Lighting fixture for handrail assembly

Abstract

There is provided a handrail assembly comprising a handrail element having a longitudinal axis, a module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element, and a lighting module including a housing at least partially insertable into the module-receiving groove, the housing defining a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module, and a light source arranged within the light-emitting interior, wherein the lighting module further comprises one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture.

Description

LIGHTING FIXTURE FOR HANDRAIL ASSEMBLYRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 63 / 683,314, filed on August 15, 2024, and entitled “LIGHTING FIXTURE FOR HANDRAIL ASSEMBLY”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The technical field relates to handrails and, more particularly, to handrail assemblies for illuminating an adjacent surface.BACKGROUND

[0003] In assembly occupancies, including auditoriums and theaters, regulations require that exit walkways remain illuminated during periods of performances or projections involving direct light. Light sources for maintaining exit walkway illumination are typically integrated into steps of a staircase or mounted on a vertical surface adjacent to the steps, a ramp, a walkway, or the like. For instance, a thin light source can be integrated into a nosing or the stringer of a staircase. Alternatively, lighting fixtures can be installed in a wall or vertical structure adjacent to the stairway or walkway with the light sources facing the stairway. However, existing lighting solutions can provide inadequate illumination, are aesthetically undesirable, costly, or provide a visible light source that can be distracting to an audience. The installation of existing lighting solutions also requires extensive structural modifications to accommodate the lighting fixtures and the necessary electrical wiring.

[0004] In view of the above, there is a need for a lighting fixture which would be able to overcome or at least minimize some of the above-discussed prior art concerns.SUMMARY

[0005] According to one aspect, there is provided a handrail assembly comprising a handrail element having a longitudinal axis, a module-receiving grooveFile No. 018894-0045 1being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element, and a lighting module including a housing at least partially insertable into the module-receiving groove, the housing defining a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module, and a light source arranged within the light-emitting interior, wherein the lighting module further comprises one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture.

[0006] In some embodiments, the one or more light deflecting baffles are sized and shaped to reflect a light beam generated by the light source within the lightemitting interior.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more light deflecting baffles extend over a longitudinal length of the housing.

[0008] In some embodiments, the housing and the one or more light deflecting baffles form a unitary structure.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and the one or more light deflecting baffles are coated in a light absorbing coating.

[0010] In some embodiments, each of the one or more light deflecting baffles protrudes inwardly into the light-emitting interior at least about 0.5 mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the one or more light deflecting baffles protrudes inwardly into the light-emitting interior at least about 1 mm.

[0012] In some embodiments, adjacent ones of the one or more light-deflecting baffles are laterally spaced apart at least about 0.3 mm.

[0013] In some embodiments, adjacent ones of the one or more light-deflecting baffles are laterally spaced apart at least about 0.5 mm.

[0014] In some embodiments, the handrail element incudes a wall-facing side and an exposed side opposite the wall-facing side, the light source being mounted toFile No. 018894-0045 2the inner surface of the housing in a tilted configuration relative to a median plane of the handrail element to project light away from the wall-facing side of the handrail element.

[0015] In some embodiments, the handrail assembly further comprises one or more light restricting modules configured to be removably secured to the lighting module to at least partially obstruct the light source.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the one or might light restricting modules comprises a module body having a width substantially corresponding to a width of the light-emitting aperture and a length being less than a length of the light-emitting aperture to define a light-emitting gap adjacent to the corresponding light restricting module when the handrail assembly is assembled.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the handrail element is mounted in an inclined configuration, the module body is sized such that a height of the module body corresponds substantially to a vertical dimension of the light-emitting gap adjacent to the corresponding light restricting module.

[0018] In some embodiments, the module body comprises a ridge being shaped and dimensioned to be insertable within a groove defined in the housing of the light module to removably secure the one or more light restricting modules to the housing.

[0019] In some embodiments, the lighting module includes an indexing guide defining one or more predetermined mounting positions of the light restricting modules within the light-emitting interior.

[0020] In some embodiments, the light source comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs), the LEDs being grouped into banks of LEDs configured to be individually operable.

[0021] In some embodiments, the light source is configured to selectively operate any one of a first bank of LEDs to project a narrow array of light, a second bank of LEDs to project a wide array of light, and the first and second banks of LEDs to project a full array of light.File No. 018894-0045 3

[0022] In some embodiments, a first bank of LEDs and a second bank of LEDs of the banks of LEDs are wired to be selectively powered in one of a parallel configuration or a series configuration.

[0023] In some embodiments, a module-mounting slot is formed in an internal surface delimiting the module-receiving groove, and wherein the lighting module comprises a handrail-engaging member receivable by an interference fit within the module-mounting slot.

[0024] In some embodiments, the handrail element is extruded to define a uniform cross-sectional profile of the module-receiving groove.

[0025] In some embodiments, the lighting module is insertable into the modulereceiving groove in one of multiple longitudinal mounting locations.

[0026] In some embodiments, the handrail assembly comprises multiple lighting modules, the lighting modules being evenly spaced apart within the module-receiving groove when the handrail assembly is assembled.

[0027] In some embodiments, the handrail assembly comprises multiple lighting modules, the lighting modules being spaced at varying intervals within the modulereceiving groove when the handrail assembly is assembled to illuminate a given area of a surface adjacent to the handrail assembly.

[0028] In some embodiments, the housing includes flared portions extending outwardly away from the light-emitting aperture, the flared portions defining a curved surface being substantially congruent with an outer surface of the handrail element when the handrail assembly is assembled.

[0029] In some embodiments, the lighting module further comprises a lens mountable to the housing, the lens being configured to preclude access across the light-emitting aperture.

[0030] In some embodiments, the lens is made of one of glass, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, Vycor, or sapphire.File No. 018894-0045 4

[0031] In some embodiments, the module-receiving groove extends longitudinally along a length of the handrail element.

[0032] According to another aspect, there is provided a handrail assembly configured to be mounted to or adjacent to a wall, the handrail assembly comprising a handrail element having a longitudinal axis and comprising a wall-facing side and an exposed side opposite the wall-facing side, a module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element, and a lighting module at least partially insertable within the module-receiving groove, the lighting module defining a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module, and a light source mounted to an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior in a tilted configuration relative to a median plane of the handrail element to project light away from the wall-facing side of the handrail element.

[0033] In some embodiments, the lighting module comprises one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from the inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture.

[0034] In some embodiments, the handrail assembly includes one or more features as defined above.

[0035] A handrail lighting module for a handrail element having a longitudinal axis, a longitudinal module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element, wherein the handrail lighting module is at least partially insertable into the module-receiving groove and defines a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the handrail lighting module, the handrail lighting module comprising a light source arranged within the light-emitting interior and configured to emit light, and one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture, said one or more light deflecting baffles being shaped and dimensioned to deflect light emitted by the light source.File No. 018894-0045 5BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The attached figures illustrate various features, aspects and implementations of the technology described herein.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a bottom right perspective view of a handrail assembly, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a bottom left perspective view of the handrail assembly of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a left-side elevation view of the handrail assembly of FIG. 1 .

[0040] FIG. 4 is a right-side elevation view of the handrail assembly of FIG. 1 .

[0041] FIG. 5 is a partially exploded bottom left perspective view of the handrail assembly of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a bottom right perspective view of a handrail assembly, in accordance with another embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a schematic of the handrail assembly of FIG 1 mounted to a wall adjacent to a stairway.

[0044] FIG. 8 is a bottom left perspective view of a lighting module of the handrail assembly of FIG. 1 .

[0045] FIG. 9 is a bottom right perspective view of the lighting module of FIG. 8.

[0046] FIG. 10 is an exploded bottom left perspective view of the lighting module of FIG. 8.

[0047] FIG. 11 is a bottom left perspective view of a housing, a light source, and a lens of the lighting module of FIG. 8.

[0048] FIG. 12 is a bottom right perspective view of the housing, the light source, and the lens of FIG. 11.File No. 018894-0045 6

[0049] FIG. 13 is an exploded bottom left perspective view of the housing, the light source, and the lens of FIG. 11 .

[0050] FIG. 14 is a bottom left perspective view of the housing and the light source of FIG. 11.

[0051] FIG. 15 is a bottom side perspective view of a handrail assembly, in accordance with another embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 16 is a bottom side perspective view of a handrail assembly, in accordance with yet another embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 17 is a schematic side elevation view of the housing and the light source of FIG. 11 , shown with light beams projecting from the light source.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several references numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features may be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and / or dimensions shown in the figures are optional, and are given for exemplification purposes only.

[0055] Moreover, it will be appreciated that positional descriptions such as “above”, “below”, “forward”, “rearward” “left”, “right” and the like should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures only and should not be considered limiting. Moreover, the figures are meant to be illustrative of certain characteristics of the post mounting assembly and components thereof and are not necessarily to scale.

[0056] To provide a more concise description, some of the quantitative expressions given herein may be qualified with the term "about". It is understood that whether the term "about" is used explicitly or not, every quantity given herein is meantFile No. 018894-0045 7to refer to an actual given value, and it is also meant to refer to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred based on the ordinary skill in the art, including approximations due to the experimental and / or measurement conditions for such given value.

[0057] In the following description, an embodiment is an example or implementation. The various appearances of "one embodiment", "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments. Although various features may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, it may also be implemented in a single embodiment. Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments.

[0058] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only. The principles and uses of the teachings of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples. It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the disclosure.

[0059] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the disclosure can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the disclosure can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above. It is to be understood that the terms "including", "comprising", and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers. If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional elements. It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not to be construed that there is only one of thatFile No. 018894-0045 8element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

[0060] The descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as limiting but rather as illustrative only. Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. It will be appreciated that the methods described herein may be performed in the described order, or in any suitable order.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, there is shown a handrail assembly 10 in accordance with an embodiment. Broadly, the handrail assembly 10 is configured to provide grasping support while illuminating a surface adjacent to the handrail assembly 10. More particularly, the handrail assembly 10 includes one or more lighting modules 100 configured to provide lighting as described in greater detail below. The handrail assembly 10 could be, for instance and without being limitative, a handrail for a stairway, a pathway, a walkway or the like. The handrail assembly 10 includes a handrail element 12 substantially shaped in the form of an elongated member defining a longitudinal axis. The handrail element 12 comprises an upper grasping portion 14 shaped and dimensioned to be grasped by a user for support, and a ground-facing portion 15 opposite the upper grasping portion 14. In certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 can include multiple handrail elements 12 longitudinally secured to one another in series to define a handrail assembly 10 extending over a greater distance.

[0062] It is to be understood that although the handrail assembly 10 is described herein as a handrail configured to provide grasping support, in other embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may be configured as a guardrail to provide a boundary structure, or as a mounting fixture for the one or more lighting modules 100 without providing any grasping support.

[0063] Referring to the illustrated embodiment, an illustrative embodiment of the handrail assembly 10 is illustrated including a handrail element extending linearlyFile No. 018894-0045 9between two opposing ends thereof. In other embodiments, one or more of the elongated bodies 12 of the handrail assembly 10 can extend longitudinally along a non-linear path ( / .e., curved) so as to provide a handrail assembly 10 configured to correspond to the shape of an adjacent structure.

[0064] The handrail element 12 of the handrail assembly 10 can be manufactured in accordance with any suitable manufacturing process including, machining, casting, forging, sheet metal forming, additive manufacturing, welding, powder metallurgy or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the handrail element 12 is made out of an aluminum alloy via an extrusion process. It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the handrail element 12 can be made of any other metal, polymer, wood, or the like.

[0065] Referring more specifically to FIGS. 1 to 5, the handrail assembly 10 further includes a longitudinal module-receiving groove 20 formed in the groundfacing portion 15 of the handrail element 12 opposite the upper grasping portion 14. The module-receiving groove 20 is configured to receive the one or more lighting modules 100 as described in greater detail below. As stated above, in the illustrated embodiment, the handrail element 12 is manufactured via an extrusion process thereby providing a module-receiving groove 20 formed as a channel extending along a longitudinal length of the handrail element 12 ( / .e., along a longitudinal axis of the handrail element 12) and having a uniform transverse cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the handrail element 12 can be a solid component with one or more module-receiving groove 20 being cut, / .e., milled, out of the handrail element 12. In other embodiments still, the handrail element 12 can be a multi-component assembly defining one or more module-receiving groove 20 within the handrail element or handrail element 12.

[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, left and right sides of the handrail assembly 10 are illustrated, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the handrail element 12 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. It will be understood however that, in other embodiments, the handrail element 12 can have any other cross-sectional shape to provide a grasping surface that is ergonomic, safe and compliant with any applicable regulations.File No. 018894-0045 10

[0067] In certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 can be configured to be mounted to a vertical structure including, for instance, a wall. Referring now to FIG. 7, in such embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may include mounting brackets 30 configured to secure the handrail element 12 to a wall 2. In such embodiments, the handrail element 12 of the handrail assembly 10 defines a wallfacing side 16 adjacent to the wall 2, and an exposed side 18 opposite the wall-facing side 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12 faces a staircase 5. In other embodiments, such as when the wall 2 is not structurally stable, it may be desirable to position the handrail assembly 10 adjacent to the wall 2 while mounting the handrail assembly 10 to another structure. For instance, in certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may be configured to be mounted to one or more vertical posts (not shown) at a suitable height above a ground surface. In such embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 similarly defines a wall-facing side 16 positioned closest to the wall 2, and an exposed side 18 opposite the wall-facing side 16.

[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 8 to 14, there is shown a lighting module 100 in accordance with an embodiment. The lighting module 100 can be integrated or at least partially inserted into the module-receiving groove 20 of the handrail element 12 to at least partially illuminate a surface beneath or adjacent to the handrail assembly 10. More specifically, the lighting module 100 is integrable into the modulereceiving groove 20 defined opposite the upper grasping portion 14 ( / .e., within the ground-facing portion 15) of the handrail element 12 to illuminate a surface beneath the handrail assembly 10. For instance, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the lighting module 100 is configured to at least partially illuminate a portion of the staircase 5 positioned beneath the handrail assembly 10 along the exposed side 18 of the handrail assembly 10, as described in greater detail below. It will be understood that, in other embodiments, the lighting module 100 can be configured within the module-receiving groove 20 of the handrail element 12 to at least partially illuminate any other surface adjacent to the handrail assembly 10.

[0069] As detailed in greater detail below, the lighting module 100 comprises one or more features configured to accurately direct light generated by a light sourceFile No. 018894-0045 11130 of the lighting module 100 onto a desired surface adjacent to the handrail assembly 10, while preventing an illumination of other surfaces.

[0070] Still referring to FIGS. 8 to 14, the lighting module 100 includes a lighting housing 110 defining a housing interior 111 configured to house the light source 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 110 includes a housing base 112 and a pair of housing walls 114a, 114b extending away from the housing base 112 on opposing lateral sides thereof. In certain embodiments, when the lighting module 100 is configured to illuminate a surface beneath the handrail assembly 10, the housing 110 can be installed with the housing walls 114a, 114b extending substantially downwardly from the housing base 112 to define a downward oriented light-emitting aperture 119. It will be understood that, in other embodiments, the housing 110 can adopt any other desirable shape. For instance, in certain embodiments, the housing walls 114a, 114b can further include flared portions 117a, 117b extending outwardly away from the light-emitting aperture 119 and defining a curved surface being substantially congruent with an outer surface of the handrail element 12. In other words, when the lighting module 100 is mounted within the module-receiving groove 20 of the handrail element 12, a substantial continuity can be formed between the flared portions 117a, 117b of the lighting module 100 and the outer surface of the handrail element 12, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. In yet other words, when the lighting module 100 is assembled with or mounted to the handrail element 12, the flared portions 117a, 117b are substantially in register with the outer surface of the handrail element 12.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 10, in certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 can further include end caps 120, 122 provided at longitudinal ends of the housing 110 and further delimiting the housing interior 111. In the embodiment shown, each of the end caps 120, 122 engages the housing base 112 and the housing walls 114a, 114b using one or more fasteners such as screws 124. In other embodiments, the ends caps 120, 122 can be secured to the housing 110 through an interference fit or by using any other fastener, an adhesive, or the like. When the end caps 120, 122 are present, the lower ends - or free ends - of the housing walls 114a, 114b and the end caps 120, 122 collectively define the light-emitting apertureFile No. 018894-0045 12119 (Fig. 11) configured to enable light emitted by the light source 130 to emanate out of the housing 110.

[0072] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the lighting module 100 may further include a handrail-engaging component 113 configured to secure the lighting module 100 to the handrail element 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 110 of the lighting module 100 includes a handrail-engaging component 113 extending upwardly from the housing base 112 of the housing 110 and configured to be received by an interference fit within a module-mounting slot 22 formed in an internal surface of the handrail element 12 at least partially delimiting the module-receiving groove 20. The interference fit between the lighting module 100 and the modulemounting slot 22 (more specifically the interference fit between the handrail-engaging component 113 and the module-mounting slot 22) may at least temporarily retain the lighting module 100 within the module-receiving groove 20 during installation of the handrail assembly 10 ( / .e., to prevent an undesirable descent of the lighting module 100 out of the module-receiving groove 20) prior to the installation of one or more complementary fastening means. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the lighting module 100 includes additional fasteners 102 configured to complement the handrail-engaging component 113 so as to secure the housing 110 to the handrail element or handrail element 12.

[0073] In certain embodiments, such as when the handrail element 12 is extruded to define a groove or channel 20 having a uniform transverse cross- sectional shape, the lighting modules 100 may be mounted to the handrail element 12 in one of multiple possible longitudinal mounting locations. In such embodiments, one or more of the lighting modules 100 may be mounted at any desirable longitudinal position with any desirable longitudinal spacing between adjacent ones of the lighting modules 100. In this manner, the lighting modules 100 of the handrail assembly can, in certain embodiments, be evenly spaced along a longitudinal length of the handrail element 12, or be spaced at varying intervals to illuminate a desired location, such as an exit of a room or an area with an increased likelihood of injury such as a stairway.File No. 018894-0045 13

[0074] The lighting modules 100 can include any light source 130 suitable for projecting light out of the light-emitting aperture 119 of the housing 110 ( / .e., out of a module-receiving groove formed in the ground-facing portion 15 of the handrail element 12). For instance, the light source 130 can include one or more incandescent bulbs, fluorescent bulbs, light emitting diodes, or any other suitable light emitting element. Referring now to FIG. 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the light source 130 includes a PCB board 132 and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 134 installed onto the PCB board 132 in a linear configuration. In certain embodiments, the LEDs 134 can be operated in one of multiple arrangements in accordance with a desired lighting configuration of the lighting module 110. More specifically, in certain embodiments, the LEDs 134 can be grouped into distinct banks of LEDs being individually operable to project distinct arrays of light. For instance, referring to FIG. 14, the LEDs 134 are grouped into first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b, with the first bank of LEDs 134a including the four centermost LEDs 134 and the second bank of LEDs 134b including the four outermost LEDs 134. In such embodiments, each of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b may be independently wired to an electrical source so as to be illuminated individually. In such embodiments, the lighting module 100 can be configured to operate the first bank of LEDs 134a to project a narrow array of light, the second bank of LEDs 134b to project a wide array of light, or both the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b to project a full array of light. It will be understood that, in other embodiments, the LEDs 134 can be positioned on the PCB board 132 in accordance with any other desirable configuration with the LEDs 134 being grouped into any other desirable number of banks of LEDs.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the light source 130 can further include a switch 136 configured to selectively operate one or both of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the switch 136 can be mounted to the PCB board 132 and configured to extend through an end cap aperture 126 defined within one of the end caps 120, 122 (shown in FIG. 10) so as to remain accessible outside of the housing 110 once the lighting module 100 is assembled. In such embodiments, the functionality of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b can be selectable without accessing the housing interior 111. In the illustratedFile No. 018894-0045 14embodiment, the switch 136 includes a dipswitch. In other embodiments, the light source 130 can include a controller, jumpers, or the like to select the functionality of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b. In yet other embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 can include a switch 136 configured to select the functionality of banks of lights for multiple lighting modules 100 of the handrail assembly 10. It will be appreciated however that when each of the lighting modules 100 is provided with a distinct switch 136, the handrail assembly 10 may be configured to provide varying levels of illumination along its length. For instance, in such embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may be configured to provide increased illumination near an exit of a room or an area with an increased likelihood of injury such as a stairway.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b may be wired to be selectively powered in one of a parallel configuration or a series configuration. More specifically, in certain embodiments, the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b may be selectively configured, via for instance the switch 136, in a series configuration ( / .e., with the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b being connected along a single electrical path) to provide the same electrical current across both of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b, or in a parallel configuration ( / .e., with the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b being connected along multiple paths) to provide equal voltage across both of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b. It will be appreciated that the parallel configuration of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b may enable the individual powering of each of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b as described above. Alternatively, the series configuration of the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b may provide a light source 130 which draws a lower amperage thereby permitting a handrail assembly 10 including a greater number of lighting modules 100. As will be understood by the person of skill in the art, configuring the first and second banks of LEDs 134a, 134b in series may enable a light module 100 operating at a given wattage to receive a higher input voltage, thereby resulting in a lower operating current. The reduced current may enable the deployment of a greater number of lighting modules 100 within the handrail assembly 10 connected to an electrical wire of a given gauge, without exceeding current-carrying limitations.File No. 018894-0045 15

[0077] Referring now to FIGS. 8 to 12, in certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 can include a lens 119a configured to preclude access across the lightemitting aperture 119 of the housing 110 and / or to environmentally seal the lightemitting interior of the lighting module 100 (for instance to seal the housing 111 ). In particular, the lens 119a can provide protection for the light source by preventing a user from inserting a finger or the like into the housing interior 111 when grasping the handrail assembly 10. In certain embodiments, the lens 119a can further prevent insects or contaminants (including dust and fluids) from entering the light-emitting interior or housing interior 111. The lens 119a can be mountable to one or more of the housing walls 114a, 114b and the end caps 120, 122. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the lens 119a is removably mounted within lens recesses 115 (shown in FIGS. 13 and 14) defined within the housing walls 114a, 114b. In other embodiments, the lens 119a can be secured to one or more of the housing walls 114a, 114 and the end caps 120, 122 using a fastener, an adhesive, or the like. The lens 119a can be made of a transparent or semi-transparent material so as to enable light emitted by the light source 130 to pass across the light-emitting aperture 119 without any appreciable scattering of light. For instance, the lens 119a can be made of glass, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, Vycor, sapphire, or the like. In certain embodiments, the lens 119a may be formed from a tinted material or may include a tinted coating, each configured to modify the spectral characteristics of light emitted by the light source 130 so as to produce a desired lighting tint in the output of the lighting module 100. In certain embodiments, the lens 119a can be curved outwardly from the housing interior 111. More specifically, the lens 119a can be bent into a curved shape when mounted to the housing walls 114a, 114b or molded in a curved shape.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 can be configured to extend at an angle with respect to a horizontal axis. For instance, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the handrail assembly 10 is configured to extend along the stairway 5 in an inclined configuration in accordance with an angle of the stairway 5 to provide support at a substantially uniform height above the steps 6 of the stairway 5. In certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 can be configured to extend downwardly in the inclined configuration at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 50File No. 018894-0045 16degrees with respect to a horizontal axis from a top end 11 a to a lower end 11 b of the handrail assembly 10. In such embodiments, it will be appreciated that the ground-facing portion 15 of the handrail element 12 may be visible when viewing the handrail assembly 10 from a position adjacent to the handrail assembly 10 and above the lower 11 b end of the handrail assembly 10. For instance, when the handrail assembly 10 is installed within a room having a stacked seating arrangement (such as, for example, in a theater or an auditorium), the ground-facing portion 15 of the handrail element 12 may be visible when viewed from a seating position adjacent to the handrail assembly 10 and above the lower end 11 b of the handrail assembly 10. Referring now to FIG. 15, a perspective side view of the handrail element 12 is shown extending downwardly at an angle from a perspective adjacent to the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12. From this perspective, the light source 130 may be visible by a viewer viewing the handrail element 12. It may be appreciated that, in such embodiments, the light source 130 may be in the line of sight of a viewer and may project light towards the viewpoint (such as the seating position adjacent to the handrail assembly 10) thereby creating a possible visual distraction.

[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 8 to 10, in certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 can further include one or more light restricting modules 140 configured to at least partially obstruct the light source 130 of the lighting module 100 when viewing the lighting module 100 from a side perspective when the handrail assembly 100 extends at an angle relative to a horizontal axis. In the embodiment shown, each of the light restricting modules 140 includes a module body 141 having a substantially prismatic shape. The module body 141 defines a module face 142, opposite transverse side faces and opposite longitudinal side faces 145 extending away from the module face 142. In certain embodiments, the module body 141 can have a width being substantially equal to a width of the light-emitting aperture 119 of the housing 110 and a length being less than a length of the light-emitting aperture 119 so as to define a light-emitting gap on one or both sides of the module body 141. In certain embodiments, the module face 142 may be curved outwardly and free of sharp angles to prevent injury to a user grasping the handrail assembly 10.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the light restricting modules 140 are secured to the housing 110 at a lower or distal portion of the housing walls 114a,File No. 018894-0045 17114b (considered relatively to the light source 130). In certain embodiments, the module body 141 can further define ridges 146a that project from each of the opposite longitudinal side faces 145 of the module body 141 and extend along a longitudinal direction of the module body 141. The ridges 146a can be shaped and dimensioned to be received within grooves 146b defined in the housing walls 114a, 114b of the housing 110 (shown in FIG. 14). In certain embodiments, one or more of the ridges 146a may be configured as a clip configured to be selectively depressed to enable a release of the corresponding light restricting module 140 from the housing 110. In such embodiments, the ridges 146a can be resilient clips or spring-loaded clips. In certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 can further include an indexing guide 149 attachable to one of the housing walls 114a, 114b and configured to mountingly receive the light restricting modules 140 in one or more predetermined positions. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the indexing guide 149 defines four possible predetermined positions for the mounting of a given one of the light restricting modules 140. In such embodiments, the indexing guide 149 can define one or more of the grooves 146b. It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the light restricting modules 140 can be secured to the housing 110 using one or more fasteners, an adhesive, or the like.

[0081] With reference to FIG. 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the lighting module 100 includes first and second light restricting modules 140a, 140b mounted to the housing 110 within the indexing guide 149 in an alternating configuration to define first and second light-emitting gaps or interspaces 147, 148. In particular, the first and second light restricting modules 140a, 140b are longitudinally spaced apart to define a first interspace 147 therebetween. The second light restricting module 140b further defines a second interspace 148 opposite the first interspace 147 and extending between the second light restricting module 140b and an adjacent one of the end caps 120, 122. In such embodiments, the light source 130 is configured to project light out of the first and second interspaces 147, 148. In other embodiments, the first and second light restricting modules 140a, 140b can be mounted to the housing 110 and the indexing guide 149 in the outermost predetermined positions in a spaced configuration to define a single interspace extending therebetween ( / .e., with no additional interspace extending between one of the first and secondFile No. 018894-0045 18interspaces 147, 148 and an adjacent one of the end caps 120, 122). It will be understood that, in other embodiments, the lighting module 100 can include an indexing guide 149 defining predetermined positions for a greater number of light restricting modules 140 and thus any other number of interspaces. In certain embodiments, the interspaces between adjacent ones of the light restricting modules 140 may be sized to prevent insertion of a finger therein when the handrail 10 is being grasped, and more particularly to prevent access to the lens 119a.

[0082] In certain embodiments, when one or more of the LEDs 134 are grouped into distinct banks of LEDs being individually operable to project distinct arrays of light, the light source 130 may be configured to illuminate a bank of LEDs being in an alignment with an interspace to provide an unobstructed projection of light from the light-emitting aperture 119 of the lighting module 100. Providing an unobstructed projection of light from the light-emitting aperture 119 of the lighting module 100 may provide a direct illumination of the surface beneath the handrail assembly 10. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the light source 130 may be configured to illuminate a bank of LEDs being in an alignment with one or more of the light restricting modules 140 to obstruct the projection of light from the light-emitting aperture 119 of the lighting module 100 so as to provide a more diffuse lighting of the surface beneath the handrail assembly 10.

[0083] Referring now to FIG. 16, a perspective side view of the handrail element 12 is shown extending downwardly at an angle and in which the lighting module 100 includes the first and second light restricting modules 140a, 140b. As shown, each of the light restricting modules 140 is dimensioned to obstruct the light source 130 when viewing the handrail element 12 from the exposed side 18 thereof. More specifically, a height of the transverse side faces 144 of the module body 141 may be greater than a vertical dimension of the first and second interspaces 147, 148. The height of the side faces 144 of the module body 141 may therefore be selected in accordance with a desired inclination of the handrail assembly 10 and a size of the first and second interspaces 147, 148. For instance, in other embodiments, it may be desirable to form a wider interspace between the light restricting modules 140 to provide a broader array of light from the light source 130. In such embodiments, the height of the side faces 144 of the module body 141 may be greater to extend overFile No. 018894-0045 19a substantial portion or an entirety of a vertical component of the interspace to more adequately conceal the light source 130.

[0084] Referring now to FIG. 17, in certain embodiments, the light source 130 can be mounted within the housing 110 in a tilted configuration relative to a median plane 13 of the handrail element 12 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) to emit light towards a given side of the handrail assembly 10. The median plane 13 of the handrail element 12 is understood as the plane comprising the longitudinal direction of the handrail element 12 and intersecting a center thereof. In some embodiments, the median plane 13 forms a plane of symmetry of a cross-section of the handrail element. In other words, the median plane 13 is a vertical plane passing through a center of the handrail element 12 and bisecting the handrail element 12 into two halves. In certain embodiments, when the handrail assembly 10 is configured to be mounted to a vertical structure, the light source 130 can be mounted within the housing 110 in a tilted configuration to project light toward the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12, ( / .e., away from the wall-facing side 16 and the vertical structure). It may be appreciated that, in such embodiments, mounting the light source 130 in the tilted configuration within the housing 110 may prevent or limit a projection of light onto the vertical structure adjacent to the handrail assembly 10 and promote a projection of light onto a ground surface adjacent to the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12. For instance, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the light source 130 is mounted within the housing 110 in the tilted configuration relative to the median plane 13 of the handrail element 12 to promote a projection of light onto the stairway 5 adjacent to the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12 and to prevent or limit a projection of light onto the wall 2.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the housing base 112 includes a first portion 112a extending upwardly at an angle away from the wall-facing side 16 of the handrail element 12, and a second portion 112b extending substantially horizontally towards the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12. In such embodiments, the first portion 112a of the housing base 112 can be configured to mountingly receive the PCB board 132 of the light source 130 to maintain the light source 130 in the tilted configuration relative to the median plane 13 of the handrail element when the lighting module 100 is inserted into the module-receiving grooveFile No. 018894-0045 20thereof. It will be understood that, in other embodiments, the housing 110 can have any other desirable shape and the light source 130 can be mounted to any other portion of the housing 110 (or to any other portion of the inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior 111 of the lighting module 100) to achieve the tilted configuration of the light source 130.

[0086] In certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may be mounted to one or more posts or the like as a free-standing structure including, for instance, a central handrail extending along a walkway without being adjacent to a wall or other vertical structure. In such embodiments, the handrail element 12 may still include the light source 130 in a tilted configuration to promote a projection of light towards a single side of the handrail assembly 10, such as the exposed side 18 of the handrail element 12, and to prevent or limit a projection of light towards the opposite side ( / .e., the wall-facing side 16 of the handrail element 12). Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may be configured to illuminate both sides thereof. More particularly, the handrail assembly 10 may include a first set of lighting modules 100 configured to project light toward to a first side of the handrail element 12 (for instance, the exposed side 18), and a second set of lighting modules 100 configured to project light toward to a second side of the handrail element 12 (for instance, the wall-facing side 16). It will be appreciated that, in such embodiments, the first and second sets of lighting modules 100 may be arranged in an alternating configuration or in any other suitable manner to provide the desired illumination to one or more surfaces adjacent to the handrail assembly 10.Still referring to FIG. 17, in certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 can include features configured to prevent or limit the projection of indirect light rays ( / .e., light rays that have been reflected on an interior surface of the housing 110) from the lightemitting aperture 119 of the housing 110. Such features may further help to control the projection of light onto the surface beneath the handrail assembly 10 and prevent the projection of light onto an undesirable surface, such as the wall 2 adjacent to the handrail assembly 10. In the embodiment shown, the housing 110 includes one or more light-deflecting baffles 116 protruding from the inner surface 118 delimiting the light-emitting interior 111 and extending therewithin between the light source 130 and the light-emitting aperture 119. For instance, the light-deflecting baffles 116 areFile No. 018894-0045 21formed across an inner surface 118 of the housing 110. In particular, the lightdeflecting baffles 116 may be formed across the interior surface 118 of the housing 118 between the light source 130 and the light-emitting aperture 119 such that the light source 130 is recessed (in a substantially vertical direction, in the embodiment shown) relative to the light-deflecting baffles 116. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the light deflecting baffles 116 are formed along the housing walls 114a, 114b and at least partially along the housing base 112 of the housing 110. In other embodiments, the light-deflecting baffles 116 can be further formed along an interior surface of one or more of the end caps 120, 122 and the light-restricting modules 140. The light-deflecting baffles 116 are spaced apart along the housing interior 111 of the housing 110 and function to diffuse and trap light emanating from the light source 130 within the housing 110 and that may, absent the presence of the lightdeflecting baffles 116, reflect off the interior surface 118 of the housing 100 and out of the light-emitting aperture 119. In this manner, each of the light-deflecting baffles 116 can be sized and shaped such that all incident rays of light projected by the light source 130 are reflected to a point within the housing interior 111 , as opposed to being reflected out of the light-emitting aperture 119. Similarly, in certain embodiments, each of the light-deflecting baffles 116 can further be sized and shaped such that all incident rays of light reflected from another one of the lightdeflecting baffles 116 are similarly reflected to a point within the housing interior 111. Referring now to the schematic of FIG. 17, an exemplary light beam 42 is illustrated projected from the light source 130 and contacting the interior surface 118 of the housing 110 to be subsequently diffused within the housing 110 without exiting the light-emitting aperture 119. The light-deflecting baffles 116 thus serve to ensure that only light beams projected from the light source 130 directly toward the light-emitting aperture 119 are emitted from the lighting module 100. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, one or more of the light-deflecting baffles 116 may further serve as a mechanical feature of the lighting module 100 and may, for instance, define a portion of the lens recesses 115, a fastener-receiving recess, or any other portion of the lighting module 100.

[0087] In certain embodiments, one or more of the light-deflecting baffles 116 can extend along the longitudinal axis of the housing 110 of the lighting module 100.File No. 018894-0045 22For instance, in certain embodiments, one or more of the light-deflecting baffles 116 can extend along a longitudinal length of the housing 110. More specifically, one or more of the light-deflecting baffles 116 extend an entire longitudinal length of the corresponding housing base 112 orhousing walls 114a, 114b. In other embodiments, the light-deflecting baffles 116 can extend along a portion of the housing 110, with different longitudinal portions of the housing 110 having varying configurations of the light-deflecting baffles 116 in accordance with a desired arrangement of the light source 130.

[0088] In certain embodiment, the light-deflecting baffles 116 protrude inwardly from the inner surface 118 at least about 0.5 mm and preferably at least about 1 mm, and have a transverse width that is at least about 0.5 mm wide and preferably at least about 1 mm wide. The spacing of the light-deflecting baffles 116 is selected to be at least about 0.5 mm and preferably at least about 0.3 mm between an upper surface of one light-deflecting baffle 116 and a lower surface of an adjacent light-deflecting baffle 116. In certain embodiments, the light-deflecting baffles 116 can be angled relative to the generally planar interior surface 118 of the housing 110 and may be angled at least about 90 degrees and optionally, for example, about 80 degrees.

[0089] In certain embodiments, the interior surface 118 of the housing 110 can further include a coating configured to improve the light absorbing properties of the housing 110. For instance, in certain embodiments, the interior surface 118 can be coated in a light absorbing paint, including a black acrylic paint, or in a light absorbing foil. The light absorbing coating may reduce the number of reflections of the light beams projected from the light source 130, thereby further improving the light absorbing properties of the light-deflecting baffles 116.

[0090] The lighting module 100 can thus provide a structured light trap that is incorporated as part of the housing 110 during the fabrication of the housing 110, such as during an extrusion process. In other embodiments, the light trap comprised of the light deflecting baffles 116 may be molded of a plastic material or may be cast or machined of a metallic material or the like and secured to the interior surface 118 of the housing 110.File No. 018894-0045 23

[0091] In certain embodiments, the lighting modules 100 of the handrail assembly 10 may be wired in sequence ( / .e., daisy chained) with electrical wiring extending between adjacent ones of the lighting modules through the channel 20 of the handrail element 10. In certain embodiments, the electrical wiring may extend across one or more of the mounting brackets 30 configured to secure the handrail assembly 10 to the wall 2 so as to provide electrical power to the handrail assembly 10.

[0092] Referring now to FIG. 6, in certain embodiments, the handrail assembly 10 may include one or more concealment panes 40 mountable to the handrail element 12 and shaped and dimensioned to extend along the module-receiving groove or channel 20 between adjacent ones of the lighting modules 100. The concealment panes 40 may be curved outwardly with a radius of curvature similar to a radius of curvature of the handrail element 12 to provide a continuous gripping surface along the lower portion 15 of the handrail element 12. In certain embodiments, the concealment panes 40 may be configured to environmentally seal the portions of the channel 20 extending between adjacent ones of the lighting modules 100.

[0093] While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and / or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to be illustrative and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.

[0094] and a deflecting baffle 116 protruding from an interior surface delimiting the module-receiving groove 20 to deflect light emitted by the light source 130. In certain embodiments, the lighting module 100 defines a light-emitting interior 111 opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module 100, the light source 130 being arranged within the light-emitting interior 111. In such embodiments, the light-deflecting baffle 116 protrudes from an inner surfaceFile No. 018894-0045 24delimiting the light-emitting interior 111 and extends therewithin between the light source 130 and the light-emitting aperture.File No. 018894-0045 25

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A handrail assembly comprising: a handrail element having a longitudinal axis, a module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element; and a lighting module including a housing at least partially insertable into the module-receiving groove, the housing defining a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module, and a light source arranged within the light-emitting interior; wherein the lighting module further comprises one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture.

2. The handrail assembly of claim 1 , wherein the one or more light deflecting baffles are sized and shaped to reflect a light beam generated by the light source within the light-emitting interior.

3. The handrail assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more light deflecting baffles extend over a longitudinal length of the housing.

4. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the housing and the one or more light deflecting baffles form a unitary structure.

5. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and the one or more light deflecting baffles are coated in a light absorbing coating.

6. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the one or more light deflecting baffles protrudes inwardly into the lightemitting interior at least about 0.5 mm.File No. 018894-0045 267. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each of the one or more light deflecting baffles protrudes inwardly into the lightemitting interior at least about 1 mm.

8. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein adjacent ones of the one or more light-deflecting baffles are laterally spaced apart at least about 0.3 mm.

9. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein adjacent ones of the one or more light-deflecting baffles are laterally spaced apart at least about 0.5 mm.

10. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the handrail element incudes a wall-facing side and an exposed side opposite the wallfacing side, the light source being mounted to the inner surface of the housing in a tilted configuration relative to a median plane of the handrail element to project light away from the wall-facing side of the handrail element.11 . The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising one or more light restricting modules configured to be removably secured to the lighting module to at least partially obstruct the light source.

12. The handrail assembly of claim 11 , wherein each of the one or might light restricting modules comprises a module body having a width substantially corresponding to a width of the light-emitting aperture and a length being less than a length of the light-emitting aperture to define a light-emitting gap adjacent to the corresponding light restricting module when the handrail assembly is assembled.

13. The handrail assembly of claim 12, wherein, when the handrail element is mounted in an inclined configuration, the module body is sized such that a height of the module body corresponds substantially to a verticalFile No. 018894-0045 27dimension of the light-emitting gap adjacent to the corresponding light restricting module.

14. The handrail assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the module body comprises a ridge being shaped and dimensioned to be insertable within a groove defined in the housing of the light module to removably secure the one or more light restricting modules to the housing.

15. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the lighting module includes an indexing guide defining one or more predetermined mounting positions of the light restricting modules within the light-emitting interior.

16. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the light source comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs), the LEDs being grouped into banks of LEDs configured to be individually operable.

17. The handrail assembly of claim 16, wherein the light source is configured to selectively operate any one of a first bank of LEDs to project a narrow array of light, a second bank of LEDs to project a wide array of light, and the first and second banks of LEDs to project a full array of light.

18. The handrail of claim 16, wherein a first bank of LEDs and a second bank of LEDs of the banks of LEDs are wired to be selectively powered in one of a parallel configuration or a series configuration.

19. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a modulemounting slot is formed in an internal surface delimiting the modulereceiving groove, and wherein the lighting module comprises a handrailengaging member receivable by an interference fit within the modulemounting slot.

20. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the handrail element is extruded to define a uniform cross-sectional profile of the module-receiving groove.File No. 018894-0045 2821. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the lighting module is insertable into the module-receiving groove in one of multiple longitudinal mounting locations.

22. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the handrail assembly comprises multiple lighting modules, the lighting modules being evenly spaced apart within the module-receiving groove when the handrail assembly is assembled.

23. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the handrail assembly comprises multiple lighting modules, the lighting modules being spaced at varying intervals within the module-receiving groove when the handrail assembly is assembled to illuminate a given area of a surface adjacent to the handrail assembly.

24. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the housing includes flared portions extending outwardly away from the light-emitting aperture, the flared portions defining a curved surface being substantially congruent with an outer surface of the handrail element when the handrail assembly is assembled.

25. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the lighting module further comprises a lens mountable to the housing, the lens being configured to preclude access across the light-emitting aperture.

26. The handrail assembly of claim 25, wherein the lens is made of one of glass, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, Vycor, or sapphire.

27. The handrail assembly of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the modulereceiving groove extends longitudinally along a length of the handrail element.

28. A handrail assembly configured to be mounted to or adjacent to a wall, the handrail assembly comprising:File No. 018894-0045 29a handrail element having a longitudinal axis and comprising a wallfacing side and an exposed side opposite the wall-facing side, a module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element; and a lighting module at least partially insertable within the modulereceiving groove, the lighting module defining a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the lighting module, and a light source mounted to an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior in a tilted configuration relative to a median plane of the handrail element to project light away from the wall-facing side of the handrail element.

29. The handrail assembly of claim 28, wherein the lighting module comprises one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from the inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture.

30. The handrail assembly of claim 28 or 29, further including one or more features as defined in any one of claims 2 to 27.31 . A handrail lighting module for a handrail element having a longitudinal axis, a longitudinal module-receiving groove being formed in a ground-facing portion of the handrail element, wherein the handrail lighting module is at least partially insertable into the module-receiving groove and defines a light-emitting interior opening into a light-emitting aperture formed in an outer surface of the handrail lighting module, the handrail lighting module comprising: a light source arranged within the light-emitting interior and configured to emit light; and one or more light deflecting baffles protruding from an inner surface delimiting the light-emitting interior and extending therewithin between the light source and the light-emitting aperture, said one orFile No. 018894-0045 30more light deflecting baffles being shaped and dimensioned to deflect light emitted by the light source.File No. 018894-0045 31

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