Modular lighting device

Abstract

A modular lighting device (1) that includes a hollow cylindrical fixture (2) adapted to be mounted in a recess of a ceiling or a wall, and a plurality of interchangeable inserts (3) to be inserted in the fixture (2) and secured via a push-and-twist motion using a quick coupling mechanism (4) and a resilient element (5) arranged in the fixture (2) and to resiliently engage with the insert (3). The quick coupling mechanism (4) comprises first members (41) extending inwardly from the side wall (22) of the fixture (2), and second members (42)extending from the base (30) of the insert (3) to releasably engage with the first members (41)upon a push and a twist of the insert (3) in the fixture (2).

Description

[0001] MODULAR LIGHTING DEVICE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to light fixtures for walls and ceilings, and more particularly to a modular lighting device with a recessed fixture and interchangeable light inserts allowing to swap between lighting applications such as downlights, pendant holders, and spotlights, efficiently.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Lighting plays a pivotal role in both the functionality and aesthetics of residential and commercial spaces. Traditionally, lighting fixtures such as pendants and downlights are designed for a specific application and location. Once installed, these fixtures offer little to no flexibility for modification or adaptation to different lighting needs or design preferences. This lack of versatility can be inconvenient and costly for end users, who may desire to update the lighting for aesthetic changes, new functional requirements, or to incorporate emerging lighting technologies.

[0006] Modular lighting systems have been introduced to address some of these challenges. However, existing modular systems often require installation at an early stage of construction or significant renovation, prior to the completion of ceilings. This not only limits their applicability in finished spaces but also necessitates a lengthy and complex installation process. Such installations can span several days and often demand the additional labor of carpenters and painters to rectify the invasive installation impacts, thereby increasing the total cost and inconvenience.

[0007] DE29918913U1 describes a system for recessed ceiling lightnings, in particular a light fixture design that is intended to be used in train compartments. The design aims to prevent damage from vandalism and theft, while also allowing for easy replacement of light bulbs when needed. The unique feature of the design is that it allows for a smaller overall diameter of the light fixture, making it more space-efficient, however it is not intended to be a modular solution with various inserts serving different purposes.

[0008] US2014140075A1 describes a downlight support to enable installation of a downlight luminaire within a fixture. The support includes a tubular band that has a first section, having a first diameter, and a second section, having a second diameter. A plurality of leaf springs are positioned on the second diameter. Each leaf spring in the plurality of leaf springs extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. A plurality of pairs of tension spring receptors is arrayed about the first diameter. Each pair of tension spring receptors extends inwardly toward the longitudinal axis.

[0009] US2023003374A1 describes an integrated-lighting-module having a driver cap, a heat sink module, a LED light chip, an optical reflector, and a holder / trim. The driver cap is configured to hold a driver within the driver cap to power the LED light chip. The driver cap can attach to a top of the heat sink module. The holder can attach to the heat sink module with the optical reflector and the LED light chip disposed between elements of the holder and elements of the heat sink module. Trim, such as MR16 sized trim, a lamp, and / or a lens holder, may attach to bottom flanges of the holder.

[0010] These systems however do not allow for easy interchangeability of various insert modules by the end user and are not designed to protect additional elements of the fixture, such as electrical wirings from being entangled or damaged by repeated insertion and removal of inserts. The complexity of the exchange process, which often requires specialized tools or professional assistance, as well as the damaging of fixture elements over time diminishes the practicality of the modular concept.

[0011] Consequently, there is an existing need for a modular lighting solution that overcomes these deficiencies in the current market offerings, a solution that allows end users to easily interchange various types of lighting inserts, ranging from downlights to pendant holders, without the need to replace the entire fixture, and which can be installed swiftly in a finished environment, such as an existing ceiling or wall, without the need for extensive structural modifications or professional intervention after initial setup. There is further an existing need for a modular lighting solution that offers long-term usage of a fixture with various inserts without damaging or losing usability of the fixture in long term.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a modular lighting system that overcomes or at least reduces the problems of the prior art described above. The proposed solution addresses the noted shortcomings of existing systems by using an innovative modular design with a push-and-twist mechanism that reduces installation time, eliminates the need for additional finishing work post-installation, and grants the end user the autonomy to modify their lighting environment with minimal effort and expense. The foregoing and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementation forms are apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0014] According to a first aspect, there is provided a modular lighting device including a hollow cylindrical fixture comprising a fixture base and a lateral side wall defining a fixture inner diameter, adapted to be mounted in a recess of a ceiling or a wall, and at least one interchangeable insert comprising a circular insert base and a cylindrical outer boundary defined by an insert outer diameter which is dimensioned to substantially correspond to the fixture inner diameter, so that the insert can to be removably inserted in the fixture and to be rotated with respect to the fixture when inserted. The device further includes a quick coupling mechanism for securing the insert in the fixture via a push-and-twist motion, and a resilient element configured to be arranged in the fixture and to resiliently engage with the insert. The quick coupling mechanism comprises at least one first member arranged in the hollow cylindrical fixture, and at least one corresponding second member arranged in the insert and configured to releasably engage with the first member.

[0015] The first members are arranged extending inwardly from the lateral side wall of the hollow cylindrical fixture; and the second members are arranged extending axially from the insert base such that they do not extend radially beyond the cylindrical outer boundary, to ensure easy insertion, rotation, and removal of the inserts to and from the fixture, and to avoid any damaging of the fixture parts by the inserts when pushed in and rotated.

[0016] By providing such interchangeable inserts that can be replaced to change between different types of electrical applications using an innovative push-and- twist quick coupling mechanism, the system offers modularity allowing the end user to swap between electrical applications such as downlights, pendant holders, and spotlights efficiently. Such a system not only enhances the user experience by offering simplicity and ease of use but also promotes flexibility and customization in lighting design, while ensuring long term usage and avoiding the need to replace the fixture even when used for longer periods

[0017] In a possible embodiment the fixture comprises hooks for securing within a wall or ceiling structure.

[0018] In a possible embodiment the resilient element comprises a spring configured to provide resistance during insertion and removal of the interchangeable insert. In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the first member comprises a groove arranged to releasably engage with a correspondingly shaped portion of a second member, such as a hook-shaped portion, of an insert when the insert may be inserted in the fixture.

[0019] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the second member includes an L-shaped finger with an ending shaped to lock into a groove of the fixture, such as a hook-shaped portion. In an embodiment a hook-shaped portion of an L-shaped finger of the insert is designed for locking in a groove of the fixture upon a push and a clockwise rotation of the insert and releasing from the groove upon a push and a counter-clockwise rotation of the insert with respect to the fixture. In another possible embodiment, a hook-shaped portion of an L-shaped finger of the insert is designed for locking in a groove of the fixture upon a push and a counter-clockwise rotation of the insert and releasing from the groove upon a push and a clockwise rotation of the insert with respect to the fixture.

[0020] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one second member is arranged to slidably engage with an engagement surface of the resilient element. In an embodiment the insert includes a plurality of elongated fingers shaped to engage the engagement surface of the resilient element.

[0021] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the resilient element is configured to allow the engagement surface to be resiliently pushed in by the second member and to exert a force on the second member when not being pushed so as to releasably engage the second member and the first member, such as by locking the end of each second member in a corresponding groove of the fixture.

[0022] In a possible embodiment the fixture comprises a plurality of radially regularly spaced first members extending inwardly from the lateral side wall with gaps arranged between the first members, and each insert comprises a corresponding plurality of second members extending axially from the insert base and arranged to fit into the gaps between the first members when the insert is inserted into the fixture.

[0023] In a possible embodiment the insert comprises 3 radially spaced fingers extending from the periphery of the circular base at regular intervals.

[0024] In a possible embodiment each first member comprises an L-shaped portion according to a first orientation and each second member comprises a correspondingly L-shaped portion arranged rotated 180 degrees with respect to the first orientation, the L-shaped portions arranged to releasably engage with each other upon a push-and-twist motion of the insert with respect to the fixture.

[0025] In a possible embodiment the resilient element is a removable element arranged to be inserted in the hollow fixture before the interchangeable insert.

[0026] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the resilient element includes at least one stop element to limit the extent to which the insert can be pushed into the fixture.

[0027] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fixture comprises a plurality of radially regularly spaced first members extending inwardly from the lateral side wall, and the device comprises a plurality of resilient elements each arranged in a gap between adjacent first members, each resilient element comprising an engagement surface arranged to be resiliently pushed in by a second member during insertion of an insert in the fixture.

[0028] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one interchangeable insert includes a frame for receiving removable functional elements, such as a light source, the frame including fastening means for releasably securing the functional elements.

[0029] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastening means may be part of second members arranged on the insert and configured to releasably engage with corresponding first members of the fixture when the insert may be inserted in the fixture.

[0030] In a possible embodiment the light source is a light engine such as a GU10 type light engine, wherein the frame may be arranged with a fastening system corresponding to the light engine type.

[0031] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the insert includes a magnetic base element, such as a ferromagnetic metal plate, for attachment of a magnetic add-on member via magnets arranged on the magnetic add-on member.

[0032] In an embodiment the modular insert is an empty shell, and the magnetic addon member is a functional add-on element, comprising a functional element such as a light engine as described before.

[0033] In another embodiment the modular insert already includes a functional element (either fixed or removable), such as a light engine as described before, and the magnetic add-on member is an optical element for changing optical properties of the emitted light from the insert, such as a diffusing or focusing lens, or a color filtering layer.

[0034] In some embodiments the magnetic add-on member is available in multiple colors and materials for aesthetic customization.

[0035] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one interchangeable insert includes a frame with an integrated functional element such as a fixed light source, a wired connection for pendant light source, a motion sensor, a security camera, smoke alarm, screw insert, or an electric outlet.

[0036] In different embodiments the fixed light source is arranged as a downlight, a spotlight, or a halfway spotlight.

[0037] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one interchangeable insert is a blind ending with a cover element configured to close an opening of the hollow cylindrical fixture and second members such as fingers extending from the cover element for releasably engaging with corresponding first members of the fixture.

[0038] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fixture includes an electrical quick connector for connecting to electrical means for powering the interchangeable insert. Such a quick connector mechanism further facilitates a safe electrical connection through a quick connector when swapping between light inserts.

[0039] These and other aspects will be apparent from the examples and embodiments described below.

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the aspects, embodiments, and possible implementations will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:

[0042] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a side view of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a sectional side view illustrating insertion of an insert into a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 5A illustrates steps of a push-and-twist mechanism for securing an insert in a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 5B illustrates steps of a push-and-twist mechanism for removing an insert from a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 6A-6C a cut-away 3D illustration of the steps of a push-and-twist mechanism for securing an insert in a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 7A shows a cut-away 3D view of a fixture and a resilient element of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 7B shows a cut-away 3D view of a modular lighting device before insertion of an insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 7C shows a cut-away 3D view of a modular lighting device after insertion of an insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 8A shows a blind ending insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 8B shows a pendant insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 8C shows a halfway spotlight insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 8D shows a spotlight insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 8E shows a magnetic insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 8F shows a downlight insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 9 shows an isometric down view of a magnetic insert with various magnetic add-on members according to an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates the effect of using different magnetic add-on members in combination with a magnetic insert according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 11 A and 11 B show isometric views of two steps of inserting an insert into a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 12A and 12B show side views of two steps of inserting an insert into a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 13A shows a sectional side view of a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 13B shows an isometric cut-away view of a fixture of a modular lighting device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0062] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] FIG. 1 shows a modular lighting device 1 according to the disclosure. The modular lighting device 1 includes a hollow cylindrical fixture 2 adapted to be mounted in a recess of a ceiling or a wall. The fixture 2 may comprise fixing means such as hooks 21 as shown in FIG. 2 adapted for securely mounting within a recess prepared for receiving the fixture 2. The hollow cylindrical fixture 2 comprises a fixture base 20 and a lateral side wall 22 defining a fixture inner diameter 26.

[0064] Further included in the device 1 are a variety of modular, interchangeable inserts 3 adapted to be inserted in the hollow body of the fixture 2 (as shown by the arrows) and designed to be rotated with respect to the fixture 2 when inserted. Each interchangeable insert 3 comprises a circular insert base 30 and a cylindrical outer boundary defined by an insert outer diameter 38 dimensioned to substantially correspond to the fixture inner diameter 26, as shown in FIG.1 .

[0065] A quick coupling mechanism 4 is provided for securing the insert 3 in the fixture 2 via a push-and-twist motion as illustrated in more detail in FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 6A through 6C. The quick coupling mechanism 4 comprises at least one first member 41 arranged in the fixture 2 and at least one corresponding second member 42 arranged in the insert 3 and configured to releasably engage with the first member 41 when the insert 3 is inserted in the fixture 2.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the first members 41 are arranged extending inwardly from the lateral side wall 22 of the hollow cylindrical fixture 2 and further comprise grooves 23, and the second members 42 comprise L-shaped fingers 31 extending from a base 30 of the insert 3. The second members 42, in this case the fingers 31 are arranged extending axially from the insert base 30 such that they do not extend radially beyond the cylindrical outer boundary defined by the insert outer diameter 38.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiments the insert 3 comprises three fingers 31 extending from the periphery of the circular base 30 at regular intervals, however different variations with various numbers of fingers 31 are also possible and included in the scope of the disclosure. The fingers 31 are provided at their ends with hook-shaped portions 39 in a manner to easily lock into the grooves 23 of the first members 41 upon a push and a twist in a first direction of the insert 3 as illustrated in FIG. 5A, and to release from the groove 23 upon a push and a twist in an opposite second direction of the insert 3 with respect to the fixture 2, as illustrated in FIG. 5B.

[0068] In combination with this quick coupling mechanism 4, the device 1 is further provided with a resilient element 5 arranged in the fixture 2 to resiliently engage with the insert 3, as illustrated in more detail in FIG. 6A-6C, FIG. 7A, and FIG. 7B. The elongated fingers 31 of the insert 3 are arranged to slidably engage with an engagement surface 52 of the resilient element 5, whereby the resilient element 5 is configured to allow the engagement surface 52 to be resiliently pushed in by the fingers 31 and, in exchange, to exert a force on the fingers 31 when not being pushed so as to lock the end of each finger 31 in its corresponding groove 23 on each first member 41 of the fixture 2.

[0069] The interchangeable insert 3 may comprise a frame 32 for receiving removable functional elements 33 such as a removable light source, or it may comprise a frame 32 with an integrated functional element 36 such as a fixed light source. These embodiments are shown in more detail in FIG. 8A through FIG. 8F.

[0070] The fixture 2 further comprises an electrical connector 24 for connecting to electrical means 25 for powering the interchangeable insert 3.

[0071] FIG. 2 is a further illustration of the fixture 2 according to an embodiment. In this and the following embodiments, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. As shown in this figure, hooks 21 can extend horizontally from the side wall 22 of the fixture 2 for securing the fixture 2 in a wall or ceiling. The hooks 21 can be arranged to align with the side wall 22 of the fixture 2 upon initial insertion into a wall or ceiling recess, and to fold out, as shown in FIG. 2, upon tightening screws from the bottom, from a direction shown in FIG. 1 (arrow with number 21 ).

[0072] FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment where a quick connector 24 is provided in the fixture 2 for easily connecting the insert 3, in this case a spotlight insert 3, to the electrical means 25 before pushing and twisting the insert 3 in place in the fixture 2. Such a quick connector mechanism further facilitates a safe electrical connection when swapping between different light inserts 3. In possible embodiments, the fixture 2 can be arranged with multiple built-in quick connectors 24 for connecting various further cables, such as light intensity control means for dimmable lights.

[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates a first step of the push-and-twist mechanism as mentioned before, for securing the modular inserts 3 in the fixture 2. In this first step, the modular insert 3 is aligned with the axis of the cylindrical fixture 2 and is slowly inserted in its hollow body from below (or in the case of a vertical wall installation, from the side). In this case, the resilient element 5 is either integrated in the fixture 2 or is arranged in the fixture 2 before insertion of the modular insert 3, with its engagement surface 52 facing towards the opening of the fixture 2. As shown in the figure, for insertion, the fingers 31 of the insert 3 are aligned with corresponding gaps between first members 41 of the fixture 2, for ensuring the quick coupling mechanism 4 works as intended. To avoid any possibility of human error, the fixture 2 and the inserts 3 may be shaped in a way that ensures a correct alignment. A skilled person in the field would be familiar with such methods.

[0074] FIG. 5A illustrates the subsequent steps of insertion of the modular insert 3 in the fixture 2. In a second step, the insert 3 is pushed until the ends of the fingers 31 each engage with the engagement surface 52 of the resilient element 5 and the engagement surface 52 is pushed further in towards the base 20 of the fixture 2. This allows, in a third step, that the insert 3 can be twisted (either clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the design) so that the hook-shaped portion 39 of each finger 31 aligns with a corresponding groove 23 of a first member 41. In a final step, the pushing force is released and the resilient element 5 forces the fingers 31 outwards to lock in with the grooves 23. FIG. 5B illustrates the steps of removing the modular insert 3 from the fixture 2, which is essentially the opposite sequence of the steps described with respect to FIG. 5. In a first step, the base 30 of the insert 3 is pushed in so that the hook-shaped portion 39 of each finger 31 is removed from the corresponding groove 23. This allows, in a second step, that the insert 3 can be twisted (either clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the design) so that each finger 31 is now free to move in parallel to the axis of the fixture 2. This allows in turn that, in a third step, with the help of the resilient element 5 the modular insert 3 is pushed out from the hollow body of the fixture 2 and can easily be swapped for another modular insert 3.

[0075] FIG. 6A through 6C illustrate the same steps as shown in FIG. 5A from a different angle. In the illustrated embodiments of FIG. 5A, 5B, and FIGS. 6A through 6C, the fixture 2 comprises a plurality of radially regularly spaced first members 41 extending inwardly from the lateral side wall 22, and a plurality of resilient elements 5 are arranged removably in the gaps between adjacent first members 41 , each resilient element 5 comprising an engagement surface 52 arranged to be resiliently pushed in by a second member 42 during insertion of an insert 3 in the fixture 2. As also illustrated, the resilient elements 5 can further comprise a spring housing 54 with at least one spring 51 arranged inside in a manner that the spring housing 54 provides protection as well as a guiding surface for the springs 51. As illustrated, during compression of the resilient elements 5, the engagement surfaces 52 are pushed by the first members 41 of the insert 3 into the spring housing 54.

[0076] As further shown in the illustrated embodiments of FIG. 4, 5A, 5B, and FIGS. 6A through 6C, each first member 41 may comprise an L-shaped portion according to a first orientation and each second member 42 may comprise a correspondingly L-shaped portion arranged rotated 180 degrees with respect to the first orientation, the L-shaped portions arranged to releasably engage with each other upon a push-and-twist motion of the insert 3 with respect to the fixture 2.

[0077] FIG. 7A illustrates a possible embodiment where the resilient element 5 is a removable element arranged to be inserted in the fixture 2 before the interchangeable insert 3. In this embodiment, as well as other embodiments where the resilient element 5 is integrated in the fixture 2, the resilient element 5 may comprise a spring 51 configured to provide resistance during insertion and removal of the interchangeable insert 3. As further illustrated in the figure, the resilient element 5 may also comprises stop elements 53 to limit the extent to which the insert 3 can be pushed into the fixture 2, which ensures a smooth insertion and removal.

[0078] FIG. 7B illustrates the same embodiment, with the removable resilient element 5 already inserted and the springs 51 engaging the base of the fixture 2. As explained before, the modular insert 3 can then be inserted, provided with fingers 31 engage the engagement surface 52 of the removable resilient element 5 and lock in with the grooves 23 of the fixture 2.

[0079] FIG. 7C illustrates the final step, with both the resilient element 5 and the modular insert 3 placed in the fixture 2. The modular insert 3 is inserted via the opening of the hollow fixture 2 so that the fingers 31 engage and can slide on the engagement surface 52 of the removable resilient element 5. Upon pushing the modular insert 3 further into the fixture 2, the engagement surface 52 gets pushed in until the stop elements 53 engage the base of the fixture 2. The subsequent steps then follow the scenario as described before with respect to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, by rotating the insert 3 in the fixture 2 and locking in position.

[0080] FIG. 8A through FIG. 8F illustrate various possible embodiments for modular inserts 3.

[0081] FIG. 8A shows an embodiment where a modular insert 3 is a blind ending with a cover element 37 designed to close an opening of the hollow cylindrical fixture 2. In this embodiment the elongated fingers 31 extend from the cover element 37 for releasably engaging with corresponding first members 41 of the fixture, and grooves 23 thereof as shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 6.

[0082] FIG. 8B through FIG. 8D show further possible embodiments where a modular insert 3 comprises a frame 32 with an integrated functional element 36.

[0083] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, the integrated functional element 36 is integrated with a cover element 37 as described before, comprising one or more wired connections for hanging various pendant lights.

[0084] In various embodiments, the cover element 37 may also be arranged as a magnetic plate providing attachment surface for various shells in different colors and materials, corresponding to the wall or ceiling where the modular lighting device 1 is installed.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8C, the integrated functional element 36 is a halfway spotlight where the direction of the emitted light can be adjusted by rotating and tilting the halfway spotlight to a degree in the frame 32, but the light body is still partially hidden in the recess.

[0086] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8D, the integrated functional element 36 is a spotlight, as illustrated in FIG. 3 in more detail. In this embodiment, the direction of the emitted light can be fully adjusted by rotating and tilting the spotlight in the frame 32, but in exchange the light body is completely exposed.

[0087] In both the above embodiments shown in FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D, the light source can also be a changeable light engine, such as a GU10 light bulb.

[0088] FIG. 8E and FIG. 8F show further possible embodiments where a modular insert 3 comprises a frame 32 with fastening means 34 for receiving and releasably securing removable functional elements 33, such as a light source. In both these embodiments, the fastening means 34 can be integral part of second members 42 configured to releasably engage with corresponding first members 41 of the fixture 2 when the insert 3 is inserted in the fixture 2. In the illustrated examples, this can be achieved by a design where instead of L- shaped fingers 31 , the second members 42 are shaped as an arch with two legs extending in parallel from a base ring of the frame 32, and a flat cross member connecting the legs. Hook-shaped portions 39 for engaging with corresponding grooves 23 of the fixture 2 are extending from one side of the arch, while the fastening means 34 are flexible flaps extending downwards from the cross member between the legs, for releasably engaging with corresponding members of the removable functional elements 33.

[0089] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8E the modular insert 3 is a magnetic insert 3 providing a snap-on attachment of magnetic add-on members 6 via magnets 63. This embodiment is further described in detail below and shown in FIG. 9.

[0090] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8F the modular insert 3 is designed to receive removable functional elements 33 designed as a downlight. For example, this could be a removable light source such as a GU10 light bulb, wherein the frame 32 is arranged with a GU10 click-in fastening system.

[0091] It is understood that the above embodiments are only a few examples of the possible types of inserts 3 that this modular system enables. Other functional elements can further be arranged as modular inserts 3 for the modular device 1 according to the disclosure, such as a motion sensor, a security camera, a smoke alarm, a screw insert, or a standard 230V electric outlet. FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment where the modular insert 3 is a magnetic insert 3 with a frame 32 that comprises a magnetic element 35, such as a ferromagnetic metal plate, for snap-on attachment of a magnetic add-on member 6 via magnets 63 arranged on the magnetic add-on member 6. As illustrated in the figure, this provides possibilities for different embodiments. The magnetic add-on member 6 can be, for example, a functional add-on element 61 comprising a functional element such as a light engine as described before, in which case the modular insert 3 is an empty shell. In another possible embodiment the modular insert 3 already includes a functional element (either fixed or removable) such as a light engine as described before, and the magnetic add-on member 6 is an optical add-on element 62 for changing optical properties of the emitted light such as a diffusing or focusing lens, or a color filtering layer. In some embodiments the magnetic add-on member 6 may also be available in multiple colors and materials for aesthetic customization.

[0092] FIG. 10 illustrates the effect of using different magnetic add-on members 6 in combination with a magnetic insert 3 according to an embodiment of the disclosure as shown in FIG. 9. As shown in the figure on the far left, in a first embodiment there is no magnetic add-on member 6 installed on the frame 32, and the emitted light is not modified in any way. As shown in the second figure from the left, in a second embodiment an optical element 62 providing wide optics is attached onto the magnetic element 35 that diffuses the emitted light, providing a less focused light that spreads more horizontally. As shown in the third figure from the left, in a third embodiment an optical element 62 providing narrow optics is attached onto the magnetic element 35 that focuses the emitted light, providing a more focused light that spreads less horizontally but provides a stronger light in a narrow scope. Finally, as shown in the figure on the far right, in a fourth embodiment an optical element 62 providing angle optics is attached onto the magnetic element 35 that changes the angle of focus of the emitted light.

[0093] FIGS. 11 A, 11 B, 12A, 12B show isometric and side views of similar embodiments of the device as shown in FIG. 4, 5A, 5B, and FIGS. 6A through 6C, each pair of figures illustrating the two steps of inserting the insert 3 into a fixture 2 of the modular lighting device 1 and pushing and twisting the insert 3 inside the fixture 2 for locking the fingers 31 of each second member 42 with the first members 41 of the fixture 2, while engaging the engagement surface 52 of the resilient element 5.

[0094] FIG. 13A and 13B illustrate another possible embodiment of the modular lighting device 1 , which is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS 7A-7C, with the difference of having one large spring as the resilient element 5 abutting the base 20 of the fixture, instead of a plurality of springs 51 combined with an engagement surface 52 as shown in previous embodiments.

[0095] Listing of Elements

[0096] 1 device

[0097] 2 fixture

[0098] 20 fixture base

[0099] 21 hooks

[0100] 22 side wall

[0101] 23 groove

[0102] 24 quick connector

[0103] 25 electrical means

[0104] 26 inner diameter

[0105] 3 insert

[0106] 30 insert base

[0107] 31 finger

[0108] 32 frame

[0109] 33 removable functional elements

[0110] 34 fastening means

[0111] 35 magnetic element

[0112] 36 integrated functional element

[0113] 37 cover element

[0114] 38 outer diameter

[0115] 39 hook-shaped portion

[0116] 4 quick coupling mechanism

[0117] 41 first member

[0118] 42 second member

[0119] 5 resilient element

[0120] 51 spring

[0121] 52 engagement surface

[0122] 53 stop element

[0123] 54 spring housing

[0124] 6 magnetic add-on member

[0125] 61 functional add-on element

[0126] 62 optical add-on element

[0127] 63 magnets

[0128] The various aspects and implementations have been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein. However, other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed subject-matter, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0129] The reference signs used in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this disclosure. As used in the description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbial derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”, etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as appropriate.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A modular lighting device (1 ) comprising:- a hollow cylindrical fixture (2) adapted to be mounted in a recess of a ceiling or a wall, the hollow cylindrical fixture (2) comprising a fixture base (20) and a lateral side wall (22) defining a fixture inner diameter (26);- at least one interchangeable insert (3) comprising a circular insert base (30) and a cylindrical outer boundary defined by an insert outer diameter (38) dimensioned to substantially correspond to the fixture inner diameter (26);- at least one resilient element (5) configured to be arranged in the fixture (2) and to resiliently engage with the insert (3); and- a quick coupling mechanism (4) for releasably securing the insert (3) in the fixture (2) via a push-and-twist motion, the quick coupling mechanism (4) comprising at least one first member (41 ) arranged in the fixture (2) and at least one corresponding second member (42) arranged in the insert (3) and configured to releasably engage with the first member (41 ); wherein the at least one first member (41) is arranged extending inwardly from the lateral side wall (22) of the hollow cylindrical fixture (2); and wherein the at least one second member (42) is arranged extending axially from the insert base (30) such that they do not extend radially beyond the cylindrical outer boundary.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein at least one first member (41 ) comprises a groove (23) arranged to engage with a hook-shaped portion (39) of a second member (42).

3. The device of claim 2, wherein at least one second member (42) comprises an L-shaped finger (31 ) with hook-shaped portion (39) arranged to lock into the groove (23) of a first member (41 ) upon a push and a rotation of the insert (3) in a first direction and release from the groove (23) upon a push and a rotation of the insert (3) in an opposite second direction with respect to the fixture (2).

4. The device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one second member (42) is arranged to slidably engage with an engagement surface (52) of a resilient element (5), wherein the resilient element (5) is configured to allow the engagement surface (52) to be resiliently pushed in by the second member (42) during insertion of the insert (3) in the fixture (2) and toexert a force on the second member (42) when not being pushed so as to releasably engage the second member (42) and the first member (41 ).

5. The device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fixture (2) comprises a plurality of radially regularly spaced first members (41 ) extending inwardly from the lateral side wall (22) with gaps arranged between the first members (41 ); and wherein each insert (3) comprises a corresponding plurality of second members (42) extending axially from the insert base (30) and arranged to fit into the gaps between the first members (41 ) when the insert (3) is inserted into the fixture (2).

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the fixture (2) comprises three radially regularly spaced first members (41 ) and each insert (3) comprises three second members (42).

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each first member (41 ) comprises an L-shaped portion according to a first orientation and each second member (42) comprises a correspondingly L-shaped portion arranged rotated 180 degrees with respect to the first orientation, the L-shaped portions arranged to releasably engage with each other upon a push-and- twist motion of the insert (3) with respect to the fixture (2).

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one resilient element (5) is a removable element arranged to be inserted in the hollow fixture (2) before the interchangeable insert (3).

9. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one resilient element (5) comprises a spring (51 ) configured to provide resistance during insertion and removal of the interchangeable insert (3).

10. The device of of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fixture (2) comprises a plurality of radially regularly spaced first members (41 ) extending inwardly from the lateral side wall (22), and the device comprises a plurality of resilient elements (5) each arranged in a gap between adjacent first members (41 ), each resilient element (5) comprising an engagement surface (52) arranged to be resiliently pushed in by a second member (42) during insertion of an insert (3) in the fixture (2).11 . The device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one resilient element (5) comprises a stop element (53) to limit the extent to which an insert (3) can be pushed into the fixture (2).

12. The device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein at least one interchangeable insert (3) comprises a frame (32) for receiving removable functional elements (33), such as a light source, the frame (32) comprising fastening means (34) for releasably securing the removable functional elements (33).

13. The device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the insert (3) comprises a magnetic element (35) for attachment of a magnetic add-on member (6), such as a functional add-on element (61 ) comprising a functional element or an optical add-on element (62) for changing optical properties of the emitted light from the insert (3).

14. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least one interchangeable insert (3) comprises a frame (32) with an integrated functional element (36) such as a fixed light source, a wired connection for pendant light source, a motion sensor, a security camera, a smoke alarm, screw insert, or an electric outlet.

15. The device of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the fixture (2) further comprises an electrical quick connector (24) for connecting to electrical means (25) for powering an interchangeable insert (3).

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