GB2475613A - Light cover release system - Google Patents
Light cover release system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2475613A GB2475613A GB1019543A GB201019543A GB2475613A GB 2475613 A GB2475613 A GB 2475613A GB 1019543 A GB1019543 A GB 1019543A GB 201019543 A GB201019543 A GB 201019543A GB 2475613 A GB2475613 A GB 2475613A
- Authority
- GB
- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- end cap
- lamp body
- lamp
- cover
- body according
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 abstract description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 2
- VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chromium Chemical compound [Cr] VYZAMTAEIAYCRO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004873 anchoring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011065 in-situ storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007858 starting material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V15/00—Protecting lighting devices from damage
- F21V15/01—Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts
- F21V15/015—Devices for covering joints between adjacent lighting devices; End coverings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V17/00—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages
- F21V17/10—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening
- F21V17/16—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by deformation of parts; Snap action mounting
- F21V17/162—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages characterised by specific fastening means or way of fastening by deformation of parts; Snap action mounting the parts being subjected to traction or compression, e.g. coil springs
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
- F21Y2103/00—Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Securing Globes, Refractors, Reflectors Or The Like (AREA)
- Fastening Of Light Sources Or Lamp Holders (AREA)
Abstract
A sliding, automatic return, end cap retaining device 1 for a cover 2 of a fluorescent type strip light allows a light cover 2 to be removed and a fluorescent lamp to be replaced or maintenance carried out. The end cap 1 is connected via a bias means 4, for example springs, to a base of the light. The end cap 1 may have brackets 6,7 and shafts 5 to guide and support the end cap 1 during sliding movement.
Description
Light Cover Release System
Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for allowing light covers and in particular strip light covers to be removed, in situ, without the use of tools or any visible fixings.
BackQround The fluorescent strip light is a popular energy efficient design that provides convenient lighting solutions for many domestic and commercial applications.
Generally the strip light design incorporates a base plate to which the wiring connections, starter unit, lamp socket holders and lamp(s) etc are mounted upon.
A semi transparent cover, with good light transmission rates, usually hides the equipment mounted onto the main base plate and is often secured by some form of end cap. For maintenance purposes the end cap needs to be of a design to allow removal of the lamp cover.
Current methods, that allow the covers to be removed, can be either by the use of screws/bolts etc that are visible on the end cap and attach through the end cover retainer on to an inner bracket, a clip on system or a pivoting sprung flat plastic end plate.
These methods of releasing the lamp cover impact the overall design and shape of the lamp and can be problematic when access is required whilst the light is ceiling mounted. Small components (screws etc) being handled whilst in an elevated position can be awkward to remove or replace and can be dropped/lost.
Summary of the Invention
According to the present invention there is provided a lamp body for a fluorescent tube lamp, said lamp body comprising;- (i) An elongate base having a longitudinal axis; (ii) A substantially transparent or translucent cover; (iii) a first end cap and a second end cap wherein at least one of the end caps is movable and is resiliently biased with respect to the base such that the moveable end cap can move between a first close configuration in which the moveable end cap holds the cover in place, and a second, open configuration in which the cover is free to be removed. By resiliently biasing at least one of the end caps towards a position in which it holds the cover in place, and arranging for the resiliently biased end cap to be movable, without the use of tools, into an open configuration where the cover can be removed, provides a lamp body that has no visible fixings.
Preferably the moveable end cap is constrained to move along the longitudinal axis of the base. The end cap is therefore constrained to move in a sideway direction, allowing the cover to be removed.
Preferably the moveable end cap is mounted on at least one shaft, one end of is the/each shaft being anchored to the lamp base. This shaft anchoring system ensures that the/each movable end cap is constrained to move in a fixed direction, along the longitudinal axis of the base.
Preferably the resilient biasing means mounted on the/each shaft tends to hold the moveable end cap in the closed configuration. This retains the cover in place during normal use.
Preferably two shafts are provided, in substantially parallel corresponding end alignment. This ensures free and even movement of the end cap.
Preferably the/each shaft is retained by a bracket on the moveable end cap. This ensures that the shafts remain substantially parallel to each other during movement of the end cap.
In a particularly preferred embodiment the resilient biasing means comprises a coil spring and one end of the coil spring is retained on the shaft by a lug or other stop on the end of or positioned at a suitable position along the length of the shaft.
Preferably the lamp body further comprising a fluorescent tube lamp.
It will be understood that the invention includes a fluorescent tube lamp incorporating a lamp body according to the present invention, and to a method of removing and replacing a lamp cover using a lamp body according to the present invention.
The present invention provides a means of removing the lamp cover by utilising a manually activated, extendable end cover that remains permanently attached to the main body of the light. When the end cover is released it will return to its original clamping position by releasing the stored energy created during the opening is process with no tools being required for any of these actions.
The light assembly will generally include a single extendable end cover at one end and a fixed end cover at the opposing end. When fully extended the distance travelled by the movable end cover is such that sufficient clearance is provided at both ends of the light assembly for the cover to be released. Similarly to replace the lamp cover the movable end cover is fully extended, the cover is placed in position and then the end cover is released therefore returning under spring tension and fully clamping the lamp cover back into position.
To allow for unrestricted movement of the end cover, once mounted to the ceiling/wall, sufficient clearance is provided between the end cover base and the mounted surface. This clearance is nominally around 0.5 -1mm to allow for any imperfections or undulations present in the surface of the mounting location. The gap is also small enough so that when mounted becomes almost undetectable from the fixed cover at the opposing end of the assembly.
The material of the end cover will be based on its visual appearance and can be chrome plated or polished aluminium which is a lightweight adaptable material that provides design flexibility, easy machining and moulding. It is understood that other materials may be used in place of aluminium.
Advantages The end cover can be of a seamless design with no visible fixings No tools are required to release the light cover from the main light assembly The cover can be released whilst the light assembly remains in its fixed location The design can be incorporated into any size/length/width/number or wattage of strip light Maintenance operations can be completed in a safer and quicker manner due to the simple tool-less access provided.
The light cover remains permanently clamped due to the force provided by the spring tension.
is The design can be mounted in either a ceiling or wall position.
Brief description of the drawings
The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following illustrations and drawings which show in more detail the light cover release system; Drawing Number 1 -Isometric View This illustration shows an isometric view of the moveable end cover, in the open position with the cover removed.
Drawing Number 2 -Light Assembly A number of elevations of a typical light assembly with release bracket system.
Drawing Number 3 -Photos Photographs of a prototype light assembly in both open and closed position.
Description of the preferred embodiments
The present invention will now be described by way of invention only. These are not the only ways that the invention can be put into practice but are the best ways currently known to the applicant. Referring to Drawing Number 1, this drawing shows an isometric view of the moveable end cover in an extended position allowing the release of the light cover.
The main body or base [3] is used to attach the control equipment for the fluorescent lamp, for example the ballast unit, lamp holder brackets, lamp(s) and wiring connectors. The lamp cover will locate into a recess running parallel down the io length of the base. Brackets [6 &7] are attached to the base and end cap [1]. The brackets are interlocked together by the two shafts [5]. The spring or springs [4], which act as resilient biasing means, are compressed when the end cap [1] is manually driven away from the light assembly. Once the end cover is fully extended the light cover [2] can be easily removed and/or replaced. is
Referring to Drawing Number 2 this drawing shows three different views of a typical light assembly.
Top View -This view shows a plan elevation of a strip light design.
Middle View -This view shows a side elevation of a strip light design.
Bottom View -In this view the cover has been extended and the light cover removed.
Referring to Drawing number 3 this drawing shows two photographs of a prototype light design (Figures 1 and 2).
Figure 1 shows a photograph of an example of an end cover design in the closed position with the cover retained.
Figure 2 shows a prototype light design with the end cover in the fully extended position. The lamp cover has been removed to allow full access to the internal light equipment.
These photos demonstrate that there are no visible fixings required and that the cover can be successfully removed.
In summary this invention provides:-
s A light cover clamping mechanism that provides a safe yet simple method of removing/replacing a light cover, and therefore lamp, from the light fitting without the need for tools or any visible fixings.
A light cover clamping mechanism according to claim 1, in which the end cover returns to the original clamping position by means of a spring device or manual positioning.
A light cover clamping mechanism according to claim 1 that provides a method of removing the light cover from the light assembly without removing light from its installed position.
A light cover clamping mechanism according to claim 1 that enables the end covers of strip lights to be designed with no visible screws or fixings therefore increasing the design/finish options.
A light cover clamping mechanism according to claim 1, that can be applied to any fluorescent lamp design regardless of length, type (T51T8 etc) and wattage.
A light cover clamping mechanism according to claim 1, with sufficient clearance, once installed, to allow full movement of the sliding assembly.
Claims (9)
- Claims 1. A lamp body for a fluorescent tube lamp, said lamp body comprising;- (i) An elongate base having a longitudinal axis; (ii) A substantially transparent or translucent cover; (iii) A first end cap and a second end cap at least one of the end caps is movable and is resiliently biased with respect to the base such that the moveable end cap can move between a first close configuration in which the moveable end cap holds the cover in place, and a second, open configuration in which the cover is free to be removed.
- 2. A lamp body according to Claim 1 wherein the moveable end cap is constrained to move along the longitudinal axis of the base.
- 3. A lamp body according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the moveable end cap is mounted on at least one shaft, one end of the leach shaft being anchored to the lamp base.
- 4. A lamp body according to Claim 3 wherein the I a resilient biasing means mounted on the/each shaft tends to hold the moveable end cap in the closed configuration.
- 5. A lamp body according to Claim 3 of Claim 4 wherein two shafts are provided, in substantially parallel corresponding end alignment.
- 6. A lamp body according to any of Claims 3 to 5 inclusive wherein one end of the/each shaft is retained by a bracket on the moveable end cap.
- 7. A lamp body according to any of Claims 1 to 6 inclusive further comprising a fluorescent tube lamp.
- 8. A lamp base substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated in any combination of the drawings.
- 9. A fluorescent tube lamp incorporating a lamp body according to any of Claims 1 to 8 inclusive.Amendments to the Claims have been filed as follows Claims 1. A lamp body for a fluorescent tube lamp, said lamp body comprising;- (i) an elongate base having a longitudinal axis; (ii) a substantially transparent or translucent cover; (iii) a first end cap and a second end cap where at least one of the end caps is movable and connected to the base by a resiliently biasing means such that the moveable end cap can move between a first closed configuration, in which the moveable end cap holds the cover in place, and a second, open configuration in which the cover is free to be removed.2. A lamp body according to Claim 1 wherein the moveable end cap is constrained to move along the longitudinal axis of the base.3. A lamp body according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the moveable end cap is mounted on at least one shaft, one end of the leach shaft being anchored to the lamp base.4. A lamp body according to Claim 3 wherein the I a resilient biasing means mounted C') on the/each shaft tends to hold the moveable end cap in the closed configuration.(Y) 5. A lamp body according to Claim 3 of Claim 4 wherein two shafts are provided, in (\J substantially parallel corresponding end alignment.6. A lamp body according to any of Claims 3 to 5 inclusive wherein one end of the/each shaft is retained by a bracket on the moveable end cap.7. A lamp body according to any of Claims 1 to 6 inclusive further comprising a fluorescent tube lamp.8. A lamp base substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated in any combination of the drawings.9. A fluorescent tube lamp incorporating a lamp body according to any of Claims 1 to 8 inclusive.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1019543.6A GB2475613B (en) | 2010-11-18 | 2010-11-18 | Light cover release system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1019543.6A GB2475613B (en) | 2010-11-18 | 2010-11-18 | Light cover release system |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
GB201019543D0 GB201019543D0 (en) | 2010-12-29 |
GB2475613A true GB2475613A (en) | 2011-05-25 |
GB2475613B GB2475613B (en) | 2012-01-04 |
Family
ID=43431651
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
GB1019543.6A Expired - Fee Related GB2475613B (en) | 2010-11-18 | 2010-11-18 | Light cover release system |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
GB (1) | GB2475613B (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2581652A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2013-04-17 | Thorn Lighting Limited | Mounting arrangement |
CN104214548A (en) * | 2013-05-31 | 2014-12-17 | 深圳市海洋王照明工程有限公司 | Lamp |
WO2019192994A1 (en) * | 2018-04-05 | 2019-10-10 | Signify Holding B.V. | Spring loaded lens retainers |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB917601A (en) * | 1960-10-03 | 1963-02-06 | Gen Electric Co Ltd | Improvements in or relating to electric lighting fittings |
WO1991016571A1 (en) * | 1990-04-17 | 1991-10-31 | Alexander Engineering Co. Ltd. | Lamp housing assembly |
US5727869A (en) * | 1996-06-17 | 1998-03-17 | Boyd Lighting Company | Fluorescent light fixture with breakaway socket |
-
2010
- 2010-11-18 GB GB1019543.6A patent/GB2475613B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB917601A (en) * | 1960-10-03 | 1963-02-06 | Gen Electric Co Ltd | Improvements in or relating to electric lighting fittings |
WO1991016571A1 (en) * | 1990-04-17 | 1991-10-31 | Alexander Engineering Co. Ltd. | Lamp housing assembly |
US5727869A (en) * | 1996-06-17 | 1998-03-17 | Boyd Lighting Company | Fluorescent light fixture with breakaway socket |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2581652A1 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2013-04-17 | Thorn Lighting Limited | Mounting arrangement |
WO2013053875A3 (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2013-06-20 | Thorn Lighting Ltd. | Mounting arrangement |
CN103930717A (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2014-07-16 | 索恩照明有限公司 | Mounting arrangement |
US9157620B2 (en) | 2011-10-12 | 2015-10-13 | Thorn Lighting Ltd. | Mounting arrangement and method for mounting an optical member to an oblong luminaire |
CN103930717B (en) * | 2011-10-12 | 2018-12-14 | 索恩照明有限公司 | Mounting assembly, combination, lamps and lanterns and optical component is installed to the method for lamps and lanterns |
CN104214548A (en) * | 2013-05-31 | 2014-12-17 | 深圳市海洋王照明工程有限公司 | Lamp |
CN104214548B (en) * | 2013-05-31 | 2017-01-25 | 甘肃荣宝科技股份有限公司 | Lamp |
WO2019192994A1 (en) * | 2018-04-05 | 2019-10-10 | Signify Holding B.V. | Spring loaded lens retainers |
US11287111B2 (en) | 2018-04-05 | 2022-03-29 | Signify Holding B.V. | Spring loaded lens retainers |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB2475613B (en) | 2012-01-04 |
GB201019543D0 (en) | 2010-12-29 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PCNP | Patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20141118 |