Improved lighting system

Abstract

A lighting system (10) comprising a lighting source and a light control device. These combine to emit light directionally to illuminate an expansive area adjacent to the lighting system. The location from which the light is emitted directs light below the average eyeline height of typical personnel intended to work in the area.

Description

“IMPROVED LIGHTING SYSTEM”Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for illuminating areas having reduced or no light.

[0002] The invention has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, for the purpose of illuminating working areas such as construction sites and mine sites.Background Art

[0003] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. It is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0004] Proper illumination in work areas, such as construction and mining operations, is crucial for ensuring that tasks are performed correctly and for safeguarding the safety of personnel.

[0005] For instance, in underground mines and during nighttime road works or mining activities, adequate lighting is indispensable. Currently, lighting systems used in these scenarios have very high luminous intensity and so the light sources are mounted at an elevated position, well above workers, equipment and machinery to maximise the area being illuminated and remove the naked light from direct line of sight that obviously would have a deleterious effect on the workers. These systems still use naked or unshielded lights to mitigate the reduction in the luminous efficacy of the light source given that it is more distant from the work area. Examples include lighting towers dispersed across work areas to illuminate the ground below and standing lamps with unshielded lights .

[0006] The fact that these prior art light sources are unshielded and naked has its drawbacks. Despite their elevated location with respect to personnel and machinery, the light emanating from unshielded, naked light sources still creates glare that can potentially blind the personnel undertaking the work using machinery and tools required for doingthe work. This excessive glare makes the current lighting system in the workplace hazardous, as it can result in personnel being blinded while handling dangerous machinery and tools.

[0007] For example, the light can shine directly into the eyes of the personnel due to their movements (such as upward head movements) while undertaking work. This can impede the personnel from properly seeing the work area and co-workers close to them temporarily while conducting particular activities involving machinery and tools and may have longer term impacts on their eyesight.

[0008] Another drawback is the formation of shadows when the light is coming from an elevated, static position and shines onto the personnel and the machinery. The shadows reduce the visibility of the areas cast by the shadows. For example, particular surfaces of the work areas cast by the shadows may not be properly illuminated, impeding the personnel from properly seeing the ground on which they walk and conduct their activities. This increases the safety hazard and can even create life-threatening situation for the personnel.

[0009] Another problem with these prior art lighting systems is that they tend to be fixed or static and not capable of easy rotation to facilitate re-direction of the luminous intensity of the light within a full 360° sweep or allowing for angular adjustment about a horizontal axis.

[0010] The situation is exacerbated if power to the light source is supplied remotely by diesel generators, battery packs or some other remote power source due to the complexity in translating the delivery of power from a static frame of reference (the remote location) to a dynamic frame of reference (the light source).

[0011] Further still, any diesel or engine-based power generation will generally create a noise pollution problem that may impact on where the light source can be deployed.

[0012] Also any elevated tower arrangement creates a problem with transportability, and the effort involved with mounting and dismounting, which detracts from the cycle-time efficacy, labour cost per setup, equipment utilisation rate and return on deployment metrics of the lighting system.

[0013] It is against this background that various embodiments of the present invention have been developed.Disclosure of the Invention

[0014] According to one embodiment of the invention there is provided a lighting system comprising a lighting source and a light control device that combine to emit light directionally to illuminate an expansive area adjacent to the lighting system; wherein the location from which the light is emitted directs light below the average eyeline height of typical personnel intended to work in the area. This ensures that the area below an upper bound defined generally by the average eyeline height of the personnel is illuminated without interfering with their eyesight.

[0015] Preferably, in this embodiment, the lighting system comprises one or more lighting features located at a height lower than the average eyeline height of the personnel.

[0016] According to one aspect of this embodiment the lighting system is permanently installed in a particular location for illuminating a particular work area where work is conducted on a permanent basis or periodically.

[0017] Alternatively, according to another aspect of this embodiment, the lighting system is installed onto a chassis of a vehicle.

[0018] Preferably, the vehicle comprises a trailer having a trailer surface for supporting a support surface spaced apart from the trailer surface.

[0019] Preferably, the support surface comprises a lighting assembly having at least one lighting feature.

[0020] Preferably, the lighting feature is attached to a lower surface of the support surface.

[0021] Preferably, the support surface extends a distance beyond the lighting feature attached to the lower surface of the support surface.

[0022] Preferably, the lighting feature comprises at least one elongated light assembly and a circular lighting assembly.

[0023] Preferably, the light sources of light assemblies may be defined by a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

[0024] Preferably, the lighting system is adapted to be operatively connected to an electric energy source for operation of the lighting features.

[0025] Alternatively, the lighting features may be driven by electric energy stored in batteries of the lighting system.

[0026] Preferably, the lighting system comprises a solar panel assembly for charging the batteries.

[0027] In an arrangement, the support surface is adapted to move to increase or decrease the spacing between the trailer surface and the lighting features.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] The accompanying drawings depict specific non-limiting embodiments of the best modes for carrying out the invention, where further features of the present invention are more fully described. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:Fig 1 is a side view of a particular arrangement of a lighting system in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;Fig 2 is a plan view of the lighting system shown in Fig 1 ;Fig 3 is a front view of the lighting system shown in Fig 1 ;Fig 4 is a rear view of the lighting system shown in Fig 1 ;Fig 5 is a rear view of the lighting system shown in Fig 1 in use;Fig 6 is a front exploded perspective view of a trailer and its components to form a lighting system in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;Fig 7a is a right rear corner perspective view of the trailer of Fig 6;Fig 7b is a left rear corner perspective view of the trailer of Fig 6;Fig 7c is a similar view to Fig 7b showing the rear lighting feature turned 90° anticlockwise to illuminate the area adjacent to the rear of the trailer, and the front lighting feature turned 90° clockwise to illuminate the area adjacent to the front of the trailer;Fig 8a is a diagrammatic plan view of the trailer showing the relative position of the solar panels and lighting assemblies in a neutral position corresponding to Fig 7b;Fig 8b is a similar plan view to Fig 8b but showing the relative position of the solar panels and lighting assemblies in a position corresponding to that shown in Fig 7c;Fig 8c is a similar view to Figs 8a and 8b but showing the rear lighting feature turned 135° anti-clockwise to illuminate the area adjacent to the rear right of the trailer, and the front lighting feature turned 135° clockwise to illuminate the area adjacent to the front right of the trailer;Fig 9a is an orthogonal right-side view of the trailer of Fig 6;Fig 9b is an orthogonal left side view of the trailer of Fig 6:Fig 10a is an orthogonal rear view of the trailer with the sub-frame assembly in a horizontal position for travelling or use;Fig 10b is an orthogonal rear view of the trailer with the sub-frame assembly pivoted to an inclined position about a horizontal axis for use or solar collecting;Fig 11 a is an orthogonal front view of the trailer with the sub-frame assembly in a horizontal position for travelling or use;Fig 1 1 b is an orthogonal front view of the trailer with the sub-frame assembly pivoted to an inclined position about a horizontal axis for use or solar collecting;Fig 12a is a plan diagrammatic view showing the trailer and key components in accordance with the second embodiment with the sub-frame assembly and solarpanels rotated about a vertical axis so that the lighting assembly is disposed to the right side of the trailer;Fig 12b is a similar view to Fig 12a showing the sub-frame assembly and solar panels rotated 45° clockwise so that the lighting assembly is disposed towards the right and rear of the trailer;Fig 12c is a similar view to Fig 12a showing the sub-frame assembly and solar panels rotated 90° clockwise so that the lighting assembly is disposed towards the rear of the trailer;Fig 13a is an inset fragmentary perspective view showing the magnetic friction hinge arrangement for frictionally damping movement of the turntable and earthing the sub-frame to the chassis;Fig 13b is an inset fragmentary perspective view showing the magnetic friction hinge arrangement for frictionally damping movement of a lighting assembly and mounting bar fixture;Fig 14 is a schematic wiring and circuit diagram of the power and control system of the lighting system in accordance with the second embodiment; andFig 15 is a diagrammatic plan view of a lighting system in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention showing the relative position of solar panels and lighting assemblies in a neutral position where the emitted light path travels across the trailer using the underside of the solar panels as a lighting shade.Mode(s) for Carrying Out the Invention

[0029] Various modes for carrying out the invention will be described in relation to several specific embodiments with reference to the drawings. Each embodiment relates to a lighting system for illuminating areas adjacent to or surrounding the lighting system in order for personnel to conduct work outdoors such as during building structure construction, road works or mining at night-time or in bad lighting conditions, or inside underground areas such as underground mines or building structures.

[0030] The lighting system of each of these embodiments is adapted to emit light such that it will not affect the safety of personnel or the work to be conducted by the personnel.This is due to the fact that the lighting system is configured in a manner so to not reduce the level of illumination of the area where the work is conducted or affect the eyesight of the personnel.

[0031] In particular, the lighting system of each embodiment is configured so that the light emitted by a lighting source of the lighting system travels directionally below the average eyeline height of typical personnel to illuminate an expansive area where they are to work. In this manner the expansive area below an upper bound defined by the average eyeline of the personnel is illuminated while not interfering with the personnel’s eyesight.

[0032] The fact that the emitted light travels below the personnel’s eyeline is particularly useful because the personnel can continue to work and look above and everywhere with adequate illumination for them to carry out their activities without risk of glare or being dazzled that could place them in a dangerous situation.

[0033] The lighting system in one embodiment of the invention is permanently installed at a particular location for illuminating a particular area where work is conducted on a permanent basis or periodically.

[0034] In another embodiment, the lighting system 10 is installed onto a moveable surface such as a motorised vehicle or non-motorised vehicle such as a trailer.

[0035] The first specific embodiment of the modes for carrying out the invention will now be described with reference to Figs 1 to 5 of the drawings. This particular embodiment permits locating a lighting system 10 at one location where work will be undertaken. After completion of the work, the lighting system 10 may be moved to another location.

[0036] This particular embodiment is particularly useful for temporally illuminating areas where during night-time, for example, roadworks need to be conducted such as shown in figure 5.

[0037] As shown in figures 1 to 5, the lighting system 10 is defined by a non- motorised vehicle such as a trailer 16.

[0038] The trailer 16 comprises a trailer surface in the form of a chassis 18 having a wheel assembly 20, rear stand 22a and front stand 22b for keeping the trailer 16 in a horizontal condition whilst the lighting system 10 is stationary, and a hitch assembly 24 permittingtowing of the trailer 16 for moving the lighting system 10 to the locations where illumination is required.

[0039] Further, the trailer 16 comprises a sub-frame assembly 25 that includes a rectangular panel 26 spaced apart from the trailer chassis 18 by four posts 13 one disposed proximate to each corner of the panel, two transversely spaced rear posts 13a and two transversely spaced front posts 13b. The panel 26 has a pair of opposing longitudinal sides 27, a left-hand side 27a and a right-hand side 27b and a pair of opposing ends, a rear end 42 and a front end 44.

[0040] A lighting arrangement 28 is attached to the underside of the panel 26 and includes a plurality of lighting assemblies 1 1 in the form of a pair of elongated light bars 12a and 12b disposed adjacent to the one side 27a of the panel and a circular light bar 14, disposed proximately centrally intermediate the opposing sides 27a and 27b and the opposing ends 42 and 44.

[0041] As shown in, for example, figures 1 , 3 and 4, the light bars 12 and 14 are attached to a lower surface 30 of the underside of the panel 26. In particular, the panel lower surface 30 functions as a light control device 34 that extends transversely from the one side 27a of the panel 26, opposite the elongated light bars 12a and 12b, to the other side 27b of the panel, adjacent to the light bars 12a and 12b, and longitudinally from the rear end 42 of the trailer to the front end 44.

[0042] The light control device 34 performs the function of a lighting shade that limits the spread or emission of light emanating from within a space 46 beneath the lower surface 30 of the panel 26 as shown in figures 3 and 4. In this manner, the light emitted by lighting sources of the light bars 12 and 14 will emanate from below the panel 26, as shown in Fig 2, and be emitted beyond the trailer 16. In this arrangement, the lower surface 30 of the panel acts as the light control device and functions in the manner of a lighting shade to shield personnel 32 working in the illuminated area from the glare created by the lighting sources of the light bars 12 that otherwise would blind or dazzle them. As shown in Figs 2 and 5, the emitted light travels a path 40 which is below the eyeline of personnel 32, shielding them from the glare.

[0043] The lighting sources of the light bars 12 and 14 comprise a plurality of lightproducing elements 36 and light guide elements 38. The light-producing element 36 inthe present embodiment is a high brightness Light Emitting Diode (LED) and the light guide element 38, as shown in Fig 2, is a parabolic reflector for focusing the light of the LED within each lighting assembly 1 1 .

[0044] Each lighting assembly 1 1 is formed of a plurality of light-producing elements 36 and associated light guide elements 38 arranged in an array of at least one row to create a focused beam of high intensity light providing powerful illumination over a long distance, for example 100 to 200 metres. In particular, these LEDs can be arranged side by side in a straight line as in the elongated light bars 12a and 12b, or in a circular arrangement as in the circular light assembly 14 as shown in Fig 2.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the light producing element is a High Intensity Discharge lamp (HID) and the light guide element is a light collimation lens in the form of a Fresnel lens positioned behind the HID.

[0046] For operation in the present embodiment, the lighting system 10 is adapted to be connected to an external electric energy source such as a portable power plant or the electric grid. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the lighting system 10 is self-sufficient, incorporating batteries on the trailer chassis permitting storage of electric energy. For charging purposes, the batteries are operatively connected in one embodiment to any external electric energy source or, in another embodiment to solar panels mounted to the lighting system 10 such as on the upper surface of the panel 26.

[0047] In operation, once a particular area (such as a road as shown in Fig 5) needs to be illuminated, the lighting system 10 of the first embodiment is taken to the particular area and is operatively connected to an electric energy source to power the lighting assembly 1 1 . Alternatively, in the other embodiment, the lighting assembly is powered by the electric energy stored in the batteries.

[0048] As mentioned, the fact that the lighting assemblies in the first embodiment are shaded by the light control device 34, by locating the light bars 12 and 14 below the panel 26 and setting their height approximately lower than the average eyeline of the personnel 32, the emitted light 40 (see Figs 2 and 5) shines below the personnel’s eyeline and shields them from the glare typically generated by the naked lights of conventional lighting systems currently used in the workplace.

[0049] The second specific embodiment of the modes for carrying out the invention is specifically directed towards improving several aspects of the first embodiment and extending its functionality and utility. The second embodiment is described with reference to Figs 6 to 14.

[0050] In describing this second embodiment, the same reference numerals have been used with the addition of a ‘ to denote similar features previously described in the first embodiment; and new features are of higher number than any of the features specifically referenced in the first embodiment.

[0051] As shown in Figs 6, 7a, and 7b, a lighting system 10’ again is defined by a trailer 16’ similar to the first embodiment, comprising a wheel assembly 20’, a chassis 18’, a sub-frame assembly 25’ and a lighting arrangement 28’ in the form of lighting assemblies 11 ’s, However, instead of the sub-frame assembly being fixedly mounted to the chassis in a stationary position, the lighting system 10’ includes a turntable 50 interconnecting the sub-frame assembly 25’ in selective rotatable relationship to the chassis 18’ about a vertical axis.

[0052] Further, the sub-frame assembly 25’ is interconnected with the turntable 50 in a selective pivotable relationship to be moved between a horizontal and an inclined position relative to the turntable and chassis 18’.

[0053] Additionally, instead of the sub-frame assembly including a panel to which the lighting arrangement is attached, the sub-frame assembly 25’ of the second embodiment is multi-layered comprising a lower sub-frame 52, a cross-member support framework 54 fixedly mounted upon the lower sub-frame and a solar panel array 56 fitted upon the cross-member support framework.

[0054] The lighting arrangement 28’ is also enhanced from the lighting arrangement 28 of the first embodiment, being independently adjustable and moveable about horizontal and vertical axes relative to the sub-frame assembly 26’.

[0055] Also, there is provision for:(i) a battery pack 58 or other component(s) or load to be located on the turntable 50; and(ii) a control box 60 for housing the main components of a power and control system 62 to power and control the interaction between: the light producing elements 36’, the battery pack 58 and the solar panel array 56 to be provided on the sub-frame assembly 25’.

[0056] This provides a self-sufficient lighting system 10’ that does not require any externally sourced power and is self-contained as part of the moveable sub-frame assembly 25’ to be structurally isolated from the trailer 16’ and chassis 18’.

[0057] Now describing these components in more detail, the trailer chassis 18’ comprises a rectangular main frame 64 formed of rectangular hollow section steel (RHS) that is mounted via a suspension system (not shown) to an axle (not shown), which is connected to the wheel assembly 20’.

[0058] The main frame 64 has a pair of opposing longitudinal frame members 66, one 66b disposed on the right-hand side of the trailer 16’ as shown in Fig 6 and Fig 7a, and the other 66a disposed on the left-hand side as shown in Fig 6 and Fig 7b. The main frame 64 has a pair of opposing transverse frame members 68 respectively disposed at opposing ends of the trailer. A rear frame member 68a is disposed posteriorly of the trailer 16’ along with tail lights 70 as shown in Figs 7. A front frame member 68b is disposed anteriorly of the trailer and supports a drawbar 72 to which a hitch assembly 24’ is connected for coupling to a vehicle when towed as shown in Fig 6.

[0059] The main frame also has a plurality of intermediate cross frame members 74, a central cross-frame member 74a that surmounts the axle (not shown), a rear cross frame member 74b disposed a prescribed distance towards the rear frame member 68a, and a front cross frame member 74c disposed the same prescribed distance towards the front frame member 68b.

[0060] The central cross-frame member 74a has a central stub axle 76 fixedly mounted to it equidistantly between the longitudinal frame members 66. The stub axle 76 is affixed to the planar surface of the cross-frame member 74a so that it rises substantially vertically when the trailer is in an operative position to define a central axis 77 normal to the plane of the main frame 64. The stub axle 76 is connected to a backing plate 78 of a turntable bearing and drum brake assembly 80, which includes a brake drum 82 and a turntable hub 84 concentric with the central axis 77, as shown in Fig 6. The turntable hub 84 isprovided with a plurality of threaded studs 85 radially and equi-angularly spaced about a central boss 86, which is also concentric with the central axis 77, and is terminated by a dust cap.

[0061] The turntable bearing and drum brake assembly 80 is of conventional design where the stub axle 76 is provided with a spindle (not shown) that supports an inner and outer bearing arrangement (not shown) which is connected to the turntable hub 84. In this manner, the turntable hub 84 is able to rotate about the central axis 77 relative to the main frame 64.

[0062] The turntable bearing and drum brake assembly 80 includes a handbrake mechanism 88 of conventional design. The handbrake mechanism 88 is operable to lock rotation of the turntable hub 84 at selective fixed angular positions about the central axis 77 and to release it from those positions. As shown in Fig 6, the handbrake mechanism 88 includes a handbrake lever 90 that depends from a slot (not shown) provided in the backing plate 78 that is attached to a brake shoe (not shown) inside the brake drum 82 to operate the braking mechanism. The handbrake lever 90 is normally biased to dispose the brake shoes in a released position from the brake drum 82, allowing it to rotate freely.

[0063] The handbrake lever 90 is in turn attached to a handbrake cable 92 that connects to a handbrake handle 94 pivotally mounted to the front frame member 68b of the main frame 64. The handbrake handle 94 includes a ratchet plate and pawl mechanism (not shown) that is connected to a release button 96 so that when the handle is pulled, it is actuated and the the handbrake cable 92 is tightened to apply the braking effect of the brake shoe on the brake drum 82 and lock the turntable hub 84 in position.

[0064] Simultaneously, the pawl is latched into position with the ratchet plate to lock the handbrake handle 94 in its actuated position and maintain the handbrake cable 92 in this tightened condition, locking the turntable hub 84 in a locked position. The release button 96 is configured so that when pressed, it lifts the pawl to allow the handbrake handle 94 to return to its resting position, releasing the tension on the handbrake cable 92. This in turn allows the handbrake lever 90 to be biased back to a resting position, releasing the braking effect of the brake shoe on the brake drum 82.

[0065] The turntable 50 comprises a circular base plate 98 that functions as a platform for locating the battery pack 58, and a trunnion support assembly 100 having a pair oftrunnion supports 102 diametrically opposed, adjacent to the periphery 98a from the base plate and projecting upwardly to support the sub-frame assembly 25’ at as prescribed distance above the platform. The base plate 98 is formed with corresponding countersunk holes to the studs 85 and a corresponding central hole to the central boss 86 (not shown) so that the turntable 50 may be aligned and surmounted upon the turntable hub 84 and be affixed in position by fastening corresponding nuts (not shown) to the studs. In this manner, the turntable 50 can be selectively rotated by translating applied torque to the sub- frame assembly 25’ or directly to the base plate, which is transferred to the turntable hub 84 to rotate within the bearing arrangement.

[0066] The intermediate cross-frame members 74 each have riser brackets 104 fixedly mounted upon them by welding, within which are associated height adjustable limit elements 106. A pair of riser bracket / limit element combinations, one left 104a / 106a and one right 104b / 106b, is disposed one at each opposing end of the central cross frame member 74a, one riser bracket / limit element combination 104c / 106c is disposed centrally of the rear cross frame member 74b and one riser bracket / limit element combination 104d / 106d is disposed centrally of the front cross frame member 74c.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the limit element 104 is a limit bolt having a rounded head that is screwed into an aperture provided in each riser bracket 106. The riser bracket / limit element combinations 104 / 106 are precisely located so that the bolt heads of each define a circular locus disposed marginally inward of the periphery 98a of the circular base plate 98, so that the base plate always overlies the limit elements 104 during an entire revolution of the turntable 50.

[0068] Further, the height of each limit element 104 is precisely adjusted to provide a prescribed clearance in the present embodiment of approximately 1 mm between the top of the limit bolt head and the undersurface of the circular base plate 98. This provides a tolerance of 1 mm to limit axial movement of the turntable 50 away from the central axis 77 during rotation to avoid damaging the turntable bearing and drum brake assembly 80. The prescribed clearance and tolerance is varied from 1 mm in accordance with the specification of the bearing arrangement.

[0069] In the trunnion support assembly 100, each trunnion support 102 comprises an upright arm 108 and a pair of angled stays 1 10, the base of each being welded to theupper surface 98b of the base plate 98 in a tripod configuration and the distal end of each forming an apex to which is attached a trunnion mounting plate 1 12. Each trunnion mounting plate 1 12 has an axially aligned aperture to define a transverse axis 1 14 in a substantially horizontal plane about which the sub-frame assembly 25’ can pivot to a limited degree of, for example 45°. cross-frame member

[0070] The lower sub-frame 52 of the sub-frame assembly 25’ has a similar rectangular shape to the main frame 64, although it includes several distinguishing features. It is of comparable length having a pair of parallel spaced longitudinal side frame members 1 15: a left-hand side frame member 1 15a and right-hand side frame member 1 15b; and a pair of parallel spaced transverse end frame members: a rear transverse end frame member 1 15c and a front transverse end frame member 1 15d. Notably, the lower sub-frame 52 has a smaller transverse extent overall than the main frame 64 and is mounted to be positioned directly above and in planar spaced relationship to the main frame. Notably, it also comprises two intermediate cross frame members 1 16 in contrast to the main frame 64: a rear cross-frame member 1 16a and a front cross-frame member 1 16b.

[0071] Further, the lower sub-frame 52 also includes two intermediate longitudinal rails: a rear intermediate longitudinal rail 117a and a front intermediate longitudinal rail 1 17b. They respectively extend between the rear transverse end 1 15c and the rear cross-frame member 1 16a in the case of the rear longitudinal rail 117a; and between the front transverse end 115d and the front cross-frame member 1 16b in the case of the front longitudinal rail 117b.

[0072] In the present embodiment, the intermediate longitudinal rails 1 17 are in alignment and are disposed closer towards the left-hand side frame member 1 15a than the righthand side frame member 1 15b to respectively support the lighting assemblies 1 T inwardly a maximum distance from the left-hand side frame member 1 15a without interfering with the battery pack 58 or other load disposed on the turntable base plate 98. In this manner, an optimal effect can still be achieved with the light control device 34’, which will be described in more detail later.

[0073] The intermediate cross-frame members 116 have affixed to each, on the inner sides facing each other, a corresponding mounting bracket 1 18 provided with an axially aligned aperture. The intermediate cross-frame members 1 16 and the mounting brackets1 16 are precisely disposed to be medially spaced apart a distance marginally greater than the spacing of the trunnion mounting plates 1 12, In this manner, when the lower subframe 52 is in superposition with the main frame 64, the mounting brackets 116 fit in outer juxtaposed, relationship with the trunnion mounting plates 112 so that the respective axially aligned apertures are in co-axial relationship with each other defining a passage within which corresponding bushings 120 are fitted.

[0074] The bushings 120 in turn respectively accommodate trunnion pins in the form of bolts 122 and nuts 124 which are fastened with slip washers (not shown) to allow pivoting of the lower sub-frame 52 relative to the turntable 50 about the transverse axis 114.

[0075] As best shown in Figs 7a and 10, the circular base plate 98 has a lower fixing bracket 126 mounted to it adjacent to the outer side of the angled stay 1 10 of the rear trunnion support 102a on the right-hand side of the trailer when in a transport mode as shown in the drawings, and the right-hand side frame member 1 15b of the lower subframe 52 has an upper fixing bracket 128 mounted to it adjacent to the outer side of the rear cross-frame member 1 16b. The lower and upper fixing brackets 126 and 128 respectively interconnect opposing ends of a linear actuator 130, where the cylinder end of the actuator is connected to the lower fixing bracket and the piston end is connected to the upper fixing bracket.

[0076] In the present embodiment, the linear actuator 130 is a hydraulic ram, and is actuated to extend or retract the ram to selectively and precisely alter the attitude of the lower sub-frame 52 by pivoting it about the transverse axis 1 14. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the linear actuator 130 is a pneumatic ram and is similarly actuated to extend or retract the ram to achieve corresponding effect.

[0077] In a further embodiment, but still shown in Figs 7, instead of using a linear actuator to alter the attitude of lower sub-frame 52, a magnetic friction hinge assembly 140 is used in conjunction with a magnet contact plate 142 to provide a threshold magnetic force to fix the position of the hinge assembly to the contact plate and thus the sub-frame assembly 25’ at a prescribed angular inclination about the transverse axis 1 14.

[0078] Moreover, the hinge assembly 140 includes a hinge fixing bracket portion 140a that is fixedly connected to the outer side of the rear cross-frame member 116a proximate to the rear upright arm 108a of the rear trunnion support 102a, a depending leaf portion140b and an interconnecting hinge portion 140c at the proximal ends of the bracket portion and leaf portion. The distal end of the leaf portion 140b is provided with a magnet mounting plate 144 that has affixed to it a pair of permanent magnets 146. The magnet contact plate 142 is affixed to the base plate 98 and the outer side of the rear upright arm 108a by welding.

[0079] In this manner, the permanent magnets 146 are disposed in juxtaposition to confront and magnetically contact the outer side of the magnet contact plate 142 These permanent magnets can exert a magnetic holding force of, for example, up to 200 N enabling them to hold a load of 20 kg or more. This would be sufficient to hold the subframe assembly 25’ at an inclination to the substantially horizontal plane of the turntable 50 and main frame 64 about the transverse axis 1 14; and permit angular adjustment of same by exerting a force greater than 200 N and have the magnets 146 hold the subframe assembly position at this attitude.

[0080] In all of these embodiments, the integrated formation of the sub-frame assembly 25’ by virtue of the fixed interconnection between the lower sub-frame 52, the crossmember framework 54 and the solar panel array 56, means that all three components of the sub-frame assembly are simultaneously pivoted about the transverse axis 1 14 to allow the attitude of both these components and their ancillary attachments such as the lighting arrangement 28’ and the control box 60 to be altered angularly about the transverse axis.

[0081] Continuing with the second embodiment, the intermediate longitudinal rails 1 17, have corresponding light mounting bars 132, being a rear light mounting bar 132a and a front light mounting bar 132b, pivotally mounted to them by means of a corresponding rear bushing arrangement 133a and a front bushing arrangement 133b. This allows each light mounting bar 132 to be independently rotated about a corresponding posterior rotational axis 134a and an anterior rotational axis 134b, both rotational axes 134 being normal to the plane of the lower sub-frame 52. As indicated in the drawings, when the lower sub-frame 52 is substantially horizontal, the rotational axes 134 are substantially vertical.

[0082] The light mounting bars 132 have adjustably affixed to them the lighting arrangement 28’. However, the lighting assemblies 1 T of the lighting arrangement 28’ inthe second embodiment, instead of being of the form of elongated light bars, are arcuate in configuration. Moreover, a rear arcuate light bar 136a is affixed by a pair of rear angularly adjustable brackets 138a to the opposing ends of the rear light mounting bar 132a; and a front arcuate light bar 136b is similarly affixed by a pair of front angularly adjustable brackets 138b to the opposing ends of the front light mounting bar 132b.

[0083] The arcuate configuration of the light bars 136 provides a wider and more even spread of light, making them ideal for applications such as roadworks, construction sites, mine sites and industrial settings. The arcuate shape helps to cover a broader area, reducing dark spots and providing better peripheral illumination.

[0084] As in the case of the light producing elements of the first embodiment, the same high brightness LEDs are used in the light producing elements of the second embodiment. The light producing elements 36' of the second embodiment deliver powerful illumination in the order of 10,000 lumens of brightness. They are also constructed to withstand harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, dust and moisture.

[0085] The light control device 34’ of the second embodiment, instead of being provided by the underside of the sub- frame assembly 25’, is formed by the provision of a pair of light deflecting shading panels 149 associated with each lighting assembly 11 ’. A rear shading panel 149a is fixedly disposed in the recess between the rear light mounting bar 132a and the rear arcuate light bar 136a; and a front shading panel 149b is fixedly disposed on the recess between the front arcuate light bar 136b. In either case, the shading panels 149 are supported by angled brackets (not shown) disposed at opposing ends of the recess

[0086] As shown in Fig 13a in the case of the rear lighting assembly 11 ’, a corresponding magnetic friction hinge and plate assembly 148 is associated with each of the light mounting bars 132. A flange plate 150 is fixedly attached by welding to the underside of each intermediate longitudinal rail 1 17 for mounting the magnetic friction hinge component 152 of the assembly 148 and a semi-circular magnet contact plate 154 of the assembly is fixedly attached by welding to the corresponding light mounting bar 132.

[0087] The magnetic friction hinge component 152 comprises:(i) a hinge fixing bracket portion 156a that is detachably connected to the flange plate 150 by means of nut and bolt fasteners 158 on either side of the intermediate longitudinal rail 1 17;(ii) an outwardly extending leaf portion 156b;(iii) an interconnecting hinge portion 156c that interconnects the bracket portion 156a and the leaf portion 156b at their proximal ends; and(iv) a permanent magnet 156d at the distal end of the leaf portion 156b.

[0088] The magnet 156d engages with the upper surface of the magnet contact plate 154 exerting a magnetic holding force of a prescribed amount, sufficient to hold the corresponding light mounting bar 132 in a fixed angular position about the corresponding rotational axis 134. The relative angular position of a particular light mounting bar 132 can be adjusted by applying a torque greater than the magnetic holding force and holding the mounting bar at this position for the magnetic holding force of the magnet 156d applied to the magnet contact plate 154, overcoming the loss of torque.

[0089] Another magnetic friction hinge assembly 160 is used as shown in Fig 13a, to apply magnetic damping to resist rotation of the turntable 50 from applied torque below a prescribed threshold and work in conjunction with the braking effect of the handbrake mechanism 88 to lock the turntable at a prescribed position about the central axis 77. In this case, the magnetic friction hinge component 162 of the assembly 160 is fixedly mounted to the front cross-frame member 74c and the underside of the turntable base plate 98 functions as a magnetic contact plate component.

[0090] The magnetic friction hinge component 162 comprises a hinge fixing bracket portion 164a, an upwardly and outwardly projecting leaf portion 164b, a hinge portion 164c interconnecting the proximal ends of the fixing bracket portion and leaf portion, and an upwardly facing contact magnet 164d. The hinge fixing bracket portion 164a is fixedly connected to the side of the front riser bracket 104d and the front cross frame member 74c by welding. The contact magnet 164d magnetically engages the underside of the turntable base plate 98 to not only provide frictional control of the rotation of the turntable 50 but also functions as an earthing contact for the sub-frame assembly 25’ to the main frame 64.

[0091] The control box 60 contains the power and control system 62 for the solar panel array 56, battery pack 58 and in inverter control circuit. The circuit diagram for such is as shown in Fig 14 and comprises the following components:(a) An MPPT 250 / 100 box having B+ and B- terminals, that are respectively connected via a red line and a black line both labelled 10mm2 X-HF, which are parameters or names of corresponding in-line single pole switches that are components of a 63A 2P DC MCB. The red line is connected to the B+ terminal of an MPPT 250 / 100 box(b) A dashed line extends partially from the MPPT 250 / 100 box above the red line and is labelled TO CERBO above it and VE.CAN below it.(c) A separate line in purple opposite the B+ and B- terminals is labelled RELAY and connects to another box called Battery Protect.(d) One of the sides of the MPPT 250 / 100 box has two lines, respectively red and black (the black line labelled 4mm2 X-HF or X-90) connected to another box labelled PV COMBINER, 40KA SPD & 40A MCB.(e) The opposing side of the PV COMBINER, 40KA SPD & 40A MCB box has two lines, respectively red and black again (the black line similarly being labelled 4mm2 X-HF or X-90) and is connected to another box labelled SOLAR STRING, which is not connected to anything else.(f) The two lines coming from the B+ and B- terminals of the MPPT 250 / 100 box, after the switches are respectively connected to read and black lines of a bus, which at one end is connected to 24V DC DISTRIBUTOR 1 , and at the other end to 24V DC DISTRIBUTOR 2 bus.(g) The bus is also connected to a box labelled LYNX SMART BMS 500, which at one end has a green line connected to the Battery Protect box.(h) The LYNX SMART BMS 500 box at the same end has two dashed lines labelled BMS Cables respectively connected to what a set of four terminal blocks connected in a cascade manner one set associated with each dashed line.(i) The lower dashed line connects to one end of a first terminal block, which has B+ and B- terminals (similar to the MPPT 250 / 100 box) at the opposing end of the block. The B+ terminal has a red line connecting it to one end of a single pole switch corresponding to it that is labelled 4 x 40A Fuse, which is one fuse in a bank of four fuses connected to each of the terminal blocks of a set. The bottom of the switch / fuse bank is labelled 6mm2 X-HF.(j) The B- terminal of the first terminal block has a black line connecting to the Bn- terminal of the second terminal block and another dashed line at the one end of the first terminal block, opposite its B- terminal, is connected to the corresponding one end of the second terminal block opposite its B- terminal.(k) The B- terminal of the second terminal block has a black line connecting it to one end of the second single pole switch / fuse bank.(l) The third and fourth terminal blocks are similarly connected to each other, alternating between red and black lines connected to respective fuses of the bank.(m) The switching poles of each of the fuses are respectively connected to the red and black lines of the bus.(n) The upper dashed line forming the other of the BMS cables is connected to one end of the fourth terminal block of the second set, opposite to the B- terminal at the opposing end of the block. The terminal blocks of the second set are similarly wired in a reverse cascading manner analogous to the first set and are respectively connected to a second bank of switches / fuses, similarly labelled to the first bank, but in reverse manner so that the first terminal block connects to the fourth switch / fuse, the third terminal block to the third switch / fuse and so on.(o) The opposite end of the LYNX SMART BMS 500 box has two dashed lines extending from it and connected to the redline of the bus at opposing sides of the LYNX SMART BMS 500 box, each labelled RJ10.(p) A central dashed line extends from the same side of the LYNX SMART BMS 500 box and is labelled TO CERBO VE.CAN, in a similar manner as to the dashed line extending from the MPPT 250 / 100 box.(q) The red and black lines of the bus are also connected to B+ and B- terminals of a discrete SKYLLA-I 24VDC box (redline to the B+ terminal and black line to the B- terminal) via corresponding single pole switches both labelled 16mm2 X-HF which are components of 80A 2P DC MCB.(r) The SKYLLA-I 24VDC box also has a dashed line extending from it at the same end as the B+ and B- terminals labelled TP CERBO VE.CAN.(s) The red and black lines of the bus are also connected to the Battery Protect box and another discrete Cerbo GX box.(t) The red line of the bus is connected via the switch end of a 32A 2P DC MCB to one end of the Battery Protect box and the black line of the bus is directly connected to another side of the Battery Protect box. A red line from the opposite end of the Battery Protect box is connected to a DC 24V Load, which is also connected via a black line to another switch component of the 32A 2P DC MCB, the switch poll of which is labelled 4mm x-hf.(u) The red line of the bus is connected via an INLINE FUSE to one end of the Cerbo GX box and the blackline of the bus is directly connected to the same end of the Cerbo GX box. The opposing end of the Cerbo GX box has red and black lines respectively connected to a GX touch 50 box. One side of the Cerbo GX box has three dashed lines respectively labelled VE.CAN to LYNX BMS, VE.CAN to SKYLLA and VE.CAN to MPPT.

[0092] The third embodiment is substantially the same as the second embodiment except that it adopts a light control device 34” based upon the manner in which the light control device 34 of the first embodiment is designed.

[0093] To achieve this, the turntable 50” of the third embodiment is supported by peripheral rollers mounted upon the main frame 64”and which engage with the periphery 98a of the turntable 50”, in lieu of the turntable bearing and drum brake assembly of the second embodiment.

[0094] This provides the circular base plate 98” with clearance from the surface of the intermediate cross-frame members 74“ of the main frame 64”, allowing it to be formed with a sunken recess to accommodate the battery pack 58” and in an alternative embodiment, the control box 60”, providing a space 46” above the battery pack and below the sub- frame assembly 25”.

[0095] This space 46” allows the lighting assemblies 1 1 ”” to be reversed from their laterally facing positions shown in Figs 6 and 7b and face inwardly to emit light beneath the sub- frame assembly 25”, using the under surface of such as the light control device 34”, similar to the first embodiment, as shown in Fig 15.

[0096] As mentioned before, the fact that in accordance with the described embodimenst of the invention, the light source is guided and preferably, by locating the light source such that the emitted light 40 is shaded by the light control devices to shine below the personnel’s eyeline shielding the personnel from the glare typically generated by the naked lights of the conventional lighting system currently used in the workplace.

[0097] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. The quantity and location of the lighting assemblies on disposed beneath the sub- frame assemblies may be not limited to the particular arrangements depicted in the drawings.

[0098] Moreover, the sub-frame assembly may be adapted to move to increase or decrease the spacing between the chassis surface and the lighting assemblies by inclining the sub-frame assembly.

[0099] Further, it should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments disclosed. These embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products, formulations and methods are clearly within the scope of the invention as described herein.

[0100] Reference to positional descriptions, such as lower and upper, or inner and outer, are to be taken in context of the embodiments depicted in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term but rather as would be understood by the skilled addressee.

[0101] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “including”, and “having”, or variations thereof are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0102] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first”, “second”, and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0103] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner”, “outer”, “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0104] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.Reference Signs List10, 10’ lighting system11 , 11 ’, 11 lighting assembly12a, 12b elongated light bar(s)13a rear post(s)13b front post(s)14 circular light bar16, 16’ trailer18, 18’ chassis20, 20’ wheel assembly22a rear stand22b front stand24, 24’ hitch assembly25. 25’ sub-frame assembly26 panel27 longitudinal side of panel27a left-hand side27b right-hand side28, 28’ lighting arrangement30 lower surface of the panel32 personnel34, 34’, 34” light control device36, 36’ light-producing element, 38’ light guide element emitted light path rear end of panel front end of panel spaceturntable lower sub-frame cross-member framework solar panel array battery pack control box power and control system main frame longitudinal frame member a left-hand side frame memberb right-hand side frame member transverse frame membera rear frame member b front frame member tail light drawbar intermediate cross frame membera central cross frame memberb rear cross frame member c front cross frame member stub axle central axis backing plate turntable bearing and drum brake assembly brake drum turntable hub threaded studs central boss handbrake mechanism handbrake lever handbrake cable handbrake handle release button circular base plate a periphery of base plate 0 trunnion support assembly 2 trunnion support 2a rear trunnion support 2b front trunnion support 4 riser bracket 4a left riser bracketb right riser bracket c rear riser bracket d front riser bracket limit element a left limit element b right limit element c rear limit element d front limit element upright arm a rear upright arm angled stay trunnion mounting plate transverse axis longitudinal frame member a left-hand side frame memberb right-hand side frame memberc rear transverse end d front transverse end cross-frame member a, rear cross-frame member b front cross-frame member a, rear intermediate longitudinal railb front intermediate longitudinal railmounting bracket bushing bolt nut lower fixing bracket upper fixing bracket linear actuator light mounting bar a rear light mounting bar b front light mounting bar a rear bushing arrangement b front bushing arrangement rotational axis a rear rotational axis b front rotational axis a rear arcuate light bar b front arcuate light bar a rear angularly adjustable bracketb front angularly adjustable bracket magnetic friction hinge assemblya hinge fixing bracket portion b leaf portion c hinge portionmagnet contact plate magnet mounting plate permanent magnet a rear magnetic friction hinge and plate assemblyb front magnetic friction hinge and plate assembly flange plate magnetic friction hinge component semi-circular magnet contact plate a hinge fixing bracket portion b outwardly extending leaf portion c interconnecting hinge portion d permanent magnet nut and bolt fasteners magnetic friction hinge assembly magnetic friction hinge component for turntablea hinge fixing bracket portion b upwardly and outwardly projecting leaf portionc hinge portion d upwardly facing contact magnet

Claims

Claims1 . A lighting system comprising a lighting source and a light control device that combine to emit light directionally to illuminate an expansive area adjacent to the lighting system; wherein the location from which the light is emitted directs light below the average eyeline height of typical personnel intended to work in the area.

2. A lighting system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the light control device is formed by the underside of a sub-frame assembly, which supports the lighting source.

3. A lighting system as claimed in claim 2, including a chassis to support the sub-frame assembly defining a space therebetween within which the emitted light may be directed.

4. A lighting system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the sub-frame assembly is interconnected with the chassis by a turntable, allowing the sub-frame assembly supporting the lighting source to be rotated about a substantially vertical axis relative to the chassis5. A lighting system as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein the sub- frame assembly is supported by a trunnion support relative to the chassis, allowing the sub-frame assembly to be pivoted about a substantially horizontal axis, changing the attitude of the lighting source relative to the chassis.

6. A lighting system as claimed in claim 5 is dependent upon claim 4, wherein the trunnion support is mounted to the turntable.

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