CA2297822A1

CA2297822A1 - Strip lighting

Info

Publication number: CA2297822A1
Application number: CA002297822A
Authority: CA
Inventors: David Field Showers; James Berry Quantrell; Kenneth Robert Goddard; Malcolm Wesley Oldis
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Lumileds LLC
Priority date: 1997-07-28
Filing date: 1998-07-28
Publication date: 1999-02-11
Also published as: JP2001512279A; EP1000295A4; EP2796781A2; EP1000295B1; ES2511028T3; EP2796781A3; EP1000295A1; CN1279755A; WO1999006759A1

Abstract

A strip lighting device includes an elongate housing (14) that is at least partially translucent, and a multiplicity of light sources (8) arranged at intervals within the housing. Means is provided to diffuse, disperse or scatter light from the light sources whereby on activation of the light sources, a visible optical effect is produced when the housing is viewed from the outside.

Description

24,Jan, ~00~ '9:'~C FREE'~!~~LS MELB 4. 61 3 92661567 No.5015 P. 6 WO 9x/06?S9 PCT/AU98I00602 STRIP LIGHTING
Field of Invention rw This invention relates to light sources and to lighting systems, and has a particularly advantageous application to the decorative illumination of structures end stntctural elements. The invention is especially effective when employed with LEDs as light sources, although it is emphasised. that broader applications arc encompassed. i IS
Background Art British patent publication 2102933 discloses a lighting display configuration invade up of multiple transparent polycarbonate or plastics tubes linlted by socket units with several differently oriented recesses to seat the tubes. Each of the tubes contains an . 20 array of light bulbs, filament lamps or light emitting diodes {LEa). The application illustrates a free standing framework of the tubes and linking Socket units.
A known lighting product in strip form bas a linear array of well-spaced LED
chips in a close-fitting coloured plastics tube of rectangular cross-section.
The tube is a 25 little less than I cm in width and each LED chip is visible from the exterior both when not activated and as an individual point of light. The product is used to provide low light level safety lighting, eg., as a front edge "night light" marker for steps and stairways, and thus the rectangular tube is a protective carrier housing for the low light level LED
mar)cer ~Iamps.
Another known product has small incandescent light bulbs embedded at intervals in an axial plane in a solid cylinder of plastics material. The bulbs are arranged as series 24.Jan. 20uC 18:'0 FREEH~'~LS MELB 4. 61 3 92681567 No.50?5 ~. 7 '~ -v WO 99/06'759 PCT/AD98/00602 '.
sets in parallel, electrically connected across a pair of longitudinally extending wires also embedded in the cylinder. Fach bulb stands out individually when the device is activated.
so that the cylinder of plastics material effectively serves as a carrier forming a chain of spaced incandescent bulbs.
-Summary of the Invention The present applicant has appreciated that a light tube structure in which multiple light emitting diodes are arranged within an elongated translucent tube, provides a wide variety of opportunities for novel strip lightnng of structures such as playgrounds and the walls and roofs of commercial premises including restaurants. This opportunity is further t enhanced by the recent availability of light emitting diodes of substantially enhanced lurxunance relative to conventional devices. and of rnulti-colour LED devices.
In one respect, the invention is concerned with the decoration or highlighting of 1S features of structures. In another respect, the invention provides for the Fixing of translucent housings containing spaced LEDs on wall or frame surfaces of a wide variety of structures, The invention provides a strip lighting device which includes:
an elongate housing that is at least partially translucent;
a multiplicity of light sources arranged at intervals within said housing; and means to diffuse. disperse or scatter light from said light sources whereby on activation of the light sources, a visible optical effect is produced when the housing is viewed from the outside.
Z$
In a particular application, the invention is directed to a structure having one or more features highlighted or decprated by one or more of the above-described strip lighting devices.
Preferably. the highlighted yr decorated feature of the structure is a corner or edge, for example an edge of a roof, a window or a door, or a corner between respective wall or .roof sections. A particularly effective application is to a gable or ridge line of a ':

2~.Jan. ?G~0 '8:?1 ~REE~!;L~S ME'~B 4. 61 3 9288'507 No.5015 P. o PGTlAU981006D2

3 building roof. The strip lighting devices) may be mounted along the edge or corner, or adjacent to but offset from the edge or comer.
The housing of the strip lighting device may be substantially white, but is preferably a e9lour other than white_ in one application of the invention. the structure is a commercial building and the color of the or each housing is chosen to match or complement the colours) of identification or trade mark signage displayed on the building.
I4 The highlighted or decorated feature may alternatively be, e.g.. a post, a rail or a ", " border.
There may be mounting means that includes a mounting rail adapted to be fastened to said surface, and cooperable means on the strip and the housing for effecting a snap or sliding engagement of the housing to the strap so that the housing is generally parallel. vo, and preferably overlies, the strip.
The light sources are preferably light emitting diodes or other low voltage or semi-conductor devices.
The invention further provides, in a third aspect, a housing assembly for scrip _:
lighting, including:
an elongate housing at least partly but preferably substantially wholly of a translucent material;
~5 a mounting rail; and co-operable longitudinally extending formations on the rsil and the housing for effecting a snap or sliding engagement of the housing to the rail so that the housing is generally parallel to, and preferably overlies, the strip.
~r 34 The snap or sliding engagement may be achieved between loztgittudinally extending rib means on one of the components, preferably the strip, and complementary w:

24.Jan~ 2GGG 1S:'1 FREEH1LLS ME'~B ~. 61 3 92061567 No~601E P. 9 Wo 99/06759 PCri~,u98rooso2

4 groove moans on the other. There may be opposed longitudinal undercut formations in the groove means.
The strip conveniently includes a substantially planar roar engagement with the respective surface to which it is fastened.
Preferably, in all of the aforementioned aspects of the invention, the outer or front face of the elongate hollow housing its def ned by a cransverxely darned or convex seg3uent.
Preferably, in all the aforementioned aspects of the invention, the interior of the housing is provided with support means for one or more webs or strips extend~x~g longitudinally of the housing. One such web or strip may be a support web for the light sources and for the electrical connections to these light sources, and may thereby incorporate ribbon cable. A suitable support web is printed circuit board (pCB) laminate.
The web or strip may be transversely oriented at any angle, eg. parallel to or normal to the baclcil~g surface. or othetvvise. The light sources may be on either face or side of the support web or strip, or on both faces or sides.
Connector zneatls is preferably provided to physically couple a pair of the elongate housings whereby the housings may be relatively longitudinally displaced in situ, eg. by. thermal expansion or building subsidence, without being uncoupled_ Where the light sources are provided on a plurality of support webs or strips having electrically conductive surface elements and extending longitudinally of the housings, connectors are pr,cferably also provided for pairwi_ee electrically and physically coupling the support webs or strips whereby the webs or strips may also be reiatively longitudinally displaced in situ without being uncoupled, either physically or electrically. It is particularly advantageous to provide for such displacement Moth between housings and between support verbs or strips carried by an array of the housings.
A further Said strip or web may be an optical refractor or diffuser, atranged~
in front of or behind the light sources as appropriate.
4 f ~4.~ac. %0u~ 'o:'' ~RE.H_~S ~E~B 4. 6' 3 92ao'S6? No.5016 P. 10 w0 9906959 PCf/AU98/00602 In all aspects of the invention the housing may be hollow and/or Dray define a passageway in which the light sources are disposed_ Alternatively, the housing may be substantially a solid, eg_ moulding about the pre-positioned light Sources, or with cavities

5 tv receive the light sourccs_ Where the elongate housing is hollow. it is preferably a plastics (e.g.
polycarbonate) extrusion of substantially uniform cross-section, and is preferably translucent but not transparent. A translucent and also transparent housing may be preferred in some embodiments. The housing can be substantially rigid. A
suitable form ~:
' of the flexible tubular segment is a collapsible pleated web or concertina structure.
Presently, the base strip, flexible tube segments and coupling means are also at least partly provided in translucent material_ The means to diffuse, disperse or scatter may include e.g., a body portion of the housing. 'and/or light diffuser means in the passageway-The invention, in a further aspect, provides a connector for physically coupling a ZO pair of generally tubular components, including: .
''" an integral moulded body which defines a pair of generally tubular portions slidably engageable with the respective said tubular components so that their interiors are in communication within the connector:
whezcin said integral moulded body further defines a relatively thin wall portion between said generally tubular portions, said thin waU portion being resiliently deformable to compensate for relative variations in the relative positions of the generally tubular portions.
'~he material of the body is preferably silicone rubber or similar.

24.~an. %CCC '~8~12 EPEEF1LLS ME~B 4. 6' 3 928a~5E? X10.5015 P. ~1 w0 99/06739 lPGrr~.e.Uoaioosoa b In a still further aspect of the invention, there i5 provided a connector ~fror electrically and physically coupling a pair or more of support suips having electrically conductive surface elements including:
an integral moulded body with features which define spaced generally parallel channels or passages open at their outer ends to receive respective end fingers of the rrspcctive said strips, whezeby the strips are aligned and generally eo-planar:
cicctricaily conductive contact means in sand elxattnels or passages for engaging complementary contacts on said strips when said fingers anc received in tl~e channels or fingers;
means carried by said body electrically connecting each of the contact means for one snip carried by said body with one or more of the contact means for the other strip; and resiliently defotmable means on said body for latching said body to XS each of said suips_ Preferably, each of the electrically connecting means is provided contacts as an integral electrically conductive strip - more preferably, the strip is of appropriately conductive material, eg, phosphor-bronze or other alloy, mounted to be resiliently deflected by said fingers. .
Preferably, the spaced channels are arranged along opposire sides of the integral moulded body, and open laterally from the body- In an ezxabodiment, these channels are provided in elongate side portions linked by a central crossrpicce in an I or H
conftgurauon.
The resiliently deformable latch means is preferably provided as a pair of dcfleccablc tongue portions with lugs. which tongue portions is defined by slits in a web portion o~f the integral moulded body, e.g. bridging said elongate side portions of the body. r ?4~~an. ?000 '8~'2 FR_~~ILU M~'~9 ~. 61 3 92881567 No.5016 ~. i2 In. still further aspects, the invention rcspectivcly provides (i) a strip lighting system including mulriple scrip lighting devices as described above, and (ii) a set of components for such a system including rnuhiple such strip lighting devices, flexible tube segments, and suitable coupling means such as, eg., connectors according to the sixth $ and/or seventh gspects of the invention.
Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will ztow be further described, by way of example only. with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure I is a perspective view of a simple arrangement of a strip lighting system incorporating multiple light source enclosures according to an embodiment of the invention, depicted on the wall of a restaurant or other premises;
Figure 2 is an end element depicting a light tube segment and mounting rail ready for engagement?
Figure 3 illustrates an advantageous application of tlae snip lightiun~g systezzt to tk~e illumination of the rovf lines of a building, according to an embodiment of the firs; aspect of the invention;
Figure 4 illustrates an application of the invention to the framing of a display signage unit;
Figure 5 is a fragmentary cross-section of part of the unit of Figure 4:
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a form of connector for coupling two light tube segments;
Figure 7 is a fragzttentary cross-sectional view of the connector of Figure 6 in situ:
Figure 8 is an isometric view of a connector for coupling the cable ribbon support strips, being an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the invention.:
Figure 9 is a side elevational sketch of the connector shown in Figure 8, with support strips inserted into position;
Figure 10 shows an end poztion of a support strip slit to co-operate with the connc~bbr of Figure $;
Figure 11 is an axial cross-section of an end-insert Figure 12 is a cross-section on the line 12-12 in Figure 11;
Figure 13 is an outer end-elevation of the end-insert;

24,~an, 2060 '6:16 rREEH~~'~~S ~E'~9 ~. 6~ 3 97681667 No~50'~5 P. 13

6'750 PCTI.~rU98J00602 Figure 14 is an axial cross-sectio» of a flexible tube segment for linking light t~ubc segments where they are not aligned;
Figures 15 and 16 are an end-elevation and an axial cross-section of a locking nng;
Figure_17 is a cross,saction on tine line 17-17 in Figure 16;
Figure 18 is a ;fxagmentazy cross-section illustrating the assembly of a pair of substantially rigid light tube segments to an intervening flexible light tube segment of the form shown in Figure la;
Figure 19 and 20 depict twv views of an end plug;
Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing termination of a light tube segtnez~t by an end plug:
Figure 22 depicts, in section, an elbow;
Figure 23 shows an alternative form of end-cap;
Figures 24 and 25 illustrate, in isometric and cross-sectional views, a further alternative arrangement for interconnaccing two of the tube segments end to end; and Figure 26 is a sectioned isot'netric view of a modified tube and rail assembly.
Preferred Ennbodiments Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2_ the illustrated stzip lighting system 10 includes several light source enclosures I2 each having an elongate hollow housing 14 of a translucent material. Housings 14 are hereinafter referred to as light tube segments. .
These segments 14 are straight and substantially rigid. and are linked by flexible segments 16, Light tube segments 14 define respective internal passageways 13 in which multiple light sour~ccs in the form of light emitting diodes (LED) 8 are arranged at ZS intervals on ribbon cable support strips 9, eg printed circuit board (PCB) laminates.
Thcsc laminates may be of either substantially rigid or flexible type. The LEDs arc preferably of the surface mounted type. The electrical conductor cables printed on these strips are electrically connected to an external power soureeJeontrollcr via junction boxes 20 and uptight cable enclosures 22. The PCB laxninat~e or other support strip may include local or extended layering or coating to provide an optical effect! eg.
reflection, in cooperation with the LEDs.
ni 24.~an. =CCC 'fi~'3 =REEHi'~~S ~ME~S 4. S1 C 9208156? No.SG~S P. 14 wo 99io6~39 PCT/AU98/00602 Light rube segments 14 are fixed to respective surfaces 5 of a structure 6 so that they each extend along and adjacent the surface, by base strips in the form of mountiag rails 30 onto which the tube segments 14 can be releasably snap fitted. The mounting rails 30 are in turn fined unto the surfaces 5 by screws or the like hidden by tbc attached S tube segments.
Other cotn~ponents of the illustrated scrip lighting system include end inserts 40 for providing mbe segments 1a with end coupling foz~roataozts. end plugs 50 (Fi.gure 4) for terminating the light tube segments other than at junction boxes, and locking means 60 for disengagably coupling inserts 40 to the flexible tube segments 16 or to the end plugs ~--.
50.
Each substantially rigid ligGt tube segment 14 comprises an extrusion of uniform cross-section in a plastics matczi.al selected so that it is translucent in a manner whereby to diffuse, disperse or scatter the light emitted by the interior LEDs, so that the tube appears to glow when viewed from the outside. In this way, an extended strip or line of Iight is ;provided, ie. the tube appears to glow over a substantially continuous zone extending over its length and encompassiz~.g tlae contained light souTCes. The translucent material is preferably such that the LEDs are not visible to the eye when not activated ?.0 and viewed from outside the housing, and are substantially not distinguishable when activated aztd viewed from outside the housing_ A suitable material is a polycarbonate polymer composition with appropriate colour pigment and a titanium dioxide whitening agent to determine the optical ?,5 dispersion and degxee of translucence of opaqueness. The colour may be chosen to match a eoiour of the LEDs, oT may be any other colour, yr white or colourless. The colour is preferably UV stabilised Tn an alternative embodiment, the material of the extrusion may contain dispersed light scattering elements such as rzxetal shavi~ags or.
chips, or dust., that arc effective to diffuse, disperse or scatter the omitted light and so cause a sparkling :r 30 effect. In a still further variation of the tube segment, diffusion, dispersal or scattering of the LED light may be facilitated by the presence of fine grooves. ribs or other surface variations in the extruded segment. The extrusion material may include a component w;

24.Jan. %000 18:13 FREE'~'~;! LS ME! B 4~ 6~ 6 9288'86' No.5015 ~, 1B
wo 9a/06~59 fC'f/A,U98/00602 which is optically activated by electromagnetic radiation such as the sun's light or other radiation sa that the emitted colour. pattern or other optical characteristic may be altered.
A cross-section of the extrusion is illustrated in Figure 2. It includes a semi-5 circular or semi-annular outside portion 23, generally straight side wall poztions 2~a,24.b, and a slightly flared thin-wall base structure 25 in which a pair of hollow Longitudinally extending ribs 27a define a central groove yr channel 2?. Channel 27 has shallow undercuts 28a,28b along each side defined behind rounded sidge portions 29a,29b.
10 The interiors of side wall portions 24a,24b of light tube segment 14 are provided with a number, typically ~our as illustrated, of longitudinally extending ribs I9a that are evenly spaced to define intervening grooves 19b. These grooves are provided for mounting ribbon cable strips 9, or optical diffuser or reflector strips or other accessories.
This will be discussed further below.
Each mounting rail 30 is a3so an elongate extrusion of uniform cross-section formed in a material similar to light tube segments I4. It has a main base web 31 with two integral outstanding ribs 32a,32b of shallow V configuration in cross-section. The lateral outside profile of this snip As tktereby a close match with the side profiles of channel 27, including a V-groove 34a, 34b matching ridge portions 29a,29b and a rib formation 35a,35b matching undercuts 28a.28b.
The mounting rail 30 is dimensioned to be an interference fit in channel 27.
The hollow thin-wall form of tube segment base structure 25 and the arrangement of ribs 32a,32b on mounting rail 30 allow both components to flex and deform so that the tube segments 14 can be demountably attached to the mounting rails by pressing the tube segments onto the mounting rails in the direction of the arrow 80 in Figure 3.
'fb.e ribs 32a,32b flex inwardly towards each other snd the hollow flanges 26a,26b of the tube flex apart to allow the rib formations 35a,35b to snap past ridges 29a,29b into undercuts 'T
28a,28b. In this way, the light tube segment can be mountrxl tv a surface such as a wall surface by first fixing the mounting rails in place against. the wall with fasteners, 100 driven through the main web 31 of the rail. and then snapping the tube segment into a 24.Ja~. 2000 '0:14 FREEHi'~'_S MEL3 4. 61 3 9298'561 No.5015 P. 16 place. Mounting rails 30 have a smooth flat rear fact 33 for engaging the wall or odter surface on which the rail is mounted, and the fasteners are hidden from view in the assembled configuration. The mounting rails may include provision to support electrical conductors in particular applications. If it is desired at any time to rearrange or dismantle the strip lightitag, tube segment 14 can be grasped and pulled off the mounting rails by inverting thv snap action. To facilitate the snap-fit, there may be a longitndlnal slit izt the centre of channel 2?, at the position indicated in Figure 2 at 127.
It will be appreciated that the illustrated system i5 adaptable to provide configurations of strip lighting which match or complement a structure or provide a f-,, r 'v particular shape, eg. a recognisable shape. An advantageous application is illustrated in Figure 3. A building 150, eg, a commercial premises such as a restaurant, includes a rbof 152 with peripheral edges 153 and corners such as ridge line 154 or gables 156. Certain of these edges and corners are fitted with light tube segments 14 to form a strip lightung sy$tem for the roof_ 'The strip lighting system thus highlights and decorates the respective features of the roof. The colour of the tube scgrncnts may be chosen to complement the colour scheme of the building and/or to match the colours) of identification or trade mark signage displayed on the building. It will of course be understood that the strip lighting system may be applied with similar affect to other building lines, bath internal and external.
- With good choice of LED characteristics, colour and spacing, the effect of the strip lighting system on the building as Illustrated in Figure 3 is to enhance the profile of the roof line without creating glare, and without being unduly ostentatious.
The light has 2S a. zi.chness ~rithout excessive brightness. Undesirable dark spots are eliminated or reduced. Major electrical switchboard adjustments are avoided. and the inventive system does not include the inconvenience, high maintenance and fragility of neon tubes. Fixings are concealed aztd easy to install. aztd protrudiuag structure, which might attract birds, is avoided.~'Very long continuous lines of light can be achieved, whereas neon tubes z~equire .r regular interruption by discharge boxes.
w a 24.Jan, 2060 10:14 ~REENiLOS MELB 4. 61 3 92881567 No.6015 P. 17 WO 99/06~Sa In a variation, mounting rails 30 may have an integral leg or rib, eg. T, L, oi' X
section, for elevating the rail from an edge or surface. Twin rail extrusions may be provided. These variations may assist in eg. positioning tube segments 14 as framing for surface mounted fcaturzs. Figure 4 illustrates the application of the strip lighting to a _ promotional display sign, and Figure 5 is a sectional view showing the T-section, leg 129 of mouztting tall 30. This highlights the application of the invention to shopfitting ,generally. Other applications include playgrounds cg. to highlight posts or rails, and children's locations in general. In alternative applications, the mounting rail may be frtc-standing.
Figures 6 and 7 depict an embodiment 100 of connector for coupling a pair of tube segments 14 to form a longer strip of light for applications such as tb.at depicte~ in Figure 3. This connector is simple in form yet effective in adjusting for relative movement between the tube segments, eg. due to thermal expansion yr coatractidns.
la Connector 100 is an integral generally tubular moulding in liquid silicone rubber which consists of a pair oft substaxatiall.y identical seeker portions 102, 103 linked by a relatively thin walled centre portion 104. Each socket portion 102, 103 has an internal profile to closely match the external profile of tube segments 14 so that each is slidably engagcablc with and about an end of a zespective tube segment 14 so that the interiors of the tube segments are in communication within connector 100.
At their inner ends, each socket portion 102, 103 has an internal flange 106 that defines a peripheral groove 107 to receive and sealingly grip the end 14a of the tube segment. Centre portion 104, bridging the two flanges 106, is sufficiently thin to be able 2S to accommodate or compensate far relative movement of the tube ,segments without uncoupling of the tube segments, by resiliently buckling, stretching or otherwise deforming. Further compensation is provided by sliding movetnen.t of the tube segments longitudinally of groove 107. The material of the connector should be chosen to facilitate and optiniisc this role. Lzquid silitcone zubber (L5R) is especially suitable, because of its d excellent elastic memory in deformation, its ability to sealingly grasp tlae tube segments, and its overall durability_ The moulding thus acMeves a substantially waterproof coupling r 24.~an. 2CCC 'B:IE PREEN;LLS ME'~B 4. of 3 928860? No.50?5 P. ?8 with structural integrity, able to compensate for ttlenrzlal expaztsion axxd otlZer displacement between the tube segments 14.
Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment 110 of connector for clcctrically and physically intgrlinlcing ribbon cable support strips (typically PCB laminates) 9 within tube segmencs 14, or within a coupling between them.
Again connector 110 is an integral rttoulding in a suitable material. The moulding defines s solid body comprising spaced parallel elongate side portions 112, 113 linked by a central cross-piece I14 in an I or H configuration. The bights within this body are ":
closed by generally rectangular web portions 116. 117. Along the outside of side portions I12. 113 are respective channels 1I8, open laterally of the connector. Each channel is divided by a centre block lug 120. Mounted against top and bottom of each channel is a respective spring metal strip 122 (eg. of phosphor bronze, not shown in Fig S) shaped to pass over lug 120 and under intermediate lugs 124, and retained by slots 126 in end ribc 128_ The ends of eklaoneis 118 are open. between ribs 128, to receive respective end fingers x,40, 142 of PCB laminates 9 (Figure 10). These fingers force contact strips 122 resiliently apart, so ensuring electrical contact witb contacts 144 oz~ the top aztd bottozza faces of the strip fingers.
.
The PCB Iazniztates 9 are latched to the connector by engagement of lugs 132 in matching apertures 145 (Figure 10) in the latninates_ Lugs 132 are provided on resiliently deflectable tongue$ 130 defined in the open. edges of web portions 11 b, 117 by slots 134. Lugs 132 have an inclined outer strike face 135 by which the strip forces the tonguellug pair aside, and a steep inner face 136 which provides the latching function.
Tongues 130 can be deflected ztaaraually to uncouple the components.
Connector 110 would typically include a formation (net shown) to prevent coupling except in a correct relative strip orientation. Connector 110 is also preferably r such as to allow relative longitudinal displacement of the respective laminates, eg.
between limits determined by co-operatiztg abutments without their being uncoppled either physically or electrically. Connector 110 is preferably designed and coloured to a t 24.~an. 2006 '8:16 FRtrHi~''_S ME'~B 4. 6; 3 9268156? ~'~~c.5016 p, la WO 99/06'f59 mi.nurrnise disFUption to the unifomaity of the light pattern ezztiaed by the connected tltbe segments.
A set of the various components described and illustrated herein play be delivered to a site and mounted to a structure or set of walls in the manner described.
Connectors 11.0 would be used to bridge the diode mounting strips via the interiors of the flexible tube segments 16, and electrical power would be delivered to the diodes via upright cable enclosures 22 and junction boxes 20 (Figure 1) to which at, least some of the tube segments 14 would be attached. Advantageously, the lightlevels of multiple tabc segments could be controlled at a central point to achieve balance, or to obtain particular r:.
effects. In another alternative arrangement. each tube segment or respective subgroups of tube segments may have a separate brightness control, eg. a current level adjustir~ent device mounted in the tube segment or adjacent mounting rail.
It will be appreciated that the light emitting diodes may be of any suitable type, e.g. the three-colour diode sets now available, but it is desirable to avoid excessive variations in outputs between diodes for a given current, and to seek long life LED
products- The LEDs could be si.znply activated to provide constant and unifortn illumination, or could be managed in a variable sequence by programmed logic circuits either internal or external to the illustrated configura~ion_ By similar means, random and variable patterns, colour and hue variations and colour changes can bs achieved.
~.,.:.
Because the connectors 100 allow a degree of relative longitudinal movement between adjacent coupled tube segments 14, and the connectors 110 ptrform a similar function between adjacent coupled PCB laminates 9, the system is able to simultaneously compensate for or accommodate such dual movement. cg. due to thermal expansion. or building subsidence, both externally in the array of tube segments 14 and internally in the contained array of PCB laminates. Provision for such compensation is advantageous in most "rcdl-world" applications of the inventive concepts.
As already noted, light tube segments 14 may be fitted with end inserts 410 to allow them to be connected to other fittings. A typical such insert is illustrated in Figure wr 24.Jan. ~O~u le:'6 ~RFB'a;i_L6 M='~~B ~'. 61 ;; °e681567 No~6015 G. 60 w0 99i06~5o PCT/AU98/D0602 11 to 13. It is an integral moulding in a suitable p)astic5 material.
preferably that used foz segments 14 and 4Z and mounting rails 30. The insert essentially includes three axially successive portions, i.e. a plug portion 42, an end flange 44 and a connector portion 46.
Plug portion 42 is precisely matched to make an interference fit into eit6cr of the open 5 ends of a ligbt tube segment 14 and thus has an external profile complementary to the internal profile of tube segments 14. The interior of the insert is provided with a peripheral shallow shoulder a9a at the transition between plug portion 42 and flange portion 44. and with a longitudinally extending convex rib 29b at the top interior of plug portion 42. These features are for locating and keying electrical cable ribbon connectors 10 as and if required.
End flange 44 is a lateral enlargement about the whole of plug portion 42 and has an external profi)c which closely matches that of cash tube segment 14. It may thus also be snapped onto a base strip 30 if needed at an intermediate position on tha base strip. i Cwnnector portion 46 is a generally tubular coaxial extension from flange 44 having two additional features at its outer axial end : an external flange .47 and a peripherally extending frustoconical enlargement 48 of the internal bone 4.5, Tbis enlargement is to provide an O-ring seat, as will be further explained. The flange 47 locates a locking ring 60.
An assembled tube segment 14 for installation would be fitted with at least an array of light emitting diodes 8 mounted on a suitable cable ribbon support strip 9.
Typically, this strip would be mouated in a lower pair of grooves 19b. Jf desired for 2S particular effects, a suitable diffuser strip may be mounted in another of the groove pairs, or a refractor strip may be mounted in a still further pair, typical)y between the light emitting diodes and the diffuser strip relative to the curved front of the tube. Once these arc in place. they can be retained by fitting inserts 40 to either or both ends of the tube and fixing them in place with a suitable adhesive or contact cement at the interface r between plug portion d2 at the internal surface of the tube. Other fixing and closure arrangements are of course possible.
b i 24.Jan. 2000 16:1S FREEN;''~~S ME'~B 4. fil 3 92881667 No.5015 P. 21 gyp oo~Ob759 PCTlAU98/00603 The orientation of the plane of strip 9 may be varied in other embodiments.
For example, this plane may be normal to surface 5 in Figure 2. Moreover, LEDs 8 may be on either or both surfaces of strip 9.
$ A flexible tube segment 16 is shown in situ in Figure I and dciailed in Figures 14 and 18_ Flexible tutee segment 16 is a thin wailed moulding of a translucent material similar to that of tube segments I4. The general structuc~t is of a corrugated or pleated configuration by virtue of which the segment is highly flexible and able to be compressed concertina - fashion, bent along its axis through 90° or xxzoze. The segment is provided with end portions 84 which include a tapered spigot 85 and a pair of diametrically ..
opposite arcuate lugs 86 which are set back from tapered end portion 85 so that a very shallow reversely-facing annular shoulder 88 at the inner end of spigot portion $5 def~nes an O-ring seat 89 between it and lugs 86.
1S A further component for effecting coupling of the flexible tubular segments 16 to tlae xi.gid tube segments 14 is integrally moulded locking ring 60 (Figures 1 S to 17). This essentially consists of a bayonet socket ring 62 and a snap fit half ring 64 with an undercut 65. The. outer surface of the ring has integral grip..enhancement ribs 63.
Bayonet Socket ring 62 has diametrically opposite arcuate recesses 66 that are matched to 24 receive lugs 86 of flexible tube segments I6. The snap fit half ring 64 is slightly larger tkta.zx sezzti-circular, subtending at its outer rim about 250° and extending between defotznable wings b7a,b7b.
With reference nvw to Figure 18, which depicts in cross-section an assembly of a ZS flexible tube segment 16 with tube segments 14, the locking ring 60 is applied to the body of insert 40 behind Mange 47 : the wings 67a,67b deform apart so that the locking ring snaps about the body of the insert and is then retained by engagez~o~ent of flange 47 behind undercut 65. The end formation 84 of a flexible tube segment 16, with the O-ring 90 in seat 89, is thezt intz~oduced into the locking zing by passing Iugs 86 through recesses .r 30 66. On twisting of either component, the O-ring 90 held in seat 89 is clamped against ~rustoconical end surface 4$, thereby clamping all of the compon~nis together to form the Y

%4.~a~. ?OGG~ v ',~ =EEEH~L'~S ME~9 4. 61 3 92661567 No.5G15 F. ??
w0 99/06759 pCT/AI198J00602 assembly shown in Figure I8. The joint is preferably liquid tight and/or gas tight, especially if the system is intended for outdoor installation.
Instead of coupling a tube segrrzcnt 14 to another tube segment 16, the former may be terzninated_ by means of end plug 50 (Figure 19 to Z 1 ). End plug 50 has an end formative 51 similar tv end portion 84 of flexible tube segment 16, including a spigot portion 55, shoulder 58 and O-ring seat 59. However, in this case, the interior is closed by a tzazf.sverse membrane 52 fl.usla with tlxe spigot end of the plug, and the component is completed by an external flange 54. Assembly to an end insert 40 using a locking ring 60, and clamping an O-ring 90, is similar to that described above for the flexible tube segment and is depicted in Figure x9.
End inserts 40 can also be employed to couple a pair of tube segments to the respective ends of a tubular elbow component 220 (Figures 4, 22) dcfzning a seicated angle bend between the two segments. Thic component may be rigid or flexible.
and may conveniently also be formed in the aforementioned liquid silicone rubber (LSR).
An alternative to end plug 50 is depicted in Figure 23, and coxtsists of a LSR
end cap 250 that fits onto end insert 40 and may include a port 252 for a cable 254 or other accessory. This allows an effective watertight seal around the cable. .
An alternative coupling arrangement is shown in Figures 24 and 25. Here, the tube segments 14 are closed by polycarbonate end caps 200 with ports 201 for conductor pins 202. These pins 202 are held in a liquid silicone rubber coupler 204 shaped, like conzzector 100, to the profile of the tube segments. Coupler 204 has central bosses 206 that retain the conductor pins 202 and project into and scat ports 201.
Coupler 204 embraces and grasps the respective end caps 200.
The illustrated embodiments - with the enclosed tubes 14, 16, separate mounting r rails 30 and various forms Qi: coupling - provide a strip lighting system in which the LED's are protected in an environment which is able to be sealed agaizzst moisture incursion, but is easily installed and dismantled. The installation may thus be v.

24.Jao~ 2000 '~8~17 FREEraILLS MELB 4. 61 3 92881667 No~5015 ~. 23 wo omos~sa prrmu9s~oosoa substantially permanent or only temporary. Tubes may be readily dctachcd individually for service of the electrical componentary. eg replacenaextt of failed diodes.
The component bodies - tube segments 14,16, mounting rails 30, external connectors 11D, end inserts 40, locking ring 60, and end plugs 50 - may be provided in a single uni.forr.~. colour, or in any other colour configuration. By forming all of tlae components in tz-anslucent optically diffusive material, advaro.tageous continuity of the scrip lighting can be aehievsd. Variations of intensity are easily obtained with choice of material and internal LED conf guxation or control. In zn alternative arrangement, the tube segments 14 and the mounting rails 30 may be extruded in quite diffbrent coloured y m.atezials. 1n a still further variation, illustrated in Figure 26, the tube segments 14 rnay be separable into base 14a and cap 14b portions of different colours and/or materials.
br

Claims

1 A strip lighting device which includes:
an elongate housing that is at least partially translucent;
a multiplicity of light sources arranged at intervals within said housing; and means to diffuse, disperse or scatter light from said light sources whereby on activation of the light sources, a visible optical effect is produced when the housing is viewed from the outside.

2 A strip lighting device according to claim 1 wherein said housing glows so as to form a strip or line of light.

3 A strip lighting device to claim 1 or 2 wherein the housing includes multiple scattering elements so that said optical effect includes a sparkling effect.

4. A strip lighting device according to claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein said light sources are substantially not visible to the eye when not activated and viewed from outside said housing, and substantially not distinguishable when activated and viewed from outside said housing.
A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein said means to diffuse, disperse or scatter light includes a body portion of said housing.
6 A strip lighting device according to any preceding claim wherein said means to diffuse light disperse or scatter includes or further includes light diffuser means in said passageway.
7 A strip lighting device according to any preceding claim wherein said light sources are semi-conductor devices such as light emitting diode (LED) devices.
8 A strip lighting device according to any preceding claim wherein an outer or front face of the elongate housing is defined by a transversely domed or convex segment.
9 A strip lighting device according to any one or claims 1 to 8 wherein said housing is solid, being moulded about said light sources or having one or more cavities to receive said light sources.
A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein said housing is hollow and defines a passageway extending longitudinally of the housing, and said light sources are disposed in said passageway.
11 A strip lighting device according to any preceding claim wherein said elongate housing is a plastics extrusion of substantially uniform cross-section.
12 A strip lighting device according to claim 10 or 11 when appended directly or indirectly to claim 7 wherein said semiconductor or LED devices are arranged on a printed circuit board strip extending along and mounted within said passageway.
13 A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 further including means to mount the housing to a surface so that it extends along and adjacent the surface.
14 A strip lighting device according to claim 13 wherein said mounting means includes a mounting rail adapted to be fastened to said surface, and cooperable means on the rail and on said housing for effecting a snap or sliding engagement of the housing to the rail so that the housing is generally parallel to the rail.
A strip lighting device according to claim 14 wherein on said engagement, the housing overlies said rail.
16 A strip lighting device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein said snap or sliding engagement is between longitudinally extending rib means on one of the components, and complementary groove means on the other.
17 A strip lighting device according to claim 16 further including opposed longitudinal undercut formations in said groove means.
18 A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further including a face that provides a substantially planar rear engagement when the device is fastened to a surface.
19 A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further including means to couple the housing to other similar housings or to other components.
20 A strip lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, further including connector means to physically couple said elongate housing to a similar housing of a further device whereby the housings may be relatively longitudinally displaced in situ by thermal expansion or building subsidence, without being uncoupled.
21 A strip lighting device according to claim 20 wherein said connector means includes an integral moulded body which defines a pair of generally interiors portions slidably engageable with the respective said housings so that their interiors arc in communication within the connector, wherein said integral moulded body further defines a relatively thin wall portion between said generally tubular portions, said thin wall portion being resiliently deformable to compensate for relative variations in the relative positions of the generally tubular portions.
22 A strip lighting device according to claim 21 wherein said integral moulded body is in a material adopted to engage and sealingly grasp the respective said housings.
23 A strip lighting device according to claim 12 further including means to electrically and physically interconnect said circuit board strip to a similar circuit board strip of a similar device to which said device is coupled.
4 A strip lighting device according to claim 23 wherein said means to electrically and physically interconnect includes:-an integral moulded body with features which define spaced generally parallel channels or passages open at their outer ends to receive respective end fingers of the respective said strips, whereby the strips are aligned and generally coplanar;
electrically conductive contact means in said channels or passages for engaging complementary contacts on said strips when said fingers are received in the channels or fingers;
means carried by said body electrically connecting each of the contact means for one strip carried by said body with one or more of the contact means for the other strip; and resiliently deformable means on said body for latching said body to each of said strips.
25 A strip lighting device according to claim 24 wherein said spaced channels are arranged along opposite sides of the integral moulded body, and open laterally from the body.
26 A strip lighting device according to claim 24 or 25 wherein said resiliently deformable latch means is provided as a pair of deflectable tongue portions with lugs. which tongue portions are defined by slits in a web portion of the integral moulded body.
27 A structure having one or more features highlighted or decorated by one or more strip lighting devices according to any one or claims 1 to 26.
28 A structure according to claim 27 wherein said highlighted or decorated feature of the structure is a corner or edge.
29 A structure according to claim 28 wherein said edge is an edge of a roof. a window or a door, or a corner between respective wall or roof sections.
30 A structure according to claim 28 wherein said edge is a gable or ridge line of a building roof.

31 A structure according to any one or claims 28 to 30 wherein said structure is a commercial building and the color of the or each housing is chosen to match or complement the colour(s) of identification or trade mark signage displayed on the building.
32 A housing assembly for strip lighting, including:
an elongate housing at least partly of a translucent material:
a mounting rail; and co-operable longitudinally extending formations on said rail and on said housing for effecting a snap or sliding engagement of the housing to the rail so that the housing is generally parallel to the rail.
33 A housing assembly according to claim 32 wherein, on said engagement, the housing overlies said rail.
34 A strip lighting device according to claim 32 or 33, wherein said snap or sliding engagement is between longitudinally extending rib means on one of the components, and complementary groove means on the other.
35 A housing assembly according to claim 34 further including opposed longitudinal undercut formations in said groove means.
36 A housing assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 33 further including a face that provides a substantially planar rear engagement when the device is fastened to a surface.
37 A housing assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 36 further including a means to couple the housing to other similar housings or to other components.

38 A strip lighting system, including:-a plurality of elongate housings at least partly of a translucent material;
means in each of said housings to locate support means for a multiplicity of light sources at intervals in said housing and activatable so that the housing, when viewed from the outside through the translucent material. appears to glow and so to form a strip or line of light.
39 A connector for physically coupling a pair of tubular components, including an integral moulded body which defines a pair of generally tubular portions slidably engageable with the respective said tubular components so that their interiors are in communication within the connector:
wherein said integral moulded body further defines a relatively thin wall portion between said generally tubular portions, said thin wall portion being resiliently deformable to compensate for relative variations in the relative positions of the generally tubular portions.
40 A connector according to claim 39, wherein said integral moulded body is in a material adapted to engage and sealingly grasp the respective said components.
41 A connector for electrically and physically coupling a pair or more of support strips having electrically conductive surface elements including:
an integral moulded body with features which define spaced generally parallel channels on passages open at their outer ends to receive respective end fingers of the respective said strips, whereby the strips are aligned and generally co-planar.
electrically conductive contact means in said channels or passages for engaging complementary contacts on said strips when said fingers are received in the channels or fingers;
means carried by said body electrically connecting each of the contact means for one strip carried by said body with one or more of the contact means for the other strip; and resiliently deformable means on said body for latching said body to each of said strips.
42 A connector according to claim 41 wherein said spaced channels are arranged along opposite sides of the integral moulded body. and open laterally from the body.
a3 A connector according to claim 41 or 42 wherein said resiliently deformable latch means is provided as a pair of deflectable tongue portions with lugs. which tongue portions are defined by slits in a web portion of the integral moulded body.