Enclosure with reversible lid

Abstract

An enclosure for one or more components comprising: a channel-shaped profile including a bottom wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall; a lid; and a latching means. The first and second side walls extend away from opposite sides of the bottom wall. The first and second side walls comprise a first and second hinge elements, respectively. The first and second hinge elements are symmetrical. The lid has a first edge with a complementary hinge element configured for being provided to one of the first and second hinge elements and for cooperating therewith to form a hinge between the lid and one of the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively. The latching means is provided to a second edge of the lid opposite the complementary hinge element and is configured for latching the lid to the other one of the first and second side walls.

Description

[0001] ENCLOSURE WITH REVERSIBLE LID

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The field of invention relates to enclosures with a reversible lid. Particular embodiments relate to enclosures for containing components suitable for a luminaire, and more particularly for containing electrical components.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Enclosures made to contain various components and to be mounted in situ are readily available and typically come either with a fixed architecture or with a reconfigurable architecture. The ones with the fixed architecture come with their inherent manufacturing constraints, related for example to their shapes, dimensions, and opening mechanisms; and the technician installing the enclosure in situ will have to adapt to these constraints, making concessions in order to do so. The ones with the reconfigurable architecture often come with many parts to be assembled by the technician which enable the reconfiguration but which can be cumbersome depending on the mounting situation. Further, due to the constant need for enclosures, the production cost is also a factor to be taken into account.

[0006] Typically, the weak points of enclosures are concentrated on where and how the lids of the enclosures cooperate with the rest. There is thus a need for a reliable and adaptable enclosure with a secure lid, and whose production cost is manageable.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide an enclosure with a reliable lid which is securely attached to the rest of the enclosure, while still offering some assembly flexibility.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an enclosure for one or more components, preferably for one or more electrical components. The enclosure comprises: a channel-shaped profile, a lid, and a latching means. The channel-shaped profile includes a bottom wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall. The first and second side walls extend away from opposite sides of the bottom wall. The lid is configured for closing a space defined by the bottom wall and the first and second side walls. The first side wall comprises a first hinge element, and the second side wall comprises a second hinge element. The first and second hinge elements are symmetrical. The lid has a first edge provided with a complementary hinge element. The complementary hinge element is configured for being provided to one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element and for cooperating with the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element to form a hinge between the lid and one of the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively. The latching means is provided to a second edge of the lid opposite the complementary hinge element. The latching means is configured for latching the lid to the other one of the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0010] Using the channel-shaped profile, space will be provided to install the one or more components within. The one or more components may be fixed chemically, mechanically, and / or magnetically to any of the first side wall, the second side wall, and / or the bottom wall. Additionally, the channel-shaped profile may be compartmented using one or more inner walls to make easier the installation of the one or more components. Additionally or alternatively, mounting brackets may be arranged within the channel-shaped profile to enable a more secure installation of the one or more components. In some embodiments, additional components and / or cables may be secured to an inside-facing surface of the lid, e.g. using glue.

[0011] Preferably, the first and second side walls extend away from the bottom wall while being substantially parallel to each other. More preferably, the first and second side walls extend away from the bottom wall in a substantially perpendicular manner.

[0012] To form the hinge between the lid and the one of the first side wall and the second side wall, a first contact surface of the first hinge element or the second hinge element and a second contact surface of the complementary hinge element cooperating with the first contact surface may have arcuate concentric profiles centered around a pivot axis of the formed hinge.

[0013] Due to the symmetrical nature of the first hinge element and the second hinge element, the lid may be mounted with the hinge formed on either side of the channel-shaped profile. In other words, the lid may be turned around 180° in order to form the hinge either at the level of the first side wall or at the level of the second side wall. Thus, there is no need for the technician mounting the enclosure in situ to modify an initial placement of the enclosure because of a difficulty in opening the enclosure. Also, the technician mounting the enclosure can change the side towards which the lid opens to enable an easier access to the contents of the enclosure.

[0014] Moreover, since the hinge is simply formed using the first hinge element or the second hinge element directly connected to the first side wall or the second side wall, respectively, as well as the complementary hinge element directly connected to the lid, assembling the lid to the channel-shaped profile is rendered more user-friendly to the technician due to the few parts forming the hinge. So, the ease of adaptability of the enclosure is improved. Finally, the latching means enables a secure closing of the lid to protect the one or more components installed within the enclosure.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the latching means is configured for abutting against an outer side of the other one of the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0016] In this way, the latching means can keep the lid in place by exerting compression against the other one of the first side wall and the second side wall due to the hinge formed oppositely relative to the lid. Additionally, since the abutting is against the outer side, there is no need for the technician installing the one or more components within the channel-shaped profile to worry about the placement of the one or more components at the level of where the latching means latches.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first and second hinge elements protrude outwardly from the first and second side walls, respectively, and the latching means is configured for extending at least partly over the first hinge element or the second hinge element.

[0018] It will be understood by the skilled person that the latching means, because it is extending at least partly over the first hinge element or the second hinge element, is not mechanically designed to cooperate with the first hinge element or the second hinge element in order to implement the functionality of a hinge.

[0019] In this manner, access to the inside of the channel-shaped profile is unimpeded by the presence of the first and second hinge elements. Also, it makes the assembly of the lid to the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element easier as an outward protrusion is more accessible than an inward one.

[0020] Due to the latching means extending at least partly over the first hinge element or the second hinge element, the first hinge element or the second hinge element do not hinder the opening or closing of the latching means.

[0021] In an embodiment, a gripping means extends from an extremity of the latching means to enable an easy grip of the latching means by the technician and thereby facilitates manipulation of the latching means.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the channel-shaped profile is manufactured by extrusion.

[0023] In this way, production of the channel-shaped profile is facilitated, and production costs can be simply managed. Additionally, the length of the channel-shaped profile, and therefore the volume capacity of the enclosure, can be easily modified. Preferably, the bottom wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall are made of the same material. Depending on embodiments, the channel-shaped profile is made of plastic or metal, preferably of metal, more preferably of aluminum. In an embodiment, the bottom wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall are integrally formed.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first and second hinge elements extend outwardly from an edge of the first and second side walls, respectively.

[0025] In this manner, the first and second hinge elements are more accessible when assembling the lid to the channel-shaped profile. Additionally, less material may be used to produce the lid.

[0026] Since the first and second hinge elements extend outwardly, the lid, when closed, will extend over the first side wall and the second side wall. So, ingress protection of the enclosure will be improved by the overlapping closure ensured by the lid.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the first and second hinge elements extend outwardly from an outer surface of the first and second side walls, respectively. To reach the first or second hinge element, the first edge of the lid will extend over the edge of the first and second side wall, thereby closing more securely the channel-shaped profile on the side of the first edge of the lid.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the complementary hinge element is slidable relative to the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element along an axis substantially parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge.

[0029] In this way, assembling the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element with the complementary hinge element does not require complex operations.

[0030] In an embodiment, the complementary hinge element surrounds the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element when assembled. In another embodiment, the complementary hinge element is surrounded by the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element when assembled.

[0031] Preferably, the complementary hinge element and the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element can only be assembled by sliding one with respect to the other along the axis (the assembly axis) substantially parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge, translation motions along other axes being prevented when assembled. Due to that, the lid may be pivotally connected to the channel-shaped profile in a secure manner, and a strong hinge is formed. According to an exemplary embodiment, the hinge formed by the complementary hinge element cooperating with the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element is configured for enabling the lid to be opened at an angle up to 90°.

[0032] In other embodiments, the hinge may be configured for enabling the lid to be opened at an angle up to 100°, 110°, or 120°.

[0033] The opening angle may be defined as the angle, as seen in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge, between the second edge of the lid, the pivot axis of the hinge, and the edge of the other one of the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0034] By enabling the lid to be opened at an angle up to 90°, access to the inside of the channelshaped profile when the lid is fully opened is unimpeded. Additionally, when the enclosure is mounted upright or upside down, the lid may stay in its fully opened position by itself due to gravity.

[0035] In an embodiment, one or more articulated brackets may be provided between the lid and the one of the first side wall and the second side wall to facilitate a locking of the lid in a desired opened position and / or prevent opening the lid above a predetermined opening angle.

[0036] According to a favored embodiment, the hinge is formed by the cooperation of an inner surface of the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element with an outer surface of the complementary hinge element.

[0037] Thusly, dislodging of the complementary hinge element is rendered more difficult, and the lid is better secured to the channel-shaped profiled.

[0038] Additionally, in an embodiment, the latching means may extend, at least partly, over the first hinge element or the second hinge element. Thus, the lid is provided with an asymmetrical design with the complementary hinge element having the function of forming the hinge and the latching means having the separate distinct function of latching the lid.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, each of the first hinge element and the second hinge element defines a double-lobe cavity as seen in a plane perpendicular to a pivot axis of the hinge, said double-lobe cavity including a side opening facing the lid. The complementary hinge element is configured for being provided partially within the double-lobe cavity.

[0040] In this manner, a cavity is obtained whose various inner surfaces are employed as contact surfaces to form the hinge in cooperation with corresponding outer surfaces of the complementary hinge element located within the double-lobe cavity. More specifically, a first inner surface of a first lobe of the double-lobe cavity and a second inner surface of a second lobe of the double-lobe cavity may be configured as contact surfaces to form the hinge. The first inner surface of the first lobe and the second inner surface of the second lobe may be arranged oppositely of the double-lobe cavity to ensure a secure mechanical operation of the hinge.

[0041] Preferably, each of the first lobe and the second lobe is defined by one circle arc, both circle arcs being concentric and the common center of the circle arcs corresponding to the pivot axis of the hinge.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first lobe and the second lobe are connected by a connecting arc. Using the connecting arc enables to use less material when producing the first and second hinge elements by extrusion. Preferably, in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge, a thickness of material making out the first lobe, the second lobe, and the connecting arc is constant.

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment, the complementary hinge element comprises an arcshaped portion having an outer surface configured for cooperating with an inner surface of the double-lobe cavity such as to allow a pivoting motion of the hinge.

[0044] The skilled person will understand that the complementary hinge element comprising the arc-shaped portion may also be configured for cooperating with an inner surface of a single-lobe cavity (or cylinder) while still forming a hinge.

[0045] Also, the outer surface of the arc-shaped portion and the inner surface of the double-lobe cavity may be surface treated in order to facilitate, or on the contrary hinder, the pivoting motion of the hinge. For example, the outer surface and / or the inner surface may be polished, roughened, patterned and / or chemically coated.

[0046] In this way, using the arc-shaped portion instead of a fully cylindrical portion, less material may be used when manufacturing the lid.

[0047] Preferably, the arc-shaped portion is of constant thickness to further save material.

[0048] In an embodiment the arc-shaped portion comprises a first arc-shaped portion configured for cooperating with the first inner surface of the first lobe and a second arc-shaped portion configured for cooperating with the second inner surface of the second lobe. Further a linking portion connecting the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion may be configured for abutting against an extremity forming the first hinge element or the second hinge element such as to stop the opening of the lid above a predetermined angle.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the complementary hinge element further comprises an extension portion extending away from the lid, said extension portion configured for preventing the complementary hinge element from going out of the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element through the side opening.

[0050] By having this extension portion, when the lid is fully opened and as seen in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge, there is no gap formed in the side opening due to the extension portion showing through it, thereby blocking the complementary hinge element within the double-lobe cavity and preventing its dislodging.

[0051] In this manner, the hinge is still mechanically secure in a fully opened position of the lid.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, a lip extends away from the second edge of the lid, said lip being configured for resting on the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element.

[0053] In this way, the lid covers completely the opening of the channel-shaped profile at the side opposite the hinge and procures a better protection for the one or more components located within the enclosure.

[0054] According to a favored embodiment, an inner surface of the lip is configured for matching with an outer surface of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element.

[0055] Additionally, each of the first hinge element and the second hinge element may be defined by a cavity as seen in a plane perpendicular to a pivot axis of the hinge, said cavity including a side opening facing the lid, and the complementary hinge element may be configured for being provided partially within the cavity. The inner surface of the lip may extend from the second edge of the lid and cover the side opening of the cavity of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element.

[0056] Thusly, ingress of external elements at the level of the lip is rendered more difficult due to the barrier achieved by matching surfaces in contact when the lid is closed.

[0057] According to a favored embodiment, the lip extending from the second edge of the lid has a first profile which is asymmetrical relative to a second profile of the complementary hinge element provided to the first edge of the lid, such that the lip is dedicated to the closure of the enclosure by the lid and the complementary hinge element is dedicated to forming the hinge of the lid. Thusly, the lid used has extremities dedicated to their respective functionalities, closing off and allowing a pivoting motion, while both extremities have shapes adapted to cooperate with the symmetrical first hinge element and second hinge element.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, the lip comprises a latch mounting portion configured for pivotally mounting the latching means thereto.

[0059] In this manner, the latching means is fixed to the lid, making one less free part for the technician to track when assembling the enclosure.

[0060] Depending on embodiments, the lip may comprise a plurality of latch mounting portions to offer more options to mount the latching means and / or to mount a plurality of latching means. For example, the latch mounting portion may be integral to the lip or may be a separate element mounted to the lid. The latch mounting portion may also consist of a single latch mounting portion extending along the length of the lid.

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment, the latching means is slidable relative to the latch mounting portion along an axis substantially parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge.

[0062] In this way, assembling the one of the latching means and the latch mounting portion does not require complex operations.

[0063] In an embodiment, the lid is manufactured by extrusion and the latch mounting portion runs along the length of the lid. This allows for the latching means to be mounted at any point along the length of the lid. However, the skilled person will understand that there are other means to obtain the latch mounting portion than by extrusion. For example, the lid could be machined at one or more predetermined locations in order to obtain one or more corresponding latch mounting portions and have a “tailor-made” enclosure.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the lid comprises a first internal supporting element and a second internal supporting element configured for resting on a first flange portion of the first side wall and a second flange portion of the second side wall, respectively.

[0065] In this manner, pression on the lid does not cause pression on the first and second hinge elements which could cause deformation. Additionally, the first and second internal supporting elements provide a supplementary ingress barrier against external elements which could enter the enclosure while the lid is closed. Preferably, the first flange portion and the second flange portion extend inwardly, for example substantially perpendicularly, away from the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively. In an embodiment, the first and second internal supporting elements and / or the first and second flange portions extend along the length of the lid and the length of the channel-shaped profile, respectively.

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment, the latching means comprises a locking element, said locking element configured for, in a latched position of the latching means, locking the latching means in position by compression against the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element.

[0067] In this way, the lid of the enclosure is maintained in a closed position more reliably.

[0068] In an embodiment, the latching means and the locking element are pivotally coupled. To provide for compression, the locking element may be curved which imparts some springiness to said locking element.

[0069] An external recess of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element may be configured for cooperating with an extremity of the locking element. Preferably, the external recess is provided on a side of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element opposite the lip of the lid, in a closed state of the lid. Alternatively, the external recess may be provided on a side of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element opposite the second edge of the lid, in a closed state of the lid. By enabling the application of convergent forces to opposite sides of the other one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element, the locking element maintains effectively the lid closed.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, the enclosure further comprises an end cap configured for being mounted to an end of the channel-shaped profile.

[0071] In this manner, the enclosure is fully closed on all sides.

[0072] The end cap may be in the same material or in a different material as the channel-shaped profile, preferably in the same material.

[0073] The end cap may comprise one or more through-holes, optionally provided with grommets, to allow cables to pass through.

[0074] The end cap may also comprise a pressure equalizing means configured for equalizing an internal pressure of the enclosure and an external pressure. The pressure equalizing means may include a flexible membrane provided to a passage between the inside of the enclosure and outside. A cap sealing means may be arranged between the end cap and the channel-shaped profile to improve sealing.

[0075] In an embodiment, the end cap may comprise a first end cap part configured for cooperating with the channel-shaped profile, and a second end cap part configured for cooperating with the lid.

[0076] The skilled person will understand that the hereinabove described technical considerations and advantages for embodiments of an enclosure also apply to the below described corresponding electric box embodiments, mutatis mutandis.

[0077] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an electric box of a luminaire. The electric box comprises: an enclosure having any one of the characteristics described above; and a driver for the luminaire provided within the enclosure.

[0078] Preferably, the luminaire is for outdoor lighting and / or industrial lighting. By outdoor lighting and / or industrial lighting, it is meant luminaires which are installed on roads, tunnels, industrial plants, stadiums, airports, harbors, rail stations, campuses, parks, cycle paths, pedestrian paths or in pedestrian zones, for example, and which can be used notably for the lighting of an outdoor area or large indoor area, such as roads and residential areas in the public domain, private parking areas and access roads to private building infrastructures, warehouses, industry halls, etc.

[0079] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0080] The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate presently preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments of devices of the present invention. The above and other advantages of the features and objects of the invention will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0081] Figure 1 illustrates a cut side view of an exemplary embodiment of an enclosure;

[0082] Figures 2A and 2B show close-up views of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 at the level of the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively;

[0083] Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an enclosure;

[0084] Figures 4A-4D represent side-views of different embodiments of hinges.

[0085] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Figure 1 illustrates a cut sideview of an exemplary embodiment of an enclosure according to the present invention. The enclosure 1 is configured for containing one or more components 2, preferably for containing one or more electrical components. In a preferred embodiment, the enclosure 1 is utilized to implement an electric box of a luminaire. The electric box comprises: the enclosure 1; and a driver 2 for the luminaire, said driver being provided within the enclosure 1.

[0086] The enclosure 1 comprises: a channel-shaped profile 20, a lid 10, and a latching means 30. The channel-shaped profile 20 includes a bottom wall 23, a first side wall 21, and a second side wall 22. The one or more components 2 may be fixed chemically, mechanically, and / or magnetically to any of the first side wall 21, the second side wall 22, and / or the bottom wall 23. In the embodiment of Fig.1 , the component 2 is fixed mechanically via screws in fixing gullets 231 arranged against the bottom wall 23. The lid 10 may also comprise a fixing gullet 101 configured for enabling the fixation of various elements, e.g. for fixing a cable or a component. Other fixing gullets 231’ may also be arranged against the first and second side walls 21, 22. In other embodiments, additional components and / or cables may be secured to an inside-facing surface of the lid, e.g. using glue.

[0087] Additionally, the channel-shaped profile 20 may be compartmented using one or more inner walls to make easier the installation of the one or more components 2. Additionally or alternatively, mounting brackets may be arranged within the channel-shaped profile 20 to enable a more secure installation of the one or more components 2.

[0088] The first and second side walls 21, 22 extend away from opposite sides of the bottom wall 23. In the embodiment of Fig.l, the first and second side walls 21, 22 extend away from the bottom wall 23 while being substantially parallel to each other. More specifically, the first and second side walls 21, 22 extend away from the bottom wall 23 in a substantially perpendicular manner.

[0089] The lid 10 is configured for closing a space defined by the bottom wall 23 and the first and second side walls 21, 23. The first side wall 21 comprises a first hinge element 210, and the second side wall 22 comprises a second hinge element 220. The first and second hinge elements 210, 220 are symmetrical. The first hinge element 210 will be described in more details with reference to Fig.2A. The skilled person will understand that, due to the symmetrical nature of the first and second hinge elements 210, 220, the characteristics of the first hinge element 210 described can be found also in the second hinge element 220.

[0090] The lid 10 has a first edge provided with a complementary hinge element 110. The complementary hinge element 110 is configured for being provided to one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220, the first hinge element 210 in Fig.l, and for cooperating with the one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 to form a hinge between the lid 10 and one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22, respectively, the first side wall 21 in Fig.l. In the embodiment of Fig.1, the hinge is simply formed using the first hinge element 210 directly connected to the first side wall 21, as well as the complementary hinge element 110 directly connected to the lid 10, and the interaction between their respective contact surfaces. The complementary hinge element 110 will also be described in more details with reference to Fig.2A.

[0091] A lip 120 may extend away from a second edge of the lid 10. The lip 120 may be configured for resting on the other one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220, on the second hinge element 220 in Fig.l. More specifically, an inner surface of the lip 120 may be configured for matching with an outer surface of the other one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220. In other words, when the lid 10 is closed the inner surface of the lip 120 is in full contact with the outer surface of the other one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220; thereby providing an effective entry barrier to the enclosure from external elements. Additionally, the lip 120 extending from the second edge of the lid may have a first profile which is asymmetrical relative to a second profile of the complementary hinge element 110 provided to the first edge of the lid 10, such that the lip 120 is dedicated to the closure of the enclosure by the lid 10 and the complementary hinge element 110 is dedicated to forming the hinge of the lid. Having the designs of each extremity of the lid 10 being adequate to their functions allows for a better efficiency in achieving these respective functions.

[0092] The latching means 30 is provided to the second edge of the lid 10 opposite the complementary hinge element 110, and may be mounted to the lip 120. The latching means 30 is configured for latching the lid 10 to the other one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22, the second side wall 22 in Fig.l. A gripping means 301 may extend from an extremity of the latching means 30 to enable an easy grip of the latching means by the technician. The gripping means 301 may comprise a curved portion to favor manual prehension.

[0093] The latching means 30 is configured for abutting against an outer side of the other one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22. The latching means 30 can keep the lid 10 in place by exerting compression against the other one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22 due to the hinge formed oppositely relative to the lid 10. In the embodiment of Fig.l, the latching means exerts compression on an outer side portion 201 of the second wall located next to the bottom wall 23. The latching means 30 will be described in more details with reference to Fig.2B.

[0094] The channel-shaped profile 20 may be manufactured by extrusion. In an embodiment, the bottom wall 23, the first side wall 21, and the second side wall 22 are integrally formed. Preferably, the bottom wall 23, the first side wall 21, and the second side wall 22 may be made of the same material. Depending on embodiments, the channel-shaped profile 20 may be made of plastic or metal, preferably of metal, more preferably of aluminum, even more preferably of anodized aluminum. To improve rigidity, as well as to allows circulation to air which acts as a natural coolant, a closed conduit 232 may extend along the length of the bottom wall 23, preferably substantially in the middle of the bottom wall 23. Further, the lid 10 may also be manufactured by extrusion. Preferably, the lid 10 and the channel-shaped profile 20 may be made of the same material.

[0095] The enclosure 1 may further comprise an end cap (not shown) configured for being mounted to an end of the channel-shaped profile 20. In order to do so, the channel-shaped profile 20 may be provided with a plurality of profile mounting points 202 suitable for cooperating with screws inserted substantially perpendicular to the end cap. In an embodiment, the end cap may comprise a first end cap part configured for cooperating with the channel-shaped profile 20, and a second end cap part configured for cooperating with the lid 10. To mount the first end cap part to the lid 10, the lid 10 may be provided with a plurality of lid mounting points 102 having similar characteristics as the plurality of profile mounting points 202. The end cap may be in the same material or in a different material as the channel-shaped profile 20. A cap sealing means (not shown) may be arranged between the end cap and the channel-shaped profile 20 to improve sealing.

[0096] Additionally, a first slot 217 of the first side wall 21 and a second slot 217 of the second side wall 22 which are located near the bottom wall 23 may be employed to place one or more wall mounts (not shown) on either side of the channel-shaped profile 20. The one or more wall mounts may be configured for mounting the enclosure to a mounting support, such as a wall or a ceiling. For example, the first and second slots 217 may be configured for a nut to be slid within, and a wall mount of the one or more wall mounts may be fixed to the channel-shaped profile 20 using a nut and bolt fixation. Further, a nut can also be slid within the first and second slots 217 in order to lock in a closed state the latching means using a bolt going through a portion of the latching means 30.

[0097] Figures 2A and 2B show close-up views of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 according to the present invention at the level of the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively.

[0098] As described above with reference to Fig.1 , a hinge is simply formed using the first hinge element 210 directly connected to the first side wall 21, as well as the complementary hinge element 110 directly connected to the lid 10, and the interaction between their respective contact surfaces. A pivot axis PA of the hinge may be substantially parallel to a length of the channelshaped profile. The skilled person will understand that, due to the symmetrical nature of the first hinge element and the second hinge elements (shown in Fig.2B), the characteristics of the first hinge element 210 described in the embodiment of Fig.2A can be found also in the second hinge element. In the embodiments of Figs.2A-2B, the first and second hinge elements 210, 220 protrude outwardly from the first and second side walls 21, 22, respectively. More specifically, the first and second hinge elements 210, 220 extend outwardly from an edge of the first and second side walls 21, 22, respectively. In the embodiment of Fig.2A, the outward protrusion of the first hinge element 210 defines a cavity 212, 214 within which the complementary hinge element 110 is inserted. Also, since the first and second hinge elements 210, 220 extend outwardly, the lid 10 will have an overall width larger than an opening width measured between the edge of the first side wall 21 and the edge of the second side wall 22. Thus, when closed, the lid 10 will extend over the opening formed between the edge of the first side wall 21 and the edge of the second side wall 22.

[0099] To form the hinge between the lid 10 and the first side wall 21, a first contact surface 211, 213 of the first hinge element 210 and a second contact surface 111, 113 of the complementary hinge element 110 cooperating with the first contact surface 211, 213 may have arcuate concentric profiles centered around the pivot axis PA of the formed hinge. The first contact surface 211 of the first hinge element 210 may include an inner surface of the cavity 212, 214. The second contact surface 111 , 113 of the complementary hinge element 110 may include an outer surface of the complementary hinge element 110.

[0100] In the embodiment of Figs.2A-2B, the cavity 212, 214 of each of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 may be defined as a double-lobe cavity 212, 214 as seen in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis PA of the hinge. The double-lobe cavity 212, 214 may include a side opening 216 facing the lid 10, and through which the complementary hinge element 110 may extend to connect to the lid 10. The complementary hinge element 110 may be configured for being provided partially within the double-lobe cavity 212, 214.

[0101] The double-lobe cavity 212, 214 illustrated in Fig.2A includes various inner surfaces which may be employed as contact surfaces to form the hinge in cooperation with corresponding various outer surfaces of the complementary hinge element 110 partially located within the doublelobe cavity 212, 214. More specifically, the first contact surface 211 of the first hinge element 210 may include a first inner surface 211 of a first lobe 212 of the double-lobe cavity and a second inner surface 213 of a second lobe 214 of the double-lobe cavity 212, 214, and both may be configured as contact surfaces to form the hinge. The first inner surface 211 of the first lobe 212 and the second inner surface 213 of the second lobe 214 may be arranged oppositely of the doublelobe cavity 212, 214 to ensure a secure mechanical operation of the hinge.

[0102] Preferably, each of the first lobe 212 and the second lobe 214 is defined by a circle arc, both circle arcs being arcs of concentric circles whose common center corresponds to the pivot axis PA of the hinge. As represented in dotted lines in Fig.2A, the first inner surface 211 of the first lobe 212 follows a first circle with a first diameter dl, and the second inner surface 213 of the second lobe 214 follows a second circle with a second diameter d2, larger than dl. In the embodiment of Fig.2A, the first lobe and the second lobe are connected by a connecting arc 215. Preferably, in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis PA of the hinge, a thickness of material making out the first lobe 212, and / or the second lobe 214, and / or the connecting arc 215 is constant.

[0103] The complementary hinge element 110 may comprise an arc-shaped portion 112, 114 having a first outer surface 111 configured for cooperating with the first inner surface 211 of the double-lobe cavity 212, 214 such as to allow a pivoting motion of the hinge. Preferably, in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis PA of the hinge, a thickness of material making out the arcshaped portion 112, 114 is constant to further save material. The skilled person will understand that the complementary hinge element comprising the arc-shaped portion may also be configured for cooperating with an inner surface of a single-lobe cavity (or cylinder) while still forming a hinge. Also, the first outer surface 111 of the arc-shaped portion and the first inner surface 211 of the double-lobe cavity may be surface treated in order to facilitate, or on the contrary hinder, the pivoting motion of the hinge. For example, the outer surface first 111 and / or the first inner surface 211 may be polished, roughened, patterned, and / or chemically coated.

[0104] In the embodiment of Fig.2A, the arc-shaped portion 112, 114 comprises a first arc-shaped portion 112 arranged within the first lobe 212 and having the first outer surface 111 configured for cooperating with the first inner surface 211 of the first lobe 212, and a second arc-shaped portion 114 arranged within the second lobe 214 and having a second outer surface 113 configured for cooperating with the second inner surface 213 of the second lobe 214. Similarly as for the first inner surface 211 and the first outer surface 111, the second outer surface 113 of the arc-shaped portion and the second inner surface 213 of the double-lobe cavity may be surface treated in order to facilitate, or on the contrary hinder, the pivoting motion of the hinge. The second arc-shaped portion 114 then connects with the first edge of the lid 10. Further a linking portion 115 connecting the first arc-shaped portion 112 and the second arc-shaped portion 114 may be configured for abutting against an extremity of the outward protrusion forming the first hinge element 210 such as to stop the opening of the lid 10 above a predetermined angle.

[0105] The hinge formed by the complementary hinge element 110 cooperating with the one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 is configured for enabling the lid to be opened at an angle up to 90°. The opening angle may be defined as the angle, as seen in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis PA of the hinge, between the second edge of the lid 10, the pivot axis PA of the hinge, and the edge of the other one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22. Opening above this angle may be prevented by the abutting of the linking portion 115. In other embodiments, the hinge may be configured for enabling the lid to be opened at an angle up to 100°, 110°, or 120°. Additionally, in an embodiment, one or more articulated brackets (not shown) may be provided between the lid 10 and the one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22 to facilitate a locking of the lid in a desired opened position and / or prevent opening the lid 10 above a predetermined opening angle.

[0106] The complementary hinge element 110 may further comprise an extension portion 116 extending away from the lid 10, said extension portion 116 being configured for preventing the complementary hinge element 110 from going out of the first hinge element 210 through the side opening 216. In the embodiment of Fig.2A, the extension portion 116 extends opposite the second arc-shaped portion 114 relative to the linking portion 115. The extension portion 116 may be further configured for cooperating with the second inner surface 213 of the second lobe 214 and / or an inner surface of the connection portion 215. By having this extension portion 116, when the lid 10 is fully opened and as seen in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis PA of the hinge, there is no gap formed in the side opening 216 due to the extension portion 116 showing through it, thereby blocking the complementary hinge element 110 partially within the double-lobe cavity 212, 214 and preventing its dislodging.

[0107] The complementary hinge element 110 may be slidable relative to the one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 along an axis (for example, an assembly axis) substantially parallel to the pivot axis PA of the hinge. Preferably, the complementary hinge element 110 and the one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 can only be assembled by sliding one with respect to the other along the assembly axis substantially parallel to the pivot axis PA of the hinge, translation motions along other axes being prevented when assembled.

[0108] The skilled person will understand that, depending on embodiments, the complementary hinge element may surround the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element when assembled, or instead, the complementary hinge element may be surrounded by the one of the first hinge element and the second hinge element when assembled.

[0109] When considering the characteristics shown in Fig.2B, due to the symmetrical nature of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220, the skilled person will understand that the lid 10 may be mounted with the hinge formed on either side of the channel-shaped profile.

[0110] In the embodiment of Fig.2B, the second hinge element 220 protrudes outwardly from the second side wall 22, respectively, and the latching means is configured for extending at least partly over the first hinge element or the second hinge element. More specifically, the second hinge elements 220 may extend outwardly from the edge of the second side wall 22.

[0111] A lip 120 may extend away from the second edge of the lid 10, said lip 120 being configured for resting on the other one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220, for resting on the second hinge element 220 in Fig.2B. In the embodiment of Fig.2B, the lip 120 extends such as to rest on top of the second hinge element 220, more specifically such as to rest on an outer surface of what forms a first lobe 222 of a double-lobe cavity 222, 224 of the second hinge element 220. Thanks to the lip 120, the lid 10 may extend over the edge of the second wall 22, thereby procuring a better protection for the one or more components located within the enclosure. More precisely, the lip 120 may extend away from the second edge of the lid 10 such as to cover a side opening of the second hinge element 220 in a closed state of the lid. In that way, the lip 120 helps in centering the lid 10 relative to the channel-shaped profile 20, as well as preventing water from accumulating in the second hinge element 220 and potentially penetrating into the channel-shaped profile 20.

[0112] Further, the lip 120 may comprise a latch mounting portion 125 configured for pivotally mounting the latching means 30 thereto. In another embodiment, the latch mounting portion 125 may be directly connected to the second edge of the lid 10. Depending on embodiments, the lip 120 may comprise a plurality of latch mounting portions 125 to offer more options to mount the latching means 125 and / or to mount a plurality of latching means 125.

[0113] In the embodiment of Fig.2B, the latch mounting portion 125 comprises a concave profile configured for arranging within a mounting extremity 302 of the latching means 30, said mounting extremity 302 being cylindrical-shaped. Due to the cooperation of the concave profile of the latch mounting portion 125 and the cylindrical shape of the mounting extremity 302, a pivot coupling is obtained. A rotation axis of this pivot coupling may be substantially parallel to the pivot axis PA of the hinge. In another embodiment, it may be the inverse and the latch mounting portion may be cylindrical-shaped while the mounting extremity of the latching means may comprise a corresponding concave profile. Additionally, the latching mounting portion may comprise an articulated connection including a plurality of pivots.

[0114] Also, the latching means 30 may be slidable relative to the latch mounting portion 125 along an axis substantially parallel to the pivot axis PA of the hinge. In an embodiment, the lid 10 may be manufactured by extrusion and the latch mounting portion 125 may run along the length of the lid 10. This allows for the latching means 30 to be mounted at any point along the length of the lid.

[0115] The latching means 30 may comprise a locking element 310. The locking element 310 is configured for, in a latched position of the latching means 30, locking the latching means 30 in position by compression against the other one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220, against the second hinge element 220 in Fig.2B. In the embodiment of Fig.2B, the latching means 30 and the locking element 310 are pivotally coupled. The pivot coupling between the locking element 310 and the rest of the latching means 30 may be implemented by a second cylindrical-shaped element extremity 312 arranged within a concave mounting point 303 of the latching means 30. To provide for compression, the locking element 310 may be curved which imparts some springiness to said locking element 310. Further, an external recess 227 of the other one of the first hinge element 310 and the second hinge element 220 may be configured for cooperating with a first cylindrical-shaped element extremity 311 of the locking element 310. In the embodiment of Fig.2B, the external recess 227 is provided on a side of the second hinge element 220 opposite the lip 120 of the lid 10, more specifically to an outer surface of what forms the second lobe 224 of the double-lobe cavity 222, 224 of the second hinge element 220. By enabling the application of convergent forces to opposite sides of the second hinge element 220, the locking element 310 maintains effectively the lid 10 closed.

[0116] Additionally, as shown in Figs.2A-2B, the lid 10 may comprise a first internal supporting element 103 and a second internal supporting element 103’ configured for resting on a first flange portion 203 of the first side wall 21 and a second flange portion 203’ of the second side wall 22, respectively. Preferably, the first flange portion 103 and the second flange portion 103’ extend inwardly, for example substantially perpendicularly, away from the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22, respectively. In an embodiment, the first and second internal supporting elements 103, 103’ and / or the first and second flange portions 203, 203’ extend along the length of the lid 10 and the length of the channel-shaped profile, respectively. Moreover, next to the first internal supporting element 103 and the second internal supporting element 103’, the lid 10 may comprise a first seal compressing element 104 and a second seal compressing element 104’, respectively. When the lid 10 is closed, the first seal compressing element 104 and the second seal compressing element 104’ are configured for facing a first seal gutter 204 and a second seal gutter 204’, respectively. The first seal gutter 204 and the second seal gutter 204’ may be provided next to the first flange portion 203 and the second flange portion 203’, respectively. The first seal gutter 204 and the second seal gutter 204’ may be configured for arranging within a sealing means (not shown). The sealing means allows preventing water ingress when the lid 10 is closed. The first internal supporting element 103 and the second internal supporting element 103’ allow avoiding for an over-compression of the lid 10 on the sealing means by the first seal compressing element 104 and the second seal compressing element 104’.

[0117] Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an enclosure for one or more components according to the present invention.

[0118] The enclosure 1 comprises: a channel-shaped profile 20, a lid 10, and a latching means 30. The channel-shaped profile 20 includes a bottom wall 23, and a first side wall 21 and a second side wall 22. The first and second side walls 21, 22 extend away from opposite sides of the bottom wall 23. The lid 10 is configured for closing a space defined by the bottom wall 23 and the first and second side walls 21, 22. The first side wall 21 comprises a first hinge element 210, and the second side wall 22 comprises a second hinge element 220. The first and second hinge elements 210, 220 are symmetrical. The lid 10 has a first edge provided with a complementary hinge element 110. The complementary hinge element 110 is configured for being provided to one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 and for cooperating with the one of the first hinge element 210 and the second hinge element 220 to form a hinge between the lid 10 and one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22, respectively.

[0119] The latching means 30 is provided to a second edge of the lid 10 opposite the complementary hinge element 110. The latching means 30 is configured for latching the lid 10 to the other one of the first side wall 21 and the second side wall 22. In the embodiment of Fig.3, the latching means 30 comprises a plurality of latching means arranged at regular intervals along the length of the enclosure 1.

[0120] The enclosure 1 may further comprise an end cap 40 configured for being mounted to an end of the channel-shaped profile 20. The enclosure 1 may further comprise another end cap 40’ configured for being mounted to another end of the channel-shaped profile 20. The end cap 40 and the another end cap 40’ may be similar.

[0121] The end cap 40 may be in the same material or in a different material as the channelshaped profile 20. The end cap 40 may comprise one or more through-holes (not shown), optionally provided with grommets, to allow cables to pass through. The end cap 40 may also comprise a pressure equalizing means 41 configured for equalizing an internal pressure of the enclosure 1 and an external pressure. The pressure equalizing means 41 may include a flexible membrane provided to a passage between the inside of the enclosure 1 and outside. A cap sealing means (not shown) may be arranged between the end cap 40 and the end of the channel-shaped profile 20 to improve sealing.

[0122] In an embodiment, the end cap may comprise a first end cap part 40a configured for cooperating with the channel-shaped profile 20, and a second end cap part 40b configured for cooperating with the lid 10. To mount the first end cap part 40a and the second end cap part 40b to the channel-shaped profile 20 and the lid 10, respectively, a plurality of fixation holes 42 may be provided at the periphery of the end cap 40.

[0123] Additionally, a first slot 217 of the first side wall 21 and a second slot (not shown) of the second side wall 22 which are located near the bottom wall 23 may be employed to place one or more wall mounts 50 on either side of the channel-shaped profile 20. The one or more wall mounts 50 may be configured for mounting the enclosure to a mounting support, such as a wall or a ceiling.

[0124] Figures 4A-4D represent side-views of different embodiments of hinges according to the present invention. As described above with reference to Fig.1 , a hinge is simply formed using the first hinge element 41 la-41 Id directly connected to the first side wall 410, as well as the complementary hinge element 42 la-42 Id directly connected to the lid 420, and the interaction between their respective contact surfaces. The skilled person will understand that, due to the symmetrical nature of the first hinge element 41 la-41 Id and the second hinge element (not shown), the characteristics of the first hinge element 41 la-41 Id described in the embodiments of Figs.4A-4D can be found also in the second hinge element.

[0125] In the embodiment of Fig.4D, the first hinge element 41 Id protrudes outwardly from the first side wall 410. More specifically, the first hinge element 41 Id extends outwardly from an edge of the first side wall 410. In the embodiment of Fig.4D, the outward protrusion of the first hinge element 41 Id defines a cavity 412d, 412d’ within which the complementary hinge element 42 Id is inserted.

[0126] In the embodiments of Figs.4A-4C, the first hinge element 41 la-411c protrudes inwardly from the first side wall 410. More specifically, the first hinge element 41 la-411c extends inwardly from an edge of the first side wall 410. In the embodiments of Figs.4A-4C, the inward protrusion of the first hinge element 41 la-411c defines a cavity 412a, 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’ within which the complementary hinge element 421a-421c is inserted.

[0127] To form the hinge between the lid 420 and the first side wall 410, a first contact surface 413a-413d of the first hinge element 41 la-41 Id and a second contact surface 422a-422d of the complementary hinge element 421a-421d cooperating with the first contact surface 413a-413d may have arcuate concentric profiles centered around a pivot axis of the formed hinge. The first contact surface 413a-413d of the first hinge element 41 la-41 Id may include an inner surface of the cavity 412a, 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’. The second contact surface 422a-422d of the complementary hinge element 42 la-42 Id may include an outer surface of the complementary hinge element 42 la-42 Id.

[0128] In the embodiments of Figs.4B-4D, the cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’ of the first hinge element 411b-411d may be defined as a double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’ as seen in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge. The double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’ may include a side opening 414b-414d facing the lid 420, and through which the complementary hinge element 421b-421d may extend to connect to the lid 420. The complementary hinge element 421b-421d may be configured for being provided partially within the double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’.

[0129] In the embodiment of Fig.4A, the cavity 412a of the first hinge element 411a may be defined as a single-lobe cavity 412a, i.e. a cylindrical cavity, as seen in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge. The single-lobe cavity 412a may include a side opening 414a facing the lid 420, and through which the complementary hinge element 421a may extend to connect to the lid 420. The complementary hinge element 421a may be configured for being provided partially within the single-lobe cavity 412a.

[0130] The single-lobe cavity 412a illustrated in Fig.4A includes only one inner surface which may be employed as contact surface to form the hinge in cooperation with a corresponding outer surface of the complementary hinge element 421a partially located within the single-lobe cavity 412a. More specifically, the first contact surface 413a of the first hinge element 411a may include a first inner surface 413a of a single lobe 412a of the single-lobe cavity which may be configured as contact surface to form the hinge.

[0131] The double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’ illustrated in Figs.4B-4D includes various inner surfaces which may be employed as contact surfaces to form the hinge in cooperation with corresponding various outer surfaces of the complementary hinge element 421b- 421d partially located within the double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’. More specifically, the first contact surface 413b-413d of the first hinge element 411b-411d may include a first inner surface 413b-413d of a first lobe 412b-412d of the double-lobe cavity and a second inner surface 413b’-413d’ of a second lobe 412b’-412d’ of the double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’, and both may be configured as contact surfaces to form the hinge. The first inner surface 413b-413d of the first lobe 412b-412d and the second inner surface 413b’-413d’ of the second lobe 412b ’-412d’ may be arranged oppositely of the double-lobe cavity 412b, 412b’, 412c, 412c’, 412d, 412d’ to ensure a secure mechanical operation of the hinge.

[0132] Preferably, each of the first lobe 412b-412d and the second lobe 412b’-412d’ is defined by a circle arc, both circle arcs being arcs of concentric circles whose common center corresponds to the pivot axis of the hinge. In the embodiments of Figs.4B-4D, a first diameter of the first lobe 412b-412d is smaller than a diameter of the second lobe 412b’-412d’.

[0133] In the embodiments of Figs.4B-4D, the first lobe 412b-412d and the second lobe 412b’- 412d’ are connected by a connecting segment 415b-415d. More particularly, in the embodiment of Fig.4B, the connecting segment 415b extends in a substantially straight manner between the first lobe 412b and the second lobe 412b’, at an inward angle from the edge of the first side wall 410. In the embodiment of Fig.4C, the connecting segment 415c extends in a substantially straight manner between the first lobe 412c and the second lobe 412c’, in alignment with the first side wall 410. In the embodiment of Fig.4D, the connecting segment 415d includes a right-angle portion to accommodate the difference in diameters between the first lobe 412d and the second lobe 412d’.

[0134] In the embodiment of Fig.4C, the complementary hinge element 421c may comprise a first arc-shaped portion 423c having a first outer surface 422c configured for cooperating with the first inner surface 413c of the double-lobe cavity 412c, 412c’ such as to allow a pivoting motion of the hinge. Preferably, in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge, a thickness of material making out the arc-shaped portion 423c is constant to further save material. In the embodiments of Figs.4A, 4B, and 4D, the complementary hinge element 421a, 421b, 421d may comprise a first cylindrical portion 423a, 423b, 423d having a first outer surface 422a, 422b, 422d configured for cooperating with the first inner surface 413a, 413b, 413d of the single-lobe cavity 412a or of the double-lobe cavity, 412b, 412b’; 412d, 412d’ such as to allow a pivoting motion of the hinge. The first inner surface 413a-413d and the first outer surface 422a-422d may be surface treated in order to facilitate, or on the contrary hinder, the pivoting motion of the hinge.

[0135] Further, in the embodiments of Figs.4B-4D, the complementary hinge element 421b-421d includes a second arc-shaped portion 425b-425d arranged within the second lobe 412b’-412d’ and having a second outer surface 424b-424d configured for cooperating with the second inner surface 413b’-413d’ of the second lobe 412b’-412d’. Similarly as for the first inner surface 413b-413d and the first outer surface 422b-422d, the second outer surface 424b-424d of the second arc-shaped portion and the second inner surface 413b’-413d’ of the double-lobe cavity may be surface treated in order to facilitate, or on the contrary hinder, the pivoting motion of the hinge. Based on the above, the skilled person will understand that arc-shaped portion and cylindrical portions may be used interchangeably in order to implement a satisfactory cooperating first and / or second outer surface of the complementary hinge element.

[0136] In the embodiments of Figs.4B-4D, the second arc-shaped portion 425b-425d then connects with the first edge of the lid 420. Further a linking portion 426b-426d connecting the first arc-shaped portion 423c or the first cylindrical portion 423b, 423d and the second arc-shaped portion 425b-425d. Depending on embodiments, the linking portion 426b, 426d may extend in a substantially straight manner, of the linking portion 426c may extend such that the first arc-shaped portion 423c, the linking portion 426c, and the second arc-shaped portion 425c form an S-shape. Additionally, the linking portion 426b-426d may be configured for abutting against an extremity of the protrusion forming the first hinge element 41 lb-41 Id such as to stop the opening of the lid 420 above a predetermined angle.

[0137] In the embodiment of Fig.4D, the complementary hinge element 42 Id may further comprise an extension portion 427d extending away from the lid 420, said extension portion 427d being configured for preventing the complementary hinge element 42 Id from going out of the first hinge element 41 Id through the side opening 414d. The extension portion 427d extends opposite the second arc-shaped portion 425d relative to the linking portion 426d. The extension portion 427d may be further configured for cooperating with the second inner surface 413d’ of the second lobe 412d’ and / or an inner surface of the connection portion 415d. By having this extension portion 427d, when the lid 420 is fully opened and as seen in the plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the hinge, there is no gap formed in the side opening 414d due to the extension portion 427d showing through it, thereby blocking the complementary hinge element 421d partially within the double-lobe cavity 412d, 412d’ and preventing its dislodging. Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An enclosure for one or more components, comprising: a channel-shaped profile (20) including a bottom wall (23), a first side wall (21), and a second side wall (22), said first and second side walls (21, 22) extending away from opposite sides of the bottom wall (23); a lid (10) configured for closing a space defined by the bottom wall (23) and the first and second side walls (21, 22); wherein the first side wall (21) comprises a first hinge element (210), and the second side wall (22) comprises a second hinge element (220), said first and second hinge elements (210, 220) being symmetrical; wherein the lid (10) has a first edge provided with a complementary hinge element(110), said complementary hinge element (110) configured for being provided to one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) and for cooperating with the one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) to form a hinge between the lid (10) and one of the first side wall (21) and the second side wall (22), respectively; a latching means (30) provided to a second edge of the lid (10) opposite the complementary hinge element (110), said latching means (30) configured for latching the lid (10) to the other one of the first side wall (21) and the second side wall (22).

2. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the latching means (30) is configured for abutting against an outer side of the other one of the first side wall (21) and the second side wall (22).

3. The enclosure of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second hinge elements (210, 220) protrude outwardly from the first and second side walls (21, 22), respectively, and the latching means (30) is configured for extending at least partly over the first hinge element (210) or the second hinge element (220).

4. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the channel-shaped profile (20) is manufactured by extrusion.

5. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the first and second hinge elements (210, 220) extend outwardly from an edge of the first and second side walls (21, 22), respectively.

6. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the complementary hinge element (110) is slidable relative to the one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) along an axis substantially parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge.

7. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the hinge formed by the complementary hinge element (110) cooperating with the one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) is configured for enabling the lid (10) to be opened at an angle up to 90°.

8. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the hinge is formed by the cooperation of an inner surface of the one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) with an outer surface of the complementary hinge element (110).

9. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-8, wherein each of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (210) defines a double-lobe cavity (212, 214; 222, 224) as seen in a plane perpendicular to a pivot axis of the hinge, said double-lobe cavity (212, 214; 222, 224) including a side opening (216) facing the lid (10); and wherein the complementary hinge element (210) is configured for being provided partially within the double-lobe cavity (212, 214; 222, 224).

10. The enclosure of claim 9, wherein the complementary hinge element (110) comprises an arc-shaped portion (112, 114) having an outer surface configured for cooperating with an inner surface of the double -lobe cavity (212, 214; 222, 224) such as to allow a pivoting motion of the hinge.

11. The enclosure of claim 9 or 10, wherein the complementary hinge element (110) further comprises an extension portion (116) extending away from the lid (10), said extension portion (116) configured for preventing the complementary hinge element (110) from going out of the one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220) through the side opening (216).

12. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-11, wherein a lip (120) extends away from the second edge of the lid, said lip (120) being configured for resting on the other one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220).

13. The enclosure of claim 12, wherein an inner surface of the lip (120) is configured for matching with an outer surface of the other one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220).

14. The enclosure of claim 12 or 13, wherein the lip (120) extending from the second edge of the lid has a first profile which is asymmetrical relative to a second profile of the complementary hinge element (110) provided to the first edge of the lid, such that the lip (120) is dedicated to the closure of the enclosure by the lid and the complementary hinge element (110) is dedicated to forming the hinge of the lid.

15. The enclosure of any one of claims 12-14, wherein the lip (120) comprises a latch mounting portion (125) configured for pivotally mounting the latching means (30) thereto.

16. The enclosure of claim 15, wherein the latching means (30) is slidable relative to the latch mounting portion (125) along an axis substantially parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge.

17. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the lid (10) comprises a first internal supporting element (103) and a second internal supporting element (103’) configured for resting on a first flange portion (203) of the first side wall (21) and a second flange portion (203’) of the second side wall (22), respectively.

18. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the latching means (30) comprises a locking element (310), said locking element (310) configured for, in a latched position of the latching means (30), locking the latching means (30) in position by compression against the other one of the first hinge element (210) and the second hinge element (220).

19. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the enclosure (1) further comprises an end cap (40) configured for being mounted to an end of the channel-shaped profile (20).

20. The enclosure of any one of claims 1-19, wherein a material of the enclosure (1) includes metal, preferably aluminum.

21. An electric box of a luminaire comprising: an enclosure according to any one of claims 1-20; a driver for the luminaire provided within the enclosure.

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