Light unit with connector for releasable connection with lamp base or shade

Abstract

The present invention relates to an interchangeable light unit (10) comprising at least one light source (11), at least one of a battery (12) or a power supply port (4), processing circuitry configured to control operation of the light source (11), and a connector (13) configured to releasably connect the light unit (10) with a lamp base (20) or a lamp shade (30) of a lamp (1). The present invention further relates to a lamp (1) comprising the interchangeable light unit (10), a lamp base (20), a lamp shade (30), and wherein the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) is provided with a connection portion (21) releasably connected to the connector (13) of the light unit (10).

Description

[0001] LIGHT UNIT WITH CONNECTOR FOR RELEASABLE CONNECTION WITH LAMP BASE OR SHADE

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The invention relates to an interchangeable light unit and a lamp comprising said light unit.

[0004] Background

[0005] Our homes are filled with a large number of home electronic equipment, such as lamps. Faulty electronic products can cause damages, such as fires or short circuits. Therefore, before launching new home electronic products, they need to be certified to meet certain criteria. However, to certify home electronic products is a costly and time consuming process.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to overcome these problems.

[0007] Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, the above and other objects of the invention are achieved, in full or at least in part, by an interchangeable light unit as defined by claim 1. According to this claim the above object is achieved by an interchangeable light unit comprising at least one light source, at least one of a battery or a power supply port, processing circuitry configured to control operation of the light source, and a connector configured to releasably connect the light unit with a lamp base or a lamp shade of a lamp.

[0009] This light unit is advantageous since it is modular, and hence may be used in different lamps. Therefore, the same interchangeable light unit can be reused together with various lamps without having to certify new light units for each lamp. Hence, the interchangeable light unit according to the present invention reduces costs and saves time.

[0010] In a first embodiment, the interchangeable light unit is provided with an on / off switch. According to a second embodiment, the interchangeable light unit is provided with a colour changing switch configured to change colour of the light emitted by the at least one light source. This provides a light unit which may contribute to different atmospheres in the room where the light unit is used. Is also provides a light unit giving an aesthetically attractive light, and a light unit which can be suitable for different purposes.

[0011] In one embodiment, the connector comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism or a first part of a bayonet mount, such that the light unit may be connected to the lamp base with a snap-fit mechanism, or a bayonet mount. This provides for an easy but yet secure attachment of the light unit to a lamp.

[0012] In one embodiment, the connector comprises a socket forming the first part of said snap-fit mechanism.

[0013] In another embodiment, the connector comprises a rim extending along a periphery of the light unit. The rim is configured to be connected to the lamp base or lamp shade by rotation in relation to the lamp base or the lamp shade such that the rim is engaged by a groove provided on the lamp base or the lamp shade. This also provides for an easy but yet secure attachment of the light unit to a lamp. Preferably, the rim extends laterally from the light unit.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the connector comprises a through hole configured to receive a fastening means such as a screw. This also provides for an easy but yet secure attachment of the light unit to a lamp.

[0015] In one embodiment, the connector comprises a rim, and wherein the rim is provided with a first part for a snap-fit mechanism and / or at least one through hole configured to receive a fastening means, such as a screw or the like. This makes the light unit modular such that it may be connected in several different ways to the lamp base or the lamp shade, and is therefore adaptable to many different lamp designs.

[0016] In another embodiment, the light unit has an upper portion and a bottom portion, and the at least one light source is directed upwards from the light unit. The light unit comprises a further light source directed downwards from the light unit, whereby the light unit is configured to emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit. This is advantageous in that the light unit may emit light both upwards and downwards. Further, the light unit having light sources directed upwards and downwards is that is becomes easy to use together with different types of lamps, requiring the light unit to emit light in different directions.

[0017] In another embodiment, the at least one light source is arranged inside the light unit and an upper portion covering and / or bottom portion covering of the light unit comprises an at least semi-transparent outer material, whereby the light unit is configured to emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit. This is advantageous in that the light unit may emit light both upwards and downwards. Further, the light unit having light sources directed upwards and downwards is that is becomes easy to use together with different types of lamps, requiring the light unit to emit light in different directions.

[0018] In one embodiment, the light unit comprises a light direction switch configured to cause control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source, such that the light can be directed upwards, downwards or both upwards and downwards. This is beneficial since it allows a user to select how the light should be emitted from a lamp comprising the light unit. In addition, the selected mode can be adopted to what type of atmosphere the user wishes to establish in a setting.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the light unit comprises a wireless receiver, and the light direction switch is configurable to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the light source by an app, a mobile phone, a could server, or a remote control via the wireless receiver. This is beneficial since the user can control the light unit remotely without having to access the light unit. This is specifically advantageous if the light unit is arranged in a lamp which is hard to reach.

[0020] In one embodiment, the light direction switch is a mechanical switch which can be operated manually to control the processing circuitry of the light unit to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source, or the light direction switch is a mechanical cover configured to either cover or not cover the at least one light source to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source, or wherein the light direction switch is a manually operable director configured to direct the at least one light source to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source. This allows the user to manually control the direction of the light from the light unit.

[0021] In another embodiment, the light unit has the shape of a disc, a cylinder, a sphere, a rectangular cuboid, a cube, or a cylinder having a conical or curved conical top surface.

[0022] In one embodiment, the light unit has an upper portion and a bottom portion, the bottom portion having a substantially flat outer shape and the upper portion having a non-flat outer shape.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the light unit comprises at least one solar cell. The solar cell may be a solar panel. A solar cell is advantageous in that the solar cell may be used to supply energy to the light source. Alternatively, the solar cell may be used to charge the batteries provided in the light unit. The provision of solar cells in the light unit makes the light unit sustainable and more environmentally friendly since it can be charged in day light and operated in dark by the solar power.

[0024] In one embodiment, the light unit comprises an at least semi-transparent material which allows emission of light from the at least one light source and allows at least one solar cell provided in the light unit to be exposed to and receive day light. This allows for a light unit which is aesthetically attractive, but which may still charge the solar cell and emit light from a light source arranged below the semi-transparent material.

[0025] In a second aspect, there is provided a lamp comprising the interchangeable light unit as described herein, a lamp base, and a lamp shade. The lamp base and / or the lamp shade is / are provided with a connection portion releasably connected to the connector of the light unit. This is advantageous in that the lamp need not be certified as a home electronic product in itself, since the light unit is certified. Hence, each lamp base and / or lamp shade only need to be equipped with the connection portion to allow connection with the light unit. Hence, the manufacturing and certification costs for the lamp may be decreased. In addition, new lamp designs may be launched and produced without having to spend time to certify each new design.

[0026] In one embodiment, the lamp base comprises an at least semi-transparent material such that the lamp base emits light when the light source of the light unit emits light into the lamp base. Hence, the lamp base may also be used as a source of light in a setting without being provided with an opening to emit light.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the lamp base has a shape having dimensions smaller than the lamp shade such that it may be inserted into the lamp shade during storage and / or transportation. Since the lamp base is fitted in the lamp shade, space that the disassembled lamp takes may be greatly reduced. Hence, storage space required is reduced, and transportation costs can also be lowered. In addition, the lamp base is protected during storage and / or transportation.

[0028] In another embodiment, the lamp base or the lamp shade has an opening having a shape corresponding to that of the light unit such that the light unit may be fitted in the opening. This is advantageous since the light unit may be snugly arranged in the lamp base during use of the lamp. This also provides a secure position of the light unit in the lamp base during use.

[0029] In another embodiment, the light unit has a colour changing switch configured to change colour of the at least one light source. The colour changing switch is positioned on the light unit such that the lamp shade hides the colour changing switch when the light unit is releasably connected to the lamp. This prevents unwanted users from changing the colour of the light. For instance, guests in a restaurant which do not know that the lamp shade hides a colour changing switch will not change the colour of the light and the restauranteur can select which colour of the light which should be displayed.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the lamp shade is attached to the lamp base using a bayonet mount, wherein the lamp base is provided with a first part of the bayonet mount and the lamp shade is provided with a second part of the bayonet mount.

[0031] Other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will appear from the following detailed disclosure, from the attached claims, as well as from the drawings. It is noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of features.

[0032] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to “a / an / the [element, device, component, means, step, etc.]” are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated.

[0033] As used herein, the term “comprising” and variations of this term are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

[0034] By way of example, embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure l is a table lamp comprising the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0036] Figure 2A is a ceiling lamp comprising the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 2B is a ceiling lamp comprising the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0038] Figure 3 is a standard lamp comprising the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0039] Figure 4 is a wall lamp comprising the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0040] Figure 5 shows a side view of the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figure 6 shows a bottom view of the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0042] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of an upper portion of the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0043] Figure 8 shows an exploded view of a bottom portion the light unit according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0044] Figures 9A-9C show details of the light unit according to different embodiments of the invention;

[0045] Figure 10A-10B show a light unit according to another embodiment of the invention; Figure 10C is an exploded view of a lamp comprising the light unit shown in Figs. 10A and 10B;

[0046] Figure 11 shows the lamp of Fig. 10C is an assembled state; and

[0047] Figure 12 shows details of the lamp according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0048] Detailed Description

[0049] The invention relates to an interchangeable light unit 10. In short, the interchangeable light unit 10 comprises at least one light source 11, a battery 12, processing circuitry configured to control operation of the light source 11, and a connector 13 used to connect the light unit to a lamp base or a lamp shade.

[0050] With reference to Figures 1-4, different lamps 1 comprising the interchangeable light unit 10 are shown. Each lamp 1 comprises a lamp base 20 and a lamp shade 30. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp 1. As shown in the enlarged version of the light unit 10 in Figs 1-4, each interchangeable light unit 10 comprises at least one light source 11, and the connector 13 used to connect the light unit 10 to either the lamp base 20 or the lamp shade 30. The interchangeable light unit 10 has an upper portion 2 and a bottom portion 3. In Figures 1-4, the upper portion 2 is displayed. The lower portion 3 is indicated with the dashed line.

[0051] Fig. 1 shows a free standing table lamp 1. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp base 20 of the lamp 1.

[0052] Fig. 2A shows a ceiling lamp 1. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp base 20 of the lamp 1.

[0053] Fig. 2B shows another ceiling lamp 1. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp shade 30 of the lamp 1.

[0054] Fig. 3 shows a standard lamp 1. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp base 20 of the lamp 1.

[0055] Fig. 4 shows a wall lamp 1. The interchangeable light unit 10 is connected to the lamp base 20 of the lamp 1.

[0056] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the interchangeable light unit 10. The upper portion 2 comprises the light source 11, and the bottom portion 3 comprises the further light source 11’. In other embodiments, each upper and bottom portions 2, 3 may be provided with yet further light sources. Each light source 11, 11’ is protected and covered by a light source cover I la, 1 l’a. In Fig. 5, the connector 13 in the form of a rim 16 is shown. The rim 16 extends laterally from the light unit 10.

[0057] Turning to Fig. 6, a bottom view of the light unit 10 is shown. The bottom portion 3 has a bottom portion covering 3a, which is provided with a bottom portion lid 5. The bottom portion lid 5 is removable and can be opened to expose the interior of the bottom portion 3, for instance if the battery 12 needs to be changed. The bottom portion

[0058] 3 has a further light source 11’, covered by the light source cover 1 l’a. Details of the bottom portion 3 will be described more with reference to Fig. 8 below.

[0059] Further, the light unit 10 in Fig. 6 comprises the connector 13. In this embodiment, the connector 13 comprises the rim 16. The rim 16 extends around a circumference of the light unit 10. In other embodiments, the rim 16 may extend only partly around the periphery of the light unit 10.

[0060] The rim 16 of the connector 13 in Fig. 6 is further provided with a first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a, and through holes 17. The first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a, and the through holes 17 are distributed along the rim 16. The through holes 17 and the first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a extends through the rim 16, in a vertical direction. The vertical direction is perpendicular to the lateral direction. Hence, in this embodiment, the connector 13 comprises a rim 16 provided with a first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a, and through holes 17. In such a way, the light unit 10 may be connected to the lamp base 20 or the lamp shade 30 in several different ways, making the interchangeable light unit 10 modular and adaptive. The connector 13 may also be a first part of a bayonet mount (not shown). The different connectors 13 in the form of a rim 16, through holes 17, and a first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a will be explained in more detail with reference to Figs. 9A-9C.

[0061] In addition, the interchangeable light unit 10 shown in Fig. 6 has an on / off selector 141, which in this embodiment is an on / off button 141. The on / off button 141 is arranged on a removable on / off switch lid 14. The interchangeable light unit 10 is further provided with a power supply port 4, in Fig. 6 being a power supply USB-C port

[0062] 4 protected by a removable USB-C port cover 4a configured to shield the USB-C port 4. Hence, the light unit 10 may be charged with a USB-C cable, or used having a USB-C cable connected to the power supply USB-C port 4. The light unit 10 may alternatively be provided with another type of port which may be connected to a charging cable, such as another type of USB port (USB- A, USB-B, USB 3.0, micro-USB or the like), or any other cable port suitable for supplying power to the light unit 10.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, the USB-C port cover 4a is partly removable to expose the USB-C port 4. For instance, the USB-C port cover 4a is foldable over the USB-C port 4.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, the light unit 10 may comprise a wireless charging receiver such that the light unit 10 may be charged wirelessly by a unit comprising a wireless charging transmitter.

[0065] Now turning to Fig. 7, an exploded view of the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10 is shown. The upper portion 2 has an upper portion covering 2a. The upper portion covering 2a is configured to be attached to a light unit middle portion 10a. The upper portion 2 is provided with the light source 11. The light source 11 faces the upper portion covering 2a of the light unit 10. The upper portion 2 further comprises the light source cover I la. Further, the upper portion 2 is equipped with at least one solar cell 19. The solar cell 19 in the embodiment of Fig. 7 is a solar panel. Hence, the light unit 10 comprises the upper portion 2, the middle portion 10a and the bottom portion 3. In the embodiment of the light unit 10 shown in Figures 1-9, the connector 13 is arranged on the middle portion 10a.

[0066] Further, the upper portion 2 comprises an optional light sensor 19a, preferably arranged internally inside the light unit 10, as shown in Fig. 7, and the upper portion covering 2a comprising or being made from an at least semi-transparent material allowing for light to penetrate the covering 2a and reach the light sensor 19a. The bottom portion 3 is also shown in Fig. 7. The processing circuitry of the light unit 10 may be configured to control operation of the light source 11 based on data from the light sensor 19a. The processing circuitry may be configured to control operation of the light source 11 such that the light source 11 is turned on when ambient light reaches a threshold level of darkness and turn the light source 11 off when ambient light reaches a threshold level of brightness. The light unit middle portion 10a shown in Fig. 7 is provided with engagement portions 10b configured to hold and secure the solar cell 19. In this embodiment, the engagement portions 10b are provided in the form of resilient protrusions, enabling a snap-fit connection between the solar cell 19 and the engagement portions 10b.

[0067] Fig. 8 shows an exploded view of mainly the bottom portion 3 of the light unit 10. The upper portion covering 2a and the light source cover 1 la are also shown in Fig. 8. As also shown in Fig. 7, the light unit 10 comprises the light unit middle portion 10a. The bottom portion 3 comprises the bottom portion covering 3a. As described above, the connector 13 comprises a rim 16 provided with through holes 17, and first parts of a snap-fit mechanism 13a. Further, the light unit 10 is equipped with the on / off switch lid 14 and the on / off button 141.

[0068] Alternatively, the on / off switch lid 14 and the on / off button 141 are provided on the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10, or both the upper and the bottom portions 2, 3 are each provided with an on / off button 141.

[0069] As shown in the exploded view in Fig. 8, the on / off switch lid 14 covers an on / off switch 14a arranged below the on / off switch lid 14 in the assembled state. When the user engages the on / off button 141, the on / off switch 14a is actuated. The on / off switch lid 14 is removable.

[0070] On an opposite side of on / off switch 14a shown in Fig. 8, the light unit 10 comprises the power supply USB-C port 4, and the bottom portion covering 3a comprises the removable USB-C port cover 4a.

[0071] Adjacent to the on / off switch 14a, a second USB-C port 14c is arranged, which is connected to the on / off switch 14a and provides the on / off switch 14a with a digital interface. Therefore, the on / off switch lid 14 may be removed, and optional separate adapters 14d, 14e may be connected to the second USB-C port 14c connected to and arranged adjacent to the on / off switch 14a.

[0072] The first adapter 14d is a smart home adapter, which comprises a wireless receiver such that the light unit 10 may be controlled by a remote control, a mobile phone, a could server, or a smart home app via the wireless receiver.

[0073] The second adapter 14e is provided with a light sensor 14e’ and an on / off selector 14e” on two opposite sides of the second adapter 14e, both shown in Fig. 8. The processing circuitry may be configured to control operation of the light source 11 based on data from the light sensor 14e’. The processing circuitry may be configured to control operation of the light source 11 such that the light source 11 is turned on when ambient light reaches a threshold level of darkness and turn the light source 11 off when ambient light reaches a threshold level of brightness. With the on / off selector 14e” the user can turn the light unit 10 on or off by actuating the selector 14e”.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively, the lamp 1 has an extended on / off switch adapter 14’ which may be connected to the second USB-C port 14c. The extended on / off switch adapter 14’ has an on / off button 141’, an extension cord 142’ and a base plate 14’3. The base plate 143’ has a shape corresponding to that of the on / off switch lid 14. The extended on / off switch adapter 14’ is provided with a USB-C stick (not shown) below the base plate 143’. The extension cord 142’ may have a variating length, depending on the design of the lamp 1. For instance, if the lamp 1 is a ceiling lamp 1 as shown in Fig. 2B, the length of the extension cord 142’ may be adapted to a height of the lamp shade 30 such that the user can easily reach the on / off button 141’ while the extended on / off switch adapter 14’ is hidden by the lamp shade 30. Alternatively, the extended on / off switch adapter 14’ is arranged such that the on / off button 141’ is visible but the extension cord 142’ is covered by the lamp base 20 or the lamp shade 30.

[0075] Further, the bottom portion covering 3a comprises the bottom portion lid 5. In the assembled state, the bottom portion lid 5 covers the batteries 12, the further light source 11’, and a light direction switch 18. The light unit 10 also comprises the light source cover 1 l’a, which in the assembled state covers the further light source 11’.

[0076] The light direction switch 18 is configured to cause control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source 11 and the further light source 11’, such that the light emitted from the light sources 11, 11’ can be directed upwards, downwards or both upwards and downwards. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, the light direction switch 18 is rotatable between different positions (not shown herein), with some positions controlling processing circuitry which control operation of the light sources 11, 11’, and one position allowing control of the direction of the light emitted from the light sources 11, 11’ by an app, a mobile phone, a cloud server, or a remote control via a wireless receiver comprised in the light unit 10. The light direction switch 18 may also control actuation of the light sensor 19a. However, the light direction switch 18 may be any type of switch allowing the switch to control the processing circuitry of the light unit 10 and / or allow the light unit 10 to be remotely controlled by for instance an app, a mobile phone, a cloud server, or a remote control.

[0077] Alternatively, the light direction switch is a mechanical switch which can be operated manually to control the processing circuitry of the light unit 10 to control the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’.

[0078] In a further embodiment, the light direction switch is a mechanical cover which can be manually moved to either cover, partly cover or not cover the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’ to control the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’.

[0079] In another embodiment, the light direction switch is a manually operable director which is connected to the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’ to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’.

[0080] Hence, the at least one light source is directed upwards from the light unit 10, and the further light source 11’ is directed in the opposite direction, downwards from the light unit 10. In such a way, the light unit 10 can emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit 10, depending on the mode used with the light direction switch 18. Preferably, in such case, the light sources 11, 11’ are protected by the light source covers I la, l l’a.

[0081] Alternatively, the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11 ’ is / are arranged inside the light unit 10 and the upper portion covering 2a and / or the bottom portion covering 3a of the light unit 10 comprises an at least semi-transparent material, whereby the light unit 10 may emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit 10.

[0082] In one embodiment, the upper portion covering 2a and / or the bottom portion covering 3a of the light unit 10 comprises an at least semi-transparent material. This allows emission of light from the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light source 11’. It also conceals components arranged within the light unit 10. Further, if the light unit 10 comprises a solar cell 19, this allows the solar cell 19 arranged inside the light unit 10 to be exposed to and receive day light. It also allows a potential internal light sensor 19a to operate.

[0083] In addition to the on / off switch 14a, the light unit 10 shown in Figures 1-9C may be provided with a colour changing switch configured to change colour of the light emitted by the at least one light source 11. The colour may be altered by the processing circuitry controlling the wavelengths emitted by the light source 11, 11’.

[0084] Now turning to Figs 9A-9C, the connection between different types of connectors 13 of the light unit 10 and a connection portion 21 of a lamp base 20 or a lamp shade 30 are shown. The lamp base 20 or the lamp shade 30 may be provided with one or several connection portions 21.

[0085] In Fig. 9A, the connector 13 is provided in the form of through holes 17. A fastening means in the form of a screw is indicated with dashed lines, and is as shown configured to connect the light unit 10 to the lamp base 20 or lamp shade 30. Alternatively or additionally, the through hole 17 may be threaded.

[0086] In Fig. 9B, the connector 13 is provided as the rim 16. The rim 16 is engaged by the connection portion 21 in the form of a groove arranged in the lamp base 20 or the lamp shade 30. The rim 16 is connected to the connection portion 21 by a rotary movement of the rim 16 in relation to the connection portion 21, inserting the rim 16 into the groove through rotation.

[0087] In Fig. 9C, the connector 13 is provided as a first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a. The first part of the snap-fit mechanism 13a is here an opening dimensioned to receive the connection portion 21 being a resilient hook like protrusion, which is forced into engagement with the opening and relaxed once an end of the protrusion is inserted in the opening 13 a.

[0088] Alternatively, the connector 13 may be provided as an at least partly circumferential rib or lath, and the connection portion 21 is provided as an at least partly circumferential socket, or vice versa, which may be snap-fitted with each other, as shown for the embodiment of the light unit 10 shown in Figs 10-11.

[0089] Figs. 10A -10C show the light unit 10 according to another embodiment of the invention. Similar to the light unit 10 according to the embodiments shown in Figs. 1- 9C, the interchangeable light unit 10 shown in Figs. 10A-C comprises at least one light source 11 (shown in Fig. IOC), a battery 12 (shown in Fig. IOC), and processing circuitry configured to control operation of the light source 11. The light unit 10 further comprises a connector 13 configured to releasably connect the light unit 10 with a lamp base 20 or a lamp shade 30 of a lamp 1.

[0090] Fig. 10A shows a bottom portion 3 of the interchangeable light unit 10. The bottom portion 3 comprises a bottom portion covering 3a. The bottom portion 3 has an on / off selector 141 connected to an on / off switch (not shown in Fig. 10A) and a power supply port 4, preferably a power supply USB-C port 4. The power supply USB-C port 4 may also be equipped with a USB-C port cover configured to shield the USB-C port 4. Hence, the light unit 10 may be charged with a USB-C cable, or used having a USB- C cable connected to the power supply USB-C port 4.

[0091] The light unit 10 shown in Fig. 10 A- 10C may alternatively be provided with another type of port which may be connected to a charging cable, such as another type of USB port (USB- A, USB-B, USB 3.0, micro-USB or the like), or any other cable suitable for supplying power to the light unit 10.

[0092] Further, the bottom portion covering 3a shown in Fig. 10A comprises a removable bottom portion lid 5. The lid 5 is removable to expose the batteries arranged inside the interchangeable light unit 10. An outer periphery of the light unit 10 is provided with the connector 13, here in the form of a socket forming a first part of a snap-fit mechanism. The connector 13 in the form of the socket may extend partly or entirely around the circumference of the light unit 10.

[0093] Alternatively, the connector 13 of the light unit 10 shown in Figures 10A-10C may comprise a first part of a bayonet mount, or a rim 16, a through hole 17, or a combination thereof, as described with reference to the light unit 10 shown in Figures 1- 9C.

[0094] Fig. 10B shows an upper portion 2 of the interchangeable light unit 10. The upper portion 2 comprises an upper portion covering 2a, having the shape of a curved cone with a rounded top. The curved cone acts as a light spreader, spreading light evenly from the light unit 10. The upper portion 2 further comprises a colour changing switch 15 configured to change colour of the light emitted by the at least one light source 11. The colour may be altered by the processing circuitry controlling the wavelengths emitted by the light source 11, 11’.

[0095] Fig. 10C shows an exploded view of a lamp 1 comprising the interchangeable light unit 10. The lamp 1 comprises the lamp base 20 and the lamp shade 30. The lamp base 20 is provided with two through openings 22, 23, one which is configured to allow insertion of a power supply USB-C cable to the power supply USB-C port 4, and the other one to allow access to the on / off selector 141. The lamp base 20 in Fig. 10C further comprises an opening 24 having a shape corresponding to or being slightly larger than the outer circumferential shape of the light unit 10, such that the light unit 10 may be fitted in the opening 24. The opening 24 has a width or radius slightly larger than a width or radius of the light unit 10.

[0096] When the light unit 10 is arranged in the opening 24 of the lamp base 20, the two through openings 22, 23 are aligned with the power supply port 4, and the on / off selector 141, respectively. The lamp base 20 shown in Fig. 10C further comprises connection portions 21 in the form of three resilient portions each having an internal lath configured to engage the socket 13 of the light unit 13 through a snap-fit mechanism. The snap-fit mechanism facilitates the alignment of the through openings 22, 23 and the power supply port 4 and on / off selector 141 of the light unit 10, since the light unit 10 may be rotated when snap fitted to the lamp base 20. The lamp base 20 may comprise at least one connection portion 21 with an internal latch or a plurality of connection portions 21.

[0097] The lamp base 20 further has an outer circumferential rib 25 configured to engage a lamp shade socket, to connect the lamp base 20 with the lamp shade 30 through a snap-fit mechanism. The lamp shade socket is preferably arranged on an inner side surface of the lamp shade 30, such that the lamp base 20 may invisibly be connected to the lamp shade 30, as shown in Fig. 11.

[0098] The interchangeable light unit 10 of Fig. 10C comprises the upper portion 2, the bottom portion 3 and a light unit middle portion 10a. When the colour changing switch 15 is arranged on the upper portion covering 2a as shown in Figs. 10B-C, the lamp shade 30 will hide the colour changing switch 15 when the light unit 10 is releasably connected to the lamp 1 in the assembled state of the lamp 1. The light unit 10 in Fig. 10C comprises the at least one light source 11, and two further light sources 11’. Batteries 12 are provided inside the light unit 10. Also this embodiment of the light unit 10 may be provided with a solar cell and / or a light sensor as described with reference to Figures 1-9C.

[0099] The at least one light source 11 and the further light sources 11’ are arranged inside the light unit 10. Therefore, the upper portion covering 2a and / or the bottom portion covering 3a comprises an at least semi-transparent outer material, whereby the light unit 10 can emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit 10.

[0100] Fig. 11 shows the lamp 1 shown in Fig. 10C in an assembled state. The lamp base 20 is connected to the lamp shade 30, and the user may reach the on / off selector 141 through the through opening 23 of the lamp base 20. The through opening 22 provides access for the USB-C cable to be connected to the power supply USB-C port (shown in Fig. 10C).

[0101] Preferably, the lamp base 20 shown in Figures 10C and 11 comprises an at least semi-transparent material such that the lamp base 20 may emit light when the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light sources 11’ of the light unit 10 is / are switched on. In such case, the bottom portion 3 of the light unit 10 also comprises an at least semi-transparent material allowing the light unit 10 to emit light downwards into the lamp base 20. The upper portion 2 may also comprise an at least semi-transparent material.

[0102] Further, the light unit 10 shown in Figs 10A-10C may comprise a light direction switch, such as described above with reference to Fig. 8, configured to cause control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source 11 and / or the further light sources 11’, such that the light can be directed upwards, downwards or both upwards and downwards from the light unit 10.

[0103] The lamp base 20 and lamp shade 30 shown in Figures 10C and 11 have dimensions adapted for each other. The lamp shade 30 may have an internal space being larger than the outer dimensions of the lamp base 20, such that the lamp base 20 may be fitted into the lamp shade 30. The lamp base 20 for instance has a height corresponding to or being smaller than a height of the lamp shade 30. A width of the upper part of the lamp base 20 is slightly more narrow than a bottom part of the lamp shade 30, such that the lamp shade 30 may be fitted over the lamp base 20 as shown in Fig. 11. A width of a foot of the lamp base 20 corresponds to or is more narrow than a width of the upper part of the lamp shade. In this way, the lamp base 20, when not connected to the lamp shade 30, may be turned up-side down, and may be inserted into the lamp shade 30 during storage and / or transportation. In this configuration, preferably, the light unit 10 is fitted in the lamp base 20.

[0104] The light unit 10 may be fitted in the lamp base 20. The upper portion 2 of the light unit 10, which has the upper portion covering 2a having the shape of a curved cone, fits into the opening 24 of the lamp base 20. The opening 24 has the shape of an inverted curved cone and may therefore snuggly house the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10. Hence, the lamp 1 of Fig. 11 may be easily transported and stored due to its reduced space requirements, while at the same time protecting the light unit 10.

[0105] In other words, the opening 24 of the lamp base 20 has an inner shape corresponding to that of the outer shape of at least the upper portion covering 2a of the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10. The bottom portion 3 of the light unit has a substantially flat outer shape and the upper portion 2 has a non-flat outer shape. The opening 24 of the lamp base 20 has an inner shape corresponding to the non-flat outer shape of the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10. Alternatively, the light unit 10 has the overall shape of a disc as shown in Fig. 5, which may then also fit into the opening 24 of the lamp base 20.

[0106] The socket provided as the connector 13 of the light unit 10 may be arranged at a height level of the light unit 10 making the socket able to engage with the connection portions 21 of the lamp base 20 also when the upper portion 2 of the light unit 10 is inserted into the opening 24.

[0107] Fig. 12 shows an alternative connection mechanism between the lamp base 20 and the lamp shade 30 of the lamp 1 shown in Fig. 11. Instead of the outer circumferential rib 25 as shown in Fig. 10C, the lamp base 20 in Fig. 12 is provided with a first part of a bayonet mount 26. The lamp shade 30 is provided with a second part of the bayonet mount 36. In this embodiment, the first part of the bayonet mount 26 is in the form of an opening arranged in an outer edge of the lamp base 20. The opening is formed as an L-shaped slot. The L-shaped slot has an insertion portion 26a and a locking portion 26b. The locking portion 26b may optionally be provided with a locking pin 27 as shown in Fig. 12. The second part of the bayonet mount 36 is a protrusion, extending from an inner surface of the lamp shade 30. Further, the protrusion is elongated and extends horizontally. The second part of the bayonet mount 36 may further be provided with a locking aperture 37, as shown in Fig. 12.

[0108] To attach the lamp shade 30 to the lamp base 20 using the bayonet mechanism shown in Fig. 12, the user aligns the second part of the bayonet mount 36 with the insertion portion 26a of the first part of the bayonet mount 26, as indicated with the dashed parallel arrows in Fig. 12. The insertion portion 26a has a width corresponding to or being wider than the horizontal extension of the second part of the bayonet mount 36. The second part of the bayonet mount 36 is inserted vertically into the insertion portion 26a, and is then moved horizontally into the locking portion 26b, indicated by the middle L-shaped dashed arrow in Fig. 12. The locking pin 27 connects with the locking aperture 37 through a snap-fit mechanism. The lamp 1 may comprise one or several bayonet mount mechanisms to connect the lamp shade 30 to the lamp base 20. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, three bayonet mount mechanisms are provided, the first and second part of the bayonet mount 26, 36 being arranged around the circumference of the lamp base 20, and the lamp shade 30, respectively.

[0109] Preferably, each one of the lamps 1 shown in Figs. 1-4 also comprises an opening having a shape corresponding to an outer circumferential shape and dimensions of the light unit 10 such that the light unit 10 may be fitted in the opening. Preferably, the opening of the lamp 1 has dimensions corresponding to or being slightly larger than the upper and bottom portion coverings 2a, 3 a, such that the connector 13 of the light unit 10 either rests on material surrounding the opening of the lamp 1 (shown in e.g. Figs. 1 and 4) or such that the connector 13 in the form of the rim 16 is engaged rotationally with the connection portion 21 of the lamp 1 as shown in Fig. 9B. When the rim 16 comprising the through holes 17 and / or the first part of a snap-fit mechanism 13a rests on the material surrounding the opening of the lamp 1, the light unit 10 may be connected to the lamp 1 using either a fastening means such as a screw (as shown in Fig. 9A) or with a snap-fit mechanism (as shown in Fig. 9C). In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the at least semi-transparent material may be a frosted material, an opalescent material, an undyed material with a matted surface or it may be a transparent material. The at least semi-transparent material is preferably a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic polymer. The plastic material may be a polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), a polyethylene (PE), polyoxymethylene (POM), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), poly ether sulfone (PES), or polylactic acid (PLA). The plastic material may be a recycled plastic material. The plastic material may be frosted, opalescent, or matted. Further, the plastic may be a white opalized plastic.

[0110] In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the light source 11, and / or the further light source 11’ of the light unit 10 may be LEDs. The light unit 10 comprises processing circuitry configured to control operation of the at least one light source 11, and / or the further light source I E.

[0111] In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the connector 13 is free from electrical connections. The connector 13 is a mechanical connector only, and does not form part in a structure serving to provide or transmit electricity to the light unit 10.

[0112] In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the light unit 10 may have the shape of a disc, a cylinder, a sphere, a rectangular cuboid, a cube, or a cylinder having a conical upper portion covering 2a or a curved conical upper portion covering 2a. The light unit 10 may further have the shape or a disc, a puck having a conical or curved conical upper portion covering 2a. Further, the bottom of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein is substantially flat.

[0113] In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the light unit 10 may further comprise a dimmer, connected to the process circuitry of the light unit 10, such that the intensity of the light source 11, 11’ may be controlled.

[0114] In the various embodiments of the interchangeable light unit 10 disclosed herein, the light unit 10 may comprise at least one battery 12 and a power supply port 4, or a power supply port 4 and no batteries, or at least one battery 12 and no power supply port 4. The invention has been described above in detail with reference to embodiments thereof. However, as is readily understood by those skilled in the art, other embodiments are equally possible within the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An interchangeable light unit (10) comprising at least one light source (11), at least one of a battery (12) or a power supply port (4), processing circuitry configured to control operation of the light source (11), and a connector (13) configured to releasably connect the light unit (10) with a lamp base (20) or a lamp shade (30) of a lamp (1).

2. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to claim 1, wherein the light unit (10) is provided with an on / off switch (14a).

3. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light unit (10) is provided with a colour changing switch (15) configured to change colour of the light emitted by the at least one light source (11).

4. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connector (13) comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism (13a), such that the light unit (10) may be connected to the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) with a snap-fit mechanism.

5. The interchangeable light unit according to claim 4, wherein the connector (13) comprises a socket forming the first part of said snap-fit mechanism (13a).

6. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (13) comprises a first part of a bayonet mount, such that the light unit (10) may be connected to the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) with a bayonet mount.

7. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) has an upper portion (2) and a bottomportion (3), and wherein the at least one light source (11) is directed upwards from the light unit (10), and wherein the light unit (10) comprises a further light source (11’) directed downwards from the light unit (10), whereby the light unit (10) is configured to emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit (10).

8. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one light source (11) is arranged inside the light unit (10) and wherein an upper portion covering (2a) and / or a bottom portion covering (3a) of the light unit (10) comprises an at least semi-transparent outer material, whereby the light unit (10) is configured to emit light upwards and / or downwards from the light unit (10).

9. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) has the shape of a disc, a cylinder, a sphere, a rectangular cuboid, a cube, or a cylinder having a conical or curved conical top surface.

10. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) has an upper portion (2) and a bottom portion (3), the bottom portion (3) having a substantially flat outer shape and the upper portion (2) having a non-flat outer shape.

11. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) comprises at least one solar cell (19).

12. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) comprises an at least semi-transparent material which allows emission of light from the at least one light source (11), andallows at least one solar cell (19) provided in the light unit (10) to be exposed to and receive day light.

13. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one the preceding claims, wherein the connector (13) comprises a rim (16) extending along a periphery of the light unit (10), said rim (16) being configured to be connected to the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) by rotation in relation to the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) such that the rim (16) is engaged by a groove provided on the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30), or wherein the connector (13) comprises a through hole (17) configured to receive a fastening means such as a screw.

14. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light unit (10) comprises a light direction switch (18) configured to cause control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source (11), such that the light can be directed upwards, downwards or both upwards and downwards.

15. The interchangeable light unit (10) according to claim 14, wherein the light direction switch (18) is a mechanical switch which can be operated manually to control the processing circuitry of the light unit (10) to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source (11), or wherein the light direction switch (18) is a mechanical cover configured to either cover or not cover the at least one light source (11) to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source (11), or wherein the light direction switch (18) is a manually operable director configured to direct the at least one light source (11) to allow control of the direction of the light emitted from the at least one light source (11).

16. A lamp (1) comprising:- the interchangeable light unit (10) according to any one of claims1-15;- a lamp base (20); and- a lamp shade (30); and wherein the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) is provided with a connection portion (21) releasably connected to the connector (13) of the light unit (10).

17. The lamp (1) according to claim 16, wherein the lamp base (20) comprises an at least semi-transparent material such that the lamp base (20) emits light when the light source (11) of the light unit (10) emits light into the lamp base (20).

18. The lamp (1) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the lamp base (20) has a shape having dimensions smaller than the lamp shade (30) such that it may be inserted into the lamp shade (30) during storage and / or transportation.

19. The lamp (1) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the lamp base (20) or the lamp shade (30) has an opening (24) having a shape corresponding to that of the light unit (10) such that the light unit (10) may be fitted in the opening (24).

20. The lamp (1) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the light unit (10) has a colour changing switch (15) configured to change colour of the at least one light source (11), said colour changing switch (15) being positioned on the light unit (10) such that the lamp shade (30) hides the colour changing switch (15) when the light unit (10) is releasably connected to the lamp (1).

21. The lamp (1) according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the lamp shade (30) is attached to the lamp base (20) using a bayonet mount, wherein the lamp base (20) is provided with a first part of the bayonet mount (26) and the lamp shade (30) is provided with a second part of the bayonet mount (36).

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