Luminaires and applications thereof

Abstract

Luminaires are described herein having architecture and performance suitable for several outdoor applications, including architectural lighting and signage lighting. A luminaire, in some embodiments, comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. At least one mounting bracket is coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing, and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing. In some embodiments, the luminaire comprises a plurality of the mounting brackets.

Description

[0001] LUMINAIRES AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

[0002] RELATED APPLICATION DATA

[0003] The present application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 63 / 701,254 filed September 30, 2024 and United States Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 63 / 850,325 filed July 24, 2025, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present application relates to luminaires and, in particular, to luminaires having architecture and lighting characteristics suitable for various outdoor applications, including architectural lighting, area lighting, and signage lighting.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] The use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for various common lighting purposes has increased, and this trend has accelerated as advances have been made in LEDs and in LED-array bearing devices, often referred to as “LED modules.” Indeed, lighting applications which have been served by fixtures using high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps and other light sources are now increasingly beginning to be served by LED modules. Such lighting applications include architectural lighting and lighting of outdoor signs, including billboards and traffic signs along interstate roadways.

[0008] Use of LED modules for these applications can present particularly challenging problems. High costs due to high complexity becomes a particularly difficult problem when acceptable luminance, reliability, and durability are essential to product success. Keeping electronic LED drivers in a water / air-tight location may also be problematic, particularly when, as with outdoor lighting applications, the light fixtures are constantly exposed to the elements and a number LED modules are used.

[0009] Moreover, another cost-related challenge is the problem of achieving a high level of adaptability in order to meet a wide variety of different luminance requirements. That is, providing a fixture which can be adapted to give significantly greater or lesser amounts of luminance as deemed appropriate for particular applications is a difficult problem. Light-fixture adaptability is an important goal for LED-based luminaires. Additionally, various applications often require differing size and / or aesthetic characteristics for the luminaire. Meeting these requirements can further complicate design and production of LED-based luminaires.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] In view of the foregoing, luminaires are described herein having architecture and performance suitable for several outdoor applications, including architectural lighting and signage lighting. A luminaire, in some embodiments, comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. At least one mounting bracket is coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing, and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing. In some embodiments, the luminaire comprises a plurality of the mounting brackets. In some embodiments, a surface mounting bracket is coupled to a base of the mounting bracket.

[0012] In another aspect, a luminaire comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. A mounting assembly is coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting assembly comprises a bracket coupled to a surface of the housing and a pole mount coupled to the bracket via a rotatable joint. In some embodiments, the pole mount couples to a pole in a vertical orientation. Alternatively, the pole mount can coupled to a pole in a horizontal orientation.

[0013] In another aspect, a lighting assembly comprises at least two luminaires, and at least one bracket coupling a first luminaire to a second luminaire, the bracket comprising spacers extending into a boundary between the first and second luminaires. The spacers maintain separation of the first and second luminaires and can stabilize accurate positioning of the luminaires during installation of the bracket(s).

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one bracket is coupled to an endcap of the first luminaire and an endcap of the second luminaire. The endcaps of the first and second luminaires, in some embodiments, comprise apertures for coupling the bracket with fasteners. The apertures, in some embodiments, comprise threads or other features for engaging the fasteners. Moreover, the bracket comprises apertures aligning with the endcap apertures. In some embodiments, the bracket comprises one or more recesses between apertures of the bracket. The one or more recesses can accommodate electrical connections, vents, or other features associated with the endcaps of the luminaires.

[0015] In another aspect, backlight shields are described herein, A luminaire, in some embodiments, comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior. A light emitting panel is positioned in or over the housing interior, and a backlight shield extends from the first end to the second end of the housing and is positioned to block the transmission of light behind the luminaire. In some embodiments, the backlight shield is coupled to endcaps of the luminaire. The backlight shield, for example, can comprise feet including apertures which align with the endcaps in a manner similar to that described above for the bracket. In some embodiments, the apertures in the feet permit forward and / or rearward adjustment of the backlight shield relative to the luminaire housing. Additionally, the backlight shield can comprise an overhang extending along a back sidewall of the housing. The overhang can be set back from the back sidewall or contact the back sidewall depending on preference of the use.

[0016] In another aspect, luminaires comprising adjustable junction box configurations are described herein. In some embodiments, a luminaire comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. A junction box is coupled to the housing by a clamp, wherein the clamp engages rails in surfaces of the housing, and the position of the clamp and junction box is adjustable along the housing. The junction box can be oriented in the clamp to face a front side of the luminaire. Alternatively, the junction box can be oriented to face the back side of the luminaire. The positional adjustability of the junction box can accommodate various electrical connectivity configurations, including daisy chaining of junction boxes of multiple luminaires.

[0017] Luminaires described herein can employ light emitting diodes (LEDs) for the light emitting panel. In some embodiments, individual LEDs of the light emitting panel are covered by individual optics. Moreover, a diffusing lens or optic can be employed in conjunction with the individual optics. A diffusing lens, for example, can be positioned over the light emitting panel. In some embodiments, a diffusing lens is used in the absence of individual LED optics.

[0018] These and other embodiments are further described in the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a luminaire according to some embodiments described herein.

[0020] FIG. 2 provides an end sectional view of the luminaire of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the luminaire of FIGS. 1-2 wherein the mounting bracket is coupled to an extender.

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates an additional embodiments of luminaires described herein where the mounting brackets couple to the housing via intermediate brackets.

[0023] FIGS. 5-6 illustrate additional embodiments where the mounting brackets are coupled to the luminaire housing via intermediate brackets.

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates a luminaire employing the mounting assembly according to some embodiments.

[0025] FIGS. 8-9 illustrate a luminaire employing a mounting assembly wherein the pole mount had orientation for coupling to a pole in a horizontal position.

[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a mounting bracket coupling to the luminaire housing via tracks in the housing surface.

[0027] FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of a mounting bracket and engagement with surface tracks of the housing.

[0028] FIG. 12 illustrates a sectional view of a luminaire coupled to a surface mounting bracket according to some embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 13 illustrates a mounting bracket of a luminaire engaging with a surface mounting bracket, according to some embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of a luminaire illustrating a luminaire mounting bracket engaging with a surface mounting bracket, according to some embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a cut-away view of luminaire illustrating arrangement of a driver assembly within the luminaire housing according to some embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a luminaire illustrating coupling of the light emitting panel to a housing frame according to some embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 17 illustrates a luminaire comprising a positionally adjustable junction box according to some embodiments. FIG. 18 illustrates a top perspective view of a lighting assembly comprising at least two luminaires coupled by at least one bracket according to some embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the lighting assembly of FIG. 18.

[0035] FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective view of the lighting assembly detailed in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0036] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting assembly of FIGS. 18-20.

[0037] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the bracket 13 of FIGS. 18-21.

[0038] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a luminaire comprising a backlight shield according to some embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 24 illustrates coupling of a backlight shield to endcaps of a luminaire according to some embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the luminaire in FIGS. 23-24.

[0041] FIG. 26 illustrates a sheet-like optic comprising refractive and total internal reflections surfaces for providing desired lighting distributions and reducing glare from luminaires described herein according to some embodiments.

[0042] FIG. 27 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a luminaire according to some embodiments, wherein the housing is highlighted.

[0043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Embodiments described herein can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description and examples and their previous and following descriptions. Elements, apparatus and methods described herein, however, are not limited to the specific embodiments presented in the detailed description and examples. It should be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0045] In one aspect, a luminaire comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. At least one mounting bracket is coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing. In some embodiments described herein, the radially extending slot can be replaced by a series of apertures arranged in a radial or annular format, wherein each aperture corresponds to a rotational position of the luminaire. The locking mechanism can translate to each aperture and associated rotational position as desired by the installer of the luminaire. In some embodiments, the luminaire comprises a plurality of the mounting brackets.

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a luminaire according to some embodiments described herein. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the housing 11 extends from a first end 12 to a second end 13, to define a housing interior (not shown) over which a light emitting panel 14 is positioned. The lighting emitting panel 14 comprises an array of LEDs as light sources for the luminaire 10. Two mounting brackets 15, 16 are positioned at the first end 12 and second end 13 of the luminaire. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, each of the mounting brackets 15, 16 comprises a foot 17 to provide enhanced stability when coupling to a surface.

[0047] FIG. 2 provides an end sectional view of the luminaire of FIG. 1. The mounting bracket 16 comprises a radially extending slot 18 permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing 18. A fastener 19, such as a rod or bolt, extends from the housing 11 and passes through an aperture 20 in the end plate. The fastener 19 in conjunction with the radially extending slot 18 can permit rotation of the housing to orient the light emitting panel 14 in the desired position. In some embodiments, the housing 11 can be rotated within a range of 0 to 360 degrees. The radially extending slot 18 can be associated with markings 21 denoting radial positions to which the housing 11 can rotated. A locking mechanism 22 is also associated with the mounting bracket 16 for locking the radial position of the housing. In the present embodiment, the locking mechanism 22 can extend through the slot 18. Once the desired radial position is achieve, the locking mechanism 22 can be tightened to preclude further rotation of the housing. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 22 is a bolt or screw that can be manually loosened to permit rotation of the housing 11. The bolt or screw is subsequently tightened to preclude further rotation of the housing 11. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 22 includes a spring arrangement wherein a protrusion extending through the slot 18 is pulled in an outwardly direction to permit rotation of the housing 11. Placing outward force on the protrusion compresses a spring associated with the protrusion. When the outward force is released, the spring decompresses to bring the protrusion into contact with the outer face of the mounting bracket with sufficient force to preclude rotation of the housing. Additionally, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism 22 can travel along the slot 18 during rotation of the housing 11. Alternatively, the locking mechanism 22 can remain stationary during rotation of the housing 11.

[0048] FIG. 2 also illustrates a foot 23 coupled the base of the mounting bracket 16. The base of the mounting bracket 16 comprises one or more apertures 24, 25 for receiving fasteners 26, 27 for coupling the foot 23. The foot 23 can provide additional stability for the luminaire 10 when coupled to a surface. In some embodiments, the foot 23 is reversibly coupled to the mounting bracket 16 to permit removal of the foot 23, if desired. Spatial requirements of areas in which the luminaire 10 will be mounted may not accommodate the foot 23. Therefore, the foot 23 can be removed to slim the profile of the luminaire 10.

[0049] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the luminaire of FIGS. 1-2 wherein the mounting bracket is coupled to an extender. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, an extender 28 is positioned between the base of the mounting bracket 16 and the foot 23. The extender 28 can facilitate spacing the luminaire 10 away from the surface to which the luminaire 10 is mounted. Accordingly, the extender 28 can have any dimensions consistent with the desired spacing of the luminaire 10 from a mounting surface.

[0050] FIG. 4 illustrates an additional embodiments of luminaires described herein where the mounting brackets couple to the housing via intermediate brackets. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, intermediate brackets 44, 45 interface with the mounting brackets 42, 43 of the luminaire 40. The architecture and rotational operation of the mounting brackets 42, 43 are the same as that described for FIGS. 1-2. The principle difference in FIG. 3 is that the mounting brackets 42, 43 are coupled to the intermediate brackets 44, 45 as opposed to the ends of the housing 41. The opposing end of the intermediate brackets 44, 45 are coupled to the rear surface of the housing 41. As described further herein, brackets can couple to the rear surface via engagement with track in the housing surface. Moving the mounting brackets from the ends of the luminaire housing to the back surface can facilitate various mounting options for luminaires described herein when the mounting environment does not support end locations of the mounting brackets.

[0051] FIGS. 5-6 illustrates an additional embodiment where the mounting brackets are coupled to the luminaire housing via intermediate brackets. Regarding FIG. 6, the luminaire 60 comprises extenders 64, 65 coupled to the mounting brackets 62, 63. In some embodiments, a surface mounting bracket is coupled to a base of the mounting bracket. FIG. 12 illustrates a sectional view of a luminaire coupled to a surface mounting bracket according to some embodiments. In the sectional view, a mounting bracket 102 is coupled to an endcap 103 of the luminaire housing 101. The mounting bracket 102 comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing. A surface mounting bracket 105 is coupled to a base of the mounting bracket 102. The surface bracket 105 comprises a wall or flange 106 having apertures for receiving fasteners 107 for engaging the mounting bracket 102. The surface mounting bracket 105 also comprises apertures 108 enabling coupling to a surface, such as a wall.

[0052] Size or depth of the surface mounting bracket can scale with the size of the luminaire, in some embodiments. FIG. 13 illustrates a mounting bracket of a luminaire engaging with a surface mounting bracket, according to some embodiments. Compared with the surface mounting bracket of FIG. 12, the surface mounting bracket 112 of FIG. 13 exhibits a deeper base plate 114 and includes reinforcing walls or flanges 115.

[0053] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of a luminaire illustrating a luminaire mounting bracket engaging with a surface mounting bracket, according to some embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the surface mounting bracket 122 comprises a plate 123 for coupling with the luminaire mounting bracket 121. The surface mounting bracket 122 additionally comprises a separate flange 124 for anchoring to a surface. The flange 122 can comprise apertures 125 for receiving fasteners for anchoring to a surface.

[0054] As described and illustrated herein, the luminaires comprise a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior. The housing can be fabricated from any material or combination of the materials consistent with the technical objectives described herein. In some embodiments, the housing is formed or metal or alloy. For example, the housing can be fabricated from extruded metal, such as extruded aluminum. Alternatively, the housing can be formed of thermoplastic, thermosets or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, various components of the housing are constructed of differing materials. The main body of the housing extending from the first end to the second end, in some embodiments, is made of extruded metal or alloy, and the end caps of the housing are made of plastic or other polymeric material. The housing, in some embodiments, can comprise one or more structures in the interior facilitating placement and / or securement of the light emitting panel, driver assembly, and / or other components of the luminaire. In some embodiments, the housing interior is of sufficient volume to accommodate the driver assembly of the luminaire and / or other electrical components. The driver assembly, in some embodiments, comprises a driver coupled to a sled or base plate. The sled or base plate can engage with rails or slots in the housing interior, thereby facilitating insertion of the diver assembly into the housing interior. For example, an end cap the housing may be reversibly coupled to the main housing body permitting removal of the end cap and insertion of the driver assembly into the housing interior. The end cap subsequently be replaced or re-coupled to the main body of the housing. In some embodiments, one or more stops are arranged in the housing interior to ensure proper placement of the driver assembly. The stops can be positioned laterally to preclude the driver assembly from traveling too far within the housing interior. Vertical stops may be employed to ensure the driver assembly is at the desired height in the housing interior. Vertical stops, for example, can be used with one or more compression brackets to orient the driver assembly adjacent to a housing wall as described further herein. In some embodiments, the driver assembly can coupled to an end cap of the housing by one or more fasteners. If coupled to an end cap, the driver assembly can be pulled from the housing interior with removal of the end cap. In some embodiments, the driver assembly can be decoupled from the end cap prior to end cap removal. The driver assembly can be subsequently removed from the housing interior by hand or with other tooling.

[0055] Structural features, such as the rails or slots, can be arranged in the housing interior to provide specific placement or location of the driver assembly within the housing. In some embodiments, the structural features locate the driver assembly adjacent to or in contact with one or more sidewalls and / or bottom wall of the housing. Such location or positioning permits cooling of the driver via transfer of heat to the sidewall(s) and / or bottom wall for dissipation into the external environment. In some embodiments, the housing interior comprises one or more compression brackets. The one or more compression brackets push the driver against a sidewall and / or bottom wall of the housing to effectuate efficient heat transfer from the driver to the sidewall and / or bottom wall. Placing the driver in contact with a sidewall and / or bottom wall can also provide an earth ground connection and / or electromagnetic interference (EMI) ground connection between the driver and the housing. In some embodiments, one or more compression brackets are part of the driver assembly and engage with wall(s) of the housing interior and / or other structures to push the driver against a sidewall and / or bottom wall of the housing.

[0056] FIG. 15 is a cut-away view of luminaire illustrating arrangement of a driver assembly within the luminaire housing according to some embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 15 the driver assembly 72 comprises a driver 73 coupled to a sled or base plate 74. Fasteners 75 are employed to secure the driver assembly 72 in the housing 71 interior. In other embodiments, the sled 74 can engage with rails or slots (not shown) in the housing interior. The driver assembly 72 engages with a compression bracket 76 for pressing the driver 73 against the bottom wall 77 of the housing.

[0057] The housing may comprise one or more apertures for passing electrical connections to the driver assembly, including one or more power connections. In some embodiments, one or more apertures in the housing function as vents for regulating the exchange of air between the external environment and housing interior.

[0058] The housing can also comprise one or more structures facilitating positioning and / or incorporating the light emitting panel into the luminaire. In some embodiments, the housing comprise a frame on which the light emitting panel rests. The frame can travel along the interior perimeter of the housing. The frame, in some embodiments, is present along the entire interior perimeter of the housing. Alternatively, the frame is discontinuous, being present along one or more sections of the interior perimeter, such as along opposing sidewalls of the housing body or along opposing first and second ends of the housing. The area defined by the frame can be open to permit electrical interface of the light emitting panel with the driver located below in the housing. Moreover, the frame can positioned at any desired depth of the housing. Depth of the frame be can be set according to several considerations including, but not limited, to thickness of the light emitting panel, presence or absence of any external luminaire lens, and desired height of the light emitting panel relative to the perimeter of the housing.

[0059] Dimension of the light emitting panel can be set such that the light emitting panel rests on the frame and engages in a friction fit with the sidewalls and / or end cap of the luminaire housing. The light emitting panel may also be coupled to the frame by one or more techniques. The light emitting panel, in some embodiments, is coupled to the frame via an adhesive. The light emitting panel can also be coupled to the frame by one or more fasteners, such as screws or bolts. In some embodiments, the frame and / or walls of the housing can serve a heat sink for the light emitting panel.

[0060] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a luminaire illustrating coupling of the light emitting panel to a housing frame according to some embodiments. As provided in FIG. 16, the base 82 of the light emitting panel 81 is coupled to the frame 84 of the housing 89 via a bolt or screw 85. Additional bolts or screws (not shown) can be employed for coupling the light emitting panel 81 to the frame 84. In some embodiments, the bolts or screws are arranged along the perimeter of the light emitting panel 81. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the light emitting panel 81 is a LED panel. The fastening bolt or screw 85 passes through the base of the panel 81, such as the printed circuit board. The fastening bolt or screw 85 does not pass through the lenses 88 arranged over the LEDs. As described further herein, the lenses 87 over the individual LEDs can be provided in conjunction with a monolithic lens sheet thereover. In such embodiments, the lens sheet can comprise clearances for accommodating the fasteners. In other embodiments, the fasteners can pass through the monolithic lens sheet. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, an outer lens or cover 88 is arranged over the light emitting panel 81. In some embodiments, the lens sheet is weather sealed over the LEDs. The outer lens or cover 88 may be coupled to the housing 89 via adhesive and / or one or more fasteners. An outer frame 91 traveling the perimeter of the housing 89 can be placed over the lens or cover 89. Fasteners can be passed through the outer frame 91 and lens or cover 88 for and engage the housing 89. Adhesives may also be employed alone or in conjunction with fasteners for coupling the outer frame 91 to the lens 88 and housing 89. The outer lens or cover 88 and the outer frame 91 are supported by vertically extending rails 93. The vertically extending rails 93 can travel along a portion of the housing perimeter or along the entire perimeter and can assist in defining an upper portion of the housing 89 as described in FIG. 27. The driver assembly 95 resides in a lower portion of the housing beneath the frame 84.

[0061] Luminaires described herein can employ light emitting diodes (LEDs) for the light emitting panel. In some embodiments, individual LEDs of the light emitting panel are covered by individual optics. The individual optics can include various arrangements of refractive structures and total internal reflection (TIR) surfaces. In some embodiments, the individual optics have structure and / or properties, including lighting distributions, described in United States Patents 10,468,566, 10,804,448, and 11,393,961 and United States Patent Application Publication 2022 / 0231207, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The optics can have interior cavities for receiving individual LEDs. The interior cavities can comprise one or more interior surfaces for receiving light from the LEDs. The one or more surfaces can comprise microstructures, nanostructures and / or nanofacets that are refractive, have TIR surfaces or combinations thereof. Interior surfaces of the optics direct light to one ore more exterior features of the optic to provide the desired light distribution pattern form the optics. Exterior features can include microstructures, nanostructures and / or nanofacets that are refractive, have TIR surfaces or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the optics provide a Type II, Type III, or Type IV lighting distribution from the luminaire. Alternatively, the optics can provide a Type I or Type V lighting distribution from the luminaire.

[0062] Moreover, a diffusing lens or optic can be employed in conjunction with the individual optics. A diffusing lens, for example, can be positioned over the light emitting panel. In some embodiments, a diffusing lens is used in the absence of individual LED optics. The diffusing lens, in some embodiments, comprises various arrangements of refractive structures and TIR surfaces. In some embodiments, the diffusion lens comprises microstructures, nanostructures and / or nanofacets that are refractive, have TIR surfaces or combinations thereof. Such optical structures can be arranged on interior surfaces and / or exterior surfaces of the lens. Interior optical structures, for example, can work in conjunction with the exterior optical structures to provide the desired lighting distribution from the luminaire, including any of the Type I-V distributions. Additionally, the individual optics, diffusing lens, and / or combinations thereof can reduce glare from the luminaire. In some embodiments, the individual optics, diffusing lens, and / or combinations thereof diffuse the light emitted from the LEDs such that individual LED point light sources are not visible from the luminaire. Moreover, the individual optics, diffusing lens, and / or combinations thereof can provide desired color mixing of light emitting from the LEDs resulting in a uniform color and intensity light distribution from the luminaire. Luminaires described herein, in some embodiments, provide a color temperature of 2000-4000K. In other embodiments, luminaire described herein provide a color temperature of 4500-10, 000K.

[0063] The individual lenses and diffusing lens can be formed of molded, printed or extruded polymeric material, in some embodiments. The individual lenses and / or diffusing lens can provide symmetric or asymmetric lighting distributions from the luminaire. FIG. 26 illustrates a sheet-like optic comprising refractive and total internal reflections surfaces for providing desired lighting distributions and reducing glare from luminaires described herein according to some embodiments.

[0064] As described herein, the luminaire housing comprise a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior. The housing interior, in some embodiments, is partitioned into a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion can house the driver assembly and associated electronics, while the upper portion contains the light emitting panel. In some embodiments, a frame in the housing interior demarcates the upper portion from the lower portion. The frame, in some embodiments, can engage and support the light emitting panel as described with reference to FIG. 16. Additionally, the upper portion can comprise rails extending above frame. In some embodiments, the rails travel along a portion or the entire perimeter of the housing. The rails can support an outer lens and / or cover. The rails can also comprise an overhang precluding movement or displacement of the light emitting panel from the upper portion of the housing interior.

[0065] The lower portion of the housing interior can comprise one or more rails and / or slots for receiving the driver assembly, in particular, the sled or base of the driver assembly. In some embodiments, the lower portion has a greater volume than the upper portion of the housing interior. The lower portion of the housing interior may comprise a truncated or tapered base to accommodate slots or rails on the housing exterior. The slots or rails on the housing exterior can engage with clamps for coupling a mounting assembly and / or junction box to the housing, as illustrated in the non-limiting embodiments of FIG. 10, 11 and 17.

[0066] FIG. 27 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a luminaire according to some embodiments, wherein the housing body is highlighted. As provided in FIG. 27, the housing 271 comprises an upper region 272 and an lower region 273. A frame 274 in the housing interior demarcates the upper region 272 and the lower region 273. The upper region 272 houses the light emitting panel, which is secured to the frame 274 as described in FIG. 16. The upper region also comprises vertically extending rails 277 for coupling an outer lens and / or cover over the light emitting panel. The lower region 273 houses the driver assembly as described in FIG. 15. The housing interior of the lower region 273 tapers to accommodate slots or rails 275 for coupling a clamp to the housing exterior.

[0067] In another aspect, a luminaire comprises a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. A mounting assembly is coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting assembly comprises a bracket coupled to a surface of the housing and a pole mount coupled to the bracket via a rotatable joint.

[0068] FIG. 7 illustrates a luminaire employing the mounting assembly according to some embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the luminaire 70 comprises a housing 71 and light emitting panel 72 positioned over an interior of the housing 71. A bracket 74 of the mounting assembly 73 is coupled to a back surface of the housing 71 and to the rotatable joint 74. The pole mount 75 is coupled to the opposing side of the rotatable joint 74. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the pole mount 75 has an orientation for coupling to a pole in the vertical position. For example, the pole mount can comprise a cylindrical cavity for receiving a pole. The pole mount can also be configured to receive poles having polygonal or elliptical cross-sectional profiles. FIGS. 8-9 illustrate a luminaire employing a mounting assembly wherein the pole mount has orientation for coupling to a pole in a horizontal position. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-9, the bracket 84 of the mounting assembly 83 is coupled to the back surface of the housing 81. The pole mount 85 extends in a lateral direction for receiving a pole having a horizontal orientation. In some embodiments, an insert can be positioned in the pole mount to alter the diameter of the mount for receiving poles or tenons or differing diameter.

[0069] The rotatable joint of the mounting assembly can provide rotation of the luminaire housing in a range of 0 to 180 degrees. The rotatable joint can also employ a locking assembly operable to lock rotation at any desired increment. In some embodiments, for example, the rotatable joint is lockable in increments ranging from 1 degree to 5 degrees.

[0070] Additionally, in some embodiments, the mounting bracket of the mounting assembly is coupled to the housing via tracks in housing surfaces. FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a mounting bracket coupling to the luminaire housing via tracks in the housing surface. As provided in FIG. 10, the mounting bracket 10 comprises top and bottom flanges 11, 12 for engaging tracks 13, 14 of the housing. FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of a mounting bracket and engagement with surface tracks of the housing. The tracks of the housing surface can permit position adjustment of the mounting bracket to address various issues that may be encountered in the environment in which the luminaire is to be mounted.

[0071] In some embodiments, luminaires described herein comprise positionally adjustable junction boxes. FIG. 17 illustrates a luminaire comprising a positionally adjustable junction box according to some embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 17, the luminaire 90 comprises a housing 91 including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior. A junction box 92 is coupled to the housing 91 via a clamp 93. The clamp 93 includes a platform 94 for engaging the junction box 92. The platform 94 can comprise a central aperture for engaging with an electrical connector 95 of the junction box 92. Alternatively, the platform 94 can comprise a series of apertures 96 for engaging with the junction box 92 with fasteners, such as screws or bolts. The clamp 93 engages with rails in surfaces of the housing 91, and the position of the clamp 93 and junction box 92 is adjustable along the housing 91. In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the junction box 92 is oriented in the clamp 93 to face a front side of the luminaire. Alternatively, the junction box 92 can be oriented to face the back side of the luminaire. Additionally, in some embodiments, the junction box 92 comprises a controller for adjusting light output of the light emitting panel.

[0072] Additionally, luminaires having architecture and properties described herein can be produced in various sizes depending on the lighting application and environment in which the luminaires will be placed. In one aspect, a lighting assembly comprises at least two luminaires, and at least one bracket coupling a first luminaire to a second luminaire, the bracket comprising spacers extending into a boundary between the first and second luminaires. The spacers maintain separation of the first and second luminaires and can stabilize accurate positioning of the luminaires during installation of the bracket(s). In some embodiments, the at least one bracket is coupled to an endcap of the first luminaire and an endcap of the second luminaire. The endcaps of the first and second luminaires, in some embodiments, comprise apertures for coupling the bracket with fasteners. The apertures, in some embodiments, comprise threads or other features for engaging the fasteners. Moreover, the bracket comprises apertures aligning with the endcap apertures. In some embodiments, the bracket comprises one or more recesses between apertures of the bracket. The one or more recesses can accommodate electrical connections, vents, or other features associated with the endcaps of the luminaires.

[0073] FIG. 18 illustrates a top perspective view of a lighting assembly comprising at least two luminaires coupled by at least one bracket according to some embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the luminaires 11, 12 of the lighting assembly 10 are coupled end to end by two brackets 13, 14 engaging the endcaps 15, 16 of the luminaires 11, 12. The top bracket 13 comprises spacers 13a, 13b extending into a boundary 17 between the luminaires 11, 12. The spacers 13a, 13b extend from a central region of the top bracket 13 and can maintain separation of the luminaires 11, 12. Moreover, the spacers 13a, 13b can stabilize positioning of the luminaires 11, 12 during fastening of the top bracket 13 to the end caps 15, 16. Stabilization of the luminaires 11, 12 by the spacers 13 a, 13b can preclude or minimize movement of the luminaires 11, 12, thereby facilitating proper fastening of the top bracket 13.

[0074] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the lighting assembly of FIG. 18. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the bottom bracket 14 also comprises spacers 14a, 14b extending into the boundary 17 between the luminaires 11, 12. The spacers 14a, 14b also maintain separation of the luminaires 11, 12 and stabilize the luminaires during fastening of the bottom bracket 14. FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective view of the lighting assembly detailed in FIGS. 18 and 19. In the embodiment of FIG 20, the spacers 13a, 14a of the respective brackets 13, 14 extend into and maintain the boundary 17 between the luminaires 11, 12. Spacers 13b, 14b (not shown) on the opposite side of the luminaires 11, 12 also extend into and maintain the boundary 17 between the luminaires 11, 12. The spacers can have any desired shape consistent with the technical objectives described herein. In the embodiment of FIGS. 18-20, the spacers have a wedge shape or tapered shape.

[0075] In some embodiments, the endcaps of the luminaires comprise apertures for coupling the brackets with fasteners, such as screws. The apertures in the endcaps can be threaded or comprise other structural features for engaging the fasteners. The brackets can comprise apertures aligning with the endcap apertures. FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting assembly of FIGS. 18-20. The endcaps 15, 16 of the luminaires 11, 12 comprise apertures 18, 19 for receiving fasteners for coupling the brackets 13, 14. Apertures in the brackets align with the apertures 18, 19 in the endcaps 15, 16. In some embodiments, the endcaps 15, 16 are fabricated with the apertures 18, 19. Alternatively, the apertures 18, 19 can be generated at the time of assembling the lighting assembly.

[0076] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the bracket 13 of FIGS. 18-21. The bracket 13 comprises a body 13c from which the spacers 13a, 13b extend. Each of the spacers 13a, 13b can exhibit a radius of curvature as the spacers 13 a, 13b transition from a lateral to vertical direction. In some embodiments, the spacers 13a, 13b are raised above the surface of the body 13c before curving to the vertical orientation. The spacers 13a, 13b can extend inwardly in the vertical orientation. Such inward extension can ensure the spacers 13a, 13b remain in the boundary between the luminaires and do not protrude past the luminaire side walls. In some embodiments, the spacers 13a, 13b extend inwardly 10-20 degrees from vertical. The bracket 13 also comprises apertures 13d for receiving fasteners, such as screws or bolts. The body 13c can comprise one or more recesses 13e. The recesses can accommodate various surface features of the luminaires, such as ports for electrical connections 21 and vents 22, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0077] As illustrated in FIGS. 18-21, each of the luminaires comprise a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior. In some embodiments, the luminaires have matching lighting distributions. Additionally, the lighting assembly can comprise any desired number of luminaires coupled to one another using brackets described herein. The luminaire can have any construction and / or properties described herein.

[0078] In another aspect, luminaires comprising backlight shield are provided. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a luminaire comprising a backlight shield according to some embodiments. The luminaire 60 comprises a housing 61 including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, wherein a light emitting panel 62 is positioned in or over the housing interior. A backlight shield 63 extends from the first end to the second end of the housing 61 and is positioned to block transmission of light behind the luminaire 60. The backlight shield 63 can couple to the luminaire housing 61 by any desired means. In some embodiments, the backlight shield is coupled to endcaps of the luminaire. FIG. 24 illustrates coupling of a backlight shield to endcaps of a luminaire according to some embodiments. The backlight shield 63, for example, can comprise feet 65 including apertures 67 which align with the endcaps in a manner similar to that described above for the bracket. In some embodiments, the apertures 67 of the backlight shield 63 can align with apertures of the bracket wherein the same fasteners can be employed to couple both the bracket and backlight shield 63 to the luminaire 60. Moreover, in some embodiments wherein multiple luminaires are coupled with brackets to provide a lighting assembly, the backlight shield can extend the length of the lighting assembly. In such embodiments, the backlight shield can couple to the endcap of the first luminaire and the endcap of the last luminaire, thereby providing uninterrupted extension along the entire lighting assembly.

[0079] In some embodiments, the apertures in the feet permit forward and / or rearward adjustment of the backlight shield relative to the luminaire housing. In the embodiment of FIG.24, the apertures 67 are sufficient dimensions to permit movement of the backlight shield 63 forward or rearward, as desired.

[0080] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the luminaire in FIGS. 23-24. In the embodiment of FIG. 25, the backlight shield 63 comprises an overhang 68 set back from the back sidewall 69. In some embodiments, the overhang 68 can contact the back sidewall 69. Contact can be made between the overhang 68 and back sidewall 69 by shifting the backlight shield 63 forward. Forward and rearward positioning of the backlight shield 63 can be managed with the apertures described in FIG. 7. In addition to the overhang 68, the backlight shield 63 can further comprise a flange 70 extending along a top surface of the backlight shield 63. The flange 70 curves in rearward direction from the light emitting panel and can assist in positioning of the backlight shield 63 and / or luminaire. In the embodiment of FIGS. 23-25, the backlight shield also comprises side-shields 65 further blocking the side emission of light from the luminaire 60.

[0081] The housing 61 of the luminaire can be coupled to mounting brackets 72 comprising a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing.

[0082] Various embodiments of the invention have been described in fulfillment of the various objects of the invention. It should be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A luminaire comprising: a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior; a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior; and at least one mounting bracket coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing.

2. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket is coupled to a surface of the housing.

3. The luminaire of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises an aperture for receiving a fastener extending from to the housing.

4. The luminaire of claim 3, wherein the fastener comprises a bolt or rod.

5. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises an aperture for receiving an intermediate bracket positioned between the mounting bracket and the housing.

6. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises one more apertures positioned to receive at least one fastener for coupling the mounting bracket to a surface.

7. The luminaire of claim 6, wherein the one or more apertures are positioned at a base of the mounting bracket.

8. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises a foot coupled to a base of the mounting bracket.

9. The luminaire of claim 8, wherein the foot is reversibly coupled to the base.

10. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises an extender coupled to a base of the mounting bracket.

11. The luminaire of claim 10, wherein the extender is reversibly coupled to the base.

12. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one mounting bracket is coupled to the first end or the second end.

13. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one mounting bracket is coupled to a rear surface of the housing.

14. The luminaire of claim 1 comprising a plurality of the mounting brackets coupled to the housing.

15. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the light emitting panel comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs).

16. The luminaire of claim 15, wherein individual LEDs are covered by individual optics.

17. The luminaire of claim 16 further comprising a diffusing lens positioned over the light emitting panel.

18. The luminaire of claim 17, wherein the diffusing lens comprises refractive facets and total internal reflection surfaces.

19. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the slot extends radially over a range of at least 180 degrees.

20. A luminaire comprising: a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior; a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior; anda mounting assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting assembly comprises a bracket coupled to a surface of the housing and a pole mount coupled to the bracket via a rotatable joint.

21. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the bracket is coupled to a rear surface of the housing.

22. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the bracket is coupled to the rear surface at a midpoint of the housing.

23. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the joint is operable to rotate up to 180 degrees.

24. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the pole mount couples to a pole in a vertical orientation.

25. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the pole mount couples to a pole in a horizontal orientation.

26. The luminaire of claim 20, wherein the light emitting panel comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs).

27. The luminaire of claim 26, wherein individual LEDs are covered by individual optics.

28. The luminaire of claim 27 further comprising a diffusing lens positioned over the light emitting panel.

29. The luminaire of claim 28, wherein the diffusing lens comprises refractive facets and total internal reflection surfaces.

30. A lighting assembly comprising: at least two luminaires; andat least one bracket coupling a first luminaire to a second luminaire, the bracket comprising spacers extending into a boundary between the first and second luminaires.

31. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the spacers maintain separation of the first and second luminaires.

32. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the at least one bracket is coupled to an end cap of the first luminaire and an end cap of the second luminaire.

33. The lighting assembly of claim 32, wherein the end caps of the first and second luminaires comprise apertures for coupling the bracket with fasteners.

34. The lighting assembly of claim 33, wherein the bracket comprises apertures aligning with the end cap apertures.

35. The lighting assembly of claim 34, wherein the bracket further comprises one or more recesses between the apertures of the bracket.

36. The lighting assembly of claim 35, wherein the one or more recesses are adjacent to an electrical connection of the first luminaire or the second luminaire.

37. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the spacers have a wedge shape.

38. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the spacers extend inwardly into the boundary.

39. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the bracket is symmetrical along at least one axis.

40. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the bracket is symmetrical along at least two axes.

41. The lighting assembly of claim 30, wherein the first and second luminaire each comprise a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior, and a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior.

42. The lighting assembly of claim 41, wherein the first and second luminaires have matching lighting distributions.

43. The lighting assembly of claim 30 further comprising at least one additional luminaire coupled to the first luminaire or the second luminaire via at least one additional bracket comprising spacers extending into an additional boundary between the at least one additional luminaire and the first or second luminaire.

44. A luminaire comprising: a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior; a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior; and a backlight shield extending from the first end to the second end of the housing and positioned to block transmission of light behind the luminaire.

45. The luminaire of claim 44, wherein the backlight shield is coupled to end caps of the luminaire housing.

46. The luminaire of claim 45, wherein the light shield comprises feet for engaging with the end caps.

47. The luminaire of claim 46, wherein the feet comprise apertures aligning with apertures in the end caps for receiving fasteners.

48. The luminaire of claim 47, wherein the apertures in the feet have dimensions permitting forward and / or rearward adjustment of the backlight shield.

49. The luminaire of claim 44, wherein the backlight shield comprise an overhang extending along a back side wall of the housing.

50. The luminaire of claim 49, wherein the overhang is set back from the back side wall.

51. The luminaire of claim 49, wherein the overhang contacts the back side wall.

52. The luminaire of claim 44, wherein the backlight shield further comprises a flange extending along a top surface of the backlight shield.

53. The luminaire of claim 52, wherein the flange curves in rearward direction from the light emitting panel.

54. The luminaire of claim 44, wherein the backlight shield further comprises at least one side shield.

55. The luminaire of claim 44 further comprising at least one mounting bracket coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing.

56. A luminaire comprising: a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior; a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior; and a junction box coupled to the housing by a clamp, the clamp engaging rails in surfaces of the housing, wherein position of the clamp and junction box is adjustable along the housing.

57. The luminaire of claim 56, wherein the clamp comprises one or more apertures for receiving the junction box.

58. The luminaire of claim 56, wherein the junction box is facing a front side of the luminaire.

59. The luminaire of claim 56, wherein the junction box is facing a back side of the luminaire.

60. The luminaire of claim 56, wherein the junction box comprises a controller for adjusting light output of the light emitting panel.

61. A luminaire comprising: a housing including a first end extending to a second end defining a housing interior; a light emitting panel positioned in or over the housing interior; at least one mounting bracket coupled to the housing, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a radially extending slot permitting adjustment of radial position of the housing and a locking mechanism extending through the slot for locking the radial position of the housing; and a surface mounting bracket coupled to a base of the mounting bracket.

62. The luminaire of claim 61, wherein the base of the mounting bracket comprises one or more apertures for receiving fasteners for coupling to the surface mounting bracket.

63. The luminaire of claim 62, wherein the surface mounting bracket comprises a flange including apertures for receiving the fasteners.

64. The luminaire of claim 61, wherein size of the surface mounting bracket scales with size of the housing.

65. The luminaire of claim 61, wherein the surface mounting bracket comprises a surface mounting flange for anchoring to a surface.

66. The luminaire of claim 65, wherein the surface mounting flange comprises apertures for receiving anchoring fasteners.

7. A luminaire comprising: a plurality of light emitters on a light-emitting panel coupled to a housing frame; an individual lens over each of the light emitters; and a monolithic nano-faceted lens sheet over the individual lenses.

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