, the outer surface 51a of the main part 51 becomes a pseudo-light-emitting surface.

[0062] The end cap 50 is positioned such that the plate-shaped main portion 51 is erected perpendicularly to the support member 40. Therefore, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 are, as a whole, vertical planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30.

[0063] The connecting portion 52 is formed to stand upright on the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51. The connecting portion 52 is formed on the curved portion of the outer circumference of the main portion 51. In other words, the connecting portion 52 is formed on the portion corresponding to the main body portion 31 of the diffusion cover 30.

[0064] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 52 is directly connected to the diffusion cover 30. Specifically, the connecting portion 52 is fitted with the main body portion 31 of the diffusion cover 30 and is in contact with the main body portion 31 of the diffusion cover 30. However, the connecting portion 52 and the diffusion cover 30 may be connected indirectly. For example, the connecting portion 52 and the diffusion cover 30 may be indirectly connected by arranging a ring-shaped packing to surround the connecting portion 52. Alternatively, if a packing is used, it may be inserted between the outer peripheral end of the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 and the end face of the main body portion 31 of the diffusion cover 30.

[0065] The connecting portion of the end cap 50 may be part of the plate-shaped main portion 51. In other words, the connecting portion may be the part of the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 that connects to the diffusion cover 30. In this case, the end cap 50 may or may not have the upright connecting portion 52 as in this embodiment.

[0066] The main part 51 has a hook portion 53 formed to allow external hooking elements such as a user's finger or a jig to catch on it. The hook portion 53 is formed so that external hooking elements can catch on it by having both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the hook portion 53 located near the connection portion 52 of the main part 51 positioned inward compared to other parts of the main part 51. That is, in the main part 51, the outer surface 51a of the hook portion 53 is located inward compared to the outer surface 51a of other parts that are different from the hook portion 53, and the inner surface 51b of the hook portion 53 is located inward compared to the outer surface 51a of other parts. Note that the outer surface 51a of the hook portion 53 may be in the same position as the end surface of the end of the diffusion cover 30.

[0067] In this embodiment, the main part 51 has a portion that serves as a hook portion 53, where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are located inward (towards the LED 20) from one end of the diffusion cover 30. In other words, the hook portion 53 formed on the main part 51 is a portion where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are set back toward the LED 20 from one end of the diffusion cover 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the hook portion 53 formed on the main part 51 has both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b located inward from the end face of the end cap 50.

[0068] On the inner surface 51b of the main part 51, the hook portion 53 is located on the LED 20 side, which is inward from other parts (i.e., the flat plate portion) that are different from the hook portion 53. In this embodiment, the hook portion 53 has a recessed outer surface 51a. Specifically, the hook portion 53 is formed such that a part of the main part 51 protrudes toward the LED 20 side. Therefore, the hook portion 53 has a recessed outer surface 51a and a protruding inner surface 51b.

[0069] Since the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b are arranged in opposite directions, the hook portion 53 of both the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b is recessed toward the inside in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30.

[0070] In this embodiment, the hook portion 53 is a groove that extends linearly along the X-axis direction. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of the bottom surface of the hook portion 53 is an arc-shaped curved surface, but it may also be a flat surface. Also, the plan view shape of both ends of the hook portion 53 in the longitudinal direction is an arc shape, but it may also be a straight line. Furthermore, the hook portion 53 is formed in the center of the main portion 51 in the vertical direction, but is not limited to this.

[0071] The size of the opening of the hook portion 53 is not particularly limited, but it should be large enough for at least a person's fingertip to fit inside. For example, the groove width (opening width in the Z-axis direction) of the hook portion 53 is about 1 cm to 3 cm, but is not limited to this. The groove length (opening length in the X-axis direction) of the hook portion 53 should be long enough for at least one finger to fit inside (e.g., 1 cm or more), preferably long enough for multiple fingers to fit inside (e.g., 2 cm or more). The depth of the hook portion 53 is not particularly limited, but it should be deep enough for the tip of a fingertip to catch on, preferably up to the first joint of the finger. The size of the opening of the hook portion 53 may be large enough not to allow a person's fingertip to fit inside.

[0072] The end cap 50, configured in this way, is provided so as not to create a gap between it and the diffusion cover 30. Specifically, the end cap 50 is fitted onto the open end of the diffusion cover 30 such that the connecting portion 52 contacts the inner surface of the diffusion cover 30. This creates a continuous surface between the outer peripheral edge of the main portion 51 of the end cap 50 and the outer peripheral surface of the diffusion cover 30. The end cap 50 and the diffusion cover 30 may be fixed together with an adhesive.

[0073] Next, the effects of the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the LED lighting fixture 1 according to this embodiment, installed on the ceiling 100, in a lit state. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the process of removing the LED lighting device 3 from the fixture body 2 in the LED lighting fixture 1 according to this embodiment.

[0074] As shown in Figure 13, in the LED lighting fixture 1 of this embodiment, the main part 51 of the end cap 50 is light-transmitting, so the light emitted from the LED 20 passes through the end cap 50. Specifically, the light emitted from the LED 20 and incident on the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 of the end cap 50 passes through the main part 51 and exits to the outside of the end cap 50 from the outer surface 51a of the main part 51.

[0075] In this embodiment, the LED lighting device 3 is provided with a hook portion 53 on the main portion 51 of the end cap 50. As a result, the light emitted from the LED 20 and incident on the hook portion 53 is controlled in its light distribution according to the shape of the hook portion 53 and emitted to the outside of the end cap 50. Therefore, the area around the longitudinal end of the LED lighting device 3 (diffusion cover 30) can be illuminated to the desired level. For example, by directing the light from the LED 20 not only onto the diffusion cover 30 but also onto the end cap 50 with the hook portion 53, the amount of diffused light on the ceiling surface can be increased, thereby improving the perceived brightness.

[0076] Furthermore, by allowing the light emitted from the LED 20 to pass through the end cap 50, when multiple LED lighting fixtures 1 or LED lighting devices 3 are arranged adjacently in the longitudinal direction, the non-emitting area at the connection point between two adjacent LED lighting devices 3 can be eliminated. This reduces the difference in brightness (uneven illumination) and color unevenness among the multiple LED lighting devices 3 when multiple LED lighting fixtures 1 or LED lighting devices 3 are arranged adjacently in the longitudinal direction.

[0077] Furthermore, in the LED lighting fixture 1 of this embodiment, the LED lighting device 3 is detachably attached to the fixture body 2. Therefore, as shown in Figure 14(a), when the LED lighting device 3 is held in the fixture body 2, it can be removed by separating the LED lighting device 3 from the fixture body 2 in the Z-axis direction, as shown in Figure 14(b). In this case, the user removes the LED lighting device 3 from the fixture body 2 by holding both ends of the LED lighting device 3 in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the end caps 50) with their hands and gripping the LED lighting device 3 with both hands.

[0078] In this embodiment, the LED lighting device 3 is provided with a hook portion 53 on the main portion 51 of the end cap 50. This allows a finger to be hooked onto the hook portion 53, improving the holding force with which the end cap 50 can be held. Therefore, the LED lighting device 3 can be easily removed from the fixture body 2.

[0079] In this embodiment, the hook portion 53 is located on the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51, closer to the LED 20 than other parts. Specifically, the hook portion 53 has a shape in which the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is recessed. This allows a part of a finger to be inserted into the hook portion 53, making it even easier to remove the LED lighting device 3.

[0080] If a finger cannot reach the hook portion 53, the LED lighting device 3 may be removed by using a jig as an external hooking element and hooking the jig onto the hook portion 53.

[0081] Furthermore, by using the end cap 50 provided with the hook portion 53, not only can the LED lighting device 3 be easily removed from the fixture body 2, but the LED lighting device 3 can also be easily attached to the fixture body 2.

[0082] Thus, in the LED lighting fixture 1 of this embodiment, the main part 51 of the end cap 50 is light-transmitting and a hooking part 53 is provided on the main part 51. This allows not only to control the light distribution of the light emitted from the end cap 50 to the outside, but also to easily attach and detach the LED lighting device 3.

[0083] As described above, the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to this embodiment include a long substrate 10, a plurality of LEDs 20 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 10, a long diffusion cover 30 covering the plurality of LEDs 20, and an end cap 50 provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30. The end cap 50 has a plate-shaped main part 51 and a connecting part 52. The main part 51 has a hooking part 53 formed such that an external hooking element can hook onto it, with both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the part near the connecting part 52 being located inward from other parts of the main part 51. In this embodiment, the hooking part 53 of the main part 51 is a part where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are located inward from one end of the diffusion cover 30 or the end face of the end cap 50.

[0084] This configuration makes it possible to obtain an LED lighting device 3 that can be easily attached to and detached from the fixture body 2.

[0085] In particular, in this embodiment, all or part of the main portion 51 of the end cap 50 is translucent.

[0086] With this configuration, the light from the LED 20 passes through the main part 51 of the end cap 50 and is emitted to the outside. This makes it easy to attach and detach the LED lighting device 3 to the fixture body 2, and also allows the area around the longitudinal end of the LED lighting device 3 to have a desired lighting atmosphere.

[0087] (Variation 1) Next, Modification 1 will be explained using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50A according to Modification 1.

[0088] In the end cap 50 of the above embodiment, the hook portion 53 of the main portion 51 was formed in a straight line. However, in the end cap 50A of this modified example, as shown in Figure 15, the hook portion 53 of the main portion 51 is formed in an arc shape, and is formed so that it approaches the open end face of the diffusion cover 30 as it moves away from the connection portion 52 side.

[0089] In this modified example, the end cap 50A also has a hook portion 53 formed so that an external hooking element can be hooked, with both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b near the connection portion 52 being located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30.

[0090] Therefore, it achieves the same effects as the above embodiment. Specifically, the LED lighting device can be easily attached and detached. Also, since the main part 51 is light-transmitting in this modified example as well, the light distribution of the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50A can be controlled.

[0091] (Modification 2) Next, Modification 2 will be explained using Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50B according to Modification 2. Figure 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture 1B according to Modification 2.

[0092] The modified LED lighting fixture 1B and LED lighting device 3B are configured such that the end cap 50 is changed to the end cap 50B shown in Figure 16, in the same configuration as the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to the above embodiment.

[0093] The end cap 50B shown in Figure 16, like the end cap 50 in the above embodiment, has a plate-shaped main part 51 that is entirely or partially translucent, and a connecting part 52 that is directly or indirectly connected to the diffusion cover 30. In this modified example as well, the entire end cap 50B is translucent.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, in this modified example, the main portion 51 has a portion where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are located inward (towards the LED 20) from one end of the diffusion cover 30. In other words, the main portion 51 has a portion where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b are set back toward the LED 20 from one end of the diffusion cover 30. In this case, it is preferable that the entire outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is located inward from the end of the diffusion cover 30. Specifically, it is preferable that the entire main portion 51 is located inward from the longitudinal end face of the diffusion cover 30, and that the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 does not protrude from the end face of the diffusion cover 30.

[0095] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is curved in at least a portion of the envelope in a cross-section parallel to the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the diffusion cover 30. Similarly, the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 is curved in at least a portion of the envelope in a cross-section parallel to the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30. In this modified example, each of the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 is curved in a concave shape as a whole, so as to be recessed inward. As an example, the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is parabolic in shape.

[0096] Furthermore, in this modified example, the main portion 51 is generally inclined such that the upper portion is recessed inward from the lower portion in the height direction (Z-axis direction), and is generally curved such that the central portion is recessed inward from the peripheral portion in the width direction (X-axis direction).

[0097] As shown in Figure 16(d), the main portion 51 is curved along the height direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, the edge of the upper end of the main portion 51 along the Z-axis direction is curved along the width direction (X-axis direction). In other words, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 are curved in both the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction, and the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b are curved surfaces. The radius of curvature of the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is, for example, 100 mm to 500 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0098] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, the upper portion of the main part 51 is recessed inward more than the lower portion. In this modified example, the edge of the upper central portion of the main part 51 is recessed the most from the longitudinal end face of the diffusion cover 30. The amount of recession (recess) from the longitudinal end face of the diffusion cover 30 at the edge of the upper central portion of the main part 51 is, for example, 1 mm to 10 mm. In this embodiment, this recession is 3 mm.

[0099] Thus, in this modified example, the end cap 50B has an inclined curved surface on the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51, and this curved surface functions as a hooking portion of the end cap 50 in the above embodiment. In other words, the end cap 50B in this modified example has a main portion 51 having a hooking portion formed so that an external hooking element can catch on it, with both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b in the area near the connection portion 52 being located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30.

[0100] Therefore, the LED lighting fixture 1B and LED lighting device 3B shown in Figure 17 have the same effects as those of the embodiment described above.

[0101] Specifically, in the LED lighting device 3B of this modified example, both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 of the end cap 50B are located inward from one end of the diffusion cover 30. This makes it easier to grip the main part 51 of the end cap 50B with your fingers. In other words, the main part 51 itself functions as a hook. This improves the gripping force with which the end cap 50B is held by the fingers. Therefore, the LED lighting device 3B can be easily removed from the fixture body 2.

[0102] Furthermore, in this modified example, the outer surface 51a of the main part 51 is a curved surface that curves inward, creating a concave shape overall. As a result, when the user presses the end cap 50B with their finger along the outer surface 51a (curved surface) of the main part 51, a portion of their finger fits inside the longitudinal end face of the diffusion cover 30. Therefore, the holding force with which the end cap 50B is held by the finger can be effectively improved, making it even easier to remove the LED lighting device 3B.

[0103] Furthermore, it is preferable that the entire outer surface 51a of the main part 51 is located inward from the end of the diffusion cover 30. This increases the finger grip portion on the end cap 50B, making it easier to remove the LED lighting device 3B.

[0104] Furthermore, if the recession of the diffusion cover 30 from the longitudinal end face at the upper central edge of the main part 51 is at least 1 mm, the holding force for holding the end cap 50B with a finger can be improved compared to conventional end caps which are vertical flat plates without a hooking portion.

[0105] Furthermore, by using an end cap 50B with this configuration, not only can the LED lighting device 3B be easily removed from the fixture body 2, but the LED lighting device 3B can also be easily attached to the fixture body 2.

[0106] Furthermore, in the LED lighting device 3B in this modified example, the main part 51 of the end cap 50B is light-transmitting, so the light emitted from the LED 20 passes through the end cap 50B and is emitted to the outside of the end cap 50B.

[0107] In this modified example, the LED lighting device 3B has portions where both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 of the end cap 50B are located inward from one end of the diffusion cover 30. This controls the light distribution of the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50. Therefore, the area around the longitudinal end of the LED lighting device 3B (diffusion cover 30) can be illuminated to a desired level. For example, by directing the light from the LED 20 not only onto the diffusion cover 30 but also onto the end cap 50, the amount of diffused light on the ceiling surface can be increased, thereby improving the perceived brightness.

[0108] In this modified example, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main part 51 are curved in part in the envelope of the cross-section parallel to the longitudinal direction of the diffusion cover 30. Specifically, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main part 51 are curved surfaces that are concave as a whole, so as to be recessed inward. As a result, the light distribution of light transmitted through the end cap 50B is controlled according to the curved shape of the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b. For example, the light distribution of light transmitted through the end cap 50B can be controlled by changing the radius of curvature of the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main part 51. For example, the perceived brightness can be further improved by controlling the light distribution to increase the amount of diffused light on the ceiling surface.

[0109] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the design of the LED lighting device 3 can be improved by making the outer surface 51a of the main part 51 of the end cap 50 a concave curved surface.

[0110] In the end cap 50B shown in Figure 16, the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is parabolic in shape, and the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is curved in both the height direction (Z-axis direction) and the width direction (X-axis direction), but this is not limited to this.

[0111] For example, as shown in Figure 18, the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 may have a conical cross-section, and the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 may be inclined in the height direction (Z-axis direction) and curved in the width direction (X-axis direction).

[0112] In the end cap 50C shown in Figure 18, both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 have portions located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30, and the outer surface 51a is an inclined curved surface. As a result, the main part 51 of the end cap 50C also has a structure in which it has a hook portion. Therefore, it produces the same effect as the LED lighting device 3B shown in Figures 16 and 17.

[0113] (Variation 3) Next, Modification 3 will be explained using Figures 19 and 20. Figure 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50D according to Modification 3. Figure 20 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture 1D according to Modification 3.

[0114] The modified LED lighting fixture 1D and LED lighting device 3D are configured such that the end cap 50 is changed to the end cap 50D shown in Figure 19, in the same configuration as the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to the above embodiment.

[0115] The end cap 50D shown in Figure 19, like the end cap 50B in the modified example 2 described above, has a main portion 51 that is curved overall, and the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is curved inward, so that the whole thing is concave.

[0116] Furthermore, in the end cap 50B of the modified example 2 described above, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 were flat surfaces, but in the end cap 50D of this modified example, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 are stepped surfaces formed in a stepped manner. Thus, in the end cap 50D of this modified example, the main portion 51 is formed to have multiple steps.

[0117] Furthermore, in the end cap 50D shown in Figure 19, as shown in Figure 20, both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 have portions that are located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30. As a result, the main portion 51 of the end cap 50D also has a structure in which it has a hooking portion.

[0118] Therefore, the LED lighting fixture 1D and LED lighting device 3D shown in Figure 20 have the same effects as the above embodiment. For example, when attaching or detaching the LED lighting device 3D from the fixture body 2, a finger can be hooked onto the stepped surface formed on the main part 51, making it easy to attach and detach the LED lighting device 3D. In this modified example, the main part 51 is light-transmitting, and both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 have portions located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30, so the light distribution of the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50D can be controlled. In this case, in the end cap 50D of this modified example, the outer surface 51a of the main part 51 is a stepped surface, so the atmosphere of the light around the longitudinal end of the LED lighting device 3D can be made distinctive.

[0119] (Modification 4) Next, Modification 4 will be explained using Figures 21 and 22. Figure 21 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50E according to Modification 4. Figure 22 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture 1E according to Modification 4.

[0120] The modified LED lighting fixture 1E and LED lighting device 3E are configured such that the end cap 50 is changed to the end cap 50E shown in Figure 21, in the same configuration as the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to the above embodiment.

[0121] The end cap 50E shown in Figure 21 has a curved portion of the main part 51, similar to the end cap 50B in the modified example 2 described above. However, unlike the end cap 50B in the modified example 2, the main part 51 has a portion that curves outward in a convex manner.

[0122] Specifically, in the end cap 50B in Modification 2, the outer surfaces 51a and 51b of the main portion 51 were curved in a convex shape overall, with the outer surfaces 51a and 51b of the main portion 51 being convex inward. However, in the end cap 50E in this Modification, the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 are curved in a convex shape overall, with the outer surfaces 51a and 51b being convex outward. As an example, the main portion 51 of the end cap 50E is parabolic in shape.

[0123] Furthermore, in this modified example, the end cap 50E has a flange portion 54 around the periphery of the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51, and the part of the main portion 51 near the connection portion 52 is positioned inward compared to other parts. It is preferable that the entire outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is positioned inward from the end of the diffusion cover 30. In other words, it is preferable that the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 does not protrude from the end face of the diffusion cover 30. In this modified example, the entire outer surface 51a of the main portion 51 is positioned inward from the tip of the flange portion 54.

[0124] Furthermore, in the end cap 50E shown in Figure 21, as shown in Figure 22, both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 have a portion located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30, and the outer surface 51a is an inclined curved surface. As a result, the main portion 51 of the end cap 50E also has a structure in which a hook portion is present.

[0125] Therefore, the LED lighting fixture 1E and LED lighting device 3E shown in Figure 22 have the same effects as the embodiment described above. For example, when attaching or detaching the LED lighting device 3E from the fixture body 2, the outer surface 51a, which is a convex curved surface, makes it easier to grip with a finger, thus making it easy to attach and detach the LED lighting device 3E. In addition, in this modified example, the main part 51 is light-transmitting, and both the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b of the main part 51 have portions located inside the end of the diffusion cover 30, so the light distribution of the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50E can be controlled.

[0126] Furthermore, in this modified example, the end cap 50E is curved in a convex shape overall, with the outer surface 51a and inner surface 51b of the main portion 51 being convex outwards. As a result, in this modified example, the LED lighting device 3E can have a different light distribution for the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50E than the LED lighting devices 3 and 3A to 3D in the above embodiment and modified examples 1 to 3.

[0127] Furthermore, in this modified example, the end cap 50E has a flange portion 54 around the outer surface 51a of the main portion 51, making it easier to grip the end cap 50E with your fingers compared to the above embodiment and modified examples 1 to 3. This makes it even easier to attach and detach the LED lighting device 3E.

[0128] (Variation 5) Next, Modification 5 will be explained using Figures 23 and 24. Figure 23 is a diagram showing the configuration of the end cap 50F according to Modification 5. Figure 24 is a diagram showing the configuration of the LED lighting fixture 1F according to Modification 5.

[0129] The LED lighting fixture 1F and LED lighting device 3F according to this modified example are configured such that the end cap 50 is changed to an end cap 50F of the shape shown in Figure 23, in the same configuration as the LED lighting fixture 1 and LED lighting device 3 according to the above embodiment.

[0130] In the end cap 50F shown in Figure 23, similar to the end cap 50 in the above embodiment, the main part 51 has a partially protruding hooking part 53. However, unlike the end cap 50 in the above embodiment, the hooking part 53F protrudes outward. In other words, in the above embodiment, the hooking part 53 was formed so that a part of the main part 51 protruded toward the LED 20 side (inward), but in the modified example, the hooking part 53F is formed so that a part of the main part 51 protrudes toward the opposite side from the LED 20 side. Specifically, the hooking part 53F has a shape in which the outer surface 51a protrudes and the inner surface 51b is recessed.

[0131] Furthermore, in this modified example, the hook portion 53F is formed in a rib shape and extends linearly along the X-axis. Also, the hook portion 53F is formed in the central part of the main portion 51 in the vertical direction, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the size of the hook portion 53F is not particularly limited, but it should be at least large enough for a person's finger to catch on.

[0132] In this modified example, the end cap 50F also has a hook portion 53F formed so that an external hooking element can be hooked onto it, similar to the embodiment described above.

[0133] Therefore, the LED lighting fixture 1F and LED lighting device 3F shown in Figure 24 have the same effects as the embodiment described above. For example, when attaching or detaching the LED lighting device 3F from the fixture body 2, a finger can be hooked onto the hook portion 53F that protrudes outward, making it easy to attach and detach the LED lighting device 3F. Also, in this modified example, since the main portion 51 is light-transmitting, the light distribution of the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50F can be controlled.

[0134] (Other variations) Although the LED lighting fixture and LED lighting device according to the present invention have been described above based on embodiments and modifications, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and modifications.

[0135] For example, in the above embodiment, the hook portion 53 formed in the main portion 51 was a groove with a bottom, but it is not limited to this. Specifically, the hook portion 53 may be a through hole. In this case, the hook portion 53, which is a through hole, may be a long slit, a round hole, a polygon, a star shape, etc.

[0136] Furthermore, the size and shape of the hook portion 53 are not particularly limited, but they should be of a size and shape that makes it easy for a person's finger or an external hooking element such as a jig to catch on. For example, the shape of the hook portion 53 may be cross-shaped or the like.

[0137] Furthermore, although only one hook portion 53 was formed on the main portion 51 in the above embodiment, this is not limited to this. In other words, multiple hook portions 53 may be formed on the main portion 51. For example, two groove-shaped hook portions 53 may be formed parallel to each other on the main portion 51. The layout of the multiple hook portions 53 is also not particularly limited, and any layout can be adopted.

[0138] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the main portion 51 of the end cap 50 may have a prism on at least one of the outer surface 51a and the inner surface 51b that deflects the direction of light from the LED 20. This makes it easy to control the light emitted from the LED 20 and transmitted through the end cap 50 so that it has a desired light distribution.

[0139] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b are arranged in opposite directions, but this is not limited to this. In other words, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b may be arranged in the same direction.

[0140] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b were of the same shape, but this is not limited to this. For example, the end caps of the above embodiment and modifications 1 to 5 may be combined as appropriate, and end caps of different shapes may be used for the first end cap 50a and the second end cap 50b.

[0141] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an SMD type LED element with an LED chip mounted in a package was used as the LED 20, and the light-emitting module consisting of the substrate 10 and the LED 20 was an SMD type LED module, but it is not limited to this. For example, the light-emitting module consisting of the substrate 10 and the LED 20 may be a COB (Chip On Board) type LED module. In this case, the LED chip (bare chip) itself can be used as the LED 20, and a plurality of LEDs 20 (LED chips) can be arranged linearly on the substrate 10, and the plurality of LEDs 20 can be sealed together or individually with a sealing member (for example, a phosphor-containing resin).

[0142] Furthermore, although a diffusion cover 30 having both diffusive and light-transmitting properties was used in the above embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the diffusion cover 30, a light-transmitting cover having only light-transmitting properties may be used. In this case, a transparent cover with such high transmittance that one can see through to the other side may be used as the light-transmitting cover.

[0143] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each of the above embodiments as conceived by those skilled in the art, as well as forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0144] 1, 1B, 1D, 1E, 1F LED lighting fixtures 2. Main body of the device 3, 3B, 3D, 3E, 3F LED lighting equipment 10 circuit boards 20 LED 30 Diffusion Cover 40 Support member 50, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E, 50F end caps 50a First End Cap 50b Second end cap 51 Main part 51a External surface 51b Inside surface 52 Connection part 53, 53F Hook section

Claims

1. A long substrate; a plurality of LEDs arranged on one surface of the substrate along the longitudinal direction of the substrate; a long translucent cover disposed opposite the one surface of the substrate so as to cover the plurality of LEDs; an end cap provided on one end side of the translucent cover in the longitudinal direction, the end cap has a plate-shaped main portion and a connecting portion that is directly or indirectly connected to the light-transmitting cover, the main portion has an outer surface and an inner surface as surfaces in a thickness direction of the main portion, The main portion has a hook portion formed so that the outer surface and the inner surface in a region near the connection portion are both located more inward than other regions of the main portion, thereby allowing an external hook element to be hooked thereon. LED lighting equipment.

2. the main portion has, as the hook portion, a portion where the outer surface and the inner surface are both located inside one end of the light-transmitting cover or an end surface of the end cap; The LED lighting device according to claim 1 .

3. All or a part of the main portion is translucent. The LED lighting device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. On the inner surface, the hook portion is located closer to the LED than other portions. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The hook portion is formed so as to approach the open end surface of the light-transmitting cover as it moves away from the connection portion. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The hook portion has a recessed outer surface. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. At least a part of an envelope of the outer surface in a cross section parallel to the longitudinal direction of the light-transmitting cover is curved. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The outer surface is generally concavely curved inward. The LED lighting device according to claim 7.

9. The outer surface is generally convexly curved so as to be convex outward. The LED lighting device according to claim 7.

10. At least a part of an envelope of the inner surface in a cross section parallel to the longitudinal direction of the light-transmitting cover is curved. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The inner surface is curved inwardly and concavely as a whole. The LED lighting device according to claim 10.

12. The inner surface is generally convexly curved so as to be convex outward. The LED lighting device according to claim 10.

13. The light-transmitting cover is a diffusing cover. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The main portion has a prism on at least one of the outer surface and the inner surface that deflects the direction of light from the LED. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. the end cap provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the light-transmitting cover is a first end cap, Further, a second end cap is provided at the other end of the translucent cover in the longitudinal direction, The shape of the second end cap is the same as the shape of the first end cap. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The first end cap and the second end cap are arranged in an opposite direction in the longitudinal direction of the LED lighting device.

16. The LED lighting device according to claim 15.

17. Further, an elongated support member is provided to support the substrate and the light-transmitting cover. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The LED lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17; and a fixture body that holds the LED lighting device. LED lighting fixture.

19. The LED lighting device is detachably attached to the fixture body.

19. The LED lighting fixture of claim 18.

Images