CA2700924C

CA2700924C - Magnetically attached luminaire

Info

Publication number: CA2700924C
Application number: CA2700924A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Robert Kraus; Klaus Burkard; John D. Mitchell, Jr.; John P. Sanroma
Original assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc
Current assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
Priority date: 2007-09-28
Filing date: 2008-09-26
Publication date: 2013-02-05
Anticipated expiration: 2028-09-26
Also published as: WO2009043561A3; EP2205902A2; CA2700924A1; WO2009043561A2; DE102008024776A1; EP2205902B1; CN101836041A

Abstract

Disclosed is a luminaire comprising at least one magnetic electrical connection. The mount is provided with at least one first group of electrical contacts and a second group of electrical contacts. An electrical potential can be applied between at least one contact of the first group and at least one contact of the second group. Each contact is designed as a support surface for supporting a magnetic element. A lighting system is equipped with at least one luminaire and at least one mount. At least one electrical connection of the luminaire is magnetically attached to a contact of the mount while another electrical connection of the luminaire is connected to another contact of the mount, an electrical potential being applicable between said two contacts of the mount.

Description

Magnetically Attached Luminaire The invention relates to a luminaire, a frame for the luminaire and lighting systems comprised of luminaires and frames and more particularly to lighting systems having insertable and removable light modules such that the quantity, direction and/or characteristics of the light emitted from the system may readily be varied.

Until now luminaires, particularly lamps have been held mechanically and contacted electronically in the lighting system with clamps or mounts, for example. This is unfavorable, however, because the mechanical mounting by comparison requires too much installation space and moreover, the resolution and refastening of the luminaire is costly for a large number of lighting luminaires.

In modern lighting systems, it is desirable to have a great deal of flexibility in the user's ability to control the quantity, direction and characteristics of the light emitted from the system. In theater settings, one is accustomed to observing a number of light fixtures capable of directing light of varying intensities, color and other characteristics onto the stage. In commercial settings, adjustable reflector lamps and track lights are frequently employed to illuminate merchandise displays. In office and residential settings, track lights are typically used to direct light to a particular work area or for visual effect. While these systems are flexible, they have disadvantages. One disadvantage is that they are relatively large in the sense that the light fixtures are conspicuous. In many applications, such as in a display case for jewelry or other fine wares, it is desirable for the lighting system to be as inconspicuous as possible. In applications where the appearance of the lighting system itself contributes to its overall aesthetics, there are additional design and production costs. Another disadvantage is that while these systems are flexible, they may be cumbersome to adjust for different lighting requirements. In many cases, the light fixtures are relatively heavy. To move, add or remove a light fixture with a mechanical connector, a tool may be required and, in some cases, a new electrical connection may be required. Even where the light fixture may be rotatably mounted, the base of the light fixture typically is moveable only in a single dimension.
Lastly, there is the disadvantage that these systems are relatively costly.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,509, issued on October 13, 1992, to Wulfman et al., describes a low-voltage track lighting system wherein the light fixture is mounted on the track by means of magnetic force, and electrical power is conveyed from the track to the fixture by means of physical contacts between the electrical leads of the track and fixture.
Wulfman et al. teaches a conventional track-lighting system, i.e., a number of light fixtures movably mounted on a linear track. The light fixtures of Wulfman et al. are mounted on a triangular bracket. Electrical power is transmitted from the bracket to the housing of the fixture by means of electrical contacts located on two sides of the triangular bracket and two sides of the matching angular recess of the housing. The track and light fixtures of Wulfman et al. are purely functional in design, i.e., to provide and direct light.

It is an object of the invention to obviate the deficiencies of the prior art.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide the possibility of a simple and space saving installation of luminaires.

Another object of the invention is to enhance lighting systems and a user's ability to control lighting systems.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a lighting system that can employ incandescent, halogen, LED and fluorescent light sources.

A further object of the invention is to provide a lighting system capable of being fabricated into numerous three-dimensional solid shapes, e.g., parallelepipeds, spheres, polyhedra.

These objects are accomplished with a lurinaire, a frame and lighting systems according to the respective independent claims. Preferred embodiments of the invention are particularly taken from the dependent claims.

In one aspect of the invention, the luminaire, e.g. a lamp, is equipped with at least one magnetically attached electrical terminal. As a result, the terminal can be easily attached to a corresponding magnetic or magnetizable electrical contact and is removable and space saving.

In the general case, only one electrical terminal must be magnetically attached while a second terminal of the luminaire can be pushed, for example using pressure force, onto a corresponding electrical contact, whereby the pressure force will also be effected by the magnetic attraction of the other contact. However, it is preferable that the luminaire is equipped with at least two, ideally two exactly, magnetically attached electrical terminals.

Preferably, the single electrical terminal is permanently magnetic, i.e. the electrical terminal has at least permanently magnetic areas, which generate sufficient magnetic strength for attachment of the luminaire.

Preferably, a contact surface of the electrical terminal is a portion of the magnet.
Particularly preferable is an electrical terminal with a base that provides the contact surface and is made of an electrically conductive, permanently magnetic material.

The at least one electrical terminal has a flat contact for minimizing contact resistance and maintaining a fixed attachment.

The luminaire may have one or more individual light sources, e.g. one or more spotlights and/or one or more floodlights.

It is especially preferable that at least one of the individual light sources is a LED, particularly a white LED, e.g. a conversion LED.

However, it may also be preferable if the luminaire has LEDs of at least two colors, especially if the LEDs of at least two colors are selectively controlled.

It is especially preferable that a white mixed light is producible using the LEDs of at least two different colors. For this purpose, at least three LEDs are preferable in red, green and blue.

The luminaire, however, may include at least one halogen lamp as an individual light source.

It may be preferable to arrange the luminaire in several ways if a soluble or non-soluble adapter is insertable between the at least one electrical terminal and the at least one light source, particularly between the at least one electrical terminal and a luminaire housing. The adapter may be designed particularly for spacing and local alignment of the luminaire and include, for example, flexible electrical connection lines, e.g. a 'swan neck', swivel, spacer, etc.

A luminaire with a flexible intermediate piece located between the terminals and the at least one individual light source is preferred for the alignment of the beam direction, so that the beam direction of the at least one individual light source is adjustable by bending. The flexible intermediate piece is preferably part of an adapter. The flexible intermediate piece may, for example, have separate flexible terminal legs or wires, possibly even a swan neck. Rotating elements may be introduced as an alternative, e.g.
using joints.

The luminaire preferably has a reflector for the alignment of the emitted light.

The at least one individual light source may be covered with a transparent or translucent element for protection of the luminaire. Translucent elements also increase the intensity and color homogeneity.

A luminaire that is encapsulated up to the terminals is preferable, especially for use as a bulk material. Preferably, the luminaire then has small dimensions, e.g. a maximum expansion between 1 mm and 1 cm.

A luminaire with an essentially spherical contour is preferable for simple contacting, preferably with a level or concave partial surface, whereby a contact surface of the at least one electrical terminal lies in the area of the level or concave partial surface.

In order to avoid failures, it is preferable that the terminal of the luminaire has at least two electrical terminals of opposed magnetic polarity. As a result, the terminals can be magnetically distinguished, thereby providing the inherent possibility of avoiding faulty connections.

It can be advantageous, particularly for the simple arrangement of the luminaire, if this is operable with DC voltage.

It also possible to operate the luminaire using AC voltage as an alternative.

The luminaire can also have a control for controlling the associated at least one individual light source in order to govern the emitting properties of the luminaire.

In particular, the control can have a dimming function that when activated minimizes the luminosity of at least one luminaire.

Using the control, groups of LEDs of the same color in the luminaire in particular, an LED cluster for example, may be selectively controllable for changing the luminescent color of the luminaire. The luminaire can then have a variable color characteristic.

The luminaire can also have receiving means communicatively coupled with the control for receiving control signals. As a result, remote control of the luminaire is possible.

The receiving means may in particular be a radio antenna and/or IR sensor.

Particularly, the control can be selectively addressable so that a luminaire or a group of luminaires, e.g. of the same color, is individually controllable.

The frame is provided with at least one first group of electrical contacts and a second group of electrical contacts. An electrical potential can be applied between at least one contact of the first group and at least one contact of the second group. Each contact is designed as a support surface for supporting a magnetic terminal element.

The frame can be particularly designed as a base plate with a lateral dimensioning of no more than 1 m, e.g. as a rigid or flexible square plate with dimensions of 40 cm x 40 cm.
The terminal element can particularly correspond to an electrical terminal of the luminaire described above.

In one arrangement, DC voltage is applicable between at least two groups or their associated contacts.

In an alternative arrangement, AC voltage is applicable between at least two groups or their associated contacts.

In a further arrangement, the electrical contacts are divided into two groups and arranged in a checkerboard pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts in both groups.

In yet another alternative or additional arrangement, the electrical contacts are divided into two groups and arranged in a ring pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts in both groups.

In yet another alternative or additional arrangement, the electrical contacts are divided into two groups and arranged in a striped pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts in both groups.

In yet another alternative or additional arrangement, the electrical contacts are divided into two groups and arranged in a grid pattern, such that the grid constitutes a contact of the first group and the contacts of the second group, the surfaces of which are enclosed by the grid.

In still another arrangement, the frame is provided with multiple pairs of contacts, whereby a contact of each pair belongs to the first group and a contact of each pair belongs to the second group. The pairs are preferably arranged in a regular pattern on the frame.

The frame is preferably provided with multiple pairs of contacts, whereby an equal, electrical potential is not necessarily applicable between the contacts of a pair.

In one arrangement, the form of the contacts differs between at least two pairs, whereby contact pairs with different characteristics or different luminaires can be easily distinguished visually.

The frame can particularly be provided with at least three sets or types of one or more pairs in each case with contacts of different forms between the sets. As a result, contact pairs for LED lamps with different primary colors, e.g. red, green blue can be provided in particular, whereby the sets are particularly independently controllable.
Additional sets for additional colors, such as white or amber are realizable as well as for other luminaires, such as halogen lamps.

In general, a frame can be provided with a contact pattern such as this or others, namely a certain contact pattern or, for example, multiple juxtaposed contact patterns.

A frame is preferred on which the contacts are arranged on a common surface, e.g. a particularly flexible, or alternatively rigid, base plate. Contacts can be arranged on a flat surface in particular.

The contacts may also be designed in each case as electrically conductive cords or wires, particularly metal mesh. Large-surface mounting possibilities for luminaires result without large-surface mounting to a wall, ceiling etc. Therefore, a 'starry sky', for example, is easily achievable with an adhesive layer of cords. The cords can also be magnetic, even with varying designs of magnetic polarity.

The frame contacts can be magnetizable. However, it is preferable in order to avoid faulty connections that the contacts are magnetic; it is especially preferable that the magnetic polarity correlates with a group membership, particularly with a connection to the supply connection. The contacts can be either permanently magnetic or temporarily magnetic, e.g. using an electromagnet.

The frame is preferably expandable in at least one direction, particularly by connecting to an additional frame, particularly of the same type. The connected frames preferably require only one common power supply and/or control. For this purpose, the frame can be equipped with a connection means, particularly a locking means or plug device that enables a mechanical and electrical connection with the appropriate counter connection means of a second frame. The frame is provided preferably on one side with a connection means and on the opposite side a counter connection means.

In a further aspect of the invention, the lighting system is provided with at least one Iuminaire and at least one frame, whereby at least one electrical terminal of the luminaire is magnetically attached to a contact on the frame and an additional electrical terminal of the luminaire is connected with an additional contact on the frame, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between these two contacts on the frame.
The luminaire terminal, the frame contact, or both can be magnetic.

In one arrangement, an electrical terminal of the luminaire magnetically attaches to a contact on the frame and an additional electrical terminal of the luminaire magnetically attaches to an additional contact on the frame, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between these two contacts on the frame.

The lighting system is also preferably provided with at least one illuminant as described above and at least one frame as described above.

In order to avoid faulty connections, associated luminaire terminals and contacts on the frame contacts are preferably provided with a reverse magnetic polarity in each case on their contact surfaces.

For the simple and flexible control of different luminaires, different sets of frame contacts are preferably provided for different types of luminaires, particularly if different sets of frame contacts are provided for luminaires illuminated with a different color.

The lighting system can also be designed in such a way that the frame contacts of a set and the terminals of a luminaire provided for this purpose are formed in such a way that a contacting of terminals and contacts not intended for each other is avoided.

These objects are accomplished, by yet another aspect of the invention, by provision of a lighting system with removable light modules. The frame has a substantially flat surface and includes a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive channels. The removable light module includes a light source mounted on a base. The base has a substantially flat surface and includes a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive paths. The light source has first and second lead-in wires electrically connected to the first and second electrically conductive paths of the base.
The light module is mounted on the frame with the substantially flat surface of the module's base facing the substantially flat surface of the frame such that the light module is securely mounted on the frame by means of a magnetic attractive force acting between the magnetic material of the module and the magnetic material of the frame and such that the magnetic attractive force permits the light module to be manually removed from the frame.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a luminaire with one or more individual light sources and with at least two magnetically attachable electrical terminals, and with at least one LED that is one or both of white and colored as an individual light source, wherein the luminaire is encapsulated at least up to the at least two electrical terminals, and with a bendable intermediate piece between the terminals and the at least one individual light source such that the beam direction of the at least one individual light source is adjustable by bending, wherein the luminaire further comprises a frame with at least a first group of electrical contacts and a second group of electrical contacts, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between at least one contact of the first group and at least one contact of the second group, each of the contacts of the first group and the second group designed as a support surface for the support of the at least two magnetically attachable electrical terminals, wherein the first group and the second group are arranged in a grid pattern, whereby the grid constitutes a contact of the first group and the contacts of the second group, the surfaces of which are enclosed by the grid, such that one of the at least two electrical terminals is magnetically attached to a frame contact of the first group and the other of the at least two electrical terminals is magnetically attached to a frame contact of the second group, so that an electrical potential is applicable therebetween and a portion of each of the at least two electrical terminals has a respective opposing magnetic polarity compared to its respective frame contact, whereby the attached at least two electrical terminals and corresponding frame contents are formed so as to have a matching shape that permits magnetic attachment only with each other.

-9a-According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting system with removable light modules comprising: (a) a frame having a substantially flat surface, said frame including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive channels mounted on said surface; (b) a light module comprising a light source mounted on a base, said base having a substantially flat surface, said base including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive paths, said light source having first and second lead-in wires electrically connected to said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base; and (c) said light module being mounted on said frame with said substantially flat surface of said light module facing said substantially flat surface of said frame and said first path of said light module being in electrical contact with said first channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said second channel and said second path of said light module being in electrical contact with said second channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said first channel such that said light module is securely mounted on said frame by means of a magnetic attractive force acting between said magnetic material of said light module and said magnetic material of said frame and such that said magnetic attractive force permits said light module to be manually removed from said frame;
and wherein said light module includes first and second LEDs, said first LED
having a different polarity from said second LED.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting system with removable light modules comprising: (a) a frame having a substantially flat surface, said frame including an electrically conductive magnetic material and an electrically conductive channel mounted on said surface, said electrically conductive channel being electrically isolated from said frame; (b) a light module comprising a light source mounted on a base, said base having a substantially flat surface, said base including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive paths, said light source having first and second lead-in wires electrically connected to said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base; and (c) said light module being mounted on said frame with said substantially flat surface of said light module - 9b -facing said substantially flat surface of said frame and said first path of said light module being in electrical contact with said frame and electrically isolated from said channel of said frame and said second path of said light module being in electrical contact with said channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said frame such that said light module is securely mounted on said frame by means of a magnetic attractive force acting between said magnetic material of said light module and said magnetic material of said frame and such that said magnetic attractive force permits said light module to be manually removed from said frame; and wherein said light module includes first and second LEDs, said first LED having a different polarity from said second LED.

The invention is described in detail using schematic execution examples in the following figures. In doing so, similar or identical elements can be provided with the same reference symbol for better clarity.

FIG 1 is a side sectional view of a lighting system comprised of a luminaire and frame;

FIG 2 is a side sectional view of a wide section of the lighting system with multiple luminaires;

FIG 3 is a side sectional view of a lighting system, now encapsulated;
FIG 4 is a diagonal view of the lighting system from FIG 1;

FIG 5 is the top view of an additional luminaire frame;
FIG 6 is the top view of yet another luminaire frame;
FIG 7 is the top view of yet another luminaire frame;
FIG 8 is the top view of yet another luminaire frame;
FIG 9 is the top view of yet another luminaire frame;

- 9c -FIG 10 is a pictorial view of a lighting system according to an additional embodiment of the invention;

FIG 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the lighting system from FIG. 10 taken along line 2-2;

FIG 12 is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the invention;
FIG 13 is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a light module;

FIG 14 is a pictorial view of a frame for a lighting system;
FIG 15 is a view of a circular frame for a lighting system;

FIG 16A is a pictorial view of a spherical frame for a lighting system;

FIG 16B is a view of a spherical frame for a lighting system with a portion of the spherical surface cut away;

FIGs 17A and 18A are isometric views of three-dimensional frames for a lighting system in the shapes of an icosahedron and a dodecahedron, respectively; FIG 17B is a view of one triangular face of FIG 17A and FIG 18B is a view of one pentagonal face of FIG
18A;

FIG 19 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a lighting system with means for aligning the light module on the frame;

FIG 20 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the lighting system with means for insuring proper alignment and electrical polarity of the light module on the frame;

FIG 21 is a pictorial view of an embodiment of the invention mounted in a display case;
FIG 22 is a side sectional view of a lighting system 1 comprised of a LED
luminaire 2 and a frame, only part of which is shown, in the form of a base plate.

The LED luminaire 2 is provided with a white illuminating LED 4 as the light source, mounted on a housing 5 and laterally surrounded by a reflector 6 for beam guidance.
Mechanically flexible contact posts 8, each provided with a permanently magnetic base 9, lead out of the housing 5 to supply the LED 4 and a control circuit 7 for the LED 4 located in the housing 5 with power. The bases 9 serve for the electrical contacting and detachable mounting of the LED luminaire. The unit surrounding the housing 5 (with control 7), the LED 4 and the reflector 6 can also be referred to as LED
module 2a.

The level frame 3 comprises electrical contacts 11, 12 embedded in a frame material 10 with an exposed surface 13; therefore, they serve as electrical contact surfaces and support surfaces for the bases 9. The displayed contacts 11, 12 have a differing electrical polarity so that electrical power is tapped from the luminaire 2 over said contacts 11, 12 for operation of the LED 4.

The contacts 13 are designed in function as support surfaces 13 so that the magnetic bases 9 are able to attach to them flatly. For this purposes, contacts 11,12 comprise a permanently magnetic material, which has a magnetic polarity on contact surface 13 opposed to the magnetic polarity of the associated base 9. The contacts 11,12 exhibit opposing magnetic polarity regarding their contact surface 13 for alignment of the LED
luminaire 2. Therefore, with a DC supply to the contacts 11,12, a positive electrical potential of the left contact 11 can be connected with a positive magnetic polarity at its surface 13 and a lower electrical potential of the right contact 12 (e.g.
ground) can be connected with a negative magnetic polarity at its surface 13. Accordingly, a base 9, which is to be connected to a positive electrical potential, has a negative magnetic polarity on its contact surface; and a base 9, which is to be connected to a negative electrical potential, has a positive magnetic polarity on its contact surface.
A correct electrical polarity can thus be ensured, particularly with DC operation of the LED
luminaire 6, because in the case of incorrect orientation of the LED luminaire 2, its bases 9 and the contacts 11,12 repel each other and only attract with correct orientation. The magnetic polarity is marked with the symbols '+' and '-'.
Alternatively, the contacts of frame 3 or the bases 9 comprise a ferromagnetic material, particularly a ferrous material such as steel.

Contacting the LED luminaire 2 is thus especially easy and space saving.

The reflector 6 can be covered with a transparent cover 14 for protection of the LED 4.
The control circuit 7 can be laid out as a driver for the LED 4, particularly in AC
operation of the contacts 11,12. The control circuit 7 can also have different additional functions, for example a dimming function that when activated specifically minimizes the luminosity of the LED 4. An additional possible function is the ability to change the luminescent color of the luminaire using color variable luminaires, e.g. using a LED

color cluster comprising LEDs of various colors individually controllable.

The control circuit 7 has receiving means 15 with a radio antenna for receiving wirelessly transmitted radio control signals for activating the different functions. The receiving means 15 is communicatively coupled with the control circuit 7 so that the control circuit 7 can convert the control signals.

The control 7 is also selectively addressable, i.e. it converts commands that exhibit an appropriate identification code and does not convert commands lacking an appropriate identification code. LED luminaires 2 or groups of LED luminaires 2 with the same identification code can thus be specifically controlled. In this way, particularly groups with LEDs or luminaires of the same color can be selectively controlled, for example, in order to change the system's color impression, e.g. by turning on and/or turning off luminaires of a certain color.

FIG 2 shows the frame 3 in a wider view, in comparison to the view in FIG 1, with six contacts 11,12. The six contacts 11,12 are connected to a DC voltage source in such a way that they form a first group of contacts 11, which are connected to a positive terminal of the DC voltage source, as well as a second group of contacts 12, which are connected to a negative terminal of the DC voltage source. Each LED luminaire attaches magnetically with its terminals to a pair of contacts from the first group and the second group. The LED luminaires 2 are thus electrically connected in parallel.

A control circuit - not displayed here - for control of the luminaire 2 connected with the frame 3 can be connected with the frame 3. As a result, a dimming function that supplies all contacts or a selected subset of contacts with less power can be alternatively or additionally provided over said control circuit. The provision of a dimming function on the frame instead of on the luminaires is advantageous because dimming using a single control circuit is realizable and therefore especially cost-effective. In the tendency to reduce expenses, it is advantageous to realize as many functions over a single control circuit on the frame 3 as possible instead of over control circuits 7 on the luminaire. The controls 7 can work selectively in that only control signals are converted that are intended for the specific luminaire. In this way the luminosity of one of the luminaires 2 displayed may be dimmed to a data signal provisioned with a certain identification code while none of the other luminaires 2 react to the dimming command.
The control signals can be transferred, e.g. with a modulation of the frame signal.
Therefore, the control preferably has a corresponding data download function, e.g. a decoder.

Alternatively, the contacts 11,12 can also be connected differently. A
different type of power supply can also be used, e.g. an AC voltage source. In general, the frame can be equipped with a suitable power supply unit, e.g. with a transformer for converting from mains voltage into a supply voltage by using a rectifier if applicable.

FIG 3 displays the LED luminaire 2 from FIG 1 encapsulated in an encapsulating material 17, casting in particular.

The encapsulation 17 comprises a substantially spherical contour with a level underside. The contact surfaces 18 of the LED luminaire 2 bases 9 are exposed, i.e. the contact surface 18 of the respective electrical terminal 9 is exposed in the area of the level underside.

Encapsulation of the luminaire 2 in this way is advantageous because it can also be applied on the frame as a bulk material if the luminaire has a low extension.
By way of the round basic form, the luminaire 2 can roll on the frame until it sits on the level underside where it is held in place on the frame by the magnetic adhesive force. This is particularly advantageous if the magnetic polarity of the contact surfaces 18 of the bases is different and correlates with an associated magnetic polarity of the associated frame contact, as described in the example. It is hereby ensured that the bases 9 only attach to suitable frame contacts, e.g. connected with different voltage source terminals (DC or AC).

Alternatively, the shape of the encapsulation is not limited and can be, for example, block-shaped, discoidal or cylindrical and is achieved by casting. An encapsulation can also be achieved by using capsule shells, although their composition is complex in comparison.

FIG 4 shows LED luminaire 2 and how it is attached to a frame 19 that has two groups of contacts 20,21 between which a potential is applicable. The shape of the single contact 20 of the first group is grid-like, while the rectangular contacts 21 of the other group of the other potential are arranged in the spaces of the first contact 20. Of course, a rectangular shape is not mandatory; the contact 20 from the first group can in fact be diamond-shaped etc. In other words, the electrical contacts 20,21 are divided into two groups and arranged in a grid pattern, such that the grid constitutes a contact of the first group and the contacts of the second group, the surfaces of which are enclosed by the grid, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between contacts 20,21 of different groups.

The LED luminaire 2 displays the contact posts 8 in a bent state in which the beam direction of the luminaire 2 has been individually aligned by bending. As an alternative to the two contact posts, a swan neck with a thin, bendable pipe, for example, can be used, which carries/receives the electrical leads.

FIG 5 displays a frame 22 with concentric, circular contacts 23,24, each of which belongs to one of two groups with a potential difference between them, whereby contacts 23,24 of different groups alternate, i.e. an electrical potential is applicable between two juxtaposed contacts. In other words, the electrical contacts 23, 24 are divided into two groups and arranged in a ring pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts 23,24 in both groups, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between contacts 23,24 of different groups.

FIG 6 displays a frame 25 with juxtaposed, stripe-shaped contacts 26,27, each of which belongs to one of two groups with a potential difference between them, whereby contacts 23,24 of different groups alternate, i.e. an electrical potential is applicable between two juxtaposed contacts. In other words, the electrical contacts 26,27 are divided into two groups and arranged in a striped pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts 26,27 in both groups, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between contacts 26,27 of different groups.

FIG 7 displays a frame 28 with juxtaposed square contacts 26,27 in both directions, each of which belongs to one of two groups with a potential difference between them, whereby contacts 26,27 of different groups alternate, i.e. an electrical potential is applicable between two expanded, juxtaposed contacts 29,30. In other words, the electrical contacts 29,30 are divided into two groups and arranged in a checkerboard pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts 29,30 in both groups.

FIG 8 displays a frame 31 with multiple pairs of contacts 32,33 between which an electrical potential is applicable. In other words, each pair has a contact 32 of a first group and a contact 33 of a second group, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between cross-group contacts. This configuration has the advantage of high flexibility in the control of contacts 32,33, because each pair of contacts 32,33 is easily recognizable and can have an individual power connection in extreme cases, e.g. a constant current source. The associated LED luminaire can therefore do without its own control.

FIG 9 displays a frame 34 with multiple pairs of differently shaped contacts 35,36, 37,38 and 39,40. In other words, three pair groups are arranged on the frame 34 in a similar basic pattern, whereby the contacts 35,36, 37,38 and 39,40 of each pair group have the same shape and differ from group to group. Therefore, different types of luminaires may be employed, which can then be controlled and/or powered, particularly group-specific.
In this way, the contacts of a first pair group, e.g. with the rectangular contacts 35,36, may connect to a different power source with a higher supply voltage than the second pair group with the triangular contacts 37,38. The third pair group with the round contacts 39,40 may also be controlled differently and/or powered by a different source.
Alternatively or additionally, the contacts of a pair group may be adjusted to the terminals of luminaires of similar beam characteristics, e.g. to LED laps of the same color. The luminosity of a color can then be individually set using group-selective control of contacts 35 through 40. In order to exclude an incorrect assignment of luminaires to contact pairs, the contact surfaces of the contacts and the associated terminals may be shaped in such a way that they only fit with each other.

For purposes herein, the following definitions apply. A "removable light module" means a light module that may be mounted on, removed from, or relocated on the frame manually without use of tools or need for permanent manipulated electrical connects, such as a connection made with a screw, splice, wire nut, etc. The term "magnetic material" means a material that is either a permanent magnet or a material that is strongly attracted by a permanent magnet. A phrase stating that an article is mounted on a surface of an object includes an arrangement wherein the article is mounted within the object such that a surface of the article comprises or coincides with a portion of the surface of the object. The term "LED" means light-emitting diode, and the term "LED"
may include a current-limiting resistor electrically connected in series with the light-emitting diode. The term "low voltage" means about twenty-four volts or less;
the term "high voltage" means a voltage other than low voltage. The term "electrical polarity" or "polarity" means the direction in which a direct current flows, and the term "opposite polarity" or "different polarity" means the direction to that in which a direct current flows.
Referring now to the drawings with greater particularity, it should be noted that the orientation of the invention and emitted light shown in the drawings are by way of example and not limitation. In many applications, the light will be emitted substantially downward. FIG 10 shows lighting system 1010 comprising a frame 1012 and a removable light module 1014. Frame 1012 may be formed entirely from a magnetic material, such as iron, or from a non-magnetic material, such as plastic, with one or more pieces of magnetic material embedded in it. In embodiments where the frame is electrically conductive, dielectric coating 1016 (shown in more detail in FIG
11) may be used to insulate electrically conductive paths 1018 and 1020 from each other and from base 1026 of the frame. Electrically conductive channels 1018 and 1020 are thin electrically conductive stripes, e.g. copper foil. Terminals 1022 and 1024 provide means for connecting the lighting system 1010 to an external source of electrical power.
Where the frame is electrically conductive, the frame may serve as one of the electrically conductive channels, e.g. ground, particularly in low-voltage applications.
Light module 1014 has light source 1028 mounted on base 1030. The light source has lead-in wires 1036 and 1038 connected to electrically conductive paths 32 and 34 that make physical and electrical contact with channels 1029 and 1018, respectively, of frame 1012. In various aspects of the invention, light source 28 will be replaceably mounted on the base such that the light source, e.g. a light bulb, may be replaced at its end of life.

As discussed above, dielectric coating 31 (shown in more detail in FIG 11) may be used to insulate electrically conductive paths 1032 and 1034 from each other and from base 1030 of the frame. Electrically conductive paths 1032 and 1034 are formed from thin electrically conductive material, e.g. copper foil. Base 1030 may be formed entirely from a magnetic material, such as iron, or from a non-magnetic material, such as plastic, with one or more pieces of magnetic material embedded in it. The magnetic material of frame 1012 may be a permanent magnet that attracts the magnetic material of base 1030 or, conversely, the magnetic material of base 1030 may be a permanent magnet that will attract the magnetic material of from 1012. In either case, the magnetic attraction between light module 1014 and frame 1012 must be of sufficient strength to hold module 1014 securely on frame 1012 while still permitting the module to be mounted on, removed from, or relocated on frame 1012 manually without use of tools or need for permanent electrical connections.

A flexible circuit including channels 1018 and 1020 may serve as frame 1012.
The flex circuit with pressure-sensitive thermally conductive adhesive may be applied to any magnetic substrate material without dielectric treatment. The dielectric strength will be provided by the flex circuit material. This type of frame is particularly well suited for mounting under a sheet metal shelf of cabinet or the like or on a flex magnetic strip.

FIG 11 is an enlarged sectional view of lighting system 1010. FIG 11 illustrates the electrical circuit of lighting system 1010.

Systems 1010. As seen in FIG 1, electrical power from an external source is supplied across electrically conductive channels 1018 and 1020. FIG 11 shows channel 1018 in electrical contact with electrically conductive path 34, and channel 1020 in electrical contact with electrically conductive path 1032. Paths 1032 and 1034 connect to lead-in wires 1036 and 1038, respectively, of light source 1028. Dielectric coating 1031, e.g., an electronic grade porcelain enamel, electrically insulates paths 1032 and 1034 from each other and base 1030. Any number of conventional dielectric or resistive coating materials, such as, for example, porcelain enamel, glass, ceramic, organ electrically insulating materials, or glass/ceramic coatings, may be used in connection with the present invention. A dielectric coating may not be required with the use of magnets having high electrical resistance, e.g. ceramic magnets. However, such magnets must also have adequate thermal conductivity for their heat-sinking function as will be discussed below. To avoid the possibility of shorting the frame channels, width w (shown in FIG 11) between frame channels 1018 and 1020 should be wide enough to prevent either path 1032 or path 1034 from simultaneously touching both channels even if module 1014 is twisted on frame 1012.

Referring now to FIG 12, there is shown a lighting system 50 that has channels and 1020 located within electrically insulated grooves 1052 and 1054 of frame 1062.
Surface 1060 of frame 1062 may include dielectric coating 1016 outside grooves and 1054 to prevent electrical contact of paths 1032 or 1034 with frame 1062.
Dielectric material 1056 and 1058 can be formed from any suitable non-conductive material that may be the same as, or different from, the material of dielectric coating 1016. As discussed above, dielectric material 1056 and 1058 may not be required when paths 1032 and 1034 are electrically isolated from each other by virtue of the non-conductivity of the frame material surrounding grooves 1052 and 1054.

In the embodiments shown in FIGs 1-3, light source 28 preferably is a LED. LED
might modules are typically light, compact, and relatively rugged and inexpensive.
LED
embodiments of the invention are particularly well suited for display where the physical lighting systems are intended to be as compact and inconspicuous as possible.
The frame may be thin, e.g., a thin piece of steel, with the dielectric coating located only below the electrical contacts. The lighting modules may have a lower profile such that the overall lighting system is ideal for display applications. The frame may be formed in or by a surface of a structure, such as a shelf, display, case top, underside of a cabinet, etc. In a case where a frame has insufficient interior volume, a portion or all of the electrical-support and/or control devices may be located remotely.

The optimum voltage for driving a circuit with a plurality of LED light sources will depend on the number of light sources, their characteristics and arrangement in the circuit, and other circuit components. The current may be direct or alternating depending on the application. With an LED light source, the electrical power applied across terminals 1022 and 1024 of FIGs 1-3 is preferably about five volts direct current but, as will be discussed below, alternating current may be desired in some LED applications.
With tungsten-halogen lamps, such as MR-16 lamps frequently employed in track lighting, the voltage applied across terminals 1022 and 1024 is preferably about twelve volts. In either of these low-voltage embodiments, there is no danger of electrical shock resulting from exposed electrical channels 1018 and 1020.

However, other types of light sources, such as incandescent, tungsten-halogen, and fluorescent lamps, are within the scope of the invention. A step-down transformer may be used to reduce the voltage applied across terminals 1022 and 1024 where required, e.g., traditional tungsten-halogen track lighting. In high-voltage embodiments, the lighting system may be mounted in a housing with a light-transmissive cover preventing access to exposed channels 1018 and 1020, preferably with a kill switch that automatically shuts off the power across channels 1018 and 1020 when the cover is open.

Particularly in LED applications, magnetic base 1030 and frame 1026 are sized to function as a heat sink that conducts sufficient heat away from light module 1028 to satisfy the module's thermal operating requirements. More particularly, the magnet serves as a thermal path for heat transfer to the substrate portion of the frame. The substrate is the effective heat sink.

A wide variety of LEDs in all colors suitable for use in accordance with the invention is available from Osram Opto Semiconductors Inc., 2650 San Tomas Expressway, Suite 200, Santa Clara, CA 95051. LEDs from the DRAGON family are particularly well suited.

Referring to FIG 13, an alternate embodiment of a light source is shown. Light source 1080 of FIG 13 may be suited for light source 28 of FIG 1 by electronically connecting lead-in wires 1082 and 1084 to channelsl018 and 1020, respectively. Light source 1080 includes cylindrical sleeve 1086 having central axis A-A.

Reflector 1088, also with central axis A-A, is mounted within sleeve 1086.
Reflector 1088 may be parabolic, as shown in FIG 13, or some other shape in order to obtain a desired beam pattern. Reflector 1088 typically has light-reflective coating 89 on its inside surface. Lens 1090 may be removably mounted on sleeve 1086 by suitable means, e.g., by thread 1092 such that the lens 1090 may be screwed into sleeve in front of light LED 1096 or by being pushed into two spade posts. As is well known in the art, lens 1090 may be shaped, patterned, and/or coated to produce various characteristics of light emitted from light source 1080. Further, lens 1090 may be colored to match or be different from the color of the light emitted from light source 1080. Lens 1090 may be opaque or semi-opaque everywhere except for the outline of an alphanumeric character or some other symbol such that light source 1080 projects the image of such character or symbol when the light source is lit. Because lens 1090 is replaceable, the character or effect of the light emitted from light source 1080 may be changed by replacing lens 1090 with a different lens. In FIG 13, light source employs LED 1096 as the light-generating device, but a different light-generating source may be employed. In an alternate embodiment of the invention (not shown in the drawings), reflector 1088 may be movably mounted on the light module such that the direction of the emitted beam may be adjusted without relocating the light module on the frame. See, for examples, U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,509, issued on October 13, 1992, to Wulfman et al. mentioned above and U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,549, issued on January 12, 1988 to Apel.

FIG 14 is a pictorial view of a frame 1100 for use with one ore more light modules in accordance with various aspects of the invention.

Frame 1100 differs from frame 1012 of FIG 10 in that there is a plurality of pairs of electrically conductive channels on which one or more light modules may be magnetically mounted. In the drawing, channels 1102 and 1104 form a first channel pair, channels 1106 and 1108, a second pair, and channels 1110 and 1112, a third pair.
If desired, additional pairs of channels may be added to frame 1100. Each channel may be formed from a thin electrically conductive material and mounted on body covered with a dielectric coating as shown in FIG 11, or each channel may be mounted in an insulated groove in body 1101 as shown in FIG 12. Terminals 1114 and 1116 may be connected to an external source of electrical power. The electrically conductive channels, and/or channel pairs, may be fabricated by printed circuit board techniques.
In an embodiment such as shown in FIG 14, there is the advantage that a plurality of light modules may be mounted on the frame substantially in the form of an array, i.e., an arrangement of rows and columns in the x- and y- directions.

Frame 1100 may have a variety of embodiments and applications. In a vertical orientation as depicted in FIG 14, frame 1100 may be used as a fixture for signage.
Light modules with alphanumeric lenses may be mounted on frame 1100 so as to display a message. When mounted horizontally with the channels facing down under a counter or in a display case, the frame accommodates a flexible arrangement of light modules, positionable in both x- and y- directions, to direct light onto a particular work area or areas, or to highlight certain merchandise, perhaps with different light intensities, colors, or aesthetic effects.

FIG 21 illustrates an embodiment of the invention mounted in display case 1300.
Display case 1300 has lighting system 1303 mounted on the underside of top shelf 1302. Objects 1310 situated on shelf 1312 are objects to be displayed through glass front 1314. Light modules 1306 are mounted on frame 1304 so as to illuminate objects 1310 favorably. There is a good deal of flexibility in the positioning of modules 1306. As discussed with reference to FIG 13, the modules may be mounted in various positions in both the x- and y- directions of the horizontal shelf. As described with reference to FIG 13, reflectors 1308 are adjustably mounted on modules 1306 such that light beams 1316 may be directed to illuminate objects 1310 at a desired angle, and various characteristics of the emitted light may be obtained by choice of lenses (if any) used on reflectors 1308. An additional lighting system 1303 may be mounted on the underside of shelf 1312 if objects placed on shelf 1316 are desired to be illuminated.

Returning to FIG 14, frame 1100 may be employed as a multiple track-lighting fixture mounted on a ceiling or wall. Frame 1100, preferably with a diffusive and protective cover, may be used as a ceiling light fixture. In rooms with suspended ceilings, frame 1100 may be adapted to fit into the ceiling grid in place of a ceiling panel.
Moreover, several frames 1100, of the same or different sizes, may be used together as building blocks or components to construct a two- or three-dimensional lighting system, e.g., a two-dimensional system in the shape of the letter "E", or a three-dimensional system in the shape of a cube or parallelepiped, or combinations of same, with light modules mounted on some or all faces.

A frame need not be rectangular. FIG 15 shows an elevational view of a circular frame 1120 based on the same wiring and insulating principles as frame 1100. In FIG
15, a single line, rather than a double line as in FIG 14 represents each electrically conductive channel, to illustrate the electrical circuit more clearly. The drawing shows three pairs of channels, 1122 and 1124, 1126 and 1128, and 1130 and 1132, that are essentially arranged on concentric circles on dielectric surface 1134 or frame 1120. When terminals 1134 and 1136 are energized with suitable electrical power, one or more light modules may be operatively mounted on one or more channel pairs. In a variation of the embodiment of FIG 15, a single pair of channels is arranged in a spiral on the circular frame rather than in a pattern of concentric circles. It is within the scope of the invention to modify frame 1120 and the channels on its surface by stretching their circular shapes into various other shapes, such as an oval, crescent, etc.

Aspects of the invention are applicable also to three dimensions. FIG 16A
depicts a view of spherical frame 1140 based on the same wiring and insulating principles as frame 1100 from FIG 14. As in FIG 15, the electrically conductive channels in are shown as single lines. Channel pair 1142 comprises channels 1142A and 11426;
likewise, channel pairs 1144, 1146, 1148 and 1150 are each comprised of two channels. In this embodiment, the electrical circuit is located entirely on the dielectric surface 1141 of sphere 1140. Channel pairs 1142, 1144, 1146, 1148 and 1150 are substantially latitudinal circles of sphere 1141.The circuit may be energized by connecting terminals 1152 and 1154 to a suitable power source.

In order to mount light modules on spherical frame 1140, the frame surface must be substantially flat. The term "substantially flat" as used herein with respect to a frame surface means that the frame surface either is flat or has a radius of curvature large enough to permit light modules to be mounted on the frame surface by magnetic attraction without slippage or rocking. The distance between channels of each channel pair should be small enough so that reliable electrical and thermal contact occurs between the channels and corresponding paths of a mounted light module. To facilitate reliable electrical and thermal contact between frame channels and the corresponding paths of a mounted light module, the surface of the light module may be curved to match or accommodate the curvature of the frame. The term "substantially flat"
as used herein with respect to a module surface means that the module surface may be either flat or curved such that the module may be mounted on the frame surface by magnetic attraction without slippage or rocking, although the curvatures of the frame and module surfaces need not be identical. Further, the frame channels may be raised from the surface of the frame, as shown in FIG 11 and/or the module's paths may be raised from the body of the module. Additionally, the module may include spring contacts, typically formed from beryllium copper, that may be shaped to conform to the curvature of the frame. Spring contacts will enhance heat transfer away from the module and improve module stability particularly where the path/channel contacts between the module and frame are narrow. By using a judicious combination of the aforementioned techniques, a light module may be designed such that it can be magnetically mounted securely on a frame even when the surface of the frame is curved.

While FIG 16A depicts a spherical frame, the same principles apply to a cylindrical or conical frame and other curved three-dimensional frames. Particularly in three dimensional embodiments of the invention, it may be advantageous to conserve weight by employing a frame comprising non-magnetic material, such as plastic, with pieces of magnetic material imbedded in the frame or adhered on the inside of the frame.
In such embodiments, however, the ground of the imbedded magnetic material must be large enough to satisfy the heat-sinking function and, as is the case in all embodiments of the invention utilizing the heat-sinking ability of the magnetic materials, the size of the contact areas between the frame and module must be sufficient to permit adequate heat transfer from the module to the frame.

FIG 16B shows the same spherical frame 1140 except that the channel pairs 1142, 1144, 1146, 1148 and 1150 are full latitudinal circles on dielectric surface 1141 of sphere 1140. In this embodiment, terminals 1152 and 1154 protrude into the interior of frame 1140. Looking through the break-away in the drawing, terminal 1152 is electrically connected to the first channel of each channel pair as illustrated by connecting wires 1156, 1158 and 1160. Terminal 1154 is electrically connected to the second channel of each channel pair as illustrated by connecting wires 1162, 1164 and 1166.
Additional connecting wires to the remaining channels are omitted in FIG 16B for clarity.
It is within the scope of the invention to modify frame 1140 by stretching it into various other shapes, such as an ellipsoid, etc. In a variation of the embodiment of FIG
16A, a single pair of channels forms a spiral over the surface of sphere 1141, running essentially from the north pole to the south pole.

The embodiments of FIGs 16A and 16B are typically used in lighting systems hung from a ceiling or mounted on a pole-type base. For a lighting system mounted directly on a horizontal or vertical surface, half of frame 140, i.e., a hemisphere, may be employed using the same principles illustrated in FIGs 16A and 16B.

FIG 16B illustrates the concept that electrical power may be supplied to the frame channels from inside the frame of the lighting system. Various electrical control devices, such as ballasts, dimmers, transformers, power supplies, inverters, drivers, controllers, etc., may also be located within the body of the frame such that the lighting system may be connected directly to a standard power source, say, 110 volts, alternating current.
Moreover, such control devices may each service one or more light modules, such as one ballast servicing four or eight fluorescent light modules. This feature of the invention may be employed with three-dimensional frames, e.g. a cube, sphere, or polyhedron, and it may also be utilized with two-dimensional frames, such as those depicted in FIGs 1, 5, and 6, by extending the electrical channels to the inside of the frame bodies rather than directly to external terminals as shown in the drawings.

In further aspects of the invention, FIGs 17A and 18A illustrate additional examples of embodiments of three-dimensional frames. FIG 17A illustrates an icosahedron frame 1180 having twenty equal faces 1182, each face being an equilateral triangle as shown in FIG 17B. Terminal 1181, comprising dual electrically isolated wires, extends inside the body of frame 1180 and provides means for supplying electrical power to light modules from within frame 1180.

FIG 9A illustrates a dodecahedron frame 1190 having twelve equal faces 1192, each face being an equilateral pentagon as shown in FIG 18B. Terminal 1191, comprising dual electrically isolated wires, extends inside the body of frame 1190 and provides means for supplying electrical power to light modules from within frame 1190.
As shown in the drawings, electrically conductive channels 1184 and 1186 may be centrally located on dielectric-coated pentagonal face 1182, and likewise for electrically conductive channels 1194 and 1196 on dielectric-coated pentagonal face 1192, although the orientation of these channels within the triangular or pentagonal faces is not critical. Faces 1182 and 1192 comprise magnetic material so that a light module may be mounted on each face. Channels 1184 and 1186 are electrically isolated from each other and from face 1182, and likewise for channels 1194 and 1196 from face 1192. Channels 1184 and 1186 pass through face 1182 and are connected to terminal 1181 such that electrical power may be supplied from inside the body of the icosahedron frame 1180 such that electrical power may be supplied from inside the body of icosahedron frame 1180 in the same way as shown in FIG 16B, and likewise for channels 1194 and 1196 from inside dodecahedron frame 1190.

Additional solid shapes for frames in accordance with various aspects of the invention, such as cylinders, cones, prisms, combinations and frustums of various solids, etc., may be constructed by one with skill in the art using the same principles as described above.
These additional embodiments are within the scope of the invention.

As described in the foregoing examples, numerous embodiments and variations of the frame structure are possible and practical. In all of these embodiments, it is important that the electrical paths of the light module be properly positioned on the electrical channels of the frame so that the light module can be reliably powered.

Pictorials or graphics may be employed to provide guidance as to the proper orientation of modules on the frame. FIG 19 shows the lighting system of FIG 2 with addition of ridges 206, 208 and 210 and receiving groove 212. Assuming, for the moment, that ridge 1210 and groove 1212 are omitted, ridges 1206 and 1208 insure that light module 1200 is properly aligned electrically when mounted on frame 1204 except, possibly, for electrical polarity. With ridge 1210 positioned within groove 1212, proper polarity is assured because the ridge and groove, both located to the right of center-line B-B in the drawing, are not centered on frame 1204. Note, ridge 1210 and groove 1212 may not always be necessary or desired as, for example, where the light module 1200 is powered by alternating current.

In a direct-current embodiment where light source 1214 is an LED and ridge 1210 and groove 1212 have been omitted, a user would realize that the light module was mounted with improper polarity by virtue of the fact that the LED did not light when energized, whereupon the user would remount the light module with the polarity reversed. Alternatively, the light module may include two LEDs, each lighting with opposite polarity, so whatever the polarity of the module one LED would light.
A light module with two LEDs of opposite polarity will function with alternating current. Another dual-LED alternative is where each LED emits different colored light, say, the first LED
emitting white light and the second, with opposite polarity, emitting red light. The emitted red light might signal the user that the light module is mounted with the wrong polarity, or it may be a design feature of the light module that it can emit different colored light depending on its polarity position on the frame or depending on the polarity supplied to the lighting system.

Additional signaling options, such as blinking, could be achieved by pulsing the power supplied to the lighting system. A single light module may be comprised of two groups of LEDs with one group responding to a first applied polarity and the second group responding to the opposite applied polarity or, alternatively, a lighting system may employ two groups of light modules, one group of modules responding to a first polarity and the second group of modules responding to the opposite applied polarity.

FIG 20 shows the lighting system of FIG 12 with the addition of ridge 222 on frame 1226 and matching groove 1224 in light module 1228. Ridge 1222 is asymmetrical, having one vertical side (left side of the drawing) and one slanted side (right side of the drawing), and likewise for matching groove 1224. Mounting module 1228 on frame with ridge 1222 properly positioned within groove 1224 insures reliable electrical contracts and proper polarity, irrespective of whether or not the groove is centered with respect to center-line C-C. There are numerous other possible arrangements of ridges, grooves, and/or other means in accordance with various aspects of the invention for insuring the light module will be mounted on the frame with reliable electrical contacts between the module and frame and, where appropriate, proper electrical polarity.

In each of the foregoing embodiments of the invention, there is the capability for a variable number of light modules to be electrically connected in parallel on a frame connected to an external power supply or driver circuit. Because the light modules may be added or removed from the frame at any time, the power supply must be capable of regulating the supply current such that an appropriate current will be provided to each light module. Such regulated power supplies are known in the art. See, for example, United States Patent No. 6,577,512, issued June 10, 2003, to Tripathi et al., which describes a power supply for a variable number of LEDs wired in series or in parallel.

In an embodiment employing a variable number of LED light modules connected in parallel, the driver circuit may need the ability to detect the number of light modules mounted on the frame in real time. A resistor added in parallel with the LED
on each module will facilitate the driver circuit's ability to detect the number of LED light modules mounted at any time. By periodically detecting the equivalent resistance of the mounted LED modules, the driver circuit would regulate the supply current accordingly.

Referring again to the above-mentioned Wulfman et al. patent, the present invention may be employed in low- or high-voltage applications with LED, incandescent, halogen, or fluorescent light sources, whereas Wulfman et al. teaches only a low-voltage halogen system. A frame of the present invention may be adapted to support light modules in one, two, or three dimensions, whereas the Wulfman et al. housings are constrained to a linear track. An advantage of the present invention not taught by Wulfman et al. is the feature that the magnetic materials in the frame and light module serve the dual purpose of mounting and heat-sinking in LED embodiments.

In applications where it is desirable to have the lighting system be as inconspicuous as possible such as an under-counter system for lighting merchandise, the bracket and fixtures of Wulfman et al. will occupy significantly more space and be more conspicuous than a lighting system in accordance with the invention, particularly in an embodiment employing LED light sources. There are further advantages. The present invention may be employed in signage or signaling applications. Lighting systems in accordance with the present invention may be used as components or building blocks in larger lighting systems. Lighting systems in accordance with the present invention may be fabricated with three-dimensional frames that have an aesthetic appearance even when the lighting system is not illuminated. The present invention has a far wider variety of applications than the lighting system of Wulfman et al. and provides a user with enhanced ability to control the quantity, direction, and characteristics of the emitted light.

While there have been shown what are at present considered to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, it should be understood that the invention has been described by way of illustration and not limitation.

Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the execution examples.
Halogen lamps can be employed alternative or in addition to LEDs. OELDs are a possibility when it comes to LEDs, particularly flat OLED illuminants. The contact posts 8 added during or after manufacture. If the latter, they can be in the form of an adapter piece that is at least attachable to the module and includes bases to which they can also be attached afterward.

The adapter pieces can thus be designed as a post-purchase piece, while the bases can be connected directly to the housing of a base lamp, for example.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A luminaire with one or more individual light sources and with at least two magnetically attachable electrical terminals, and with at least one LED
that is one or both of white and colored as an individual light source, wherein the luminaire is encapsulated at least up to the at least two electrical terminals, and with a bendable intermediate piece between the terminals and the at least one individual light source such that the beam direction of the at least one individual light source is adjustable by bending, wherein the luminaire further comprises a frame with at least a first group of electrical contacts and a second group of electrical contacts, whereby an electrical potential is applicable between at least one contact of the first group and at least one contact of the second group, each of the contacts of the first group and the second group designed as a support surface for the support of the at least two magnetically attachable electrical terminals, wherein the first group and the second group are arranged in a grid pattern, whereby the grid constitutes a contact of the first group and the contacts of the second group, the surfaces of which are enclosed by the grid, such that one of the at least two electrical terminals is magnetically attached to a frame contact of the first group and the other of the at least two electrical terminals is magnetically attached to a frame contact of the second group, so that an electrical potential is applicable therebetween and a portion of each of the at least two electrical terminals has a respective opposing magnetic polarity compared to its respective frame contact, whereby the attached at least two electrical terminals and corresponding frame contents are formed so as to have a matching shape that permits magnetic attachment only with each other.

2. The luminaire according to claim 1 with at least one permanently magnetic electrical terminal.

3. The luminaire according to claim 1 or 2 with at least one electrical terminal having a flat contact.

4. The luminaire according to claim 1 with at least two LEDs of different colors that generate a mixed white light.

5. The luminaire according to any one of the claims 1 to 4 that includes a halogen lamp as at least one light source.

6. The luminaire according to any one of claims 1 to 5 adapted to employ an adapter between the at least one electrical terminal and the light source.

7. The luminaire according to any one of claims 1 to 6 with at least two electrical terminals of opposing magnetic polarity.

8. The luminaire according to at any one of claims 1 to 7 that is also provided with a control for controlling the associated at least one individual light source.

9. The luminaire according to claim 8 with a control that is provided with a dimming function that when activated minimizes the luminosity of at least one luminaire.

10. The luminaire according to claim 8 or 9 that has receiving means communicatively coupled with the control for receiving control signals.

11. The luminaire according to any one of claims 11 to 13 that has a selectively addressable control.

12. The luminaire according to claim 1 with electrical contacts divided into two groups and arranged in a checkerboard, ring, or striped pattern with an alternating configuration of the contacts in both groups.

13. The luminaire according to claim 1 or 12 with multiple pairs of contacts, whereby one contact of each pair belongs to the first group and one contact of each pair belongs to the second group.

14. The luminaire according to claim 13 with at least three sets of pairs, whereby one contact of every pair in a set belongs to a respective first group and another contact of a pair in a set belongs to a respective second group with contacts of varying forms between the sets, whereby each set is independently controllable.

15. The luminaire according to any one of claims 1, 12, 13 and 14, that is expandable in at least one direction.

16. A lighting system with removable light modules comprising:

(a) a frame having a substantially flat surface, said frame including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive channels mounted on said surface;

(b) a light module comprising a light source mounted on a base, said base having a substantially flat surface, said base including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive paths, said light source having first and second lead-in wires electrically connected to said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base; and (c) said light module being mounted on said frame with said substantially flat surface of said light module facing said substantially flat surface of said frame and said first path of said light module being in electrical contact with said first channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said second channel and said second path of said light module being in electrical contact with said second channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said first channel such that said light module is securely mounted on said frame by means of a magnetic attractive force acting between said magnetic material of said light module and said magnetic material of said frame and such that said magnetic attractive force permits said light module to be manually removed from said frame; and wherein said light module includes first and second LEDs, said first LED
having a different polarity from said second LED.

17. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light source is removably mounted on said base of said light module.

18. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame includes a groove intersecting said substantially flat surface of said frame and said first electrically conductive channel of said frame is mounted in said groove.

19. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame includes a dielectric material such that said first and second electrically conductive channels are electrically isolated from each other and said frame.

20. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said base of said light source module includes a dielectric material such that said first and second electrically conductive channels are electrically isolated from each other and said base.

21. The lighting system as described in claim 18 wherein said groove includes a dielectric material such that said first and second electrically conductive channels are electrically isolated from each other and said frame.

22. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame includes means for insuring reliable electrical contact between said first and second electrically conductive channels of said frame and said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base.

23. The lighting system as described in claim 21 wherein said frame further includes means for insuring proper electrical polarity between said first and second electrically conductive channels of said frame and said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base of said light module.

24. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light source is an LED and said magnetic material of said frame and said magnetic material of said base provide heat-sinking substantially sufficient for the thermal operating requirements of said LED.

25. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system includes a plurality of light modules mounted on said frame.

26. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system includes a plurality of electrically conductive channel pairs.

27. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system includes first and second groups of light modules, said first group of light modules having a different polarity from said second group of light modules.

28. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light module includes a reflector about said light source and a lens mounted on said reflector through which light emitted by said light source passes.

29. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light module includes a movably mounted reflector such that the direction of the beam emitted by said light module may be adjusted without relocating said light module on said frame.

30. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light module emits colored light.

31. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said system is employed as a sign.

32. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said system is employed as a signaling device.

33. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system further comprises a housing enclosing said frame and said light module, said housing including an openable light-transmissive cover that when closed prevents access to said first and second electrically conductive channels and a kill switch responsive to the position of said cover such that the electrical power flowing through said channels is shut off when said cover is open.

34. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system is adapted to be installed in a grid of a suspended ceiling.

35. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light source is a tungsten-halogen lamp.

36. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light source is an incandescent lamp.

37. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said light source is a fluorescent lamp.

38. The lighting system as describe in claim 16 wherein said frame further includes plastic.

39. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame is substantially a parallelepiped.

40. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame is substantially a sphere.

41. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said frame is substantially a polyhedron.

42. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system include an electrical control device servicing said light module, said electrical control device being located within the body of said frame.

43. The lighting system as described in claim 42 wherein said electrical control device services a plurality of light modules.

44. The lighting system as described in claim 24 wherein said light module includes a resistor mounted on said module, said resistor being electrically connected in parallel with said LED.

45. The lighting system as described in claim 16 wherein said lighting system is mounted on the underside of a shelf in a display case.

46. A lighting system with removable light modules comprising:

(a) a frame having a substantially flat surface, said frame including an electrically conductive magnetic material and an electrically conductive channel mounted on said surface, said electrically conductive channel being electrically isolated from said frame;

(b) a light module comprising a light source mounted on a base, said base having a substantially flat surface, said base including a magnetic material and first and second electrically conductive paths, said light source having first and second lead-in wires electrically connected to said first and second electrically conductive paths of said base; and (c) said light module being mounted on said frame with said substantially flat surface of said light module facing said substantially flat surface of said frame and said first path of said light module being in electrical contact with said frame and electrically isolated from said channel of said frame and said second path of said light module being in electrical contact with said channel of said frame and electrically isolated from said frame such that said light module is securely mounted on said frame by means of a magnetic attractive force acting between said magnetic material of said light module and said magnetic material of said frame and such that said magnetic attractive force permits said light module to be manually removed from said frame; and wherein said light module includes first and second LEDs, said first LED
having a different polarity from said second LED.