Trunking system with coupled modules and coupling plate therefor

Abstract

A trunking system comprising: - a first module (100); - a second module (200); - at least one coupling plate (10); - a first fixation means (110) configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate (10) to the first module (100); - a second fixation means (210) configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate (10) to the second module (200); - wherein the at least one coupling plate (10) is defined by a plate length (LP) and a plate width (wP) and comprises: - a first section (10a) configured for being inserted into the first module (100) in a direction of the plate length (LP), wherein the first section (10a) includes a first fixation slot (11) extending from an edge of the at least one coupling plate (10) along the plate width (wP), said first fixation slot (11) configured for cooperating with the first fixation means (110) such as to fix the at least one coupling plate (10) relative to the first module (100); - a second section (10b) configured for being inserted into the second module (200) in the direction of the plate length (LP), wherein preferably the second section (10b) includes a second fixation slot (12) extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate (10) along the plate width (wP), said second fixation slot (12) configured for cooperating with the second fixation means (210) such as to fix the at least one coupling plate (10) relative to the second module (200).

Description

[0001] TRUNKING SYSTEM WITH COUPLED MODULES AND COUPLING PLATE THEREFOR

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The field of invention relates to trunking systems with coupled modules, preferably luminaire trunking system, and coupling plates for coupling modules of trunking systems. Particular embodiments relate to trunking systems with extruded structural parts.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Trunking systems, such as luminaire trunking systems, linear luminaires, or modular luminaire profiles made to contain electrical components, including one or more light sources for example, are readily available and are typically made of modules to be joined in line, coupled at their respective extremities. As the modules are generally lengthy and substantially weighty, it is of importance to couple modules using reliable and secure coupling means. However, focusing only on the robustness of the coupling means is not the only concern to take care of. Indeed, proper alignment between the modules is also of importance, as well as reducing as much as possible interstitial space between the modules in order to maintain continuity in the trunking system and ensure tightness in-between modules. In addition, tightness between modules is to be considered in the case of luminaire trunking systems in order to reduce light leakage at the junction between the modules for a more overall homogenous lighting.

[0006] Typically, external brackets with through-holes to cooperate with screws or bolts are employed to couple modules together. However, although such solutions may couple the modules together, they are not necessarily satisfactory regarding play between the modules, or to minimize a space between the modules. Additionally, using such external brackets, sealing means must also be used to compensate for the breach in the modules required to employ screws or bolts. There is thus a need for a better way to provide coupling between modules of a trunking system with less impact on the integrity of the modules, while still being able to couple the modules reliably.SUMMARY

[0007] The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a trunking system which presents a secure coupling between module thereof, while preserving an external enclosure of the modules, as well as a coupling plate for coupling modules of a trunking system.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a trunking system. The trunking system comprises: a first module; a second module; at least one coupling plate; a first fixation means; and a second fixation means. The first fixation means is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate to the first module. The second fixation means is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate to the second module. The at least one coupling plate is defined by a plate length and a plate width and comprises: a first section; and a second section. The first section is configured for being inserted into the first module in a direction of the plate length. The first section includes a first fixation slot extending from an edge of the at least one coupling plate along the plate width, said first fixation slot configured for cooperating with the first fixation means such as to fix the at least one coupling plate relative to the first module. The second section is configured for being inserted into the second module in the direction of the plate length.

[0009] Preferably, the second section includes a second fixation slot extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate along the plate width, said second fixation slot configured for cooperating with the second fixation means such as to fix the at least one coupling plate relative to the second module. However, it is also possible to fix the second section in a different way to the second module.

[0010] Here, by trunking system, e.g. a luminaire trunking system, it is meant an assembling system whose main structural parts are made by extrusion to define an elongated element and whose length can be freely modulated according to the needs.

[0011] Using the first module and the second module, portions of the elongated element are housed, and various electrical components may be placed in the first module and the second module, such as a lighting means for example. The trunking system may be used to connect mechanically and to link electrically the first module and the second module. The first module and the second module may be similar or different.

[0012] Due to the insertion of the first section and the second section of the at least one coupling plate within the first module and the second module, respectively, the coupling between the first module and the second module is achieved from within the first and second modules without substantially impacting an external housing portion of the first module and of the second module.This means that the addition of potential new sources of ingress in order to couple the first module and the second module is decreased. Furthermore, hiding the means of coupling within the first and second modules is more aesthetically pleasing. Preferably, the at least one coupling plate extends vertically within the first module and the second module in an assembled state of the trunking system.

[0013] Moreover, since the first fixation slot and the second fixation slot extend along the plate width, the first fixation means and the second fixation means can apply a retaining force across a larger section of the coupling plate than typical bolts inserted via through-holes going through the thickness of the at least one coupling plate, for example. In other words, the first fixation means and the second fixation means are configured to extend in a main plane of the at least one coupling plate, in contrast to the typical fixation means extending through the at least one plate substantially perpendicularly to the main plane. Therefore, there is less play, and the coupling is more robust along a main axis of the first module and the second module, the first fixation means and the second fixation means being configured for extending substantially perpendicular relative to the main axis. Furthermore, such implementation allows for a very compact trunking system and offers more internal space.

[0014] In an embodiment, the plate length may be between 60 and 100 mm, preferably between 75 and 80 mm; the plate width may be between 20 and 40 mm, preferably between 25 and 35 mm; and the plate thickness may be between 2 and 5 mm.

[0015] Additionally, the first fixation slot and the second fixation slot may extend from the same edge or from opposite edges of the at least one coupling plate. In an alternative embodiment, the first fixation slot and / or the second fixation slot may be mirrored relative to a main axis of the at least one coupling plate so that a user of the at least one coupling plate has the choice to employ fixation means on either side of the at least one coupling plate.

[0016] The trunking system may be a luminaire trunking system adapted for outdoor lighting or industrial lighting. By outdoor lighting and industrial lighting, it is meant lighting adapted for roads, tunnels, industrial plants, stadiums, airports, harbors, rail stations, campuses, parks, cycle paths, pedestrian paths, or pedestrian zones for example, and industrial and outdoor lighting systems can be used notably for the lighting of an outdoor area, such as roads and residential areas in the public domain, private parking areas and access roads to private building infrastructures, warehouses, industry halls, etc.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one coupling plate further comprises a third section arranged between the first section and the second section. The third section is configuredfor allowing an elastic displacement of the first section with respect to the second section around an axis substantially perpendicular to the coupling plate.

[0018] In this way, the elastic displacement of the first section with respect to the second section can realign the first module relative to the second module during coupling thanks to the restoring force of the elastic displacement. Due to the realignment, the presence of an interstitial space at the junction between the first and second modules can be mitigated.

[0019] Also, due to the elastic displacement, stress applied to the coupling plate around an axis substantially perpendicular to the coupling plate because of an non-zero angle between the first module and the second module is negated.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the third section includes at least one slot, preferably a plurality of zig zag slots, extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate along the plate width to allow the elastic displacement of the first section with respect to the second section.

[0021] In this manner, the third section configured for allowing the elastic displacement can be implemented easily and in a compact manner. In an embodiment, a single slot is formed in the third section to allow the elastic displacement; and an inner extremity of the slot may form a circular opening to better spread stress at this point. In another embodiment, the at least one slot includes an even number of slots extending substantially parallel to each other from opposite edges of the at least one coupling plate in an alternating manner, i.e. zig zag slots.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first fixation means comprises a first bolt or screw.

[0023] Preferably, the first fixation slot is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the first bolt or screw relative to the first fixation slot.

[0024] In another embodiment, the first fixation slot presents a straight outline and is configured for having a bottom with which the first bolt or screw, will engage during tightening. Preferably, a tip of the first bolt or screw is conical to match with a conical bottom of the first fixation slot.

[0025] In this way, the first fixation means applies only a retaining force substantially perpendicular to the main axis of the at least one coupling plate, without applying significant stress across the plate width due to the first fixation means abutting against an inner extremity of the first fixation slot.

[0026] Preferably, a ratio of an engagement length of the first bolt over a depth of the first fixation slot is between 60 and 90%, more preferably between 70 and 80%. Alternatively, an engagement length of the first bolt in contact with an internal surface of the first fixation slot may be more than5mm, and a clearance between a tip of the first bolt or screw and a bottom of the firs fixation slot may be at least 2 mm. Additionally, a width of the first fixation slot may be between 4 and 6 mm.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the second fixation means comprises a second bolt or screw. The second fixation slot is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the second bolt or screw relative to the second fixation slot.

[0028] In another embodiment, the second fixation slot presents an oblique side against which the second bolt (or screw) will abut during tightening. As the second bolt or screw is tightened, the at least one coupling plate will be displaced until the second bolt or screw cannot cause further displacement due to the extremities of the first module and the second module abutting.

[0029] In this way, the second fixation means applies only a retaining force substantially perpendicular to the main axis of the at least one coupling plate, without applying significant stress across the plate width due to the second fixation means abutting against an inner extremity of the second fixation slot.

[0030] Preferably, a ratio of an engagement length of the second bolt or screw over a depth of the second fixation slot is between 60 and 90%, more preferably between 70 and 80%. Alternatively, an engagement length of the second bolt or screw in contact with an internal surface of the first fixation slot may be more than 5mm, and a clearance between a tip of the second bolt or screw and a bottom of the second fixation slot may be at least 2 mm. Additionally, a width of the second fixation slot may be between 4 and 6 mm.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second fixation slot includes a pulling corner at the edge of the at least one coupling plate, said pulling corner being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile. Additionally or alternatively, the first fixation slot includes a pulling corner at the edge of the at least one coupling plate, said pulling corner being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile.

[0032] In this manner, when inserting the second fixation means, e.g. the second bolt, through the second fixation slot, the abutment of the second fixation means against the pulling corner will create a pulling force between the first module and the second module due to an extremity of the second fixation means pushing against the rounded and / or angled profile of the pulling corner. However, in order to do so, the first fixation means should also be fixing the at least one coupling plate relative to the first module so that the first module is pulled by the action on the at least one coupling plate at the level of the second fixation slot.According to a preferred embodiment, the first section includes a manipulation aperture, preferably a finger aperture. Additionally or alternatively, the second section includes a manipulation aperture, preferably a finger aperture.

[0033] In this way, the assembly of the at least one coupling plate is rendered more user-friendly for the user of the trunking system. In an embodiment, the manipulation aperture is defined by a through-hole, such as a circular through-hole, through the at least one coupling plate.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second section includes one or more outer insertion corners, each of said one or more outer insertion corners being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile. Additionally or alternatively, the first section includes one or more insertion corners, each of said one or more outer insertion corners being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile.

[0035] In this manner, insertion of the first section in the first module and / or of the second section in the second module, respectively, is made easier.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the second section includes one or more aligning means configured for aligning the coupling plate at a predetermined insertion depth relative to the second module. Additionally or alternatively, the first section includes one or more aligning means configured for aligning the coupling plate at a predetermined insertion depth relative to the first module.

[0037] In this way, control of the assembly of the trunking system using the at least one coupling plate is made more user-friendly for the user of the coupling plate. Depending on embodiment, the one or more aligning means may comprise markings of the surface of the at least one coupling plate, protrusions, depressions, V-notches in edges of the at least one coupling plate, and / or slits in the at least one coupling plate. Typically, the one or more aligning means are indicative of a level to be reached relative to an extremity of the first / second module.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second section includes a holding hole configured for cooperating with a holding means, preferably a screwdriver, such as to hold the coupling plate in place relative to the second module during assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the first section includes a holding hole configured for cooperating with a holding means, preferably a screwdriver, such as to hold the coupling plate in place relative to the first module during assembly.In this manner, assembly of the at least one coupling plate to the first and / or second module is facilitated. To use the holding hole, the user should insert the holding means, e.g. the screwdriver, through the holding hole, and then insert the at least one coupling plate into the second module. When the holding means abuts against the extremity of the second module, then the user knows that the at least one coupling plate has been inserted deep enough.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the first section and the second section of the at least one coupling plate may be mirrored relative to a transversal axis of the at least one coupling plate so that a user of the at least one coupling plate has the choice to employ fixation means on either side of the at least one coupling plate. More generally, the at least one coupling plate may be designed with symmetrical features in order to be mounted more easily, without the user having to be concerned about which of the first section or the second section should be inserted first and into which of the first module or the second module.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the first module and the second module are a first profile module and a second profile module, respectively.

[0041] In this way, the first module and the second module can easily be modulated in length by using only a desired length from an extruded profile. Preferably, the first profile module and the second profile module have the same profile to provide for continuity in the trunking system.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment, the trunking system is a luminaire trunking system, and wherein the first module and / or the second module include a light source.

[0043] Examples of a lamp trunking system and an installation system thereof, as described in PCT patent application WO 2021 / 094619 Al in the name of the applicant, the content of which is included by reference, would benefit from the use of the assembly technique described above employing such coupling plate.

[0044] In typical embodiments of the invention the first and second module are straight extruded profiles. However, it is also possible to join a first and second module of which one or both is / are curved profile(s). This may either be achieved by providing a straight end part to the curved profile, so that the coupling plates can still be flat or by giving the coupling plates a suitable curvature.

[0045] In an embodiment, a driving means may be provided to the second module and may be configured for driving the light source of the first module, and optionally another electronic component maybe provided to the first module and / or the second module. In another embodiment, both the first module and the second module are provided with light sources and / or driving means.

[0046] Depending on embodiments, the another electronic component comprises one or more among the following;

[0047] - a camera unit;

[0048] - a laser device;

[0049] - a radar device;

[0050] - a microphone;

[0051] - a movement detector;

[0052] - a light emitting device such as an ultraviolet (UV) light or an infrared (IR) light or a light for light fidelity (Li-Fi) communication;

[0053] - a panic button;

[0054] - a pollution sensor;

[0055] - a visibility sensor;

[0056] - a sound sensor;

[0057] - a temperature sensor;

[0058] - a spraying / sanitizing device;

[0059] - power management circuitry;

[0060] - telecommunication circuitry, such as base station circuitry;

[0061] - audio system management circuitry;

[0062] - a display;

[0063] - an antenna;

[0064] - WiFi circuitry,

[0065] - charger circuitry, e.g. phone charger circuitry or vehicle charger circuitry;

[0066] - an environmental sensor such as a microphone, or a detector of CO2, NOx, smoke, etc., and the associated circuitry;

[0067] - a human interface device (HID) and the associated circuitry, e.g. a camera, a loudspeaker, a button, a touch screen, etc.

[0068] - repeater circuitry, e.g. a WiFi repeater;

[0069] - a sign, such as a publicity banner;

[0070] - a socket, such as an electrical socket.

[0071] According to a preferred embodiment, the first module and / or the second module include a plurality of plate insertion rails configured for guiding and maintaining the at least one coupling plate inserted into the first module and / or the second module, respectively.In this manner, the at least one coupling plate is maintained laterally by the plurality of plate insertion rails, while the first fixation means and the second fixation means maintain the at least one coupling plate transversally, or vice versa; thereby securing the at least one coupling plate in all dimensions.

[0072] Depending on embodiments, the plurality of plate insertion rails may be oriented vertically or horizontally relative to a mounting position of the trunking system.

[0073] According to a desired embodiment, the at least one coupling plate includes a pair of coupling plates.

[0074] In doing so, play between the first module and the second module around an axis substantially perpendicular to the thickness of the at least one coupling plate is diminished. Preferably, the pair of coupling plates are arranged substantially parallel to one another.

[0075] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first fixation means includes a first bolt, and / or the second fixations means includes a second bolt. The first fixation means includes a first nut configured for cooperating with the first bolt, and / or the second fixation means includes a second nut configured for cooperating with the second bolt.

[0076] According to a preferred embodiment, the first module and / or the second module include a plurality of nut insertion rails configured for guiding and maintaining the first nut and / or the second nut, respectively, inserted into the first module and / or the second module, respectively.

[0077] In this way, the first bolt and / or the second bolt are secured and fixed in position thanks to the first nut and / or the second nut, and the first nut and / or the second nut are prevented from moving laterally due to the plurality of nut insertion rails; thereby increasing the robustness of the coupling.

[0078] The skilled person will understand that the hereinabove described technical considerations and advantages for embodiments of a trunking system also apply to the below described corresponding coupling plate embodiments, mutatis mutandis.

[0079] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a coupling plate. The coupling plate is for coupling the first module and the second module of a trunking system as described above.The coupling plate may be defined by a plate length (Lp) and a plate width (wp) and may comprise a first section and a second section. The first section is configured for being inserted into the first module of the trunking system in a direction of the plate length. The first section includes a first fixation slot extending from an edge of the at least one coupling plate along the plate width, said first fixation slot configured for cooperating with a first fixation means of the trunking system such as to fix the coupling plate relative to the first module. The second section is configured for being inserted into the second module of the trunking system in the direction of the plate length.

[0080] Preferably, the second section includes a second fixation slot extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate along the plate width, said second fixation slot configured for cooperating with a second fixation means of the trunking system such as to fix the coupling plate relative to the second module.

[0081] Preferably, the coupling plate is made in stainless steel. The shape of the coupling plate may be laser-cut, and optionally, a blanking tool is employed, as well as rumbling in order to remove roughness of the edges of the coupling plate.

[0082] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0083] The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate presently preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments of devices of the present invention. The above and other advantages of the features and objects of the invention will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0084] Figure 1 illustrates a side-view of an embodiment of a coupling plate according to the invention; Figures 2a &2b show an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a trunking system according to the invention and a sectional view thereof, respectively;.

[0085] Figure 3 depicts a partially cut view of another embodiment of a trunking system according to the invention, and Figure 3a illustrates a detailed view of a portion of Figure 3.

[0086] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0087] Figure 1 illustrates a side-view of an embodiment of a coupling plate 10 according to the present invention. The coupling plate 10 is for coupling a first module and a second module of a trunking system (cf. Figure 2). The coupling plate 10 of the embodiment of Fig.1 is defined by a plate length (Lp) and a plate width (wp) and comprises: a first section 10a; and a second section 10b. The platelength may be between 60 and 100 mm, preferably between 75 and 80 mm; the plate width may be between 20 and 40 mm, preferably between 25 and 35 mm; and the plate thickness may be between 2 and 5 mm.

[0088] The first section 10a is configured for being inserted into the first module in a direction of the plate length. The first section 10a includes a first fixation slot 11 extending from an edge of the coupling plate 10 along the plate width. The first fixation slot 11 is configured for cooperating with a first fixation means such as to fix the coupling plate 10 relative to the first module. The first fixation slot 11 is shaped in Fig.l as a rectangle with rounded corners. The skilled person will understand that such shape is for practical manufacturing reasons and that the fixation slot 11 may be shaped differently while still providing the required function. Essentially, the fixation slot 11 should include a vertical internal surface against which a first bolt of the first fixation means, for example, may press against. Further, in the embodiment of Fig.1 , the first section includes a manipulation aperture 15, preferably a finger aperture. The manipulation aperture 15 may be defined by a through-hole, such as a circular through-hole, through the first section 10a of the coupling plate.

[0089] The second section 10b is configured for being inserted into the second module in the direction of the plate length. The second section 10b includes a second fixation slot 12 extending from the edge of the coupling plate 10 along the plate width. The second fixation slot 12 is configured for cooperating with a second fixation means such as to fix the coupling plate 10 relative to the second module. In the embodiment of Fig.l, the second fixation slot 12 has substantially the same shape as the first fixation slot 11. The skilled person will understand that the second fixation slot 12 may also have a shape different from the one of the first fixation slot 11 as long as it provides the required function.

[0090] In addition, the second fixation slot 12 may include a pulling corner 14 at the edge of the coupling plate 10, said pulling corner 14 being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile.

[0091] Preferably, the pulling corner 14 is provided to a corner of the second fixation slot 12 in a direction opposite from the first section 10a. Additionally or alternatively, the second section 10b may include one or more outer insertion corners 16, each of said one or more outer insertion corners 16 being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile, two outer insertion corners 16 with a rounded profile in Fig.1.

[0092] The second section 10b may also include one or more aligning means 18a, 18b configured for aligning the coupling plate 10 at a predetermined insertion depth relative to the second module. Additionally or alternatively, the first section 10a may include one or more aligning means configured for aligning the coupling plate 10 at a predetermined insertion depth relative to the first module. Depending on embodiment, the one or more aligning means 18a, 18b may comprise markings on the surface of the coupling plate 10, protrusions, depressions, and / or slits in thecoupling plate 10, a pair of slits 18a, 18b in Fig.l. Typically, the one or more aligning means 18a, 18b are indicative of a level to be reached relative to an extremity of the second module. Further, the second section 10b may include a holding hole 17 configured for cooperating with a holding means, preferably a screwdriver, such as to hold the coupling plate 10 in place relative to the second module during assembly. In order to do so, the holding hole 17 may be circular in shape.

[0093] In the embodiment of Fig.l, the first fixation slot 11 and the second fixation slot 12 extend from the same edge of the coupling plate 10. In another embodiment, the first fixation slot 11 and the second fixation 12 slot may extend from opposite edges of the coupling plate 10. In yet another embodiment, the first fixation slot 11 and / or the second fixation slot 12 may be mirrored relative to a main axis of the coupling plate 10 so that a user of the coupling plate 10 has the choice to employ fixation means on either side of the coupling plate 10.

[0094] The coupling plate 10 of Fig.l further comprises a third section 10c arranged between the first section 10a and the second section 10b. The third section 10c is configured for allowing an elastic displacement of the first section 10a with respect to the second section 10b around an axis AEL substantially perpendicular to the coupling plate 10a. To implement the possibility of this elastic displacement, the third section 10c may include at least one slot 13, preferably a plurality of zig zag slots, extending from the edge of the coupling plate 10 along the plate width. In an embodiment, a single slot is formed in the third section 10c to allow the elastic displacement; and optionally an inner extremity of the slot may form a circular opening to better spread stress at this point. In the embodiment of Fig.l, the at least one slot 13 includes an even number of slots, more specifically two slots, extending substantially parallel to each other from opposite edges of the coupling plate 10 in an alternating manner, i.e. zig zag slots.

[0095] Figure 2a shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a trunking system according to the present invention. Figure 2b shows a sectional view of that embodiment looking towards a first module 100 of the trunking system. The trunking system comprises: the first module 100; a second module 200; at least one coupling plate 10; a first fixation means 110; and a second fixation means 210. The at least one coupling plate 10 employed in the embodiment of the trunking system of Fig.2 is similar to the coupling plate described relative to Fig.l.

[0096] As can be seen in Fig.2a, the first module 100 and the second module 200 may be a first profile module and a second profile module, respectively. More specifically, a main structural part of the first profile module and of the second profile module, such as an external housing portion, may be manufactured by extrusion. Furthermore, in the embodiment of Fig.2a, the first profile module 100 and the second profile module 200 have the same profile to provide for continuity in the trunking system.The trunking system may be a luminaire trunking system, and the first module and / or the second module may include a light source. In an embodiment, a driving means may be provided to the second module 200 and may be configured for driving the light source of the first module 100, and optionally another electronic component may be provided to the first module 100 and / or the second module 200. In another embodiment, both the first module 100 and the second module 200 are provided with light sources and / or driving means. Depending on embodiments, the another electronic component comprises one or more among the following;

[0097] - a camera unit;

[0098] - a laser device;

[0099] - a radar device;

[0100] - a microphone;

[0101] - a movement detector;

[0102] - a light emitting device such as an ultraviolet (UV) light or an infrared (IR) light or a light for light fidelity (Li-Fi) communication;

[0103] - a panic button;

[0104] - a pollution sensor;

[0105] - a visibility sensor;

[0106] - a sound sensor;

[0107] - a temperature sensor;

[0108] - a spraying / sanitizing device;

[0109] - power management circuitry;

[0110] - telecommunication circuitry, such as base station circuitry;

[0111] - audio system management circuitry;

[0112] - a display;

[0113] - an antenna;

[0114] - WiFi circuitry,

[0115] - charger circuitry, e.g. phone charger circuitry or vehicle charger circuitry;

[0116] - an environmental sensor such as a microphone, or a detector of CO2, NOx, smoke, etc., and the associated circuitry;

[0117] - a human interface device (HID) and the associated circuitry, e.g. a camera, a loudspeaker, a button, a touch screen, etc.

[0118] - repeater circuitry, e.g. a WiFi repeater;

[0119] - a sign, such as a publicity banner;

[0120] - a socket, such as an electrical socket.The first fixation means 110 is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate 10 to the first module 100. The second fixation means 210 is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate 10 to the second module 200.

[0121] As shown in Figs.2a-2b, the first fixation means 110 may comprise a first bolt 111, one for each of the pair of coupling plates 10. A first fixation slot 11 of the coupling plate 10 is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the first bolt 111 relative to the first fixation slot 11. Preferably, a ratio of an engagement length of the first bolt 111 over a depth of the first fixation slot 11 is between 60 and 90%, more preferably between 70 and 80%.

[0122] Additionally, a width of the first fixation slot 11 may be between 4 and 6 mm. In addition or alternatively, the second fixation means 210 may comprise a second bolt 211, one for each of the pair of coupling plates 10. A second fixation slot 12 of the coupling plate 10 is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the second bolt 211 relative to the second fixation slot 12. Preferably, a ratio of an engagement length of the second bolt 211 over a depth of the second fixation slot 12 is between 60 and 90%, more preferably between 70 and 80%. Additionally, a width of the second fixation slot 12 may be between 4 and 6 mm.

[0123] To keep the pair of coupling plates 10 in place laterally, in the embodiment of Fig.2, the first module 100 and the second module 200 include a plurality of plate insertion rails 120, 220 configured for guiding and maintaining the at least one coupling plate 10 inserted into the first module 100 and the second module 200, respectively. More specifically, a plate insertion rail of the plurality of plate insertion rails 120, 220 is formed by a pair of walls extending substantially parallel to each other. Another plate insertion rail is implemented opposite the plate insertion rail of the plurality of plate insertion rails 120, 220 so that a coupling plate of the at least one coupling plate 10 is engaging with the plurality of plate insertion rails 120, 220 on both of its longitudinal edges. Depending on embodiments, the plurality of plate insertion rails 120, 220 may be oriented vertically or horizontally, vertically in Fig.2, relative to a mounting position of the trunking system.

[0124] The first fixation means 110 of the embodiment of Figs.2a-2b also includes a first nut 112 configured for cooperating with the first bolt 111, and the second fixation means 210 includes a second nut 212 configured for cooperating with the second bolt 211. The first module 100 and the second module 200 further include a plurality of nut insertion rails 130, 230 configured for guiding and maintaining the first nut 112 and the second nut 212, respectively, inserted into the first module 100 and the second module 200, respectively. More specifically, the first nut 112 and the second nut 212 have parallelepipedal shapes, and the plurality of nut insertion rails 130, 230 are provided in alignment with the plurality of plate insertion rails 130, 230.

[0125] To couple the first module 100 and the second module 200 together using the pair of coupling plates 10, the first sections 10a of the coupling plates 10 are first inserted into the plurality of insertion rails 120 of the first module. The first nuts 112 are then inserted into theplurality of nut insertion rails 130 of the first module 100 and the coupling plates 10 are fixed in place using the first bolts 111 being tightened to the first nuts 112 and engaging with the first fixation slots 11 of the coupling plates 10. The second module 200 is then inserted over the second sections 10b of the coupling plates 10 with the plurality of insertions rails 220 of the second module guiding the operation. Similarly as on the side of the first module 100, the second nuts 212 are inserted into the plurality of nut insertion rails 230 of the second module 200 and the second nuts 211 are used. The extremities of the second nuts 211 will be pushing against the pulling corners 14 (cf. Figure 1) of the second sections 10b, thereby closing the gap between the first module 100 and the second module 200, optionally helped by the elastic displacement and the restoring force of the third sections 10c. When the second nuts 211 are finally tightened, the first module 100 and the second module 200 of the trunking system are coupled.

[0126] Finally, to complete luminaire trunking system, a light module 300 provided with light sources may be inserted and snap-fitted in place through the bottom opening of the first and second modules 100, 200 or retained within the opening using other fixing means. And a light diffuser 400 may be employed to protect the light sources of the light module 300 also using snap-fit fixations.

[0127] Figure 3 depicts a partially cut view of another embodiment of a trunking system according to the present invention. Figure 3a illustrates a detailed view of a portion of Figure 3. The trunking system comprises: a first module 100’; a second module 200’; at least one coupling plate 10’; a first fixation means 110’; and a second fixation means 210’. As can be seen in Fig.3, the first module 100’ and the second module 200’ may be a first profile module and a second profile module, respectively. More specifically, a main structural part of the first profile module and of the second profile module, such as an external housing portion, may be manufactured by extrusion. Furthermore, in the embodiment of Fig.3, the first profile module 100’ and the second profile module 200’ have the same profile to provide for continuity in the trunking system.

[0128] The at least one coupling plate 10” of the embodiment of Fig.3 is defined by a plate length and a plate width and comprises: a first section 10a’; and a second section 10b’. The first section 10a’ is configured for being inserted into the first module 100’ in a direction of the plate length. The first section 10a’ includes a first fixation slot 11’ extending from an edge of the coupling plate 10’ along the plate width. The first fixation slot 11’ is configured for cooperating with a first fixation means 110’ such as to fix the coupling plate 10’ relative to the first module 100’.

[0129] The second section 10b’ is configured for being inserted into the second module 200’ in the direction of the plate length. The second section 10b’ includes a second fixation slot 12’ extending from the edge of the coupling plate 10’ along the plate width. The second fixation slot 12’ is configured for cooperating with a second fixation means 210’ such as to fix the coupling plate 10’ relative to the second module 200’. Further, in the embodiment of Fig.3, the first section10a’ includes a manipulation aperture 15’, preferably a finger aperture. The manipulation aperture 15’ may be defined by a through-hole, such as a circular through-hole, through the first section 10a’ of the coupling plate.

[0130] As described above, the first fixation means 110’ is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate 10’ to the first module 100’, and the second fixation means 210’ is configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate 10’ to the second module 200’. Two coupling plates 10’ may be employed substantially parallel to each other to couple the first module 100’ and the second module 200’.

[0131] As shown in Fig.3 and Fig. 3A, the first fixation means 110’ may comprise a first grub screw 111’, one for each of the pair of coupling plates 10’ . A first fixation slot 11’ of the coupling plate 10’ extends across a width of the at least one coupling plate 10’. The first fixation slot 11’ presents a straight outline and is configured for having a bottom with which the first grub screw 111’ will engage during tightening. Preferably, a tip of the first grub screw 111’ is conical to match with a conical bottom of the first fixation slot 11’. The first grub screw 111’ is configured for engaging with the bottom of the first fixation slot 11 ’ when being tightened.

[0132] In addition or alternatively, the second fixation means 210’ may comprise a second grub screw 211’, one for each of the pair of coupling plates 10’. A second fixation slot 12’ of the coupling plate 10’ is configured for extending along a length (or depth) greater than an engagement length of the second grub screw 211’ relative to the second fixation slot 12’. More specifically, in Fig.3, an internal surface of the second fixation slot 12’ is defined by an oblique surface extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate. Due to a cone-shaped tip of the second grub screw 211’, when tightening the second grub screw 211’, the at least one coupling plate 10’ will be pulled towards the second module 200’ due to the pushing of the tip of the second grub screw 211’ against the oblique surface of the second fixation slot 12’. When the extremities of the first module 100’ and the second module 200’ will abut, further tightening of the second grub screw 211’ will not be possible anymore.

[0133] To keep the pair of coupling plates 10’ in place laterally, in the embodiment of Fig.3, the first module 100’ and the second module 200’ include a plurality of plate insertion rails 120’, 220’ configured for guiding and maintaining the at least one coupling plate 10’ inserted into the first module 100’ and the second module 200’, respectively. More specifically, a plate insertion rail of the plurality of plate insertion rails 120’, 220’ is formed by a pair of walls extending substantially parallel to each other. Another plate insertion rail is implemented opposite the plate insertion rail of the plurality of plate insertion rails 120’, 220’ so that a coupling plate of the at least one coupling plate 10’ is engaging with the plurality of plate insertion rails 120’, 220’ on both of its longitudinal edges. Depending on embodiments, the plurality of plate insertion rails 120’, 220’ may be oriented vertically or horizontally, vertically in Fig.3, relative to a mounting position of the trunking system.The first fixation means 110’ of the embodiment of Fig.3 also includes a first nut 112’ configured for cooperating with the first grub screw 111’, and the second fixation means 210’ includes a second nut 212’ configured for cooperating with the second grub screw 211’. The first module 100’ and the second module 200’ further include a plurality of nut insertion rails 130’, 230’ configured for guiding and maintaining the first nut 112’ and the second nut 212’ , respectively, inserted into the first module 100’ and the second module 200’, respectively. More specifically, the first nut 112’ and the second nut 212’ have parallelepipedal shapes, and the plurality of nut insertion rails 130’, 230’ are provided in alignment with the plurality of plate insertion rails 130’, 230’.

[0134] Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A trunking system comprising:a first module (100);a second module (200);at least one coupling plate (10);a first fixation means (110) configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate (10) to the first module (100);a second fixation means (210) configured for fixing the at least one coupling plate (10) to the second module (200);wherein the at least one coupling plate (10) is defined by a plate length (Lp) and a plate width (wp) and comprises:a first section (10a) configured for being inserted into the first module (100) in a direction of the plate length (Lp), wherein the first section (10a) includes a first fixation slot (11) extending from an edge of the at least one coupling plate (10) along the plate width (wp), said first fixation slot (11) configured for cooperating with the first fixation means (110) such as to fix the at least one coupling plate (10) relative to the first module (100);a second section (10b) configured for being inserted into the second module (200) in the direction of the plate length (Lp), wherein preferably the second section (10b) includes a second fixation slot (12) extending from the edge of the at least one coupling plate (10) along the plate width (wp), said second fixation slot (12) configured for cooperating with the second fixation means (210) such as to fix the at least one coupling plate (10) relative to the second module (200).

2. The trunking system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one coupling plate (10) further comprises:a third section (10c) arranged between the first section (10a) and the second section (10b), said third section (10c) configured for allowing an elastic displacement of the first section (10a) with respect to the second section (10b) around an axis (AEL) substantially perpendicular to the coupling plate (10).

3. The trunking system according to claim 2, wherein the third section (10c) includes at least one slot (13), preferably a plurality of zig zag slots (13), extending from the edge of the atleast one coupling plate (10) along the plate width (wp) to allow the elastic displacement of the first section (10a) with respect to the second section (10b).

4. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first fixation means comprises a first bolt or screw; and wherein the first fixation slot (11) is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the first bolt or screw relative to the first fixation slot (11).

5. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second fixation means comprises a second bolt or screw; and wherein the second fixation slot (12) is configured for extending along a length greater than an engagement length of the second bolt or screw relative to the second fixation slot (12).

6. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second fixation slot (12) includes a pulling corner (14) at the edge of the coupling plate (10), said pulling corner (14) being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile.

7. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first section (10a) includes a manipulation aperture (15), preferably a finger aperture.

8. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second section (10b) includes one or more outer insertion corners (16), each of said one or more outer insertion corners (16) being defined by a rounded and / or angled profile.

9. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second section (10b) includes one or more aligning means (18a, 18b) configured for aligning the coupling plate (10) at a predetermined insertion depth relative to the second module.

10. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second section (10b) includes a holding hole (17) configured for cooperating with a holding means, preferably a screwdriver, such as to hold the coupling plate in place relative to the second module during assembly.

11. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first module (100) and the second module (200) are a first profile module and a second profile module, respectively.

12. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the trunking system (1000) is a luminaire trunking system, and wherein the first module (100) and / or the second module (200) include a light source.

13. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first module (100) and / or the second module (200) include a plurality of plate insertion rails (120, 220) configured for guiding and maintaining the at least one coupling plate (10) inserted into the first module (100) and / or the second module (200), respectively.

14. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the at least one coupling plate (10) includes a pair of coupling plates (10).

15. The trunking system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first fixation means (110) includes a first bolt (111), and / or wherein the second fixations means (210) includes a second bolt (211); and wherein the first fixation means (110) includes a first nut (112) configured for cooperating with the first bolt (111), and / or wherein the second fixation means (110) includes a second nut (112) configured for cooperating with the second bolt (211).

16. The trunking system according to claim 15, wherein the first module (100) and / or the second module (200) include a plurality of nut insertion rails (130, 230) configured for guiding and maintaining the first nut (112) and / or the second nut (212), respectively, inserted into the first module (100) and / or the second module (200), respectively.

17. A coupling plate for coupling the first module and the second module of a trunking system according to any one of the previous claims.

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