A mounting clip for a lighting device in an agricultural environment

Abstract

The invention provides A mounting clip (100) for mounting a lighting device (200) to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes (300), wherein the mounting clip comprises: a base portion (13) extending along a central axis (3) between a first end plane (1) and a second end plane (2), the central axis being arranged within a central plane (4), the first and second end planes being perpendicular to the central plane; a passage (14) extending from the first end plane to the second end plane, the passage comprising an upper passage (141) configured to receive a first tube of the pair of tubes and a lower passage (142) configured to receive a second tube of the pair of tubes; a first leg (11) coupled to the base portion and arranged at a first side of the central plane; a second leg (12) coupled to the base portion and arranged at a second side of the central plane opposite the first side; wherein the first leg and the second leg extend towards a bottom plane (7), each leg contouring at least part of the upper passage (141) and at least part of the lower passage (142); wherein the bottom plane (7) is perpendicular to the central plane (4) and offset from the central axis (3), the lower passage (142) being situated closer to the bottom plane (7) than the upper passage (141); wherein the first leg (11) comprises a first connector (15) configured to releasably connect the first leg to the lighting device (200), and the second leg (12) comprises a second connector (16) configured to releasably connect the second leg to the lighting device (200).

Description

[0001] 2024PF80340

[0002] 1

[0003] A MOUNTING CLIP FOR A LIGHTING DEVICE IN AN AGRICULTURAL

[0004] ENVIRONMENT

[0005] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The invention relates to a mounting clip for mounting a lighting device to a pair of tubes. The invention further relates to a corresponding system, and a method of mounting a lighting device to a pair of tubes.

[0007] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Broiler chickens are grown for their meat. Broiler production has become more industrialized in modem communities, so as to achieve economically viable production of food at relatively low-price levels. For example, a newly hatched chick weighing 40 grams is grown to a bird weighing 5 kilograms within about eight weeks.

[0009] Similar to other chicken, broiler chickens are typically grown in artificial lighting conditions, that for example entrains a circadian rhythm of the birds (i.e. periods of light and periods of dark within a 24-hour cycle). During the periods of light the birds feed and drink. During the periods of dark the birds rest and digest.

[0010] Drinking water at waterlines is therefore relevant for growth. During the first 18 days of rearing broiler chicken (i.e. the brood phase), the waterlines are therefore illuminated with ceiling lights to attract the broilers to the water line, thereby also learning the broiler chicken to drink from the waterline nipples. Such ceiling lights appear to be an expensive option that is spilling too much light for the purpose of only illuminating the waterline. It is therefore desired to illuminate the waterline and (drinking) nipples locally, for example with multiple lights closer to the waterline and (drinking) nipples.

[0011] However, this not so straightforward. Waterlines are comprised of 12 to 16 foot segments and are interconnected in lengths up to 500 feet within the poultry farm. The waterlines typically consist of a round and / or square profile plastic piping to carry the water to the flock of broilers, and are typically mounted under various types of stiffener or support beams (e.g. a steel pipe, or aluminum profile). Typically, a roost wire is also present above the support beam to prevent poultry from roosting on the support beam and / or waterline. 2024PF80340

[0012] 2

[0013] Therefore, there is clear need for easy-to-install and cost-effective lighting solutions to illuminate the waterline and / or the drinking nipples locally within an agricultural environment, which solutions can universally cope with the complexity of various the types of waterlines and the various types of stiffener beams available in the market, and which solutions can be installed with a roost wire present above such a stiffener beam and / or waterline.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention is based on trials that shows a 15% increase in water intake in the first three days when lighting is mounted under the waterline and the corresponding support beam. Since an increase in water intake renders earlier weight gain and lower mortality of broiler chicken, the productivity of broiler farming as such is improved as well.

[0016] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved mounting clip and lighting system, which at least alleviates the problems and disadvantages mentioned above, and provides a new concept of illuminating a poultry farm, especially with lighting devices mounted under the waterline and support beams.

[0017] Thereto, the invention provides a mounting clip (suitable) for mounting a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes, wherein the mounting clip comprises: a base portion extending along a central axis between a first end plane and a second end plane, wherein the central axis is arranged within a central plane, wherein the first end plane and the second end plane are perpendicular to the central plane; a passage extending from the first end plane to the second end plane, wherein the passage comprises an upper passage configured to receive a first tube of said pair of tubes and a lower passage configured to receive a second tube of said pair of tubes; a first leg coupled to the base portion and arranged at a first side of the central plane; a second leg coupled to the base portion and arranged at a second side of the central plane opposite to the first side; wherein the first leg and the second leg extend towards a bottom plane and contour at least part of the upper passage and at least part of the lower passage; wherein the bottom plane is perpendicular to the central plane and offset from the central axis, wherein the lower passage is closer to the bottom plane than the upper passage; wherein the first leg comprises a first connector configured to releasably connect the first leg to the lighting device, and wherein the second leg comprises a second connector configured to releasably connect the second leg to the lighting device. 2024PF80340

[0018] 3

[0019] Hence, according to the invention, the first leg and the second leg extend towards a bottom plane, wherein the first leg contours at least part of the upper passage and at least part of the lower passage, wherein the second leg contours at least part of the upper passage and at least part of the lower passage.

[0020] Hence, the present invention provides a mounting clip configured to releasably mount a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes. Said pair of tubes may for example be a waterline and corresponding support beam within an agricultural environment.

[0021] The mounting clip comprises a passage for receiving the pair of tubes. Said passage may alternatively be phrased as channel, aperture, or gap. The passage comprises (or: consists of) an upper passage and a lower passage. In an embodiment, the upper passage is in connection with the lower passage. The mounting clip also comprises two legs (i.e. the first leg and the second leg) connected to a base portion. Both legs extend towards a bottom plane and contour at least part of the upper passage and at least part of the lower passage. The first tube of said pair of tubes passes through the upper passage of the mounting clip, when in mounted position. The second tube of said pair of tubes passes through the lower passage of the mounting clip, when in mounted position. This construction enables the mounting clip to be mounted snug to said pair of tubes, and provides a solid support for a lighting device that is releasably connected (at the side of the bottom plane) to the first connector of the first leg and the second connector of the second leg.

[0022] Therefore, the present invention provides a mounting clip that is easy to install onto existing waterline infrastructure in an agricultural environment (e.g. a broiler farm). The mounting clip is also fast to install, universally applicable, and easy to adjust, thereby reducing the install time of multiple lighting devices on waterlines in an agricultural environment, which can be dozens of lighting devices per waterline.

[0023] As a result of such advantages, a farmer is facilitated in creating the desired light distribution and / or illumination pattern within the agricultural environment, and particularly below the waterline. Eventually, this promotes animal health and wellbeing, while maintaining an optimized production efficiency.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first leg, the second leg, and / or the base portion may comprise a material thickness, wherein said material thickness is at least 1 millimeter and at most 5 millimeter, and is preferably 2 millimeter. 2024PF80340

[0025] 4

[0026] In an embodiment, the bottom plane is an offset distance offset from the central axis, wherein the offset distance is between 50 and 100 millimeters. Hence, the mounting clip may have a height (dimension) between 50 and 100 millimeters.

[0027] In an embodiment, a width of the upper passage and / or a width of the lower passage is at most 30 millimeters, wherein the width is defined perpendicular to the central axis. In an embodiment, the first passage is smaller than the second passage.

[0028] In an embodiment, the mounting clip comprises a mounting clip material, wherein the mounting clip material comprises at least one of a polymer or a metal, for example one of, copper, aluminium, steel, stainless steel, ABS, Nylon, Delrin, Polycarbonate (PC), PET, PVC, Polyamide (PA), PEN, Acrylic, Polyurethane (PU).

[0029] In an embodiment, the first leg and the second leg each comprise: a bent upper section contouring at least part of the upper passage, a bent lower section contouring at least part of the lower passage, and an intermediate section connecting the bent upper section to the bent lower section, wherein the intermediate section is depressed towards the central plane.

[0030] In a related embodiment, the intermediate section of the first leg comprises a first rib configured to provide stiffness; AND / OR wherein the intermediate section of the second leg comprises a second rib configured to provide stiffness. In a related embodiment, the first rib and / or the second rib extends at least partially into the bent upper section and / or at least partially into the bent lower section.

[0031] In an embodiment, the base portion comprises a center point arranged on the central axis and within a middle plane parallel to the first end plane and the second end plane; wherein the first leg is arranged between the first end plane and the middle plane, wherein the second leg is arranged between the second end plane and the middle plane. In a related embodiment, the center point is equidistant to the first end plane and the second end plane.

[0032] In an embodiment, the mounting clip comprises a leg distance between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the leg distance is defined as the largest distance between the first leg and the second leg in the central plane and in the direction of the central axis. In a related embodiment, the leg distance is between 20 and 35 millimeters, preferably 27 millimeters. Such leg distances are suitable for receiving three-quarter inch steel pipe supporting the waterline.

[0033] In an embodiment, the mounting clip comprises a leg passage between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the leg passage at least partially overlaps with the passage and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane and the second end plane; wherein the 2024PF80340

[0034] 5 first leg comprises a first slant edge facing in the direction of the second end plane and sloping towards the central axis, wherein a projection of the first slant edge in the central plane is at a first slant angle with respect to the central axis, wherein the first slant angle is between 35 and 55 degrees; AND / OR wherein the second leg comprises a second slant edge facing in the direction of the first end plane and sloping towards the central axis, wherein a projection of the second slant edge in the central plane is at a second slant angle with respect to the central axis, wherein the second slant angle is between 35 and 55 degrees; wherein the first slant edge and / or the second slant edge is configured, when the mounting clip is moved with over the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the leg passage and abuts the first tube of the pair of tubes, to cause the mounting clip to rotate and receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the passage.

[0035] In an embodiment, wherein the first connector comprises a first hook in plane with the bottom surface and a first barb protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface, wherein the first connector is configured to snap fit to a corresponding hook of the lighting device; wherein the second connector comprises a second hook in plane with the bottom surface and a second barb protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface, wherein the second connector is configured to snap fit to a corresponding hook of the lighting device.

[0036] In aspects, the upper passage comprises, or extends along, an upper central axis, wherein the upper central axis extends from the first end plane and the second end plane, wherein the upper central axis is perpendicular to the first end plane and the second end plane. Similarly, the lower passage comprises, or extends along, a lower central axis, wherein the lower central axis extends from the first end plane and the second end plane, wherein the lower central axis is perpendicular to the first end plane and the second end plane. The upper central axis is thereby parallel to the lower central axis. Moreover, the upper central axis is closer to the central axis than the lower central axis.

[0037] In aspects, the mounting clip material is translucent. In aspects, the mounting clip material is transparent. Such aspects may be advantageous to maintain visibility on the parallel tubes.

[0038] In aspects, the first leg and / or the second leg may comprise a visual indicator configured to indicate a turning direction for releasing of the mounting clip. Such visual indicator may e.g. be a depression or protrusion on the respective leg, or a sticker, an etched, a sketched, or a painted indicator. 2024PF80340

[0039] 6

[0040] In aspects, the mounting clip may comprise a surface texture comprising a plurality of protrusions configured to prevent at least one animal to position itself onto said mounting clip. For example, said mounting clip may comprise a plurality of spikes.

[0041] In examples, throughout the application, the mounting clip may also be suited to be mounted around only one of the pair of tubes.

[0042] It is further an object of the invention to provide an improved method, which at least alleviates the problems and disadvantages mentioned above. Thereto, the invention provides a method of mounting a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes, with the use of a mounting clip according to the invention, wherein the mounting clip comprises a passage between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the leg passage at least partially overlaps with the passage and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane and the second end plane, wherein the method comprises: positioning the mounting clip above a first tube of the pair of tubes with the centerline of the mounting clip substantially perpendicular to the first tube of the pair of tubes; moving the mounting clip via the leg passage in a direction from the first tube to the second tube; rotating the mounting clip to cause the mounting clip to receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the passage. Thereby, advantages and / or embodiments applying to the mounting clip according to the invention may mutatis mutandis apply to said method according to the invention.

[0043] It is further an object of the invention to provide an improved system, which at least alleviates the problems and disadvantages mentioned above. Thereto, the invention provides a system comprising the mounting clip according to claim 1, a lighting device, and a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes, wherein the mounting clip is configured to releasably connect the lighting device to the pair of tubes. Thereby, advantages and / or embodiments applying to the mounting clip according to the invention may mutatis mutandis apply to said system according to the invention.

[0044] In an embodiment, a first tube of the pair of tubes is a support beam, wherein the second tube of the pair of tubes is a waterline, wherein the lighting device is suitable for animal lighting.

[0045] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The invention will now be further elucidated by means of the schematic nonlimiting drawings: 2024PF80340

[0047] 7

[0048] Fig. 1 depicts schematically a perspective view of an embodiment of a mounting clip according to the invention;

[0049] Fig. 2 depicts schematically a sideview of the embodiment of the mounting clip of figure 1 ;

[0050] Fig. 3 depicts schematically a front view of the embodiment of the mounting clip of figure 1 ;

[0051] Fig. 4 depicts schematically a bottom view of the embodiment of the mounting clip of figure 1 ;

[0052] Fig. 5 depicts schematically a system according to the invention;

[0053] Fig. 6 depicts schematically an embodiment of method according to the invention;

[0054] Fig. 7 depicts schematically an optional method step of the method according to the invention;

[0055] Fig. 8 depicts schematically a 3D render of an assembly of the mounting clip according to the invention, a pair of tubes, and a lighting device.

[0056] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0057] Figure 1 depicts schematically, by non-limiting example, a perspective view of an embodiment of a mounting clip 100 according to the invention. Figure 2 depicts a side view of said mounting clip 100. Figure 3 depicts a front view of said mounting clip 100. Figure 4 depicts a bottom view of said mounting clip 100.

[0058] Referring to figures 1 to 4, the mounting clip 100 is arranged for mounting a lighting device (not depicted) to a pair of tubes (not depicted). Here, the lighting device is suitable for animal lighting. The pair of tubes are adjacent and substantially parallel. For example, in the present example, the pair of tubes are a waterline (within e.g. poultry barn) and a support beam for supporting said waterline. In some further examples, a shocker wire (not depicted) may be present above the support beam. Here, the (effective) diameter of the waterline and the support beam are the same, i.e. equal.

[0059] Here, the pair of tubes are cylindrical tubes. Alternatively, the waterline and the support beam may have a variety of alternative shapes. For example, the support beam may be a rectangular or triangular beam, while the waterline is cylindrical. Furthermore, in alternative examples, the (effective) diameter of the waterline may be larger than the support beam. 2024PF80340

[0060] 8

[0061] Referring to figures 1 to 4, the mounting clip comprises a base portion 13, a first leg 11 coupled to the base portion 13, a second leg 12 coupled to the base portion 13, and a passage 14. The passage 14 may alternatively be phrased as a channel, an opening, or an aperture. The passage 14 passes through the mounting clip, and is thereby part of its design. In other words, the base portion, the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 may define the passage, or contour the passage 14, or delimit at least part of the passage.

[0062] The base portion, the first leg and the second leg may be monolithic, such as for example a single injected moulded mounting clip. The base portion is therefore considered only as the ‘top’ part of the mounting clip, i.e. the section where the first leg and the second leg join together (and form the base portion). The base portion may be curved, or may be at least partly curved, and in alternative examples may be planar.

[0063] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, the base portion 13 extends along a central axis 3 between a first end plane 1 and a second end plane 2. The central axis 3 is thereby arranged within a central plane 4. The first end plane 1 and the second end plane 2 are perpendicular to the central plane 4. The base portion 13 further comprises a center point 8 arranged on the central axis 3 and within a middle plane 9 parallel to the first end plane 1 and the second end plane 2. The center point 8 may be a reference point only. Albeit optional, in the present embodiment, the center point 8 is equidistant to the first end plane 1 and the second end plane 2 (hence being in the middle of the base portion 13).

[0064] The passage 14 extends from the first end plane 1 to the second end plane 2. The passage 14 comprises an upper passage 141 and a lower passage 142. Here, albeit optional, the lower passage 142 is in connection with the upper passage 141. The upper passage 141 is configured, when e.g. the mounting clip is in mounted position, to receive a first tube of said pair of tubes (not depicted). Here, the first tube is the support beam.

[0065] Moreover, a width 1411 of the upper passage 141 and / or a width 1421 of the lower passage 142 is at most 30 millimeters, preferably 27 millimeters. Such width 1411, 1421 is thereby defined perpendicular to the central axis 3. Here, in the present embodiment, the width 1411 of the upper passage 141 is the same as the width 1421 of the lower passage. In the present embodiment, albeit optional, a cross-sectional surface area (or: cross-section) of the upper passage 141 is smaller than a cross-sectional surface area (or: cross-section) of the lower passage 142. Hence, the upper passage 141 is smaller in cross-section than the lower passage 142. The lower passage 142 is configured, when e.g. the mounting clip is in mounted position, to receive a second tube of said pair of tubes (not depicted). Here, the second tube is the waterline. The lower passage 142 of the mounting clip 100 has enough 2024PF80340

[0066] 9 clearance for a variety of shapes and sizes of water lines, making it a universal fit for several major brands.

[0067] In examples, the upper passage may comprise a cross-sectional contour, which cross-sectional contour is defined in the middle plane, the first plane and / or the second plane. The cross-sectional contour of the upper passage may comprise a curved part and / or a linear part. In examples, the lower passage may comprise a cross-sectional contour, which cross- sectional contour is defined in the middle plane, the first plane and / or the second plane. The cross-sectional contour of the lower passage may comprise a curved part and / or a linear part.

[0068] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, a bottom plane 7 is defined, which bottom plane 7 is perpendicular to the central plane 4 and offset from the central axis 3. The lower passage 142 is thereby closer to the bottom plane 7 than the upper passage 141. The bottom plane 7 is an offset distance offset from the central axis 3. Here, the offset distance is between 50 and 100 millimeters, preferably 71 millimeters,

[0069] The first leg 11 is arranged at a first side 5 of the central plane 4. Albeit optional, in the present embodiment, the first leg 11 is arranged between the first end plane 1 and the middle plane 9. The first leg 11 extends towards a bottom plane 7 and contours at least part of the upper passage 141 and at least part of the lower passage 142. Here, the first leg 11 contours part of the upper passage 141 and part of the lower passage 142.

[0070] The second leg 12 is arranged at a second side 6 of the central plane 4. Albeit optional, in the present embodiment, the second leg 12 is arranged between the second end plane 2 and the middle plane 9. The second leg 12 extends towards said bottom plane 7 and contours at least part of said upper passage 141 and at least part of said lower passage 142. Here, the second leg contours part of the upper passage 141 and part of the lower passage 142.

[0071] Albeit optional, the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 have the same shape, or -phrased differently - are the same but on different sides of the central plane 4. More specifically, the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 each comprise a bent upper section 17 contouring at least part of the upper passage 141, a bent lower section 18 contouring at least part of the lower passage 142, and an intermediate section 19 connecting the bent upper section 17 to the bent lower section 18. The intermediate section 19 is thereby depressed towards the central plane 4. Such configuration and depression enables that the first tube and the second tube are snugly received within the respective upper passage 141 and the second passage 142, when the mounting clip is mounted. Such depression may also prevent or limit movement of the mounting clip in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 7. 2024PF80340

[0072] 10

[0073] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, albeit optional, the mounting clip 100 comprises a leg distance 20 between the first leg 11 and the second leg 12. The leg distance 20 is thereby defined as the largest distance between the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 in the central plane 4 and in the direction of the central axis 3. Here, the leg distance 20 is between 20 and 35 millimeters, preferably 27 millimeters. The leg distance 20 will therefore create a leg passage 21 within the mounting clip 100.

[0074] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, the mounting clip 100 according to the invention comprises the mentioned leg passage 21 between the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 of the mounting clip 100. The leg passage 21 at least partially overlaps with the passage 14 and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane 1 and the second end plane 2. In other words, the leg passage 21 and the passage 14 are orthogonal. Since the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 are spaced apart and connected to the base portion 13, the first leg 11 and the second leg 12 have flexibility in moving in opposite directions apart from each other (i.e. the first leg towards the first end plane and the second leg towards the second end plane). This may help positioning the mounting clip around a pair of tubes, so as to subsequently releasably mount a lighting device to the pair of tubes.

[0075] Moreover, albeit optional, the first leg 11 comprises a first slant edge 22 facing in the direction of the second end plane 2 and sloping towards the central axis 3. A projection of the first slant edge 22 in the central plane 4 is at a first slant angle 23 with respect to the central axis 3. The first slant angle 23 is indicated with a capital theta sign (0). The first slant angle 23 is thereby between 35 and 55 degrees, for example 48 degrees.

[0076] Additionally or alternatively, albeit optional, but depicted in the embodiment of figures 1 to 4, the second leg 12 similarly comprises a second slant edge 24 facing in the direction of the first end plane 1 and sloping towards the central axis 3. A projection of the second slant edge 24 in the central plane 4 is at a second slant angle 25 with respect to the central axis 3. The second slant angle 25 is indicated with theta sign (9). The second slant angle 25 is thereby between 35 and 55 degrees, for example 48 degrees.

[0077] The first slant edge 22 and / or the second slant edge 24 is configured, when the mounting clip is moved over the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes (not depicted) via the leg passage 21 and starts to abut the first tube of the pair of tubes, to cause the mounting clip 100 to rotate and receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the passage 14 and in line with the passage 14. Hence, the first slant edge 22 and / or the second slant edge 24 facilitate mounting the mounting clip 100 onto the pair of adjacent 2024PF80340

[0078] 11 and substantially parallel tubes. The first slant edge 22 and / or the second slant edge 24 cause a rotation when the mounting clip 100 is moved down towards the bottom plane 7.

[0079] The mounting clip comprises a mounting clip material. The mounting clip material may be a metal or a polymer. The mounting clip materials is preferably at least one of a polymer or a metal, for example one of, copper, aluminium, steel, stainless steel, ABS, Nylon, Delrin, Polycarbonate (PC), PET, PVC, Polyamide (PA), PEN, Acrylic, Polyurethane (PU). Here, the material is ABS.

[0080] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, as mentioned, the mounting clip 100 is configured to mount a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes. The mounting clip 100 therefore comprises a first connector 15 and a second connector 16. The first leg 11 comprises the first connector 15. The first connector 15 is configured to releasably connect the first leg 11 to (complementary / congruent parts of) the lighting device. Similarly, the second leg comprises the second connector 16. The second connector 16 is configured to releasably connect the second leg 12 to (complementary / congruent parts of) the lighting device. The first connector and the second connector may be configured to establish a mechanical connection with the lighting device, such as for example a snap-fit connection, or a click-fit connection, or a latching connection, or a press-fit connection, or even a Velcro connection.

[0081] Hence, said first connector 15 and said second connector 16 may be a mechanical connector and establish a mechanical connection. Alternatively, the first connector and / or the second connector may be an adhesive connector or a magnetic connector, and establish respectively an adhesive and / or magnetic connection. Thus, in alternative aspects, the first connector and / or the second connector comprise a magnetic surface part configured to magnetically (and releasably) connect to a (congruent part of a) lighting device. Thus, in alternative aspects, the first connector and / or the second connector comprise an adhesive strip configured to adhesively (and releasably) connect to a (congruent part of a) lighting device.

[0082] Still referring to figures 1 to 4, here, the first connector 15 comprises a first hook 151 in plane with (or parallel to) the bottom surface 7 and a first barb 152 protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 7. The first connector 15 is configured to snap fit to a corresponding (congruent / complementary) hook of the lighting device. The second connector 16 comprises a second hook 161 in plane with (or parallel to) the bottom surface 7 and a second barb 162 protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface 7. The 2024PF80340

[0083] 12 second connector 16 is configured to snap fit to a corresponding (congruent / complementary) hook of the lighting device.

[0084] Thereby, albeit optional, but depicted here, the first hook 151 and the second hook 161 may be pointing in opposite directions relative to the middle plane 9 and / or relative to the central plane 4. More specifically: The first hook 151 extends from the first leg 11 towards the second side 6. The second hook 161 extends from the second leg 12 towards the first side 5. The first hook comprises a tooth or a protrusion pointing towards the first end plane 1 and the second hook comprises a tooth or a protrusion point to towards the second end plane 2. This configuration may limit the degrees of freedom of a lighting device mounted to said first connector 15 and said second connector 16.

[0085] Other types of mechanical connection may be envisioned similarly for the first connector 15 and the second connector 16.

[0086] For example, in alternative aspects, not depicted, the first connector may comprise a first aperture configured to receive a protrusion from the lighting device (that the mounting clip mounts to the set of tubes). Similarly, the second connector may comprise a second aperture configured to receive a protrusion from the lighting device (that the mounting clip mounts to the set of tubes). Such protrusions of the lighting device may snap fit, latch fit, click fit, or press fit to the mounting clip, when the mounting clip is mounted to the pair of tubes.

[0087] Optionally, the intermediate section of the first leg may comprise a first rib configured to provide stiffness, and / or the intermediate section of the second leg may comprise a second rib configured to provide stiffness. The first rib and / or the second rib may thereby extend at least partially into the bent upper section and / or at least partially into the bent lower section.

[0088] Optionally, the first connector may comprise a mounting surface having a surface texture, and the second connector may comprise a mounting surface having a surface texture. The first hook and the second hook may comprise said mounting surface with surface texture. The first barb and the second barb may comprise said mounting surface with surface texture. The roughness of said surface texture may be larger than a roughness of said first leg and said second leg. This may facilitate securing and mounting the lighting device to the pair of tubes, as friction force may increase due to the surface texture.

[0089] All in all, still referring to the mounting clip 100 depicted in figures 1 to 4, the mounting clip 100 is advantageously configured to releasably mount a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes. The first tube of said pair of tubes passes 2024PF80340

[0090] 13 through the upper passage 141 of the mounting clip, when in mounted position. The second tube of said pair of tubes passes through the lower passage 142 of the mounting clip, when in mounted position. This construction enables the mounting clip to be mounted snug to said pair of tubes, and provides a solid support for a lighting device that is to be releasably connected (at the side of the bottom plane 7) to the first connector 15 of the first leg 11 and the second connector 16 of the second leg 12.

[0091] Therefore, the present invention provides a mounting clip 100 that is easy to install onto existing waterline infrastructure in an agricultural environment (e.g. a broiler farm). The mounting clip 100 is also fast to install, universally applicable, and easy to adjust, thereby reducing the install time of multiple lighting devices on waterlines in an agricultural environment, which can be dozens of lighting devices per waterline.

[0092] To install the mounting clip 100, the central axis 3 of the mounting clip 100 is held perpendicular to the elongated axis of the pair of tubes, and the mounting clip is subsequently lowered (starting from the bottom surface 7) onto the pair of tubes. Thereby, the first slant edge and the second slant edge will eventually engage with the first tube of the pair of tubes, causing the mounting clip 100 to rotate while moving down(wards) into a final position wherein the central axis of the mounting clip 100 is parallel with the elongated axis of the pair of tubes. In such a final position, a lighting device can be latched to the first connector and the second connector of the mounting clip 100, resulting in releasably mounting the lighting device to the pair of tubes via the mounting clip 100. The mounting clip 100 and the lighting device will not easily unlatch. For unlatching, or detaching, a mechanical force may be applied that rotates the mounting clip, or spaces the first leg and the second leg apart.

[0093] Figure 8 depicts schematically, by non-limiting example, a 3D render image of an assembly of the mounting clip 100 depicted in figures 1 to 4 mounted to a pair of tubes 300, connected to a lighting device, and thereby releasably mounting a lighting device 200 to the paid of tubes 300.

[0094] Figure 5 depicts schematically, by non-limiting example, an embodiment of a system 1000 according to the invention. Said system may be a lighting system 1000, such as an animal lighting or agricultural lighting system.

[0095] The system 1000 comprises the mounting clip 100 according to the invention, as depicted in the embodiment of figures 1 to 4. The system 1000 further comprises a lighting device 200 and a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes 300. 2024PF80340

[0096] 14

[0097] The pair of tubes 300 are thus adjacent and substantially parallel. The pair of tubes 300 consist of a first tube 301 and a second tube 302. Here, the first tube is a support beam, and the second tube is a waterline, as found in broiler farming.

[0098] Here, the lighting device 200 is an animal lighting device, which is configured to provide light to a bedding under the pair of tubes 300, (i.e. without the pair of tubes casting a shade on the bedding when the lighting device emits light). Here, albeit optionally, the lighting device 200 comprises a first lighting device hook 201 and a second lighting device hook 202 spaced apart along a lighting device center line 203. The first lighting device hook

[0099] 201 and the second lighting device hook 202 are pointing in opposite directions with respect to the lighting device center line 203.

[0100] Still referring to figure 5, the system 1000 comprises the mounting clip 100 according to the invention, as depicted in the embodiment of figures 1 to 4. The mounting clip 100 is configured to releasably connect the lighting device 200 to the pair of tubes 300. Namely, when mounted, the first connector 15 engages the first lighting device hook 201 of the lighting device 200, and the second connector 15 engages the second lighting device hook

[0101] 202 of the lighting device 200. The first lighting device hook 201 latches the first barb 152, and the second lighting device hook latches the second barb 162, while the first hook 151 of the first connector 15 latches a surface of the first lighting device hook 201 and the second hook 161 of the second connector 16 latches a surface of the second lighting device hook 202. Said latching may alternatively be phrased as snap fitting.

[0102] Therefore, the present invention provides a mounting clip 100 that is releasably, and easy to install onto existing waterline infrastructure in an agricultural environment (e.g. a broiler farm), to which a farmer may releasably mount a lighting device. A farmer is simply facilitated in creating the desired light distribution and / or illumination pattern within the agricultural environment, and particularly below the waterline. Eventually, this promotes animal health and wellbeing, while maintaining an optimized production efficiency.

[0103] Still referring to figure 5, albeit optionally, but depicted, the intermediate section 19 of the second leg 12 comprises a second rib 192 configured to provide stiffness. The second rib 192 extends at least partially into the bent upper section 17 and at least partially into the bent lower section 18 of the second leg 12.

[0104] Figure 6 depicts schematically, by non-limiting example, an embodiment of a method 2000 according to the invention. The method 2000 is arranged for mounting a lighting device 200 to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes 300 with the use of 2024PF80340

[0105] 15 the mounting clip 100 according to the invention (and according to the embodiment depicted in figures 1 to 4).

[0106] The substantially parallel tubes 300 consist of a first tube 301 and a second tube 302. The first tube 301 is a support beam. The second tube 302 is a waterline. The mounting clip 100 is configured to be mounted to the pair of tubes 300, and releasably connect (e.g. mechanically) the lighting device 200 to the pair of tubes 300.

[0107] Partially referring to figures 1 to 4, as mentioned before, the mounting clip 100 comprises a passage 14 and a leg passage 21. The leg passage 21 is defined (as the space) between the first leg 11 and the second leg 12. The leg passage 21 runs perpendicular to the central plane, while the passage 14 runs perpendicular to the central plane, hence the leg passage 21 being orthogonal to the passage 14. Hence, the leg passage 21 at least partially overlaps with the passage 14 and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane 1 and the second end plane 2.

[0108] Referring to figure 6, the method 2000 comprise a step 2001 of positioning the mounting clip 100 above a first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300 with the centerline 3 of the mounting clip 100 transverse to the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the mounting clip 100 is positioned above the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300 with the centerline 3 substantially perpendicular to the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300.

[0109] In some alternative examples, an anti-roost wire may be present above the support beam, so as to prevent poultry from roosting on the pair of tubes. Such an anti-roost wire may also be phrased as shocker wire. The anti-roost wire may be made of steel. Figure 7 depicts schematically, by non-limiting example, an optional additional step 1999 of the method 2000 according to the invention, for the situation where an anti-roost wire 500 may be present. Namely, the method 2000 according to the invention may optionally comprise a (preceding) step 1999 of positioning (or: inserting) the mounting clip 100 under the shocker wire 500 by moving the first leg 11 of the mounting clip 100 in the space between the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300 and the shocker wire 500. The spacing between the antiroost wire and the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300 may be at least 20 centimeters. Subsequently, step 2000 of positioning the mounting clip 100 as mentioned before may be performed.

[0110] Referring back to figure 6, the method 2000 comprises a further step 2002 of moving the mounting clip 100 via the leg passage 21 in a direction from the first tube 301 to the second tube 302 (over the first tube 301 and the second tube 302). The movement may for 2024PF80340

[0111] 16 example stop when the base portion 13 of the mounting clip 100 abuts the first tube 301 of the pair of tubes 300, or when the bent upper section of the legs 11, 12 of the mounting clip 100 aligns with the first tube 301 and the bent lower section of the legs 11, 12 of the mounting clip 100 aligns with the second tube 302. The method 2000 comprises a further step 2003 of rotating the mounting clip

[0112] 100 to cause the mounting clip 100 to receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes 300 via the passage 14 (instead of via the leg passage 21). This is the final position of the mounting clip 100 on the pair of tubes 300.

[0113] This method step 2003 further comprises the resulting step of releasably connecting the lighting device 200 to the mounting clip 100, and thereby mounting the lighting device 200 to the pair of tubes 300. More specifically, by rotating the mounting clip 100, as mentioned before, the mounting clip 100 does not only receive the pair of tubes 300 via the passage, and secures itself relative to the pair of tubes 300, but is also able to mechanically connect via its first connector and its second connector to congruent parts of the lighting device.

[0114] Hence, the present invention provides an improved method of releasably mounting a lighting device 200 to a pair of tubes 300, such that the lighting device 200 is located below the pair of tubes 300, and can locally illuminate a surface (e.g. bedding).

Claims

2024PF8034017CLAIMS:

1. A mounting clip (100) for mounting a lighting device (200) to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes (300), wherein the mounting clip (100) comprises:- a base portion (13) extending along a central axis (3) between a first end plane (1) and a second end plane (2), wherein the central axis (3) is arranged within a central plane (4), wherein the first end plane (1) and the second end plane (2) are perpendicular to the central plane (4);- a passage (14) extending from the first end plane (1) to the second end plane (2), wherein the passage comprises an upper passage (141) configured to receive a first tube (301) of said pair of tubes (300) and a lower passage (142) configured to receive a second tube (302) of said pair of tubes (300);- a first leg (11) coupled to the base portion (13) and arranged at a first side (5) of the central plane (4);- a second leg (12) coupled to the base portion (13) and arranged at a second side (6) of the central plane (4) opposite to the first side (5); wherein the first leg (11) and the second leg (12) extend towards a bottom plane (7), wherein the first leg (11) contours at least part of the upper passage (141) and at least part of the lower passage (142), wherein the second leg (12) contours at least part of the upper passage (141) and at least part of the lower passage (142); wherein the bottom plane (7) is perpendicular to the central plane (4) and offset from the central axis (3), wherein the lower passage (142) is closer to the bottom plane (7) than the upper passage (141); wherein the first leg (11) comprises a first connector (15) configured to releasably connect the first leg (11) to the lighting device (200), and wherein the second leg (12) comprises a second connector (16) configured to releasably connect the second leg (12) to the lighting device (200).

2. The mounting clip according to claim 1, wherein the first leg (11) and the second leg (12) each comprise:- a bent upper section (17) contouring at least part of the upper passage (141),2024PF8034018- a bent lower section (18) contouring at least part of the lower passage (142), and- an intermediate section (19) connecting the bent upper section (17) to the bent lower section (18), wherein the intermediate section (19) is depressed towards the central plane (4).

3. The mounting clip according to claim 2, wherein the intermediate section (19) of the first leg (11) comprises a first rib configured to provide stiffness; AND / OR wherein the intermediate section (19) of the second leg (12) comprises a second rib configured to provide stiffness.

4. The mounting clip according to claim 3, wherein the first rib (191) and / or the second rib (192) extends at least partially into the bent upper section (17) and / or at least partially into the bent lower section (18).

5. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper passage is in connection with the lower passage.

6. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base portion (13) comprises a center point (8) arranged on the central axis (3) and within a middle plane (9) parallel to the first end plane (1) and the second end plane (2); wherein the first leg (11) is arranged between the first end plane (1) and the middle plane (9), wherein the second leg (12) is arranged between the second end plane (2) and the middle plane (9).

7. The mounting clip according to claim 6, wherein the center point (8) is equidistant to the first end plane (1) and the second end plane (2).

8. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting clip comprises a leg distance (20) between the first leg (11) and the second leg (12), wherein the leg distance (20) is defined as the largest distance between the first leg (11) and the second leg (12) in the central plane (4) and in the direction of the central axis (3). wherein the leg distance (20) is between 20 and 35 millimeters.2024PF80340199. The mounting clip according to claim 8, wherein the mounting clip comprises a leg passage (21) between the first leg (11) and the second leg (12), wherein the leg passage (21) at least partially overlaps with the passage (14) and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane (1) and the second end plane (2); wherein the first leg (11) comprises a first slant edge (22) facing in the direction of the second end plane (2) and sloping towards the central axis (3), wherein a projection of the first slant edge (22) in the central plane (4) is at a first slant angle (23) with respect to the central axis (3), wherein the first slant angle (23) is between 35 and 55 degrees; AND / OR wherein the second leg (12) comprises a second slant edge (24) facing in the direction of the first end plane (1) and sloping towards the central axis (3), wherein a projection of the second slant edge (24) in the central plane (4) is at a second slant angle (25) with respect to the central axis (3), wherein the second slant angle (25) is between 35 and 55 degrees; wherein the first slant edge (22) and / or the second slant edge (24) is configured, when the mounting clip is moved with over the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the leg passage (21) and abuts the first tube of the pair of tubes, to cause the mounting clip to rotate and receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the passage (14).

10. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base portion is at least partly curved.

11. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width (1411) of the upper passage (141) and / or a width (1421) of the lower passage (142) is at most 30 millimeters, wherein the width is defined perpendicular to the central axis (3).

12. The mounting clip according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (15) comprises a first hook (151) in plane with the bottom surface (7) and a first barb (152) protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface (7), wherein the first connector (15) is configured to snap fit to a corresponding hook of the lighting device;2024PF8034020 wherein the second connector (16) comprises a second hook (161) in plane with the bottom surface (7) and a second barb (162) protruding in a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface (7), wherein the second connector (16) is configured to snap fit to a corresponding hook of the lighting device.

13. A method of mounting a lighting device to a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes, with the use of a mounting clip according to claim 1, wherein the mounting clip comprises a leg passage between the first leg and the second leg, wherein the leg passage at least partially overlaps with the passage and extends in a direction parallel to the first end plane and the second end plane, wherein the method comprises:- positioning the mounting clip above a first tube of the pair of tubes with the centerline of the mounting clip substantially perpendicular to the first tube of the pair of tubes;- moving the mounting clip via the leg passage in a direction from the first tube to the second tube;- rotating the mounting clip to cause the mounting clip to receive the pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes via the passage.

14. A system comprising the mounting clip according to claim 1, a lighting device, and a pair of adjacent and substantially parallel tubes, wherein the mounting clip is configured to releasably connect the lighting device to the pair of tubes.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein a first tube of the pair of tubes is a support beam, wherein the second tube of the pair of tubes is a waterline, wherein the lighting device is suitable for animal lighting.

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